Running Games
We’re seeking Game Masters (GMs) to run games at Dungeon Con! Anyone can submit a game to run, no matter how big or small.
You could run…
- A game you’ve never tried before!
- A session of your regular campaign or open table, for new or returning players!
- The official tournament module – the Horror of St Keye!
- The adventure or game you cooked up for the zine swap!
…or anything else you fancy! Bring your D&D group and claim a table, or mix with the other groups at the event and play something you’ve never tried before.
What system can I run?
We welcome any system, but are placing an emphasis on smaller, quirkier, indie or old-school games, rather than the more popular ones like D&D 5E or Pathfinder. If your instinct is to reach for one of these, maybe consider something you’ve never tried before.
- We love the OSR, but you’re not limited to it – we also love games like Delta Green, Apocalypse World, or something we’ve never seen before!
- While allowed, the number of games run on D&D 5E or Pathfinder will be limited to give other systems the chance to breathe.
- This is the perfect excuse to try that game you’ve always wanted to play!
GM Expectations
- Read and understand the Code of Conduct. All players will have to abide by it, and while it is not your responsibility to maintain it, you should let us know if it is broken.
- Make sure to share the spotlight equally between all players – even the quiet ones
- Communicate content warnings and safety tools up front
Minors are allowed at the event, but they must be accompanied by a responsible adult. You are under no obligation to make your game child-friendly, but make sure you communicate to the responsible adult if your game is mature in nature.
On the day…
- Be prompt and ready to start at 5 minutes past the hour
- Make sure you are packed down by the end of your scheduled slot. Tables will be shared between groups throughout the day
- It is the responsibility of everyone at the table to leave things as you found them
What to bring
- Water and snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
- Dice, and spare sets in case someone forgets
- Miniatures, if you want that extra flair
- Character sheets, enough for each player at your table (plus a couple spares)
- Rules for the game you’re running, plus any handouts you may need
Submitting a game
Games can be any time and length between 11am and 7pm. However, the recommended time slots are 11am to 2pm, and 3pm to 7pm. If your game runs over 2pm you might wish to take a break for the communal zine swap at that time.
To run a session, make a submission on our Aftergame page (you’ll need an Aftergame account). Once logged in, hit “New”, then “Submit an ‘official’ game”. Choose the system and give the session a name and description, so players know what they’re signing up for.
Submissions will be checked to make sure they meet our guidelines, and approved so as to maximise the use of the tables available. You may receive some feedback to tweak your submission if we spot any issues.
Once approved, the session will be posted and available for players to sign up to.
Tournament module: The Horror of St Keye
Dungeon Con 2026 will feature an official tournament module, written by our organisers, for Old-School Essentials. This tournament module is based on an idea from the published Dolmenwood campaign, but is wholly original.
The module offers groups the chance to gain points and compete against other groups at the convention. It is a high-lethality adventure designed for characters of level 1 to 3.
If you are interested in running a session of the official tournament module, make a submission titled: “The Horror of St Keye”, and make sure you leave your email in the ‘note to admins’ section so we can contact you with more details, and provide you with the module itself.
If you have any questions, reach out to [email protected]
Safety and Content
Everyone has had different experiences, and for some there may be certain content that is a no-go. Make sure you communicate clearly any themes that may make a player uncomfortable, and allow them the chance to withdraw from the game if they choose.
If your content is flexible, consider gathering lines and veils from each player before your game begins. Explain how Pause for a minute… works to the table.
Pause for a minute… If anyone is feeling uncomfortable at any time, they can say “Pause for a minute” and stop gameplay. They state what’s bothering them, and request if they want it skipped, retconned or undone. They need not explain why. Remember to try and be as inclusive and generous as possible. More on this.