Here was the checklist I followed:
- Prepare maps.
- Read the adventure.
- Read the appendices.
- Consider character backgrounds & hooks to each adventure.
- Review and make handouts.
- Collect miniatures for next few sessions.
- Ponder NPCs and their actions.
- Build a campaign soundtrack.
Why is Strahd curse hard?
Curse of Strahd is a notoriously difficult campaign. The combats and treacherous NPCs that players encounter are some of the most deadly in the D&D world. The likelihood of player character death while adventuring in Barovia brings with it some terrific tension for players in an average-sized group.
Do you have to run the curse of Strahd?
Curse of Strahd is a big book with a lot of locations in it. You certainly don’t have to run them all. It’s worth your time to read through the adventure and decide which parts of the adventure resonate with you and which ones don’t.
How is Curse of Strahd like out of the Abyss?
Like Out of the Abyss, each chapter in Curse of Strahd is its own little sandbox with interesting NPCs, strange happenings, cool locations, powerful events, and lots of potential plot hooks. Feel free to fill them out as little or as much as you want.
What to do in Barovia in running Curse of Strahd?
Keep in mind that, as your characters travel through Barovia, you’ll have to stay two steps ahead of them. If they are just about to head into Vallaki, read up ahead of time on the Ruins of Berez, the Wizard of Wines, or the old wizard’s tower so you’re ready to drop in the hooks to go to these locations as the characters wander around Vallaki.
Who is the Raven in Curse of Strahd?
The Vistani at Tser Pool may have warned the party away from there, knowing their destination and based upon what is written on pg. 28. Additionally, the raven should be extremely vocal in trying to ward off the players. Remember, the raven will be in league with the wereravens of Vallaki and essentially a force of good.
