Writing a samurai or ronin character in fantasy stories takes the legendary figures of real-world Japanese history and placing them against a magical world. They are defined by their skill with the blade and the discipline it takes to get that skill. The warrior is …
Writing a paladin character includes internal struggle, discipline and courage. They fight for something bigger than themselves, fully committed to their cause in thought and action. The paladin archetype as we know it today is basically just a Holy Knight—The Knights of the Round table, …
The 6 best examples of Grimdark fantasy movies and shows are: Conan the Barbarian (1982) The Witcher (2019) Berserk (1997) Game of Thrones (2011) Army of Darkness (1992) Beastmaster (1982) Grimdark fantasy blends elements of horror—gritty violence, dark tones—with tropes of magic, warriors and monsters …
The Fey Wanderer ranger in Dungeons and Dragons 5e leans into the tricky, magical elements of fairies and Fey creatures. This character is a bit more whimsical than your typical monster-hunting survivalist, tapping into a fairy source of Charisma to charm others. Plus, I’ll gain …
Forest gnomes in Dungeons and Dragons 5e are some of the most cunning and intelligent characters to play. Therefore, they make fantastic wizards, arcane tricksters and arcane archers. With a +2 bonus to Intelligence and a +1 bonus to Dexterity, this fun-loving character packs a …
For Dungeons and Dragons 5e, Monk Way of Shadow characters should consider: A race with a Dexterity modifier and/or special feature Learn basic monk features using a short sword Use Way of Shadows abilities to enhance subterfuge Implement higher-level monk abilities with the character’s role …
For the Monastic Tradition Way of the Open Hand, consider the following build: Choose a race with high Dexterity and/or Wisdom modifiers. Basic buildout should be for a martial arts specialist. Use combat effects that leverage an opponent’s weakness. Utilize new monk techniques as you …
Consider the following when building a monk following the Way of the Four Elements in DnD 5e. Choose a class with high Dexterity and/or Wisdom modifiers Build a classic monk and choose a monk weapon that relates to your element Lean into the wise sage …
While building a bard of the College of Lore for Dungeons and Dragons 5e, consider the following: Choose race and basic build options to suit a charismatic spell-slinger Lean into College of Lore abilities Find spells for creative problem solving and battle Utilize basic bard abilities …
In 1997, Studio Ghibli and director Hayao Miyazaki released the epic, supernatural story Princess Mononoke. Pulling from familiar Japanese folklore, mythology and Shintoism, Miyazaki creates his own fairy tale with stunning animation and giant wolf gods. These wolves are crucial to the crux of the …