Category: How To Write A Game

  • The 6 Conflict Types That Work Best for DnD Backstories

    In this video, I analyse the six types of literary conflict and explain how they can be effectively applied when creating and developing Dungeons & Dragons characters.

    The six types of conflict are:

    • Character vs. Self
    • Character vs. Character
    • Character vs. Nature
    • Character vs. Technology
    • Character vs. Supernatural
    • Character vs. Society

    Understanding these conflict types is crucial for constructing a well-rounded character and guiding their story arc. This awareness allows for deeper roleplaying and more dynamic interactions in your campaigns.

    Exploring these various conflicts can also spark new ideas for your character’s development. For instance, you could assign each conflict type a number and roll to determine which conflict your character will face, offering an engaging way to drive narrative progression.

  • Royal Revelations: Level Up Your D&D Game With Tudor Lore

    Here I explore the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives and how their stories can serve as the foundation for a Tudor-themed Dungeons and Dragons game.

    Inspired by my recent visit to the “Six Lives: The Stories of Henry VIII’s Queens” exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery, I gained valuable insights, which inspired me to create this video.

    I provide a brief overview of each queen’s life and discuss which D&D character classes might best fit them. Additionally, I offer ideas on how to craft backstories or design campaigns based on their historical experiences.

    Finally, I reflect on what the lives of these queens can teach us about D&D, particularly in terms of politics, gameplay, and storytelling.

  • Anakin Skywalker’s Flaws: A Lesson in DnD Character Growth

    In this video, I will analyze Anakin Skywalker’s fatal flaws and explore how you can incorporate similar elements when creating Dungeons & Dragons characters.

    I begin by outlining Anakin’s most significant flaws, including the critical flaw that ultimately leads him to embrace the dark side.

    What I find particularly compelling about Anakin’s character arc, is the depth and nuance of his backstory, and how his past traumas shape his journey from Jedi to Sith Lord.

    Anakin Skywalker’s many flaws offer valuable lessons for D&D character creation, as they highlight how events and choices can transform a character throughout a campaign—sometimes for better, sometimes for worse.

  • Craft an Epic Character Backstory with a Solo D&D Adventure!

    I often use solo gameplay to develop a character’s backstory, but I also enjoy it as an activity in and of itself. This is probably due to its similarity to choose-your-own-adventure books, which I have fond memories of reading.

    I believe solo Dungeons & Dragons games are often underrated in the TTRPG community. While the roleplaying element can feel diminished when playing alone, the real advantage lies in the limitless potential for creativity—allowing you to craft your own unique story.

    People play solo games for various reasons, but I find them especially useful, and perhaps even practical, when preparing for a new game. If I have the time, I enjoy taking my character on a brief adventure before the campaign starts to establish a solid understanding of who they are.

    In this video, I’ll also introduce the Solo Adventurer’s Toolbox, a fantastic resource that guides you through running your own solo game.

  • Writing a Perfect Character Death in Dungeons & Dragons

    I examine the process of crafting and roleplaying a meaningful character death in Dungeons & Dragons, which serves as an important developmental moment for both players and Dungeon Masters.

    I provide strategies for improvising a compelling death scene, especially when it occurs unexpectedly and catches everyone off guard.

    Additionally, I break down the various forms of death a character may experience, including:

    • Physical death: The most literal form, occurring when a character’s life ends. I discuss how to effectively write and roleplay this type of death.
    • Emotional death: A significant transformation in a character’s life, often marked by the loss of a loved one or the collapse of a long-held dream.
    • Psychological death: A shift in a character’s personality, typically induced by trauma, which fundamentally alters their behavior, values, and perspective on the world.

    Finally, I address the aftermath of a character’s death, focusing on how to navigate this transition when resurrection is not immediately possible or is considered only in the distant future. I offer suggestions for how players can approach these situations thoughtfully within their game.

  • The Making Of Ravenovia | A Short Story Of Strahd’s Mother

    I want to explore the complex relationship between Ravenovia, Lysaga, and Barov, and how it influenced the Strahd we all know and… dislike. Using Rosemary’s Baby as a starting point, I draw inspiration for my psychological horror novella titled Ravenovia.

    The first five chapters function as a short story, which I’m sharing in this video. Staying true to my own advice, I’ve kept these chapters largely unedited. When starting any project, it’s important to keep moving forward and resist the temptation to rewrite everything as you go.

  • The Armoury | How I write a Dungeons & Dragons Campaign

    Join me on an epic journey back to the Tudor era with a Dungeons & Dragons twist! I’ll walk you through the process of crafting an unforgettable D&D adventure. This chapter features The Quiet Armoury. Will the players uncover the hidden secrets of the Tower of London’s mysterious armoury? And, more importantly, will they manage to save Anne Boleyn in time?

  • Transform Your D&D Ideas Into Bestselling Novels

    Are you a Dungeons & Dragons game writer or homebrew game master aiming to turn your epic campaigns into bestselling novels? (Dream big!) In this video, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of transforming your D&D ideas into a novel. Yes, you read that correctly.

    I’ll cover character development, points of view, worldbuilding, plotting, and outlining, specifically for fantasy stories inspired by your homebrew RPGs. As I’m halfway through writing my own novel, I can offer practical advice about the writing process and share insights on how to avoid some of the mistakes I’ve made along the way.

    Whether you’re an experienced writer or just starting out, my tips are accessible to everyone.

  • Alien Romulus: Is It The Perfect Dungeon?

    Alien Romulus is the perfect Dungeons & Dragons setting for your next one-shot or campaign. When creating an Alien Romulus 5e game, think about incorporating memorable NPCs, exciting plot twists, and an immersive atmosphere.

    No matter your playing or GMing experience level, if you’re looking to write your first TTRPG, this exploration will motivate you to take the plunge and use the Alien Romulus narrative as a tool for your game sessions.

  • Tips From a Copywriter | Use Historical Lore For World Building

    Want to know how to create compelling DnD lore using historical inspiration — without the stress? I offer valuable tips on incorporating history, like the reign of Henry VIII and his complicated relationship with Anne Boleyn, and of course his favourite statesman Thomas Cromwell.

    These insights help you craft rich narratives that will captivate your players. Join me as I guide you through weaving history into your DnD lore, making your games more immersive and thrilling. Let’s get started!