Biyu

Real name: David

DMing experience: 30 years

DMed systems: Dungeons & Dragons (OD&D, AD&D 2e, AD&D 2e w/ Player’s Option, D&D 3.0, D&D 3.5, D&D 4E, D&D 5E), Star Wars (WEG, d20, Saga), d20 Modern, Paranoia (original ruleset), Traveller (original ruleset), Mutants & Masterminds

Played systems: Dungeons & Dragons (AD&D 2e, AD&D 2e w/ Player’s Option, D&D 3.0, D&D 3.5), Star Wars (WEG, d20), Traveller (original ruleset), RIFTS, Car Wars, Call of Cthulhu, Ars Magica, Shadowrun, MERP, RuneQuest, The Riddle of Steel, Espada Negra

Published work: Chaos Tides campaign setting (fanbook; AD&D and d20 conversion)

DMing style:

• I don’t like classic fantasy, I find it trite and boring, but I recognize the old school feeling behind hacking and slashing goblins is certainly charming.
• I’m a writer. I like plots. I like characterizations. I like changing my voice and playing my NPCs. But I’m a DM. I like open, flowing, flexible plots. I like player-oriented characterizations. I like rolling dice.
• Players are first. No NPCs or overarching plots should be above them. But I’m playing, too. I deserve to have as much fun as my players do. If I’m not having fun, I won’t DM that campaign.
• Fun first, rules second. Also, no rules discussions at the game table (if possible). I can and will be contested, but later.
• I follow some simple rules:
  • Use your creativity but be spare.
  • Improvise but prepare beforehand.
  • Give them what they want but surprise them.
  • Think Hollywood but be consistent.