So I've recently been asked to DM my first IRL campaign for a few friends (yay!) But while I have all the necessary source books and am in the process of designing a world and campaign, the first session is coming up here soon and one thing I don't have is a DM screen. I know a lot of the pre-made campaigns have their own, campaign specific ones but since I'm doing something custom I need something more flexible. Anyone know where I should start looking? If not to buy than perhaps for instructions on how to make a simple DIY one at home? Tips and tricks for setting it up once I do have one would also be greatly appreciated.
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If you think you need one, I suggest running down to a local game shop - if your town has one - that will get you one faster than any online shop. You could also just open a sourcebook up to a helpful page and stand that up in front of you.
That said, if this is your first game, I wouldn't stress too much about a DM screen. Lots of DMs don't play with them on purpose. I have about 3-4 I've purchased over the years, but I never use them anymore. I don't like feeling disconnected from the group, and no screen means I can adjust the battlefield easier without worrying about knocking things over.
@Vedexent: Thanks! I'll check that one out and think it over. :)
@ZiegeBucket: There are a handful where I live but all they have in stock DM screen wise are ones that were made for specific campaigns. Nothing customizable enough to suit what I'm looking for unfortunately. And that's interesting that you don't use a screen much any more. How do you organize all your notes and such then out of curiosity?
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Viaya Morbrew - Imela: The Adventure Begins - High Elf/Rogue (Level 1)
I got THIS one from Amazon for $20 USD Prime. You can insert 8.5x11 sheets into four boards front and back. It has proven very versatile. A good and inexpensive in for a DM. There are more expensive options available for sure. But this one does just fine by me.
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Thank you. ChrisW
Ones are righteous. And one day, we just might believe it.
Look on etsy, there are plenty of custom DM Screens. I just finished one for a customer, look for Top Griz, I'd be happy to help you in any way I can. Quality isn't cheap and I hand make every screen to your specifications. Good luck.
So I've recently been asked to DM my first IRL campaign for a few friends (yay!) But while I have all the necessary source books and am in the process of designing a world and campaign, the first session is coming up here soon and one thing I don't have is a DM screen. I know a lot of the pre-made campaigns have their own, campaign specific ones but since I'm doing something custom I need something more flexible. Anyone know where I should start looking? If not to buy than perhaps for instructions on how to make a simple DIY one at home? Tips and tricks for setting it up once I do have one would also be greatly appreciated.
Viaya Morbrew - Imela: The Adventure Begins - High Elf/Rogue (Level 1)
Entropy Klyv - Hunted ! - Half Orc/College of Lore Bard (Level 6)
Xieva Talwinder - Crosswinds - Firbolg/School of Enchantment Wizard (Level 5)
This one works decently enough.
It's essentially just 4 panels attached, with 8.5 x 11 pockets front and back.
You can completely change all the DM inserts, and the artwork.
My DM Philosophy, as summed up by other people: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rN5w4-azTq3Kbn0Yvk9nfqQhwQ1R5by1/view
Disclaimer: This signature is a badge of membership in the Forum Loudmouth Club. We are all friends. We are not attacking each other. We are engaging in spirited, friendly debate with one another. We may get snarky, but these are not attacks. Thank you for not reporting us.
If you think you need one, I suggest running down to a local game shop - if your town has one - that will get you one faster than any online shop. You could also just open a sourcebook up to a helpful page and stand that up in front of you.
That said, if this is your first game, I wouldn't stress too much about a DM screen. Lots of DMs don't play with them on purpose. I have about 3-4 I've purchased over the years, but I never use them anymore. I don't like feeling disconnected from the group, and no screen means I can adjust the battlefield easier without worrying about knocking things over.
@Vedexent: Thanks! I'll check that one out and think it over. :)
@ZiegeBucket: There are a handful where I live but all they have in stock DM screen wise are ones that were made for specific campaigns. Nothing customizable enough to suit what I'm looking for unfortunately. And that's interesting that you don't use a screen much any more. How do you organize all your notes and such then out of curiosity?
Viaya Morbrew - Imela: The Adventure Begins - High Elf/Rogue (Level 1)
Entropy Klyv - Hunted ! - Half Orc/College of Lore Bard (Level 6)
Xieva Talwinder - Crosswinds - Firbolg/School of Enchantment Wizard (Level 5)
I got THIS one from Amazon for $20 USD Prime. You can insert 8.5x11 sheets into four boards front and back. It has proven very versatile. A good and inexpensive in for a DM. There are more expensive options available for sure. But this one does just fine by me.
Thank you.
ChrisW
Ones are righteous. And one day, we just might believe it.
Look on etsy, there are plenty of custom DM Screens. I just finished one for a customer, look for Top Griz, I'd be happy to help you in any way I can. Quality isn't cheap and I hand make every screen to your specifications. Good luck.
what sort of customization are you looking for? customised reference sheets on the inside, or customised look on the outside?
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Check this one if you have 3D printer - highly customizable modular DM Screen plus accessories: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/gracewindale/gracewindale-dungeon-masters-lair