Whether it's your first time playing as the DM or you've been stuck behind the screen for a while, my top three favorite tools are sure to add flavor to any DnD session.
1. The Dungeons & Dragons Tarot Deck: A 78-Card Deck and Guidebook
I picked up this tarot deck at an anime convention last summer and have since faithfully brought them to every session. Beyond the original artwork and unique major and minor arcana, this interactive tool is perfect for DMs who are homebrewing their own campaign or are unsure where to take the party next.
Each card has its own unique description in the provided guidebook, which includes a standard fortune reading and an event/encounter that the DM can work into the next or current session as a consequence of the player pulling the card.
In my current campaign, I introduce my party to fortune tellers and the like whenever I'm short on ideas on where to go next. This handy DM tool not only provides inspiration for session planning but also adds immersive intrigue for my players. Personally, I award inspiration when a player "fulfills their fortune." (i.e. If they pull a strength card and show unusual bravery, or a knowledge card and display uncanny wit.) But, there are many different ways you can work these into any long-running campaign or one-shot.
Not a DM? These cards make a stunning addition to any DnD fan collection as well. Available for $22.49, you can gain a glimpse of your future today.
2. DBLFeature's RPG Notepads
DBLFeature has so many adorable items in their shop, it's a wonder I have any money in my bank account at all. But, some of my favorite items from this handmade game goods store are their RPG Notepads. From initiative tracking, item descriptions, NPC notes, encounter stats, and even mini-character sheets I always aim to be well stocked in each for whatever the session has in store for me.
DBLFeature now has its own website where you can stock up on all the amazing goods they offer. Check them out at DBLFeature.com and follow them on Instagram @DBLfeautre.
3. Midjourney AI
When I DM I try to provide as many visual aids as possible because I am all about inclusivity! I know not everyone can get as deeply immersed as I can via "theater-of-the-mind" alone, so to help everyone at the table feel like they're really there I utilize MidJourney AI to help me generate images of areas, NPCs, magical items, and more.
Midjourney AI was created and is managed by a small self-funded team. Accessible through Discord, Midjourney AI allows you to generate images by using the prompt: /imagine. Midjourney allows you to create 25 images for free when you sign up and then offers a variety of subscription plans based on your needs. With Midjourney, you can layer images, create image variations, upscale your art, and adjust the ratio. This unlikely tool is perfect for DMs working on homebrews, or for players who would like to generate a life-like portrait of their characters.
I hope you gained some inspiration from my top three favorites round-up! If you're in the market for new DM tools, here at Lovecrafted Dice we also offer a variety of dice sets to get you on a roll.