The tabletop RPG world just got a major shake-up. Brennan Lee Mulligan is the mastermind behind Dropout’s “Dimension 20.” He is taking the reins of Critical Role’s Campaign 4. At the same time, he is signing a massive three-year development deal with his home studio.
The following information comes from an exclusive interview with Variety.
Critical Role Gets a New Voice
Beginning on October 2nd, Mulligan will take on the role of Game Master for Critical Role’s entire fourth campaign. This marks the first time someone other than Matt Mercer has led a full core campaign. The move gives Mercer “a bit of a breather” while the series explores worlds beyond its usual Exandria setting.
“We’re not just turning a page—we’re starting a whole new book,” says Critical Role creative director Marisha Ray. The campaign promises “new world, new tone, new possibilities.” Mulligan will bring his signature blend of depth, humor, and high-stakes drama to the legendary actual-play series.
Campaign 4 will stream on Beacon.tv, YouTube, and Twitch, with VODs available the following Monday and podcast episodes dropping in two parts.
Dropout Doubles Down on Their Star
Simultaneously, Mulligan has locked in a three-year deal with Dropout that goes far beyond his “Dimension 20” duties. The agreement includes continued creative leadership of D20 plus an overall development deal for entirely new series.
“Dropout is my home,” Mulligan declares. “They will have to drag me kicking and screaming out of Dropout, American Girl-doll-shoes jokes notwithstanding.”
The timing couldn’t be better. Dropout just wrapped filming a D20 season. Mulligan calls it “one of the most delightful, funny, tears were shed beautiful” productions. It was shot efficiently and on schedule.
Juggling Multiple Worlds
How does one person manage Critical Role and multiple D20 seasons? Additionally, how do they manage the upcoming “Worlds Beyond Number” campaign? In this campaign, he’ll finally be a player under Aabria Iyengar’s GMing.
“I’m finally playing almost as much TTRPG as I’d like,” Mulligan laughs. “The primary impact is that I’m maybe too lucky for a person that I get to have all this fun.”
What’s Next?
Beyond the confirmed projects, Mulligan hints at expanding Dropout’s unscripted storytelling capabilities. He draws from his LARPing background. He works with “the greatest improvisers on the planet.” Multiple D20 worlds are receiving development for potential adaptation beyond actual play.
The collaboration between Critical Role and Dropout represents a new era for tabletop streaming. Mulligan is positioned as the bridge between two of the medium’s most influential platforms.
Critical Role Campaign 4 premieres Thursday, October 2nd on all Critical Role platforms.
