Kiera Mensah

Kiera Mensah is a bright star in the gaming journalism universe. With a smile that disarms and a wit that charms, Kiera's reviews and articles for the latest RPGs are a treasure trove of clever insights and pro-gamer tips. Her passion for storytelling shines through every piece, engaging readers with her lively analysis and captivating narratives. Kiera's pen is her sword, her keyboard her shield, as she navigates the digital realms with ease. She champions the inclusive spirit of gaming, always ready to highlight indie gems or deep-dive into the cultural impact of the medium. Whether it's a nostalgic look back at classic 8-bit adventures or a critical take on the newest VR experience, Kiera's words resonate with gamers of all backgrounds. I am Spartacus! I am a wage slave! I am Paul Bellow!

D&D Alignment Guide: Roleplaying Lawful vs. Chaotic Characters

by Kiera Mensah

In a fantasy scene, two women in armor and robes stand back to back—a study of lawful vs. chaotic characters. One holds a book, the other a magical orb. Theyre flanked by bearded men in cloaks and armor, torches lighting this D&D alignment-themed chamber.

When it comes to Dungeons & Dragons (any edition of D&D), alignments serve as a compass for character behavior, delineating a spectrum where order clashes with chaos. This eternal struggle not only shapes individual actions and narratives but also provides fertile ground …

100 Eccentric and Random Encounter Ideas for a D&D Carnival That’s Spiraled Out of Control

by Kiera Mensah

A hooded adventurer in armor strides through an eccentric, mystical market, where colorful striped tents and glowing lanterns create a D&D Carnival vibe. Beyond the ornate towers lies a foggy scene filled with mysterious figures, offering endless encounter ideas.

Once upon a time, there existed a magical carnival, a kaleidoscope of whimsy and wonder where every corner promised enchantment and every game whispered of delightful mischief. But as the fates would have it, this traveling spectacle has become a chaotic carnival …

How to Handle Romantic Storylines with Confidence in Your Tabletop RPG Sessions

by Kiera Mensah

A diverse group of fantasy characters, including an elf, a mage, a warrior, and a rogue, joyfully roast marshmallows around a campfire. Hearts float above as if from romantic storylines in tabletop RPG sessions. A dog and white ferret join the cheerful scene in a forest clearing with a tent.

Navigating romance in tabletop RPGs is like casting a love spell—beware the critical fails! Do: get consent and keep it lighthearted. Don’t: serenade the dragon or woo your DM for extra loot. Keep it fun, and maybe pack some emotional armor!

How to Run Large-Scale Battles in Dungeons & Dragons Without Slowing the Game

by Kiera Mensah

A determined warrior in battle armor stands at the forefront, gripping a sword, reminiscent of a Dungeons & Dragons hero. The background features medieval soldiers and flags with crosses under a dramatic sky, evoking the intense focus of a tabletop RPG session.

Imagine crafting an epic tableau of clashing armies and roaring dragons, where heroes dart through spears and arrows like shadows. Sounds thrilling, right? But here’s the challenge: running large-scale battles in Dungeons & Dragons can be a daunting task, a balancing act …

Gary Gygax’s Genius DND Worldbuilding Formula (Why It Still Works for DMs & Writers)

by Kiera Mensah

Illustration of a woman with striking gray hair wearing leather armor, holding a flaming torch. Shes standing in a dimly lit, arched stone corridor with stairs in the background, exuding an adventurous spirit akin to a Pathfinder RPG quest.

Picture this: it’s 1975, and your friends are gathered around, clutching character sheets and envisioning themselves as heroes in a mythic realm. All this begins with a spark of imagination, kindled by none other than Gary Gygax. This legendary figure breathed life …

How to Be a Better D&D Player: Helping Your DM Without Driving Them Crazy

by Kiera Mensah

A man and woman sit at a table with DND materials. The woman gestures with a speech bubble showing a heart, while the man replies with a warrior silhouette. Various dice and papers are scattered on the table. Shelves and game art are in the background, capturing the essence of tabletop RPG magic.

Imagine sitting at a table surrounded by dice, character sheets, and a map sprawled with tiny figurines. At the helm sits the Dungeon Master, or DM, weaving a rich tapestry of adventure that brings the fantasy world to life. The DM is …

Black Dragons in D&D: The Legendary World Destroyers of the Forgotten Realms

by Kiera Mensah

In an epic fantasy scene reminiscent of a tabletop RPG, a knight in shining armor, shield and sword in hand, confronts a massive, fiery dragon. Towering stone pillars and a sky alive with lightning add to the Dungeons & Dragons-worthy tension and drama.

Among the pantheon of Dungeons & Dragons creatures, Black Dragons stand out as some of the most terrifying and cunning adversaries adventurers can face. Unlike their more straightforward kin, Black Dragons embody a chilling blend of intellect and malice, lurking in the …

D&D One-Shots Inspired by Classic Video Games: Unique Adventures for Your Next Session

by Kiera Mensah

A futuristic warrior in an armored suit stands in a glowing, alien landscape, reminiscent of a fantasy tabletop RPG. They wield an energy sword and hold a crackling green energy ball. The backdrop features creatures, giant mushrooms, and lightning, creating an intense, otherworldly scene.

For many, the allure of Dungeons & Dragons lies not only in its expansive storytelling potential but also in its ability to adapt and evolve with the imagination of its players. Drawing inspiration from classic video games, one-shots offer a unique opportunity …

One D&D Cleric Subclass Tier List: Best Choices for Every Playstyle in 2025

by Kiera Mensah

A knight in ornate armor wields a hammer, confronting a spectral, hooded figure in a glowing cloak within a stone chamber. The scene teems with mystical energy and ttrpg essence, surrounded by skulls and crosses, evoking a dramatic fantasy confrontation straight out of Dungeons & Dragons.

In the new edition of One D&D, set to be unveiled in the 2024 Player’s Handbook, Cleric subclasses receive a remarkable update, enriching the gameplay with diverse playstyles that cater to a myriad of adventurer preferences. Clerics have always captivated players with …

A Guide to Monster Allies in D&D: Surprising Creatures You Can Befriend

by Kiera Mensah

A confident elf with green hair and red ears, wearing armor, wields a sword in a mystical forest reminiscent of a classic Dungeons & Dragons realm. A large, menacing tree creature with glowing eyes looms behind her as other elves stand vigilant in the background among the trees.

In the vast landscapes of Dungeons & Dragons, not every creature lurking in the shadows is out to devour or destroy your party. In fact, some of these fantastical beings can become invaluable allies, lending not only their unique skills and formidable …

These D&D Monster Encounters Will Have Your Players Rolling (and Not for Initiative!)

by Kiera Mensah

A confident woman in armor holds a sword, standing before a medieval castle as if she has stepped out of a Pathfinder RPG adventure. A cartoonish cloud with a face and spatula floats beside her. The sky is colorful with clouds, and a knight on a tower waves a flag while a bat flies above.

Imagine embarking on an epic quest only to find yourself face-to-face with a gelatinous cube donning a comically oversized chef’s hat, armed with a spatula and an unwavering determination to perfect its culinary skills. It’s encounters like these—brimming with humor and levity—that …

Adding Pirate Factions and Sea Lords to a D&D Campaign

by Kiera Mensah

A woman dressed as a pirate, seemingly plotting her next adventure, sits at a wooden table adorned with maps and a compass. Nearby, a candle flickers beside a bottle. Through the circular window, the moonlit sea reveals a sailing ship—a scene straight from a fantasy ttrpg.

Imagine setting sail in a world where the seas are teeming with adventure and danger. Pirate factions and sea lords can bring life to your Dungeons & Dragons campaign, offering a powerful mix of political intrigue, power struggles, and thrilling naval encounters. …

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