Isaac Hanson

Isaac Hanson is the wizard behind the curtain when it comes to understanding and dissecting the complex magic systems of Dungeons & Dragons. With a background in mathematics and a love for all things arcane, Isaac has dedicated himself to exploring the mechanics of spellcasting, magical items, and mystical lore. (And rogues. But who doesn't love a thief!) I am Spartacus! I am a wage slave! I am Paul Bellow! At LitRPG Reads, Isaac's articles delve into the nuances of magical classes, spell optimization, magical theory, and much more when he's interested in the topic. His analytical approach brings a scientific edge to the fantastical world of D&D, helping players maximize their magical prowess and understand the underlying principles of their favorite spells. Outside of his writing, Isaac is an avid gamer, both on the tabletop and online. He's also a member of various magic-themed communities and enjoys experimenting with homebrew magical systems. His mantra: "Magic is not just fantasy; it's a science waiting to be understood."

Evolution of Eberron’s Artificer Class 2025: How Magic and Machines Changed DND Forever

by Isaac Hanson

A focused character with drawn features and a partially mechanical arm channels an Artificer Class vibe against a dark, abstract background. Their expression is intense, magic-infused energy coursing through the metallic arm, creating a futuristic, sci-fi atmosphere.

Imagine stepping into a world where magic and machinery hum in perfect harmony, where the spark of invention fuels a society on the brink of wondrous possibilities. Enter Eberron, where the Artificer reigns supreme as the embodiment of arcane innovation. Bursting onto …

Use Random Social Status Rolls to Establish D&D Character Backgrounds

by Isaac Hanson

A young person, wrapped in a tattered blanket, sits against a worn brick wall, wearing a blue hood and boots. Gazing towards the viewer with a small loaf beside them, they seem like a character straight from D&D backgrounds. A shadowy figure walks down the narrow street.

Ah, the brave new TTRPG world where elves might prefer street food over fine dining, and wizards could potentially be sweeping more than just the floor of a grand library. Welcome to the whimsical realm of random social status rolls in D&D …

From Bones to Bank: A Playful Guide to Making Necromancy Profitable and Fun in D&D

by Isaac Hanson

In this lively fantasy tavern scene, the cheerful half-orc bartender expertly serves drinks to animated skeleton patrons. Two skeletons raise their mugs amidst lively chatter. The rustic setting, reminiscent of a D&D 5e campaign, is enhanced by kegs and barrels dotting the cozy ambiance.

In the bustling tavern of adventurers, Bob the Necromancer tapped his staff, summoning not doom, but a ghostly conga line. Who knew raising spirits could be this profitable—and fun? Guests danced, coins clinked, and even skeletons found their groove.

How to Run Engaging Mystery Adventures in D&D

by Isaac Hanson

In a cozy, potion-filled room perfect for D&D mystery adventures, a young elf with pointed ears and long brown hair examines a small bottle at a workbench cluttered with scrolls and tools. Shelves adorned with glowing lights cast an engaging glow on the cloaked figure standing in the background.

Ah, the mysteries of Dungeons & Dragons—a realm where the only thing thicker than a gelatinous cube is a good plot twist. The allure of mystery adventures in D&D lies not just in the thrill of the unknown, but in the joy …

The Complete Guide to Liches in D&D: Origins, Powers, and How to Use Them in Your Campaign

by Isaac Hanson

A young, determined adventurer in a leather outfit stands in an ancient, columned chamber straight out of a tabletop RPG. They look back at a mysterious, cloaked skeletal figure emerging from the shadows. Light streams dramatically, casting shadows on the stone pillars.

In the grand chessboard of the Dungeons & Dragons universe, liches stand not as pawns or rooks, but as the calculating kings and queens orchestrating their moves with precision and foresight. Unlike creatures that rely solely on brute strength, a lich’s true …

The Best High-Level D&D Monsters to Challenge Your Players in Epic Campaigns

by Isaac Hanson

An epic fantasy scene depicts a giant, bearded warrior with a sword engulfed in lightning, confronting a smaller figure on rocky terrain. Stormy skies and mountains amplify the dramatic, illustrated battle reminiscent of DND adventures.

When you’re smashing through a high-level Dungeons & Dragons game, regular foes just don’t cut it anymore. You’re looking for those epic monsters—those beasts that push you to the edge of your seat. High-level monsters bring that “wow” factor and test the …

Half-Elf Roleplaying Guide for Dungeons & Dragons: Embracing Dual Heritage

by Isaac Hanson

Fantasy illustration of an elf warrior wielding a sword, reminiscent of Dungeons & Dragons lore. Shes clad in ornate armor, standing between contrasting landscapes: a fiery sunset on one side and a cool, starry night on the other. Black banners wave dramatically behind her.

Diving into the fantastical realms of Dungeons & Dragons, Half-Elves stand out as one of the most compelling and versatile character options available to players. Why, you ask? It’s simple. Their dual heritage offers a treasure trove of unique storytelling opportunities, conflicts, …

The Best Ways to Keep Your Players on Their Toes in Every D&D Game

by Isaac Hanson

Illustration of a tabletop RPG scene. A person in a hoodie and glasses smiles at the viewer, surrounded by dice, a map, and candles. An excited man with glowing eyes and a fantasy creature appear in the background through a fiery archway, reminiscent of an epic DND adventure.

Imagine you’re deep in the thick of a Dungeons & Dragons session. You’ve set up your character, conjured your spells, sharpened your swords, and drawn intricate maps. But the real question hanging in the air is, “What’s going to happen next?” The …

Classic Literature as D&D Campaigns: Adventure Ideas for Dungeon Masters

by Isaac Hanson

A woman in elaborate gothic attire stands in a stone archway, with long flowing hair and a moonlit castle in the background. Bats fly around as cloaked figures approach, like characters from a fantasy tabletop RPG. Candle flames flicker in the foreground, casting an eerie glow.

Classic literature is a vast and vibrant tapestry of human imagination, providing a treasure trove of inspiration for creating unforgettable Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. From the age-old epics of Homer to the darkly thrilling tales of gothic horror, literature is replete with …

Why Do Players Overthink Everything in D&D? A Deep Dive into Analysis Paralysis

by Isaac Hanson

A group of four people is deep into a Dungeons & Dragons session. The woman in the center looks frustrated, surrounded by dice and character sheets. Two men and another woman sit nearby with varied expressions, while a surprised man has a speech bubble with !.

There’s a certain magic to a game like Dungeons & Dragons, a world where imagination reigns supreme and the possibilities seem endless. Yet, this limitless potential can become a double-edged sword, causing players to dive deep into the labyrinth of their thoughts, …

The Best Non-Combat Encounters for Your D&D Campaign: A Dungeon Master’s Resource

by Isaac Hanson

A person in a long robe with intricate designs stands before a glowing, ornate door. The scene is illuminated by large, mystical symbols on surrounding pillars and glowing cubes, evoking the enchanting world of a fantasy tabletop RPG.

Imagine embarking on a Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) adventure where the journey isn’t defined solely by the clatter of dice in battle. Instead, the world pulses with vibrant interactions and mysteries that beckon far beyond the clash of swords. These are the …

Poker as a Mini-Game: How to Add Stakes and Tension to Your Next DnD Session

by Isaac Hanson

Assorted dice of various shapes and colors, including black and gray, are scattered over a map indicative of a tabletop RPG setting, with lines and circles hinting at a Pathfinder RPG game. White tokens are interspersed among the dice, ready for adventure.

Incorporating a poker mini-game into your Dungeons & Dragons campaign is a great way to bring a refreshing twist to your sessions. Done right, it can introduce a fun, lighthearted element that also adds layers of tension and excitement. Poker isn’t just …

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