When planning a one-shot or even a full-blown campaign, the tools at your disposal are numerous. Making sure to bring forth an exciting adventure with the right tools is what will be the key to elevating your player’s experience.
I would rather not just do a “top tools” article, but instead present it in such a way that shows exactly how I plan a game. From the beginning at whatever bar they find themselves in to the end where the BBEG sits menacingly on their throne.
These are the most commonly used tools on my belt that can help transform a Dungeons and Dragons game.
Roll for Inspiration
How do you start a Dungeons and Dragons game? The first step is figuring out what adventure or journey you want your players to go on. One of the most innovative websites that all Dungeon Masters should check out, would be –
Dungeon Masters guild is overflowing with content. One such thing that makes this website truly remarkable is the fact it is stuffed with homebrew ideas. An issue for DM’s constantly will be having writer’s block or needing something on the fly. If you have a chance be sure to give this website a beholder amount of attention.
The Best Fantasy Name Generator
We can be honest with ourselves here. At first, crafting names and creating characters seem like an overflowing cauldron with no end of stopping in sight. This is until you have to quickly make 15 names for a scrimmage between thugs who will soon be forgotten.
This is where FantasyNameGenerators.com comes in with a randomized and much larger cauldron that makes my cauldron look dented and barely passing as last years model.
In fantasy name generators alone, this website boasts 165 different categories and are not just limited to the whimsical. You will be able to find randomized categories ranging from Pegasus names to mutant species names.
With FantasyNameGenerators.com, you will be able to find names in other segments as well. Places, locations, real names, and descriptions, can be at your fingertips with a few simple clicks.
A Cartographer’s Dream Website
Don Don Donnnn… Donjon! Donjon.com boasts a wide array of generators as well. One of the legendary tools this website has would have to be the dungeon generator.
Creating intricate maps that your players will enjoy is a must for any dungeon crawling they hope to endure. Donjon has it set up will ensure that even last-minute maps will surpass expectations. This is in tandem with a wide range of variables to back it up.
Donjon gives everything from multi-layered dungeons, wandering monsters, loot to be found, and descriptions that will be sure to give you chills.
Another runner up that is often used at the table would be our Map Maker for TTRPGs. This tool is perfect for any Dungeon Master that need to plan out their maps for their next game.
Check out the Map Maker here!
Whos Turn is it Again?
A question that you will no longer have to continually answer with this DM tool. For all of those sheet nerds out there, the Initiative Tracker For Dungeons and Dragons shows exactly how easy it can be to run a fight. An initiative order tracking is a guarantee, but that is not all that is included with this intuitive google sheet.
Check out the Initiative Tracker here!
Other features you can expect will be:
-Keeps track of health
-Tracks damage dealt
-Shows what state your enemies are in. Green shows healthy, yellow shows hurt, and red shows bloodied.
-Shows what enemies are alive or still kicking
All automatically with our easy point-and-click buttons!
Ambience – The Ultimate Tool At Your Disposal!
What makes a Dungeons and Dragons game feel alive? The more senses you can include in your game and world-building, the more the players will feel surrounded.
This spotlight has to go to Pocket Bard on this one. This app has saved me numerous times. Specifically when my players go off on their adventures and there is not enough time to prepare a soundtrack.
The innovative platform showcases how with some minor adjustments of a slider, the whole scenery can change in an instant. With it continually being updated, there seems to be to be no end in sight (or hearing?).
Find Your Next Adventure Here
Connect with like-minded adventurers, discuss strategies, share your latest campaigns, and find inspiration from fellow players. Join us today and become part of our magical world!
The Tool to Rule Them All
Probably one of the first TTRPG websites tools that I was able to dive into, Owlbear.rodeo is the culmination of all the tools listed above. If you are new to Owlbear, then I highly suggest taking a look at it as soon as possible.
Whenever I make a Dungeons and Dragons game, this is always the last of my to-do list but one of my top priorities. Being able to bring together all the components listed above is as easy as a wizard casting fireball in a crowded bar.
Dungeon Masters can import maps, which then can be used online with the whole party. Easily sharable with a link that they provide. It comes preloaded with a hefty amount of icons, or you can upload your own!
The maps used can be animated, and will automatically create grids (which can easily be edited to any map.
Closing Remarks
At the end of a game, it is up to the DM what works the best for them. The amazing concept that is Dungeons and Dragons can be used to create stories in a literal infinite capacity.
Using paper and pencil, or a multitude of online aspects, the tools that you use should work for you the DM. More importantly, should envelope and create a fantastical space for your players.
If you liked this article, check out Everything You Need To Know About the 2024 Player’s Handbook!
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