Preparing a D&D Campaign that LASTS (3 Plot Method)

Summary

In this video, Timothy, also known as Tim, shares his method for creating long-lasting Dungeons & Dragons campaigns called the 'three plot method.' He explains how he structures campaigns with an A plot (the main storyline with a clear ending), B plot (a secondary conflict that interferes with the A plot), and C plot (episodic adventures based on player interests). Tim showcases how these plots interact to create a rich, engaging experience and ensures the campaign doesn't lose momentum. He also discusses two current campaigns and offers a discount code for a Studio Ghibli-inspired setting. Lastly, viewers are treated to a cat video as a fun reward.

Takeaways

• 😀 Timothy uses the 'three plot method' to ensure his D&D campaigns run smoothly without losing player attention.
• 😀 The 'A plot' is the main, overarching story that leads to the end of the campaign, providing a climactic conclusion.
• 😀 The 'B plot' is a secondary, long-term story that interferes with the 'A plot' but doesn't necessarily have to be resolved for the campaign to end.
• 😀 The 'C plot' consists of episodic, player-driven quests that provide smaller, self-contained adventures throughout the campaign.
• 😀 A key part of successful campaign planning is knowing the end of the 'A plot' in advance to avoid dragging out the story indefinitely.
• 😀 B plots should frustrate players and divert their attention but not overshadow the main story until it's time to resolve them.
• 😀 C plots can be flexible and tailored to the players' interests, providing variety in the day-to-day adventuring without detracting from the core story.
• 😀 By integrating lore and items from the 'A plot' into 'C plots', the two can be tied together, keeping players engaged in the larger story.
• 😀 Timothy is running multiple campaigns simultaneously and utilizing his method for both a Quests for the Infinite Staircase adventure and a Studio Ghibli-inspired campaign.
• 😀 The Quests for the Infinite Staircase campaign includes a mix of pre-designed adventures (C plots), a major story about rescuing a maiden (A plot), and a secondary story about the Iron Shadow (B plot).

Q & A

What is the three-plot method Timothy uses for creating long-lasting campaigns?

Timothy’s three-plot method involves breaking a campaign into three components: the A plot (the overarching, final story), the B plot (a secondary conflict that interferes with the A plot), and the C plot (episodic, self-contained adventures). These plots interact and build towards a climactic end while keeping the players engaged.

Why is it important to have an A plot in a campaign?

The A plot provides a clear direction and endpoint for the campaign. Without it, the campaign could drag on indefinitely, losing focus and causing players to lose interest. The A plot offers a satisfying conclusion and a defined ending point for a campaign.

What is the purpose of the B plot in Timothy's method?

The B plot serves as a secondary storyline that interferes with the A plot, frustrating or distracting the players. It is not necessarily resolved but adds layers of complexity to the campaign. The B plot should remain mysterious or aloof, creating challenges that must be dealt with gradually.

How does the C plot function in the three-plot method?

The C plot consists of episodic adventures that are self-contained and not directly related to the A or B plot. These are the day-to-day quests that the players can take on during the campaign. The C plot provides a balance between overarching storylines and shorter, more flexible adventures.

Can a campaign be successful without an A plot?

Yes, it is possible to create a campaign without an A plot that focuses on player interests and character-driven stories. However, the three-plot method guarantees a structured storyline with a climactic end, which can be appealing to players who enjoy a clear direction and eventual closure.

How should the B plot interact with the A plot?

The B plot should interfere with the A plot, creating obstacles or frustrations for the players. It might block progress in the main story or require attention periodically. If the players don’t resolve the B plot, it could create major issues when they try to reach the climax of the A plot.

What is an example of a C plot in Timothy's campaigns?

In the 'Quest for the Infinite Staircase' adventure, the individual quests themselves are C plots. Each quest is a self-contained story that the party goes on, but they are connected to the A plot because they provide tools or information necessary to defeat the Abyssal Lord in the A plot.

Why is having a known endpoint important for the A plot?

Having a known endpoint helps prevent the story from dragging on unnecessarily. It provides structure and purpose, ensuring that the players work towards a resolution. Without an endpoint, the campaign risks becoming repetitive or losing focus.

How do you integrate the A, B, and C plots together effectively?

You integrate the plots by tying the A plot into the C plot through lore, clues, or necessary items. The B plot interferes with both the A and C plots, causing challenges or delays. This creates a balanced and interconnected narrative where each plot influences the others, keeping players engaged and progressing.

What are some tips for running the B plot effectively?

The B plot should remain in the background but always feel present. It should create obstacles that challenge the players, but not be so urgent that it overtakes the A plot. As the story progresses, the players should become more aware of its impact, creating moments of tension or urgency without it overshadowing the main quest.