Interested in running tabletop roleplaying games like Dungeons & Dragons, but not sure where to start? Join Counterspell Games, Behind the Screen, and Alcove, for an interactive DM workshop!
Learn directly from Chris Vicari, an author, educator, and professional DM with years of experience both running games and teaching game theory. Chris will also answer audience questions alongside Counterspell Co-Founders Marnie Williams Noble and Nick Noble, while you sip delicious coffee brews from Alcove.
What is a Dungeon Master (DM)?
In tabletop roleplaying games (TTPGs), the Game Master (GM), or Dungeon Master (DM) for the game of D&D, is the role which controls all aspects of the game, except for the actions of the playable characters (PCs). The DM describes the world of the game, and plays all the non-playable characters (NPCs).
What you'll learn in this workshop:
While TTRPGs span many systems, we will be focusing our interactive materials primarily on Dungeons & Dragons.
⭐️ Actionable advice for moving past the fear and getting excited to run your first game.
⭐️ Expert Guidance for how to approach organizing a campaign, building or using modules, and worldbuilding.
⭐️ Practical skills for prepping games, creating memorable NPCs, and staging encounters, so that you feel confident and focused.
📖 Get access to tips and guidance that inspired Chris Vicari's new book, Behind the Screen: A Dungeon Master’s Guide to Crafting Campaigns, releasing December 2026.
Stay tuned for a Q&A!
🌟 After the workshop, Chris will be joined by Marnie & Nick, the co-founders of Counterspell, to answer audience questions on all things GMing, worldbuilding, and game-running.
Never rolled a D20 before? No worries!
This is a great opportunity to explore the world of tabletop games for a spell. And if you regularly play TTRPGs like D&D or Daggerheart, this is the perfect time for you to learn how to run your own games!
We'll see you in The Rift!
About Chris Vicari
Chris is a Fordham faculty member, educational technologist, and certified Dungeon Master (DM) who teaches students how to use games to effect social change. His upcoming book, Behind the Screen: A Dungeon Master's Guide to Crafting Campaigns, walks readers through the craft of running TTRPGs. He shares ongoing work and writing through his Substack, Behind the Screen.
About Counterspell Games
Counterspell Games was founded to make the magic of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) more inclusive, immersive, and flexible enough to fit your busy schedule. Whether it's your first time playing, or you slay dragons for breakfast, you'll love our in-person experiences!
About Alcove
Alcove is a community project from Josiah Forgath & friends that invites you to find your next hideaway in New York by traveling to new destinations, encountering amazing makers and creating lasting memories.