What is a DM Screen and How Does it Actually Work?
A DM Screen is a tabletop gaming accessory that is used to help the Dungeon master, or DM, run the game. It provides a surface for them to place their maps and notes, and also helps them keep track of initiative and other information.
There are many different types of screens available on the market today. The most common type of screen has a fold-out board with an attached tray for holding miniatures and other game pieces. There are also screens that have a flat surface which can be used for drawing maps or as a dry-erase board.
What are the Advantages of Using a DM Screen?
DM screens are helpful for roleplaying games. DM screens are usually a sheet of hard paper that is placed in front of the DM. They provide a space to organize notes, have all information at hand, and help with game mechanics.
DM screens can be used for other purposes as well. They can be used as a cheat sheet for any game that requires a lot of information to be taken into account. Most importantly, they will hide all of the DM’s secret rolls and notes for the players.
Some DM’s prefer not to use a DM screen, I will on the other hand always use one. Mostly it is only so I can keep some hidden notes, tracking monsters HP and stuff. I do like to do most of my DM rolls out on the table for everyone to see, that way there is never any question of whether the DM is fiddling with the dice. If they die, they die..
In my mind the biggest asset of having a DM Screen, is not because I wanna hide something from the players, but rather it is because it brings the right feel to the game I want to play. The feeling of something mysterious is going on. The DM Screen is kind of a hallmark of the role playing games. When people see the screen, they all know what’s about to happen!
What Qualities Should a Good DMs Screen Have?
A DM screen should be large enough to provide a player with the necessary information. It should split up the information into separate panels, so that players can focus on one panel at a time.
Some DM screens have four panels, others only three. Which one best suits your needs, may depend on how much stuff you have to keep out of the players sight, and of course, how big your gaming table is. I do prefer the four panel screens though, and not too tall, I want to be able to look over the screen and see the gaming table of course!
Do you have a go to DM screen? Please let us know which ones below. We are always on the lookout for new DM screens!
Cheers!
