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Summary
So, youve decided to take the plunge and become a Dungeon Master.
It’s an exciting role that bears a lot of responsibility.
As Dungeon Master, you are in charge of running a game ofDungeons & Dragonsfor a group of players.
You could follow published modules, or run a homemade campaign.
Enhance your D&D sessions without paying a penny.
Hopefully, this list of tips will help your first DMing experience go a little smoother.
Here are some things to keep in mind, whether you’re a first-time DM or a lifelong one.
These can be completely mundane rolls as well.
Take your time, and double-check to set the scene for your players.
This can even be done mid-combat as the world around them reacts to their choices.
There’s no right or wrong time to set up a table rule.
Just verify to discuss it with your table, adjusting said rules as you need with player feedback.
24Use The Rule Of Cool
A fan favorite for tabletop players of all types.
Knowing when to use this option can make for some great stories.
23Let Everyone Have A Say
Every player is different.
Art by Diana Cearley
As your game goes on, confirm everyone is getting their say at the table.
They may surprise you, or at least they’ll know they’re a welcome member of the team.
Neither of these styles is wrong.
An Open Portal by Michele Giorgi
For example, if the player rolls insight versus deception to see if a captive is lying to them.
And in this example, if theyre waylaid, its just another opportunity for more adventures!
When it comes to difficulty, you have to strike a balance.
Mordenkainen by Helge C. Balzer
If encounters are too easy, players feel like theyre not being challenged and might get bored.
Plus, it really kills the vibes.
This is generally less disruptive to the game.
Art by Bryan Sola
Otherwise, dont let them deliberate for too long.
All this goes double for DM Player Characters.
Theyre viewed with suspicion in the community for a reason.
A Settlement by Sam Keiser
In general, try not to take agency away from your players and give it to your NPCs.
Even ifan NPC is important to your story, its ultimately your players who should drive the action.
You don’t need to have everything ready because that will cause severe burnout before the game even begins.
However, just winging the whole session won’t suffice either.
A veteran DM can do that occasionally, but that won’t be enough for an ongoing campaign.
Always prepare to dosomeimprov.
Art by Mike Burns via Wizards of the Coast
After all, even the most well-behaved players will throw you for a loop.
It’s part of the fun!
Because “you deal seven damage” doesn’t have much flair.
Young Kas and Vecna, by Lily Abullina.
Nadaar, Selfless Paladin by Aaron Miller
Izzet Chemister by Svetlin Velinov
