Session Prep Review
Purpose
Comprehensive pre-session review that combines continuity checking, encounter balance, NPC readiness, and gap identification before game time.
For deeper analysis of specific areas, see the related skills:
- •continuity-check — Full plot consistency audit
- •encounter-balance — Detailed CR and XP math
- •loot-audit — Treasure distribution analysis
- •npc-network — Relationship mapping
- •pressure-test — Adversarial scenario testing
Pre-Session Checklist
1. Content Readiness
Load the module being run and campaign-level context:
code
# Campaign-level documents (world lore, session notes) list_documents() # omit module_id for campaign-level docs # Module content get_module_details(module_id) list_documents(module_id)
Verify:
- • Backstory or description document exists and is complete
- • Read-aloud text prepared for key moments
- • DM notes cover contingencies
- • Maps/handouts referenced are available
- • Relevant campaign-level documents reviewed (world lore, prior session notes)
2. NPC Readiness
code
list_characters(character_type: "npc", module_id: module_id) # Also check by location if the session spans areas: list_characters(character_type: "npc", location: "Tavern District")
For each NPC players will likely encounter:
- • Name, role, location defined
- • Motivation and goals clear
- • Key information they know documented
- • Ability scores set (for skill checks during play)
- • Inventory populated (
get_character_inventory) - • Voice/mannerism notes (optional)
3. Encounter Readiness
Review module monsters and maps:
- • Monster stat blocks accessible (verify via
search_monsters) - • Tactics noted in DM notes
- • Terrain/environmental factors documented
- • Treasure/loot defined
- • Maps uploaded and tokens placed (
list_maps,get_map)
4. Plot Thread Check
- • Current plot hooks are clear
- • Player goals acknowledged
- • Clues/information properly placed
- • Multiple paths to success exist
5. Contingency Prep
- • "What if they skip X" planned
- • "What if NPC dies" contingency
- • Backup hooks ready
- • Improvisation anchors noted
Output Format
markdown
# Session Prep Report: [Module Name] ## Ready - [List of complete elements] ## Needs Attention - [Element]: [What's missing] -> [Quick fix suggestion] ## Critical Gaps - [Element]: [Why it's critical] -> [Action needed] ## NPCs for This Session | NPC | Location | Ready? | Missing | |-----|----------|--------|---------| | [Name] | [Location] | [OK/WARN] | [What's missing] | ## Encounters | Encounter | Difficulty | Ready? | Notes | |-----------|------------|--------|-------| | [Name] | [Difficulty] | [OK/WARN] | [Notes] | ## Quick Reference ### Key NPCs - **[Name]**: [1-line summary, key info they have] ### Key Locations - **[Location]**: [What happens here] ### Plot Threads - [Thread]: [Current state, next beat] ## DM Notes [Any generated prep notes or reminders]
Interactive Mode
- •Identify the module being run
- •Run through checklist categories
- •For each gap, offer to:
- •Create missing NPC details
- •Add DM notes via
create_document - •Generate read-aloud text
- •Suggest encounter adjustments
- •Generate a condensed cheat sheet for the session