ImagiCon's Gaming Division Manager, Jim Beach, participated in a "Questions and Answers" (Q & A) session with us. Q: So, we’ve gathered by your ImagiCon handle of “MasterDM” that you’ve been gaming for a while, especially to have reached the level of “Master Dungeon Master.” How did this all start? A: Some years ago I noticed the RPGA (Role Playing Gamers Association) and Wizards of The Coast who produce D&D were offering tests by which someone could become eligible to run officially sanctioned games. I took the first level which was Herald and kept that for some time. Later I saw the Master level test was available and after a couple of attempts I passed that one as well becoming a Master level Judge for RPGA. I tacked the “1” after my ImagiCon handle because at the time I passed the test there were only 46 Master level Judges in the US and I was the first in the state of Alabama.
Q: We know that Dungeon Masters can be for more than Dungeons & Dragons, but is that your game of preference?
A: Yes, D&D has always been my game of preference though I have played and DM'd other systems. It is rare that anyone could see me without a D&D book close at hand. Though not my only hobby it is without doubt my absolute favorite.
Q: Which version?
A: I started ages ago when D&D was a series of brown books, more like pamphlets. As soon as I found out there was hard bound books I bought them. That was 1st edition or Advanced Dungeons & Dragons. Now I use the 3.5 edition of the rules and have found it is my favorite system even though in my own games I still manage to work in some of the older rules from AD&D.
Q: How old were you when you started gaming?
A: I was 21 and stationed at Ft. Bliss, Texas with the US Marines. One Saturday morning I happened to walk past the recreation room and overheard some other Marines playing a game. I stopped to watch and fell in love.
Q: What led you to become a DM and when did you decide to take up the calling?
A: I loved the storytelling aspect. The DM creates the story framework that the players interact with and to me having been a voracious reader it was like I was writing my own novel and the players were within my story. It wasn't long after playing my first game that I started to DM and it is my preference to be the creator of the story instead of a player within it
Q: Which game (and version) is your all-time favorite?
A: 3.5 Edition because unlike some who claim it took creativity away from the DM I think it gives us even more time to concentrate on creating more interesting stories and scenarios for the players.
Q: As the ImagiCon Gaming Division Manager, what do you hope to bring to the convention?
A: I am presenting a wide variety of games so that everyone should be able to find something they like or are interested in. My staff is putting the Imagination into ImagiCon.
Q: Do you have any guidance or suggestions for those who want to play any of the games?
A: Have fun! If you have a favorite set of dice bring them. If you have a favorite miniature, bring it. I am going to have my personal D&D miniatures collection of over 2000 Minis on hand to provide monsters and characters for the games and there will be dice available as well.
Q: Is there anything for people who have never gamed before, but would like to either try or learn?
A: All of the people on staff are very experienced and will be happy to help any “newbs” learn the ropes. I will be presenting a D&D101 game for first time players.
Q: What do you hope that attendees will get from the convention?
A: An experience they won't soon forget. Some new friends and possibly some new games they can go home and tell their friends about.
Q: Do you have any closing thoughts from your perspective?
A: I and my staff are doing all we can to provide everyone with something to play; whether a game of D&D, a board game or video games, there will be something there for everyone. |
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