02/26/2025

Running your first one-shot adventure as a new Game Master can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be a rewarding and fun experience. A one-shot is a self-contained adventure meant to be completed in a single session, making it a great way to ease into GMing without the long-term commitment of a full campaign. Here are some tips and tricks to help make your first session successful.

1. Keep It Simple

A one-shot doesn’t need a complex, sprawling narrative. Aim for a straightforward plot with a clear objective, such as:

• Rescue Mission: Save a kidnapped noble before the ransom is paid.
• Monster Hunt: Track down and slay a dangerous creature terrorizing a village.
• Heist: Steal a powerful artifact from a well-guarded fortress.

A simple premise helps players stay engaged and ensures the session doesn’t spiral into too many unresolved threads.

A good one-shot fantasy adventure is Matt Colville’s Delian Tomb. You can see how this adventure was designed and find information about running it here.

2. Use Pre-Made Resources

To reduce prep time, consider using a pre-written one-shot adventure or a published module. Many game systems offer beginner-friendly starter kits with ready-made maps, NPCs, and encounters. If you prefer creating your own, keep the structure loose and modular so you can adjust on the fly.

3. Prepare Your NPCs and Monsters

Create a short list of relevant NPCs with basic descriptions and motivations. For combat encounters, limit yourself to a few enemy types and keep their stats handy. A simple cheat sheet with monster abilities and key DCs (Difficulty Classes) will prevent constant rulebook flipping.

4. Keep Combat Fast-Paced

Combat is one of the biggest time sinks in a one-shot. To keep things moving:

• Use average damage instead of rolling for NPC attacks.
• Limit battles to three or fewer combat encounters in the session.
• Encourage players to declare their actions quickly.
• Use a visible initiative tracker to keep the turn order clear.

5. Establish Clear Goals and Time Limits

Make sure players understand their objective early on, so they don’t waste time on irrelevant side quests. If the session is running long, introduce an in-game timer (e.g., a collapsing dungeon, a villain escaping, or an approaching storm) to create urgency and wrap up the adventure naturally.

ICRPG from Runehammer has some great ideas about running a game using the 3 Ts: Threats, Timers, and Treats. Dungeoncraft did a good review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MX_8-CcCT2c

6. Be Flexible

Players will always surprise you. If they go off track, gently steer them back with an NPC hint or a sudden event. Don’t be afraid to improvise if they solve puzzles in unexpected ways or avoid fights altogether. The goal is to keep the session fun and engaging, not force them down a rigid path.

7. Manage Expectations

Before starting, let your players know this is your first time running a game. Most players will be understanding and supportive. It’s also helpful to briefly explain the tone of the adventure (serious, comedic, heroic, etc.) so they can align their playstyle accordingly.

It is a good idea to do this BEFORE game night.

8. Have a Cheat Sheet Ready

Prepare a one-page reference with:

• A summary of the adventure’s key locations.
• The names and roles of major NPCs.
• DCs for common skill checks.
• A list of conditions and simple rule reminders.

Having this at a glance will save you time looking things up mid-game. It’s also good to have an extra list of names for NPCs, towns/villages, etc handy just in case one of the players ask a random question.

9. End with a Bang

A one-shot should conclude with a satisfying resolution. Whether it’s an epic battle, a dramatic twist, or a hilarious misunderstanding, ensure the adventure has a clear ending. Even if things go off-script, a memorable closing moment will leave your players excited for more.

10. Learn and Improve

After the session, ask your players for feedback. What worked well? What could be improved? Use their insights to refine your approach for future games. The more you DM, the more comfortable you’ll become.

You can always watch YouTube channels and visit websites that give advice on becoming a better DM. I still watch several channels like Seth Skorowsky, Dungeoncraft, etc and I have my own website and YouTube channel!

Final Thoughts

Running your first one-shot is a big milestone, and it’s okay if everything doesn’t go perfectly. The key is to keep things simple, be flexible, and focus on creating a fun experience for everyone. With each session, your confidence and skills as a DM will grow.

Keep on gaming!