The Dragons with the Dungeons

Basic Player Character Rules

5 min read

Info

BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE: This campaign is horror in theme. Please inform the DM of any actual fears or scenarios that should not be used. Believe it or not, the DM does not want to cause any lasting psychological damage.

Character Creation

Starting Parameters

  • Starting Level: 1st level
  • Ability Scores:
    • Dice Roll (4d6 drop the lowest, 1x mulligan);
    • Use Point Buy (27 points);
    • or Standard Array (15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 8);
  • Hit Points: Maximum at 1st level (Base + Constitution modifier)
  • Starting Equipment: Class starting equipment or starting gold (player’s choice)

Race and Class Restrictions

  • Allowed Races: Any official D&D 5e races
    • Player’s Handbook;
    • Supplements;
    • and no custom classes (no shape shifting elementals - you know who you are)
  • Allowed Classes: Any official D&D 5e classes and subclasses
    • Player’s Handbook;
    • and Supplements;
  • Multi-classing: Allowed with DM approval (must fit character concept, we are not going to have any bard/barbarians in the party that play air guitar on their battleaxe)

Background and Roleplay

  • Background: Any official background or create custom background that aligns with the Arc.
  • Character Ties: Each character should have a reason to be in Millbrook Village
  • Personality: Characters should have:
    • Clear motivations;
    • Fears;
    • and Personality traits;
  • Horror Theme: Consider how your character reacts to supernatural/horror elements

Core Gameplay Rules

Roleplay Focus

  • Social Encounters: Emphasis on talking through problems before resorting to violence
  • Character Development: Regular opportunities for character growth through interactions
  • Party Dynamics: Encourage meaningful relationships between player characters
  • NPC Interaction: Take time to engage with NPCs and learn their stories

Horror Elements

  • Fear and Sanity: Characters may be affected by frightening supernatural events
  • Investigation: Gather clues, ask questions, and piece together mysteries
  • Atmosphere: Embrace the creepy, unsettling mood of horror scenarios
  • Consequences: Actions (and inactions) in horror scenarios often have lasting effects

Combat Guidelines

  • Tactical Thinking: Combat should be approached strategically, not just rolling dice
  • Meaningful Encounters: Every combat should serve the story or character development
  • Non-Lethal Options: Consider subduing, negotiating, or fleeing when appropriate
  • Environmental Factors: Use terrain, lighting, and atmosphere to your advantage

Session Structure

Time Management

  • 3-Hour Sessions: Be mindful of time and stay focused on current objectives
  • Breaks: Break when you need, this is casual we are here to have fun.
  • Food & Beverage: Depending where we play will determine the available snacks. No limitations on what you can bring snacks, beer, whatever (Only caveat is don’t get belligerent in front of Little Nibber, there will be consequences)
    • Nibbler Castle always has some kind of chips, water, juice, snacks, and meals.
    • The Rodman Estate: TBD
    • The Ehrora vineyards: TBD
  • Participation: Ensure all players get spotlight time and meaningful contributions

Investigation and Exploration

  • Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to investigate details and ask for clarification
  • Take Notes: Keep track of clues, NPCs, and important information
  • Work Together: Share information and theories with other party members
  • Think Creatively: Horror scenarios often require unconventional solutions

Character Progression

Experience and Leveling

  • Milestone Leveling: Characters advance based on story progression, not just combat
  • Roleplay Rewards: Good roleplay and creative problem-solving contribute to advancement
  • Group Progression: All characters level up together to maintain party balance

Equipment and Magic Items

  • Realistic Acquisition: Magic items are rare and should feel special when found
  • Story Integration: Equipment often ties into the narrative and mysteries
  • Maintenance: Keep track of ammunition, spell components, and equipment condition

New Player Guidelines

Definitely not calling out you Nibbs!

Learning the Game

  • Ask Questions: Experienced players and DM are here to help you learn
  • Start Simple: Focus on basic actions first, complexity comes with experience
  • Reference Materials: Keep basic rules handy (Player’s Handbook, quick reference sheets)
  • Mistakes Happen: Don’t worry about perfect play, we all can’t be like me, but remember that learning is part of the fun
  • Take Notes: Make sure you take notes about the story and events that have taken place. This will help you remember important details.
  • Note to Bards: Just because you can romance it, doesn’t always mean you should romance it.

Character Building Tips

  • Simple Concepts: Start with straightforward character ideas you can easily roleplay
  • Clear Motivations: Know why your character adventures and what drives them
  • Backup Plans: Have a few different actions ready for your turn in combat
  • Team Player: Consider how your character works with and supports others

Experienced Player Guidelines

Supporting New Players

  • Be Patient: Help newcomers learn without taking over their characters
  • Share Knowledge: Offer tactical advice and rules clarification when appropriate
  • Lead by Example: Demonstrate good roleplay and creative problem-solving
  • Inclusive Play: Make sure everyone gets chances to contribute and shine
  • Encourage Roleplay: Encourage all players to participate in the role play. The more participation, the more fun!

Advanced Gameplay

  • Tactical Leadership: Help coordinate party actions in complex situations
  • Rules Knowledge: Assist with rules questions but defer to DM for final decisions
  • Character Depth: Develop complex character arcs and relationships
  • Mentorship: Guide newer players in character development and strategic thinking

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