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So You Want to Be a Dungeon Master?
Are you ready to create your own epic adventures, strike fear into the hearts of players, and weave tales of heroism? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this starter’s guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to take on the mantle of Dungeon Master for your next D&D game.
Want to be a player instead? There’s a guide for that, too!
What is a Dungeon Master?
First, it’s important to understand your new job title! The Dungeon Master (usually called the DM) is in charge of the entire game. From recruiting players, to choosing the world, to filling the world with monsters and interesting characters, the DM has total control of everything.
Step 1: Get a Copy of the Rules
Next, you’ll need to know the basic framework of the rules. Fortunately, the Basic Rules for the current 5th Edition are available here completely free! The Basic Rules cover everything from creating characters to rules the DM needs to run the game to premade monsters ready to throw into your next adventure.
If you want to expand your collection of character options, gruesome monsters, and tips and tricks to DM better games, there are tons of additional books available to help you out, such as the Dungeon Master’s Guide. Be sure to check out this guide for even more great options!
Step 2: Choose Your Adventure
As the DM, it’s your role to create and guide the adventures. You’ll craft the story, control the non-player characters (NPCs), and set the challenges for your players. You have two basic options for your first time: homebrew a totally unique adventure or pick a pre-made one from the thousands of options others have already made.
Homebrewing is an extensive topic and usually not recommended for a first time DM. However, if you think you’re up to the challenge, be sure to check this guide on getting started with homebrewing. For now, we’ll focus on pre-made adventures.
There are two great starter adventures available directly from Wizards of the Coast. The first is Dragons of Stormwreck Isle, which is available in the Starter Set along with other helpful components such as dice. The second is the Dragon of Icespire Peak, which is available in the Essentials Kit which also has other great tools for playing in person like a DM screen.
Keep in mind, using a pre-made adventure doesn’t mean your game won’t be unique. You still get to bring life to the NPCs or even add your own ideas to change the adventure itself. Don’t be afraid to let your creativity shine and surprise your players with unexpected twists and turns!
Step 3: Find Some Adventurers
Now that you’ve chosen the world through which you’ll guide your players, you’ll need a group of adventurers to join you on your quest. Gather your friends, family, or fellow enthusiasts who share your love for fantasy and adventure. A typical adventuring party consists of 3-6 players, each assuming the role of a unique character. The adventure you choose may have its own recommendation for how many players should join.
If you’re short on available players, there are many great options for recruiting some extra adventurers. Check out a guide on how to find local or online players here.
Step 4: Start Playing!
With the rules in your arsenal, an adventuring party assembled, and a world for them to explore, it’s time to start playing! Gather around the table, grab some snacks, set the mood with some epic music, and let the adventures begin. As the DM, you will describe the world, the players will make decisions, and the dice will determine the outcomes. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and let your (and your players’) imagination run wild!
What’s Next?
Starting your journey into the world of Dungeons & Dragons is an exciting and rewarding experience. Once you’ve followed these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating memorable adventures and forging bonds with your players. Where you go next is up to you. Whether you want to dive into homebrewing your unique world or expand your collection with some of the great works that already exist, the possibilities for where you take your journey next are virtually endless!