Volunteer Dungeon Masters Wanted

GamesHaven is actively seeking volunteer Dungeon Masters to host regular one shot sessions for our growing RPG community.

As many of you know, our regular DM is currently dealing with significant personal challenges and has had to step back from running games for the foreseeable future. We fully support them. In the meantime, we need experienced and enthusiastic storytellers to help keep our tables alive.

We have players. We need Game Masters.

Systems We Are Looking For

We are particularly interested in one shots for:

• Dungeons and Dragons
• Call of Cthulhu
• Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay
• Pathfinder
• Other fantasy or horror tabletop RPG systems
• MorkBorg
• Indie games

If you run something different and think it would resonate, tell us.

Volunteer Benefits

As a volunteer DM at GamesHaven, you will receive:

• 25% discount on GamesHaven stock
• 25% discount on HellsSmells products
• 25% discount on Minifactorum terrain and miniatures
• One pizza or one Hells burger meal per volunteer shift
• One can of drink included per shift
• Free substitutions during your volunteer shift

You are welcome to upgrade to one of the more elaborate burgers by covering the price difference.

What We Need

• Reliable hosts willing to run structured one shot sessions
• Confident table management
• Clear communication with players
• A welcoming, inclusive approach

We are especially keen to establish regular, repeatable one shot evenings that players can depend on.

Interested?

If you are an experienced DM and would like to run sessions at GamesHaven, please get in touch directly.

Our community wants to play.
Help us give them worlds to explore.

VolunteerDM #DungeonMaster #RPGCommunity #DnDNottingham #CallOfCthulhu #WarhammerFRP #PathfinderRPG #TabletopGaming #GamesHaven #NottinghamEvents

https://tabletopgroupfinder.co.uk/listings

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Mana, Mages and Mayhem

Live Playtest at GamesHaven

A new tabletop roleplaying game is coming to the table.

Mana, Mages and Mayhem is an independently developed TTRPG that has been in active development for the past one to two years. This in person playtest session is your opportunity to experience the system first hand and help shape its future.

The Premise

You play as small mages in a chaotic, broken magical world. An ancient disaster has reshaped civilisation. Mana is unstable. The elements are volatile. Survival demands cooperation.

You and your fellow spellcasters travel in search of adventure, riches, and reputation, navigating a world where magic is powerful but rarely predictable.

System Overview

• Classless character creation
• Dice pool resolution system
• Elemental mana management mechanics
• Collaborative spellcasting focus
• Strategic, chaotic combat and problem solving
• Designed for 3 to 6 players per session

Without rigid classes, you are free to build a mage that reflects your preferred style of play. Focus on explosive elemental gambits, careful resource planning, or layered spell combinations with your allies.

Victory depends on thinking ahead, managing risk, and working together.

Inspirations

If you enjoy titles such as:

• Magicka
• Mages of Mystalia
• Wizard of Legend

…this system aims to capture that same energy at the tabletop with pen, paper, and dice.

From the Developer

Hello , I’ve been building a TTRPG for the last 1-2 years and am looking to run a play test in person at Games Haven in the next month or so depending on availability. Currently there are a few people I know who have already shown interest but I wanted to through an open invite out there for anyone else interested. There is no max players currently since I can just run another play test but the game runs for 3-6 players.

I’ve written a small pitch but feel free to ask me anything about the game: Mana, Mages and Mayhem is a tabletop roleplaying game about little Mages in a chaotic magical world, where players must work together managing elemental mana to cast a wide variety of spells. Play is strategic, chaotic, and focused on collaboration. MMM is built to deliver an exciting experience for those brave enough to pull off wild gambits or smart enough to think multiple steps ahead.

Players take the role of small mages who travel seeking adventure, riches and fame, while navigating a world destroyed by an ancient disaster. MMM is a class-less system that makes use of a dice pool rolling system to determine outcomes.

With the class-less system players can build out interesting and unique characters each time with the spells to match the way they want to play. If you enjoy games like Magicka, Mages of Mystalia, or Wizard of Legend and want to try a TTRPG inspired by them then Mana, Mages and Mayhem aims to give you that same feeling but with pen, paper and dice.

Who Should Attend?

• Players interested in indie TTRPG development
• Fans of magic heavy fantasy systems
• Strategic players who enjoy collaborative mechanics
• Anyone curious about testing and influencing a new RPG system

No maximum overall sign ups. Sessions will run with 3 to 6 players at a time. Additional tables may be opened based on demand.

Come prepared to experiment, break spells, and give thoughtful feedback.

ManaMagesMayhem #TTRPG #IndieRPG #RPGPlaytest #TabletopGaming #NottinghamEvents #FantasyRPG #DicePool #GamesHaven #SupportIndieGames

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Step into the gloom.

Felix will be running two standalone ShadowDark adventures this March, tight, brutal dungeon crawls inspired by the raw edge of early Dungeons and Dragons. If you like your fantasy sharp, tense and slightly unforgiving, this your table.

ShadowDark

Become That
Party

RSVP →

What is ShadowDark?

ShadowDark is old school fantasy roleplay distilled to its most dangerous essence. Torches burn down in real time. Light matters. Time matters. Noise matters. The dungeon is not balanced for your comfort.

It is atmospheric. It is lethal. It rewards clever play over character sheets. And its a fun play.

What to Expect

• A complete one shot adventure
• Simple, fast onboarding to the system
• Classic dungeon exploration
• High tension, meaningful risk
• 3 to 5 players for a focused experience

New to ShadowDark? No problem. The rules are clean and accessible. You will be guided through character creation and core mechanics at the table. The learning curve is gentle. The consequences are not.

The Tone

This’nt heroic power fantasy. It is torchlight, damp stone, and the sound of something moving just beyond sight. Like that noise and shadow under the bed at 2am.

Survival depends on:

• Ingenuity
• Teamwork
• Caution
• A little good fortune

Charge blindly and you will not last long. Think carefully and you might.

Who Is It For?

• Players curious about old school style roleplaying
• D&D veterans wanting something leaner and more dangerous
• Groups who enjoy problem solving over power gaming
• Anyone who enjoys a bit of peril with their fantasy

Book Your Seat

Spaces are limited to maintain tension and table focus. If you want in, secure your place early.

Gather your party. Light the torch. Step into the dark.

ShadowDark #RPGEvent #DungeonCrawl #OldSchoolRPG #OSR #TabletopGaming #NottinghamEvents #FantasyRPG #OneShot #GamesHaven #TorchlightAdventure #LethalRPG #DrinksandDice

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So did Why FreeRPG Day Reminded Us Why We Love This Hobby, well because.

Last Saturday, we threw open the doors, pulled out all the tables, and let the community do what it does best. Tell stories, roll dice, and create absolute chaos in the best possible way.

The thing about Free RPG Day is that it is not just about the free swag or the game systems on show. It is about that spark when a table of strangers sit down and, within minutes, they are plotting daring rescues or brewing potions of questionable legality.

It is about the new player who shyly asks if they can join a session, then three hours later they are loudly narrating the final blow against a dungeon boss like they have been doing this for years.

Was nice to see about veteran GMs introducing players to strange new worlds, then watching in quiet pride as those players absolutely derail the plot. As they always do.

At Games Haven, we believe in the magic of face to face gaming. Free RPG Day reminded us exactly why.
Because in an age of screens and distractions, nothing beats gathering around a table and creating a world that only exists because you made it together.

So Thank You

So thank you. To the players, the GMs, the folks who brought snacks, the curious drop-ins who ended up staying all day, and the entire community that keeps this hobby alive.

If you missed it, do not worry. Our RPG World Allula campaign nights, DnD Tuesdays, and regular one-shots are always looking for new adventurers. You do not need an excuse like Free RPG Day to roll the dice with us.

You just need to show up.

See you at the table.

#GamesHaven #GamesHavenUK #TabletopRPG #RPGCommunity #FreeRPGDay #StorytellingGames #RollForAdventure #NottinghamGaming #TabletopFun

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If you love tabletop roleplaying games (RPGs) — whether you are a battle-hardened Dungeon Master or a brand-new player looking for your first adventure — there is one event that absolutely should be on your calendar: Free RPG Day. And this year, on Saturday 21 June 2025, Games Haven Nottingham is bringing it to life in full neon-soaked style.

In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Free RPG Day, what you can expect at Games Haven, why it is such a great opportunity for both new and experienced gamers, and how you can take part. Plus, we will give you a sneak peek at some of the exclusive RPG goodies up for grabs — and how to prepare for a day of epic storytelling.

What is Free RPG Day?

Launched in 2007, Free RPG Day is the global tabletop event that celebrates all things roleplaying. It is powered by a network of incredible RPG publishers — from indie creators to major names like Paizo, Renegade Game Studios, Chaosium, Modiphius, Kobold Press, and many more.

Each year, participating game stores (like Games Haven Nottingham) receive a treasure trove of exclusive new RPG content — think brand-new one-shot adventures, preview material for upcoming books, gaming accessories, dice, character sheets, maps, and more.

The goal is simple: bring RPG players together for a full day of discovery, creativity, and fun.

You can find more about the global initiative at the official Free RPG Day site: https://freerpgday.com/

What’s Happening at Games Haven for Free RPG Day 2025

On Saturday 21 June, Games Haven Nottingham will transform into a full celebration of all things RPG. Whether you are into Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, Call of Cthulhu, Blades in the Dark, Starfinder, or any number of exciting indie systems, there will be plenty happening across the day.

Here is what is planned:

• Free RPG Giveaways: From the moment the doors open, you will be able to pick up exclusive Free RPG Day material — one per person — completely free. These items are limited, so arriving early is advised!

• One-shot sessions throughout the day: Whether you want to try a completely new system, introduce friends to RPGs, or run a quick adventure, there will be GMs and tables ready. We will be scheduling drop-in one-shots as well as encouraging open-table RPGs all day.

• Learn to Play RPGs: If you are new to roleplaying or curious about getting started, Free RPG Day is a great way to dip your toes into the hobby. We will have easy-to-learn starter sessions and helpful guides on hand.

• Community tables: Meet other local gamers, chat with GMs, share resources and ideas. Our goal is to build even more connections in the Nottingham RPG scene.

• RPG Room at Games Haven: Don’t forget, Games Haven has a dedicated RPG room for hire, which will also be in action on the day.

Why Free RPG Day is Perfect for Beginners

Many people are curious about Dungeons & Dragons or other RPGs, but unsure how to get started. Free RPG Day provides the ideal gateway:

• No need to buy books or minis — just show up
• Experienced GMs on hand to guide new players
• Free intro materials and handouts to get started
• A welcoming, inclusive community at Games Haven

If you have always wanted to try roleplaying but felt a little intimidated — this your chance. We will help you roll your first dice and get you playing.

Why Experienced Gamers Should Come Too

Even if you are a long-time player or GM, Free RPG Day offers loads of value:

• Access to exclusive content — you won’t find these Free RPG Day adventures anywhere else
• Discover new systems — broaden your horizons beyond the classics
• Meet new players and GMs — build your network for future games
• Support your local game store — events like this keep the community thriving

And of course, what RPG player doesn’t want to pick up new loot for the collection?

Our RPG Community in Nottingham

Games Haven Nottingham has become a true hub for tabletop RPG fans. Week after week we run campaigns, one-shots, and open tables for a wide variety of games:

• • Dungeons & Dragons 5E
• • Old School Essentials (OSE)
• • Pathfinder 2E
• • Call of Cthulhu
• • Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay
• • Blades in the Dark
• • Starfinder
• • Indie and narrative RPGs

We also support GM-led campaigns, RPG room hire, and community-driven projects. Free RPG Day is one more reason for gamers across Nottingham and the East Midlands to connect and play together.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Free RPG Day

1. Arrive early — Free giveaways are limited.
2. Bring friends — RPGs are even more fun with a group.
3. Be open to new systems — you might find a new favourite.
4. Come ready to roll — dice, character sheets, and an open mind.
5. Ask questions — our GMs and staff will be happy to help.

How to Get Involved

No pre-booking required — just show up at Games Haven Nottingham on Saturday 21 June 2025. Doors will be open from 12 PM until late.

Find us at:
Games Haven, Lennox House, Lennox Street, Nottingham NG1 1EH

Want to stay up to date on what will be available? Visit the official Free RPG Day site here: https://freerpgday.com/

Or join our community:
• Facebook Group: Board Games and RPGs at Games Haven
• Discord: https://discord.gg/A5QwjFDp4c

Final Thoughts

Free RPG Day is the perfect excuse to spend the day rolling dice, telling stories, and making new gaming friends. At Games Haven, we are passionate about growing Nottingham’s tabletop community and helping more people discover the joy of RPGs.

We cannot wait to welcome you in for a day packed with creativity, imagination, and a little bit of magic. See you at Free RPG Day 2025!

FreeRPGDay #RPGCommunity #TabletopRPGs #GamesHavenUK #NottinghamGaming #DungeonsAndDragons #PathfinderRPG #IndieRPG #TTRPG #RollDiceTellStories #RPGAdventure #MeetPlayWin

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From Dungeons & Dragons to Call of Cthulhu and Vampire: The Masquerade, our game nights are packed with creativity, camaraderie, and chaos (the good kind). We host RPG sessions in Nottingham every Tuesday, with additional one-shots and story arcs on weekends.

Why Choose Games Haven for RPG Gaming Nottingham?
We offer welcoming, inclusive space for fantasy tabletop gaming, character acting, tactical combat, and improvised storytelling. Whether it’s Pathfinder, homebrew systems, or classic modules, you’ll find allies and action here.

Build Worlds, Not Just Characters

Got a tale to tell? We support new GMs with worldbuilding guides, session zero tools, and a friendly player base that actually reads your setting notes. Plus, our GM support system is designed to help first-time storytellers thrive.

Explore a Growing Community

RPG Gaming at Games Haven is more than just a shop — it’s a RPG community hub in Nottingham. Meet fellow adventurers, join drop-in campaigns, or find a crew for your next long-term arc.

• Learn GM tips on our RPG blog
• Shop RPG guides and dice in our online store
• Connect with players in our Discord community

“Every great adventure begins with a seat at the table.” — Games Haven GM quote

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