Heidi Jiang

A native Hoosier her whole life, Heidi Jiang discovered her love of gaming at an early age. She’s a big fan of the Super Mario series ... and any book with a mushroom on the cover. In all seriousness, she loves reading and playing just about anything when she finds the time. I am Spartacus! I am a wage slave! I am Paul Bellow! She currently resides in Indiana with her husband, a dog named Lucky, a cat named Oliver, and a couple children rapidly heading toward being teens. Over the years, Heidi Jiang has been a book reviewer, freelance copy editor, editor at a small publishing company, and executive editor at her school’s literary magazine.

Dungeons & Dragons Initiative Guide: Act First, Win Often

by Heidi Jiang

In an enchanted forest, a gnome with a long beard and pointed hat kneels, wand outstretched towards a large dragonfly on a tree. Magical glowing orbs light the scene amid towering trees and dense foliage, as if following an Initiative Guide for Dungeons & Dragons adventures.

Unleash your inner dice sorcerer with the “Dungeons & Dragons Initiative Guide: Act First, Win Often.” Because who doesn’t like to outsmart goblins, dodge dragon breath, and swipe loot before their party even says “I’m rolling for initiative”?

100 Hilarious Haunted Maps Featuring Completely Unhelpful Ghosts for Your D&D Campaigns

by Heidi Jiang

Amidst a fantasy scene, a person clutches a haunted map, surrounded by unhelpful ghosts and two floating lanterns. A hooded figure, dragon, and spectral faces emerge from swirling purple mist in the background. The mysterious atmosphere feels plucked from an epic D&D campaign.

In the deep recesses of history, where dust settles thick on forgotten tomes and ancient artifacts, there lies an undeniable allure to old maps. These scrolls, often discovered in dusty ruins, secret vaults, or within the hoards of treasure-hungry pirates, promise adventure …

The Ultimate Guide to Streamlining Your D&D Inventory Without Losing Your Mind

by Heidi Jiang

A cartoon adventurer, much like a D&D inventory come to life, staggers along a forest path. Their enormous backpack, overflowing with camping gear and trinkets, mirrors the chaotic charm of an unstreamlined journey. Trees and wooden signs mark their winding route.

In the enchanted and intricate world of Dungeons & Dragons, where vast mountains harbor ancient dragons soaring majestically through the skies and dark dungeons plunge deep into the earth, the adventure often extends beyond the mythical creatures and treacherous quests. Players must …

How to Build and Maintain Tension in Your Dungeons & Dragons Campaigns

by Heidi Jiang

A fantasy illustration of an elf with long, wavy hair and pointed ears, reminiscent of a Dungeons & Dragons character. She has a surprised expression and wears detailed armor with intricate designs. Autumn leaves and artistic lines surround her, adding a dynamic feel to the image.

Imagine sitting around the table, the soft clatter of dice echoing amid whispers and silence. This is a scene familiar to many who gather for a game of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). You might ask, “What is the secret sauce that transforms …

100 Magical Maps That Lead to Surprisingly Uninteresting DND Places

by Heidi Jiang

In a vibrant fantasy landscape, a figure in armor and a teal hood holds an intricate map, reminiscent of Pathfinder RPG quests. They stand amidst trees, flowers, and a barn under a starlit sky glowing with a colorful sunset.

In a world steeped in fantasy, where adventures lurk around every corner and treasure awaits under every unturned stone, there’s always room for a laugh at the unexpected. Among the relics and artifacts that promise secrets of great power, magical maps hold …

How to Run Dragons in D&D 5e (2025): DM Tips for Epic Encounters

by Heidi Jiang

Amid the turbulent seas and swirling skies, a fantasy warrior imbued with a glowing green aura confronts a fierce dragon. Like a hero from DND or Pathfinder RPG, they strike with an outstretched hand, emitting powerful energy as waves crash around them.

When people think of Dungeons & Dragons, the iconic dragon springs immediately to mind: majestic, fearsome, and a creature of legends. But what makes these gigantic lizards more than just impressive foes worthy of the bestiary? The truth is, dragons are not …

How to Design Engaging and Realistic General Stores for Your D&D Towns

by Heidi Jiang

A woman in a regal robe stands in a richly decorated antique shop, trying to heal my voice. The room brims with artifacts as two figures examine treasures, the soft, warm glow from candles creating an enchanting ambiance. Sorry the scene isnt longer; its magic lingers briefly like a whispered secret.

In the vast and whimsical world of Dungeons & Dragons, towns serve as sanctuaries, beacons of civilization, and bustling microcosms of life. But what makes a town genuinely impactful to adventurers isn’t just the inn or the local temple—it’s often the general …

The Best Low-Level D&D Encounters for Dungeon Masters to Challenge New Players

by Heidi Jiang

In a misty, eerie landscape, a DND warrior with a sword confronts a looming, monstrous creature with glowing eyes. Other shadowy figures lurk in the background, and discarded swords are scattered across the tabletop RPG scene.

For Dungeon Masters (DMs), creating captivating encounters for low-level parties in Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is as important as a knight carrying a trusty sword. Low-level players are just starting out on their grand adventures, so they need thrilling but manageable challenges. …

Creating a Dark and Gritty D&D Campaign: A Guide to Realism and Consequences

by Heidi Jiang

A fierce warrior in rugged armor crouches with determination in a post-apocalyptic landscape, reminiscent of a Pathfinder RPG setting. Her blue-tinted hair contrasts against the dark, ruined surroundings, while a church steeple and stormy sky enhance the dramatic atmosphere.

In a world where tales of valor and grandeur often dominate, dark fantasy stands as a stark and alluring contrast. It draws us in with its shadows and mysteries, appealing to those who seek more than just the classic tale of heroes …

DND Story Ideas: How to Create an Unforgettable Mystery for Your TTRPG Campaign

by Heidi Jiang

A silver-haired elf in medieval armor examines a book in a dimly lit library, her finger poised as if discovering something crucial for her next DND adventure. Candles flicker around her, and shadowy figures lurk in the background, setting the perfect scene for a tabletop RPG quest.

Mysteries have always captured the human imagination. In Dungeons & Dragons, they offer a nuanced layer of storytelling that can elevate a campaign from the mundane to the truly epic. A mystery weaves together elements of suspense, curiosity, and the thrill of …

D&D Villains: How to Give Them Motivations Players Will Fear & Respect

by Heidi Jiang

Fantasy-inspired Gothic-style illustration of a vampire woman with glowing eyes, wearing ornate armor and a flowing cape, standing in a grand, columned hall. The full moon illuminates the intricate architecture, setting an ideal scene for any Pathfinder RPG adventure.

In the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, where heroes embark on epic quests and face unimaginable dangers, the presence of a well-motivated villain is paramount. You know, a villain whose very essence and goal drive the narrative forward, creating a rich tapestry …

How to Take Session Notes Like a Pro in D&D (Without Slowing Down the Game)

by Heidi Jiang

A group of people play a tabletop role-playing game in a cozy room with bookshelves and arched windows. Dice and papers are scattered on the table. A woman with glasses takes notes while another person gestures animatedly, discussing their favorite low-level encounter. Share your story in the comments!.

Imagine diving into a world of fantasy where every decision can twist the plot, where your actions carve a story unique to your group. This is the essence of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), a game where note-taking plays an invaluable role. While …

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