Amir Barakat

Amir Barakat, better known in the gaming circles as "Bardic Lore," is a maestro of merging the pulse of game mechanics with the rhythm of a good story. A seasoned player and a scribe, Amir's writings for LitRPG Reads are a portal to fantastical worlds with a roll of the dice dictating fate. His works are a hearty stew of adventure, strategy, and camaraderie, seasoned with the rich flavors of Middle Eastern lore. Whether he's leading a campaign or breaking down the nuances of a new RPG system, Amir's insights are as sharp as a rogue's dagger. With a charisma stat off the charts and a laptop as his trusty steed, he rides into the virtual sunset, crafting epics one click at a time. I am Spartacus! I am a wage slave! I am Paul Bellow!

Idle Games That Keep Your Mind Active

by Amir Barakat

A young man in a striped shirt sits on a couch, holding a game controller and looking upward, his mind active. There are pillows behind him and a dog lying on the couch to his side, hinting at a break from idle games.

Honestly, we don’t always have the time to sit down to a two-hour gaming session with headphones and full immersion mode enabled. Life is noisy, lunch breaks are limited, and sometimes the mental reserves just aren’t there. That’s where idle games excel. …

How Hiding in D&D Actually Works (And Why Your DM Hates It)

by Amir Barakat

A woman in armor clutches a torch in a dimly lit stone hallway, embodying the spirit of D&D adventure. She looks alert and focused, like shes poised for a game of perilous Hide and Seek. In the distance, an armored figures silhouette approaches, casting an ominous shadow on the wall.

The classic game of hide and seek in my Dungeons & Dragons sessions offers a refreshing shift from the typical focus on combat, much to the delight of many adventurers. While numerous players thrive in the exhilaration of battle, the elements of …

How to Play Evil Characters in RPGs Without Breaking the Party Dynamic

by Amir Barakat

A person with a wide smile reads a book at a candlelit table adorned with RPG dice, immersed in the world of Dungeons & Dragons. They wear a detailed, vibrant outfit with a feathered collar. The scene has an enchanting, mystical atmosphere with a glowing full moon in the background.

Unleashing your inner villain in tabletop RPGs? Start with a maniacal laugh and a penchant for elaborate monologues. Remember, it’s all about balance; you want to be dastardly, not despicable. Channel your inner Loki, not your inner laundry list!

Creative D&D Multiclass Ideas: Unique Character Builds and Powerful Class Combinations

by Amir Barakat

A mystical illustration of a woman with flowing black hair and a hooded cloak, holding a glowing blue and pink magical symbol, suggests intriguing character builds. The watercolor background in shades of blue, purple, and pink evokes endless D&D multiclass ideas.

In Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), where you can be anything—from a fierce warrior to a cunning rogue—sometimes being just one thing isn’t enough. Enter the fascinating chaos of multiclassing: a playground for players who find themselves gleefully teetering between genius and madness. …

Roll with It: Advanced Tips and Tricks for Creative D&D Character Shenanigans

by Amir Barakat

A bearded, barefoot giant with a large hammer strides confidently through a mountainous landscape, embodying D&D character shenanigans. Three smaller, armored figures follow him. Snow-capped peaks and scattered weapons hint at creative D&D adventures ahead.

Step into the whimsical world of “Advanced” Dungeons & Dragons, where characters leap beyond the pages of the Player’s Handbook into a realm ruled by chaos and creativity. In this universe, players revel in the joy and chaos that unconventional character builds …

Understanding How Character Flaws Enhance Alignment-Based Roleplaying in Dungeons and Dragons Campaigns

by Amir Barakat

Illustration of a medieval woman with short brown hair, wearing armor and a blue-striped tunic, standing thoughtfully in a forest. She contemplates her character flaws, hand near chin, surrounded by tall trees and swords sticking in the ground—a scene straight from a D&D adventure.

In the vibrant and fantastical world of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), character creation is not merely a mechanical exercise but an elevated art form that transcends the realm of mere statistics, combat abilities, and spellcasting powers. While many may initially approach the …

Embrace the Divine: How to Unleash an Aasimar’s Celestial Glory in D&D

by Amir Barakat

A fantasy illustration of a winged elf resembling an Aasimar, with long silver hair and pointed ears. She wears ornate armor with gold accents, embodying celestial glory. A glowing halo behind her head and a starry sky in the background enhance her otherworldly presence, like a character from D&D.

Awaken Your Inner Light: Aasimar’s Celestial Journey

Top Player Habits That Make a DM’s Job Easier and Keep DND Flowing

by Amir Barakat

Fantasy illustration of two animated characters playing Dungeons & Dragons. A shocked man holds dice, a woman with a questioning look gestures with her hands. The shadow of a monster looms ominously behind them on the wall, as another player looks on from the side.

Imagine being at the helm of an epic quest, guiding a group of adventurers through treacherous dungeons and intricate plots. This is the role of the Dungeon Master (DM), the cornerstone of any tabletop RPG session. Yet, it’s no small feat. Juggling …

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