The West Marches | Running the Game

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  • Опубліковано 11 лют 2017
  • Episode 30: I'd love to run a West Marches game, what do you think?
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 969

  • @puffinforest
    @puffinforest 7 років тому +1433

    I think that even if someone doesn't run a West Marches style game, there's still a lot of advice here that you can port over to a "regular" D&D campaign such as: letting players make up their own map, dropping multiple plot lines and seeing which ones the players gravitate towards, and exploring the wilds. I've never run a West Marches game, but I have used those tactics and it has turned out great!

    • @sebastianwinters9864
      @sebastianwinters9864 3 роки тому +18

      Absolutely, it enhances any hex-crawl or mega-dungeon, and incorporating all those in a narrative driven adventure path? Big Plays, much fun, Wow!

    • @kais2169
      @kais2169 3 роки тому +23

      Love your content man. Know you probs get this all the time, but you were what got me into D&D, and any ttrpg in general. Thank you for introducing me to this awesome hobby!

    • @microhistoria
      @microhistoria 3 роки тому +20

      YOOOOOOOOOOO THIS MY BOI MR. FOREST HIMSELF

    • @17joren
      @17joren 3 роки тому +3

      @Lourdes Parkison I do know that no one cares

    • @Emohawk707
      @Emohawk707 3 роки тому +7

      Yeah, but what do you know about D&D? ;)

  • @mcCIDcombo
    @mcCIDcombo 7 років тому +1639

    "This is a hopefully a short video."
    Haha. Silly Matt. There's no such thing on this channel.

    • @NatOrPie
      @NatOrPie 7 років тому +47

      It isn't a hour so it's short for him ;)

    • @sethhowell2278
      @sethhowell2278 7 років тому +38

      and thats just the way we like it!

    • @Nerdarchy
      @Nerdarchy 7 років тому +59

      Yup, I really don't think anyone's gonna mind! -Nerdarchist Ryan

    • @Puntosmx
      @Puntosmx 7 років тому +13

      "short" as in "not 3-hours long".... Just the way I like it too ^_°

  • @jonathanraatz1717
    @jonathanraatz1717 7 років тому +601

    I am currently the president of the newly founded D&D club at the college I attend. Our members have expressed interest in having the games be set in one world and having the ability to switch groups if they wanted. This game type seems perfect for what we are looking for.

    • @charlieb8735
      @charlieb8735 5 років тому +23

      That sounds really cool though certainly a challenge to pull off. I see this was a while ago but I’m sure a lot of people would love to know how it worked out if you ever undertook it

    • @camdenberry
      @camdenberry 4 роки тому +9

      I’m very jealous lol

    • @arthurspears8477
      @arthurspears8477 Рік тому +3

      The other way is using an Adventurers' Guild so players can come and go.

  • @drewbryk
    @drewbryk Рік тому +22

    My conspiracy theory is that no one has actually run a west marches or hex crawls. We just love to write and plan them but none has actually happened. Who has 15 friends??

    • @iraq-EBC
      @iraq-EBC 12 днів тому

      I played it for 4 years (1year 5e and 3 of Pathfinder 2e) it is perfect for online group

  • @NotAWhaleAtAll
    @NotAWhaleAtAll 2 роки тому +88

    When it's the TPK, players have a hell of a story to tell when they get back to town
    The most metagame thing I've ever heard)

  • @mejd16
    @mejd16 7 років тому +541

    I would like to make my opinion heard: I do not want shorter videos. Your videos are incredibly indepth and inspiring. I put one on while I work on something else and it is very enriching. If I miss out on pieces of information, I'm not concerned because, like the reference manuals of the game, these videos are fantastic reference materials. Any time I need a little push in a topic described in a video, I can just throw it on again. The explanations and enthusiasm match the first time I watched, only now I am more ready for the information, and I will absorb more.
    Long story short, your videos are best when they're long

    • @Puntosmx
      @Puntosmx 7 років тому +5

      Foxie Neikun I like these short, 30-min vids ^_^

    • @BlackRainRising
      @BlackRainRising 4 роки тому +7

      agreed, can listen to them while playing other games like league or warships and it's good to hear for ideas

    • @ronniejdio9411
      @ronniejdio9411 4 роки тому +1

      I like both but 1 he long videos he has done have been aces

  • @g3xe49
    @g3xe49 7 років тому +327

    Typical of Dave not to pair up with Lisa...That is such a Dave move

    • @prestonbrower762
      @prestonbrower762 4 роки тому +17

      Come on Dave. Get your act together man

    • @t.h.mcelroy6597
      @t.h.mcelroy6597 4 роки тому +8

      Frick'n Dave...

    • @UncleGus007
      @UncleGus007 3 роки тому +12

      It's not my fault Lisa always tries to tame every animal we encounter and we end up getting shredded.

    • @joshholmes1372
      @joshholmes1372 2 роки тому +5

      @@UncleGus007 I'm with Dave on this one.

  • @leonielson7138
    @leonielson7138 7 років тому +95

    The players explore the maze and kill the Minotaur, but discover a door that can only be opened by a Minotaur.
    Later, they learn that a Necromancer has moved into the maze. Another group (or the same group exploring the rumor) goes to explore the maze to discover the Necromancer has raised a Skeletal Minotaur, opened the door, and now has access to all the epic loot! Or maybe another floor of the maze!
    After clearing out the goblins, wolves have been savaging the livestock. Upon exploring further, the players discover that a Werewolf has taken over the pack, leading their savagery. This Werewolf is being opposed by a Werebear, who was once the Werewolf's mentor and friend, who can provide the players with a silver weapon.
    Remember, every decision should have a consequence.

  • @thebobsterjones
    @thebobsterjones 7 років тому +500

    "Hopefully a short video"
    *Looks at run time* - *laughs*

    • @michaelmilton1990
      @michaelmilton1990 7 років тому +7

      exactly my reaction, lol.

    • @luchilenium
      @luchilenium 7 років тому +3

      Me too ;)

    • @guidoinsunglasses6385
      @guidoinsunglasses6385 7 років тому +10

      thebobsterjones This is a pretty short video compared to some of Matt's other videos. I have now associated "Short Video" with 25-30 minutes.

    • @noahegler9131
      @noahegler9131 5 років тому +4

      If it's less than an hour, it's short in my book. I want more of sexy beard man's voice

    • @kofola9145
      @kofola9145 4 роки тому +3

      30 minutes IS a short video.

  • @CaronDriel
    @CaronDriel 6 років тому +189

    I've always thought that you could very easily convert the West Marches style of game into a guild based adventure as well. Every player is a member of an Adventurer's Guild, which are hired for something as simple as exterminating a few rats in a lady's house to backing up an entire army or even forming an entire army to deal with another kingdom or some equally large threat. The players form different groups and take different quests, depending on what they think they can handle or how much the reward(s) interests them. The quality and quantity of the rewards for different quests could vary drastically, allowing for anywhere from 1-10 players being involved in a single mission.

    • @user-je2qs4vm4n
      @user-je2qs4vm4n 4 роки тому +2

      check blue hoods discord

    • @lucasdelaplace2795
      @lucasdelaplace2795 4 роки тому +1

      @@user-je2qs4vm4n pretty sure you might be one year too late

    • @user-je2qs4vm4n
      @user-je2qs4vm4n 4 роки тому +19

      @@lucasdelaplace2795 I'm writing from Internet Explorer

    • @silkysnow6793
      @silkysnow6793 4 роки тому

      @@user-je2qs4vm4n Wait. I saw that server listed. What do you mean its outdated?

    • @thrawnnoconnection6931
      @thrawnnoconnection6931 3 роки тому

      What about... This, but it's Paranoia?

  • @mcolville
    @mcolville  7 років тому +570

    A lot of people assume a West Marches game is the same as a Hexcrawl, but I want to do another video on hexcrawling. Then there'll be one video on Sandboxing, one on the West Marches, and one on Hexcrawling, and people can combine them however they want.

    • @FrozenSpector
      @FrozenSpector 7 років тому +5

      Could you do a video (or point me in the direction thereof) on and about GenCon? This year being the 50th anniversary of Gary Gygax's table-top convention, I think this would provide an opportunity for an interesting video. It would show support for D&D at its source and bring more attention to an amazing opportunity to get together and play.

    • @bjhale
      @bjhale 7 років тому +42

      Matthew Colville I just had a thought about how to divorce the two. Traditionally, West Marches is about exploring a geographical territory, but I think it could be adapted to a political/story one. Instead of a bunch of adventurers sitting in a tavern in an unexplored wilderness, the PCs are agents of a nascent intelligence service identifying and addressing threats to the realm. Instead of a treasure map, you have a list of rumors and hearsay about potential threats.

    • @tristancotton7222
      @tristancotton7222 7 років тому +4

      this sounds awsome. brilliant idea

    • @darcyrobbs6866
      @darcyrobbs6866 7 років тому +16

      And.... i dont know what any of that is. I feel like i just walked in to the room of 20th level nerds as a level 3

    • @mcolville
      @mcolville  7 років тому +55

      If only there were videos you could watch explaining it all!

  • @AJPickett
    @AJPickett 7 років тому +249

    Wow, this video is so relevant to some issues I am having with my campaign right now, it really gave me a lot to think about, thanks Matt!

    • @Immersion-rpg
      @Immersion-rpg 4 роки тому +9

      You know it's a good video when AJ says thanks!

  • @PhantomCatMusic
    @PhantomCatMusic 5 років тому +17

    This video has started me on the path of setting up a west marches game, which we started last February. It has gone rampant, playing 2-3 sessions every week, and last night we had our 100th session with players exploring a yuan ti ruin that was first discovered in session 28. We have had more than 20 different players, and over 40 characters, most regular players having multiple characters. And we're having a great time!

  • @Trigfire
    @Trigfire 7 років тому +100

    HOLY CRAP
    For about a week I had this idea in my head... this idea that I really wanted to make a big group conversation with all the players, DMs and aspiring players that I know to schedule stuff so I wouldn't have to deal with all these smaller conversations and wouldn't have to organize everything myself. And the entire time I was thinking: How in the world can I do this efficiently? Won't this become super annoying an complicated? How can I get players to open their mouth and actually organise something? How can I do this without getting overloaded with one shots I will have to run for entirely different groups, with different goals, different levels and perhaps even in different worlds? How can I get players to not only play with other people but with other characters than the one they grew attached to without invalidating the established story?
    And then, from the heavens shone a brilliant light, blinding not only my eyes, but my very soul. Divine music filled my ears, haunting and joyous, otherwordly yet familiar, as a radiant figure descended through the clouds. His form was sexy, his beard and hair glorious and he smelled of cat.
    And Matthew Colville, for that was his name, leaned down to me and whispered softly in my ear:
    "Don't worry, I got you."
    And all became clear.
    So yeah I'm totally gonna run a west marches style game. It's gonna be great (I hope)!

    • @BernardoBlue
      @BernardoBlue 7 років тому +1

      Part of one right now (as a DM), if you want to join as a DM, I would welcome you aboard!

    • @WWGTheDevil
      @WWGTheDevil 6 років тому +11

      So how'd it go?

  • @leonielson7138
    @leonielson7138 7 років тому +78

    Need to give the players a reason to explore the world?
    Have them be hired by the Cartographer's Guild.
    Why hasn't the world been explored?
    People just arrived on this world/continent, and it hasn't been explored.

  • @CBusschaert
    @CBusschaert 2 роки тому +3

    the longer I hear this description the more I think Running a West Marches is basically running an MMO. Lots of players, talking between themselves and picking from a menu of quests they can go on, and then party up to do that quest. I think about the online MUDs (Multi User Dungeons) that were and probably still are a thing (though much more niche now I think). Very interesting!

    • @CountAdolfo
      @CountAdolfo 20 днів тому

      when I had my game store... we did this sort of thing and when I explained that to one of my younger friends, who wasn't there, he said we had an in person MMO... so, yeah, very astute observation

  • @isaachess9356
    @isaachess9356 4 роки тому +42

    An idea for this to keep the level difference from breaking it would be retiring characters. Say that, at 10th level, your character has to retire. Retired characters can still do npc things like share stories, sell items they found, build strongholds in or near the town, and maybe rescue/ shelter current PCs.

    • @solsystem1342
      @solsystem1342 Рік тому +1

      How many games are going to go for long enough for you to reach beyond 10th level? I say let it fly and then whenever your campaign is ending (if you get the chance) do a huge sendoff mission with every character fighting off some existential threat to their home base. With players having to organize to effectively use everyone they have.

  • @taylor65712
    @taylor65712 7 років тому +97

    Thank you for posting Matt, we know you're busy man. We appreciate you and all your hard work!!! Stay up & take care 💪

  • @Bandgelo
    @Bandgelo 7 років тому +2

    I've run four of these kinds of campaigns over the last five years for my University club, we call them 'Living Campaigns'. Each campaign had around 30-50 players (depending on popularity that year) and between 4-9 DMs. We had game nights twice a week, DMs would post their availability, players would form a group and then play the game. Their characters lived in a central hub, a group would go on an adventure and hopefully survive to return to the central hub at the end of the session. We encouraged Write Ups by awarding XP for doing them.
    Trying something new this year with fixed groups. Essentially, four parties running around in the same world. Really excited for it - four DMs and nineteen players in the world of Ord ( a nod to you Matt :) ).

  • @benwatson9642
    @benwatson9642 7 років тому +46

    DUUUDE! THIS TOTALLY FITS MY GROUP OF FRIENDS! Three dm's and like 15 players. Thank you!

    • @MRTonyKam
      @MRTonyKam 4 роки тому +3

      Ben Watson a group with more then one DM count yourself blessed

  • @thyros5958
    @thyros5958 7 років тому +4

    It's fun to learn that I spent a lot of time re-inventing the wheel when I ran my "Northern Reaches" campaign. Never heard of West Marches when I started it, and could have saved a month or two of trial and error. Good times.

  • @darkcloudcat7582
    @darkcloudcat7582 7 років тому +43

    I was already organizing a west marches game by the time the video ended

  • @michaelubaldi4414
    @michaelubaldi4414 7 років тому +11

    Great video. I was dazzled when I first read the 4-part series on West Marches years ago.
    A straight Robbins'-Rules table would be too much for me, as I've already experienced intra-competitive dragon-slaying from my days of leading raids in World of Warcraft. While the constant shifting of players who group out of compatibility, convenience, affinity and opportunity is fascinating, the agony and ecstasy are every bit as volatile as Robbins himself recounts - and enough for one lifetime.
    What I have done is incorporate the decentralized, player-driven, thread-pull style of West Marches in a SWRPG table. Starting with a sector map of 40 systems, each with a Mass Effect Codex-style write-up, I gave players a narrative push in the beginning, and have since maintained a supply of 5-6 new or developed hooks and leads each session. My players love it - when they've said, "There's so much to do, it's almost overwhelming," they've meant it as a compliment.

  • @kidsfringer
    @kidsfringer 6 років тому +14

    Oh my gosh! @Matthew Colville THIS is what I've been doing with my son! Didn't know it was a certain style of play. It's just that we can't get the same people together on a regular basis, so I started with your Delian Tomb, and he played to great effect with one of my friends who happened to be in the same waiting room as us. :)
    Followed up with a companion tomb I made for Lady Delia, whom the knights were sworn to protect. This he played with his best friend, and they've requested a forest adventure next!
    I didn't know I was doing a certain style - it just fell out that different people are available at different times. My son and I are the only constants thus far.
    Thank you so much for your Books, and your videos - it's always a pleasure to listen and learn and try things out.

  • @NZ_YT
    @NZ_YT 7 років тому +166

    IF ANYONE RUNS A WEST MARCHES GAME ON ROLL20, let me know! Dying to try this!!

    • @anthonyvilla3608
      @anthonyvilla3608 7 років тому +4

      I'm with you man! I wanna get in a West Marches game so bad! Hopefully soon something comes up.

    • @keanucange
      @keanucange 7 років тому +16

      There are tons of these on Roll20 but instead of west marches they are called 'living campaigns'

    • @keanucange
      @keanucange 7 років тому +11

      I dislike them a lot because the GMs are different (usually these games aren't just 1 GM doing it alL), the party is always different and it lacks the personal feel. It favors action over RP and short hooks over any long lasting plot hooks with epic twists and turns.

    • @MP-on1xf
      @MP-on1xf 7 років тому +5

      would also like to play as a player! Someone produce a willing DM!

    • @cloudsteele1989
      @cloudsteele1989 7 років тому +3

      +Some Guy I feel the same way. I haven't actually played one, but I would like it to be done by 1 or 2 collaborated DMs, with both short and long hooks. I like the idea of getting halfway through a quest, then realizing my team isn't fit for the job, and having to go back, or wait for re-enforcements.

  • @jimmurphy1591
    @jimmurphy1591 7 років тому +23

    wow, this is very old school. you at my Deep Silence you will see how many players I ran for. I love this idea. Good Job

    • @Hazel-xl8in
      @Hazel-xl8in 5 років тому +1

      woah it’s Jim Murphy!

  • @Nerdarchy
    @Nerdarchy 7 років тому +108

    I'd have thought you would have spared a few minutes to mention Steven Lumpkin's The West Marches that was on Rollplay- it was the practical implementation of the West Marches principals. The first few episodes were rocky, but I was extremely impressed with the way Lumpkin procedurally generated game material (he made a mass of random encounters, locations, and roll charts that would often indicate what the players happened across as they explored the wilderness), but managed to make it seem fresh and impromptu. -Nerdarchist Ryan

    • @mechacowboy
      @mechacowboy 6 років тому +10

      I know this is a dead, dead comment, but I think dear old Steve Lumpkin managed to work the West Marches format for all it was worth, especially with the way he solved the way that narrative gets pushed aside in that type of game and mechanizing inspiration better all in one fell swoop.

    • @roamingthereal4060
      @roamingthereal4060 6 років тому +7

      Lumpkin's West Marches is by far the best D&D show I've ever seen. It's a real shame the way it ended.

    • @Jawn15
      @Jawn15 4 роки тому

      Hey uh, maybe nerdarchy could do a video on that. Don't forget to crit hit that subscribe button and attune *harp sounds* to the notification bell.

  • @zsdCKanVOIJANSO
    @zsdCKanVOIJANSO 7 років тому +3

    I really really like this style! It's something I would love to try but I only have like 4 people irl that do want to play!
    The idea that you make a huge map and do a lot of work once, and then let them decide is something that sounds like a thing I would love to DM. It
    Would also weed out the people that "want to play" but never bring it up or ask about it so they clearly don't ACTUALLY want to play.
    This also is great to help out me in particular because it allows me to work on improvisation with small prompts, and being good at improv is great in a lot of situations in dnd and real life.
    Great video Matt !

  • @bafflerbach
    @bafflerbach 7 років тому +4

    wow this came at the perfect time. I just talked to a group of old highschool friends about playing DnD and got a much bigger group interested than i thought i would. I'm definitely going to propose this and give it a shot!

  • @micahpenhallegon8483
    @micahpenhallegon8483 5 років тому +6

    Did anyone else notice the picture in the background move at 22:09? I went back a few second to make sure I saw it right 😂

  • @youngserfs4994
    @youngserfs4994 7 років тому +1

    I was just watching your 'Running the Game' playlist for the millionth time and what a treat it was to get to a new video!
    These are great resources, Matt, thank you so much for making these videos.

  • @MaskofFayt
    @MaskofFayt 7 років тому +5

    I would love some sort of like reddit or similar thing of a West Marches game where we just sort of advertise little adventures and people sign up like an adventurer's guild. That sounds rather fun and a good way to meet random people

  • @Bistromathematic
    @Bistromathematic 7 років тому +4

    Thanks for making this vid! It's helping me begin working on my West Marches project again.

  • @whymthrad
    @whymthrad 2 роки тому +3

    My imagination was running absolutely wild with this. I dont think I will run this style game anytime soon. Currently fending off DM burnout and wanting to finish a 2 year campaign but this sounds like such a fresh change of pace.

  • @fezftw2hotmail
    @fezftw2hotmail 7 років тому +2

    I started watching these videos a few months back. Just want to say thanks for all your work you've put into this. Because of your help, the people I DM for are now enjoying this game more than ever!
    Keep up the good work bro x

  • @jameslowery4671
    @jameslowery4671 7 років тому +2

    this has been the style of play i've used for decades,love that this has been discussed on your feed.....great job sir

  • @mitchellquinn
    @mitchellquinn 7 років тому +6

    Really glad you've done a video about this; been wanting to get back into RPGs for years and this is one of the things I want to run.
    Uh, it's Monday tomorrow - it's already Monday here ... go to bed!

    • @NZ_YT
      @NZ_YT 7 років тому +1

      Mitchell Quinn same!

  • @Ronin147
    @Ronin147 7 років тому +4

    Ive been running a west marches style game for a couple of years now, we use a priority system based on the last time they played. So I announce when I can run, and people say they want to play and go by priority. The person with the highest priority gets to pick the adventure, usually that player gets feedback from the group on the adventure they want to pursue. Its been really great as a fall back when one of my regular campaigns has player that needs to cancel we will just run a west marches session. Or if I randomly have some time I can run an adventure its easy to get a group together for it.

    • @rblood01
      @rblood01 5 років тому +1

      How do you choose this priority? I assume it was the person that hasn't played for the longest time.

  • @gambent6853
    @gambent6853 7 років тому +2

    Awesome video as always Matt! Thanks for taking time to relay awesome content and ideas to us!

  • @manningstone5796
    @manningstone5796 7 років тому +1

    I am honestly in love with all this information. Giving me a whole new perspective on how to DM and getting players more involved. Thanks for all the videos Matt ^_^

  • @SirLucien
    @SirLucien 7 років тому +3

    Now you have the creative juices flowing, I absolutely need to attempt this.

  • @Mikemadchill
    @Mikemadchill 7 років тому +3

    Oh man. I didn't know I needed to be in a game like this, but I do. A subreddit is the perfect forum for this.

  • @michael14195
    @michael14195 3 роки тому +1

    Wow, this is a blast from the past! I played in the 70's with the original boxed set and can confirm that we played this way. Definitely recommended!

  • @KevinTheDane
    @KevinTheDane 6 років тому +2

    This is SO perfect for everybody's busy schedule. I was thinking about just running a bunch of One Shots - but linking them in a single world, with mix-and-match groups is just brilliant! :D

  • @johnmurphyakins989
    @johnmurphyakins989 7 років тому +5

    Just when I thought your videos couldn't get any better or more informative, you joyfully put me my place. Yes, please, and thank you, Matthew Colville!

    • @johnmurphyakins989
      @johnmurphyakins989 7 років тому +3

      in my place. see you got me so excited I can't type!!!

  • @sword7166
    @sword7166 5 років тому +4

    I think a discord server would probably be perfect for a west marches game, especially if you had specific channels for roleplaying, posting drafts of maps, etc

    • @Jawn15
      @Jawn15 4 роки тому

      Yuup there are a bunch out there. Used to moderate for one.

  • @nicholaskory1598
    @nicholaskory1598 5 років тому +1

    Just wanted to say that I watched this video about six months ago, and was so inspired that I reached out to all of my RPG friends about playing this sort of game. Long story short, TONIGHT will be our first session in a 4-DM, 40+ player West Marches campaign in an original setting. Super excited! Thanks for your inspiring and informative videos, Matt!

  • @PierceJamieson
    @PierceJamieson 4 роки тому

    Matt I just discovered you recently, and I feel compelled to say that your channel is fantastic. Thank you for everything you do

  • @HoboNoah
    @HoboNoah Рік тому +3

    I feel like tracking time in a West Marches style game would be a nightmare.

    • @muddeer5383
      @muddeer5383 3 місяці тому

      not really. the key is that time flows in game world at same rate as real life in between play sessions. another is that at end of each session, the party must return to a safe base. this is how d&d was originally played

  • @jarissthompson4203
    @jarissthompson4203 7 років тому +68

    i actually currently play in a marches game where our home base was destroyed by waking a sleeping god :')

    • @styxnstones98
      @styxnstones98 7 років тому +2

      Jariss Thompson omg yo jarris it's Bailey I didn't know you played dnd what edition do you guys use

    • @jarissthompson4203
      @jarissthompson4203 7 років тому +3

      BaileyWeasley 5e for one game 3.5 for another lol

    • @styxnstones98
      @styxnstones98 7 років тому +2

      Jariss Thompson nice I'm playing 3.5 with a group rn I'm having a lot of fun. :)

    • @jarissthompson4203
      @jarissthompson4203 7 років тому +1

      BaileyWeasley yeah its pretty fun haha

    • @styxnstones98
      @styxnstones98 7 років тому +1

      Jariss Thompson nice I'm just getting into the hobby I played a little of 4e before but not many session

  • @JustmiracleLive
    @JustmiracleLive 2 роки тому +2

    When I watched this video for the first time I got inspired. I started running my first attempt that horribly failed, then i got some of my Dutch only speaking friends who said they wanted to play and now I’m knees deep in a campaign where they shape everything whilst trying to translate/make the game in Dutch. Fuck my life, but totally worth it would do 5 years earlier if I knew about dnd then.

  • @SnarkTheButcher
    @SnarkTheButcher 7 років тому

    Thanks for all the new stuff to think about, Matt!

  • @fien111
    @fien111 5 років тому +9

    20:30
    "Heard you had a tough time in the Barrow"
    "Sure did! Got jumped by half a dozen specters!"
    "Wow, how'd you survive?"
    "I didn't! I died!.......any powerful clerics come into town recently?"

  • @hado1115
    @hado1115 7 років тому +3

    yes! new content :D

  • @Moribis
    @Moribis 7 років тому +1

    I read about this Game/style years ago and I've been hyped about it ever since. I think it has an interesting feel to it while allowing a player made story to evolve out of it. Really glad to see that others feel the same!

  • @thegustbag
    @thegustbag 7 років тому +2

    goddammit, I love this man.
    every single second of this video is gold

  • @Loxard
    @Loxard 7 років тому +38

    I played a west marches game for a couple of months but didn't really like it, since I was always playing with different players and dm's and it was like whatever I did last game storywise and rp-wise, didn't matter. It felt more like a bunch of one shots in a setting than a game where I can have character development. I think min-maxers would like it more than people who like rp. We didn't have a main goal that would've taken many games to unfold.

    • @keanucange
      @keanucange 7 років тому +3

      Yep, I experienced the same thing. Not a fan, of course different strokes for different folks.

    • @e21f1f2
      @e21f1f2 7 років тому +3

      Loxard really? that's interesting. I thought it would be better for rp because there would be a lot more inter-party roleplaying

    • @SMvegas83
      @SMvegas83 7 років тому +9

      +E21 F1F I imagine the boon to RP a game like this could inspire wouldn't be seen as well if there are multiple DMs in the campaign. Especially if they don't communicate the minutia of their sessions to the other DMs. I campaign like this COULD shine on RP if it rewarded good RP and had 1 DM running these sessions for everyone, so the DM always knew when a player/character was advancing the RP story of a player. Someone above mentioned checking out the West Marches RollPlay done by Steven Lumpkin ... that series is, IMO, an example of how RP could shine on a game styled like this.

    • @stephanie3349
      @stephanie3349 6 років тому

      It's all about how it is managed. I am starting a WM and I am making sure it won't be like that at all.

    • @TheSystemaSystem
      @TheSystemaSystem 5 років тому

      Very interesting point. This is crucial for me as a DM. Thank you.

  • @MrKagemitsu
    @MrKagemitsu 7 років тому +6

    I'm not sure my bunch of DnD nooblets would be ready to roll with something like this, but if there's one point that I took out of this video and will definitely apply to my next games is asking the players what do they want to do next at the end of a session. That way I can write something that is interestiing to them and it takes the responsibility of keeping them entertained all on my own off my shoulders.

    • @Puntosmx
      @Puntosmx 7 років тому +2

      MrKagemitsu Also, check for their backstories.
      Maybe you had the plot hooks there from tge begginning and just didn't identifird them as such.

    • @rblood01
      @rblood01 5 років тому

      I am something of a returning "DnD nooblet" and I would love the idea of trying this out myself, personally. I see it it as a way to flex my roll playing and develop my character. An other way to more focus my skils and learn my abilities with different situations and groups. Perhaps even, run more than one character that I can use and develop and jump into games when the opportunity arises. Imagine the fun... I could be on a quest deep into it and then kick myself when I really think my character should have been a Rogue instead of a fighter.. lol.

  • @mejd16
    @mejd16 7 років тому

    I have now watched all of your videos up to date.
    Thank you so much!

  • @AlexGidra
    @AlexGidra 7 років тому

    One of your most inspirational video. Love it from start to finish. Thank you very much for your work.

  • @Odothuigon
    @Odothuigon 7 років тому +6

    29:11 That should be the episode thumbnail!

    • @shywoofer1620
      @shywoofer1620 7 років тому +2

      Odothuigon he looks so proud how it accidentally aligned with his face lmao

  • @sirmiglos
    @sirmiglos 5 років тому +3

    Dear Matt, I love ur stuff and as a new DM I have a question for you: why does the painting/relief moves between 22:08 and 22:09!? But seriously, this is very interesting and useful stuff. Thank you.

  • @TheFrostedeclipse
    @TheFrostedeclipse 7 років тому

    This was one of my favourite videos from you in a while. This style of game seems so interesting to me!

  • @joshuamcguire4498
    @joshuamcguire4498 7 років тому

    This video (I hope) solved almost all of the issues I've been having with my gaming group for the past few months. Thank you so much!

  • @LiveTheMasquerade
    @LiveTheMasquerade 7 років тому +3

    I super love the tangent about making settings through other games, I'd recommend The Quiet Year (buriedwithoutceremony.com/the-quiet-year/) for making towns there's less of an explicit emphasis on characters but they really quickly crop up anyway

  • @ReigningJ
    @ReigningJ 7 років тому +13

    Custom lightsaber?
    Show and tell Mr. Colville.
    Saberforge? VadersVault?

  • @Dteos94
    @Dteos94 7 років тому

    Thanks Mat. When I started to follow this channel I knew nothing about rpgs, but your tips and experience guided me through my first games as player and as Dm.
    Greetings from Europe,
    Peace, out!

  • @entheo302
    @entheo302 3 роки тому +1

    For a guy I don’t know, you sure are a reliable friend when it comes to consistently having the answers to the questions I have. 🙏🏽

  • @DyrgeAfterDark
    @DyrgeAfterDark 7 років тому +44

    any idea when your Stronghold Rules will be on Kickstarter Matt.
    I'd like to throw some money your way for completely unselfish reasons of course

    • @mcolville
      @mcolville  7 років тому +62

      I think about 2 months.

    • @DyrgeAfterDark
      @DyrgeAfterDark 7 років тому +8

      Thank you Sir I'll be sure to lend my support.

    • @williamhollar6472
      @williamhollar6472 7 років тому +3

      Checking in two months later. How about now?

    • @swampwasp3
      @swampwasp3 7 років тому +2

      Maybe now?

    • @DyrgeAfterDark
      @DyrgeAfterDark 7 років тому +2

      Brilliance takes time and I suspect Matt will deliver something Spectacular

  • @TetrisPhantom
    @TetrisPhantom 6 років тому +7

    I've never heard anyone pronounce "cliques" as "cleeks". My entire life, everyone has pronounced it "clicks". Just nitpicking, good video regardless!

  • @Jawn15
    @Jawn15 4 роки тому

    I am going to have to pick up your books tomorrow. Thank you for all the wonderful content Matt. Your videos always inspire me!

  • @SmokeytheBeer
    @SmokeytheBeer 6 років тому

    Just bought both your books because I have enjoyed this channel so much! I'm looking forward to reading them.

  • @DFAnton
    @DFAnton 7 років тому +20

    "Short video" *30min long*
    Now to watch it.

    • @DyrgeAfterDark
      @DyrgeAfterDark 7 років тому +4

      DFAnton it's a running joke. gives me a smile every time he opens with it

  • @Briansgate
    @Briansgate 7 років тому +3

    Matt, your eyes are looking a bit tired. You working too hard, bud?

    • @mcolville
      @mcolville  7 років тому +12

      Eyes look baggier the later in the day I record, this was recorded around 9PM.

    • @zombiemygod
      @zombiemygod 7 років тому +17

      Quiet, you. He looks as glorious as ever.

    • @Briansgate
      @Briansgate 7 років тому +5

      Just glad he's ok. Burnout is a horrible thing, I'd hate for him to be overloading.

  • @Ask_Momma_Alice
    @Ask_Momma_Alice 7 років тому

    AHHH!!! I've only got 1 left before I'm caught up. Glad this isn't as short as expected. Love your channel and looking forward to future content!

  • @DotJus
    @DotJus 3 роки тому

    Newby DM here and I have been powering through this playlist. Absolutely amazing! Thank you so much.

  • @thebowedacious
    @thebowedacious 2 роки тому

    Thanks for peeling that off for us, really needed that

  • @Hankthewaterbeest
    @Hankthewaterbeest 7 років тому

    I watched this video because I am co-DMing a Western Marches campaign with another DM, and learned so much, I started this series from the beginning. There is something to learn in every single video. You've inspired so much of my content and my friends have even become better players because of it, even in my standard campaign. Thank you for your help!

  • @johneji
    @johneji 7 років тому +2

    After watching this video I realized that i should DM a West Marches game, which was unknown to me, furthermore all of these tips made me confident that i can do it! Thanks Matt!

  • @JohnDoe-sz9uv
    @JohnDoe-sz9uv 7 років тому +1

    Matt, I took the plunge and bought Priest a couple days ago. I just started reading it and now its 3 am and I realized I've read over a fourth of the book. You have a new fan!

  • @Pixxeria
    @Pixxeria 7 років тому

    This has instantly become one of my favorite videos from Matt!

  • @MatthewLesnewski
    @MatthewLesnewski 6 років тому

    This is amazing, I simply felt my head exploding and expanding with each new novel concept. Listening to Matt, is like listening to a 50-cal machine gun shooting spent uranium tipped D&D bullets. Each thought is a crit and there is loot with every round! Fascinating, I jumped in and watched #30 first, I'm definitely starting over at episode #1 and will be a long time listener.

  • @MikeThepiper
    @MikeThepiper 6 років тому +2

    I am starting a Star Wars West Marches campaign. Thanks for this video, it's definitely helpful

  • @davidsurman
    @davidsurman 4 роки тому

    Revisiting this video, really really fantastic stuff.

  • @Cuix
    @Cuix 7 років тому +2

    "Hopefully a short video," said Matt Colville, not realizing at the time that he had never been more wrong.
    I mean, not like it's problem. Loved this video, super inspiring as always.

  • @mikediebert
    @mikediebert 5 років тому

    I love all of your videos! You Sir are a timeless treasure!

  • @viewer849
    @viewer849 7 років тому

    YES!!! I loved the West Marches on RollPlay a long time ago. The whole concept is so versatile and flexible.

  • @ChrisMoneymakerDHRG
    @ChrisMoneymakerDHRG 7 років тому

    I hope to see the campaign setting reviews soon. I have been looking forward to hearing your take on the settings for months. Keep posting and Ill keep watching.

  • @jacobgordillo6476
    @jacobgordillo6476 7 років тому

    I dont care how long your videos are because I can always count on them being interesting and informative. So many tubers make short D&D videos that are unwatchable and fluffy. You do it right every time Matt. Thank you.

  • @tatsu280
    @tatsu280 7 років тому

    So literally an hour before this came out, I was rewatching your video on the Deck of Many Things (one of my favorite topics you've talked about) and thinking "Man, it's already been a week since the last episode. When's the next one? I'm jonesing for it!" Then you uploaded this. Idk what it is about your videos, but I genuinely sit in anticipation for your next tip. I'm just about days away from starting my first dm campaign and I'm dying for every tip you have to give before it begins.
    Long story short, I really appreciate not just the advice, but the tangents and stories, and even references, you provide that, however minor they are, provide massive inspiration to me.

  • @donovk
    @donovk 7 років тому

    Great video, been loving all the content on D&D you've been putting up. I really think my last game session was one of my best from following some tips and tricks from your channel.

  • @swiggityswooty3497
    @swiggityswooty3497 7 років тому

    Thanks this is really helpful and interesting Matt, I always look forward to your content

  • @MatsuHiroshi
    @MatsuHiroshi 7 років тому

    I've been wanting to run a west marches style campaign for months now, and today I just got my copy of the PHB for it and this video comes out. Great timing!

  • @aelithmackinnon8656
    @aelithmackinnon8656 6 років тому

    So I saw this a little over 3 months ago...and promptly implemented it for a player group of about 30 people at my local university.
    We just wrapped up the end of gameplay for the semester (finals > D&D) and are now 70 players strong. I recruited additional DMs too to make it flow better, the final DM guild for the campaign contained 14 DMs of varying skill.
    In 3 months we...
    Played more than 100 sessions.
    More than 600 hours of play.
    Across ~25 adventures.
    We've adapted many rules from earlier editions to accommodate the motivations of players, such as the 3.5e strongholds supplement book.
    It's been CRAZY fun... Thanks man!

  • @raymonddeancona4522
    @raymonddeancona4522 5 років тому

    Love this video, inspired me to start a West Marches style campaign at my local game store. So far so good.

  • @CameronPenner
    @CameronPenner 7 років тому

    Every time I watch one of your videos I have a whole new massive idea about how to play D&D. Now I really want to try running a west marches campaign! Keep up the great content!

  • @Kyburo
    @Kyburo 7 років тому

    Wow. This seems like a great idea! I literally sat down to watch this vid to try and give myself some sort of motivation (in shorter supply as players seem less fussed as the campaign goes on) to prep the next D&D session for my group and this certainly sounds like a potential answer to help me get that motivation back! Thanks as always.

  • @MichaelMaitlen
    @MichaelMaitlen 7 років тому

    Thanks for the awesome videos Matt. You've inspired me to not only get back into D&D after a VERY long hiatus, but I now have a desire to start DMing. I'm also excited that my son is interested in jumping in as either a player or DM! Just bumped into your channel so we've got lots of content to catch up on. Thanks again!

  • @musicalcoder7699
    @musicalcoder7699 7 років тому

    Thanks Matt - Another great video on an interesting subject!

  • @ChadJonesAYelpInTheDark
    @ChadJonesAYelpInTheDark 3 роки тому +1

    Good idea for a "new World" scenario. The heroes are explorers on a newly discovered continent and the only safe spot is the colony that's just starting. The heroes have no history to rely on, no idea what monsters they will encounter, no idea what civilizations are already here.