Many DMs recommend using the Dungeon of the Mad Mage Companion from DMsGuild, which provides a structured "Game Show" script for the entire campaign.
The party is recruited by a concerned noble or a hidden faction within the City Watch.
Alternate plot hooks for PC's for DoMM? : r/DungeonoftheMadMage WDotMM.rar
Instead of one big plot, tie each floor to a player's specific backstory.
Chasing a legendary criminal who fled into the Yawning Portal. Many DMs recommend using the Dungeon of the
Arcturia and the Shadowdusks (Halaster's apprentices) are tired of his madness and are plotting to "modernize" Undermountain and use it to invade Waterdeep.
Have another group of adventurers (the "fan favorites") descending at the same time. This creates a race for loot and a sense of a living world. : r/DungeonoftheMadMage Instead of one big plot, tie
One of the most popular community strategies is treating the dungeon as a hosted by Halaster.