James Bratten (he/him)
4.8
(17)
1 year on StartPlaying
39 games hosted
Highly rated for: Creativity, Knows the Rules, Teacher
About me
What's up, Nerds? It's me, The One-Shot Wizard, Tabletop Roleplaying James (TTRPJ)! With over 25 years of Game Mastering under my belt, I've delved into the depths of every published edition of D&D since 3rd edition. My games are rooted in a meticulously crafted homebrew world, a diverse tapestry almost two decades in the making. This "kitchen-sink" setting ensures flexibility, enabling players and fellow DMs to integrate characters, stories, and elements from any realm or setting, ensuring a unique experience each session. My most recent endeavor? A year-long, Westmarches-style series of one-shots designed to take a party to level 20 over the course of 2025. Dive into a universe where every narrative, old or new, can find its niche. Join me for an adventure like no other!
GM Style
Delving deep into a world of my creation, my GM style embraces a harmonious blend of roleplay and combat. With a penchant for lively character voices and quirky mannerisms, I strive to offer my players an immersive experience that's both memorable and fun. While I lean towards indulgence and leniency, allowing rule-bending for innovative play, be warned: every action has consequences, and what you can exploit, your adversaries can too. Drawing inspiration from a rich tapestry of genres – from spine-chilling horror and profound existentialism to high-magic fantasy, magi-punk, and traditional realms – my campaigns promise variety in every session. While a sense of light-hearted humor is a staple in my tales, I gracefully pivot to heavier themes should my players steer the narrative that way. In essence, my games are a dance of mirth and might, where every player's choice shapes the story's course.
Games played
Game platforms used
Game Master Reviews (17)
Proficiencies
Players say this GM is great at:
Creativity
Knows the Rules
Teacher
Evie
Played 6 sessions
James is an actual wizard at the table. His creativity and humor always leaves me wishing the next session was sooner. No matter what the scenario he will help you solve and do things your way and create fair rules to make it work. He makes his game and his players more chill+inclusive with his good guy aura as well. Really appreciate this as a girl.
Jose Miguel Quijote
Played 3 sessions
I had a fantastic time with James as our DM! Their storytelling is immersive, and the high-risk combat keeps you on your toes. Plus, their comedic tone adds a twist to every session. I loved the whimsical campaign. they struck the perfect balance between fun and excitement. He accommodates the rules while ensuring everyone enjoys the game.
MiguelTheWarlock
Played 2 sessions
The experience with James was a fun one, he is the perfect example of a "Yes, and..." type of DM that always works with the players to put their ideas into the game, he knows how to use Alchemy VTT perfectly with beautiful maps, images and handouts, I would recomend him to any begginer who wants to try the game as he is very inclusive, fun and chill.
Erik
Played 1 session
James is a patient and excellent teacher. He was able to steer me through the new technology that is online gaming, character creation and game rules. His ability to explain the rules was top notch and his initial scenario allowed my character to make choices without being forced into a specific path. Character interaction with NPCs was great, the uncertainty created over the motives was fun and the combat was very smooth. His style is easy going and patient. This was my first with Shadowdark and I'm itching to join his multiple session or campaign in the future. If you want to start this game, let James teach you Shadowdark. Folks can get nervous about not understanding the games or having too many decisions. He has the right mix! If you are nervous about learning, he is the right person for you! Very glad I signed up and survived - which is always a good game - LOL!
Jesse Scott
Played 1 session
James was awesome - inclusive, relaxed, and supportive. Had a great time!
Shard
Played 1 session
Awesome GM, kept up with us every step of the way and allowed everyone to shine. We tried some crazy things and he let the rule of cool preside. Sign up!
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