Joorrekiin (Dwayne)

Melo ran a good introduction to a new game system. He kept everyone relaxed and laughing by developing instant rapport with the rest of the players and not taking the rules of the game too seriously.

Always a fun time with Robin. She understands the spirit of the games she runs and comfortably makes the logical call when players attempt shenanigans. This is a GM who strikes that balance between making things challenging and cheering for the players. 5/5 would play again!

Playing a classic D&D module using the new edition rules with Deratio has been a lot of fun. He is knowledgeable on the updated mechanics as well as comfortable making on-the-fly decisions. Deratio is handy with an improvised description of any exciting piece of action, fully giving us the experience of playing these classic tabletop modules as they were played in the era they were written. In addition, he is accommodating to players at our table who are English language learners or who have disabilities, meaning I always feel safe and included. The innate D&D Beyond VTT is functional and easy to use, and the Kenku.fm bot provides fantasy video game background music to help stave off any awkward silences.

So much fun. Shadowdark started out compatible with the 5th edition Open Gaming License, with all the less fun stuff trimmed away. It captures the spirit of old-school gaming, with the improvements in gameplay and accessibility that come from decades of classic RPGs. While it shines in a dungeon delve, there's enough here to run a long-form campaign with an overworld. Don't forget your torch.

This game has mechanics that are different enough that they help transport players into the world of Tolkien, both alive and ancient. I love the unique 12-sided die with Sauron and Gandalf faces, representing a zero or a success depending on the roller’s alignment. A the choice of stances for combat are like verses, the distinct adventuring phases, like chapters of a book. Players new to the system: try the Roll20 module so you can experience this game as it was intended. Don’t settle for the adapted “Lord of the Rings 5E Roleplaying” rules.