How to Use Random Tables in D&D (video)

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Random tables are a dungeon master’s best friend. I know they get hate here on YouTube, and some players don’t like them, but that doesn’t matter. Random tables are still a DM’s best friend. I’m not talking about random combat tables—they have their place, but they’re not the best form of random tables. Or rather, they’re not the type of random tables that a DM can get the most mileage out of.

The type of random tables I’m talking about today contain random items. Not weapons or magic items, but simple and interesting items like a lapis lazuli figurine, an iron ring with an inscription, or even a dead rat. These tables let players search every room with the promise of finding at least something in return. I’ve created hundreds of these tables for many genres—link in the description. Here are four ways a dungeon master can use them:

Number One: Roll Before the Session

A DM can use a random table to fill dungeon or castle rooms with items before the session during their prep time. I don’t like this method. First, no one has time to prep before a session anyway. And second, what if the players don’t search the room? You’ve just wasted your time.

Number Two: Roll During the Session

The dungeon master could wait until the session to see if the players search the room and then roll on the table. However, I don’t like this either. The DM already has a lot of sway over sessions, and this just adds one more thing the DM has control over.

Number Three: Pick from the Table

Some DMs have the urge to look at the table and pick a result they like. I feel they should resist that urge. Randomness has a certain magic, and picking kills that. Also, DMs might pick items they like or are used to dealing with, which can make things boring.

Number Four: Have the Players Roll

Now, I like this one. The DM can have the players roll to search the room and then, based on what they rolled, give them one, two, or three rolls on the random table. This gives players more control over what their characters find. Players love this. The randomness increases engagement, and it removes any accusations of favoritism. If Kyle complains that he got a dead rat and Brecklyn got two gold pieces, it wasn’t the DM’s choice. You can simply say, “She rolled a 79, and you rolled a 44. It was determined by the dice. Roll better next time, Kyle.”

Use Random Tables in Your D&D Games

These are four ways you can use random tables in your D&D games. Pick the one that works best for you and your players. I create random tables, and you can find the link in the description below. Please like and subscribe. Thank you and keep gaming!


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