Derik Dunning
The Wandering Game Master · tabletop role-playing that builds real-world social skills
A lifelong gamer and former Special Education teacher, Derik runs warm, welcoming Dungeons & Dragons sessions for neurodivergent and neurotypical players alike, ages 10 to 60+.
- Former Special Education teacher
- M.A. Anthropology
- Published RPG author
A teacher's heart behind the Game Master's screen
My name is Derik Dunning, and I'm the sole proprietor and owner of The Wandering Gamemaster LLC. I'm a longtime gamer (36+ years and counting!) and a former Special Education teacher, with History, English and Social Studies endorsements. I also hold an M.A. in Anthropology from Western Washington University.
My years in education and academia, along with proctoring D&D clubs after school, have taught me the value of role-playing games. They enhance and support social skills, build friendships, practice math and English skills, and build community among neurodiverse and neurotypical youth and adults of all ages across the spectrum.
Social games create a safe, low-risk, comfortable environment to learn many of these necessary skills while having fun with current or new friends. After the Covid pandemic, face-to-face interaction away from tablets and computers is desperately needed.
“Playing tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons helped me overcome social anxiety during my formative teenage years. I learned how to make friends and build a community.” — Derik Dunning
More than a game night
Overcoming social anxiety can be hard. A shared story gives players a warm, welcoming place to make friends and work through it together.
Social skills & friendship
Taking turns, teamwork and conversation, practised around a table of new and familiar friends.
A safe, low-risk space
A comfortable setting where trying something new — and getting it wrong — is part of the fun.
Math & English practice
Rolling dice, tracking numbers, reading and storytelling woven naturally into play.
Face to face, screen free
Real connection in the same room, away from tablets and computers.
He writes the adventures, too
When Derik isn't running games, he's writing tabletop role-playing books for D&D 5E and Shadowdark as co-founder of Do Your Worst Games.
- Do Your Worst GamesCo-founder · D&D 5E and Shadowdark booksCurrent
- The Dragonborn of Kara-TurAvailable on DriveThruRPGD&D 5E
- Baldur’s Gate Intrigue GeneratorCo-authored · available on DriveThruRPGD&D 5E
- British RajA Masque of the Red Death guide to British IndiaD&D 5E
- Dark CrusadesSupplementCall of Cthulhu
What players say
“If you like a GM who is imaginative, uses history to ground his stories, and is not afraid to incorporate some crazy ideas, Derik may be the GM for you.”Elizabeth W. · has played with Derik for several years
He has played and run different editions of multiple game systems (D&D, CoC, Witcher, Dark Heresy, Fallout, Vaesen, and many more) most of his life.
He definitely cares about making sure everyone is included in his games and actually has the training to know how to do that.
He doesn’t make a big deal about not knowing something and will explain whatever you have questions about.
He keeps the momentum going and the fun high even if a rule gets forgotten.
The kindest, most patient, and fun GM! He’s super fun and creative with his games and a fantastic teacher for when you’re learning something new.
I’ve been a player in his games of multiple different genres and he’s been great at each one!
I’ve been playing RPG’s for over 30 years and this dude is one of the best DM’s I’ve ever played under. Great storyteller, rewards PC creativity, adapts on the fly well, and just generally creates a great and fun atmosphere.
Morrangor was an incredible DM! This was my second game and the DM was very helpful and knowledgeable. I had an amazing time. He helped weave our back stories together and made the game come alive… I was fully immersed thanks to the DM’s descriptions and ability to improv and pivot to keep the story flowing and engaging. Highly recommend!
I’ve had the pleasure of playing with Derik for over six years across various games like D&D, Call of Cthulhu, and Dark Heresy. His storytelling is incredibly creative, crafting immersive worlds filled with rich lore and dynamic characters.
What truly sets him apart is his encouragement of player creativity. He fosters an environment where we can develop unique characters and influence the narrative, making each session a collaborative experience.
The GM was super welcoming and made sure everyone was involved and having a good time. The oneshot was fast-paced and a lot of fun.
Had a good time playing a classic dungeon using Shadowdark with Derik. He did a really good job bringing the NPCs to life, rewarding creativity, and keeping the game moving. He had a good knowledge of the system and its rules. Would recommend.
He’s super-patient, taking time to help new players and offering ideas and support if necessary. Morrangor is a master at drawing you into the story with evocative descriptions and fun little details.
Crazy fun playing the NinjaDark oneshot! Everyone was having a great time and the DM is very welcoming to beginners (such as myself).
If you are looking for a fun time at the table, with a DM that rolls with whatever crazy ideas your party throws at him, then Morrangor is your guy. Expect some laughs, creativity, and unforgettable moments.
A very talented and passionate GM that has stayed at the head of the table for well over 30 years. Definitely known for encouraging some over the top antics and heroics, epic encounters that up the ante from round to round.
Great GM! Kept things fun, exciting and moving forward.
Ready to roll for initiative?
Get in touch about a professionally run Dungeons & Dragons session for yourself or someone you know.
— Derik Dunning, The Wandering Game Master