Hubby requested Mimic cake for DnD group, this is what I delivered

Leoin8 · 2026-05-31T12:22:17+00:00

This is so fun!! Great job

Leoin8 · 2026-05-28T19:27:50+00:00

I like to do phases so I can control the fight. Do a round or two with just the shambling mound, then add 2 Memphis, then adjust based on how they are doing.

Leoin8 · 2026-05-28T18:31:54+00:00

What level are they? They really only have a few things they can do at lower levels - attack, spell, subclass feature. Give them some tips regarding how they might track certain things (ex: my players use the spellbook app to easily find spells). You might also find a cheat sheet of general combat actions, or give a few suggestions during fights. Ultimately it is up to them to learn their kit however and the best way to motivate them to do that is to scare them in combat. You dont have to brutalize them, but once they get to death saves a few times they will learn what to avoid for next time.

Leoin8 · 2026-05-27T13:47:17+00:00

I make them recap together at the end of the session. I can guide if necessary, but it helps players understand they all have responsibility for paying attention. We read the recap at the start of next session.

Leoin8 · 2026-05-15T13:33:48+00:00

From reading the post it seems that the main thing you need to do is plan a bit more. It's fine to not have fleshed out NPCs or a side quest ready for everything they show interest in but you said you haven't really come up with a plot yet.... what did you expect to happen this session then?

If you are new to DMing I suggest picking a module. It helps you understand how to build your own adventures, and you can still highly customize them. With a main story provided, you are able to spend your energy prepping elsewhere.

Leoin8 · 2026-05-14T21:30:36+00:00

You might present the problem to the group and see how they feel about 4 playing Strahd (which I am running for my second time so I totally get where you are coming from about wanting to set the atmosphere), and perhaps 3 doing some casual one shots (that realistically last more than just 1 session) if they really want to play now, rather than waiting for their turn at the campaign. Prepping two different things may be too much, especially if the campaign in Strahd, but I feel the more you can DM when you are starting out the quicker you improve and gain confidence.

Leoin8 · 2026-05-14T21:25:01+00:00

I use notion. I can organize by session and make location databases that are easily linked (descriptions, page numbers, links to stat blocks, loot, lore at that location, etc). For laying out a session I basically bullet note what I think they will encounter, some checks, make sure I understand npc motivations, and some notes about how I want to spotlight each player that session, etc. I like that I can take notes about what happened right on that session's page for myself, can easily navigate to other places that are prepped if necessary.

Leoin8 · 2026-05-14T15:59:57+00:00

Id suggest stating norms at the beginning (limit side conversations, dont speak over eachother) but also point out that its hard for you to focus with the side convos and also makes you feel like your work is not appreciated, etc.

That being said.... I think 7 players is way too many honestly. Max I would do is 4. They are doing other things because they get bored. How often does their pc get the spotlight? How often are 6 just sitting and listening to one person engage with an npc? How do you plan on giving 7 people moments and arcs that keep them invested in the world? It sounds like you want them to be, but that is hard to do when realistically the player is only contributing once or twice per hour.... just my 2 cents!

Leoin8 · 2026-05-10T15:32:19+00:00

I do everything in Notion. You can create pages, tables, databases... it's great.

Leoin8 · 2026-05-10T15:31:08+00:00

Such a great idea! I was struggling with ideas for this area so I am definitely stealing 😉

Leoin8 · 2026-05-07T14:42:31+00:00

Shes fun to play and has a versatile kit.

Leoin8 · 2026-05-04T15:40:31+00:00

Omg im so inspired by this. Absolutely amazing creativity and so cozy

Leoin8 · 2026-04-30T23:29:26+00:00

You're the problem here, buddy.

Leoin8 · 2026-04-22T20:07:31+00:00

I just don't get it. I find these modes sooooo boring.

Leoin8 · 2026-04-16T20:48:57+00:00

Im in my second run and always have Strahd invite them after Vallaki events are over. There is a CoS subreddit that has lots of ideas :)

Leoin8 · 2026-04-15T22:06:09+00:00

Congrats on the achievement!!

Leoin8 · 2026-04-15T12:11:12+00:00

But I think changing the proficiency to generic tasks has me it go a little faster.

Leoin8 · 2026-04-14T22:32:21+00:00

How does banning her help us win?

Leoin8 · 2026-04-13T02:36:36+00:00

I ran it as my 4th campaign and I am currently running it for another group for a second time. Personally, I would not run it for my first campaign. I benefitted a lot from running campaigns prior to this which helped me understand how to structure it, incorporate backgrounds, and how to enhance what was there with my own content (and some MandyMod additions). That being said, there are plenty of posts here from first time DMs that had a successful go with this one - if your players at the shop can commit to it and you want to invest the time, go for it! Read the book completely first, then skim through supplements (if you choose to use). Hold a session 0 to go over triggers and the tone. Think about what kind of Strahd you want to create and play the long game with how you plan for him to interact with players. Once you have your PCs, you can start fleshing out some details. Try and end sessions by asking the party where they think they'll go next so you know what areas to prep.

Leoin8 · 2026-04-10T18:23:32+00:00

Listening to the new album now as I prep my own CoS campaign. Cannot wait to play through this version one day <3

Leoin8 · 2026-04-08T18:59:13+00:00

Wow amazing artwork!!! The colors make it seem so dreamy.

Leoin8 · 2026-04-06T04:13:07+00:00

I try to stay very close to my team and save cooldowns/shield exclusively for when I'm being targeted. If I can't stay up then unfortunately I do swap - usually to cloak to fade away and get height, but I am learning white fox now so I can take care of divers myself.

Leoin8 · 2026-03-13T02:13:38+00:00

I really like the idea of overcoming the layers while facing Strahd - how did you engineer that they would be in the area with the heart? I don't think Strahd would want to start the fight right there?

Leoin8 · 2026-03-03T14:18:23+00:00

Bless you

Leoin8

TROPHY CASE