One of the hardest tasks for a DnD DM is to think up entire characters on the spot.

Luckily, we have some tips for you.

Thus, we recommend thinking thoroughly about whether you think a DMPC will benefit your adventure.

dnd Keys from the Golden Vault best NPCs split image of an elf, a tiefling and a mind flayer

This way, the players are already receptive to the idea.

You don’t need to do this by yourself.

An interesting example would be Ireena from Curse of Strahd.

Dungeons & Dragons image showing a group of adventurers figuring out a spell.

Give her whatever class the group needs, and you’re good to go.

If they need someone to watch the door, you stay behind.

If they need someone to carry the heavy object, you carry it, and so on.

Split image showing a wizard casting a spell, a paladin with glowing eyes, and a ranger firing a bow from dungeons and dragons.

Want to bring the fantasy world into reality?

Here are some tools and props to help you achieve it.

Drama is good for the story, after all.

A cleric, two adventurers, and two scholars, from Dungeons & Dragons.

If the group lacks a frontline, make them a frontline.

Take Ireena again, for example.

However, if you leave her by herself, she’ll accomplish nothing.

The Sundering Lineup by Tyler Jacobson featuring many different characters from dungeons & dragons like Drizzt Do’Urden, fighters, a sorcerer, a tiefling mage, and many adventurers.

The Sundering Lineup by Tyler Jacobson

Just because it follows the game rules doesn’t mean it’s good for the game.

Alternatively, you could use them to guide conversation during moments of roleplay.

Don’t let your DMPC become the protagonist.

A cleric and a paladin browse books in a library in D&D.

Candlekeep Mysteries Cover Art by Clint Cearley

They’ll just follow the group, do as they’re told, and have no opinion.

Dungeons & Dragons image showing A human Cleric casting Raise Dead.

Raise Dead by Polar Engine

Image of a DND party in a dark cave with red haired girl holding a map and an orc behind her.

Stick Together by Dave Greco

A Party Of Adventurers stand on a cliffside poised for battle in Dungeons & Dragons.

The Sword Coast Adventurer’s Handbook by Tyler Jacobson

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