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.

5E Evolves Beyond DND: Inside Epic Tales of the Valiant from Kobold Press

A warrior draped in a red cape stands before a massive stone portal inscribed with symbols, reminiscent of an adventure from Epic Tales of the Valiant. Four soldiers flank him amid the mountainous terrain, their flags fluttering as light streams through, creating a dramatic DND 5E scene.

In early 2023, the tabletop role-playing community faced a seismic shift when Wizards of the Coast, stewards of Dungeons & Dragons, wavered in their stewardship of the Open Game License (OGL), which had long been a bastion of openness in the gaming …

100 Devious Goblin Traps Hidden in a Gambling Den

A whimsical, devious goblin-like creature stands behind a wooden counter adorned with colorful potion bottles. Totally Safe Potions! banners hang overhead, hinting at a magical market setting. The creature, wearing goggles and a toothy grin, looks like hes up to goblin traps.

Step into a goblin-run gambling den, and you’re stepping into a world of whimsical chaos. Picture a dimly lit, boisterous enclave where goblins, notorious for their love of mischief and cleverness, run the show. These clever creatures have an unparalleled knack for …

Dragon Delves Anthology Unleashed July 2025: D&D’s Ultimate Guide to Dragons

A warrior with flowing hair and armor stands on rocky terrain, confronting a large red dragon in an epic D&D showdown. The dragon breathes fire as its wings spread wide. Sword drawn, the warrior braces for battle beneath an overcast sky, creating the ultimate dramatic backdrop.

Dungeons & Dragons, an illustrious franchise with a history spanning decades, has always been known for its imaginative potential and engaging storytelling. Yet, among its iconic figures, none inspire awe and wonder quite like dragons do. Enter the “Dragon Delves Anthology,” a …

Tips, Tricks, and Traps for Unleashing Your D&D Ranger’s True Power Post-Tasha’s Cauldron

Illustration of an elf ranger with pointed ears, wearing a green cloak and holding a wooden staff. She has a quiver of arrows on her back and stands in a lush forest, reminiscent of Tashas world, with sunlight filtering through the trees.

Ah, Rangers — those enigmatic, bow-wielding wanderers of the wilderness, guided as much by their intuition as by the rustling of leaves and subtle animal tracks. With the release of Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything, the Dungeons & Dragons landscape has transformed into …

100 Bizarre Potions With Side Effects So Crazy They Might Just Ruin DND Forever

In a medieval apothecary, a woman with a scarf and vest holds bizarre potions, her actions mirrored by a glowing ethereal figure. Shelves packed with bottles and pottery bask in the light from large windows, revealing the side effects of her DND-inspired concoctions.

In the whimsical world of tabletop RPGs, where the line between reality and fantasy blurs like a Van Gogh painting in a rainstorm, potions are the spice of life—or, at the very least, the spice of your campaign. Within this enchanting chaos, …

Dungeons & Dragons Initiative Guide: Act First, Win Often

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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 …

D&D Soundtrack Secrets: How the Right Music Can Transform Your Game’s Atmosphere and Player Immersion

In a vibrant tavern scene reminiscent of a bustling Dungeons & Dragons campaign, a woman in historical attire plays her guitar atop a table. Shes surrounded by clapping patrons, with dramatic lighting and colorful details enhancing the lively atmosphere.

In the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, storytelling unfolds in a world only limited by imagination. Here, music becomes more than just an accessory; it’s a powerful tool to build emotions and immerse players in the expansive narrative. Imagine the low hum …

Are Video Games Good For Your Brain?

In a cozy room with warm lighting, a person sits on the couch playing a racing video game on a large TV. Surrounded by shelves and speakers, their hands grip the controller as they navigate through a fantasy cityscape at sunset, merging elements of tabletop RPGs into the adventure.

Gaming could be more than just a fun hobby. It could be a way of actively boosting your brainpower, as well as fending off brain diseases like dementia. This post explores some of the benefits that video games could have on your …

How to Build an Immersive D&D Campaign Centered Around Music and Soundscapes

A woman in a Renaissance-style dress plays a lute, her melodious notes weaving through colorful swirls of red, orange, and blue. In the background, people gather like characters in a DND campaign, blurring into the scene with a warm, dreamy ambiance.

Imagine a world where melodies wield magical power, where a single note can change the tide of battle, and where the harmony of a symphony can reshape reality. In crafting a Dungeons & Dragons campaign centered around music, you’re not merely adding …