STOP using these BORING DND Plot Hooks!!

Introduction

Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) has a plethora of classic plot hooks that can initiate campaigns. However, many of these have become overused and can sometimes lead to a lackluster gaming experience. In this article, we will delve into some of the most tired D&D plot hooks and provide creative ways to refresh them for a more engaging campaign.

1. The "You All Meet in a Tavern" Cliché

The tavern meeting is a staple in the D&D community, and while it serves as a convenient way to bring characters together, it often lacks excitement. The players may find themselves asking, “Why are we here?”

How to Improve It:

• Common Goal: Create a shared objective that brings everyone to the tavern. This could be a bounty they’re all after or multiple job listings centered around that tavern.
• Shared History: Consider having the characters know each other through letters or previous adventures before meeting, providing depth and context to their gathering.

2. The Railroaded Investigation

Many players have encountered the experience of a "railroaded" investigation, where it feels like their choices and actions don’t impact the story. They may feel more like spectators in someone else's game rather than active participants.

How to Improve It:

• Dynamic Narratives: Allow players freedom to explore various avenues of investigation, with multiple NPCs offering different leads or red herrings that can mislead or guide them.
• Sandbox Approach: Create an environment where players can choose how to investigate, leading to a sense of agency and control.

3. The Missing or Kidnapped Person Plot Hook

The quest to find a missing or kidnapped individual is a common storyline. Though effective, it often feels repetitive and can diminish engagement.

How to Improve It:

• Wanting to Be Found: Instead of a traditional kidnapping, the missing character could be hiding for a compelling reason, creating layers for exploration.
• Cursed Individual: Perhaps the person is cursed and trapped inside their home. This creates an urgent but distinct mission to break the curse rather than just rescue someone.

4. The Mysterious Artifact

Artifacts that are powerful, ancient, and often cursed are common plot devices. However, the quest for an artifact can feel generic and uninspiring.

How to Improve It:

• Sentient Items: Introduce an artifact with sentience. This object could communicate with players and influence decisions, providing rich storytelling opportunities.
• Moral Implications: Tie the artifact’s nature to the players' morality, challenging their choices and creating moral dilemmas.

5. The Village in Peril

The famous village under threat scenario can lead to boredom when every town the players visit is in crisis, as stakes become diminished over time.

How to Improve It:

• Adapting Communities: Instead of seeking to save the town outright, the characters might discover that the villagers have learned to adapt to their perilous situation and are resistant to outside help.
• Political Intrigue: Turn the quest into a political challenge. Players can navigate the local government and societal structures rather than simply defeating a monster.

These common clichés can provide the scaffolding for a campaign but consider these suggestions to breathe new life into your game. Engaging storytelling and player involvement will create a richer experience for everyone.

Keywords

overused plot hooks, D&D, tavern meeting, shared goals, railroaded investigation, player agency, missing persons, artifacts, sentient items, village in peril, political intrigue.

FAQ

What are common D&D plot hooks?

Common D&D plot hooks include "meeting in a tavern," "missing or kidnapped persons," "investigations," "mysterious artifacts," and "villages in peril."

How can I make the tavern meeting more interesting?

To make the tavern meeting more engaging, create a common goal for the characters or give them a shared history that makes their gathering meaningful.

What does a 'railroaded investigation' mean?

A railroaded investigation is when players feel their choices do not impact the story, making them feel like passive participants instead of active agents in the narrative.

How can I refresh the concept of a missing person quest?

You can refresh this concept by making the missing person intentionally hidden or under a curse, making their situation more complex and engaging.

Why are artifacts often considered boring in D&D?

Artifacts can feel boring when they are simply powerful and ancient with no emotional or moral stakes involved. Adding layers, such as sentience or moral implications, can enhance their intrigue.