As a Dungeon Master (DM), preparing for a Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) session can be a daunting task. With so many details to keep track of, it's easy to get overwhelmed. However, with the right tools and a solid prep template, you can create an epic adventure for your players. In this article, we'll explore five essential tools for D&D session prep and provide a template to help you get started.
Why is Session Prep Important?
Before we dive into the tools and template, let's talk about why session prep is crucial for a successful D&D game. Proper preparation helps you:
- Create a cohesive and engaging storyline
- Develop well-rounded NPCs and villains
- Prepare challenging encounters and puzzles
- Manage player expectations and agency
- Ensure a smooth and enjoyable gameplay experience
Tool #1: World-Building Software
A world-building software is a must-have for any DM. These tools help you create, organize, and visualize your campaign setting, including its geography, history, and cultures. Some popular options include:
- Campaign Logger: A free, web-based tool for tracking campaign events, NPCs, and locations.
- World Anvil: A comprehensive world-building platform with features like maps, timelines, and character management.
- Obsidian Portal: A cloud-based campaign manager that includes tools for world-building, NPC creation, and adventure planning.
Example of World-Building with Campaign Logger
Tool #2: Character and NPC Builders
A character and NPC builder helps you create balanced and interesting characters for your players and non-player characters (NPCs). These tools often include features like:
- Character stat blocks
- Skill and ability calculators
- Equipment and spell lists
- Backstory and personality generators
Some popular options include:
- D&D Beyond: The official digital platform for D&D, featuring a comprehensive character builder and NPC generator.
- Roll20: A virtual tabletop platform that includes a character and NPC builder, as well as tools for creating and running adventures.
- PCGen: A free, open-source character generator that supports multiple RPG systems, including D&D.
Character Building with D&D Beyond
Tool #3: Map and Encounter Builders
A map and encounter builder helps you create visually appealing and challenging encounters for your players. These tools often include features like:
- Map creation and editing
- Encounter building and balancing
- Terrain and feature generators
- Token and asset management
Some popular options include:
- Roll20: Includes a built-in map and encounter builder, as well as a vast library of assets and tokens.
- Fantasy Grounds: A virtual tabletop platform that features a map and encounter builder, as well as tools for creating and running adventures.
- Dungeon Painter Studio: A powerful map creation tool that includes features like automated lighting and terrain generation.
Map Building with Roll20
Tool #4: Session Prep Templates
A session prep template helps you organize and structure your prep work, ensuring that you cover all the essential elements of a successful session. These templates often include sections for:
- Session goals and objectives
- Encounter and combat planning
- NPC and villain development
- Player agency and choice
- World-building and lore
You can find many free session prep templates online, or create your own using a tool like Google Docs or Microsoft Excel.
Example of Session Prep Template
Tool #5: Virtual Tabletop Platforms
A virtual tabletop platform helps you run and manage your game sessions online, including tools for:
- Video and audio conferencing
- Map and encounter sharing
- Token and asset management
- Dice rolling and combat resolution
Some popular options include:
- Roll20: A comprehensive virtual tabletop platform that includes tools for map building, encounter creation, and character management.
- Fantasy Grounds: A virtual tabletop platform that features tools for map building, encounter creation, and character management.
- Discord: A popular communication platform that includes features like video and audio conferencing, screen sharing, and bot integration.
Running a Virtual Session with Roll20
Session Prep Template
Here is a basic session prep template that you can use as a starting point for your own games:
- Session Goals and Objectives
- What are the main goals and objectives of the session?
- What do the players need to accomplish?
- Encounter and Combat Planning
- What encounters and combats will the players face?
- What are the stats and abilities of the enemies?
- NPC and Villain Development
- Who are the main NPCs and villains in the session?
- What are their motivations and goals?
- Player Agency and Choice
- What choices and decisions will the players need to make?
- How will these choices impact the game world and story?
- World-Building and Lore
- What is the history and background of the game world?
- What are the main cultures and factions in the game world?
By using these tools and template, you can create a comprehensive and engaging D&D session that your players will love.
Gallery of D&D Session Prep Examples
FAQ Section
What is the best tool for world-building?
+The best tool for world-building is a matter of personal preference. Some popular options include Campaign Logger, World Anvil, and Obsidian Portal.
How do I create a balanced encounter?
+To create a balanced encounter, consider the players' level, abilities, and equipment. You can use tools like D&D Beyond's Encounter Builder or Roll20's Encounter Builder to help you balance the encounter.
What is the best virtual tabletop platform?
+The best virtual tabletop platform is a matter of personal preference. Some popular options include Roll20, Fantasy Grounds, and Discord.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to D&D session prep. By using these tools and template, you can create an epic adventure for your players that they will never forget. Happy gaming!