Gamer Forger Listener Email: Dragon Encounter

Name: Randy the Bad Ass Gnome
Comments: Hey guys I have a bit of a sticky situation that maybe you can help me out with. I have set up this epic campaign where my players are searching the land for this Bad Ass Dragon.

I have been delaying and dragging the campaign on because I want the final battle against the dragon to be epic and well...BAD ASSED!!

So my question is how can I make the dragon just that? I know Dragons have tons of attacks and abilities. What is the best way to run this Bad Assed Mother %*)^$#!!

Gamer Forger Response:
1. Use everything! This dragon is the lord of his/her domain, and his/her domain is everything he/she lays eyes on. Think big. That mountainside? Dragon's. Razor-sharp rocks in the valley? Dragon's. Small army of willing servants? Dragon's. It has more at its disposal than just a few claw attacks and a breath weapon. This is your big boss fight, so make it big and boss.
2. Raise the stakes. Everything has culminated to this. Every relationship the heroes have built is at risk. Every loved one, every piece of merchandise, every joke, every grain of wheat in the field is up for grabs. Give players notice to bring their best equipment and to play for keeps, because you sure as hell are. "This dragon wants to end the heroes" is the atmosphere you're looking for.
3. Whatever happens, IT IS FINAL! No second chances here, kids. If the dragon eats you, you are eaten. If you get to find out what the dragon had for dinner last night, then you'd better grab an umbrella, because that thing is hurling on you, whether you want it or not. If the heroes defeat the dragon, then its party time. But if they don't, well...there's always a new campaign that can be formed from the mythos of the heroes missing the big one.