Tabletop Tune Up

In this episode, Mark and Ben discuss the first and still much loved series of games published by Palladium Games. Their entry point to the system was the comic book-inspired Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Other Strangeness, and that led to titles in other genres that used the same system: Heroes Unlimited, Ninjas and Superspies, Beyond the Supernatural, and Palladium's runaway bestseller, Rifts. This was a series of games with fantastic highs and unfortunate lows, and whether you run any of these games for your group or not, we hope you'll put at least one of their games on your shelf soon.

This week we're talking about one-shots and convention games. With GenCon's schedule release fresh in mind, now's a good moment to talk about why short-form RPGs are special, offering unique opportunities to test new games, build communities around your favorite games, and explore exciting alternatives to your regular campaigns. You'll get practical tips on designing pre-generated characters, crafting a complete and engaging short story, and expertly managing your game's timing to ensure everyone has a great experience. We'll also talk about the unique challenges of running games at conventions, from preparing effectively to handling a table full of strangers. Tune in for strategies to create unforgettable short adventures that players will remember, whether it's a spontaneous off-week session with friends or a packed table at your favorite game convention.

In this episode, we saddle up and ride into the wide-open world of Western RPGs. The Western genre continues to captivate players, and we'll explore classic tropes like morally grey heroes, high-stakes showdowns, exploration, redemption, and the struggle against nature. You can create memorable campaigns from the stuff of history, or you can mashup the Western genre with gritty supernatural horror, inventive steampunk technology, or the familiar comforts of Sci-Fi Westerns like Firefly. Learn how to capture the unique feel of Western settings, from the loyalty of a cowboy's horse to the elemental motivations of frontier life. Tune in to discover how to harness the spirit of the West for your next tabletop adventure!

Whether it's a fortified castle, secret bat-cave, spaceship, or even a humble basement office, the right lair can give players a secure home, strategic advantages, and powerful story opportunities. We'll discuss how to introduce lairs meaningfully—through conquest, inheritance, or rewards—and explore the narrative and gameplay possibilities they open up. From maintenance headaches to hidden vulnerabilities, discover how lairs can enhance your game's depth and provide unique challenges. Tune in for ideas on designing memorable player lairs that feel like home, enhance storytelling, and enrich your RPG adventures.

In this episode, Mark and Ben discuss the power and pitfalls of dice in tabletop RPGs. Dice introduce suspense and uncertainty, becoming the "third storyteller" at your table. Dive into Dice 101, and discover how probability affects the stories you tell at your table. We discuss the implications of averages on test rolls and effect rolls, and share storytelling tips for handling skill checks, group rolls, and damage calculations. Different dice mechanics can shape narratives in different ways, so we talk about techniques for adjusting rolls—static modifiers, advantage, exploding dice, and meta-currencies—to keep the suspense high and the story engaging. Tune in and get ready to master dice probability, balance your gameplay, and discover how you can let the dice help you tell your story.

In this episode, we dive into a crucial topic for every GM—how to handle and resolve conflicts within the group. From differing expectations about the game to personality clashes and in-game character disputes, conflicts can arise in many forms. We'll explore common sources of tension, like combat-focused players vs. storytellers, rules disagreements, and even external life stressors that spill into the game. Learn how to manage conflicts as the GM, from listening to players' concerns and helping them reach a consensus, to knowing when it's time to make a hard decision to preserve the group. By the end of the episode, you'll have strategies for de-escalating conflicts, rebuilding group dynamics, and ensuring that your sessions remain enjoyable and inclusive for everyone involved.

In this episode, Mark and Ben explore the exciting and collaborative world of co-GMing—trading off gamemastering duties with a friend. Co-GMing offers a way to prevent burnout, combine creative strengths, and make storytelling even more fun. We'll discuss the importance of working with the right creative partner, dividing things up, and tips for how to kindle that creative synergy. With a good Co-GM, you can work on big, ambitious campaigns and do things together that would be difficult as a solo act. Tune in for practical advice on how to co-GM successfully, with ideas for building a dynamic partnership and creating a memorable campaign that benefits from two brains, two perspectives, and a whole lot of creativity.

In this episode Mark and Ben tackle an often-overlooked but emotionally rich aspect of tabletop RPGs—romance! While romance in games can feel intimidating, especially with its potential for awkwardness, this episode breaks down how to handle it with care. From setting boundaries and ensuring player consent to avoiding cringe-worthy moments, they discuss strategies for making romance an engaging and respectful part of your storytelling.Learn how to approach romance with NPCs and fellow players, balancing humor and sincerity to create meaningful character development without derailing the plot. Mark and Ben also dive into the potential pitfalls, like unwanted advances or overshadowing the main story, and offer tips on maintaining clear communication at the table.Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on how romance can enhance your RPGs and add depth to your campaigns while keeping things fun and respectful for everyone at the table!

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, learn how to borrow the key elements of pulp storytelling to add thrills and chills to your games. Pulp is a style of storytelling distinct from the 1930's time period it is often associated with. Pulp stories tend to feature powerful, virtuous heroes, dastardly villains, exotic locales, and high octane over the top action. As a storytelling approach, pulp influences go beyond the 1930's adventure and detective fiction to include the science fiction of Flash Gordon (which inspired Star Wars) and the fantasy adventures of Conan the Barbarian. So try a little pulp in your next game and let us know how it turns out! You can reach us with Tune Up ideas at tabletoptuneup@gmail.com. To learn more about the Lester Dent Storytelling formula, click here.

In this episode, Mark and Ben dive into the art of trash talking in tabletop RPGs—without crossing the line. They explore how to effectively use banter to create excitement, foster camaraderie, and raise the stakes during gameplay. Learn how trash talk can engage players between sessions and heighten drama during key moments in the game. Learn how to keep the fun light-hearted, respectful, and engaging, ensuring it boosts everyone's experience. Tune in for tips on using trash talk to fuel your sessions and keep your players on their toes.

Whether you're a GM striving for harmony or a player finding your niche, achieving balance can be the key to a memorable game. We break down the different ways to define balance, from party composition and individual capabilities to fitting challenges within encounters. Learn how to manage balance in both one-shots and campaigns, adjust as your game progresses, and make sure all players have a chance to shine.

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben dive into the world of NPCs and how to make them memorable in your RPG sessions. From serving the story and building the world to helping manage time and providing fun moments, NPCs are essential tools for GMs. Learn how to give each NPC clear motivations and how to craft personalities that play against typical archetypes. Discover the power of visuals and quirky details to help your players connect with NPCs, and get tips for expanding the role of memorable characters who might steal the spotlight. We'll also discuss common pitfalls, like overloading players with information or overshadowing their characters. Tune in for advice on how to create NPCs that resonate with your players and add depth to your game!

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, we discuss the fun and creative process of finding your character's voice in RPGs. Accents and vocal choices can add depth to character portrayal, and voices can be a memorable extension of a character's story. You don't have to be an experienced voice actor to be really expressive with your voice, and we talk about how to incorporate voice work effectively without overdoing it by using inflection, speed, volume, and vocabulary to create memorable moments with your characters. We also talk about how to avoid common pitfalls like stereotypes or overuse of accents at your table.

In our last episode for 2024, we explore what makes a good encounter. Great encounters advance the story and characters, creating memorable moments with real stakes. Learn how to design encounters that resonate long after the game ends, and discover how to break down your adventure into impactful, story-driving scenes. Whether it's combat, social interaction, or skill challenges, we discuss how to balance encounters, address pacing issues, and ensure every player stays engaged.

In our special Holiday episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben show you how to create the perfect holiday-themed RPG adventure! Drawing on beloved TV tropes and seasonal traditions, we discuss how to incorporate classic holiday elements and festive experiences into your game. We'll talk about blending holiday magic with the tropes of your genre, borrowing classic holiday story structures, and keeping the tone and pace light, fun, and fast. Join us and put a little holiday cheer in your next RPG session!

It's time to kick off a new series focused on the art of adventure design. Adventures are pivotal segments in larger campaigns, and designing them thoughtfully ensures they drive the story forward while providing exciting, memorable experiences for the players. This episode covers key considerations such as linking to previous adventures, creating impactful encounters, and developing revelations that shape the broader campaign. Learn how to make each adventure relevant to your characters, whether using modules or building from scratch. Tune in for practical tips on crafting compelling adventures that engage and challenge your players!

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, we dive into the essential skill of prep—why it's crucial, and how it can make your GMing smoother and more flexible. We explore how preparation lightens your workload during sessions, allowing you to improvise and adapt easily when the story takes unexpected turns. Your focus in prep includes the rules, your players' playstyles, and the necessary story outcomes for each session. With practical tips on forecasting player decisions, avoiding overprepping, and keeping the focus on your players, you'll find practical ideas to make your preparation more efficient and power up your GMing game!

In this special episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben sit down with Tad Leckman, a seasoned learning professional with experience at Industrial Light and Magic, Activision-Blizzard, and as a game design instructor at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Tad shares his insights on leading creative teams in both games and movies and how those skills overlap with the role of a gamemaster. We discuss the art of crafting compelling tutorial plays, explore the nuances of different RPG genres and gameplay styles, and dive into the time and creativity demands of various genres. Tad also recommends books and modules that showcase brilliant game design. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will inspire you to put some new books on your shelf and try some new ideas with your players.

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben express their gratitude for the players who elevate every RPG experience. They discuss what makes great characters—from those with rich backstories and room for growth, to ones that enhance the party dynamic and align with the campaign. Good players actively share the spotlight, support their fellow players, and feed the GM's creativity. We also explore how GMs can nurture these qualities by building trust, encouraging creativity, and responding to feedback. Tune in for tips on fostering a positive, engaging environment where both players and GMs collaborate to create unforgettable experiences at the table.

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben explore how to make your villains unforgettable and keep them central to the story. From ensuring your villain's presence is felt—even when they're not on screen—to effective ways of insulating them from overzealous players, we cover the strategies that keep your players' hated foes active and compelling. Learn how to introduce your villains with impact, create memorable encounters, and provide colorful escapes that enrich your narrative. We'll also discuss the importance of crafting a villain's motivations and weaknesses, and how to build a lasting impression that will haunt your players long after the game ends.

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben dive into the world of villains and how to craft memorable antagonists for your RPG campaigns. Drawing inspiration from cinema, they explore how different villain archetypes—like the Authority, the Bully, and the Mastermind—translate to the tabletop and the unique challenges of portraying them. They discuss effective ways to reveal villains and create emotional stakes that keep players on edge. Learn how to create complex, memorable foes and bring your rogues gallery to life.

In the this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben explore the myriad tools available today to enhance player immersion and spark imagination in tabletop RPGs. From sourcing evocative music—like soundtracks from iconic films and ambient tracks on YouTube—to the importance of maps and miniatures, they discuss how each element can elevate your game. Learn about the benefits and costs of using miniatures, the role of dice and accessories like dice trays and towers, and the power of concept art to fire creativity. Tune in for practical advice on how to create an immersive environment that captivates your players and enriches your storytelling!We mentioned Stat Trackers for D&D 5e, you can check them out here. If you want to get into painting, check out the Miniac, and if you want to try your hand at building terrain, visit Black Magic Craft. Chessex Battle Mats are a staple item for many GMs. The music by Jo Blankenburg you can sample on YouTube.

In this special Halloween episode of Tabletop Tune Up, we explore how to craft immersive horror experiences that leave players trembling. Discover how to set the mood with ambiance, sound, and props while building suspense through subtle hints of unseen threats. Learn to limit planning time to maintain urgency and use dice sparingly to enhance emotional impact. We'll discuss tough choices that elevate stakes and the strategic use of splitting the party to amplify fear. Finally, master vivid descriptions that engage all senses and create a truly terrifying atmosphere. Join us for spine-tingling insights into heightening your horror RPG sessions!

This week Mark and Ben induct you into the fascinating world of factions within your RPG civilizations. We explore what factions are, and how they play a critical role in driving conflict and drama in your campaigns.Factions help your characters align their moral compass, and add layers to your story by challenging your players to navigate their agendas. Learn practical strategies for incorporating factions into your campaigns effectively by giving them clear goals that drive your story forward and create depth for both heroes and villains. From secret societies and cults to military organizations and criminal guilds, we'll explore how factions can create compelling narratives and enhance the stakes of your game.

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, we sit down for an insightful conversation with Chris Robichaud, a philosopher, an RPG enthusiast, and most importantly, our guide into the dark realms of the horror RPG genre. Join us as Chris leads Mark and Ben into the chilling world of horror GMing to explore the elements that make it both captivating and unique.We kick off the discussion by asking Chris about his favorite horror films and novels, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the emotional experiences GMs aim to create in horror RPGs. Learn about the crucial role of player buy-in, the importance of vulnerability, and the art of information control in crafting an unforgettable horror RPG experience. Chris also shares valuable advice on how to get started that will inspire and prepare new GMs looking to dive into the world of horror RPGs.Bonus! Here as promised is Chris's list of horror films and books.FilmsThe ExorcistFrankensteinKing KongThe ShiningTexas Chainsaw MassacreThe Thing (1982)Night of the Living DeadAlienGodzillaHalloweenThe Devil Rides OutBram Stoker's DraculaPsychoThe Fly (1986)SuspiriaHowlingHellraiserThe Wicker ManInvasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)RinguThe HauntingHouse of UsherGet OutPoltergeistRosemary's BabyBooksFrankensteinDraculaITHaunting of Hill HousePoe Collected StoriesLovecraft Collected StoriesBooks of BloodLigotti Collected StoriesTurn of the ScrewGhost StoryHell HouseVampire LestatTales of Terror & the SupernaturalThe Dark DescentDon't Look NowHouse of LeavesThe Case Against SatanCome Closer My DeathThe Strange Case of Jeckle/Hyde Island of Doctor MoreauLet the Right One InThe CeremoniesHaunted - Joyce Carol OatesGhosts - Edith Wharton

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben dive into the magical concept of wonder—an essential element that makes RPGs a unique and shared experience. Moments of wonder not only inspire players but also serve as story high points that elevate campaigns to unforgettable heights.We'll explore how you can invest wonder in the nouns of your game, persons, places, and things. Additionally, we'll discuss wondrous items, as highlighted in previous episodes, and how their reveal can create unforgettable moments. Create impossible things that players can interact with and time your wonders to enhance the impact of your campaign's great moments.Join us for a deep dive into cultivating wonder in your RPG sessions, and learn how to spur your players' imaginations to create truly memorable experiences that resonate long after the dice have been rolled.

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben explore the intertwined topics of civilizations and history in worldbuilding. We dive into how civilizations shape cultures, characters, and narratives. History is the backdrop to your players' adventures, influencing motivations for villains and allies alike. You can help your players experience a realm that feels alive and deeply rooted in its history.Join us for an insightful exploration of how to create captivating civilizations and histories that elevate your RPG campaigns and draw your players into a world full of depth and intrigue.

In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben dive into the challenging topic of recovering from a campaign that has hit a rough patch. We'll explore a range of issues that can derail a campaign, including story problems, bad social dynamics, poor system fit, and the ever present hazard of a dice attack!We'll discuss strategies for assessing what went wrong, evaluating player engagement, and ensuring a healthy group dynamic. When facing setbacks, should you push forward or take a break? Explore the importance of self-care and maintaining perspective. Reset player dynamics with open conversations about what went wrong. We'll also cover practical steps to fit the game system to your group, how to get inspired by other GMs, exploring new influences outside of gaming, and how to use setbacks as opportunities for growth.

In the fourteenth episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben tackle the art of world mapping—an essential aspect of crafting immersive RPG settings. This episode offers practical guidance on creating maps that support every kind of adventure, from fantasy realms and superhero cities to futuristic sci-fi worlds.We'll explore how to start with a broad, “low resolution” overview of your world and gradually add detail as your campaign unfolds. Learn how to incorporate geography, points of interest, and the impact of historical and mythological events on your world's layout. Discover strategies for making travel interesting, whether it's seafaring, superhero commuting, naming conventions, subjective cultural perspectives, or navigating hazards in deep space. We'll also discuss the value of player input, such as having them contribute points of interest or even create their own maps.Join us as we dive into the practical aspects of mapping your world and enhancing your RPG setting with dynamic and engaging geography!

In this episode Mark and Ben interview a GM who's been an important influence on their games and growth as GMs. Meet Randy, whose homebrewed world began drawn with colored pencils on letter-sized paper inspired decades of gameplay with several local groups. We'll ask Randy about Kiras, about how he weaves character stories and player inputs into his world, and some of his mapping ideas. We hope you'll learn a few new tricks from his work ethic and attention to detail, just as we once did.

In the twelfth episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben dive into one of the most profound aspects of worldbuilding: religion. We'll discuss the role of metaphysical beings and their non-fantasy counterparts, as well as institutional religion. From ancient pantheons in fantasy settings to the mysterious gods or powerful aliens of science fiction, learn how these "Powers" can shape the stories and characters in your game without reducing them to mere mechanics.Additionally, we'll consider institutional religion, exploring its cultural impact and the opportunities it presents for storytelling and character development. Learn how to incorporate religious institutions in ways that enhance rather than constrain your game.Join us as we continue our worldbuilding series, and stay tuned for upcoming episodes featuring more in-depth exploration of worldbuilding topics for your RPG universe.

In the eleventh episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben kick off a new series dedicated to the art of worldbuilding. Whether you're designing a fantastical realm, a superhero city, or a sci-fi galaxy, this episode lays the groundwork for creating a rich, immersive world for your RPG campaigns.Explore why homebrewing your own setting can be such a rewarding endeavor, offering you creative freedom, control, and a deep sense of ownership. We'll discuss the benefits of crafting a world tailored to your narrative and how involving players in shaping the world can lead to high engagement and dynamic storytelling.Delve into the common challenges of worldbuilding, from overcoming the blank page to maintaining uniqueness and consistency. Learn practical tips on how to start small, build foundational elements, and use player feedback to enrich your setting. Whether you're a seasoned GM or new to the art of crafting your own universe, this episode provides valuable advice and inspiration to help you build a world you can campaign in for years.

In the tenth episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben explore the fascinating world of special items in RPGs—those unique and memorable pieces of gear that can enhance storytelling and gameplay, or potentially disrupt it. From iconic artifacts like Excalibur and Mjolnir to magical relics and futuristic tech, we delve into how these items can define characters, embody themes, and drive plotlines. Discover how to use special items to tell compelling stories, highlight character growth, and create memorable moments. We'll also discuss the delicate balance required when integrating such items into your game—ensuring they enhance rather than overshadow your campaign. Learn about the risks of game balance, how to avoid stepping on players' toes, and when and how to introduce or retire items effectively. Whether you're looking to craft your own game-changing items or fine-tune existing ones, this episode provides insights on creating items with depth and purpose while maintaining the integrity of your game. Tune in for tips on balancing gameplay, designing items with rich backstories, and handling potential pitfalls to keep your game running smoothly and your players engaged.

Leonard Pimental is a game designer responsible for several games including Black Star and By This Axe I Hack, but he came to our attention for a superhero game called Prowlers and Paragons that we had a lot of fun with. In this interview, get to know the Superhero genre, get some fresh insights on game design, and learn how to tune up your superhero adventures for longer campaigns. Check out Len's work under the Lakeside Games imprint.

In the eighth episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben tackle a crucial aspect of game mastering—engaging your players. Ensuring that players remain invested and enthusiastic about your game can be a challenging task, and knowing how to keep their attention can make all the difference in creating a memorable RPG experience. Join us as we explore the common pitfalls that can lead to disengagement and discover practical tips and techniques for reigniting interest and keeping the game at the forefront of your players' minds. Whether you're facing a lull in your current campaign or simply want to enhance your game's appeal, tune in for strategies that will help you keep your players invested in every session.

In the seventh episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben delve into the art of character introductions in RPGs. The moment when a player's character first steps into the spotlight can set the tone for their entire journey, and crafting these introductions thoughtfully can lead to memorable and impactful moments. Discover how to motivate your players to go beyond basic mechanical descriptions and create vibrant, engaging entrances that showcase their characters' personalities and backstories. Learn strategies to design compelling circumstances and scenarios that not only give each character a chance to shine but also bring the party together cohesively right from the start.

Join Mark and Ben in the sixth episode of Tabletop Tune Up as they explore the revolutionary impact of Generative AI on tabletop RPGs. Generative AI tools have emerged as powerful aids for game masters, offering efficient solutions to streamline preparation time and enhance the overall quality of gameplay. From generating detailed NPCs and dynamic story hooks, to automating world-building and encounter design, Gen AI holds tremendous potential to empower home GMs with tools previously reserved for professional studios. However, this technology isn't without its controversies and risks. Tune in as we discuss the pitfalls and best practices for integrating Gen AI into your RPG toolkit responsibly.

In this episode, Mark and Ben dive deep into the realm of house rules in RPGs. House rules can breathe new life into game systems, offering unique opportunities for customization and enhancing gameplay dynamics. However, they also come with potential pitfalls if not implemented thoughtfully. Join us as we explore the art of creating house rules that enrich your gaming experience while maintaining balance and fairness. From adapting rules to better fit your group's playstyle and narrative goals, to navigating player and GM consensus, this episode provides practical advice and cautionary tales to help you navigate the world of house rules with confidence.

In this episode, Mark and Ben interview a GM named Dylan, who's new to the GM's chair, but brings a lot of great energy, confidence, and some unique player management skills to his table. Tune in as Dylan Tunes Up our hosts in this lively episode of Tabletop Tune Up!

Join Mark and Ben as they tackle the exciting topic of launching an RPG campaign. Starting a new campaign can feel daunting, but fear not—we're here to guide you through the process of laying a solid foundation for your adventures. From brainstorming compelling stories and worlds to establishing player expectations, this episode covers essential steps to ensure a successful campaign launch. Whether you're a first-time game master or a seasoned storyteller seeking fresh inspiration, tune in for practical tips, creative strategies, and insightful discussion that will empower you to embark on your next campaign with confidence and creativity.

In the second episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben explore the fascinating world of Rituals in RPG gameplay. Rituals are the subtle customs and routines that imbue our games with regularity, structure, suspense, and moments of release. From the ritualistic ways we begin and end sessions, to the suspenseful moments of rolling initiative or revealing plot twists, these rituals shape the cadence and atmosphere of our tabletop adventures. Join us as we uncover how Rituals can enhance immersion, build anticipation, and foster deeper engagement among players and game masters alike. Whether you're looking to refine existing rituals or introduce new ones to your gaming group, this episode offers practical advice and creative ideas to elevate your RPG experience to a new level of storytelling mastery.

Join Mark and Ben in the inaugural episode of Tabletop Tune Up as they delve into the essential pillars that uphold every RPG adventure: the Gamemaster (GM), the Players, and the always unpredictable dice. In this episode, we explore how these elements harmonize to create unforgettable tabletop experiences. From the GM's pivotal role in crafting worlds and narratives, to the dynamic interplay between Players who breathe life into characters, and the capricious nature of dice that can sway destinies with a roll. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or new to the realm of tabletop RPGs, this episode promises insights and tips to fine-tune your game mastering skills and enhance the collaborative storytelling magic of RPGs.