Dungeon Crawlers Radio

This week on Dungeon Crawlers Radio, we venture into the gritty, neon-drenched frontiers of the galaxy with acclaimed Australian author Jeremy Szal. Jeremy joins us to discuss his unique brand of "spacepunk" and gothic space opera, diving deep into the adrenaline-fueled world of his Commonwell series, including Stormblood and Blindspace. We get the inside scoop on his upcoming novel, Wolf Skin, and shift gears to geek out over the masterclass in tension that is Star Wars: Andor. From the complexities of post-human soldiers to the dark atmosphere of his world-building, it's a high-octane conversation about the future of science fiction and the craft of writing grimdark adventures.

We're coming to you live from Life, the Universe, and Everything (LTUE)! Join Daniel as he takes a seat on one of the weekend's most heated panels: "The Writers Room: Fixing Star Wars." Ever wondered what happens when you give professional writers a "reset" button on the Skywalker Saga? Tune in to find out which film (or series) the audience voted to put under the microscope and listen as the panelists strip it down to the studs. From character arcs to hyperspace logic, we're re-engineering the Force to see if we can save the galaxy one script doctoring at a time.

This week, the crew dives into the blood-soaked trenches of Mark Fischbach's Iron Lung. In his feature directorial debut, the creator known as Markiplier takes us from the stars to the bottom of a crimson ocean in a high-stakes adaptation of the cult-classic indie game. We're breaking down the film's suffocating atmosphere, its massive practical effects, and whether this claustrophobic sci-fi horror proves that "YouTube creators" are the new vanguard of independent cinema. Does the transition from small screen to big screen hold water, or does the pressure crush the narrative? Grab your oxygen tank, it's going to be a heavy one.

What happens when you mix 3D printing, a luxury cruise liner, and the legends of D&D history? This episode, we're recapping the Critical Hit Soda Cruise, a maritime adventure that featured one of the most impressive gaming setups we've ever witnessed. Guest Wyatt Karnes stops by to tell us how he managed to manifest the impossible: a fully realized, physical 3D-printed version of Castle Ravenloft. Built specifically for a premier event hosted by the iconic Tracy and Laura Hickman, this model turned heads and raised the stakes for everyone on board.

The galaxy far, far away just experienced a seismic shift. In a landmark announcement, Disney and Lucasfilm have confirmed that Kathleen Kennedy is stepping down, marking the end of an era that saw the return of the Skywalker Saga and the birth of live-action Star Wars television. But as one chapter closes, a fan-favorite rises. We're breaking down the promotion of Dave Filoni to President & Chief Creative Officer. From his beginnings under George Lucas to his mastery of the "Filoni-verse," what does his creative leadership mean for the future of Jedi, Sith, and Mandalorians alike? Plus, we look at the crucial strategic partnership with Lynwen Brennan, who steps in as Co-President of Business Operations. Can this "dyad" of creative vision and operational expertise stabilize the franchise?

Step onto the battlefield with creator Shaun Allred as we explore the high-stakes world of Rumors of War, a deck-building game where ancient history meets modern tactics. This episode dives into the heart of the journey, revealing how players recruit powerful armies to uncover the rich narratives while navigating a landscape of shifting alliances. We discuss the thrill of conspiring with trusted friends and the mental gymnastics required to outwit enemies in intense tactical showdowns. From the game-changing power held in every card to the strategic use of relics, you'll learn exactly what it takes to defeat adversaries and protect your quest from the constant threat of sabotage.

Step into the recording booth with the Dungeon Crawlers crew as we welcome master sound engineer Jordan Rannells to the show! In this episode, we explore the "sound wizardry" behind the scenes of your favorite stories. Jordan dives deep into the technical magic he uses to transform standard audiobooks into rich, cinematic experiences. From crafting atmospheric soundscapes to the precision of high-level audio production, we discuss how he brings a unique brand of enchantment to the spoken word and beyond. Whether you're an aspiring audiophile or a lover of immersive storytelling, you won't want to miss this peek behind the curtain of professional audio alchemy.

In this episode, the Dungeon Crawlers Radio team dives deep into the state of the galaxy far, far away. The hosts debate the intense fan backlash against recent Star Wars projects like The Acolyte and Andor, asking a critical question: Is the problem bad writing or toxic fandom? They challenge the notion that content creators are to blame for recent failures, arguing that the quality of the story and allegiance to the source material are the real culprits. Plus, we analyze George Lucas's original trilogy, discussing why he was a master world-builder but a flawed storyteller, and why the Disney era needs to remember Star Wars' gritty, "Old West" roots to succeed.

The digital age has opened up a whole new realm of tools for gamers, but are they helpful sidekicks or insidious enemies? On this episode of Dungeon Crawlers Radio, hosts Daniel and Krebs dive deep into the world of AI tools and their role in the tabletop and digital gaming space. Do these tools streamline your game prep and enhance your experience, or do they strip away the creativity and camaraderie we cherish? Join us as we explore everything from AI art generators and automated dungeon mapping to NPC creation, and ultimately, discover what Daniel and Krebs decide: is AI your greatest friend or your most cunning foe?

Director Guillermo del Toro, a master of dark fantasy, has finally brought his long-awaited version of Frankenstein to Netflix! This week, Daniel and Krebs dive into the ultimate gothic monster movie. They dissect Oscar Isaac's tormented Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi's deeply empathetic Creature, analyzing del Toro's signature visual flair and how this new adaptation measures up to the 1818 novel and classic film versions. Is this a haunting masterpiece that redefines the source material, or a beautifully flawed gothic epic? Tune in to hear our final verdict on the emotional depth, creature design, and all the horrifying humanity of Del Toro's tragic vision!

Is it all about the loot, or is there more to the crawl? Daniel and Alton tackle a fundamental question this week: How necessary is story in a roleplaying game? While some players are perfectly content with a classic hack-and-slash through a dungeon, the hosts discuss how the element of narrative and plot can improve, detract from, or fundamentally change the gaming experience. They explore the balance between pure mechanics and rich lore, and whether a good story is the key to unlocking the greatest adventure.

In this week's essential episode, Daniel and Alton sit down to discuss the Player's Toolkit! What is truly necessary for a successful tabletop RPG session? From the indispensable dice and notes to the less tangible, but equally vital, qualities of communication and immersion, they break down what's necessary, what's acceptable, and what can significantly increase game play value. Tune in to learn their secrets on how to go from simply participating in a game to creating a truly beyond exceptional session!

Thanksgiving is on the way, a time for delicious food, gratitude, and gathering with your favorite people. But what happens after the turkey coma sets in? Daniel and Krebs are here to help you turn those post-dinner hours into memorable fun! We're discussing our top recommendations for games that are perfect for mixed-age groups, big player counts, and everything from casual laughs to light strategy. Tune in to find out which games you'll want to bring to the table this year, ensuring your holiday is full of laughter and friendly competition. We cover fast-paced party games to get the energy up, cooperative crowd-pleasers, and quick-to-teach classics that even Uncle Joe can master after his second slice of pie!

Daniel and Krebs are teaming up to tackle one of the most exciting innovations in tabletop gaming: the Gamefold by Yarro Studios! This premium folding gaming table promises to deliver both affordability and versatility, aiming to be the ultimate portable solution for your indoor and outdoor activities. But can a folding table truly meet the demanding standards of a dedicated gaming setup? Is it sturdy enough for miniature skirmishes and large enough for complex board games? Tune in as Daniel and Krebs put the Gamefold through its paces. They'll break down the build quality, portability, and overall value to help you decide: Does this revolutionary, all-in-one table make the cut, or does it fold under pressure?

The Grid is back online! Join the Dungeon Crawlers crew as we dive deep into Disney's latest entry in the Tron universe, Tron: Ares. From stunning visuals and digital intrigue to character arcs and story choices, we're breaking down what worked, what glitched, and what left us wanting more.  Spoiler alert!  We're talking full plot details, favorite moments, and the highs and lows of this long-awaited sequel. Tune in and find out if Tron: Ares leveled up the legacy or crashed the system.

This week on Dungeon Crawlers Radio, we're joined by longtime friend of the show and talented author Jared Nathan Garrett! We dive into his incredible worlds within The Finding Home series, The Beat series, and more. Jared opens up about his creative process, the inspiration behind his stories, and the authors who first sparked his love of storytelling. Whether you're a writer, reader, or just love a great conversation about imagination and craft, this episode is one you won't want to miss!

Grab your dice and join the Dungeon Crawlers crew as we dive deep into the world of Dungeons & Dragons. From our favorite in-game moments to the epic quests we've always wanted to try but never have. What's the one thing every player wishes they could pull off? What drives us crazy at the table? And do we prefer sprawling, world-shaking campaigns or tight, episodic adventures full of surprises? Tune in for laughs, confessions, and maybe a few critical hits as we talk all things D&D, passion, frustration, and imagination at its best!

He's done it again! The legendary David J. West joins us for a deep dive into the cosmic weird West. We talk about the terrifying new adventures in the 6th book of his Cowboys & Cthulhu series, releasing later this month. But that's not all—David also gives us a sneak peek into the future, detailing London Calling, the third book in his intriguing Savant series, coming in December 2025. Tune in for tales of tentacled terrors and thrilling Savant mysteries!

You know those players who hear a critical clue but decide to investigate that suspicious squirrel instead? This is their show. Join our perpetually sidetracked heroes as they turn epic quests into absurd errands, ignore world-ending prophecies to open a tavern, or spend three episodes haggling over a rusty spoon. If you love the chaos and comedy that happens when the Dungeon Master's hard work meets player ADHD, this is the podcast for you. The adventure is out there... but we'll probably end up in the gift shop first.

Want to trade your typical dinner-and-a-movie for a night of competitive fun? Alton and Krebs and their wonderful wives open up their playbook for planning the perfect game date night or party. Hear their secrets to balancing gameplay, keeping the evening romantic, and making sure all guests (or just your partner) have a blast. You'll never struggle with game night logistics again!

It's a power-couples special! Alton and Krebs are here with their wives for an honest, hilarious conversation about being gamers in a relationship. Hear from all four on the highs, the lows, and the unique challenges of keeping a controller in one hand and your partner's hand in the other. If you've ever tried to balance a raid with a romantic night in, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Dungeon Crawlers Radio, we tackle a hot topic in tabletop gaming — digital tools. Do apps, virtual tabletops, and online generators make running and playing games smoother, or do they get in the way of imagination and human connection? Join the Dungeon Crawlers team as we weigh the pros, cons, and future of digital gaming aids, sharing our own experiences and insights from the community.

On this episode of Dungeon Crawlers Radio, we dive into the exciting world where creativity meets technology. 3D printing in tabletop gaming! From custom miniatures to terrain that brings campaigns to life, we explore how 3D printing is changing the way players and game masters build their worlds. Whether you're a seasoned printer or just curious about how this tech can enhance your gaming table, join us as we talk tips, tools, and the future of game crafting.

With James Gunn's Superman flying into theaters, the Dungeon Crawler crew dives deep into the legacy of the Last Son of Krypton. From comic book pages to blockbuster screens, we explore why Superman remains the ultimate hero nearly a century after his debut—and why he still inspires fans to believe in Truth, Justice, and a brighter tomorrow. Critical Hit Soda Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/criticalhitsoda/art-soda-crits?ref=8vf5ep

Join us as we dive into all the excitement from this year's GenCon! From the hottest new game releases and epic panels to unforgettable con-floor moments, we break down the highlights, surprises, and stories that made the convention special. Whether you attended in person or are catching up from home, this recap will give you the inside scoop on the biggest weekend in gaming. Critical Hit Soda Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/criticalhitsoda/art-soda-crits?ref=8vf5ep

This month, the Dungeon Crawlers team dives into three standout games you should be playing this July! First up, we roll into Camel Up: The Roll & Write, a fast-paced twist on the classic camel racing chaos. Then, we navigate the galaxy with Twilight Inscription, a roll-and-write epic set in the Twilight Imperium universe. Finally, we descend into the haunting world of Tainted Grail: Kings of Ruin from Awaken Realms—a dark, narrative-driven adventure full of mystery and myth. Whether you're racing camels or facing ancient curses, we've got your July gaming covered.   Critical Hit Soda Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/criticalhitsoda/art-soda-crits?ref=8vf5ep

Have you ever wondered what Gen Con is all about? The Dungeon Crawlers are here to break it down for you! In this special episode, the team takes a step back from the game tables to explain the magic behind the "best four days in gaming." They'll be discussing why Gen Con stands out from other fan conventions, detailing the unique experiences it offers, and giving you all the reasons why you should make it a destination for your next gaming pilgrimage. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a curious newcomer, this episode is your perfect introduction to the world of Gen Con. Critical Hit Soda Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/criticalhitsoda/art-soda-crits?ref=8vf5ep

Join Dungeon Crawlers Radio as we sit down with Beau Sampson, founder of Critical Hit Soda, to talk all things fizzy and fantasy! In this episode, we dive into the origins of the brand, the passion behind the potion-inspired drinks, and what exciting things are coming with their new Kickstarter. Whether you're a tabletop gamer or just love a good story behind a great beverage, this is one interview you won't want to miss! Links: https://criticalhitsoda.com Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/CriticalHitSoda

Join Dungeon Crawlers Radio for a legendary episode as we sit down with iconic author Tracy Hickman to celebrate the 40th anniversary of DragonLance, now soaring once again on the New York Times Bestselling list. We dive into the legacy of the series, his latest high-flying adventure Skyraiders of Abarax, and get the inside scoop on his exciting new role in the upcoming Critical Hit Soda Kickstarter. Don't miss this epic conversation with one of fantasy's most enduring voices! Links: https://criticalhitsoda.com Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/CriticalHitSoda  

Join Dungeon Crawlers Radio as we tackle one of the most heated debates in Star Wars fandom—Luke Skywalker: Old Canon vs. Disney Canon. From the legendary Jedi Master who rebuilt the Order and faced down impossible odds to the broken hermit who abandoned it all, the differences couldn't be more drastic. We break down what made Old Canon Luke the hero fans adored, why Disney's version left so many disappointed, and how these changes altered the very heart of the saga. Did Disney misunderstand the character, or is there a deeper reason behind their choices? Tune in as we explore what went wrong, what could have been, and why this divide still infuriates fans today!

Dungeon Crawlers welcomes back author and game designer Robert J. Defendi to talk about his latest project, Echoes of Heaven Reborn! Join us as we delve into the world of this reimagined setting, exploring its lore, mechanics, and the creative journey behind the Kickstarter campaign. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of Echoes of Heaven, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for gamers and storytellers alike. Don't miss it! Kickstarter Link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/robertjdefendi/echoes-of-heaven-reborn?ref=6vilib Star Wars Story Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ylzrfaDdxk

The Dungeon Crawlers team sets course for a galaxy far, far away as we break down Skeleton Crew, the latest addition to the Star Wars universe on Disney+! Join us as we explore the story elements, Jude Law's role, and where this series fits within the ever-expanding Star Wars timeline. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering the Force, this episode is packed with insights and theories you won't want to miss!

Join us for an exclusive interview with award-winning author Daniel Swenson as we dive into his latest novel and the highly anticipated sequel to Gingersnap. We'll discuss the inspiration behind the story, the challenges of writing a follow-up to an award-winning middle-grade book, and what fans can expect next. Don't miss this exciting conversation with one of today's most captivating storytellers!

Welcome one and all! The Dungeon Crawler team is back for another exciting year, and we're kicking things off with a deep dive into the world of retro gaming. Join us as we dust off the classics, relive pixelated adventures, and explore what makes these timeless games so legendary. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the nostalgia, this is one episode you won't want to miss!

Welcome to a special holiday edition of Dungeon Crawlers! In this festive minisode, we kick off the final episdoe of a four-part series devoted to the man in the big red coat—St. Nick. Join us as we share our favorite Santa moments in movies, games, and our own lives. Cozy up with some cocoa and get ready for a holiday adventure filled with nostalgia and cheer!

Welcome to a special holiday edition of Dungeon Crawlers! In this festive minisode, we kick off part three of a four-part series devoted to the man in the big red coat—St. Nick. Join us as we share our favorite Santa moments in movies, games, and our own lives. Cozy up with some cocoa and get ready for a holiday adventure filled with nostalgia and cheer!

Welcome to a special holiday edition of Dungeon Crawlers! In this festive minisode, we kick off part two of a four-part series devoted to the man in the big red coat—St. Nick. Join us as we share our favorite Santa moments in movies, games, and our own lives. Cozy up with some cocoa and get ready for a holiday adventure filled with nostalgia and cheer!

Welcome to a special holiday edition of Dungeon Crawlers! In this festive minisode, we kick off our four-part series devoted to the man in the big red coat—St. Nick. Join us as we share our favorite Santa moments in movies, games, and our own lives. Cozy up with some cocoa and get ready for a holiday adventure filled with nostalgia and cheer!

Join the Dungeon Crawlers Radio crew as they dive into Hasbro's latest cinematic adventure, Transformers One! This exciting new retelling of the epic origin story of Megatron and Optimus Prime features an all-star cast, including Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Brian Tyree Henry, and Keegan-Michael Key. Tune in as we break down what this fresh take means for Transformers fans and how it stacks up against the franchise's legendary legacy. Don't miss this action-packed discussion!

Big changes are on the horizon for Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering, and fans have questions. Join Dungeon Crawlers Radio as we break down the latest updates from Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast. Are these shifts in direction a cause for concern? How will they shape the future of these beloved games? Tune in to hear what's happening and what it could mean for players and communities everywhere.

Catch us live from FanX 2024 as we sit down with two incredible authors, Jared Nathan Garrett and Katie Cross! Join us as they share insights into their creative processes, the inspiration behind their works, and their journeys through the literary world. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their stories, this conversation promises to be inspiring and packed with behind-the-scenes stories. Don't miss it!

Join the Dungeon Crawlers team live from FanX 2024 as they sit down with Sam J. Jones, the iconic actor behind Flash Gordon, to discuss his legendary role and lasting impact. Then, stick around as we chat with comic book artist Will Conrad about his work on the Flash Gordon comic series. It's a double dose of Flash Gordon fun, straight from FanX!

Join the Dungeon Crawlers team live from FanX 2024 as they sit down with Tori Pence to discuss her enchanting new project—a Hobbit Hole-styled Airbnb! Discover the magical details she's weaving into this unique getaway. Then, stick around for a fun-filled interview with both Tori Pence and Matt Meese from Studio C. Hear the behind-the-scenes stories of how Studio C came to life and how these two talents became part of this beloved comedy show. Don't miss this episode full of creativity, laughter, and inspiration!

Get ready for an epic episode of Dungeon Crawlers! The team sits down with Tony and Matt from the Foundation for the Prevention of Violence to dive into the massive annual gaming extravaganza they host each year at FanX. We'll explore how this event not only celebrates the love of gaming but also raises awareness for an important cause. Whether you're a hardcore gamer or just love the FanX energy, you won't want to miss this exciting conversation packed with insights, fun, and a whole lot of heart!

This is one you won't want to miss! Join us LIVE from FanX as we sit down with John Goodwin of Writers of the Future to explore the fascinating history of this world-renowned writing contest. Get the inside scoop on how it's launched the careers of some of the biggest names in sci-fi and fantasy, plus a look into their exciting podcast and much more! But that's not all! We follow up with an incredible interview with the legendary Kevin J. Anderson—bestselling author and storyteller extraordinaire. Discover the inspiration behind his amazing tales and get a rare glimpse into his creative process. Two phenomenal guests. One epic episode. Buckle up for an unforgettable ride through the world of speculative fiction!

In this latest episode of Dungeon Crawlers Radio, the team dives deep into Wizards of the Coast's recent decisions surrounding D&D Beyond. Join us as we explore how player data is being handled, what it means for the future of the platform, and how these changes could impact the D&D community. Tune in for an insightful discussion packed with our signature blend of critical analysis, humor, and a touch of geeky fun!

Prepare for a deep dive into The Acolyte! In this episode, Daniel and Mattai tackle the most controversial addition to the Disney Star Wars universe. With the internet ablaze in debates and strong opinions, they've watched the series and are ready to share their unfiltered thoughts. Is The Acolyte truly deserving of the hate, or is it a hidden gem that challenges expectations? Tune in as they break down the story, characters, and the intense reactions from fans. Whether you're a die-hard Star Wars fan or just curious about the hype, this is one review you won't want to miss!

In this episode of the Dungeon Crawlers Podcast, the team is back to share their latest gaming adventures in "The Way Of The Games." Join us as we discuss the standout titles we've been enjoying recently, from epic quests to thrilling challenges. Whether you're looking for new recommendations or just want to hear our take on the latest trends, this episode is your ultimate guide to the games making waves right now.

On this episode of the Dungeon Crawlers Podcast, the team returns to dissect the series that's been sparking debate worldwide: Disney+'s The Acolyte. Join us as we delve into what made this show a lightning rod for controversy, explore its unexpected cancellation, and share our thoughts on its impact on the Star Wars universe and beyond. Don't miss this deep dive into one of the year's most talked-about TV phenomena!

Tune in to a very special episode with the fully restored Dungeon Crawlers Radio team! In this heartfelt and candid conversation, we pull back the curtain to share what really happened with the podcast and the team. Join us as we get personal, discuss the challenges we've faced, and explore the journey that brought us back together. This is one episode you won't want to miss!

Join us for an exclusive sit-down with our very own Krebs as he unveils his latest passion project—the KRULLtimate podcast! Dedicated entirely to the cult classic 1983 film Krull, this podcast promises to be a treasure trove for fans. In this episode, Krebs shares his vision for the show, which includes in-depth interviews with cast members, deep dives into the film's lore, and explorations of fan theories that have kept the Krull fandom alive for decades. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of Krull, this is one episode you won't want to miss!