My FIRST video on this Channel! Woah... you could say its my "Video 0"! 💜 Become a Patron: www.patreon.com/thedungeoncoach 🔴 Become a TH-cam Member: th-cam.com/channels/z8xkTADYdRQR7GP-f2PjOA.htmljoin ▶️ Dungeon Coach Homebrew Playlist: th-cam.com/play/PLMzshUEANAtOovJb_pr27pwLOTR3nn19g.html
This is probably the best "how to run a session 0" vídeo I've seen. It's also funny to listen to you say you had 33 subscribers and that your goal was 100 when now you're over 5k in under a year. Congratulations coach, you deserve it.
Miguel Rebollo omg that’s crazy to see you reference that, I forgot about that lol! Thank you too! It was my first video, but I really put a lot of thought into it (like all my videos) but glad to see it’s holding up over time!
It's so cool how I just stumbled upon this video, and you mention having 33 subscribers and how "I shouldn't be shouting out the DM Lair because I'm such a small channel and he's huge" I look on the recomendations side of the screen and see the collab you did with him, and I look at your sub count and it says 54k... Dude you've been making quality content from day 1!!
Watching to the end of this video in December 2022 is a trip. "Our goal as a channel is to get 100 subscribers. That means we get verified and we have our own TH-cam URL!" Dungeon Coach has 45.9K subscribers today! Wow. Everyone starts somewhere.
I’ve been DMing for almost 3 years and the game I run, we never had a session zero (we were all new to DND/TTRPG). This weekend I’m going to be running a proper session zero for the first time and I’m so excited to use these tips! Thanks Coach!
This is a great video. It's clear that the DM knows what he's doing and you're going to have fun in his world and at his sessions. Every first time GM should watch.
D&D Homebrew thanks man! That’s the whole point is to have fun together and be on the same page. This is where I see what my players want to play, and brainstorm up the campaign together, like you talked about in your video! Another reason why I loved yours so much!
Okay I officially love this channel. I love the absolute middle finger this channel gives to always respecting conventional wisdom. If you want to play a campaign with three warlocks, do it! Do you want to talk to your players and add some Homebrew that may or may not be consistent solely for the fact that they want to try it? Do it! Don't like the Mechanics for determining stats? Change! If we don't like it we can always change it later. So far this channel gives me the vibe that we're willing to try anything, and tradition does not limit the type of fun we have.
Pretty solid second video. I think it's a really good overview of some of the basic stuff to settle in a session 0. I especially appreciate the importance you placed on the social contract and general expectations for the campaign as a whole. Too few DMs really take the time to actively listen to their players and the result is DMs getting pissy because the players "derailed" everything. So setting those expectations and IMPORTANTLY being able to be flexible as the DM is super important. Have an awesome story in mind? Sweet! Pitch it to your players, but if they don't seem engaged with the idea don't be afraid to write the idea down in your "idea journal" (which every DM should absolutely have) for a later campaign. One thing I really liked was that you threw the idea out for waiting for character backstory and working the overall campaign backwards based around those themes. That is one of my favorite things to do in my own homebrew setting. Bit of a laugh though, as soon as you mentioned it my thought was "Yeeeeahhh, that's a lot of fun but holy crap it's a lot more work on the DMs part". Then you almostly immediately said exactly that. The only thing I would add to that particular point from my own DM experience is that a character backstory driven storyline also requires a lot of player buy in and so is definitely something to be mentioned in the "managing expectation" part of session 0. As a rule, this type of campaign (usually) is best suited to a group of players that are already friends outside of the game. Lastly, as an idea for a future video, maybe do a "How do I find people to play with/run for?" Obviously, there's subreddits and forums galore, but (and i know a lot of D&D players have strong feelings on this topic) finding a local game shop that runs Adventurer's League is a pretty solid starting point. AL definitely has it's drawbacks and feels super restrictive to those of us that come from homebrew backgrounds. All that being said, 2 of the 3 home games that I'm involved (playing 1 DMing 1) are 8 people strong (DM included) and are made up of people I met while DMing/playing AL. Meet cool people that you have good table chemistry with and then invite them to your home game where you can throw of the "shackles" of AL play.
Wibbles I LOVE the idea journal (I have an entire app I use that I want to show as part of a “DM tools” video; it’s called Trello). And I love the “managing expectations” comment it is so huge to have the players add into the world too... it make for a FAR better game! And you made me think of something to put in my “social contracts” video of the players having the mind set of immersing themselves in the game and having fun, if your expectations are very narrow and specific you’ll have a bad time because you set that bar too high. Definitely talk with your DM so you’re on the same page, but I agree that being friends already before hand helps the chemistry of the table a ton! I totally agree with the problem of finding people to play with, I see all the time people that would totally play if they just had others interested... and then there’s the 2nd issue of one of those players being a DM. Which is why I wanna follow that video up with a intro DM crash course on how you can TOTALLY take on the mantle of DM for a new group and be totally fine! Great feedback! I’m so glad I ran into you at Buckeys!! Haha
@@TheDungeonCoach just found you, so I'm going through your videos lol & one of our players is going to DM for a bit on the side to give our DM a break and chance to play, so you've been very helpful with his prep to make sure he doesn't stress out
Super helpful content. Getting ready to run my first Session 0 leading into my first long-term campaign (when WBtW is released!), and I'll absolutely be implementing tip 0.
Been watching a few videos on your channel content playlist, and I gotta say you might just have my new favorite D&D start-up channel. I always keep an eye out for the next new take on coverage, I can honestly say I have not seen a channel look so promising since the early days of WebDM or Dungeon Dudes. I love your take on mechanics whether tweaking or homebrewing. I’m super excited to see what you have coming down the pipeline & I’m itching to see your revolutionary game-changers you hinted at in that DC tweaking video. Best of luck in all your future endeavors!
Tristen Covarrubias YEA! Thanks for sharing the excitement with me and it’s still crazy to hear that as little ol me I have a very different style of play and I’m so glad it’s well received!!!
@TheDungeonCoach your kickstarter for DC20 just ended. You raised over 2 million. I wanted to leave this message here, where you started, because I thought it would be a funny Easter egg. I also believe it’s important to remember where you came from. I wasn’t here at the beginning but I’m excited to see where you go and I’m along for the ride now. I’m not sure if you will see this or if anyone else will. If you DO see this message - from one Dad to another - go and hug your wife and kids! The DC20 community is behind you. You should be proud of yourself. You did it. Keep working hard but enjoy the ride! Cheers! 💜🐧💜
Nice edits! The production value looks incredible! Also, thanks for the tip! I'll make sure to use them in my new campaign I am starting up soon! It's greatly appreciated
Pyro Master Thanks! I’ve been doing a lot of research on how to step up the quality of the channel. Glad to hear it’s paying off! Let me know how your session 0 goes!
Dom Minniti haha you are the first person to make that connection/ comparison... and I LOVE IT! There are definitely overlaps and I coach / DM the same in a lot of ways!
@@TheDungeonCoach what exactly do you coach, if you dont mine me asking. I'm also impressed on what you cram into a video. Sometimes youtubers split things into minimum viable chunks to get as many videos as possible.
Dom Minniti I know what you mean! But I try not to do that and just give y’all good stuff!! I got plenty to give! Haha I coach pole vaulting (that crazy track and field event lol)
Rewatching this and I'm really liking the less edited, less performing, more conversational feel of this. Missing that quality in the newer videos I think. I really LOVE how your organizing and presenting your information in the newer ones, but they do feel more like a presentation, you know? Also, really like your session zero list, definitely adding some of these points to mine!
Benjamin Harl I am going to go back and watch this, literally my first official video, so I’ll definitely be looking for what you’re saying before I film my next one! Thanks for the feedback as usual!
@@TheDungeonCoach happy to give it friend! 👍 Keep up the good work! Your upload schedule is inspiring, considering how well thought out your content is.
Thanks for the tips I'm about to run my first ever session 0 next weak and these tips will really help me. I'm not a new DM but I just have never run a session 0 before so thanks man so glad you showed up in my feed. Will definitely hit that subscribe button.
All of this is good, the only one I deliberate is including the players in the construction of the narrative campaign. I'm all for having their backstories establish a location in the world etc, but as a writer, I am very possessive over the narrative content so I can ensure a consistent quality. I don't mean backstories--by all means: but co-constructing the world and primary issues seems great if a DM doesn't want to do that work, doesn't care that much about the narrative, or has players who absolutely want to do that. But for me, I want to deliver an amazing over-arching narrative, and even one hand in the pot is too many for my tastes.
Wow, after watching this video I feel like I should have a second session 0 for the things I missed (which was a fair ammount). Literally had the session 0 two days ago
Haha Myself personally I actually like to have a session 0.5 and you could do flash backs check out the video on 7 ways to start your campaign and at the end I talk about "Flashbacks" you could just tell your players, hey before we get fully going lets do ___________ AND at the end well play a little sneak peek part of the game wether its combat or flash backs.... or a mix of flashback combat!!! haha
@@TheDungeonCoach I also mised out on the "Topics to avoid", what they want with their characters/the campaign & discussing/deciding specifically what rule variations will be in effect. It was really only world/pantheon description & character creation. :/
@@TheDungeonCoach I try my best. Pretty nervous as a first time DM, especially as it's gonna be in my own world I made. I feel safe in that I know the world really well, but it's intimidating to not have some "real" campaign or story.
@@TheDungeonCoach It definitely seems like fun to play with, is it something your players can give input on? Like have you ever had a player come to you with an idea for a secret on their character that they want to play with?
PWBI for sure! One of my characters in my game I’m showing the behind the scenes of in my live streams said he wants to be a warlock posing as a paladin... HUGE secret AND he has a pact to a patron that he made then got amnesia... so he doesn’t even know what the pact he made waS!!! So many secrets!! Muahaha 😈
Love the channel! I’ve only been DMing for a short time myself, but I came up with a session 0 idea that I implemented in a campaign I’m currently running and I thought it was pretty cool and I’d love to hear your take on it. This really only works when the DM has a pretty good idea about what the overall campaign is going to be about or at least have some main quest elements already in mind. In my case I knew that the campaign was going to take place in a world with hundreds of island nations that the PCs would explore over the course of their adventures. My issue; how was I going to get these five PCs with vastly different backstories all onto the same small island to meet and start their adventure. I know I could of come up with something myself but I wanted them involved and I also wanted a little dice rolling at the end of the session to really get everyone into character before our first real session. So I told each player to roll a d20 six times and write down all their results. I then one by one role played with each player different situations they came across ultimately ending with them coming to the island. As we went I would describe a scene that they were witnessing like, “The merchant ship you bought passage on is suddenly attacked by pirates! What do you do?” “I fight back!” And then I’d tell the player to pick one of the 6 numbers they previously rolled to apply to how well they succeed at what they want to do. Once picked that number would get erased and I would continue that player’s story until they used up all 6 numbers. I liked having the players know beforehand all six of their numbers so then it allowed them to role play their character in these situations more how they would want them to go, but still force them to make some choices and have a bit of luck with dice involved too. My players really liked it and it led to better scenarios for how they individual arrived at this island then I ever would have come up with by myself. One player ended up having to swim to the island following their ship being destroyed, another drifted ashore unconscious in a life boat, and one of them ended up being a bounty hunter hunting down one of the other players who was a runaway princess! I really liked the idea and I’m honestly trying to think of some more opportunities to use the same system later in the campaign as well. After watching some of your other videos on the subject, I think it could work well for some solo downtime adventures and activities. Let me know what you think, I’d love some feedback! And thanks for such an awesome channel! For new DMs like me it’s been invaluable!
Been subbed for a while and just wanted to comment good vibes and prompts for what you have built and shared on your channel. You end this getting pumped and hopeful about hitting 100 subs and we can tell your genuine in you enthusiasm and love of sharing this game. 💪🤓👍
Awesome channel & video . I just found you and subscribed . Nice top ten list . This is the first video i watched . TH-cam recommended a different video but i like to go to the channels home page and watch the oldest video and than the newest video for comparison .
Hey man! I had a session 0 not too long ago and used some of the points you outline here so thanks a lot! I was wondering what you mean when you say "bonus stuff" for filling the character template and/or interweaving player character backstories.
Oudwin Thanks for checking back in, I love hearing updates from y’all! And it’s funny you ask about intertwining character backstories! I JUST made a video on just that! th-cam.com/video/4QczekJGEWc/w-d-xo.html Check it out and see if that answers your questions! If not let me know!!
@@TheDungeonCoach so, when you say "bonus stuff" in this video, you really mean that you will incorporate player backstories into the world and campaign plot ? Ps: I had already seen that video :P
Oudwin Hahahah oooooo then what point are you talking about? Is there a time stamp you can tell me so I can watch that part and give you the context! Sorry for the miss communication! Haha
@@TheDungeonCoach The Dungeon Coach no worries I should have let with the time stamp: 12:40 I was wondering if you could give some examples of what you mean by "bonus stuff". Also I would love some examples from a campaign of yours of the "lore only they know" and the "secret". ( This is from "tip 0: a secret" 14:30 PS: so far I find all your videos really thought provoking so I don't plan on missing any :)
Oudwin Oooooooo ok lets do this! “Bonus stuff” = extra proficiency (skill/ tool/ language), items they have from this awesome backstory, I’ve added mechanics to the game of these “twins” who can speak telepathically to each other which I gave them as this “Bonus stuff” I’ve even done gold before. Really it’s whatever wild make sense for the cool backstory they give you
Great video. I GM Pathfinder and have had to be absent a few times. It’s never easy and it definitely brings the group down. Wish I saw this before. But I’m doing a session 0 again on Sunday so I’m excited
I like your tips and your presentation to camera seems very confident and professional. I also admire your goal to provide quick and quality information that consolidates what you have learned from spending a lot of time learning from other channels and your own experiences. But, if I may offer some constructive criticism, in my opinion you're not really reaching the "quick" aspect with many of your videos being over 10 mins, some quite a bit over. Also, it really feels like you're not condensing the information much since you're very talkative about each point. And most gratuitously (to me), we don't need the intro that prefaces exactly what the video title tells us, then the title card with the music, and then after that another intro spiel about you and your channel. I personally think that just one of those three intro sequences will be just fine, or perhaps the title card and half your intro speech to speed things along. This last point might just be a nit pick, but it bothers me a bit considering your channel intro video and seemingly your channel slogan is about providing quick easy to pick up content. Just my two cents to help you out, because I like what you're trying to do! Have a good one man!
I always appreciate constructive criticism! And props to you for doing it so well (internet can tend to be blunt and toxic lol) So I agree with so much of what you say and its a tough balancing act for me to pull off in the best way possible. Balancing length of video with quality of information. I have an 18 min DM video... which is definitly not quick... but in my opinion is the most consolidated new DM tips video on TH-cam. Since its such a big topic, I have searched for all that info and its out there kind of... but across multiple videos from different people over an hour long with extra fluff in there too. So id say 18 is pretty solid. But there lies the dilemma, do I chop off things that are in my opinion VITAL?? I chose not to. But my main goal is to provide a one stop shop for people (eventually... with more videos lol) to come to for jam packed info. This video is also my first actual video ever (since my first video was just me introducing the channel) I would love for you to watch my most recent and see if I have gotten better at these things. So when you say i talk about some points gratuitously, that probably comes from me thinking its that important and I dont want to just hit it and move on. The into i say at the start is a "TH-cam video best practice" and part of what I'm learning to "hook" the audience at the beginning, and the intro card and music is to provide a familiar experience/ branding every time you see a video of mine. Then laying out what the talking points are helps people know what exactly is coming (stick around to the end for _____) Lastly, TH-cam doesnt like 1-9 minute videos as much as 10+ min videos, so there is a better chance of my channel getting out there to grow it if my videos are 10:01 long if you see what I mean. So once I have "made it" I can definitely see myself making videos under that, especially if the topic is a "quick and simple" one TLDR those are all things I have done research on that are supposed to help with videos online BUT with ALL that said, I TOTALLY see your point and hear you bro! These points you make, even though I have reasons, I can ALWAYS improve on them/ see what I can do for a better experience for more people and find that right balance. SO: what I have taken away/ appreciate the tips on 1. Intro statements to the video should not just be a repeat of the title of the video and more informative 2. get into it and into the MEAT of the video asap 3. constantly check myself on streamlining things to be shorter Thank you man, and I apologize for the long comment... especially with the topic of "shot and sweet" lol, but its just because I really do appreciate it!
@@TheDungeonCoach Yeah, I understand the struggle of shortening such broad topics from my own struggles trying to cohesively and concisely explain my own personal system to new and old players who have never seen a game like it. The only thing I can suggest to help with that is to split bigger topics (like dming, probably the biggest ttrpg topic that I don't think can be satisfyingly and usefully abbreviated by much unfortunately) into smaller pieces, but that's not always easy to do. I actually only watched your dm tips #1 and this video so far, (since the other video topics didn't interest me since I'm not a fan of D&D and have no interest in playing it or running it anymore) before leaving you my critique. So I might have to come back to check out your newer ones. I say fair enough to all your rebuttals to my criticisms, as I am somewhat familiar with the youtube format and platform success necessities. I get the need for branding and marketability to get spread to a wider audience, as well as the idea of keeping the viewer around until the end of the video with a "coming up..." kind of start. These are some of the things that have come up in my own research towards the possiblity starting a youtube channel about my game and personal preferences and tips for how to run ttrpgs in general (just not D&D specifically, lol). I guess that kind of stuff just bothers me since I'm so used to seeing the formula in every other channel's videos and in my mind it just didn't gel with your channel's theme, you know? All in all, I 100% agree with your 3 big takeaways from my criticism! Those are definitely good notes to keep in mind moving forward. God speed, man!
@@bharl7226 What game do you play?? I want to hear what it is and see if there is a video I could make that would be "neutral" one for you. Thats another "TH-cam" thing is to "niche" yourself haha. But I totally see how the youtube standard procedure goes against my own theme! Definitely gonna brainstorm on more efficient ways to flow it... writing my video script right now actually for my next one haha. Thank again man! I value your time! (and will do better at it lol)
@@TheDungeonCoach Oh it's my personal system I've been developing for a while, due to dissatisfaction with D&D and many other games. It's very unfinished and unpolished at the moment but I'm very close to starting some playtesting of the ideas in the next few of months hopefully. I'm not sure what kind of more neutral topics you could cover that would appeal to people like me, I'd have to think about that some more. Yeah that TH-cam procedure is a bit restrictive for sure. It's part of why I haven't decided whether or not to do my own channel so far. I'm really pleased to find someone who actually takes criticism well and as a way to grow and get better. Good on you, man!
Benjamin Harl dude you rock! I love the creativity you have to be bold enough to make your own system! Props to you man! I have an idea what you’d like! I have a “D&D Lite” version of the game to play with new people, that would speak to you probably lol Good luck on it and email me when you finish it! Love to see it!
The campaign I'm currently playing in used this tip, but took it one further: You know something about one of the other players, and there's also a secret about you that no one knows. Everyone knew the situation (two secrets each), but not the content of those secrets.
Good work, Alan. Some rules of mine: 1. Yes, they have to do character voices. If they say something out of character it is not canon. If I have to 20+ NPC voices, than so too shall they suffer with me. 2. Bards are broken and unbalanced; therefore, anyone wishing to play a bard must play and actual instrument. It enhances the RP dynamic and amuses me. 3. Characters with exceptionally low intelligence should talk and act like idiots and purposefully make poor decisions. This can also be attributed to low Wisdom. If still fairly new at DMing too, but it's rewarding when your players tell you how much better you are than that other guy who just runs games out of a book.
ScathingTake That’s what I want to build here is a community to share ideas on how we all do things and then let our experience and shared ideas make ALL of our games that much better! The “DC Method” on each of those: 1. I always want my PC’s to feel comfortable, so I never “force” voices, but definitely encourage it. Out of the 8 players I have between 2 campaigns only 2 really use voices and even that is only occasionally. As the DM I TRY and go big with voices so my players feel comfortable to if they want. That’s actually one thing that was on my video but cut out, talking to everyone about using voices or not. Love the input! 2. Bards are definitely takes the most Player skill to pull off with the right feel. I would have a talk for sure with anyone wanting to attempt it. Here’s my ideas for some Unique Bards: - Battle Dancer: like the Samoan tribal dancing... I think that’s what it’s called, aggressive dancing that bolsters the party - Singing enchantress - Chanting Cultist type character that mumbles chants in another language as his voice echoes through the battle field - Beautiful and inspiring dancer - Then of course there are your “classic” instrument bards I have played a Bard that wielded a while that’s hilt was a flute, he would play the flute and the tail of the whip would go ethereal and hes use to for attacks/ casting spells 3. I let my players choose how HARD they want to RP their stats. If they have an Int of 6, they could totally play it as a moron to whatever extent. But in reality a 10 Int is “average” and a 6 is only a -2 to Int... so they are only 10% below “average” So if they feel like their characters defining characteristic is “dumb” or “lacking wisdom” then that’s fine. I just don’t want to force RP on someone who doesn’t see that as the “vision” of their character. But definitely have conversations about what stats they should put where that makes the most sense for them. Thanks for the comment! This is what I want for this channel! I do have some cool systems in place for another video on how I do character creation, and a way to handle Int in general.
Keaton Tiner hahaha this was my first video ever... so seeing that back again (went and watched it when you said this) haha so crazy to see that video lol
The Dungeon Coach haha I love it I’m working on a session now set in a custom world (lots of dead drows) your video helped me decide on jumping into a .5 instead of a 0
Quick videos? It's 16 minutes. Detail isn't inherently a bad thing by any means and it's what i'd prefer, but there's a clear mismatch between your stated goal and your actual practice.
Bismuth Crystal I totally agree with you! This was my first video I ever made in TH-cam, so I’ve gotten much better at trying to do this message and jam pack videos with efficient info! I’ve also been focusing a lot on creativity too! 👍🏼
Bram Lastname Hahahaha my first video... o man! I could make such a better session 0 video now lol But I’d hate to double back and repeat a topic when there’s so much I haven’t shared yet!
Bram Lastname is have to watch it again, but from what I know there is probably a lack of energy/ confidence /my editing cuts/ even the back ground lol
@@TheDungeonCoach I think the confidence and cuts are the most notable difference. Tho I'm way less confident in front of a camera, So you still seem pretty confident to me.
My FIRST video on this Channel! Woah... you could say its my "Video 0"!
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Just subbed after watching your first video 😁 Looking forward to watching and learning more
This is probably the best "how to run a session 0" vídeo I've seen. It's also funny to listen to you say you had 33 subscribers and that your goal was 100 when now you're over 5k in under a year. Congratulations coach, you deserve it.
Miguel Rebollo omg that’s crazy to see you reference that, I forgot about that lol! Thank you too! It was my first video, but I really put a lot of thought into it (like all my videos) but glad to see it’s holding up over time!
Over 51k now ❤
It's so cool how I just stumbled upon this video, and you mention having 33 subscribers and how "I shouldn't be shouting out the DM Lair because I'm such a small channel and he's huge"
I look on the recomendations side of the screen and see the collab you did with him, and I look at your sub count and it says 54k... Dude you've been making quality content from day 1!!
Watching to the end of this video in December 2022 is a trip. "Our goal as a channel is to get 100 subscribers. That means we get verified and we have our own TH-cam URL!"
Dungeon Coach has 45.9K subscribers today! Wow. Everyone starts somewhere.
I’ve been DMing for almost 3 years and the game I run, we never had a session zero (we were all new to DND/TTRPG). This weekend I’m going to be running a proper session zero for the first time and I’m so excited to use these tips! Thanks Coach!
This is a great video. It's clear that the DM knows what he's doing and you're going to have fun in his world and at his sessions. Every first time GM should watch.
D&D Homebrew thanks man! That’s the whole point is to have fun together and be on the same page. This is where I see what my players want to play, and brainstorm up the campaign together, like you talked about in your video! Another reason why I loved yours so much!
Okay I officially love this channel.
I love the absolute middle finger this channel gives to always respecting conventional wisdom.
If you want to play a campaign with three warlocks, do it! Do you want to talk to your players and add some Homebrew that may or may not be consistent solely for the fact that they want to try it? Do it!
Don't like the Mechanics for determining stats? Change! If we don't like it we can always change it later.
So far this channel gives me the vibe that we're willing to try anything, and tradition does not limit the type of fun we have.
Pretty solid second video. I think it's a really good overview of some of the basic stuff to settle in a session 0. I especially appreciate the importance you placed on the social contract and general expectations for the campaign as a whole. Too few DMs really take the time to actively listen to their players and the result is DMs getting pissy because the players "derailed" everything. So setting those expectations and IMPORTANTLY being able to be flexible as the DM is super important. Have an awesome story in mind? Sweet! Pitch it to your players, but if they don't seem engaged with the idea don't be afraid to write the idea down in your "idea journal" (which every DM should absolutely have) for a later campaign.
One thing I really liked was that you threw the idea out for waiting for character backstory and working the overall campaign backwards based around those themes. That is one of my favorite things to do in my own homebrew setting. Bit of a laugh though, as soon as you mentioned it my thought was "Yeeeeahhh, that's a lot of fun but holy crap it's a lot more work on the DMs part". Then you almostly immediately said exactly that.
The only thing I would add to that particular point from my own DM experience is that a character backstory driven storyline also requires a lot of player buy in and so is definitely something to be mentioned in the "managing expectation" part of session 0. As a rule, this type of campaign (usually) is best suited to a group of players that are already friends outside of the game.
Lastly, as an idea for a future video, maybe do a "How do I find people to play with/run for?" Obviously, there's subreddits and forums galore, but (and i know a lot of D&D players have strong feelings on this topic) finding a local game shop that runs Adventurer's League is a pretty solid starting point. AL definitely has it's drawbacks and feels super restrictive to those of us that come from homebrew backgrounds. All that being said, 2 of the 3 home games that I'm involved (playing 1 DMing 1) are 8 people strong (DM included) and are made up of people I met while DMing/playing AL. Meet cool people that you have good table chemistry with and then invite them to your home game where you can throw of the "shackles" of AL play.
Wibbles I LOVE the idea journal (I have an entire app I use that I want to show as part of a “DM tools” video; it’s called Trello). And I love the “managing expectations” comment it is so huge to have the players add into the world too... it make for a FAR better game! And you made me think of something to put in my “social contracts” video of the players having the mind set of immersing themselves in the game and having fun, if your expectations are very narrow and specific you’ll have a bad time because you set that bar too high. Definitely talk with your DM so you’re on the same page, but I agree that being friends already before hand helps the chemistry of the table a ton!
I totally agree with the problem of finding people to play with, I see all the time people that would totally play if they just had others interested... and then there’s the 2nd issue of one of those players being a DM. Which is why I wanna follow that video up with a intro DM crash course on how you can TOTALLY take on the mantle of DM for a new group and be totally fine!
Great feedback! I’m so glad I ran into you at Buckeys!! Haha
4 years later with 66k Subscribers. Awesome Character Development. ;DD
THanks 4 the Video! You deserve your subs!
Watching this 2 years later and laughing at "Our goal is to get to 100 subscribers" 😂 I think you did one better, sir
You’re killing it!! Keep the content coming!
Fables thanks dude’ this was my first video too! Haha
@@TheDungeonCoach just found you, so I'm going through your videos lol & one of our players is going to DM for a bit on the side to give our DM a break and chance to play, so you've been very helpful with his prep to make sure he doesn't stress out
Fables that’s awesome man! And holy crap I checked out that YOU have a channel! lol
Now I’m checking YOU out lol 😂👍🏼
But for real, thank you for that!
Tip 0 is a stroke of genius. Sorry, but I’m absolutely stealing that for my future campaigns
Super helpful content. Getting ready to run my first Session 0 leading into my first long-term campaign (when WBtW is released!), and I'll absolutely be implementing tip 0.
Been watching a few videos on your channel content playlist, and I gotta say you might just have my new favorite D&D start-up channel. I always keep an eye out for the next new take on coverage, I can honestly say I have not seen a channel look so promising since the early days of WebDM or Dungeon Dudes. I love your take on mechanics whether tweaking or homebrewing. I’m super excited to see what you have coming down the pipeline & I’m itching to see your revolutionary game-changers you hinted at in that DC tweaking video. Best of luck in all your future endeavors!
Tristen Covarrubias YEA! Thanks for sharing the excitement with me and it’s still crazy to hear that as little ol me
I have a very different style of play and I’m so glad it’s well received!!!
@TheDungeonCoach your kickstarter for DC20 just ended. You raised over 2 million. I wanted to leave this message here, where you started, because I thought it would be a funny Easter egg. I also believe it’s important to remember where you came from. I wasn’t here at the beginning but I’m excited to see where you go and I’m along for the ride now. I’m not sure if you will see this or if anyone else will.
If you DO see this message - from one Dad to another - go and hug your wife and kids! The DC20 community is behind you. You should be proud of yourself. You did it. Keep working hard but enjoy the ride! Cheers! 💜🐧💜
I like your confidence/enthusiasm. Solid tips as well, and right to the point. Thanks!
Dylan Haire wow thank you for that. The crazy thing is this was my first video ever! So it me and even more that you said that now!
Intro is looking amazing and very in formative episode thanks coach
Samual Catson Thanks! I’m trying to “step up” my game at editing with each video!
When it comes to absences, I try to continue playing so long as the majority of our players are there.
Lycan Deadfall totally agree! Gotta keep the dream alive! I’m with ya!
Nice edits! The production value looks incredible! Also, thanks for the tip! I'll make sure to use them in my new campaign I am starting up soon! It's greatly appreciated
Pyro Master Thanks! I’ve been doing a lot of research on how to step up the quality of the channel. Glad to hear it’s paying off! Let me know how your session 0 goes!
I've only watched a few videos of yours, but I feel like if I had the opportunity to join a session with any youtube DM I've watched, I'd choose you.
DAAAAAANG!! Wow.... my jaw literally dropped on that one! That is high praise Dom... thank you... that just made my day!
@@TheDungeonCoach I think its the coach in you. You seem like you would get the best out of your players
Dom Minniti haha you are the first person to make that connection/ comparison... and I LOVE IT! There are definitely overlaps and I coach / DM the same in a lot of ways!
@@TheDungeonCoach what exactly do you coach, if you dont mine me asking. I'm also impressed on what you cram into a video. Sometimes youtubers split things into minimum viable chunks to get as many videos as possible.
Dom Minniti I know what you mean! But I try not to do that and just give y’all good stuff!! I got plenty to give! Haha
I coach pole vaulting (that crazy track and field event lol)
This is a really worthwhile video! Well done, sir!
Rewatching this and I'm really liking the less edited, less performing, more conversational feel of this. Missing that quality in the newer videos I think. I really LOVE how your organizing and presenting your information in the newer ones, but they do feel more like a presentation, you know?
Also, really like your session zero list, definitely adding some of these points to mine!
Benjamin Harl I am going to go back and watch this, literally my first official video, so I’ll definitely be looking for what you’re saying before I film my next one! Thanks for the feedback as usual!
@@TheDungeonCoach happy to give it friend! 👍 Keep up the good work! Your upload schedule is inspiring, considering how well thought out your content is.
@@bharl7226 Haha thanks! I am about to start trying to get Wednesday Videos out too, but a much shorter style of "Hot Topics" well see how it goes!
@@TheDungeonCoach that sounds cool, looking forward to checking them out.
Thanks for the tips I'm about to run my first ever session 0 next weak and these tips will really help me. I'm not a new DM but I just have never run a session 0 before so thanks man so glad you showed up in my feed. Will definitely hit that subscribe button.
All of this is good, the only one I deliberate is including the players in the construction of the narrative campaign. I'm all for having their backstories establish a location in the world etc, but as a writer, I am very possessive over the narrative content so I can ensure a consistent quality. I don't mean backstories--by all means: but co-constructing the world and primary issues seems great if a DM doesn't want to do that work, doesn't care that much about the narrative, or has players who absolutely want to do that. But for me, I want to deliver an amazing over-arching narrative, and even one hand in the pot is too many for my tastes.
I Just love your videos!
Wow, after watching this video I feel like I should have a second session 0 for the things I missed (which was a fair ammount). Literally had the session 0 two days ago
Haha Myself personally I actually like to have a session 0.5 and you could do flash backs
check out the video on 7 ways to start your campaign and at the end I talk about "Flashbacks"
you could just tell your players, hey before we get fully going lets do ___________ AND at the end well play a little sneak peek part of the game
wether its combat or flash backs.... or a mix of flashback combat!!! haha
@@TheDungeonCoach I also mised out on the "Topics to avoid", what they want with their characters/the campaign & discussing/deciding specifically what rule variations will be in effect. It was really only world/pantheon description & character creation. :/
Sir Shrafle hey! I’d say you are better off than most! Most groups don’t even have a session 0!!
@@TheDungeonCoach I try my best. Pretty nervous as a first time DM, especially as it's gonna be in my own world I made.
I feel safe in that I know the world really well, but it's intimidating to not have some "real" campaign or story.
Sir Shrafle join us on discord and we can help! The fact that you know your world is the hardest part out of the way already! So great work!
Top notch session 0 advice!
Sam Chafin haha this was my first video! Thanks man!!
Ooooooh, REALLY love the idea of the bonus tip
PWBI Yea! Glad to hear it! The players love it too!!
@@TheDungeonCoach It definitely seems like fun to play with, is it something your players can give input on? Like have you ever had a player come to you with an idea for a secret on their character that they want to play with?
PWBI for sure! One of my characters in my game I’m showing the behind the scenes of in my live streams said he wants to be a warlock posing as a paladin... HUGE secret
AND he has a pact to a patron that he made then got amnesia... so he doesn’t even know what the pact he made waS!!! So many secrets!! Muahaha 😈
@@TheDungeonCoach I love it! Hope the other players don't see this comment tho lol
PWBI Hahahaha TRUE! I should delete our whole convo!!! 😆
Love the channel! I’ve only been DMing for a short time myself, but I came up with a session 0 idea that I implemented in a campaign I’m currently running and I thought it was pretty cool and I’d love to hear your take on it. This really only works when the DM has a pretty good idea about what the overall campaign is going to be about or at least have some main quest elements already in mind. In my case I knew that the campaign was going to take place in a world with hundreds of island nations that the PCs would explore over the course of their adventures. My issue; how was I going to get these five PCs with vastly different backstories all onto the same small island to meet and start their adventure. I know I could of come up with something myself but I wanted them involved and I also wanted a little dice rolling at the end of the session to really get everyone into character before our first real session. So I told each player to roll a d20 six times and write down all their results. I then one by one role played with each player different situations they came across ultimately ending with them coming to the island. As we went I would describe a scene that they were witnessing like, “The merchant ship you bought passage on is suddenly attacked by pirates! What do you do?” “I fight back!” And then I’d tell the player to pick one of the 6 numbers they previously rolled to apply to how well they succeed at what they want to do. Once picked that number would get erased and I would continue that player’s story until they used up all 6 numbers. I liked having the players know beforehand all six of their numbers so then it allowed them to role play their character in these situations more how they would want them to go, but still force them to make some choices and have a bit of luck with dice involved too. My players really liked it and it led to better scenarios for how they individual arrived at this island then I ever would have come up with by myself. One player ended up having to swim to the island following their ship being destroyed, another drifted ashore unconscious in a life boat, and one of them ended up being a bounty hunter hunting down one of the other players who was a runaway princess! I really liked the idea and I’m honestly trying to think of some more opportunities to use the same system later in the campaign as well. After watching some of your other videos on the subject, I think it could work well for some solo downtime adventures and activities. Let me know what you think, I’d love some feedback! And thanks for such an awesome channel! For new DMs like me it’s been invaluable!
Been subbed for a while and just wanted to comment good vibes and prompts for what you have built and shared on your channel. You end this getting pumped and hopeful about hitting 100 subs and we can tell your genuine in you enthusiasm and love of sharing this game. 💪🤓👍
Awesome channel & video .
I just found you and subscribed .
Nice top ten list .
This is the first video i watched .
TH-cam recommended a different video but i like to go to the channels home page and watch the oldest video and than the newest video for comparison .
Hey man! I had a session 0 not too long ago and used some of the points you outline here so thanks a lot!
I was wondering what you mean when you say "bonus stuff" for filling the character template and/or interweaving player character backstories.
Oudwin Thanks for checking back in, I love hearing updates from y’all!
And it’s funny you ask about intertwining character backstories! I JUST made a video on just that!
th-cam.com/video/4QczekJGEWc/w-d-xo.html
Check it out and see if that answers your questions! If not let me know!!
@@TheDungeonCoach so, when you say "bonus stuff" in this video, you really mean that you will incorporate player backstories into the world and campaign plot ?
Ps: I had already seen that video :P
Oudwin Hahahah oooooo then what point are you talking about? Is there a time stamp you can tell me so I can watch that part and give you the context! Sorry for the miss communication! Haha
@@TheDungeonCoach The Dungeon Coach no worries I should have let with the time stamp: 12:40
I was wondering if you could give some examples of what you mean by "bonus stuff". Also I would love some examples from a campaign of yours of the "lore only they know" and the "secret". ( This is from "tip 0: a secret" 14:30
PS: so far I find all your videos really thought provoking so I don't plan on missing any :)
Oudwin Oooooooo ok lets do this! “Bonus stuff” = extra proficiency (skill/ tool/ language), items they have from this awesome backstory, I’ve added mechanics to the game of these “twins” who can speak telepathically to each other which I gave them as this “Bonus stuff” I’ve even done gold before. Really it’s whatever wild make sense for the cool backstory they give you
Great video. I GM Pathfinder and have had to be absent a few times. It’s never easy and it definitely brings the group down. Wish I saw this before. But I’m doing a session 0 again on Sunday so I’m excited
15:29 only 33 subscribers?
Me (Apr 2022): *looks at date of video: Nov 2019. Looks at subs number: 38k*
Me: noice.
Hahahah thats crazy!!! thanks for the trip down memory lane Waffle!
I like your tips and your presentation to camera seems very confident and professional. I also admire your goal to provide quick and quality information that consolidates what you have learned from spending a lot of time learning from other channels and your own experiences. But, if I may offer some constructive criticism, in my opinion you're not really reaching the "quick" aspect with many of your videos being over 10 mins, some quite a bit over. Also, it really feels like you're not condensing the information much since you're very talkative about each point. And most gratuitously (to me), we don't need the intro that prefaces exactly what the video title tells us, then the title card with the music, and then after that another intro spiel about you and your channel. I personally think that just one of those three intro sequences will be just fine, or perhaps the title card and half your intro speech to speed things along. This last point might just be a nit pick, but it bothers me a bit considering your channel intro video and seemingly your channel slogan is about providing quick easy to pick up content.
Just my two cents to help you out, because I like what you're trying to do! Have a good one man!
I always appreciate constructive criticism! And props to you for doing it so well (internet can tend to be blunt and toxic lol)
So I agree with so much of what you say and its a tough balancing act for me to pull off in the best way possible. Balancing length of video with quality of information. I have an 18 min DM video... which is definitly not quick... but in my opinion is the most consolidated new DM tips video on TH-cam. Since its such a big topic, I have searched for all that info and its out there kind of... but across multiple videos from different people over an hour long with extra fluff in there too. So id say 18 is pretty solid. But there lies the dilemma, do I chop off things that are in my opinion VITAL?? I chose not to.
But my main goal is to provide a one stop shop for people (eventually... with more videos lol) to come to for jam packed info. This video is also my first actual video ever (since my first video was just me introducing the channel) I would love for you to watch my most recent and see if I have gotten better at these things. So when you say i talk about some points gratuitously, that probably comes from me thinking its that important and I dont want to just hit it and move on.
The into i say at the start is a "TH-cam video best practice" and part of what I'm learning to "hook" the audience at the beginning, and the intro card and music is to provide a familiar experience/ branding every time you see a video of mine. Then laying out what the talking points are helps people know what exactly is coming (stick around to the end for _____) Lastly, TH-cam doesnt like 1-9 minute videos as much as 10+ min videos, so there is a better chance of my channel getting out there to grow it if my videos are 10:01 long if you see what I mean. So once I have "made it" I can definitely see myself making videos under that, especially if the topic is a "quick and simple" one
TLDR those are all things I have done research on that are supposed to help with videos online
BUT with ALL that said, I TOTALLY see your point and hear you bro! These points you make, even though I have reasons, I can ALWAYS improve on them/ see what I can do for a better experience for more people and find that right balance.
SO: what I have taken away/ appreciate the tips on
1. Intro statements to the video should not just be a repeat of the title of the video and more informative
2. get into it and into the MEAT of the video asap
3. constantly check myself on streamlining things to be shorter
Thank you man, and I apologize for the long comment... especially with the topic of "shot and sweet" lol, but its just because I really do appreciate it!
@@TheDungeonCoach Yeah, I understand the struggle of shortening such broad topics from my own struggles trying to cohesively and concisely explain my own personal system to new and old players who have never seen a game like it.
The only thing I can suggest to help with that is to split bigger topics (like dming, probably the biggest ttrpg topic that I don't think can be satisfyingly and usefully abbreviated by much unfortunately) into smaller pieces, but that's not always easy to do.
I actually only watched your dm tips #1 and this video so far, (since the other video topics didn't interest me since I'm not a fan of D&D and have no interest in playing it or running it anymore) before leaving you my critique. So I might have to come back to check out your newer ones.
I say fair enough to all your rebuttals to my criticisms, as I am somewhat familiar with the youtube format and platform success necessities. I get the need for branding and marketability to get spread to a wider audience, as well as the idea of keeping the viewer around until the end of the video with a "coming up..." kind of start. These are some of the things that have come up in my own research towards the possiblity starting a youtube channel about my game and personal preferences and tips for how to run ttrpgs in general (just not D&D specifically, lol). I guess that kind of stuff just bothers me since I'm so used to seeing the formula in every other channel's videos and in my mind it just didn't gel with your channel's theme, you know?
All in all, I 100% agree with your 3 big takeaways from my criticism! Those are definitely good notes to keep in mind moving forward. God speed, man!
@@bharl7226 What game do you play?? I want to hear what it is and see if there is a video I could make that would be "neutral" one for you.
Thats another "TH-cam" thing is to "niche" yourself haha. But I totally see how the youtube standard procedure goes against my own theme! Definitely gonna brainstorm on more efficient ways to flow it... writing my video script right now actually for my next one haha. Thank again man! I value your time! (and will do better at it lol)
@@TheDungeonCoach Oh it's my personal system I've been developing for a while, due to dissatisfaction with D&D and many other games. It's very unfinished and unpolished at the moment but I'm very close to starting some playtesting of the ideas in the next few of months hopefully.
I'm not sure what kind of more neutral topics you could cover that would appeal to people like me, I'd have to think about that some more.
Yeah that TH-cam procedure is a bit restrictive for sure. It's part of why I haven't decided whether or not to do my own channel so far.
I'm really pleased to find someone who actually takes criticism well and as a way to grow and get better. Good on you, man!
Benjamin Harl dude you rock!
I love the creativity you have to be bold enough to make your own system! Props to you man!
I have an idea what you’d like! I have a “D&D Lite” version of the game to play with new people, that would speak to you probably lol
Good luck on it and email me when you finish it! Love to see it!
I'm a little late, but I have a question! Do I tell the players that everyone has a secret or I keep it secret too?
The campaign I'm currently playing in used this tip, but took it one further: You know something about one of the other players, and there's also a secret about you that no one knows. Everyone knew the situation (two secrets each), but not the content of those secrets.
Good work, Alan.
Some rules of mine:
1. Yes, they have to do character voices. If they say something out of character it is not canon. If I have to 20+ NPC voices, than so too shall they suffer with me.
2. Bards are broken and unbalanced; therefore, anyone wishing to play a bard must play and actual instrument. It enhances the RP dynamic and amuses me.
3. Characters with exceptionally low intelligence should talk and act like idiots and purposefully make poor decisions. This can also be attributed to low Wisdom.
If still fairly new at DMing too, but it's rewarding when your players tell you how much better you are than that other guy who just runs games out of a book.
ScathingTake That’s what I want to build here is a community to share ideas on how we all do things and then let our experience and shared ideas make ALL of our games that much better!
The “DC Method” on each of those:
1. I always want my PC’s to feel comfortable, so I never “force” voices, but definitely encourage it. Out of the 8 players I have between 2 campaigns only 2 really use voices and even that is only occasionally. As the DM I TRY and go big with voices so my players feel comfortable to if they want. That’s actually one thing that was on my video but cut out, talking to everyone about using voices or not. Love the input!
2. Bards are definitely takes the most Player skill to pull off with the right feel. I would have a talk for sure with anyone wanting to attempt it. Here’s my ideas for some Unique Bards:
- Battle Dancer: like the Samoan tribal dancing... I think that’s what it’s called, aggressive dancing that bolsters the party
- Singing enchantress
- Chanting Cultist type character that mumbles chants in another language as his voice echoes through the battle field
- Beautiful and inspiring dancer
- Then of course there are your “classic” instrument bards
I have played a Bard that wielded a while that’s hilt was a flute, he would play the flute and the tail of the whip would go ethereal and hes use to for attacks/ casting spells
3. I let my players choose how HARD they want to RP their stats. If they have an Int of 6, they could totally play it as a moron to whatever extent. But in reality a 10 Int is “average” and a 6 is only a -2 to Int... so they are only 10% below “average”
So if they feel like their characters defining characteristic is “dumb” or “lacking wisdom” then that’s fine. I just don’t want to force RP on someone who doesn’t see that as the “vision” of their character. But definitely have conversations about what stats they should put where that makes the most sense for them.
Thanks for the comment! This is what I want for this channel!
I do have some cool systems in place for another video on how I do character creation, and a way to handle Int in general.
The way he said “and maybe even playing” (raises eyebrows)
Keaton Tiner hahaha this was my first video ever... so seeing that back again (went and watched it when you said this) haha so crazy to see that video lol
The Dungeon Coach haha I love it I’m working on a session now set in a custom world (lots of dead drows) your video helped me decide on jumping into a .5 instead of a 0
Keaton Tiner nice! Glad I could be of service!! 😄
The Dungeon Coach do you have a discord?
Keaton Tiner it’s in the description of all my videos 👍🏼 come join!
Haha, 100 subscribers...
Hahaha I know right? Been a crazy journey
Quick videos? It's 16 minutes. Detail isn't inherently a bad thing by any means and it's what i'd prefer, but there's a clear mismatch between your stated goal and your actual practice.
Bismuth Crystal I totally agree with you! This was my first video I ever made in TH-cam, so I’ve gotten much better at trying to do this message and jam pack videos with efficient info! I’ve also been focusing a lot on creativity too! 👍🏼
16 minutes isn't quick? Wow, I guess this world really does move too fast for me.
Playing another players character is something I would not even in a million years consider doing.
A million years is a long time.
Hubba hubba!
Everyone knows that all they receive a secret?
This video aged weirdly
Bram Lastname Hahahaha my first video... o man! I could make such a better session 0 video now lol
But I’d hate to double back and repeat a topic when there’s so much I haven’t shared yet!
@@TheDungeonCoach it's fine,
The advice is still good,
It's just that something feels different,
I don't know what, but it's different.
Bram Lastname is have to watch it again, but from what I know there is probably a lack of energy/ confidence /my editing cuts/ even the back ground lol
@@TheDungeonCoach I think the confidence and cuts are the most notable difference.
Tho I'm way less confident in front of a camera,
So you still seem pretty confident to me.
Bram Lastname haha thanks man! I hope the content was still helpful!!