Concluding Session Zero with an Adventure
Session Zero is where we lay the foundation for a great campaign. We build characters, tie them to the world and each other, and set expectations for the game ahead. But once the character sheets are filled out, there’s one more step that can set the tone and send everyone home excited: a short, punchy mini-adventure to end Session Zero on a high note.
Most of the time, we only have an hour or less left at the end of Session Zero. That’s just enough for a quick scene to introduce the party, showcase their new abilities in a fast-paced combat, and set up the first real session to come.
Three-Part Structure for Short Adventures
Here’s a three-part structure that works beautifully for a one-hour-or-less intro adventure:
- Character Introductions
Imagine a movie opening: the camera pans across a tavern, a train car, or a forest glade, stopping at each character. Ask each player to describe their character’s look, vibe, and what they’re doing in this scene. It sets the tone and gives everyone a chance to embody their character right away. - Combat Encounter
Give them something to fight. This is where players get to use the cool abilities they just picked out. Make the encounter simple and fast-paced. One group of enemies, one clear objective, and one exciting twist is enough. - Adventure Hook for Next Session
Once the dust settles, drop a clue that points to the next adventure. This can be a mysterious map, a job board, or a three-path fork in the road. Letting players choose what comes next builds investment — and gives us DMs a clear prep target for Session One.
Examples and Templates for Intro Adventures
Here are a few examples to slot into your campaign, along with templates to reskin these adventures for your own campaign.
Zombies in the Tavern
- Characters chat in a cozy tavern.
- A few shady figures suddenly rise and attack — they’re zombies!
- One carries a map to a necromancer’s lair.
Template: Tavern intro → surprise attackers → clue to villain
Lightning Rail Ambush
- Characters dine in the Lightning Rail’s fancy carriage.
- Warforged agents of the Lord of Blades storm in, shouting anti-flesh-creatures propaganda.
- As the train pulls into Sharn, the party picks their next job from a board.
Template: Traveling intro → ambush → mission choice
Into the Feywild
- Characters are briefed by an archdruid about a mission to hunt down traitors.
- The Fey Crossing is corrupted by shadow monsters they must defeat.
- In the Feywild, they find three paths to begin their hunt.
Template: Mission briefing → combat challenge → choice of paths
We can reskin these templates to fit nearly any setting or theme. The key is to keep things tight, cinematic, and tailored to the campaign’s themes and setting.
Ending Session Zero with a Bang
To wrap up Session Zero with a bang, give players a taste of action and agency. Introduce their characters, run a snappy fight, and point them toward the next adventure. It’s a small investment of time that pays off in momentum and excitement. Try it out in your next campaign launch — and leave your players wanting more.
