Like Dragon Like Son

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Father and son team, Jay and Jack Oatway, bring together two generations of Dungeons and Dragons experience. They discuss fun, offbeat ways to bring more to the table. From how to create characters that challenge expectations, to building a more well-rounded campaign: tune in for fresh perspectives for players and DMs, whether you are new to the game, or are a seasoned veteran.

Jay and Jack Oatway


    • Nov 18, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 53m AVG DURATION
    • 123 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Like Dragon Like Son

    What It Is Like To Play D&D In A Castle for Four Straight Days

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2024 61:10


    Welcome back to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. We have come out of retirement for a very special update: Jack interviews Jay about his recent experiences from playing the fabled D&D in a Castle event at Lumley Castle in England in the Fall of 2024. He describes it as being transported to another plane of existence! And explains how his DM and fellow players made it into some of the best D&D he has ever played. They discuss ways that you too can re-create this experience at your home game.

    Riding Into the Sunset

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2023 70:00


    With Jack heading off to university, this will be the last episode of Like Dragon Like Son for the foreseeable future. This podcast has provide an opportunity for us to grow as players and as GMs -- and share our growth with you. We hope you've enjoyed the journey. Before we go, we leave you with a few more thoughts on what the future of TTRPG looks like for us, and maybe for you too. This podcast has been hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway, where they've discussed everything D&D (and beyond), from character builds to personal experiences. Please, take some time to explore the back catalog -- it is full of gems. We hope you've loved Like Dragon Like Son as much as we have. Off to new adventures!

    Changing the Way We Build Characters

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2023 47:42


    If you are like us, you've probably built more characters than you will ever play. But what if you had to play a character to build them? The idea is that as a 0 level character, you play in a short mini-campaign that showcases an influential time in your character's life that shaped who they would become. We discuss how this work with starting with only 2d6 in each ability score, gaining stats, skill, languages and spells as your character blossoms. We also discuss some fun ways to take the levels out of leveling up, and look at ways exciting ways to motivate players to lean into the role play of character development. We also discuss the idea of "rolling with emphasis" -- taking the most extreme result from rolling two d20s. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    What We Can Steal From The D&D Movie

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2023 25:55


    Spoiler Alert: We are discussing our take-aways from the new D&D movie, Honor Among Thieves. We talk about rule of cool, druid abilities, and how those red wizards are probably part of some grand plan that's been in the works since the dawn of 5th edition. So grab your popcorn -- we're going to the movies! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Rock The Clock Mechanic: Going Beyond The Timer

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2023 40:47


    Using a clock or counter system can dramatically overhaul how encounters play out. They can introduce a puzzle-like complexity, and increase the number of ways to win besides just doing damage. And they can add a dynamism to the active evolving world of your campaign setting. If you need some help getting clocks working in your game, now's the time! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    True Magic: How to Make Spellcasting Work Like It Does In The Movies

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2023 72:00


    We've all seen spells explode on the big screen and thought, "I want my character to be able to do that!" Then gone looking in the Player's Handbook only to find the closest thing to it is some 3rd level spell with a ridiculous number of restrictions. The World's Greatest RPG shouldn't be so disappointing. So the solution is simple: steal some magical ideas from other sources. We look at Ars Magica, Push Powered, as well as some of our own homebrew to find ways to create a new full spectrum of magical powers full of the sort of risks and rewards that makes the TTRPG hobby so much fun. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    How To Make Players More Invested

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2023 75:02


    Ever get the feeling that, as a DM, the weight of the world rests upon your shoulders alone? That your players just show up expecting to be entertained? That there is a lot of pressure on you to look after everyone's feelings? But then who is looking after you? Join us as we look into how to deepen player involvement in the game, the story, and the mutual enjoyment at your table. We discuss a solution hidden in the back pages of the DMG (who knew?): Plot Points. Join us as we talk about how to increase the responsibilities of the players, and in the process, make the game more enjoyable for all. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Why Wall Spells Kinda Suck, But You Should Use Them More Often

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2022 77:46


    Join us as we knock down the barriers to wall spells. Sure they can be tricky to figure out, difficult to place, and sometimes feel underwhelming -- but with a bit of creative thinking, they can do a lot more than you think. From making bathtubs to microwaving bad guys, listen in as we go off-the-wall. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Changing the Way We Play

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2022 55:10


    This episode began as a sneak peek into the upcoming Dragonlance release for 5e. We started talking about how the Squire of Solomnia feat looked like what we have been seeing in the One D&D playtest material around feats. And then, unexpectedly, we started talking about the important ways the game has evolved since Dragonlance first hit the scene, and how the game of D&D has grown. And then we got very excited discussing how we as DMs have continued to expand our playstyle, continue to push outside the boundaries of RAW, inspired by new RPG experiences. Join us for a rollercoaster discussion that includes Blightheim, Blades in the Dark, and, also a bit of Dragonlance. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    How To Tell Haunting Tales

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2022 46:40


    Ghost stories are always fun to play -- especially around Halloween. Ghost hold a special status among D&D monsters. They aren't just sacks of HP that need to be smashed with an axe. They are creatures with unsettled business that requires deeper player involvement in order to truly vanquish the ghost. We look at some of the tools provided in Van Richten's guide and elsewhere that can turn your apparition into the haunting tale of adventure that no one will soon forget. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    How Good Is Rolling With Advantage?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2022 51:12


    Everyone loves rolling dice. And rolling twice seems even more fun! But how does that really change your odds of success and by how much? The answer might surprise you. Rolling with advantage is more than a simple +5, it radically alters the likelihood of success. This week we dig into the statistics, and discuss ways that you can use the odds to your advantage. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Brewing Better Healing Potions

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2022 41:06


    Does a little bottle of 2d4+2 seem a bit boring? Want to add a bit more buff to the healing drinks that you or your players concoct? Then this episode is for you. Grab your herbalism kit, your brewers supplies, cook's utensils, or alchemy set -- we are going to make healing tonics that take your game to the next level! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Weighing the Future of D&D

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2022 57:51


    After the announcement of One D&D, a new Unearthed Arcana has been released, this time showcasing how 5E character building will evolve. We evaluate the races, backgrounds and feats that will be the core of D&D's future. Join us as we fill out the survey! We encourage you to also fill out the survey, as this is the best way to help the game's designers decide what lives and what dies in the next evolution of the World's Greatest Role Playing Game. Find the UA and the survey here. (https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/one-dnd/character-origins) Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Is Spelljammer a Bit of a Thin Update?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2022 49:44


    As much as we love all things D&D, there are moments when we stop and ask: "Is that all you are giving me?" As experienced DMs we do a lot of homebrew, but that's not the case for everyone. And there is something nice about having a ruleset that is standardized between tables. So when we are looking at a scant 60 pages of Astral Adventurer's Guide, there's a lot more we need to bring to Spelljammer. This week, Jay and Jack talk about all the pre-existing resources that can be adapted to your Spelljammer campaign. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    How To World Build Together

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2022 44:57


    Collective storytelling can begin long before everyone sits down to play at the table. Join us as Jack walks us through his homebrew setting, Blightheim, a dark gothic setting in which all the classes have been rebuilt for the setting -- and for the characters. Learn the secrets to make your own interwoven masterpiece of collective world building. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    101 Things to Do In D&D Before You Die: Part 8

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2022 64:50


    We have arrived! Our celebration of our 100th episode milestone culimates with the final 10 Things to Do in D&D Before You Die! While not neccessarily the top 10 (who could pick just 10) these are definetly 10 BIG things. Join us as we discuss advanced actions and reaction, adding diversity to your table, pushing the limits of character creation -- and even killing a Tarrasque! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned all summer as we continue our countdown to the #1 Thing To Do in D&D Before You Die! Watch for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    101 Things to Do In D&D Before You Die: Part 7

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2022 68:00


    Celbrating 100 episodes of Like Dragon Like Son, the Top 101 Things to Do in D&D Before You Die countdown closes in on number 1! This week we are counting down from 20-11. Join us as we talk about how to make sure you are playing your best game ever. From better feats to player handouts, from Tarokka decks to spell points -- take your game to the next level! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned all summer as we continue our countdown to the #1 Thing To Do in D&D Before You Die! Watch for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    101 Things to Do In D&D Before You Die: Part 6

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2022 64:50


    Like an ever smoking bottle, our Top 101 Things to Do in D&D Before You Die countdown just keeps going! From 31-21, we start putting a bit more of the "Advanced" into D&D, and recommend you give it a try: playing with encumbrance, rules for moving diagonally, 20th level boss fights, using downtime, learning voices and building websites -- plus a whole lot more! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned all summer as we continue our countdown to the #1 Thing To Do in D&D Before You Die! Watch for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    101 Things to Do In D&D Before You Die: Part 5

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2022 71:31


    The summer celebration of our 100 episode milestone continues! Join us as we count down 101 Things to Do in D&D Before You Die! This week we focus on an area that sparked this podcast: building unusual characters. From 45-32 on our list, we will look at many of the different ways you can play against trope, step out from stereotypes, and play a character that is more interesting and rewarding than anything you've played before. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned all summer as we continue our countdown to the #1 Thing To Do in D&D Before You Die! Watch for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    101 Things to Do In D&D Before You Die: Part 4

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2022 68:35


    To celebrate our 100 episode milestone, we are counting down our Top 101 Things to Do in D&D Before You Die! This week we are counting down from 59-45. Join us as we discuss hot tips on adding pets to the party, marrying NPCs, making your own crafting system, using XP, and even playing other RPGs to make your D&D game better -- plus a whole lot more! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned all summer as we continue our countdown to the #1 Thing To Do in D&D Before You Die! Watch for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    101 Things to Do In D&D Before You Die: Part 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2022 54:30


    The Top 101 Things to Do in D&D Before You Die countdown continues in celbration of 100 episodes of Like Dragon Like Son! This week we are counting down from 73-60. Join us as we discuss hot tips on customizing character sheets, playing with different party sizes, watching Critical Role, and finding inspiration in Dragon magazine and other supplements-- plus a whole lot more! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned all summer as we continue our countdown to the #1 Thing To Do in D&D Before You Die! Watch for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    101 Things to Do In D&D Before You Die: Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2022 71:09


    We continue our celebration of our 100th episode milestone by counting down our Top 101 Things to Do in D&D Before You Die! This week we are counting down from 89-74. Join us as we discuss hot tips on homebrewing monsters (and the weapons to kill them), hosting a player-vs-player battle, fighting dragons, and exploring dungeons -- plus a whole lot more! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned all summer as we continue our countdown to the #1 Thing To Do in D&D Before You Die! Watch for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    101 Things to Do In D&D Before You Die: Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2022 58:35


    We've reached the 100 episode milestone and are celebrating by counting down our Top 101 Things to Do in D&D Before You Die! This week we are counting down from 101-90. Join us as we discuss hot tips on playing campaigns all the way to the end, building worlds from scratch, introducing new players to the game, and playing with old school pen & paper -- plus a whole lot more! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned all summer as we continue our countdown to the #1 Thing To Do in D&D Before You Die! Watch for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Don't Let Combat Become a Boring Math Problem

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2022 53:40


    We look at a number of ways to spice up your combat, from streamlining play so players get to act more frequently, to adding just the right type of crunchy table rules to provide extra excitement. Join us as we discuss the best ways to strike a balance between speeding up combat rounds, and making it still feel meaningful and carefully considered. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Saying Goodbye to Old D&D Rules

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2022 57:10


    As the fifth edition of D&D continues to evolve (can we say that it's 5.5e, yet?), we see two books being "de-listed" on DnDBeyond this week: Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes, and Volo's Guide to Monsters. And while it's clear that some of what these books offered now feel out of date, what we loved about these books was all the deep lore and storytelling found between the covers. Join us as we turn the pages of history, looking back and what made these books both good and bad. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Back to Class! Armor Class...

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2022 61:35


    This week we discuss everything Armor Class. From how to calculate the old THAC0 to the bounded accuracy of 5E's system. We dive into the spells, feats, and races that can boost AC. And we take cover and dodge around to find more ways to keep from getting hit -- we even come up with a way to boost AC to 30, if only for 6 seconds. Stick around to the end for the actual maths on which class will give you the best AC. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    How to Improve Your Conditions

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2022 68:38


    Conditions are a fundamental component to D&D, but are often misunderstood, or poorly applied. We discuss better ways to use everything from grappling to poisoned, from incapacitated to invisible -- and we even offer a couple of new conditions. Don't be stunned by our unrestrained conversation that is prone to being charming. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    What is Spelljammer?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2022 62:50


    We take a look into the newest announcement of D&D settings: Spelljammer. While we don't yet know all the details of how 5e will be different from 2e (the last time we saw official Spelljammer content) there are a few things we do know. Join us as we unpack this setting and look at some of its new monsters. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Beyond Oathbreaker: Making Edgy Paladins

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2022 61:52


    Sometimes we get misled by the name of a subclass, and probably none more so than Oathbreaker. We discuss where this unusual subclass comes from, the weird quirks it offers, and how to build something better. We also clear up the old javelin vs. spear debate (and why your Paladin might want to switch to spears). And we do some comparisons with Warlock, noting how Paladins are about the oath they make, and Warlocks are about who they make the oath to -- and how that affects the way you might want to roleplay them. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Adventures at Sea

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2022 51:34


    From the decks of a ship to the bottom of the ocean, nothing says adventure like the life at sea. This week we look at ways that players and DMs can create characters and environments well adapted to water-borne combat. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    What Lurks Below? A Look at Aberrations, Old and New

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2022 58:33


    With the release of the adventure, Call of the Netherdeep, D&D has a few new aberrations to check out. Generally as a cohort of creatures, Aberrations probably don't get looked at as much as Dragons, Giants, Fey or Fiends. But there is plenty of interesting ideas for unusual settings, or strange and terrifying twists thanks to the alien nature of these creatures. Join us to unpack some Aboleths, Flumphs, Slaads and Star Spawns -- plus a few new creatures you've never heard of before. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Great Teachers: 4 Types of NPCs that Can Help a Party Improve

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2022 42:02


    Good DMs tell their players how to improve, but GREAT DMs use NPCs to show their PCs how to live up to their true heroic potential. But there are many NPC pitfalls to avoid. This week we look at a few different types of NPCs that can change the dynamic, and maybe help the PCs in a less obvious way. Join us as we delve into Sidekicks, Rivals, Survivors and Adversaries. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    How to Make Character Death Meaningful

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2022 52:25


    Death can be a real bummer -- especially if you didn't see it coming. While it has always been a part of the D&D experience, how you handle that experience as a DM or a player can be the difference between tears or cheers. Join us as we explore how to make death meaningful to players and the campaign. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    The Joys of World Building

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2022 50:37


    One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a DM can be the time you spend creating a world for your players to adventure within. For those considering building a setting for a campaign, or even those who have done this before but want to up their game, we offer enthusiastic words of advice from our own experience. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Bigger on the Inside: A Guide to Extradimensional Space

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2022 61:37


    Ever needed to carry more stuff than your strength allows? Looking for a place to hide your party for an hour? Maybe your need to imprison a dozen of your enemies? Or store 27,000 cubic feet of gold coin? Whatever your storage needs, we've got you covered this week with our guide to extradimensional spaces. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Spice Up Your Combat Encounters

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2022 57:43


    Sometimes we find ourselves grinding through battles only to reduce our foes to zero hit points -- and frankly, that can get a bit boring. So this week we look at different ways you as either DM or player, can spice up combat by re-focusing the combat objectives away from simply killing everything, towards other more unusual and interesting objectives. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    What to do if you give out too much treasure

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2022 39:15


    Sometimes as DMs we tend to over do it. And when it comes to treasure, it's easy to shovel out mountains of gold. But then what do you expect players to do with it? What if they start spending it in ways that de-rails the game? This week we look at some creative options for reducing player wealth. From taxes and thievery, to property investment and hired henchmen -- there are a multitude of ways to turn that mountain of treasure into something that moves the game forward. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Season's Greetings: How to Give the Perfect Artifact

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2021 52:10


    'Twas the night before Mid-Winter Fest and all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a Brigganock. Join us for our annual look at the magic items we hope to see under the tree this year -- with a special focus this season on the best items in the game: Artifacts! Jack discusses how he has cutom built artifacts for all the players in his game, and we look at how to improve on the artifact system built into the Dungeon Masterss Guide. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    New Feats, Background Feats, Epic Feats and More Feats

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2021 44:37


    There are so many interesting feats that you will never get to play. Well you could, if you didn't value an ability score bump more. So here's our hot take: with more and more feats being introduced into the game, why not let everyone take one or even two more just to round out their character? Join us as we look at the new Strixhaven feats, and talk a bit about Jay's new Triton character build (and why he wishes he could take a couple of under-used feats). And we talk about Epic boons as feats for low level characters in heroic settings, and much more! Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    How To Bring a Campaign to Its End

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2021 33:33


    If you are really lucky, maybe you will get a chance to play a long campaign with the same group of players over months, maybe even years. Through countless adventures, the PCs have become seasoned heroes, and now they must face one last challenge: how to say goodbye. This week we look at what needs to happen before the final curtain falls on your campaign. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Be the Support Hero Your Party Needs

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2021 35:56


    While many players try to optimize their damage output, we find ourselves asking: How do we optimize our support output? It's not as glamorous to take the help action, or dodge action on your turn -- but if done well, and combined with a few object interactions, you might soon find yourself significantly boosting the damage output of everyone else at the table. Join us as we look at how to play the best support character ever. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    How To Create Your Own Amazing Dragon

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2021 48:55


    Having spent some time digesting Fizban's Treasury of Dragons, we set out to put the book to the test: cooking up our very own Brass Dragon. We show you how to roll up the characteristics and features that quickly lead not just to a unique boss monster, but to an enticing NPC that a whole campaign could revolve around. Fizban's Treasury reminds us of our recent forays in designing the Casion Dread Lord with Van Richten's Guide, and creating the Library Archfey with Domains of Delight. We get so carried away that within an hour we have rough out the framework for a campaign that would take months and months to play, and would sprawl across the multiverse. And it becomess clear that we can easily integrated our dragon story with interesting setting ideas we have taken from the other aforementioned source books. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Revised Monk: Beyond the Flurry of Blows

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2021 57:48


    We believe that class design should be about archetypes not stereotypes. Currently, however, all monks kind of look the same, and it takes real effort to style them into something less obvious. That means taking a step back and looking at the whole class differently, and in particular how to use Ki differently. What else could it be used for? How could that lead to very unique subclasses that all use it in special ways. Also, taking a page from Warlock, the idea of being able to mix and match a couple layers of features also makes for more diverse builds We go through some of the ideas and playtest that we've been working on to hopefully inspire you to build yourself a better monk. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Top 10 Scary Monsters for Your Halloween Adventure

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2021 65:27


    It's that time of year when we launch our adventurers into the realm of horror to confront the creatures that we love -- love to scare them with at Halloween that is! Join us as we count down our favorite fright night beasts of the season. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Excited for Campaign 3: Is it Thursday Yet?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2021 42:17


    Bidet, fellow critters! We are super excited about the new season of Critical Role that begins today. And in anticipation, we have gone and had a look at Marquet, the continent on which the campaign is set. As well as looking back on some of the exciting contributions that Critical Role has made to 5e, we also make a few predictions of things we'd hope to see. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    To Infinity and Beyond: New Science Fantasy Races

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2021 52:06


    This week we take a journey beyond our Crystal Sphere, out into the multiverse -- bolding exploring new races being playtest in the latest Unearthed Arcana release. Join us for Giff, Plazmoids, Autognomes and more! We look at our favourites among the stars, and discuss what the realease of the Spelljamer setting would mean for 5e. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Into the Fey: Domains of Delight

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2021 54:55


    With the recent release of new Feywild source books, we look at the highlights that we love about this new dimension of D&D. We dig into new races, new monsters, new magic items -- and a new way to build a fey campaign setting that is very similar to how the Domains of Dread were laid out in Van Richten's Guide. Join us as we build an Archfey, and their Domain of Delight, and set the stage for Fairy Tale adventures in the Feywild. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Finding You Own Feywild

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2021 40:43


    With the new Feywild camapign setting just around the corner, we look at some of the existing mythology of the Feywild, of the Seelie Court and the Gloaming Court, of the Archfey who make up each court, and of the popular culture (and folklore) you can draw upon to make this your own setting -- and how easily the stories of such a place can be told. We also look a bit at some of the existing classess that can bring the Feywild's magic into your next character. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Character Origins: Which D&D Race is Best?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2021 40:40


    So, you've decided to make a new character. Though you might be tempted by the simplicity and comfort of human, we encourage you to take a look at all of the possibilities out there in the Forgotten Realms (and beyond!). This week, we discuss which race gives you the best setup for early game mechainics and long-term roleplay. From Tortles to Yuan-Ti, we lay out each D&D race, picking apart what their best for (and not so great at). Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    The Best Way For Characters To Gain Levels

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2021 41:20


    The age old question: is it better to award XP, or to gain levels at set milestones? Is there a way to do it so that it doesn't go too fast? Or too slow? To encourage richer style of play, or encourage better attendance at the table? These are the carrots of progress the DM must weigh, and distribute to the worthy. This week we talk about our experiences with experience,. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

    Role Play vs Roll to Play

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2021 25:01


    In a game where players obsess over optimization, and DMs call for skill checks around every corner, it's important to remember that the dice aren't everything (sorry to all you who have crippling dice addictions). Sometimes the rules in D&D just don't make sense, but instead of just arbitrating some sort of ability check -- we recommend you call for a narration check. This week, we look at how this plays out against magical traps. When a player, probably the rogue, decides they want to disarm the magical trap, the DMG says it is an Intelligence(Arcana) check to do so. But what if they aren't proficient in Arcana, or know anything about glyphs or spellcasting? Does it make any sense? Instead of just calling for the Ability check, you might instead ask a player, "Tell us how it is with your background that you think you know how to disarm this. Describe for us what you do." This may require the DM going into a bit more detail about the glyphs or the nature of the trap, so as to give the PC something to work with. What happens next will only make the game better. We call this Role Play vs Roll to Play, and we discuss it in more depth in this week's show. Welcome to Like Dragon Like Son, a podcast hosted by Jay and Jack Oatway where they discuss everything D&D, from character builds to personal experiences. Stay tuned for new episodes on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you love Like Dragon Like Son and want to help us out, you can support us by sharing this podcast with your friends. It's the support of listeners like you which motivate us to put out more episodes, so thank you!

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