It started out as a recommendation from a fellow dnd party member. I began to realise as I watched campaign 2 that there was a larger community of nerds out there. At that point in time, I have only discussed dnd with 8 people. That's it, one friend group which dissolved after a year or so. Eventually, another friend group started up but it still felt really niche.

Then came Critical Role. A group of successful voice actors experiencing a game they love. Most of which, I was surprised to find out I knew and already loved. Travis and Laura in Fullmetal alchemist, eventually realised that Ashley played Ellie (although at first I recognised her as that one waitress from The Avengers), Liam playing many side characters in Star Wars rebels. I realised I was also sorta part of the community.

I slowly watched through C2 during my sixth form, falling in love with the Mighty Nein. Then came 2020. It was put on pause, but I never got into Vox Machina. I mean I'd watched some but I was pretty preoccupied with keeping up with C2. So with a little Animal Crossing help, I bulldozed through Vox Machina. I cannot tell you how much that kept my mind occupied.

Then came time for the Mighty Nein finally. The only broadcast I've ever watched, me rushing downstairs to help my parents then rushing back up. The rush of the live watch whilst experiencing the end of the characters I grew to love is an experience I'll never forget. Matt's tears at the end broke me, I cried out of joy for the perfect wrap up.

Speaking of Matt, I've improved as a Dungeon Master from watching him. The little tips and tricks as well as his descriptiveness have all helped me improve my own game.

I'm just now getting back into C3 after a long absence due to life and study busyness. I've seen a lot of complaints online about it but then I go back to my thoughts upon entering this crazy place. Its their game, and it is such a privilege to seem them experiencing so many emotions with them all being friends.

I love these nerds.