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James Bratten

he/him

4.8

(18)

Timezone

America/chicago

Language

English

Identity

DMs Guild Writer
Streamer
Artist
Game Designer

About James Bratten

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!

At a glance

2 years on StartPlaying

46 games hosted

Highly rated for: Creativity, Knows the Rules, Teacher

Featured Prompts

My favorite books are

The works of Tolkien, the Mithgar series by Dennis L. McKiernan (specifically Dragondoom!), and the Sandman Slim series by Richard Kadrey.

My favorite shows/movies are

B-movies! Horror and sci-fi, specifically, but I also love a good goofy fantasy anime (I Parry Everything, anyone?).

When I'm not running games I'm...

Being a dad, usually! I also work as a graphic designer and illustrator, so if I'm not running games, I'm typically making something!

How James Bratten runs games

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.

Featured Prompts

I deal with rules issues by...

I'll make a ruling in the moment, and we'll clarify and learn from any mistakes after the session. Gotta keep things moving, there's a story to tell!

My games focus on...

The players! It's really their story, I'm just happy to help tell it.

Rules are...

Suggestions. The only one that really matters is Rule 0.

James Bratten's games