RPG Evolution: Gifts Ideas for Your DM (2025)

Not sure what to buy your beleagured Dungeon Master this holiday season? Here's some ideas, presented from least to most expensive. Please Note: Links to Amazon change frequently, so expect price fluctuations from what's listed here and order early to avoid shipping delays.

Damage Template ($8)​

This template is simple but effective in providing an overlay for area effect attacks on the table. There are a lot of variants on this idea, but sometimes the simplest solutions are best and this is a one-size-fits-most accessory.

Blank Scrolls ($13) ​

Yes, this is technically for weddings. But any DM worth their dice will see the possibilities of these props as game accessories for casters, treasure maps, and written clues.

RPG Coins ($20)​

There are a lot of coin sets out there, but few are as comprehensive as this set, which covers a large spread: 20 gold, 10 silver, and 10 copper. One side of the coin has a fantasy dragon design and the other side has a pirate skull.

4-Panel DM Screen ($26)​

There are a lot of DM screens out there, and this one splits the difference by accommodating inserts and dry-erase for DMs who want to customize their screens.

Game Mat ($60)​

Everyone DM their game mat preferences, which is why this set includes several dry-erase overlays to protect expensive printed maps.

 

[sevenbastard]

Everyone DM their game mat preferences,

Mine is half inch square or half inch hex. My goal is to go smaller so battles can get bigger.

 

[The Soloist]

Mine is half inch square or half inch hex. My goal is to go smaller so battles can get bigger.

Agreed. Range attacks in particular become more important as you can get more than one round of them. I often play solo on a 1/2" grid with 15mm miniatures.

 

[Koloth]

US folks should note that the GM screen says it fits A4 paper size so the slightly wider US standard letter may be a snug fit. Probably not a huge deal unless you swap sheets often.

 

[EternalDungeonMaster]

US folks should note that the GM screen says it fits A4 paper size so the slightly wider US standard letter may be a snug fit. Probably not a huge deal unless you swap sheets often.

I'm a sheet swapper. I'm an unrepentant, serial sheet swapper.

 

[sevenbastard]

I often play solo on a 1/2" grid with 15mm miniatures.

Do you have a vinyl mat that is 1/2' ive been looking but haven't seen one.

 

[The Soloist]

Do you have a vinyl mat that is 1/2' ive been looking but haven't seen one.

No. I made the grid myself and bought a clear polyester table cloth at the fabric store.