Gamemasters, have you ever wanted to try out a new system or game? Or maybe you don't have the time or players for a longer campaign? One shot adventures are perfect for when you want to play a quick game with friends. One of the most fun and challenging ways to play your favorite ttrpg is by writing and running a one-shot adventure. A one-shot is an adventure that can be completed in a single sitting and usually revolves around a specific goal or mission. Here are two great books that will help get you started!
If you're looking for some great one-shot adventures to play, check out our list of 10 great one-shot adventures for your tabletop RPG.
1. "The Sunless Citadel" from Dungeons & Dragons 3.5e
2. "Behind Closed Doors" from Riddlehouse Vol. 1
3. "Escape from the Haunted Cathedral" from Dungeon Crawl Classics #68: People of the Pit
4. "Red Hand of Doom" from Dungeons & Dragons 3.5e
5. " Tomb of Horrors" from Dungeons & Dragons 3.5e
6. "Castle Ravenloft" from Dungeons & Dragons 5e
7. "White Plume Mountain" from Dungeons & Dragons 3.5e
8. "The Lost City of Gaxx" from Dungeon Crawl Classics #82: Secret of the Silent Death
9. "Ravenloft" from Dungeons & Dragons 3.5e
10. "Tricky Trappers" from Tiny Terrors #1
Here are some tips on how to write a great one-shot genre adventure for your tabletop RPG:
1) Decide on the genre of your adventure. This will help you determine the tone, setting, and feel of your adventure. Do you want it to be a light-hearted romp through a fantasy world, or a dark and gritty noir detective story?
2) Choose an interesting setting. This can be anything from a typical medieval kingdom to a post-apocalyptic wasteland. The setting should be rich and detailed, with plenty of room for exploration and adventure.
3) Create compelling characters. The players should be able to identify with the characters and feel like they are a part of their story. The characters should also be interesting and unique, with their own motivations and goals.
4) Write an exciting plot. The plot should be full of twists and turns, and keep the players guessing what will happen next. It should also lead them towards the ultimate goal of the adventure.
5) Be prepared for anything. Be prepared for anything that might come up during the course of the adventure. This includes unexpected events, player actions, and anything else that could potentially throw off your carefully laid plans.
6) Challenge the players. The adventure should be challenging, both mentally and physically. The players should feel like they are in over their heads, and that they are constantly pushed to their limits.
7) Reward the players. The players should be rewarded for their successes, both in-game and out-of-game. This can be anything from experience points to actual prizes.
8) Have fun! Remember, this is supposed to be a fun experience for both you and the players. So make sure to enjoy yourself and have a good time.
With these tips in mind, you're ready to start writing your own one-shot adventure! So get to it, and let your imagination run wild.
For when you need a little help getting back on your feet! Pick up one of our One-Shots, the Tiny Terrors series is great for low level and introductory adventures. Each book comes with everything needed to run it: from maps & clues (or danger!), monsters that might be lurking around every turn - even treasure chests filled with magical loot. If things are still too much work or not enough time? There's always Riddlehouse vol 1... this gem has been crammed full of content, adventure awaits those who dare enter its pages!