Update on these two posts I shared after my big write-up on using ChatGPT to run a D&D game.
I want to be fully transparent:
These two posts were partially written with the help of AI tools like ChatGPT. I drafted some sections myself and used AI to help shape or expand parts of the text.
Behind the scenes, I was also experimenting with AI tools to handle some game mechanics, character tracking, and narrative generation.
Images in those posts were created with AI image tools like DALL-E based on prompts I provided. They weren’t original art or photos I made myself.
While it’s been fascinating exploring how AI and tabletop gaming can intersect, I’ve decided not to pursue running the AI-driven game the way I’d planned. I’m stepping back from this specific concept
Because the posts live on the blockchain and can’t be deleted, I’m leaving this note so anyone coming across them knows they were partially AI-generated and that my plans for the game have changed.
Moving forward, I will not use AI tools for any part of my writing, images, or creative projects. Clear transparency is non-negotiable for me, and I want you to know exactly what’s human and what’s AI.
Thanks for sticking with me through this learning curve and for being part of the ongoing dialogue about where tech and creativity intersect.
Druuvira joins the quest unbeknownst to Thorin. She seeks out a libation in a local tavern amidst the town siege. Follow the adventure along with our ChatGPT Dungeon Master as we wind a tail as old as time.
User as Dru
{Find a local tavern to gather information (and possibly indulge in a drink).}
Druuvira, with her striking appearance and dual-bladed weapon at her side, makes her way through the tumultuous streets of Greenest. She heads towards the local tavern, known as "The Drunken Dragon." Despite the chaos outside, the tavern remains a hub of activity.
Inside "The Drunken Dragon"
The tavern is bustling, filled with townsfolk seeking refuge and sharing hushed conversations about the raid.
The barkeep, a burly man with a concerned expression, serves drinks while trying to maintain order.
A group of off-duty guards in the corner discusses the raiders' possible motives and the dragon's involvement.
Potential Actions for Druuvira:
- {Approach the barkeep for information and a drink, using her charm to gather insights.}
- {Join the conversation with the guards to learn more about the situation and offer assistance.}
- {Listen in on the townsfolk's conversations for rumors or valuable information.}
- {Display her combat skills or her spider, Shadowfang, to gain respect or attention for information gathering.}
- {Enjoy a drink while keeping an ear open for any useful information that might come her way.}
Player Decision:
"What approach does Druuvira take to gather information in the tavern?"
"Does she actively engage with the patrons, or does she prefer to observe from a distance?"
User as Thorin
Thorin's "primary goal is to confirm Cuth's presence and status, or to prepare for immediate action depending on the state of Cuth, but he is also thinking he might need help". He is going to {Climb to the upper floor window for a better view inside, assessing the situation.}
Thorin's Climb to the Upper Floor Window
Thorin, with careful steps and a keen eye on the raiders below, begins his ascent to the upper floor window of the old mill. His goal is clear: assess the situation inside and confirm Cuth's status.
At the Upper Floor Window:
Thorin reaches the window, which provides a clear view of the mill's interior.
Inside, he sees a group of raiders, seemingly on high alert, guarding a tied-up figure that resembles Cuth.
The upper floor offers an advantageous position for Thorin, allowing him to observe without being noticed.
Potential Actions for Thorin:
- {Attempt a stealthy entry through the window to rescue Cuth.}
- {Create a distraction outside to draw some raiders away from Cuth.}
- {Return to town to seek help from allies like Druuvira or town guards.}
- {Use ranged attacks, if available, to quietly neutralize some raiders from his vantage point.}
- {Continue observing to gather more information about the raiders' numbers and plans.}
Player Decision:
"How does Thorin decide to act upon the situation?"
"Is he inclined to take immediate action, or does he prefer to seek reinforcements first?"
User as Thorin
How many raiders does Thorin see inside and what are they armed with?
Thorin's Observation of the Raiders Inside the Mill
From his vantage point at the window, Thorin carefully surveys the interior of the old mill.
Raiders' Details:
Number: Thorin counts a total of five raiders inside the mill.
Armament: They are armed with a mix of swords and crossbows. One of them, seemingly the leader, wears a distinctive amulet.
Disposition: The raiders appear alert but not overly disciplined, occasionally chatting amongst themselves.
Assessment of the Situation:
The number and armament of the raiders present a significant challenge, especially considering the need for stealth to avoid alarming them.
The presence of a leader figure might indicate more strategic importance to their occupation of the mill.
Revised Potential Actions for Thorin:
- {Engage the raiders directly, using surprise to his advantage.}
- {Create a distraction to draw some raiders outside, then sneak in to rescue Cuth.}
- {Use the environment to his advantage, perhaps sabotaging something to cause confusion.}
- {Retreat and seek assistance from Druuvira or other allies in town.}
- {Wait for an opportune moment when the raiders are less alert to make his move.}
Player Decision:
"Considering the number and armament of the raiders, what course of action does Thorin choose?"
"Does he feel confident in handling the situation alone, or does he see the need for backup?"
User as Dru
Dru will {Approach the barkeep for information and a drink, using her charm to gather insights.}, with her characteristic confidence, saunters over to the bar and asks for the strongest ale they have.
Druuvira's Interaction with the Barkeep
Druuvira, exuding her unique blend of confidence and charm, strides up to the barkeep at "The Drunken Dragon." She orders the strongest ale available, her silver hair catching the dim tavern light.
Images was removed.
[Image generated with DALL-E]
The Barkeep's Response:
The barkeep, a burly man with a weary but kind face, pours her a mug of their strongest ale, a robust brew known as "Dragon's Breath."
He leans in, lowering his voice, "It's chaos out there. Raiders and a dragon, of all things! Never seen anything like it in Greenest. You look like you can handle yourself, though."
Gathering Information:
Druuvira learns that the raiders have been attacking sporadically, focusing on looting rather than outright destruction.
The barkeep mentions a rumor that the raiders are part of a larger, more sinister cult, and their interest in Greenest is more than just random pillaging.
He also shares that several townsfolk have mentioned seeing a group of raiders heading towards the old mill, possibly taking prisoners.
Potential Actions for Druuvira:
- {Continue to converse with the barkeep for more detailed information.}
- {Join the guards' table to gain a tactical perspective on the situation.}
- {Decide to investigate the old mill based on the barkeep's information.}
- {Offer her services to the townspeople or the guards for the defense of Greenest.}
- {Enjoy her drink while contemplating her next move.}
Player Decision:
"What does Druuvira choose to do next after gaining this information?"
"Does she feel compelled to take immediate action, or does she prefer to gather more details?"
User as Dru
Dru {Join the guards' table to gain a tactical perspective on the situation.} As Dru walks away from the bar, she casts a glance back at the barkeep and loudly declares, "My friend, remember the name – it's Dru!" Her words echo through the tavern, drawing a few curious glances.
Druuvira's Interaction with the Guards
With a theatrical flair and her signature confidence, Druuvira makes her way to the table where the off-duty guards are gathered. Her announcement of her name garners a mix of reactions from the tavern patrons.
Joining the Guards' Conversation:
The guards, a mix of seasoned veterans and younger recruits, eye Dru with a mix of curiosity and respect.
One of the older guards, a grizzled veteran with a scar across his cheek, nods at her. "Well, Dru, we could use someone like you tonight. This is no ordinary raid. They're organized, and there's too many of them for us to handle alone."
Gathering Tactical Information:
The guards discuss their observations of the raiders' movements and strategies. They note the raiders seem to be searching for something specific in town.
They express concern about the safety of the townspeople and the need to protect key locations, like the keep and the old mill.
They're particularly worried about the dragon, unsure of how to deal with such a formidable threat.
Potential Actions for Druuvira:
- {Offer to assist the guards in formulating a defense plan for the town.}
- {Inquire more about the old mill and what the guards know about it.}
- {Propose a direct assault on a group of raiders to lessen their numbers.}
- {Ask about joining forces with other capable individuals, like Thorin, to tackle the crisis.}
- {Decide to scout the town independently, using the guards' information to guide her actions.}
Player Decision:
"How does Druuvira respond to the guards' concerns and information?"
"Does she opt to collaborate with them, seek out others, or take matters into her own hands?"
User as Thorin
Thorin recalls a map back at Cuth's shop that he will go back to retrieve. Perhaps it will help figure out where he can find some allies {Retreat and seek assistance from Druuvira or other allies in town.} and seek out a location that may have folks that can help.
Thorin's Return to Cuth's Shop for the Map
Thorin carefully descends from his vantage point and makes his way back to Cuth's blacksmith shop, intent on retrieving the map he saw earlier. His mind is set on finding allies and formulating a plan.
At the Blacksmith Shop:
Thorin enters the shop, now silent and empty. He quickly locates the map of Greenest pinned to the wall.
The map is detailed, showing key locations in the town, including the keep, the temple, and various shops and homes.
Analyzing the Map:
Thorin notes the locations that could serve as rallying points for allies, such as the keep and the temple.
He also marks potential safe havens for townsfolk and spots that raiders might target.
Potential Actions for Thorin:
- {Head to the keep to meet with Governor Nighthill and Escobert the Red for organizing a defense.}
- {Visit the temple to seek Sister Garaele's aid and gather more allies.}
- {Scout for Druuvira in town, knowing her skills would be valuable.}
- {Set up an ambush at a strategic location marked on the map to counter the raiders.}
- {Go to a tavern or a gathering spot in hopes of recruiting able-bodied townsfolk to fight back.}
Player Decision:
"Where does Thorin decide to go after retrieving the map?"
"Does he prioritize organizing a defense, finding specific allies, or taking immediate action against the raiders?"
User as Thorin
Thorin wonders if this map got Cuth into trouble. Is there any indication on the map as to why Cuth would have it?
Thorin's Examination of Cuth's Map
Thorin examines the map closely, pondering its significance and why Cuth would have it.
Observations on the Map:
The map is detailed and appears to be recently updated, showing even minor alleys and buildings.
Several locations are marked with Xs, including the old mill, the keep, and a few homes and shops.
There is no obvious indication of why Cuth would have this map, but its detail suggests it could be important for understanding the town's layout and key strategic points.
Potential Reasons for Cuth Having the Map:
- Planning for Defense: Cuth might have been using the map to help plan the town's defense against raids or other threats.
- Personal Interest: As a blacksmith, Cuth could have had a vested interest in the town's layout for business or personal reasons.
- Helping Others: Cuth may have been marking safe routes or shelters for townsfolk to use during emergencies.
- Involvement in Something Bigger: There's a possibility that Cuth was involved in or knew something more about the raiders' plans or other town affairs.
Given this information, Thorin might decide to:
- {Investigate the locations marked with Xs for clues or strategic importance.}
- {Inquire with townsfolk or local authorities about the map and Cuth's intentions.}
- {Use the map to strategically navigate through the town, avoiding danger and seeking allies.}
Player Decision:
"Does Thorin want to investigate the marked locations on the map, or does he have another plan?"
"How does he choose to use this detailed map to his advantage?"
User as Thorin
Thorin stores the map. He is then going to {Go to a tavern or a gathering spot in hopes of recruiting able-bodied townsfolk to fight back.}
Thorin's Visit to the Tavern
Having stored the map securely, Thorin makes his way to "The Drunken Dragon," the local tavern in Greenest. He hopes to recruit some able-bodied townsfolk to aid in the town's defense.
Arrival at "The Drunken Dragon":
The tavern is a mix of tension and hushed conversations as Thorin enters.
He spots a variety of townsfolk, some frightened, others with a determined look in their eyes.
Among the crowd, he notices a striking figure with dark violet skin and silver hair – Druuvira, engaging in conversation with a group of guards.
Potential Actions for Thorin:
- {Approach Druuvira and the guards, introducing himself and seeking their assistance.}
- {Address the tavern's patrons, rallying them with a speech to defend their town.}
- {Quietly move among the townsfolk, gauging their readiness and willingness to fight.}
- {Speak with the barkeep, gathering information and assessing the mood of the townsfolk.}
- {Coordinate with Druuvira and the guards to form a plan of action against the raiders.}
Player Decision:
"How does Thorin proceed in the tavern?"
"Does he seek to join forces with Druuvira, rally the townsfolk, or take a different approach?"
User as Thorin
Thorin has a raging thirst that only a dwarf can appreciate. He approaches the barkeep and asks for a large beer. The table with the Elf and guards looks promising. He will {Approach Druuvira and the guards, introducing himself and seeking their assistance.}
Thorin's Approach to Druuvira and the Guards
Thorin, quenching his dwarf-sized thirst with a large pitcher of beer from the barkeep, makes his way towards the table where Druuvira and the guards are gathered.
Interaction with Druuvira and the Guards:
Thorin introduces himself to Druuvira and the guards, his presence commanding attention.
"I'm Thorin, a paladin devoted to defending those in need. I've seen the destruction outside. Together, we can turn the tide against these raiders."
Druuvira's and Guards' Response:
Druuvira looks Thorin over, a slight smile appearing as she recognizes a fellow warrior's resolve.
The guards, already aware of the dire situation, express their willingness to collaborate.
Formulating a Plan:
Thorin shares his observations from the old mill and his encounter at Cuth's shop.
Druuvira offers her insights from her discussions in the tavern.
Together, they begin to formulate a strategy, combining Thorin's knowledge of the town's layout from Cuth's map with Druuvira's combat skills and the guards' tactical knowledge.
Potential Actions for the Group:
- {Organize a town-wide defense, utilizing the guards and willing townsfolk.}
- {Plan a targeted strike on the raiders at the old mill to rescue Cuth.}
- {Use the map to identify strategic points in town for ambushes or fortifications.}
- {Divide their forces, with some defending key locations while others go on the offensive.}
- {Gather more information or reinforcements before making a move.}
Player Decision:
"How does Thorin, with Druuvira and the guards, choose to proceed?"
"Does he prefer a direct confrontation, a strategic defense, or a different approach?"
Side bar
So what's going on here? We're only 2 rounds into the game and we have a bit of a timeline dependency. Timing on the responses from the players may have a bit of an overlap as the introduction of one player somehow or ideally has to converge the timeline of the initial player.
If you've played D&D before you sort of know everything that is going on in the group and the DM can steer the game subtly. I noticed that ChatGPT did this in some of the potential actions it prompted for Thorin. At this point Dru (IRL) is a step behind so we will see what she responds with and where it takes us.
The timelines, I hope are converging at Dru having just sat with the Guards as Thorin approaches the barkeep for a giant beer. We essentially have a point where there is still an individual response that we are waiting on from Dru, yet Thorin's round has us at a potential group action. As the DM's meat interface, I may have to interpret Dru's response and align it with one of the group actions. It will either be; go it alone (independently) or combine and continue as a group.
Already this is where it could go off the rails as a human DM, having to manage several storylines and details. I think this is where we could see ChatGPT shine.