Mythmakers

The Order of the Mythmakers

The legend of the Mythmakers has persisted for centuries: Shrouded figures who weave together the tapestry of the world, and whose decisions determine the fates of all those who hazard forth from safety to seek adventure.

Some have given names to these figures, assigning them personalities and histories of their own. But in fact, they are simply neutral arbiters, doling out the judgment of the fates and bringing forth the destinies of those who dare.

Now, the Order of the Mythmakers invites you to be an apprentice and learn their secrets, imparting the power and magic of the universe to you.

Will you answer the call?

Become a Storyteller

Mythmakers is a unique program where participants don't just play in adventures—they learn to create them. This is game master training for the next generation of storytellers.

In most of our programs, kids are the heroes of the story. In Mythmakers, they become the ones who MAKE the heroes' journeys possible. They learn the ancient art of the Mythmaker: how to build worlds, craft compelling characters, weave narrative tension, and guide others through unforgettable adventures.

By the end of the program, apprentice Mythmakers have the skills and confidence to run their own games at home—for friends, siblings, or anyone willing to answer the call to adventure.

Program Options

Mythmakers can be customized for your organization:

Single Session (2-2.5 hours): An introduction to the Mythmaker's art. Apprentices learn core storytelling principles and get hands-on practice running a mini-adventure for their peers. Perfect for library programs or special events.

Multi-Session Series (4-6 sessions): The full apprenticeship. Over multiple sessions, apprentices master worldbuilding, character creation, narrative pacing, and improvisation—culminating in each running their own adventure for the group.

Special Events: Custom Mythmaker experiences for festivals, school enrichment days, or themed events.

The Apprenticeship

Lesson 1: What is a Roleplaying Game? Apprentices discover why imaginative play is such a powerful form of learning: - How play teaches us—from childhood games to adult RPGs - The magic formula: rules + structure + chaos + creativity - Understanding the roles: Players vs. Game Master - The theater of the mind—where collaborative stories come to life - Hands-on: Your first taste of being behind the screen

Lesson 2: Deciphering the Rules Apprentices learn to navigate the game's framework: - Understanding character creation (races, classes, abilities) - The core mechanic: rolling dice, difficulty checks, success and failure - When to roll and when to just say "yes" - Using Inspiration to reward great roleplaying - Combat basics: initiative, actions, and keeping things moving

Lesson 3: Building Encounters The art of creating challenges that feel just right: - Challenge Rating and encounter difficulty - Action Economy—why numbers matter - Adjusting encounters on the fly (reinforcements, battlefield changes, retreat) - Smart monsters vs. feral beasts—how intelligence affects tactics - Making combat feel dynamic with monster "roles"

Lesson 4: Understanding Your Players Every player is unique—learn to read and engage them: - The seven player types: Actor, Explorer, Instigator, Fighter, Optimizer, Problem Solver, Storyteller - Asking the right questions to understand what players want - Balancing spotlight time so everyone shines - Setting expectations: tone, rating, and content boundaries - When things go wrong: addressing problems respectfully

Lesson 5: Running Your First Adventure Apprentices prove their mastery: - Putting it all together: prep, pacing, and improvisation - Each Mythmaker runs a short adventure for fellow apprentices - Peer feedback and celebration - Graduation from apprentice to full Mythmaker - Take-home resources to continue running games at home

Why Mythmakers Works

Teaches Real Skills: Game mastering develops public speaking, improvisation, reading social cues, narrative thinking, and leadership—skills that transfer far beyond gaming.

Builds Confidence: Running a game requires stepping into a leadership role. Mythmakers provides a safe, supportive environment to practice being the person in charge of the story.

Encourages Creativity: Apprentices learn that their ideas matter and that creativity is a skill that can be developed, not just an innate gift.

Develops Empathy: Great Mythmakers understand what their players want and need. The program teaches perspective-taking and social awareness.

Creates Community: Graduates leave with skills to bring people together. They can run games for friends, siblings, scout troops, or anyone who wants an adventure.

Perfect For

Mythmakers is ideal for young people who: - Love D&D, tabletop RPGs, or want to learn what they're all about - Enjoy being creative but want to share that creativity with others - Are natural storytellers looking to develop their skills - Want to learn leadership in a fun, low-pressure environment - Love fantasy, sci-fi, or any genre of adventure - Are looking for skills they can use at home with friends and family

Book Mythmakers for Your Organization

Mythmakers is available for libraries, schools, community centers, and private events throughout Massachusetts and neighboring states. We bring all materials needed—apprentice workbooks, example adventures, and take-home resources.

Contact us to discuss how Mythmakers can fit your organization's programming needs and help create the next generation of storytellers.