DM’s Guild Review: Blinsky’s Toyshop

Blinsky’s Toyshop is an adventure about a magical toyshop created by Remley Farr & Jeff C. Stevens.

Disclaimer: We were provided with a free digital copy of Blinsky’s Toyshop.

This 46-page adventure is aimed at parties of 3 to 5 characters at 3rd-7th level, with an optimal setup for a party of 5 characters at around the 5th level. Keep in mind that the final battle is not recommended for levels below five. There are also enhanced versions of creatures for easy adaptation to higher level characters. The adventure can be used as part of the Curse of Strahd campaign but is not limited to that setting. Moreover, you can make the changes needed to locations, skill checks and saving throws as well, to fit your story and preferences, so bonus points for that.

The story

A toymaker inherits a fortune from a client and builds a toyshop on a small island that was created in the center of Lake Zarovich. The toyshop is portrayed as a castle and is described in great detail. But things went south when what appeared as a great gift, turned out as a disaster. The players are tasked with restoring the toyshop to its former state of joy that includes battling with animated toys and saving trapped customers and employees. A few ideas for introducing this adventure to your group are provided, fully open to modifications to suit your needs. It is worth mentioning that combat is not necessary to result in the death of the enemies and, sometimes, this can lead to different conclusions in the story.

Layout

Visual cues distinguish the two types of information: a clear one intended for the DM, and a yellow one for the players for smoother reading and narration. Key details and important information are highlighted, allowing easier navigation. This design helps GM’s quickly find what they need without breaking the emmersion.

Art

The art is amazing. On the cover you see a lovely monkey wearing a tutu, bringing a playful vibe to the design. Her expression is fierce, though, instantly grabbing your attention and adding to the charm. Inside the adventure, you will also find more illustrations like the costumes that are introduced and the map of the toyshop.

Extras
Costumes are introduced, transforming whoever tries them on into the actual creature. Your options are Owlbear and Fireball. There are also new creatures included in this adventure, the purple octopus, the dino pet, the Strahd hand puppet and more.

Final Thoughts

Blinsky’s Toyshop is a very well-written adventure, with lots of detail and tailored to accompany Curse of Strahd without limiting your options or imagination. You can check out the adventure here.

Stay crafty,
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