Monster Manual Celebration

Hitchhiker's Guide to the Multiverse | 🏳️‍🌈♾️

Shadowrun: Seattle 2050 (JST)

Age of Ashes (Level 1-20) Join from Book 2 - Explore the Wilds!

Witness the ravages of war, and soothe a broken world ~START LL6

Wastelanders | GURPS Fallout | System Tutorial Included!

Cosmic Century Knights Playtest

The First Descent-Marvel Multiverse Horrors of the Unknown

Age of Pirates | GURPS Pirates | System Tutorial Included!

Root out the corruption: Warhammer Fantasy || Beginner Friendly

SLUGBLASTER: this is your brain on portals.

The Creed | GURPS Assassins | System Tutorial Included!

Manhunt | GURPS Soldiers | System Tutorial Included!

Trolltendsaga: Norse Fantasy (anti-racist)

Wild Beyond the Witchlight

Hymn of the Dreamer | Homebrew Horror/Mystery Scenario

Beyond the Gate of Eternity | Call of Cthulhu

Learn to Play Dungeons & Dragons

Cairo:Otherscape Kickstarter Launch Event

:OTHERSCAPE // Cyber-punk Meets Mythological || [Learn to Play]

Urban Shadows: Blood Rain Skies || [Learn2Play] [One-shot]

StartPlaying is the largest marketplace online connecting TTRPG players with professional Game Masters. You can play any game system on any virtual tabletop here on StartPlaying!

Joining a game on StartPlaying is super easy! Head over to our Games Search page and find a game that works for you! You filter games by day, time, game system, and even by genre! You can also search our Game Masters for a GM for you and your friends - even one near you in Chicago. We even handle the payments for you, through our payment processor, Stripe!

Game Masters on StartPlaying set their own price. The cost for your game will vary depending on the Game Master and the game they are running. We also have a number of Game Masters who run free games!

The term "professional game master" refers to people that run tabletop game events in a formal or organized setting. Professional game masters come in many forms. There are Game Masters that run private sessions. There are some that run public events at conventions or local game stores. We are proud to offer a platform that makes this emerging profession more accessible to a growing community of professional Game Masters and their players.

No group in Chicago? No problem! You can join a game that has an open seat and meet a whole new group to play your favorite TTRPG.

What if I don’t have a group to play with?

If you have a group ready to go, you and your friends can check out our Game Master search and find the perfect Game Master for you! You and your group can choose to pay separately or have one person pay for the entire group.

What if I have a group of friends and want to hire a Dungeon Master?

Every Game Master uses a different set of tools to run their games. Some may want players to use webcams on Zoom with Roll20 as the Virtual Tabletop (VTT). Others just use voice on Discord and Theater of the Mind. Our Game Masters have the flexibility to use whatever Virtual Tabletop they want. Every game listing will have the information on the technology and software needed for playing that specific game.

What kind of technology do I need to play?

This page shows you all the Game Masters who live in Chicago. You can reach out to any of these Game Masters if you want to run an in person game with them.

Can I find a D&D game in Chicago, Illinois?

Currently, all of our games on StartPlaying are online. You can reach out to any of these Chicago Game Masters if you have any interest in coordinating an in person game!

Are these just online D&D games or can I play in person with a Chicago Game Master?

D&D Beyond

Discord

Foundry VTT

Owlbear Rodeo

Role

Roll20

Tale Spire

Zoom

Dungeons & Dragons 5e

Pathfinder 2e

Dungeon Crawl Classics

Call of Cthulhu

Shadowrun

Powered by the Apocalypse RPG

Lancer

GURPS

Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay

Marvel Multiverse Role-Playing Game

Slugblaster

Playtest

:Otherscape

Urban Shadows 2e

StartPlaying is the largest platform for finding D&D and other games run by professional Dungeon Masters. Browse Chicago Dungeon Masters and find a game!

Chicago

Hi there! I’ve been playing D&D and other RPG’s for about 12 years now, and ever since I’ve been able to hone my storytelling skills through these wonderful games! I have my BFA in Directing and am a National Theatre Institute alumnus and I use my training and experience in theatre to propel the games that I run and the stories I tell. I’ve had the pleasure of running a myriad of games for friends and a weekly paid one-shot series at a local game store I worked for. I cherish the chance to be a part of the stories that amazing players would help me to tell. 

Mitch 

For the past 10 years, I've been DMing 5th edition D&D, running games for a steady group of friends the entire time, quickly finding I had a knack for it, especially when I took Writing courses in College! Inspired to play by the Adventure Zone, I came upon my own when I took the role more seriously after watching Critical Role. I enjoy expanding and taking advantage of lore, and rewriting existing adventures to be more interesting to the players, to the point that the earliest Campaign in my world's timeline is an expansion on Lost Mines of Phandelver!

Recently, I’ve had issues finding work, since I hit a rough patch during the virus. However, I was able to make a bit of money during the virus as a DM for hire, so I've decided to come to startplaying to make everything official!

CipherWrites

Hi, I'm Nate. There's nothing in the world I enjoy more than helping adventurers create stories that will last a lifetime. While also giving everyone in the group their moment in the spotlight. All I ask is that we give each other the same level of courtesy and respect for though we may be strangers, at my table we are never enemies.

Our journey begins now so let's StartPlaying!




Nate

I'm here to facilitate your excellent tabletop gaming experience. Years of running Dungeons and Dragons 5e games focused on player characters and their interface with the fantastic world they are exploring has equipped me with the tools to bring the same to a table (virtual or otherwise) for you.

This is the face of the forever DM. Having convinced many of my closest friends and family to let me run their first D&D game, I have a wealth of experience teaching players of all types and experience levels. 

Becoming the best DM I can be is always the goal at the table. I enjoy playing with voice, description, and ambiance but always with the focus of making the game both entertaining and approachable for the players. Different personality types and needs all have a place at my table.

Gaming is how I connect with people. I have fond memories of my childhood hosting close friends in the basement playing RPGs, videogames, and wargames. I am that guy that shows up with a duffel full of games and gets the most out of everyone having fun playing the game they want to play. 

Telling stories is what we're doing here... Let's start the next one!


Glyph

Love D&D, but don't know how to find people you're comfortable playing with? You're not alone.  I remember that feeling clearly and I always keep it in mind when I'm creating games.  I write games with a fun and lighthearted feel that are well suited to players of any experience level and play style that are not only exciting but also very inclusive to everyone. With an emphasis on humor and creativity I deliver completely homebrewed adventures that encourage every player to participate and really have a great time.

I started my journey as a DM the way most adventurers do, in a tavern. There I became one of the Admins for a local series of drop in D&D games that ran weekly. Quickly what started with one table in the corner turned into filling most of the bar and required more DMs and more adventures causing me to write a new and interesting one-shot for nearly every session. Since then I have also ran several fully homebrewed 5e campaigns with some really talented players.  These worlds have ranged from warring countries with expansive underground civilizations to a thousand year future where the Feywild has collapsed and fused with our world bringing about a new world of adventurers. 

While my true love is D&D I have also dabbled in Call of Cthulhu, Vampire: the Masquerade, Masks, and a couple other 2d6 systems.


Danny

Hello! I'm Noir, an award-winning Game Master (GM) with experience working for top names like Roll20, Kobold Press, Wizards of the Coast, and Chaosium. I’ve also had the privilege of playing in several live-stream games, bringing a wealth of knowledge and passion to each session.

As your GM, my mission is simple: to make you feel like the hero of your own story. After all, isn’t that what tabletop RPGs are all about? In a world where we all face challenges every day, gaming should be your chance to step into the extraordinary and embrace the fun, the exciting, and the epic.

But remember, we create this experience together! To make the most of it, you'll need to come ready to collaborate, dive into the playful spirit of the game, and always respect each other's boundaries.

Ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure? Let’s make it happen!Hello! I'm Noir, an award-winning Game Master (GM) with experience working for top names like Roll20, Kobold Press, Wizards of the Coast, and Chaosium. I’ve also had the privilege of playing in several live-stream games, bringing a wealth of knowledge and passion to each session.

As your GM, my mission is simple: to make you feel like the hero of your own story. After all, isn’t that what tabletop RPGs are all about? In a world where we all face challenges every day, gaming should be your chance to step into the extraordinary and embrace the fun, the exciting, and the epic.

But remember, we create this experience together! To make the most of it, you'll need to come ready to collaborate, dive into the playful spirit of the game, and always respect each other's boundaries.

Ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure? Let’s make it happen!

Noir Enigma

A handful of years ago, I tried my hand playing D&D in a group that was not a good fit for me. I made the mistake of thinking that all tables were alike and soon figured out thanks to other D&D media that communal storytelling can be inclusive, hit on the big things in life, and still take care of the people at the table. As a theatrical professional, I was interested in exploring other options for story creation and quickly made the leap from player to dungeon master for an all-women's campaign set at a summer camp. After a year of running that campaign, I started to make more one shots for a wider array of people, ran smaller things, and even began an additional home game set in a grittier cyberpunk future. I love facilitating worlds and getting to be a part of people's self-exploration and their character's journeys. 

While I love D&D 5e, I also have an affinity for indie TTRPGs and would love to run some Punk's Been Dead Since '79, Wanderhome, or some other gloriously specific niche game for you! Lastly, I have access to and knowledge of a number of TTRPGs that do not require a GM, but I would be happy to serve as a fellow player and functioning guide through those types of games for you and your pals! 

I've also made simple custom TTRPGs or adventures within systems for special events such as bachelorette parties, birthdays, and more. Feel free to reach out! 

There's a distinct lack of Femme DMs in the world and I am so thrilled to be one of them. 

It is my hope to create a welcoming, inclusive environment to tell stories together.

If you're interested in announcements specific to my DMing, feel free to follow me on socials @ClaireAfterAll or  join my Discord: https://discord.gg/WCRtFWN6kp 

My rate for private games is typically $75/session hour for games of 3-7 people, $100/session hour for games with 2 players, and $150/session hour for solo games! 

Claire After All

Greetings adventurers,

Embark on a journey with a seasoned Game Master, immersed in the world of tabletop role-playing games since the early 1980s. From classics like Dungeons & Dragons, Champions, and Villains & Vigilantes to the thrilling newer realms of Dungeon Crawl Classics and ShadowDark RPG, I bring a wealth of experience to your gaming table.

My passion lies in creating a dynamic blend of role-playing, combat, and exploration, where rules have their place, but the reign of the "rule of cool" prevails. Whether you're delving into the treacherous dungeons of Dungeon Crawl Classics or navigating the realms of ShadowDark, the ultimate quest remains the same: ensuring that every player enjoys an unforgettable experience.

Seeking a tailor-made adventure for your group? Longing for a GM who crafts campaigns to suit your preferences and those of your companions? Look no further. Contact me, and together, we'll weave a narrative that brings your game, be it a classic or a thrilling new adventure, to life.

May the dice roll in your favor,

Magic Mike

(Personal site at http://www.vincentmarocco.com)

Dungeons and Dragons has been a lifelong hobby for me. I discovered the game when I was a child, and ran my first campaign when I was in middle school. I haven’t stopped playing since. In the 22 years that passed since I started, I’ve run thousands of games as a Dungeon Master. In high school I founded my school’s D&D club, and I started learning to draw so that I could portray the visions that came to me for my games. Later on, I fell in love with virtual tabletops, racking up over 5000 hours in Roll20 and over 1,500 hours in Foundry. And for the last two years, I’ve turned my hobby into a side hustle, becoming a pro dungeon master.

I’ve carved out a place for myself as a small batch dungeon master. Instead of running ten games a week and priding myself on quantity, I run a handful of games and go for quality. Many dungeon masters like running published modules, but I always prefer running original material. For me being a dungeon master encompasses not only running the game, but designing it as well. My aim is to immerse the player in a Dungeons and Dragons experience that transcends the ordinary. Though I’ve spent a lifetime playing RPGs, D&D remains my favorite ttrpg and the one I know best. 

I also structure my games to accommodate the shifting schedules of adult life. I design my games around the attendance I’ve got, and you won’t be committing to anything you need to feel guilty about missing. I practice an open door policy. I’m happy to accommodate both the new and the experienced player, too. I tailor my games for the group I’ve got, and I love having fresh perspectives in the mix. I gladly walk new players through how to use the interface or understand the rules. I strive to be flexible, lenient, and fair.

You can see that quite a few of the reviews on my profile are from clients who have played a lot of games with me. That is because I love to make them smile. I focus on providing the best experience for them. I tailor the scenarios to their whims. I get to know them, and encourage them to be themselves. I am always working to figure out to shock, thrill, intrigue, delight, perplex, and captivate them.

If you’re looking for the classic dungeon crawling, monster slaying D&D experience, that’s what I’ve devoted myself to perfecting.

Vincent Marocco

I've been in love with D&D ever since childhood, and nothing brings me more pleasure than sharing that love with others! I am a GM, player, and designer with years of GMing at conventions, live charity events, and private home games under my belt; so put me to work for you and your friends! Whether you are veteran players looking for a change of pace, or entirely new to the hobby, this is the table for you.  Together we will weave exciting stories, and delve into fantastic worlds of our creation.

I am queer, and my tables are an inclusive environment for queer individuals, POC, and disabled individuals. Safety tools are always available to ensure that every player has a comfortable experience by empowering them to stop the game, skip content, or tweak the tone. And I am always looking to improve my knowledge of inclusive practices.

Brenden Lewis

Hello and welcome to my profile page. 

I dabbled with 2e D&D in elementary school. I played 3e D&D more regularly in high school as well as White Wolf's World of Darkness games.  In college it was Pathfinder and now D&D 5e.  

I enjoy a tactical game with many visual aids. I'll try my hand at almost any voice. I'm willing to let the story go wherever YOU take it. 
If it goes off the rails then it was probably never meant to be there in the first place.

Most importantly though I'm here to have a good time with you and help you get the most out of this wonderful hobby.  

I'm also the DM/GM for several campaigns on Rollin' J's RPG Podcast. https://linktr.ee/rollinjs


ChairfaceCD

Ready to play? I am a super flexible DM ready to host and create all different kinds of DND games. At first I just DM'd for friends and at my local game store. The passion has grown however and I am ready to take on multitudes of games for YOU! The highest priorities are FUN, and hopefully interaction between the characters that we can use to tell a good story. We will use Fantasy Grounds Unity, I have the Ultimate GM pass on there so it will be completely free for you to use this program.  I can create worlds from scratch, or can easily pivot and create things based off an idea or world the players would be interested in. Private message me and we can talk more details.

DM Lance

Hello! My name is Thom, I've been professionally GMing online since the tail end of 2018. I started hosting paid sessions as a way to feed my hobby and also provide the best content I could to my players. This included getting art commissioned for commercial use, music licenses and other third party materials. My players told me that I should run this or that and so I did. 

In regards to systems-- D&D: 5e I am very knowledge and have ran extensively. 4e I've ran a few campaigns and wouldn't call myself an expert, 3.X/Pathfinder was the system I skipped to be blunt. I've mostly played systems that use it like Mutants and Masterminds. AD&D, B/X and 1e I'm rather fluent in as well. 

Dungeons and Dragons aside, I have a love and appreciate for quite a few game systems. Most popular titles I am familiar with and could run. If I had to say a particular niche I excel in, I would say OSR games (DCC and Mork Borg are two favs!). I am a huge fan of that scene, am a content creator and love supporting other indie/osr/small press devs. Of course, I can't go without mentioning the PbtA system and the games that come with it.

Thom

I've been running games of 5th Edition D&D for over seven years, and I've been collecting payments as a professional Game Master for five of those years. When you play with me, you will be joining a cultivated play environment of strangers turned friends. As much as I am a Game Master, I am a coordinator of schedules and facilitator of new connections.  Join my games, and we can make stories and friends, together!

Jack Marder

Garraque

Hello all, I'm Alebrelle!

I am a queer trans autistic leftist who has been doing tabletop of various flavors and intensities for just around 30 years now.  My *FIRST* first game was (very badly) running the AD&D Box Set for my sister in 7th grade.  My first campaign as a player was Shadowrun 2e in 10th grade.  TTRPGs has been one of my longest standing special interests, and so I have a very deep and broad experience, LARPs, horror, fantasy, wire-fu, comedy, romance, cyberpunk, I've seen a bit of it, or a lot.

I love making, crafting, and if I were a trust fund baby I'd probably play tabletop games nearly continuously.  There's enough out there to feed the habit.  I have some small voice over experience, I have run games for long time friends, and at conventions tables up to 8 folks at once.

I am a content creator on various platforms, and if you want to record our sessions and post them somewhere ask me about it.  If you want *me* to produce, record, and edit them; we can do that too.  Just ask, I'm sure we can work something out!

My games list below is *far* from extensive, I kept it limited to meeting at least one of these criteria:
1) Played more than one session of,
2) GM'd a campaign, or
3) Read the sourcebook cover-to-cover in prep for GMing a game that never came together.

While I have my favorite stuff to run (most anything Powered by the Apocalypse, thank you Vincent & Meguey Baker), I think I have a grasp on most any genre enough to run a game.  If you have something niche or particular please reach out directly and we can talk about it and see if I can give you the game noone else has.  Which, to be honest, tends to be my goal even with games you've played for years: Give you the best game possible.

Alebrelle

I am a professional DM who's job is to help you escape from daily life with a great time playing the best game in the world, D&D. 

Bring your characters and backstories, tragic, happy or silly and we will weave a narrative together with these amazing tales (and maybe a few others) that make it more than just kill monsters and get rich, unless that's your character's thing.



Marcelo

Hey there! I'm Avelaitixa (but you can call me Avel). I've been weaving stories and leading adventures for over 5 years alongside my husband Hawk, crafting immersive, exciting, and player-driven campaigns that make every session a unique experience. Whether you're diving deep into intricate political intrigue, sailing the high seas in search of lost treasures, or battling dark forces in forgotten dungeons, I love creating worlds that pull you in and let your imagination run wild.

I focus on character development, creative problem-solving, and epic narrative arcs. I pride myself on blending humor, high stakes, and emotional moments into my games, ensuring everyone feels like a hero in the making. New to D&D or a seasoned veteran? I'm here to make sure you have an amazing time, no matter your experience level.

When I’m not DMing, you can find me streaming, running Adrenaline Junkies events with my crew, and occasionally diving into the chaos of Dead by Daylight and other video games. Let’s roll some dice and create unforgettable stories together!

Avelaitixa

Hey there! I'm Amelia Plunk. I am a player-focused game master with three years of professional experience (even though I just joined SPG) who simply loves collaborative storytelling! I strive to make my table a safe and comfortable space for all, and specialize in introducing new players to D&D 5E.

Outside of my D&D life, I'm a former HS science instructor and a forever teacher. I love to figure out what supports my players need in order for them to feel as comfortable and engaged as possible. I love teaching newbies how to play, and am quick to tell anyone who is nervous, "Don't worry about the rules, that's my job. Just tell me about the story you want to tell and I'll help you tell it." Players quickly relax at my table when they realize just how low the social stakes are — I try to make a fool of myself early and often to demonstrate that it's safe to be a fool at my table. 

Plunk!

I have been an avid TTRPG player since 2000 when the hobby was introduced to me. D&D was my first & the system I have the most experience with. I've played many different systems over the years, mostly d20 based. 

I like to make the story feel unique & personal by using what players provide me with (backstory, role play, decription of their character) to craft an experience that is not soon to be forgotten. I give attention to all players at the table & lean in to what each person likes about the game/their character as much as possible. Last, I like to see the players at the table having fun. Nothing is more rewarding as a DM than when players are eager to attend the next session becasue they are having so much fun at the table. *sheds a single tear*

So, please have a seat at my table. Relax your mind & body as we set off on an amazing adventure together!

Nicholas Blaettler aka pimliOprentiss

Sean is a video creator, game designer, adventure author, actor, comedian, and professional game master who brings his passion for collaborative storytelling to a wide audience. His goal is to grow and diversify the tabletop gaming hobby by inspiring people to play for the first time, players to GM for the first time, and GMs to try new games for the first time! 

His games are story-driven, and always include three-dimensional characters complete with unique voices, powerful factions, dynamic conflicts, thrilling scenes of tension and suspense, and a dash of humor. 

Play a game with Sean if you want to unlock your inner storyteller and tell an unforgettable tale!

He is available to book for public, drop-in/drop-out campaigns, one-shots, private campaigns, and one-on-one "campaign consultations" for GMs both amateur and professional! Feel free to direct message him for more information.

Sean is an inclusive GM, and bigotry of any kind is not tolerated at his table. His games are LGBTQIA+ friendly, and open to players of all experience levels. 

Sean Foer

Hi, I'm Ernie! I've been a Game Master for over nine years, starting with Pathfinder 1E and exploring various systems and playstyles since then. I love picking up new games, especially the ones with easy rules that let players get creative. Right now, I’m really into running Dragonbane and Pirate Borg sessions.

When I'm not gaming, I enjoy exploring cities, attending meetups at local game stores, and playing board games. These activities fuel my creativity and passion for storytelling. I tailor my GMing style to suit my group's preferences, whether they're into combat-heavy scenarios or immersive role-playing. Personally, I favor role-playing and creative thinking, often engaging in improv with players to see what stories we can create together. People often describe me as easy-going and accommodating, focusing on inclusivity and giving everyone a moment to shine.

I usually run games during weekday evenings, CST time. If you're interested in joining a game, feel free to reach out through my Discord channel, Ernie's Game Room. I welcome people from all backgrounds. In a role-playing world, we have the freedom to be whoever we want to be, and I strive to create an environment where everyone can express themselves freely and creatively.

Join me for an adventure where your imagination is the limit!

Ernie

Hi there! I'm Spencer, he/him pronouns are great, thank you! I'm a long-time DM with roughly 15 years of experience running games all the way back from 3e and now in 5e! I'm a published author and have homebrew classes, subclasses, races, and spells available on the DM's Guild, and I have a BA in English and Classics. I love telling and sharing stories with people more than anything, and weaving plots to feature my players' characters at the center of it all!

- I have a lot of experience running both short- and long-term campaigns online, and over 2100 hours in Roll20. If you're looking to play your beloved original character in a game, I'm more than happy to build the world with them at the heart of the story.

- My DMing style is very much a mix of story and adrenaline-filled combat, with plenty of opportunity to roleplay your heart out, whether with your fellow players or NPCs. Expect (and brace yourself) for plenty of wobbly accents and laughter in the process!

- I love making homebrew, and I do so almost every day as a hobby! If you play in my games and want a custom race, subclass, set of spells, or more, please let me know and I'll make that for you in a heartbeat. 

- Video is a must for me! I need to be able to see everyone's faces to make sure I get the right body language cues and can keep the story engaging to all.

While fantasy is always my first love, I also love science fantasy and blending those genres, and enjoy horror and comedy and the potential they have to make some reeeeally memorable games. If you choose to play a game with me, expect me to build a world around the aesthetics you have in mind for your character and the kind of stories you're hoping to tell.

Spencer

Hello!! I have been a dungeon master for 5th edition for over a decade now, and I have also dabbled in other TTRPGs like Call of Cthulhu and Monster of the Week. 
My primary job is acting and voice acting, so I tend to bring theatrics to my campaigns: bold narratives of intrigue, action, humor, and tragedy. NPCs with personality, accents, and developed backstory. Unique magic items that can change the course of a character’s story. 

I am a published designer for 5th edition on DMs Guild, and I have experience writing in freelance with other TTRPG content. 

I am a passionate GM looking to bring my experience to more tables. The comfort of the players comes first, so I always like to start a campaign by setting boundaries and expectations for both myself and fellow players. My goal as a GM is to have fun and ensure that the players are having fun as well! That’s why we gather to play the game after all! 

Nikos Konstans

I have been GMing since I was 10 years old. I started with D&D, migrated to Dragonlance, and fell in love with Science Fiction.

Some of my Science Fiction influences are from books, movies and television shows like: Robotech, Battletech, Star Wars, Star Trek, Foundation Series (books), Dune Saga (books), Babylon 5, Starship Troopers, Killjoys, The Expanse just to name a few.

I love Sci-Fi Stories and Alternate History Stories, and a want to share my gaming experience with the players participating in my Games.

"Role Play has the power to create... to destroy... to change civilizations as we know them... "

I do not post hype or bogus reviews, and will always let my work stand for itself.

Contact me if you are looking for a GM and lets determine together if your project is a good fit.

Cauldron Bourne

I started DMing as a teen back in the 1990s (I was the one in my group of friends who always took the job so the game could run because no one else wanted it and I was the designated DM for many years before I ever got to be a player.)  Other things I've spent a significant portion of my life doing are being a teacher, author, and let's player, meaning I am creative and good with words, very comfortable speaking in front of others (and maybe more than a bit of a ham), and able to think on my feet and adapt to a dynamic situation, all skills that overlap with being a good DM.  I enjoy the challenge of striking the balance between making things up on the fly and holding the thread of a story for players to follow and build off of. 

Alison Gross

Greetings! As a Gamemaster, above all I want players to have fun and become friends. I developed most of my best friends through playing D&D. I first played the original Dungeons & Dragons when I was 11 years old and played and DM'd Advanced D&D all the way through the end of high school. About 6 years ago I started playing D&D 5e and DMing about 4 years ago. I encourage roleplaying, creativity, strategic thinking and collaboration. Player vs. Player aggression is not acceptable.

I'm a published author of two fantasy novels, and my second award-winning novel, A Greater Monster, is a psychedelic fairytale praised by Jeff VanderMeer. I'm also an artist with a gallery on Etsy and my own website DavidDavid.net, and I've been featured in multiple gallery shows. I have also been an actor and improviser, having spent many years performing on stage in Chicago, and my acting skills help bring NPCs to life in my games.

I'm also open to one-off games by request! My schedule is fairly open right now, and there's a good chance I can make myself available to run a session or multiple sessions at a time that works for you. Reach out and let's see what we can work out! 

David David Katzman

As a lifelong hobbyist, my enthusiasm for roleplaying games was born from unforgettable shenanigans shared with close friends around a table in some basement. That same love has spawned countless friendships and encouraged me to join and contribute to a number of great communities, including store-driven Adventurer's Leagues and Cons. I have even been fortunate enough to make a living producing accessories for tabletop games, so it's no exaggeration to say that my life revolves around roleplaying games.

I cut my teeth on D&D 3.x and had the rewarding experience of my first group of players being ready to explore countless other systems. Looking at the subtle beauty in new mechanics and the nuances that tie them into their settings and stories is a personal passion of mine, one that I love to share. Facilitating a new player learning a system, whether it's their first go at Dungeons & Dragons or their latest foray beyond, is one of my favorite opportunities.

I own a myriad of unique RPGs and have read most of them, but I am always eager to hear about new potential experiences and unique stories to be told. Sharing our stories and love of games is what makes tabletop roleplaying games so special.

I hope you'll allow me to share some of the things I love with you.

Travis D.

Hi, adventurers! I'm a Dungeon Master with 3 years of experience weaving fantastical tales and leading epic adventures in Dungeons & Dragons. I’m passionate about creating dynamic fantasy worlds where your choices and creativity shape the story.

While I love both fantasy and sci-fi, my background in history keeps me firmly rooted in crafting fantasy settings. I aim to make my worlds and stories flexible and responsive, ensuring the game grows organically with my players. For me, D&D is all about having fun—rules are there to guide us, but I’m always up for clever, creative ways to stretch them if it adds to the adventure (and doesn’t break the game).

A little about me outside of the game: I’m a married dad to three awesome boys and a dog parent to a blind, one-eyed pup. I hold degrees in writing and history, which have fueled my passion for storytelling. I’ve also taken improv classes and performed on stage, which helps me keep games lively and unpredictable.

In addition to crafting homebrewed worlds, I’m a homebrewer of beer, an avid reader, and a lover of cooking. I also spent time as a professional photographer, so I have a creative eye for detail that I bring to my campaigns. Whether you're a veteran adventurer or new to the game, I’m here to ensure every session is memorable, exciting, and fun.

Let’s roll some dice and tell an amazing story together!

Anita (she/they) is a TTRPG streamer, GM, graphic designer and cat mom about the space. They are the founder, and channel runner of Critical Misses, a Twitch presence and burgeoning community that promotes inclusivity and positivity in gaming.

They have been featured on Kobold Press, Modiphius and GenCon TV's twitch channels as both a player and a GM and has been trained by Magpie to run games as part of their Curated Play Program.

Critical Misses (Anita Wiebe)

Hello, everyone!

My name is Alex, and I have been running tabletop games since 2012 (going on 12 years now, holy cow!). I love telling a story through collaboration. Dungeons & Dragons is a beautiful method of gathering friends (old and new) and escaping through our characters. It should be fun and comfortable, while leaving room for adrenaline and tense situations along the way. I adore watching my players turn my story on its heels. I love creative solutions, and I am a firm subscriber to "The Rule of Cool".

I would love to host a group of players looking for a way into the hobby. I want to provide a comfortable space for people new to D&D, as well as to veterans like myself who want to play for a change! (I'm looking at you, the forever DM's like myself).

Come one, come all! I would love for you and your character to tell me a story, and I'll provide the tavern to start these travels.

Disclaimer: I'll do silly voices, so you can too!

Alex K

Transformers Turbo-Nerd hoping to share the wonders of pretending to be a giant alien robot! Or an elf, if that's your thing.

Female game master, LGBTQ+. Primarily running the Transformers Roleplaying Game, but DnD5e, Power Rangers Roleplaying Game, Witcher Roleplaying Game, and Vampire the Masquerade are available upon request. Prices negotiable based on number of players.

Katy

Hey, everyone! I'm a long-time player of D&D and other games. I started running games shortly after I began playing because I simply love telling stories. I've worked in various research fields and currently work in higher education. I also stream and write freelance on the side. I've run LARPs and tabletop games for over twenty years and I still love the rush when people are having fun around the table. 

I was a contributing writer to the Black Ballad, a 5E full campaign book by the Storyteller's Forge as well as a developmental editor for the project. I have worked with the Obsidian and Shadow Nations games from Apophis Consortium, primarily in their Europe setting. I have also published best selling sourcebooks on Drivethru RPG through the Storyteller's Vault program for community content (Sword of Caine: A V5 Guide to the Sabbat as well as the V20 Baali Clanbook).  

Additionally, I run Los Muertos Games on Twitch and Youtube, but updates on Youtube are scarce due to time constraints.

I enjoy telling collaborative stories and giving each player a spotlight during the game. We're all here to have fun and roll some dice, and it's always better when we all feel included. It's rewarding as a GM and awesome as a player to see others just having a blast at the table. 

Those are the stories I love to tell--the ones where everyone gets to shine and contribute to the overall narrative that we're creating. 

Let's get together and tell some stories.

Ray Jenkins

Jacob

Hi! I'm Cath. Long time player, first time GM. What I lack in experience, I make up for with a long history as a writer, actor, and yapper. My philosophy in the games I plan to run is to provide a rich world that will be the playground for the players to create the stories that they wish to, with character that matter to them.

Open communication between GM and player is super important to me and that everyone in the table is comfortable and happy.

Cath

I am a longtime TTRPG GM that loves D&D & GURPS, with a large library of books, art assets, and time to share with my players, it is my favorite thing to do. I am a huge fan of roleplay and often modify mechanics to benefit storytelling & session fluidity. I use Foundry VTT, which is free to my players, and includes vast customization options for every campaign & every participant.

Please take a look at this Google Sheet for all of my GURPS games:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1OIi-Yp_5L2k4LvJ_L-YxgZ_YF7QIsZr4h0PIoit8fKM/edit?usp=sharing

John

Hi I'm Mike Daniel, your friendly Chicago Hobbit. I have 13+ years experience GMing including running multiple DnD Campaigns to 20th level and 3 years DMing for an Adventure's League group. I host the TTRPG Podcast and Twitch Channel 19 Hits the Dragon. I've written a handful of adventures that are available on the DMs Guild with over 1,000 downloads combined.

Mike_d20

Hey there, I'm Amy. I'm a history enthusiast, horror devotee, and bird lover. I've been playing Call of Cthulhu since the late 90's when my brother ran a game of The Haunting and scared the pants off me. I've been hooked ever since. When I'm not running horror TTRPGS,  I'm a professional designer with a background in theatre and a flair for the dramatic. I bring my design and acting skills into my games by creating custom-made Roll20 modules and acting out a broad assortment of quirky 1920s NPCs. I run games for players of all experience levels, but I am especially good at working with new players in a friendly and non-judgemental enviroment. My ultimate goal is to provide players with an accessible and unforgettable experience of the Cthulhu Mythos.

GM Amy

I'm an author and Game Master who has been running games for 25 years... both for groups of friends, and at TTRPG conventions.
I'm also in the process of designing new game systems and adventures which I hope to distribute in the future!

Robert

Brett

I've been gaming and running games for over thirty years, and been a professional freelancer and indie designer for over twenty. (Sentences like this sometimes makes one question their life choices.) 

I also spent almost ten years teaching English as a second or foreign language from kindergartners to conversation seeking adults as well as for those who had professional needs. Classroom management is a little easier than herding cats, and that's just a little easier than GMing strangers, and I've got the chops for all three. (Ask me for pictures of my cats.) 

I'm a lover of all the wildest indie games out there, and I've written for a bunch of traditional games you know and love. Hit me up, whatever game you love, I might be able to run it for you. 

If you want an idea of how I run my own game, #iHunt, here's an actual play with the AMAZING crew of the Critshow! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rb9QudaBHls 

Hit me up, and let's get you gaming!

F Young

✨ Greetings, adventurers! My name is Jane (She/Her) 🌞 By day, I am a full time biochemist that explores the realms of science 🌙 By night, I become a passionate Dungeon Master, crafting magical D&D experiences. 

🏰 Unique Adventures: I create homebrew worlds with rich lore and run gender-bent modules like Curse of Strahd, transforming tropes into empowering stories.

🎓 Experienced DM: With years of experience and a teaching background, I bring organization and clear communication to every session.

🎭 Flexible Gameplay: Whether deep roleplaying or strategic combat, I tailor adventures to fit your preferences.

🌈 Respectful Environment: I prioritize a welcoming space where all players feel valued.

🔮 Epic Themes: Explore dark worlds, high-fantasy quests, or light-hearted adventures.

⚔️ Engaging Sessions: Balanced storytelling, combat, and character development.

🗺️ Visual Immersion: Custom maps and AI tools like ChatGPT enhance the game.

❌ Safety Tools: Lines and Veils, X-cards, Open Door. 

Jane

A player and gamemaster of ttrpgs for over a decade in various games/systems and a member of the Cult of Chaos, Chaosium's official Volunteer Game Master program.

Currently focused on running Call of Cthulhu and hosting frequent demo games for new players.

When I'm not running games, I'm writing them! I have multiple scenarios for Call of Cthulhu published on drivethrurpg.com via the Miskatonic Repository.

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