Daggerheart

Daggerheart · Critical Role Daggerheart

Daggerheart

Daggerheart is a fantasy roleplaying game from Darrington Press, designed for character-driven stories and grand, cinematic moments. You play as capable heroes who evolve through tough choices, found-family bonds, and daring action. Expect classic high fantasy with opportunities for political intrigue, exploration, and monster hunting. It welcomes both newcomers and seasoned players, making it perfect for birthdays, offsites, or a regular game night. A professional Game Master crafts the world around your group, then adjusts the tone for cosy, hopeful adventuring or sharper, high-stakes drama.

A typical session feels like an ensemble show. Scenes progress quickly, you speak in character, roll when the outcome is uncertain, and the table helps shape what happens next. Combat is dynamic and tactical, but the focus remains on your choices and relationships. Our Game Masters come prepared with prebuilt heroes if you want to jump in quickly, or will assist you in creating your own. Looking for the right fit and schedule? Browse available Game Masters and find someone who matches your style.

How to play Daggerheart

When the outcome is uncertain, you roll two twelve-sided dice, one representing Hope and the other Fear, add the bonuses from your character sheet, and aim to meet or exceed a difficulty set by the Game Master. The result indicates how well you performed, and the Fear die can introduce a cost or twist, even on a strong success. On your turn, you state your intention, select an appropriate skill, ability, or spell, roll the dice, and then describe the outcome alongside the GM. This same rhythm governs combat, exploration, and social interactions.

You bring a character concept, curiosity, and a willingness to collaborate. A professional Game Master provides an adventure, safety tools, character sheets, and dice. Playing online is seamless as well, with voice chat, maps, and handouts managed on modern virtual tabletops. If you plan to play remotely, check out options on online play platforms.

For a one-shot, your GM will quickly immerse you in action with focused objectives, striking set pieces, and a satisfying narrative arc within a single session. In a campaign, your character evolves over time, relationships deepen, and the story expands into politics, travel, and recurring adversaries. Advancement, downtime, and callbacks ensure that choices have significance from session to session.

Player studies a detailed tabletop battle map covered with miniatures, dice and terrain pieces.
Player studies a detailed tabletop battle map covered with miniatures, dice and terrain pieces.
Close-up of a blue eight-sided die with gold numbers, used for tabletop role-playing games like dungeos and dragons.
Close-up of a blue eight-sided die with gold numbers, used for tabletop role-playing games like dungeos and dragons.
Top-down view of a green miniature bush, ideal for tabletop board games like warhammer.

Common questions

Do I need to know the rules to play Daggerheart?

No. Daggerheart teaches well at the table. The core is simple: when it matters, you roll two twelve-sided dice called Hope and Fear, add a bonus, and read both the result and possible cost. A professional Game Master explains as you go, keeps the pace brisk, and offers prebuilt characters if you want to start quickly. If you enjoy learning with extra guidance or prefer a more tactical vibe, you can choose a GM whose style suits you. See examples on GM playstyles.

How does Daggerheart differ from D&D?

Instead of a single d20, you roll Hope and Fear d12s together. You can succeed and still encounter a twist, which keeps scenes dynamic and choices significant. The rules highlight relationships, motives, and consequences, allowing story beats to unfold without extensive preparation or calculations. Combat still involves tactics, but the pace and narrative take precedence. If you're familiar with D&D, expect similar fantasy vibes with less bookkeeping, quicker character setup, and more opportunities for the table to contribute ideas to the evolving scene.

What types of characters can I play in Daggerheart?

You can create well-known fantasy heroes, ranging from martial powerhouses and sneaks to healers and arcane casters. What makes Daggerheart stand out is how your drives, bonds, and signature talents influence outcomes and facilitate growth. You determine how your magic feels or what your fighting style looks like, and the rules support that in gameplay. Want to dive in quickly? Your GM can offer ready-to-play heroes or assist you in crafting a custom build that aligns with the story you wish to tell.

What dice and materials do we need for Daggerheart?

Most rolls use two twelve-sided dice, known as Hope and Fear. A professional Game Master brings character sheets, dice, pencils, and any quick-reference aids the table requires. If you prefer, you can bring your own pair of d12s, but it is not necessary. For online games, digital sheets and dice rollers ensure smooth gameplay. You only need a stable internet connection, voice chat, and a sense of curiosity. The GM manages rules references so you can concentrate on the scene.

Which version of the rules will the GM use?

Your session uses the latest official Daggerheart rules from Darrington Press. If you have seen older previews, expect some refinements and wording adjustments, but the table experience remains clear and quick. A professional Game Master will keep track of updates and explain any new elements in straightforward terms before they become relevant. If your group has a specific preference, please mention it at the time of booking, and the GM will confirm what best suits your session plan.

Is Daggerheart appropriate for children or mixed age groups?

Yes. The Hope and Fear mechanic allows the GM to adjust stakes so that scenes remain thrilling without becoming too dark. Clear actions, collaborative storytelling, and safety tools help younger or less experienced players feel at ease. The group collectively determines boundaries and tone, while the GM presents consequences in age-appropriate ways, ensuring heroics remain a priority. This approach is ideal for families, school clubs, birthday parties, and adults seeking a hopeful, adventurous atmosphere.

Can I bring my D&D character idea into Daggerheart?

There isn't a direct one-to-one conversion, but the concept generally translates well. Share what defines your hero, such as a sworn oath, a signature spell, or a combat style, and the GM will assist in reconstructing it using Daggerheart options to ensure it feels right at the table. Iconic gear and abilities receive story-first equivalents, and you'll uncover new hooks through bonds and drives. Need help finding a GM to match that idea? Browse available Game Masters.

Booking Form


Click to select dates

0/1500
Illustration of a dragon perched on a rock, with wings spread and detailed line art, similar to a dragon from LOTR.

Sent!

Illustration of a dragon perched on a rock, with wings spread and detailed line art, similar to a dragon from LOTR.

Nat 1, give it another go!

Please try again or email info@storyforgers.nz

Genres you can play in Daggerheart

  • Heroic

    Stand tall, make the right choice, and triumph in the end. Heroic games evoke the spirit of The Lord of the Rings, featuring brave oaths…

    View genre: Heroic
  • Epic

    Grand tales of world-altering stakes and legendary heroes, from the initial spark to the ultimate showdown. Imagine the scale of The Lord…

    View genre: Epic
  • Exploration

    Set out with a map and a question. Exploration stories pursue horizons, chart ruins and wilderness, and reward curiosity, much like Indiana…

    View genre: Exploration
  • Medieval

    Knights, castles, guild halls, and the burden of oaths. Feudal politics, harsh winters, and hard-earned honour, much like Game of Thrones…

    View genre: Medieval

What players think

  • It was an amazing experience for the girls! Thank you, Marie! You were incredibly well prepared, the girls were captivated by your every word, and it felt like you had been playing together for years! Looking forward to seeing you next time!

    Annick

  • Tom was fantastic! He was really great with the kids and patient with his explanations. It was a wonderful evening and definitely worth doing again! The children asked the next day when we would be doing this again.

    Danny

  • First of all, I want to say that Sebastian was really great as a DM. For his first run as a booked DM, he did a fantastic job. The 3 stars refer to the following: 1. We were disappointed that the adventure was labelled a One Shot yet wasn't a complete story. Discovering that there are two more parts wasn't very positive for us, as it meant there was no satisfying conclusion to the story. 2. As new players, it was difficult for us to understand the English character sheets in such a short time. In German, it would have been much easier. Even receiving the character sheets a few days in advance would have been helpful for preparation. 3. More guidance would be beneficial. Especially for beginners, a more linear one shot would have been preferable. We wasted a large portion of the adventure time doing unnecessary things because we didn't really know how the game worked. Overall, I think the StoryForgers concept is really good and I see a lot of potential in it, especially for introducing new players to D&D. I hope you don't take my feedback the wrong way but see it as honest criticism. Cheers, Mario

    Mario

  • Bryan was exceptional. We had a group with varying levels of experience, and he managed to keep everyone engaged and involved. His positive attitude made the game enjoyable for all. I really appreciated how he could clearly explain what was needed from our less experienced players while also keeping our more seasoned players on their toes with his extensive knowledge of the game. Everyone in our party had a fantastic time thanks to Bryan.

    Jeremy

  • Dayron was fantastic. Well-prepared, punctual, and had a brilliant sense of humour.

    Corey

  • Dayron was fantastic; he provided an excellent experience. Thanks!

    Casey

    The Merry Meeple

  • The game was really engaging. I got a game as a gift for my boyfriend, who is very keen on it, and he was very pleased and appreciated Leonardo's professionalism. I don't have much experience with DnD, but I found the game quite straightforward and enjoyable.

    Marina

  • Baptiste was a fantastic GM who adapted seamlessly to our group and helped us move forward in this one-shot. However, there was one issue with the character sheets provided, as they were not complete or clear. Some of the French translations were quite rough. For instance, our cleric was missing spells, including a healing spell, even though they were meant to have some.

    Pierre

  • Rachel was fantastic; my daughter and her friends left their game saying it was the most fun they’d ever had, and my daughter wanted to sign up for another game with her straight away. She was friendly, and her approach allowed the players to fully immerse themselves in the game by giving them control over how they wanted their actions to unfold. I would definitely work with her again.

    John

Similar gaming systems

  • 13th Age

    • High Fantasy +6
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    13th Age is a fast-paced, story-driven fantasy game based on the classic d20 system. You play as daring heroes connected to influential Icons, whose rivalries influence your adventures, politics, and conflicts. Imagine The Lord of the Rings with grander actions and cinematic battles, ideal for groups seeking excitement and intrigue.

    View system: 13th Age
  • The Dark Eye

    • High Fantasy +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    The Dark Eye is a classic European fantasy featuring rich cultures, living deities, and careful magic. Imagine The Lord of the Rings infused with more folklore and local intrigue. Discover Aventuria, track down legendary creatures, and tackle challenges with steel, cleverness, and courage under the guidance of a professional Game Master.

    View system: The Dark Eye
  • Dragonbane

    • High Fantasy +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Quick, lively fantasy designed for fun and chaos. Dragonbane immerses you in treasure hunts, monster fights, and wild adventures that evoke The Hobbit shared around a campfire. Ideal for both newcomers and seasoned players seeking daring choices, hearty laughs, and genuine danger.

    View system: Dragonbane
  • The One Ring

    • High Fantasy +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Traverse the paths of Middle-earth in The One Ring, the official tabletop RPG inspired by Tolkien. With low magic, deep lore, and hard-won hope, every journey is shaped uniquely. Assemble a Company and face the wilderness, councils, and battles in tales that resonate with The Lord of the Rings.

    View system: The One Ring
  • Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Soulbound

    • High Fantasy +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Stand as legendary heroes entwined by destiny in Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Soulbound. Embark on quests across the Mortal Realms, confronting Chaos, creatures, and deranged deities. If you appreciate the epic scale of God of War, you'll relish this swift, heroic team play with a skilled Game Master.

    View system: Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Soulbound
  • Cosmere Roleplaying Game

    • High Fantasy +6
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Experience Brandon Sanderson's worlds with the official Cosmere Roleplaying Game. Assemble a crew, pledge oaths, and harness unique powers as you pursue mysteries and alter a planet's destiny. If you're a fan of The Stormlight Archive, this captures that grand essence for your gaming table.

    View system: Cosmere Roleplaying Game
  • Dungeons & Dragons

    • High Fantasy +7
    • 1 – 7 players
    • Moderate rules

    Forge your own fantasy tale with Dungeons & Dragons. Create a party of brave heroes, outsmart traps, negotiate with dragons, and claim treasure in vibrant worlds. Imagine the camaraderie of The Lord of the Rings, but you decide the paths, the battles, and the conclusion.

    View system: Dungeons & Dragons
  • Dungeon World

    • High Fantasy +5
    • 2 – 5 players
    • Simple rules

    Quick, story-driven fantasy where heroes make daring choices and the dice add an element of risk. If you enjoy The Lord of the Rings, you'll love thrilling quests, exploring ruins, and facing tough decisions. Ideal for both newcomers and seasoned players seeking fast-paced action and collaboration.

    View system: Dungeon World
  • Fabula Ultima

    • Anime +5
    • 2 – 5 players
    • Moderate rules

    Fabula Ultima brings classic JRPG drama to your table. Join forces for epic battles, daring magic, and deep connections in a narrative reminiscent of Final Fantasy. Ideal for those seeking vibrant heroes, intense emotions, and high fantasy stakes with an anime flair.

    View system: Fabula Ultima
Black diagonal cross icon, commonly used to close popups or dismiss notifications on websites.

We’re Looking for Game Masters!

StoryForgers is seeking enthusiastic and imaginative Dungeon Masters to become part of our team.
Are you keen?