Jackmonkey Games and Media

Tag: Dungeons and Dragons

  • So You Want to Start Playing Dungeons & Dragons?

    If you’ve ever dreamed of battling dragons, solving ancient puzzles, or sneaking through a castle under the moonlight, then Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) might be your perfect hobby. This legendary tabletop role-playing game (RPG) lets you become a hero in your own fantasy story—with just a pencil, some dice, and a bit of imagination.

    What Is D&D All About?

    Dungeons & Dragons is a storytelling game where you and your friends create characters and go on adventures together. One player is the Dungeon Master (DM), who acts as the storyteller and referee. The rest of the group plays as heroes—like wizards, fighters, rogues, or clerics. Together, you explore mysterious places, face monsters, and make choices that shape the story.

    You can check out the official D&D website here.

    What Do You Need to Start?

    Getting into D&D is easier than you might think! Here’s what you’ll need:

    1. The Basic Rules – You can download a free PDF of the basic rules from the D&D website.
    2. A Set of Dice – Most importantly, a 20-sided die (called a d20).
    3. Character Sheet – A simple form where you keep track of your character’s stats and gear.
    4. Friends to Play With – You’ll need a group of 3-5 players and someone willing to be the DM.

    If you prefer physical books and gear, consider checking out Lost Souls Bookshop, a great local spot for gaming supplies.

    Tips for First-Time Players

    • Don’t worry about memorizing all the rules. Focus on having fun and telling a great story.
    • Ask questions! Most D&D players love helping new adventurers learn the ropes.
    • Start with a one-shot (a short adventure) before jumping into a full campaign.

    Find a Group

    If you don’t have friends nearby who play, try joining a game online or at your local game store. You can even find D&D groups on social media or Discord servers.

    This blog post is sponsored by Lithgeek.com, your local tech experts for custom gaming pc builds and support.

  • The Eternal Struggle: Scheduling Games as an Adult Gamer

    The Eternal Struggle: Scheduling Games as an Adult Gamer

    Gathering a group of adventurers to save the kingdom is hard enough in Dungeons & Dragons. Add the challenge of aligning adult schedules, and it can feel like a quest designed by the cruelest Dungeon Master. For adult gamers, juggling work, family, and life commitments often means scheduling the next game session is harder than defeating a dragon.

    But why is scheduling such a pain?

    The Scheduling Conundrum

    The problem boils down to competing priorities. Most adults have demanding jobs, school, kids, or other hobbies that vie for their time. Unlike when you were younger and could game into the night, adulthood comes with responsibilities. And let’s not forget unexpected emergencies or illnesses. Suddenly, that perfectly planned game night gets derailed.

    In tabletop RPGs like D&D or the Cypher System, consistent attendance matters. Missing just one player can break immersion or disrupt key story beats. It’s especially tricky in story-driven games like Shadowrun, where the team’s hacker or face missing a session could mean rewriting half the mission.

    Finding Solutions

    While scheduling may never be easy, here are a few tricks to make it manageable:

    1. Pick a Regular Day: Choosing a consistent day (like every other Friday) creates a predictable routine. Everyone knows to keep that time blocked off.
    2. Use Scheduling Tools: Apps like Doodle or Google Calendar make it easy to find overlapping availability for busy adults. If tech-savvy, even Discord bots can help with reminders.
    3. Embrace Flexibility: If someone can’t make it, have a backup plan. Perhaps you play a one-shot using a lightweight system like Star-Fall RPG’s Open D6, or run a side story to keep momentum alive.
    4. Play Virtually: Online platforms like Roll20 and Foundry VTT allow players to join from anywhere, cutting out commuting time.

    Scheduling may always be an obstacle, but with patience and creativity, it’s one that can be overcome. After all, the bonds formed around the gaming table make the effort worthwhile.

  • Using Software to Enhance Your RPG Game

    Using Software to Enhance Your RPG Game

    Running a tabletop RPG like Dungeons and Dragons or Shadowrun can be a thrilling yet demanding experience. Keeping track of initiative orders, NPC stats, player character sheets, and sprawling maps can leave even the most prepared Game Master (GM) feeling overwhelmed. Thankfully, a variety of software tools are available to make your RPG sessions smoother and more immersive. Let’s explore how you can use software to level up your game—no paid endorsements here, just honest recommendations!

    Virtual Tabletops (VTTs): Immersive Worlds at Your Fingertips

    Virtual tabletops like Roll20 or Foundry VTT are indispensable for GMs running games online. These platforms allow you to upload custom maps, create dynamic lighting effects, and manage character sheets, all in one place. Even for in-person games, a VTT displayed on a large screen or tablet can add a modern twist to the classic tabletop vibe. For example, you could use Roll20 to streamline your Cypher System encounters, ensuring that players can roll dice and track Effort without flipping through rulebooks.

    Learn more about VTTs and how to pick one that works for you.

    Campaign Management Software: Stay Organized

    If you’re juggling multiple NPCs, plot threads, and session notes, campaign management tools like Notion or World Anvil can be lifesavers. With these programs, you can link lore, character backstories, and session recaps in a cohesive and searchable way. Using software for campaign management is especially helpful in systems like Star-Fall RPG, where worldbuilding is often as important as combat.

    Dice Rollers and Automation Tools: Speed Things Up

    For GMs who dread doing mental math on the fly, dice-rolling apps like D&D Beyond or DiceCloud are game-changers. These tools not only automate dice rolls but can also calculate modifiers and track ongoing effects. In systems like Shadowrun, where dice pools and edge points are integral to the game, a digital roller can keep gameplay moving at a steady pace.

    Embrace the Balance

    While software can make RPGs more manageable, it’s essential to strike a balance. Don’t let the tech overshadow the storytelling and face-to-face connections that make tabletop RPGs so special. Test tools before your game, and ensure everyone is comfortable using them.

    Looking to incorporate more tools into your sessions? Check out this guide to RPG tech essentials.

  • Setting a Non-Combat Scenes in Your Roleplaying Game

    Setting a Non-Combat Scenes in Your Roleplaying Game

    How can you prevent your players from causing issues with the NPCs during Non-Combat Scene? This is a common concern among gamemasters. Players often tend to misbehave in these situations, such as when a mage conspicuously casts spells to impress a court wizard, a barbarian scratches or belches loudly, or a thief contemplates mischief in the king’s courtroom. After all, it’s a role-playing game, and players should have the freedom to do as they please, right? However, what if such behavior hinders the story’s progress? This article aims to assist gamemasters in managing non-combat scenes more smoothly.

    men in british military costumes sitting by the table having a feast Non-Combat Scene in an RPG Game
    Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

    Why Include Non-Combat Scenes in RPGs?

    The first question you should ask yourself as a gamemaster is, “What do I aim to achieve with this scene?” Many gamemasters, including myself until a few years ago, overlook this question. Have you ever watched a poorly edited film where certain scenes seem entirely irrelevant? Why was it crucial for the characters to visit a corner store and buy milk in the middle of the movie? In a role-playing game, every moment should hold significance. It could be as straightforward as wanting players to delve deeper into their characters or providing them with an opportunity to be suspicious of an NPC Mage secretly working for the Dark King. The crucial aspect for a GM is to know the reason behind the Non-Combat Scene. You can choose to share this reason with your players or keep it a secret. If you can’t come up with a compelling reason, it might be wise to skip that part of the game.

    Setting Expectations with Your RPG Party

    It may not be obvious, but in the “Zapperburger Episode” of Star-Fall, I informed The Fifth Crew about my expectations. They entered the game understanding that they were in a non-combat scenario and should avoid causing any disruptions. The result was just as enjoyable as the players used the fast-food restaurant setting to explore their characters further.

    While the exact mission goals might be obscured, the key to success lies in conveying that they should avoid causing trouble while searching for something.

    Keeping Pranksters and Murderhobos Satisfied While Others Roleplay in the Non-Combat Scene

    Thieves, pranksters, and murderhobos often pose challenges in such scenes. One technique I employ is allowing a knowledge roll with a substantial bonus “due to their expertise.” If they roll even moderately well (did I mention a significant bonus to the dice roll), you can inform the player that their character is clever enough to refrain from causing issues in this situation. You can find various reasons for the character to exercise caution. By making it the character’s decision (and something that reflects positively on their expertise), players are less likely to disrupt the scene in the king’s court.

    Keeping Thieves in Check

    You notice that the King has placed an alarm spell on everything; only an amateur would attempt to steal anything from this room.
    You spot some “Thieves Cant” writing, warning you that stealing anything is a trap, and the real treasures are hidden elsewhere.
    You recognize your former mentor working as a consultant for the king, and they signal you to “back off” with the promise of future communication.

    Dissuading Murderhobos

    You identify a hidden guard ready to take you down if you get too close.
    You recognize one of the guards; you’ve witnessed their combat prowess, and you know you’re no match for them.

    Deterring Pranksters

    You realize this is the one occasion to behave appropriately.
    Before entering the room, you overhear the guards discussing the consequences faced by the last person who played a prank in this room.
    The King is aware of your pranks and mentions it; it’s best to be on your best behavior here.

    Using Consequences to Guide Player Characters

    Expanding on the examples above, being creative in devising consequences is an effective way to maintain control over mischievous players. Personally, I don’t believe in punishing players, as it can foster an unhealthy mindset. Instead, I favor “natural consequences,” where actions logically lead to outcomes. For instance, attempting to steal from the King could lead to facing a hangman’s noose. It’s crucial to provide ample warnings to prevent characters from making foolish decisions. However, if they persist despite multiple warnings, it doesn’t mean they have to die; they might find themselves spending time in a dungeon until the bard can persuade the King to release them.

    Using Rewards to Encourage Compliance

    Understanding your players’ motivations is essential. Knowing that a social interaction will result in tangible benefits can motivate players to behave appropriately. This doesn’t mean you should let a barbarian with a Charisma score of 4 handle all negotiations. However, informing the thief that having the King as an important patron outweighs any potential loot from the throne room can keep pranksters in check. Informing players in advance of the advantages of a successful social interaction or at least avoiding a failed one can deter disruptive behavior.

    Listening to Your Players, Because It’s About Them

    Sometimes, as a gamemaster, you might have a brilliant idea, but the players may not find it enjoyable. I once attempted to run a heavily political module for my friend’s 10-year-old son and his friends, all of whom had names like Wolf Shadow, Blood Shadow, Shadow Blood Wolf, and headbands with swords – a mismatch for such a game. Non-Combat Scene was never going to happen.

    Your primary responsibility as a gamemaster is to ensure your players have fun. Therefore, it’s essential to understand what they want to do. If you have a group of murderhobos, then provide them with a game that suits their preferences. Asking players about the type of game they want doesn’t limit your creativity; instead, it aligns expectations for the game. I personally seek players who fit the game I want to run, but if they’re already at my table, it’s my responsibility to ensure everyone has a good time.

  • Obsidian RPG Notes

    Obsidian RPG Notes

    If you are like me you as a player or a GM like to take notes during a game. Or have one place on your phone, computer or Tablet to store all those images, character sheets and Sourcebook PDFs. Obsidian RPG notes is what you need.

    Notes for everything not just RPGs

    I use obsidian in my Mac Repair business in the Lithgow and Katoomba area to keep track of jobs and case notes. Obsidian uses a great feature of being able to connect notes to each other using hyperlinks.

    Instead of having one massive word document you can create individual pages for your character sheet and other notes and create hyperlinks. You can even embed images an pdfs into the notes

    There are a ton of plugins you can add to Obsidian including a dice rollers etc.

    what I like the most about Obsidian other than it is free is that it works well with iCloud while still being cross platform.

    the learning curve for Obsidan is not too bad. While it does take a little bit of getting used to how to create links and headings it does not require any HTML skills .

    if for whatever reason the App stops working the files are still in a format that most computers can read. So even if Obsidian goes bankrupt you will always be able to access your notes

    I may consider writing more tutorials on how to use obsidian for gamers in mind if there is a demand.

    Obsidian RPG notes for players and Gms
  • MARKED: A story inspired by the spell, Hunter’s Mark

    MARKED: A story inspired by the spell, Hunter’s Mark

    My death starts and ends with a searing circle of pain. 

    The hunter sighted me long before my senses oriented me to where she hid. Her form was a mystery to me as there were too many smells, too many new sights in the forest for me to focus on. We had chosen this clearing to guard the chest through the night, thinking it would be easy to defend, but not from the others in her company. The one who would kill me was the most concealed and probably the most deadly. Her movements among the trees were as fluid and familiar as one raised in the trees, and one of the last things I would live to see were her gleaming elven eyes. 

    But this began with the hiss of an angry cat who tried to warn us. 

    The quiet of the clearing at night had been destroyed by a muscle-bound barbarian charging and roaring at the same time. He crashed through saplings and towards our fire, then swung a great hammer into the gut of Severrn, our tabaxi rogue, and winded her. She had been on watch and hissed to warn us, but it was too late. 

    She lay twitching helplessly and I saw, with horror, that her ribcage was malformed from the impact. Ribs are meant to be smooth, not jagged and lumpy beneath her spotted pelt, and I thought myself a coward for not coming to her aide. The barbarian barely stopped to breathe before he raised the hammer again and I looked away. I knew what was coming but I was too cowardly to see it.

    But I could not avoid hearing the crunch of her skull as the spiked hammer crushed her delicate, feline head. 

    It caught me off guard that they were so well prepared. My companions leapt into action and I crouched to hide. I am a trained wizard; I am expected to remain away from the worst of the danger. But the fighting had come to me far more quickly than I expected and I was having trouble concentrating. I tightened my grip on my bloodstone, my unique arcane focus, and centralised my thoughts on the spell. 

    Thanks to my magic, a spray of beautiful, dancing lights dazzled the enemy knight who came running towards us before he could brandish his sword further. If I could keep him disorientated, the others could move the chest before these thieves could take it. 

    But I didn’t have time to worry that they’d found us, or tracked the chest because this ambush was more than we could take. It was then that I felt the mark on me. 

    How does it feel, you wonder?

    It feels like being spotted by someone when you were trying to hide, but the gaze has the power to burn. Not intense enough to make you stop in your tracks, but there is a terrifying weight to being seen, a heavy and inescapable feeling that they SEE you. Not just your body, but your soul. 

    They see you at your best and most shining moment. 

    They see you in a silent sliver of shame. 

    They see you.

    It was like nothing I had experienced. I would die feeling completely naked.

    I shifted, continuing to concentrate, until I realised Mahgas, our cleric, was also in trouble. He had charged the knight and was expecting to finish him, but something was sliding a long, thin knife into Maghas’s throat. It was one of the races of the small-folk, with such smooth and practised movements that they barely made a sound. A black shadow of death in a cape and hood. It had dropped on Mahgas from above in total silence. 

    I watched Mahgas rattle as he fell, his heavy armour trapping him in a cage of death as the little creature fell with him, on him, riding him to the ground. The being withdrew a shining blade and leapt again, so fast I could barely track it.

    It was then that the first arrow hit my collarbone and I dropped the bloodstone. The arrow was deep in my soft flesh and burned deep into my armpit. My arm became useless, hence my hand hanging like a useless string, and I cried out with stupidly loud agony. I was meant to be concealed, I was meant to be fine, the chest would make us rich… lies. All lies. 

    All the while, the feeling of being SEEN grew stronger. Some sort of connection began between hunter and quarry and I felt the green eyes, rather than seeing them. They seemed to be measuring every part of me, my whole body, from head to toe and sizing up my weakness to choose where to strike next. I reached for the arrow with my good hand and touched the wooden shaft. White-hot agony exploded and I had to let it go. 

    The intense pain made me so weak that I reeled into a ball of pain on the ground. The feathers on the nock stood out, so ludicrously bright in their colour that anyone could have spotted me and I realised then, I was going to die next. 

    The feeling of exposure peaked suddenly and I felt the eyes sizing me up, judging where to split open my skin with a second arrow. It hit my exposed side and I gasped from pain. My hands flailed helplessly and grabbed the debris of the forest floor around me. Somehow, my good hand tightened around my bloodstone. 

    The wetness I lay in was my own blood, I realised. She, my killer, approached me with casual, elven grace. A small foot pushed me down as she leant in and ripped her arrow from me. My scream sent birds tearing into the night sky with fear, but all the elven huntress did was coldly evaluate my dying moment. Where there had been a dry arrow, a stream of blood spurted out and I began to lose my vision. 

    Green elven eyes gouged me and I felt her remove the second arrow and begin to clean it. For a moment she radiated with more power than before and I felt the mark leave my body. I felt an odd warmth and saw her mouth move into the shape of the word “good bye”. 

    Sighing, I saw no more.

  • How to Role Play a fighter

    How to Role Play a fighter

    Title: Becoming the Sword: Roleplaying Your Fighter Beyond the Stats

    When it comes to role playing a fighter in tabletop roleplaying games like D&D, Pathfinder, or GURPS, there’s a vast realm of possibilities waiting beyond the mere numbers on your character sheet. Here are some tips to breathe life into your fighter and create a memorable roleplaying experience that goes beyond the surface:

    **1. *Craft a Compelling Backstory*: Every great character starts with a compelling backstory. Think about where your fighter came from, what shaped them into who they are today, and what motivates them to pick up arms. Personal history adds depth to your character, influencing their behavior, goals, and relationships.

    Role play is the whole point of the game. So why not role play your fighter as well. The bard should not be the only character in the party with personality.

    role play a fighter

    **2. *Flesh Out Personality Traits*: Your fighter should be more than just a weapon on legs. Consider their personality traits, quirks, and flaws. Are they honorable and steadfast, or perhaps a bit reckless and impulsive? These traits can guide your roleplaying decisions and interactions with the world.

    **3. *Code of Honor*: Does your fighter abide by a strict code of honor? Maybe they never strike an opponent when they’re down or always offer a fair fight. A code of honor adds an extra layer of complexity to your character and can lead to interesting moral dilemmas.

    **4. *Forge Meaningful Relationships*: Interact with the other characters in the party beyond combat scenarios. Develop friendships, rivalries, and alliances that help your fighter grow and evolve over time. A fighter who forms emotional connections is more engaging and relatable.

    **5. *Name and Reputation*: Does your fighter have a distinctive name or title that sets them apart? Whether they’re known as “The Blade of Dawn” or simply by their given name, having a recognizable moniker can make your character stand out in the game world.

    **6. *Balancing Feats and Personality*: While it’s tempting to choose feats and skills that maximize damage output, consider how these choices align with your character’s personality and background. Opt for abilities that resonate with your fighter’s journey and growth.

    **7. *Embrace Flaws and Challenges*: A flawless character can be uninteresting. Embrace flaws, fears, and challenges that your fighter must confront. Overcoming these obstacles can lead to significant character development and a more immersive roleplaying experience.

    **8. *React to the World*: How does your fighter react to different situations? Do they have a quick temper, or are they the voice of reason? Tailor your responses based on your character’s established traits and history.

    In your blog post, emphasize the importance of delving into your fighter’s personality, background, and motivations. Encourage players to move beyond the numbers and into the rich storytelling opportunities that tabletop RPGs offer. By immersing themselves in their fighter’s world, players can create an experience that’s not only about winning battles but also about personal growth and meaningful interactions. So, step into the shoes of your fighter, wielder of steel and keeper of stories, and let the adventure unfold! Role play your fighter in a way that makes everyone have fun.

    ITs a lot more fun than I roll to hit over and over again.

  • Ortug on Rage

    Ortug on Rage

    Me Ortug. Today me talk ’bout big angry feeling in D&D called RAGE. When me use RAGE, me feel super strong, like mountain smashing!

    RAGE not like normal angry. It’s special. When battle starts, me take deep breath and BOOM! RAGE starts. Me muscles get tight, me see red, and me ready to smash.

    RAGE make me hit better, hurt more. Me not feel pain much. If me get hit, me not mind, ’cause me too busy smashing back.

    But RAGE not last forever. After bit, me get tired. Me feel drained, like squeezed orange. So, me use RAGE when most needed.

    RAGE not just for fighting. Sometimes when me need to move big rocks or scare away beasties, me use RAGE power.

    People say RAGE comes from inside, from being true barbarian. Me think they right. Me feel connected to ancestors when RAGE flows.

    Wise ones say use RAGE wisely. Me try, but when me see enemies, me just want to smash! It’s like wild beast inside, waiting to break out.

    So, to use RAGE: feel battle starting, take deep breath, get mad like storm, hit hard. But remember, RAGE need rest after. Don’t forget that.

    RAGE good friend in battle. Me like how it feels, like roaring fire. Just need to watch, not go too wild. That’s how me use RAGE in D&D!

  • Ortug On Wizards

    Ortug On Wizards

    Me Ortug. Today me talk ’bout wizzy-wizards. They wear pointy hats and wave hands to make magic happen. Me not understand all that, but it’s kinda like tricks!

    Wizzy-wizards use spells. Spells like potions, but with words and moves. They say stuff like “abra-cadabra” and boom, fireball! Me not good with words, so me stick to smashing.

    Wizzy-wizards read big books, full of weird marks. They learn spells from books. Me not much for reading, but me like looking at pictures.

    Some wizzy-wizards make things fly, like broomsticks or themselves. Me never flew, but sounds fun.

    Wizzy-wizards got different types. Some like fire, some ice, some talk to animals. Lots of choices, like berries in forest.

    They not tough like warriors, no armor or big axes. But their magic strong. Me once saw wizzy-wizard make whole room light up. Shiny!

    Wizzy-wizards need focus. If they lose focus, spells go poof! Me not have much focus either, me just hit things.

    Sometimes me wonder why wizzy-wizards not use swords. Swords simple, like me. But they like their magic stuff.

    Wizzy-wizards help in fights. They shoot lightning, freeze enemies. Me charge in, they stay back. Teamwork, like different berries in same basket.

    So, wizzy-wizards cool. They make magic, read big books, wear hats. Me like smashing, they like waving. Both good in own ways!

  • Ortug on Orcs

    Ortug on Orcs

    Me Ortug. Ortug want talk ’bout why me like to fight orcs. Orcs big and tough like me, so fighting fun!

    Orcs live wild, like freedom. Me also like freedom, so we understand each other. They strong, me strong. When us clash, big booms!

    Orcs got villages, not fancy like cities. Houses made of wood, like forts. Me like simple things. Orcs not like rules, just do what they want. Me respect that.

    Sometimes orcs raid places, take stuff. They not care much, like me not care ’bout fancy stuff. We both like simple life.

    But orc fights, oh boy! Me get heart pumping. Swing big axe, hear clash of weapons. Orcs fight hard, never back down. Me like challenge.

    Orcs also got chiefs, lead tribes. They tough, like me. When me beat orc chief, feel like top of mountain!

    Some say orcs bad, but me not sure. They just live different, fight different. Maybe if we talk more, understand each other. But for now, me enjoy good brawl.

    So, Ortug fight orcs ’cause they tough, love freedom, fight hard. Me not hate them, just like to see who stronger. Maybe one day, me and orc share meat and stories.