{"@attributes":{"version":"2.0"},"channel":{"title":"PhD20","description":"Ideas and resources for Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop roleplaying games.","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/","language":"en-us","item":[{"title":"The Only Two Questions That Matter for Game Masters","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/atomic-game-mastery\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/atomic-game-mastery\/","description":"Most TTRPG advice tells you what to prep. It should tell you where to start. Two questions that change how game masters prep sessions, build worlds, and more.","pubDate":"Sun, 29 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Don't Let Players Control the Clock","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/control-the-clock\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/control-the-clock\/","description":"Pacing thrives when the game master controls the clock. It struggles when we let the players.","pubDate":"Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Maybe That Big Backstory Isn't So Bad","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/big-backstory\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/big-backstory\/","description":"That one player with the big backstory is giving you a reason to get them interested and engaged with your world. Take advantage of it.","pubDate":"Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Do Our Game Master Notes Matter?","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/do-our-game-master-notes-matter\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/do-our-game-master-notes-matter\/","description":"We talk a lot about game master notes. But do they matter that much?","pubDate":"Sat, 07 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Campaign Worldbuilding: Worlds For Play, Not Encyclopedias","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/campaign-worldbuilding\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/campaign-worldbuilding\/","description":"How to avoid overly lazy or traditional worldbuilding for better campaigns.","pubDate":"Sat, 17 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Dopamine & Dragons Part 2: Longer Adventure Timelines","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/dopamine-and-dragons-longer-timelines\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/dopamine-and-dragons-longer-timelines\/","description":"Our games move too quickly. Up the fantasy and reward by letting time pass.","pubDate":"Sat, 10 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Dopamine & Dragons Part 1: Player Boredom","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/dopamine-and-dragons-boredom\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/dopamine-and-dragons-boredom\/","description":"The fear of player boredom is real. But the problem isn't as scary as we might think.","pubDate":"Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"5 Tips for Using Images in Obsidian","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/5-tips-images-in-obsidian\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/5-tips-images-in-obsidian\/","description":"With a few key ideas and resources in mind, we can do a lot with images in Obsidian while avoiding headaches.","pubDate":"Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Elder Scrolls Style Lore for D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/elder-scrolls-style-lore-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/elder-scrolls-style-lore-dnd\/","description":"Elder Scrolls provides the perfect example for delivering lore in our tabletop roleplaying games.","pubDate":"Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Seeding Secrets and Clues","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/seeding-secrets-and-clues\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/seeding-secrets-and-clues\/","description":"When we seed players with secrets and clues, we pull in aspects of their character and invite exploration.","pubDate":"Sat, 01 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Unprepared and Never Better","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/unprepared-and-never-better\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/unprepared-and-never-better\/","description":"I don't think it's reasonable to advocate for always being unprepared. But there is magic in that space. So maybe from time to time, be unprepared.","pubDate":"Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"How to Build Fantastic Locations for D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-to-build-fantastic-locations-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-to-build-fantastic-locations-dnd\/","description":"Fantastic locations often become the most memorable part of our adventures. Here's how to have more fun building locations that matter.","pubDate":"Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"How to Manage Locations in Obsidian for D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-to-manage-locations-in-obsidian-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-to-manage-locations-in-obsidian-dnd\/","description":"With just a few basic properties, we unlock a lot of powerful capabilities in how we organize and use our location notes.","pubDate":"Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Reflecting on Homebrew Rules for 5E","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/reflecting-on-homebrew-rules-for-5e\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/reflecting-on-homebrew-rules-for-5e\/","description":"Reflecting on two years of using a specific set of homebrew\/optional rules for 5E.","pubDate":"Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Building Better Taverns","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/building-better-taverns\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/building-better-taverns\/","description":"In our games, taverns are often nothing more than a container for information or conflict. Let's fix that.","pubDate":"Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"D&D's 4th Pillar","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/scheduling-and-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/scheduling-and-dnd\/","description":"As a game master, it's frustrating when you've put considerable time into preparing a session only to have it canceled in the 11th hour.","pubDate":"Tue, 02 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Awesome Obsidian Community Plugins for D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/obsidian-community-plugins-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/obsidian-community-plugins-dnd\/","description":"A handful of community plugins can transform your RPG campaign management.","pubDate":"Thu, 03 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Awesome Obsidian Plugins for D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/obsidian-core-plugins-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/obsidian-core-plugins-dnd\/","description":"A handful of core plugins can transform your RPG note-taking.","pubDate":"Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"The Biggest Lie in TTRPGs","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/the-biggest-lie-in-rpgs\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/the-biggest-lie-in-rpgs\/","description":"The idea that you need to worry about game balance when running your game is a myth.","pubDate":"Thu, 19 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Use Your Best Ideas Now","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/use-your-best-ideas-now\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/use-your-best-ideas-now\/","description":"Don't save your awesome ideas for some future moment. Use them now.","pubDate":"Fri, 13 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Organizing Campaigns for D&D in Obsidian","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-campaigns\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-campaigns\/","description":"How to organize multiple D&D campaigns in Obsidian.","pubDate":"Thu, 05 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Overland Travel Is a Dungeon Crawl","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/overland-travel-is-a-dungeon-crawl\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/overland-travel-is-a-dungeon-crawl\/","description":"We don't need to overcomplicate overland travel.","pubDate":"Thu, 29 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"The Kingmaker Companion","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/kingmaker-companion\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/kingmaker-companion\/","description":"The idea of a kingmaker companion is a simple, powerful, and lightweight tool for gamemasters.","pubDate":"Thu, 22 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Making Death Matter","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/making-death-matter\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/making-death-matter\/","description":"The threat of death provides excitement and meaning to our choices as players. 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The same goes for a dragon or beholder.","pubDate":"Thu, 03 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"How to Make a Great RPG Recap","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-to-make-a-great-rpg-recap\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-to-make-a-great-rpg-recap\/","description":"When we establish a ritual and prepare our recaps ahead of time, we can prime the players for a great RPG session.","pubDate":"Thu, 27 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Organizing Obsidian for D&D - Linking","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-links\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-links\/","description":"Obsidian provides powerful linking capabilities.","pubDate":"Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Empty Rooms","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/empty-rooms\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/empty-rooms\/","description":"We fill our games with interesting worlds, dungeons, and stories. Empty rooms are a simple yet powerful tools we can add.","pubDate":"Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Don't Optimize the Fun Out of Your Game","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/dont-optimize-the-fun-out-of-your-game\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/dont-optimize-the-fun-out-of-your-game\/","description":"When we focus on productivity at the expense of the experience, we risk destroying the fun.","pubDate":"Thu, 20 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"An Obsidian Philosophy for Life","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/obsidian-life-philosophy\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/obsidian-life-philosophy\/","description":"A powerful and simple philosophy for using Obsidian for D&D.","pubDate":"Thu, 06 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Organizing an Atlas for D&D in Obsidian","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-atlas\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-atlas\/","description":"How to create an atlas to organize your D&D location notes in Obsidian.","pubDate":"Thu, 30 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Reflections on the 8 Steps of the Lazy GM","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/reflections-on-the-8-steps-of-the-lazy-gm\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/reflections-on-the-8-steps-of-the-lazy-gm\/","description":"Reflections on my time using and pondering the 8 Steps of the Lazy GM.","pubDate":"Thu, 16 Jan 2025 06:45:00 GMT"},{"title":"NPC Paradigm Shift","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/npc-paradigm-shift\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/npc-paradigm-shift\/","description":"With a new mental model, NPCs can transform your Dungeons & Dragons experience.","pubDate":"Thu, 09 Jan 2025 12:45:00 GMT"},{"title":"The Ultimate Guide to TTRPG Campaign Managers in 2025","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/ultimate-guide-ttrpg-campaign-managers\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/ultimate-guide-ttrpg-campaign-managers\/","description":"Campaign management for tabletop roleplaying games can be complex. But it doesn't have to be. These powerful tools will help you manage your game, your way.","pubDate":"Wed, 01 Jan 2025 12:45:00 GMT"},{"title":"A Living World Every Session","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/a-living-world-every-session\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/a-living-world-every-session\/","description":"The ability for players to interact meaningfully with the setting is important in RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons. We need a way to make the world feel alive around the player characters.","pubDate":"Fri, 27 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"The Best Villains","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/best-dnd-villains\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/best-dnd-villains\/","description":"A good villain elevates your Dungeons & Dragons game by creating fun opportunities and lasting memories. But designing and deploying good villains isn\u2019t easy.","pubDate":"Wed, 20 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"My Obsidian Setup for D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/my-obsidian-setup-for-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/my-obsidian-setup-for-dnd\/","description":"This is how I organize my Dungeons & Dragons world and campaigns within Obsidian.","pubDate":"Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"How to Share Your D&D Vault in Obsidian","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-to-share-dnd-vault-obsidian\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-to-share-dnd-vault-obsidian\/","description":"Obsidian is outstanding for managing RPG notes. You own your content. But sharing it isn't easy.","pubDate":"Wed, 16 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Make Each Session Better Than the Last","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/each-dnd-session-better\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/each-dnd-session-better\/","description":"The path to better games starts with inspecting your own. A simple habit of session retrospectives will make each game better than the last.","pubDate":"Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"4D Combat","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/4d-combat\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/4d-combat\/","description":"Combat is the largest \u201cengine\u201d or \u201csubsystem\u201d within the Dungeons & Dragons 5E rules. One under-appreciated aspect of combat encounter design can transform your experience.","pubDate":"Wed, 25 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"How I Prepare for D&D with Obsidian","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-i-prepare-for-dnd-with-obsidian\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/how-i-prepare-for-dnd-with-obsidian\/","description":"A behind-the-screen look at how I prepare D&D sessions using Obsidian and the steps from Return of the Lazy Dungeon Master.","pubDate":"Sat, 14 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Creative Origins","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/creative-origins\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/creative-origins\/","description":"Your experiences and creative origins are more important than any advice article. Revisit what inspires you and lean into it.","pubDate":"Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Power of Polyhedrons","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/power-of-polyhedrons\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/power-of-polyhedrons\/","description":"Dice are more than resolution mechanics. They add tension, suspend disbelief, and create outcomes beyond our imaginations. Trust the dice.","pubDate":"Wed, 17 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"The Elusive Game","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/the-elusive-game\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/the-elusive-game\/","description":"The perfect game is a farce. But the value is in the journey towards it: the deep thinking and reflections along the way.","pubDate":"Tue, 09 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Beyond the Plot in D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/beyond-the-plot-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/beyond-the-plot-dnd\/","description":"The moments beyond the main plot are what bring your D&D world to life. Offer choices just off the beaten path.","pubDate":"Wed, 03 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Books Over AI","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/books-over-ai\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/books-over-ai\/","description":"When you reach for AI instead of a book, you lose the serendipity that fuels creativity. Spend time between the pages.","pubDate":"Wed, 19 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Fast Forward","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/fast-forward-in-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/fast-forward-in-dnd\/","description":"Not every moment needs the spotlight. Skip through the stuff that doesn't matter and focus on the moments that do.","pubDate":"Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Everything is Something","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/everything-is-something\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/everything-is-something\/","description":"Finding nothing is no fun. Reward your players' exploration by making sure everything in your world is something worth discovering.","pubDate":"Mon, 19 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Selling in RPGs","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/selling-in-rpgs\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/selling-in-rpgs\/","description":"Improve roleplay and engagement by selling: amp up what your players give you and sell the actions of those around you.","pubDate":"Mon, 05 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Improving High Level Play","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/improving-high-level-play\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/improving-high-level-play\/","description":"High level play is a different game. Shift your focus from mechanics and impediments to epic stories and world-shaking consequences.","pubDate":"Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Make Your Lore Optional","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/make-lore-optional\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/make-lore-optional\/","description":"Put lore in front of your players in interesting ways but never force them to engage with it. Inspired by lessons from Elder Scrolls.","pubDate":"Mon, 22 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Best of 2023","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/best-of-2023\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/best-of-2023\/","description":"A look back at the best of PhD20 in 2023, from organizing Obsidian for D&D to Shadowdark RPG adventures.","pubDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Organizing Obsidian for D&D | SRD & External Resources","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-srd-external-resources\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-srd-external-resources\/","description":"Don't import the entire SRD at once. Add external resources to your Obsidian vault organically when you need them.","pubDate":"Fri, 15 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Chronicle RPG Adventures with Discord Embeds","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/chronicle-rpgs-with-discord-embeds\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/chronicle-rpgs-with-discord-embeds\/","description":"Use Discord embeds to chronicle your RPG adventures. Give weight to the moments that matter and impress your players.","pubDate":"Fri, 08 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"TTRPG Creators to Follow","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/ttrpg-creators\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/ttrpg-creators\/","description":"A curated list of TTRPG creators that have inspired and provided value over the last decade. Find something new.","pubDate":"Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Getting Started with LegendKeeper for D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/getting-started-with-legendkeeper-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/getting-started-with-legendkeeper-dnd\/","description":"Are you looking for an easy way to manage your D&D campaign? Look no further than LegendKeeper.","pubDate":"Fri, 24 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"The Dark Side of D&D Beyond","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/dark-side-dnd-beyond\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/dark-side-dnd-beyond\/","description":"D&D Beyond\u2019s tools are great. But they come with some unintended consequences that impact our creativity and play.","pubDate":"Fri, 17 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"4 Ways to Improve  Initiative in D&D 5E","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/4-ways-to-improve-initiative-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/4-ways-to-improve-initiative-dnd\/","description":"Initiative doesn't have to slow down the start of combat. Four alternatives that keep the excitement rolling.","pubDate":"Fri, 10 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"3 Myths About Using Published Settings","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/published-settings-3-myths\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/published-settings-3-myths\/","description":"Published settings can be daunting. Debunking three common myths reveals the fun, simplicity, and opportunity they provide.","pubDate":"Sat, 04 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Kobold Hall | A Dungeon Design Exercise","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/kobold-hall-dungeon-design-exercise\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/kobold-hall-dungeon-design-exercise\/","description":"A hands-on exercise for designing better dungeons. Start with a simple map and make it great with secret paths and alternate routes.","pubDate":"Sat, 28 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Why Your Next D&D Campaign Should Use the Nentir Vale","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/nentir-vale-your-next-dnd-game\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/nentir-vale-your-next-dnd-game\/","description":"The Nentir Vale offers the perfect scope, adventure hooks over history, and plenty of room for your own creativity.","pubDate":"Sat, 21 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Organizing Obsidian for D&D | Tags and Properties","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-tags-properties\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-tags-properties\/","description":"Tags and properties help organize your Obsidian vault for D&D. But keep it simple and avoid over-engineering your data.","pubDate":"Sun, 10 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Running Great Gauntlets in Shadowdark RPG","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/running-great-gauntlets-shadowdark-rpg\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/running-great-gauntlets-shadowdark-rpg\/","description":"Tips for running fast and fun gauntlets in Shadowdark RPG, from stoppage time for torches to making death meaningful.","pubDate":"Mon, 31 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"The Dark Contracts | A Level 1-2 Shadowdark RPG Adventure","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/the-dark-contracts-shadowdark-adventure\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/the-dark-contracts-shadowdark-adventure\/","description":"A free one-shot adventure for Shadowdark RPG that twists Arthurian legend into a deadly dungeon crawl. Levels 1-2.","pubDate":"Sat, 22 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Create Your Own Battle Board for D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/create-battle-board-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/create-battle-board-dnd\/","description":"A simple crafting project that gives you a dynamic, reusable battle board to bring to your D&D table each week.","pubDate":"Sat, 15 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Quick Dungeon Map Prep in Obsidian","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/quick-dungeon-map-prep-obsidian\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/quick-dungeon-map-prep-obsidian\/","description":"Quickly prep a published dungeon in Obsidian with interactive map markers linked to your notes and PDF pages.","pubDate":"Sun, 09 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Organizing Obsidian for D&D | The Problem With Plugins","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-problem-with-plugins\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-problem-with-plugins\/","description":"Plugins are amazing but can threaten your vault's future. Abstract plugin syntax to keep your notes clean and portable.","pubDate":"Sun, 25 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Organizing Obsidian for D&D | 3 Principles","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-principles\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-principles\/","description":"Three guiding principles for organizing your Obsidian vault for D&D. Lower the barrier to creation and value connections over structure.","pubDate":"Sun, 18 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Organizing Obsidian for D&D | The Big Picture on Vaults","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-big-picture-vaults\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/organizing-obsidian-dnd-big-picture-vaults\/","description":"When using Obsidian, we should first decide if we want a single vault or many.","pubDate":"Sun, 11 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Atomic Worldbuilding","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/atomic-worldbuilding\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/atomic-worldbuilding\/","description":"Worldbuild to your heart's content by creating small, portable pieces. Only connect them when play requires it.","pubDate":"Sat, 25 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Make Equipment Interesting in D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-12-22-make-equipment-interesting-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-12-22-make-equipment-interesting-dnd\/","description":"Equipment doesn't have to be boring in D&D. A few simple tweaks can make gear exciting and meaningful again.","pubDate":"Thu, 22 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Creating a Basic Interactive Map in Obsidian","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/creating-a-basic-interactive-map-in-obsidian\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/creating-a-basic-interactive-map-in-obsidian\/","description":"Set up an interactive map in Obsidian with markers linked to your notes. A step-by-step guide using the Leaflet plugin.","pubDate":"Fri, 18 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Introducing Discord Share for Obsidian","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/introducing-discord-share-for-obsidian\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/introducing-discord-share-for-obsidian\/","description":"Share content from your Obsidian vault directly to Discord. An Obsidian plugin for game masters who use Discord with their groups.","pubDate":"Mon, 07 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"3 Reasons to Avoid Player Secrets in D&D","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-10-23-3-reasons-to-avoid-player-secrets-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-10-23-3-reasons-to-avoid-player-secrets-dnd\/","description":"Player secrets are easily forgotten, isolate the player, and add unnecessary work for the DM. Here's why you should avoid them.","pubDate":"Sun, 23 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Summoning Spells Suck in 5E","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-09-14-summon-spells-suck-in-5e\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-09-14-summon-spells-suck-in-5e\/","description":"Summoning spells in D&D 5E can grind combat to a halt. Here's a look at the problem and what you can do about it.","pubDate":"Wed, 14 Sep 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Gotta Catch 'Em All: Magic Items","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-08-29-magic-items-gotta-catch-em-all\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-08-29-magic-items-gotta-catch-em-all\/","description":"What can we learn about better magic items by looking at the world of collecting, trading, and evolving creatures in games?","pubDate":"Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"It's Clear That...","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-08-24-its-clear-that\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-08-24-its-clear-that\/","description":"One simple phrase can unstick your players and keep the game moving. When the players don't get it, their characters do.","pubDate":"Wed, 24 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"3 Tips for Becoming a Professional Game Master","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-08-11-3-tips-for-becoming-a-professional-game-master\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-08-11-3-tips-for-becoming-a-professional-game-master\/","description":"Three practical tips to help you start running paid D&D games, from offering variety to filling seats and using the right platform.","pubDate":"Thu, 11 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"3 Things I Learned as a Professional Game Master","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-08-04-3-things-i-learned-as-a-professional-game-master\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-08-04-3-things-i-learned-as-a-professional-game-master\/","description":"People are willing to pay, paying players are invested, and it's not a path to financial freedom. Three things I learned running paid D&D games.","pubDate":"Thu, 04 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Scattered Series of the Infinite Wizard","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-06-13-scattered-series-infinite-wizard\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-06-13-scattered-series-infinite-wizard\/","description":"A collection of twelve magical locations hidden in a pocket dimension, accessible through scattered books. Drop them into any game.","pubDate":"Mon, 13 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Satisfying Player Character Endings","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-05-23-sending-characters-off\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-05-23-sending-characters-off\/","description":"When I finish a long-running D&D campaign, I ensure the last session includes three things for each character: a dream fulfilled, a surprise, and a choice.","pubDate":"Mon, 23 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Simple 5E Sub-Systems for DMs in a Hurry","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-01-20-simple-5e-subsystems\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2022-01-20-simple-5e-subsystems\/","description":"How to create simple sub-systems for D&D 5E by asking three guiding questions. No overly complex homebrew required.","pubDate":"Thu, 20 Jan 2022 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Using D&D PDFs in Obsidian","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-12-23-using-pdfs-obsidian\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-12-23-using-pdfs-obsidian\/","description":"Store your D&D PDFs in Obsidian and link directly to specific pages from your notes. No more scrolling.","pubDate":"Thu, 23 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Getting Started with Obsidian for D&D \u2728","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/getting-started-with-obsidian-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/getting-started-with-obsidian-dnd\/","description":"Obsidian is a powerhouse for organizing and managing roleplaying games like Dungeons & Dragons. This guide will help you get started.","pubDate":"Mon, 20 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Dungeons, Dragons, & Downtime","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-11-09-dungeons-dragons-downtime\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-11-09-dungeons-dragons-downtime\/","description":"Downtime activities are fun but tricky to run. Learn when, where, and how to make the most of downtime in your D&D games.","pubDate":"Tue, 09 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Flaws in Your D&D Game","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-11-06-flaws-in-dnd\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-11-06-flaws-in-dnd\/","description":"Flaws provide unparalleled opportunities for memorable moments in D&D. Here's how to use them to unite the party and rescue the story.","pubDate":"Sat, 06 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Worldbuilding for the Story","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-10-29-worldbuilding-for-story\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-10-29-worldbuilding-for-story\/","description":"Your world serves your story and your story serves your players. Build the world from the story itself and lean into the unimportance of why.","pubDate":"Fri, 29 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Midwest D&D Raid","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-10-13-midwest-dnd-raid\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-10-13-midwest-dnd-raid\/","description":"The story of an epic MMO raid-style D&D one-shot with over a dozen players, two DMs, and a luxury venue.","pubDate":"Wed, 13 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Triad NPCs","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-10-11-triad-npcs\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-10-11-triad-npcs\/","description":"Create interesting NPCs with ease by combining character archetypes. Three is the sweet spot.","pubDate":"Mon, 11 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT"},{"title":"Tools for Enhanced 5E Combat","link":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-02-16-tools-enhanced-combat-5e\/","guid":"https:\/\/phd20.com\/blog\/2021-02-16-tools-enhanced-combat-5e\/","description":"Four battle-tested tools from other editions and games to make your D&D 5E combat more exciting and dynamic.","pubDate":"Tue, 16 Feb 2021 00:00:00 GMT"}]}}