GM needed: Throne of Shadows (L16+, Gestalt, 5e)

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Nov 7, 2023 2:53 am
"The Throne of Shadows" (Note: this concept is based on a game I've had in mind for some time. AI was used to expand upon the initial idea).

Campaign Concept:

"The Throne of Shadows" is a Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition campaign set in a sprawling Kingdom known as Eldoria. The kingdom is in a state of unrest following the recent death of its beloved king. In this campaign, the players take on the roles of influential figures who head various organizations within the kingdom. Each character aspires to claim the vacant throne and become the next ruler of Eldoria.

Campaign Overview:
The campaign begins with a grand funeral ceremony for the late king, where the characters first cross paths - in game (though in their backstories many may have crossed paths before). They are all aware of the king's demise and the opportunity it presents. However, they start off as independent power players, with their own organizations and spheres of influence.

The kingdom of Eldoria is vast and diverse, filled with political intrigue, hidden agendas, and rival factions. As the campaign progresses, the characters navigate through a web of alliances, rivalries, and challenges, all while working towards their ultimate goal of ascending to the throne.

Character Development:
Each character represents a different facet of the kingdom's power structure, and their unique abilities and resources play a crucial role in their campaign journey. They must leverage their organization's strengths, forge alliances, and manipulate the kingdom's underbelly to gain support and influence.

Throughout the campaign, the characters will encounter various obstacles and quests that test their leadership, diplomacy, combat prowess, and strategic thinking. They may need to make difficult choices that shape their character's morality and reputation, as well as influence their relationships with other factions.

Interactions and Alliances:
As the characters vie for the throne, they will have opportunities to interact with each other. These encounters can result in temporary alliances, bitter rivalries, or even unexpected romances. The choices made during these interactions can have lasting consequences, altering the trajectory of the campaign and shaping the kingdom's future.

The Game of Thrones:
The campaign culminates in a climactic event, where the characters participate in a grand political assembly known as "The Game of Thrones." This event brings together the kingdom's influential figures, including the characters themselves, to debate, negotiate, and compete for support from various factions and power players.

The players must use their accumulated resources, alliances, and personal accomplishments to sway the assembly and secure their claim to the throne. The outcome of this assembly will determine the next ruler of Eldoria, and the campaign concludes with the coronation of the new king.

City of Shadowgate: Shadowgate is a bustling metropolis, the heart (and capital) of the kingdom, and the center of political power. The city is divided into districts, each representing different factions or social classes. These districts include the Noble Quarter, the Commoners' District, the Arcane Enclave, the Temple District, the Thieves' Den, and the Military Stronghold.

Faction Dynamics: Shadowgate is a city rife with factionalism and internal power struggles. Besides the player characters' organizations, there are other influential factions within the city, such as noble houses, merchant guilds, rival religious sects, and influential families. These factions can either be allies, rivals, or neutral entities, and the players must navigate these relationships to gain support for their bid for the throne.

Quests and Challenges: The campaign is structured around quests and challenges that the characters undertake to establish their worthiness as potential rulers. These quests can involve uncovering political secrets, solving mysteries, leading military campaigns against external threats, negotiating alliances, or even engaging in covert operations against rival factions.

City Events: The city itself is a dynamic entity with ongoing events that shape the political climate. These events can include festivals, religious ceremonies, criminal uprisings, or diplomatic visits from neighboring kingdoms. The players must seize opportunities presented by these events to further their own goals and gain favor among the city's inhabitants.

Character Progression: As the campaign progresses, the characters evolve and grow in power and influence. They might gain new abilities, unlock unique resources, or develop new political connections. The choices they make, both individually and collectively, will impact their character's growth and ultimately decide their fate in the race for the throne.

Intrigue and Betrayal: Political campaigns are not without intrigue and betrayal. The players should be prepared for potential betrayals from their allies or even within their own organizations. NPCs might offer tempting deals or reveal hidden agendas, forcing the characters to make difficult choices that can have far-reaching consequences.

Endgame: The grand finale of the campaign takes place at "The Game of Thrones," a high-stakes event where the players must present their case to the assembly of influential figures. This event could involve debates, contests, negotiations, and even physical challenges. The players' accumulated achievements, alliances, and the support they have garnered throughout the campaign will heavily influence the outcome of this event.

Remember, the beauty of a campaign like "The Throne of Shadows" lies in its possibilities for political intrigue, character development, and unpredictable alliances. The players' choices and actions will shape the narrative, leading to a unique and engaging campaign experience.

Note:
It's important to discuss this campaign concept with your players before starting the campaign. Ensure that everyone is interested in exploring the intricacies of political maneuvering, alliances, and rivalries while keeping in mind the potential for player-versus-player conflicts. Collaboratively establish boundaries and expectations to create a rewarding and enjoyable experience for all players involved.
[ +- ] Other Details
[ +- ] examples of character concepts
Last edited November 11, 2023 2:03 pm
Nov 7, 2023 3:28 pm
If there is interest from a GM but there is some aspect(s) that prevent you from wanting to take this on, I'm open to discussion to alter some of the listed parameters. The 5e is not negotiable.
Last edited November 7, 2023 3:29 pm
Nov 7, 2023 4:11 pm
I don't have the cycles to run this but wonder if you have the idea already why not run it yourself?
Nov 7, 2023 4:13 pm
because I lack the skills to GM...I've played for over 30 years and have tried GMing many times...never successfully.
Nov 7, 2023 4:21 pm
Running games is both challenging and fun.
Sometimes it is a matter of game styles. Not all player / DM matchups work well. There are usually more people wanting to play than available games. Many would me willing to work with a DM who is still developing the skills. But if it's not for you then would you be willing to co-DM? It may make this more appealing.
Last edited November 7, 2023 4:26 pm
Nov 7, 2023 4:23 pm
I would...though as a GM under direction and supervision of the other. I also have a character ID like to play so the other GM would need to have access to some information that I'm not privy to...though I'm quite capable of keeping player and character knowledge separated.
Nov 7, 2023 4:27 pm
A Co-Gm perhaps? To help out. Also I find obp gaming and irl gling different. Pbp you have more prep/response time but also is easier to let things go and slow down.

Especially a game like this that sounds a big undertaking a lot of GMs like to be able to prep organise own setting/plans etc. I would also personally be worried about not living up to the expectations etc or 'getting something wrong. ( Though I'm not a 5e girl so that is moot here :p.)

Edit: Realised in time it took me to writ ethos Psy ermagihad posted with same comment
Last edited November 7, 2023 6:04 pm
Nov 7, 2023 4:29 pm
GP suits have a multiple GM option for games.
I am in a game using it now . Or you can just set up the game and create a private channel for game content to share with yourself and the other DM and they can have other areas private to just themselves
Last edited November 7, 2023 4:30 pm

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