Master the Infinite: Running an Epic Space-Themed Campaign

Master the Infinite: Running an Epic Space-Themed Campaign

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Tip #1: Go with what you know
3. Tip #2: Turn your game into a point crawl
4. Don't go into too much detail
5. Include non-combat encounters
6. Add combat encounters
7. Conclusion

Running a Space-Themed Campaign: Tips and Tricks 👽🚀

Introduction

Running a space-themed campaign can be both exciting and challenging for Dungeon Masters. With the release of the new 5e Spelljammer books, the popularity of space settings in tabletop gaming is on the rise. Whether you're planning to delve into the infinite Astral Sea or explore the depths of Wild Space, this article will provide you with two simple yet effective tips on how to make running a space game easy and enjoyable. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an interstellar adventure!

Tip #1: Go with what you know 🧙‍♂️

As a Dungeon Master, you are already familiar with the fundamentals of running a campaign. Quests, locations, and NPCs are all part of your repertoire. When transitioning to a space game, there's no need to reinvent the wheel. Stick to what you know and provide your players with exciting quests and engaging starting locations. For example, if the players find themselves on the moon of a gas giant planet, treat each moon as if it were a different continent on the same planet. Instead of sailing the seas, they sail through the sea of space to reach their destinations. This simple change in setting and presentation can create a seamless transition to a space-based campaign.

Pros:

• Familiarity with questing and location-based storytelling makes it easier to adapt to a space game.
• Minimal changes required, allowing for smooth gameplay without overwhelming players.

Cons:

• May lack the novelty factor for experienced players who are looking for a unique space experience.

Tip #2: Turn your game into a point crawl 🌌🗺️

If you're aiming for a more expansive space campaign, consider turning your game into a point crawl. Imagine the solar system or galaxy your players have access to as a vast continent, with each planet or celestial body as a point of interest. Rather than trying to prepare every single location in detail, focus on creating key points and sub-locations within them. For instance, if the players want to visit Jupiter, provide them with specific points of interest such as a docking bay, a space station, or a lost expedition site. This approach gives players a clear sense of direction and purpose while allowing you to fill in the details as needed.

Pros:

• Allows for a sandbox-style campaign with multiple locations to explore.
• Gives players a sense of agency and direction as they choose their destinations.

Cons:

• Requires additional preparation for each point of interest, which can be time-consuming.
• May require frequent reference to notes during gameplay to ensure consistency.

Don't go into too much detail 💫

When planning a space-based campaign, it's essential to strike a balance between preparation and improvisation. Trying to detail every planet, moon, or station can quickly become overwhelming. Instead, focus on preparing a solid foundation of key locations, quests, and NPCs. Leave room for improvisation and rely on your creativity during gameplay. If the players venture off-script or explore uncharted territory, tap into your collection of unused quest ideas and locations from previous campaigns. By repurposing existing content, you can create a dynamic and immersive space campaign.

Include non-combat encounters 🛸

Space travel is not just about combat encounters. Embrace the vastness of space and include non-combat interactions to make the journey more engaging. Consider encounters such as encountering a wounded merchant ship in need of help, stumbling upon a distress beacon from a lost military ship, or experiencing the perils of a leak in the ship's hull. These non-combat encounters add depth to the game and showcase the diverse challenges of space exploration.

Add combat encounters 💥

While non-combat encounters add variety to a space campaign, don't forget to include thrilling combat encounters as well. Space pirates, hostile aliens, or cosmic anomalies can all provide exciting combat encounters for your players. Strike a balance between combat and non-combat encounters to keep the game dynamic and cater to different player preferences.

Conclusion

Running a space-themed campaign doesn't have to be a daunting task. By leveraging your existing DM skills, adapting the set dressing, and focusing on key locations, you can create a captivating and enjoyable space adventure for your players. Remember to strike a balance between preparedness and improvisation and incorporate both combat and non-combat encounters to keep the game engaging. So, embark on your interstellar journey, and may the stars align in your favor!

Resources:

• Space-Themed Quest Ideas
• Non-Combat Encounter Ideas
• Pre-Generated Solar Systems

Highlights:

• Running a space-themed campaign can be made easy by adapting what you already know as a DM.
• Transitioning from land-based campaigns to space can be as simple as changing the set dressing.
• Turning your game into a point crawl allows for a more expansive and exploratory space campaign.
• Strike a balance between preparation and improvisation to avoid overwhelming yourself as a DM.
• Incorporating both combat and non-combat encounters adds depth and variety to a space game.

FAQ

Q: Are there any recommended resources for space-themed campaigns? A: Yes, there are several resources available online that provide space-themed quest ideas, non-combat encounter suggestions, and pre-generated solar systems. You can find some of these resources in the "Resources" section at the end of this article.

Q: How can I make space travel feel perilous and exciting for my players? A: To make space travel feel more perilous, consider incorporating challenges such as ship malfunctions, dangerous cosmic phenomena, or encounters with hostile entities like space pirates or aggressive alien species. These elements will add excitement and tension to your players' journey through the stars.

Q: Is combat the only form of encounter in a space-themed campaign? A: No, combat encounters are just one aspect of a space-themed campaign. It's important to include non-combat encounters as well, such as diplomatic negotiations, exploration of ancient alien ruins, solving intricate puzzles, or encountering unique space phenomena. Incorporating a mix of combat and non-combat encounters will provide a well-rounded gameplay experience.

Q: How much detail should I provide for each location in my space campaign? A: It's important to strike a balance between providing enough detail to immerse your players and avoiding excessive preparation. Focus on key locations and points of interest, and have a general understanding of the overall setting. Consider preparing a few bullet points or notes for each location and leave room for improvisation during gameplay.