Shannon

We are only allowed three tags when we do a review, but Joel hits them all, so let me start by putting them here: Allows for player creativity, Inclusive/Safe, Knows the Rules, Rule of Cool, Sets the mood (Soundscapes & Music), Terrific Storyteller, Good for beginners, Incredible Visual Aids, Amazing & fun voices, World Builder. Joel is all of these things - and he accomplishes this while putting on an amazing and highly-modified Curse of Strahd campaign, which is a feat in and of itself! He has incorporated a ton of fresh takes on the module, making it replayable even if you have played it before. I can't say enough about how thoughtful and creative Joel is, and how safe a space this is to play. I've laughed and cried at his table. He rewards players for creativity and even encourages players to give other players inspiration for great storytelling. When there are issues with a player, he addresses them thoroughly and thoughtfully. Every session leaves room for feedback, what you liked, what you didn't like, and MVP of the game gets inspiration. This is not to say that we are swimming in inspiration - let's just say the game world might be hard on our characters and we need it! I haven't played in his non-Strahd games but I am at two of his Strahd tables as I write this and experience the same quality at both games. I can't wait to dive into all the ways each game is a unique experience!

Ash is a wonderful and kind dungeon master. Using full theater of the mind, players are offered tons of creative leeway, great roleplay, solid storytelling, fun encounters, and plenty of rewards. Ash incorporates player feedback and backstory wherever possible, making players feel like they are the heroes they want to be. One of my favorite campaigns!