gm-and-dm-ideas:

Getting started

The beginning of a campaign is, in my humble opinion, the hardest part to write. There are numerous cliché openings that you can use, such as the typical “You’re in a tavern, and a dark stranger tells you about (insert McGuffin here).”

These familiar plot prompts (or “plompts” for short and stupid) are fine for beginners players or DMs. But if any of your participants have been around the writer’s block at least once, they’ll want something a bit more creative. Something that immediately grabs their attention and invests them in the plot.

Think outside the box on this. You’ll need some intimidating but ultimately simple components to get things kicked off.

1. The World

Landmasses, cities, towns, organized societies, and a pantheon of deities. You can write your own or use one of the many that have already been written.

2. The Prompt

What brings these characters together? Are they just meeting? Or have they known each other already? If so, talk with your players to establish the pre-existing bonds and backstories. If you’re having trouble with this, feel free to message me. I’ve got a billion ideas I don’t have the time to use.

3. The Accord

What keeps this group together? Experienced players will usually take care of this themselves (unless they’re just antagonizing you), but first-timers may need a push. In that case, give them a good reason to stick around. I consider this the most difficult part, and it’s something I still occasionally struggle with, so don’t be upset if you do too.

Good luck!