modern design

Curse of Strahd: Thief of Souls (Session 1)

Dungeons & Dragons 5th ed

GM Playstyle

Leans Exploration

Event Details

Dark FantasyHorror

Technical

Discord Video/Audio
Next session:

$30.00 / week

6 of 6 seats available
View the RPG Club Youth Games Terms of Service.

About the Adventure

About the Adventure

Unravel the mysteries of Ravenloft in this dread adventure for the world’s greatest roleplaying game.

Under raging storm clouds, the vampire Count Strahd von Zarovich stands silhouetted against the ancient walls of Castle Ravenloft. Rumbling thunder pounds the castle spires. The wind’s howling increases as he turns his gaze down toward the village of Barovia.

Far below, yet not beyond his keen eyesight, a party of adventurers has just entered his domain. Strahd’s face forms the barest hint of a smile as his dark plan unfolds. He knew they were coming, and he knows why they came—all according to his plan.

A lightning flash rips through the darkness, but Strahd is gone. Only the howling of the wind fills the midnight air. The master of Castle Ravenloft is having guests for dinner. And you are invited.

 

Dark Souls Variant

This game utilizes the Dark Souls variant for 5th edition gameplay. Become Hollowed, losing your lifespark upon character death. After death, retrieve your souls in order to advance your character level and empower you to take down powerful foes. But be careful, holding on to your lifespark for too long will attract the attention of hunters.

No prior knowledge necessary.

 

How to Prepare

Consider what kind of character you would like to play, but hold your ideas with flexibility. Together, the group will finalize character concepts and create characters during the first session.

Ensure that you have a working mic/headset and webcam (optional, but encouraged).

Create an account at dndbeyond.com

Please join the Discord server upon registration.

 

Materials Provided

The GM will provide you with access to all materials on dndbeyond.

Syrinscape will be available for game immersion.

In addition to the game-specific Discord server, you will be added to the EJ RPG server and become part of a growing community of like-minded people.

 

Who will like this game?

Fans of the Strahd, Van Helsing, Dracula, Dark Souls, and Bloodborne will enjoy this game; players of TTRPGs, and people who want to live an intense and dramatic story of character’s personal development will enjoy this game.

The campaign emphasizes exploration with combat and roleplay falling second and third (in that order); the group composition will help shape the balance in the direction that the players most prefer. EJ typically runs high-exploration games with ample opportunity to roleplay.

If you like contributing to a live and responsive world and the possibility of failure with real-world consequences, you will like this game.

If you would like to explore themes of centuries-long evil and the consequences of evil, you will like this game.

If you would like to find the light in the darkness and enjoy humor despite sorrow, you will like this game.

 

Character Creation Guidelines

Consider what kind of character you would like to play, but hold your ideas with flexibility. Together, the group will finalize character concepts and create characters during the first session.

All official 5e content is available for use (core, non-core, and Tal’Dorei).

Homebrew content may be used upon approval. Kobold Press materials are pre-approved.

Barovia is a particular realm within the Dungeons and Dragons multiverse, and you may wish to pay particular attention to Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft.

Small backstories (or concepts) are encouraged, 3-10 sentences.

 

Gameplay Themes/Content Warnings

This campaign explores themes of desolation, genocide, slavery, prejudice, unadulterated evil, and (possibly) torture. Violence is common, described with PG-13, and occasionally R-rated description.

Game Master XP

5.0
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 33 reviews)
Excellent100%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

EJ is the complete DM

November 14, 2024

As a long-time DM myself I appreciate the little things. EJ is a master of the big things too, don’t get me wrong. The attention he gives to his players in every game is admirable. I have played several different TTRPGs with him and even had him in one of my games. In every case he has been patient, collaborative and selfless in his approach to DMing or playing. If you see one of his games with an empty seat, take it. You will not regret it. I can’t wait for my next opportunity to play with EJ.

John

Patient and Knowledgeable

October 25, 2024

EJ is an incredible DM. He fosters a wonderful environment for both new and experienced players. Providing enough guidance to learn the ropes with your first steps in ttrpg. He also provides enough freedom to allow for creative problems. There is also an adherence to rules when things are not possible to complete, while also respecting the rule of cool when appropriate.

Brett W

Top-notch DM who brings out the best in his players

October 8, 2024

I’ve been playing D&D on and off for more than 30 years, and EJ is by far the best DM I’ve every played with.

He has a true talent in brining out the best of his players, ensuring that everyone is engaged and feels comfortable. He encourages our characters to forge relationships with each other, to have conversations and goals outside the main storyline – but never pushes people to do anything they aren’t comfortable with. His ability to roll with the punches and to never appear flustered or unprepared is truly impressive, and his descriptions, NPC voices and voicing and world building are immersive.

Always prepared, extremely patient with teaching new players, and adept at building a culture and a team out of a group of strangers.

He obviously loves what he does, is very knowlegable and most importantly – he makes it fun!

If you are unsure about playing an RPG, or of playing online with people you don’t know, EJ is the perfect DM for you!

Josh Krause
© 2024 - RPG CLUB. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

All Reviews

5.0
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 33 reviews)
Excellent100%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%
Attributes
teacher
3
community builder
3
engaging storyteller
3
voices and characters
2
expert facilitator
1
rules wizard
1
immersion
1
Avatar for John
John

1 session played

November 14, 2024

As a long-time DM myself I appreciate the little things. EJ is a master of the big things too, don't get me wrong. The attention he gives to his players in every game is admirable. I have played several different TTRPGs with him and even had him in one of my games. In every case he has been patient, collaborative and selfless in his approach to DMing or playing. If you see one of his games with an empty seat, take it. You will not regret it. I can't wait for my next opportunity to play with EJ.

Avatar for Brett W
Brett W (Verified)

47 sessions played

October 25, 2024

EJ is an incredible DM. He fosters a wonderful environment for both new and experienced players. Providing enough guidance to learn the ropes with your first steps in ttrpg. He also provides enough freedom to allow for creative problems. There is also an adherence to rules when things are not possible to complete, while also respecting the rule of cool when appropriate.

Avatar for Josh Krause
Josh Krause (Verified)

39 sessions played

October 8, 2024

I've been playing D&D on and off for more than 30 years, and EJ is by far the best DM I've every played with. He has a true talent in brining out the best of his players, ensuring that everyone is engaged and feels comfortable. He encourages our characters to forge relationships with each other, to have conversations and goals outside the main storyline - but never pushes people to do anything they aren't comfortable with. His ability to roll with the punches and to never appear flustered or unprepared is truly impressive, and his descriptions, NPC voices and voicing and world building are immersive. Always prepared, extremely patient with teaching new players, and adept at building a culture and a team out of a group of strangers. He obviously loves what he does, is very knowlegable and most importantly - he makes it fun! If you are unsure about playing an RPG, or of playing online with people you don't know, EJ is the perfect DM for you!

Avatar for Rebekah Vorhees
Rebekah Vorhees

1 session played

September 29, 2024

I have played in a couple of one shots and am in a longer campaign with EJ as the DM. I was SO nervous to give online rpging a try that I almost backed out, but I am so glad that I didn’t! EJ has made this whole experience comfortable and so much fun! All the players have been so welcoming and kind! If you’re on the fence about trying something like this, EJ is your guy! I promise you won’t regret it!

EJ is great at storytelling and world building. I love the way he describes a scene without skipping a beat! It’s a great time! 🥳

Avatar for Mike M
Mike M

1 session played

September 29, 2024

What an amazing time! First time ever playing online and EJ made it comfortable and so much fun! Been playing D&D and role-playing games most of my life, but never on the computer before. If you’re looking to get into a on line game, he is your guy and an amazing GM! guaranteed fun!

Avatar for Chris
Chris

4 sessions played

August 30, 2024

EJ runs a great session and does a great job of explaining Call of Cthulhu in a way that helped make the game make sense and handed over autonomy very quickly!

Technology - smooth and effortless Discord to supplement theater of the mind and an optional ambient background player created a really casual yet immersive vibe.

Story/Characters - with an easy lead-in and a nice range of pre-made sheets, it was easy to dive in while still customizing characters just enough to give them enough personality to shine in a one shot. The gameplay is fast and smooth, keeping things progressing quickly with clear impact to the world based on our decisions.

EJ was very welcoming and friendly, and really runs a great one-shot. I'd highly recommend giving him a try if you want to learn a new system!

Avatar for Daniel
Daniel

13 sessions played

July 21, 2024

I've been playing in a campaign run by EJ for a few months now, and I have to say, it's hard to imagine playing with another GM at this point. His high level of knowledge and expertise, combined with the mutually respectful (and silly!) environment he cultivates in every group makes for a consistently enjoyable gaming experience. He is so approachable, friendly, thoughtful, helpful, patient, *and* funny.

To put it simply: if you aren't playing with EJ, you are missing out!

Avatar for Landon O'Brien
Landon O'Brien

21 sessions played

June 12, 2024

I played in a level 5 one shot with EJ and one other player, it was an excellent experience. The game had great storytelling details, an interactive world, dangerous combats, and player agency. What more could you want in D&D?

Avatar for Matt
Matt

2 sessions played

May 8, 2024

I was part of a recent campaign and EJ did a fantastic job. The storytelling was great, and the encounters were engaging. Excited to get back in and play again.

Avatar for Alexis CH
Alexis CH

1 session played

April 29, 2024

I had an amazing one shot last night and I had a lot of fun. A small group of people but it was still very entertaining and engaging. Answering any and all questions we had and made it very easy to play! Would def recommend!!!

Avatar for Kris
Kris

16 sessions played

April 19, 2024

This was my first time playing a full campaign and EJ made it amazingly fun! There were so many things that I wanted to do with my character and EJ was always open to it or found ways to make it even more interesting! He's very easy to talk to if you have any sort of questions and I always appreciated how comfortable he made the sessions feel! Our campaign lasted for over a year but it never felt boring and there was always something new or interesting happening! EJ also creates such lasting and impactful moments between characters with his wonderful descriptions and narrations. I am so grateful to have been able to play with him and can't recommend him enough to others!

Avatar for Jenneke
Jenneke

9 sessions played

March 28, 2024

EJ made my first experience playing with RPG Club welcoming, comfortable and enjoyable. Our mini-campaign was full of adventure, zany characters and had lots of room for exploration and roleplay, balanced with plenty of support for new players as a learn-to-play module. Would highly recommend him for beginning and experienced players, alike. Thanks, EJ! Hope to play with you again, soon!

Avatar for Paul Chapman
Paul Chapman

5 sessions played

February 22, 2024

I had the pleasure of finally getting to join one of EJ's games last night, and even though I didnt know much about a system that I had barely heard of, all we needed to bring was ourselves and to be ready to relive our lives as curious Kids.

EJ took the time to include every player, ensured we knew a lot about our little band of player Kids, and guided us along a masterful and cute little adventure as we discovered something amiss while we lived our best lives being Kids, siblings, besties and enjoyed each other's company.

EJ is a wonderful GM. Patient, very engaging. Listens and always happy to help or clarify a rule or situation as we inevitably stumbled into trouble. It was a joy to play, and the time still flew by even as we overran (and he graciously let the one shot play out and not rush us to any finish).

I have been wanting to join a game of EJ's for a while and it did not disappoint. Time zone differences mean it may not happen too often but I will definitely do my best to keep an eye out. Shout out to my fellow Kids (Lauren, Bethany, Dustin) as we all had a blast (and bought way too much ice cream, worms and crackers lol)

Avatar for Kerri
Kerri (Verified)

49 sessions played

February 20, 2024

I started playing with EJ after signing up for Call of Cthulhu. It was my first time playing that system & I have had an absolute blast. EJ is great to collaborate with at the table, he really has his finger on the pulse for what players what & he delivers that for them. Some of my favorite people to play D&D with are connections I’ve made at EJs tables. I really wanted to play a few mini D&D campaigns so I could try out new character ideas & EJ made it happen. I had an absolute blast playing them & look forward to more of them in the future. If you want a collaborative GM who will make sure you have a great time play with EJ!

Avatar for Sonny
Sonny
February 18, 2024

Such a blast and it was so insightful to watch a professional GM at work. You hold the story so well in your head that I could actively see you rolling with the clues we decide to follow and help us fill in gaps through NPC dialogue.

As a GM, myself, sometimes I get way too in my head about things having a linear path and it was a master class watching you work and effortlessly weave player decisions with the story.

And as a person who takes timing very seriously, I love how we were all aware that the time was closing in and ending on a good spot to pause for next session.

The fluidity of your scenes and weaving them with players has helped inform my own GMing so much.

Avatar for Bethany
Bethany

3 sessions played

February 17, 2024

I recently had the pleasure of joining a Delta Green one-shot, led by the exceptional EJ Boston. At the beginning, he did a fantastic job introducing both roleplaying and the specific game we were playing. As a newbie to both, this was particularly helpful, and made me feel much more confident starting the game. During the game, he masterfully led us through the narrative style of play, deftly balancing the time spent on different scenes/characters so we could each pursue different aspects of the mystery. It was such a fun game, and we all had a blast! Couldn't recommend him enough!

Avatar for Dustin
Dustin (Verified)

55 sessions played

February 17, 2024

Highly recommend call of Cthulhu and EJ as a GM! Fun, fair, witty and overall a great experience.

Avatar for Benny M
Benny M

3 sessions played

February 16, 2024

Played Delta Green for the first time, and EJ made it a breeze to get to the core of the rules and hop right into the narrative. EJ employs a multimedia experience and it helps greatly with setting the mood of the scene.

Avatar for Chris E.
Chris E.

5 sessions played

February 16, 2024

I had the good fortune of having EJ as the GM for my first ever game of D&D, and I couldn’t be happier. EJ was kind, patient, and knowledgeable as he guided us through the immersive three-day adventure. He explained game dynamics and character abilities, pivoted with ease to the decisions our group made throughout the campaign, and he was responsive both during and outside the set game times. EJ also ensured each party member had an opportunity to fully participate.

As a brand new player I appreciated that I could ask questions without being made to feel silly or that I was holding up the game. Credit also goes to the great group of adventurers on the Crusty Barnacle without who the experience would have been very different.

I highly recommend EJ as a storyteller and guide for new and experienced players alike. Bonus: he really seems to enjoy himself alongside the players!

Avatar for Kevin
Kevin

1 session played

February 8, 2024

EJ led us through a great game that felt like it was right out of a thriller movie. I felt like I was in the action and EJ's materials storytelling really kept all of us immersed in the story. He was also great at guiding us newcomers to how the game works and it felt like the right balance between tutorial and gameplay.

Avatar for Jeremy
Jeremy
February 7, 2024

Finally had a chance to try out Delta Green, had a blast. Explanation of the rules was simple and enough to get us started quickly, and the case introduction got us into the world with ease. Largely narrative (a style I prefer), we all had plenty of opportunity to describe our actions, reactions, and thoughts as we worked to solve the mystery. EJ did a great job with balancing making space for player narrative while still pushing the story forward.

Avatar for Phoenix
Phoenix (Verified)

27 sessions played

February 2, 2024

To say that EJ is a good GM is an understatement. He is a great collaborative storyteller who adapts to player choices. He fosters a truly special atmosphere.

His enthusiasm creates a safe and inclusive space where everyone feels comfortable exploring their characters and contributing to the narrative. His dedication to your enjoyment shines through, making him a gem in the online DnD community.

If you’re looking for a wonderful GM who will challenge, inspire, and leave you yearning for the next adventure, connect with EJ. You won't be disappointed.

Avatar for Shinotama
Shinotama
January 21, 2024

So this was my first time ever playing the Alien RPG and EJ took my group through all the basic rulings, how to play with this new system along with how to use the software that he wanted to use to give us our sessions experience (Fantasty Grounds).

After the session started we were greated with an atmospheric soundscape and creative descriptions that enabled us to get deep into the game before all of the choas started to envelop and ensue.

I chose to be a Scientist and was turned on faster than a spit roast in a southern BBQ, having all of my fellow players become true to their characters and with EJ helping us to play through our actions even for ones that the game doesn't overly support, meanwhile the whole time helping myself to learn to become a game M.O.T.H.E.R. myself.

Using our audio queues and laughing as a group the level of stress induced by the games mechanics and the tension of the game causing enough to make my real self induce stress and anxiety as I try to survive, I even tried to blow up my fellow colonists which was met with hiliarity and I was allowed to explain how I died in a glory of Grenade Frag and Acid Death!!

It's very hard to find a D/GM these days that isn't trying to push the standard social narative and he understood our group within minutes and made us all feel very comfortable, understanding our choices, social comedy levels and language levels.

I can't thank him enough for getting us into playing this game and I hope we can do more work again together in the future, hands down a chill dude and a great time.

Avatar for Andrew Jackson Flink
Andrew Jackson Flink
January 21, 2024

I recently had the pleasure of participating in an ALIEN RPG session run by EJ Boston (Emmanuel) on this page, and it was nothing short of phenomenal. The scenario, "Hope's Last Day," set against the backdrop of "Hadley's Hope" from the iconic film "Aliens," provided an unforgettable experience that exceeded all expectations.

The pre-packaged scenario delivered a gripping narrative, and the personal agendas woven into the storyline added a surprising level of depth to the characters. Each character was not just a participant but a crucial part of the unfolding drama, making the story feel three-dimensional and highly engaging.

Emmanuel showcased exceptional skills in mastering the game, demonstrating a profound understanding of the source material. What truly set him apart was his ability to seamlessly adapt to our specific player choices, turning the session into a collaborative and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The suspenseful atmosphere created using the Fantasy Grounds app, coupled with carefully chosen music, added an extra layer of immersion. The pacing was impeccable, keeping us on the edge of our seats throughout the entire duration of the session.

The introduction to the Alien RPG ruleset was smooth, with just the right amount of time dedicated to explanation. The use of pre-generated characters with well-defined motivations made it easy for players to immerse themselves in the game. EJ Boston skilfully managed player interactions, allowing us to contribute to the unfolding story, making it a truly collaborative adventure.

In summary, if you're looking for an intense, heart-pounding, and immersive experience that stays true to the Alien universe, EJ Boston is the master storyteller to turn to. This session was not just a game; it was an unforgettable journey into the dark and eerie corridors of storytelling excellence.

Kudos to EJ Boston for creating an extraordinary gaming experience that left a lasting impression!

Avatar for Travis Houser
Travis Houser

4 sessions played

December 30, 2023

I played in a learn to play one shot of The One Ring a couple of weeks ago; this was my first time playing in one of EJ's games, and I had a great time. Learn to plays can be tough, because you are trying to create an engaging story, teach the rules, and provide scenarios within that story to demonstrate the rules in action, all within a single session. EJ did a masterful job, even going slightly beyond our scheduled time slot to make sure the group got to have a combat encounter.

I'm definitely going to play in his games again.

Avatar for Patrick
Patrick

51 sessions played

December 28, 2023

I have had the good fortune of playing with EJ for over three years, and I have thoroughly enjoyed participating in his player sessions.

He accommodates many different playing styles, from the more carefree players to those generally more meticulous (where I would place myself). Additionally, he welcomes players from all backgrounds and will work diligently to ensure each session is inclusive. Finally, EJ comes to each session well-organized for that game's planned course of action but is also very adept when the course of a game pivots unexpectedly.

To anyone reading this who is cautious/nervous about making the next step, I would wholeheartedly recommend EJ as a Game Master; he will take the necessary time to guide you to enable you to make the most out of each session with immersive backgrounds and characters.

Avatar for Lauren
Lauren

47 sessions played

December 15, 2023

EJ is an amazing GM. His games are character-driven, dynamic, fun, challenging, and well-prepped. He is always kind, engages everyone, explains rules in a way that is easy to understand, and has a great sense of humor. I've played four different RPG systems with EJ -- he’s an excellent teacher. Outside of game-time, he’s responsive to questions and ready to give players any support they need.

Avatar for Kristi Lorenz
Kristi Lorenz

20 sessions played

November 22, 2023

Having run this game system before, I knew the chances we would survive would be bleak. EJ made the game an exciting and fun experience. He is a wonderful game master, and I would definitely would play in another of his gsmes. Thanks EJ!!

Avatar for Dan
Dan (Verified)

76 sessions played

November 2, 2023

EJ does a great job of building an exciting and engaging atmosphere whether it's D&D, Cthulhu, or CyberPunk. Which is why I keep coming back, can't recommend his games enough.

Avatar for Austin
Austin
October 31, 2023

I've played a number of games with EJ as DM, now. Every game is always interesting, unique, full of intrigue, humor, action, surprise, sometimes even sadness. He is an excellent DM, he is flexible in his storytelling, and you'd do well to have him run games for you.

Avatar for George
George
October 14, 2023

EJ's story-crafting and character development made our one-shot extremely fun and entertaining. Can't wait to do more in the future!

Avatar for pengwiino
pengwiino
October 5, 2023

EJ lead a game I was unfamiliar with but made it easy and inviting. His storytelling, world building, and characters were great! I'd love to play with him again!

Avatar for Mo
Mo

73 sessions played

October 3, 2023

EJ introduced me and helps teach me new things every game

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