Adventuring Gear: The DM Screen

If you are a first-time player, or are testing a new game system, you might not need a DM screen right away. A propped-up book with some post-it notes could work just fine. But eventually you will want to invest in this essential tool that is a classic icon of the hobby.

image from jinx.com

When purchasing a screen for your game, there are a number of things you want to consider. 

• The screen should be unobtrusive, taking up exactly as much space as you need for your game mastering workspace while still concealing it effectively to keep notes and dice rolls hidden.
• The screen should contain any information that you will be consulting on a regular basis, the most important quick references and tables to keep things running smoothly
• The screen should have pleasing art or aesthetic design that fits the game you are running. It takes up a big chunk of space and your players are going to be staring at it for hours, you might as well make it look pretty.

(For more ways to use your screen, check out this article from Role Playing Tips.)

My number one piece of advice? If you are going to run more than one kind of game, get yourself a universal screen. These are screens that you can insert your own pages into as standard 8.5"/11" printer paper or card stock. There are two really good options out there, and either one could work well based on your preference and space limitations.

The Savage Worlds Screen  (3 panels, this is what I use. I like to keep my work area tight and organized)

DrivethruRPG Landscape Screen (4 panels, a rad premium option.)

You also may consider getting one of these general options instead of an official screen. Some screens sold as official published materials just don't have the best choices for what content to include. After all, every game-runner has their own style and may need certain tables or content that isn't included. I recommend previewing the DM side of any screen before purchase to find out if it will really be useful to you. I have my own custom Mutants and Masterminds screen that has actually saved whole campaigns by keeping things streamlined and fast-paced.

Tricking out and 'hacking' your screen is a fun and resourceful way to maximize its utility. Don't waste any space! With scotch tape paper and pen you can add flaps, side panels, and even include information on the player side if they want it. If it is something that you might have to consult frequently, don't waste time flipping through the book. Have it on hand. My Dungeons and Dragons screens are like this, and it is nice to know the information is literally at my fingertips.

Happy ventures!