A step-by-step guide to running your first session

You may have come to GM 101 having never run a game, and maybe even now it seems daunting. That’s why we created this for you.

We recommend starting with a one-shot adventure, which has a limited scope and is easy to manage. You can always extend it into a longer adventure or even a full-on campaign if you wish. Setting achievable goals is key to building confidence!

Part mad-libs, part vision board, the roadmap to session one breaks the process down into steps you can tackle. Print it out, fill it out, and hang it where it will inspire you!

How to use it

  1. Set a goal for when you will run a game. Give yourself a comfortable timeframe, but pick a month that feels achievable.

  2. Choose a system. We expect most people have D&D 5e in mind, but if you're worried about knowing all the rules, why not use Roll Some d20s, the system you practiced in the workshop?

  3. Choose who you’ll invite to play with you. Reach out to your friends, local gaming groups, or even consider joining a convention in your area to find players interested in joining your game.

  4. Dungeonstorm! You’ve already done this, it’s super fun, and the challenge is going to be not getting carried away! Fill in the adventure summary to use in your pitch

  5. Pitch the adventure to the players and see who’s into it. When you’ve got your group together…

  6. Run the game! Take charge as the Game Master and guide your players through the adventure you've crafted. Embrace the role and enjoy the collaborative storytelling experience.

  7. Let us know how you did it! We would love to hear about your experience. Share your achievements, challenges, and any insights you gained from running the game at academy@bringingfire.com or on our discord!