Being a Dungeon Master for Beginners
In this one time class, learners will discover the basics of how to run a tabletop roleplaying game like Dungeons and Dragons.
Matthew Messana
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(201)
What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
In this one-time course, learners will find the tools they need to run a tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) like Dungeons and Dragons. When playing a TTRPG, people typically play a single character. These players get to be another person in another world! But where does this world come from? Who inhabits that world? What happens when they do something? This is the job of the Dungeon Master (or Game Master in many games outside D&D). Here, learners will learn how to be "everything else" in the world. But there is more to running a game than being "everything else." So, we will talk about several topics including the following: - Knowing the basic game rules (You don't have to know everything!) - Adjudicating the rules (The Golden Rule of DMing: Rule in the players' favor.) - How to run a Session 0 (Setting expectations at the table is the surest way to ensure everyone enjoys the game.) If you have a specific issue or question you'd like to talk about, check out the "Dungeons & Dragons: Dungeon Master Club!" I can more easily answer any specific questions/issues there.
Learning Goals
Students will learn the basics of running a table top roleplaying game.
Other Details
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2020
4.9
201reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hello! My name is Matthew. I am a cartographer, calligrapher and Game Master who teaches what he knows best: drawing fantasy maps and how to run/play tabletop role playing games (TRPGs) like Dungeons and Dragons.
Over the years, I have taught numerous topics including English as a Second Language and religious classes at a local church. I have also volunteered time watching children for summer programs and non-profit organizations. I've learned it is better for me to act as a guide, not simply a lecturer. Running a game and drawing are journeys to be taken and cannot be learned without practice. In these classes, learners will be given the tools they need to learn and practice their craft.
The classes you will see here will be focused around two topics: drawing fantasy maps and running tabletop role playing games.
Maps:
I have been drawing fantasy maps seriously for a number of years. In that time, I've found the act of drawing a world inspires me to fill it with story. I find myself asking questions like, "Who lives in this forest?" or "Why would someone put a city here?" I hope to inspire learners to not only learn how to draw a map, but feed their curiosity and creativity.
Running Tabletop Role Playing Games:
I started running tabletop role playing games almost immediately after the 5th Edition rules of Dungeons and Dragons were released in 2014. I have run home-brew games (entirely made up by me and the players), official modules/campaigns, and Adventurer's League events. I have taught many people how to play the game and ran in person, online and at conventions. It can be difficult but I find running a game to be the most rewarding experience and I prefer it to being a regular player. I hope to share with learners how fun being a Game Master can be!Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$18
per classMeets once
55 min
Completed by 90 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-16
2-6 learners per class
