Podcasts about dungeon masters

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: We test our knowledge and talk about all the answers. Inspiration: Diabolical D&D Quiz Exercise: Our brains! Supplements: D&D Trivial Pursuit Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

John welcomes back Phil Hay (Destroyer, The Invitation) to ask, how do you get a movie made with independent financing? They look at how indie movies get made, where you get the money, deciding when to go indie, and whether streamers complicate the picture. We also follow up on testing movies with focus groups and answer listener questions on how to navigate the editing room, daily routines, and what to do when your story has too many themes. In our bonus segment for premium members, we look back on what Phil learned about D&D from his documentary The Dungeon Masters. Links: Phil Hay Scriptnotes Episode 244, Episode 377, and Episode 505 The Dungeon Masters The Answering Machine Meltdown from Swingers John's daily to-do template Pamela Ribon's One Act documentary Petey USA's The Yips KOXY College Radio Get your copy of the Scriptnotes book! Get a Scriptnotes T-shirt! Check out the Inneresting Newsletter Become a Scriptnotes Premium member, or gift a subscription Subscribe to Scriptnotes on YouTube Follow Scriptnotes on Instagram and TikTok John August on Bluesky and Instagram Outro by Craig Good (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Drew Marquardt and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at ask@johnaugust.com You can download the episode here.

Dan and Paul dive into the D&D adventures they would happily run again and again. From classic tournament modules to sprawling campaign epics, what adventures stand the test of time? Which modules keep surprising players, reveal new depths on repeat play, and remain endlessly rewarding for Dungeon Masters? Join us as we discuss the adventures we'd revisit forever, what makes a module replayable, and the design qualities that turn a good scenario into a timeless classic.

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: Every species you know the PCs will take. Inspiration: Best Weird D&D Species Exercise: Wonderfully Weird World Supplements: Pirate Borg  Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

Running your first D&D session can feel overwhelming — but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, Brian walks new Game Masters through a simple, step-by-step approach to running their first session with confidence. You'll learn: How to structure your first game What to focus on (and what to ignore) How to handle rules uncertainty How to keep players engaged Common beginner mistakes to avoid Perfect for new Dungeon Masters preparing for Session 1. --- Check out the links below to join a community of new and experiences players to help you on your gaming journey: Discord ➡️ https://discord.gg/uqfUzg3aH5 Instagram ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/brianthebeardednerd/ TikTok ➡️ https://www.tiktok.com/@thebeardednerd1   Do you finally want to try playing Dungeons & Dragons? Do you want to learn how to play in a more relaxed environment? Feel free to book a session with me here: https://www.ttrpgacademy.life/store

Hearken, travelers, to this gathering of Game Masters, wherein the Lords speak of the folk who breathe life into realms of fantasy and adventure - the Non-Player Characters! From steadfast companions and black-hearted villains to merry fools and curious villagers, we unravel the craft of creating memorable souls to wander thy world. We speak of weaving these characters into grand tales, stirring the hearts of players through cunning plots, tense encounters, and moments of laughter round the table. Come, and learn how a well-spun character may turn a humble campaign into a legend sung through the ages!

Send us Fan MailGreetings adventurers! Welcome to The Crithalla Podcast, and welcome back! In this episode Wayward Traveler, join Cosmic Key as he once again is joined by those elusive creatures, those Hobos of Murder and those Who Cancel Games and Conflict Schedules .... THE PLAYERS! We have a returning champion and a plucky newcomer with us today as we discuss their perspectives on all things roleplaying. Gumbo even joins in on the discussion!  Hope you enjoy the latest episode of the World Famous CRITHALLA PODCAST!

Hey, it's our 400th numbered episode! Check it out. Big announcements about the podcast, plus the 400 (or so) reasons/feelings/vibes why we love being Dungeon Masters. The Oracle: https://open.spotify.com/show/6imtB64oHORHtrxVVoyZOm  Follow Dungeon Master of None on Blue Sky:  https://bsky.app/profile/dmofnone.bsky.social   https://www.patreon.com/DungeonMasterOfNone   Join the DMofNone Discord! Music: Pac Div - Roll the Dice

Pinnacle Entertainment Group is launching a Kickstarter campaign on Tuesday, May 5th, 2026, for East Texas University: Fresh Blood, a fully updated edition of their cult-favorite college horror setting for the Savage Worlds roleplaying game. The game, set in Pinebox, Texas, blends campus life with supernatural horror, challenging players to balance their academic lives with survival against strange and deadly forces. The new edition updates the fan-favorite setting for the latest Savage Worlds Adventure Edition and introduces a brand-new Plot Point Campaign that carries players through their entire college career. The campaign features a 228-page core book, the Chickens in the Mist graphic novel, and an accessories box. Modiphius Entertainment announced the upcoming release of the Star Trek Adventures 2E: Allies and Adversaries Sourcebook, slated for July 2026. This 128-page, full-color supplement for the Star Trek Adventures RPG is geared primarily toward Gamemasters and offers new lore and mechanics for the various factions and NPCs in the Star Trek Universe. The book provides detailed background information on major powers, including the Borg, Cardassians, Dominion, Klingon Empire, Romulans, and Tholians. Additionally, it expands on NPC content with new stat blocks and includes rules and guidance for creating original creatures. The physical hardcover version will retail for $54 USD. Wizards of the Coast (WotC) has launched a new official Actual Play show called Dungeon Masters, starring Jasmine Bhullar as the Dungeon Master. Alongside the show, WotC is releasing free Play-Along Packs, which are standalone encounters designed for home games and include early access to a monster from Ravenloft: The Horrors Within. The first pack, “Zombie Clot,” features a fight in the village of Hroth, where a grieving doctor has unleashed undead horrors. This pack provides stats for the Swarm of Zombie Limbs and the Zombie Clot, which is described as a putrid mass of rotten flesh with a singular will. Two new softcover adventures for the Mothership Sci-Fi Horror RPG are now available: Orphans and Straight Arrows. Orphans by Tuesday Knight Games is a one-shot starter adventure that is highly-regarded as an excellent introduction to the system. In it, player characters (PCs) are a corporate retrieval team sent to Imuen Station to find two missing children, who are being protected by “AUNTIE,” a terrifying creature made of moss and bones. Straight Arrows by RAC Computing is a 36-page campaign setting where the PCs are bounty hunters for the insidious Arrow Biomed corporation, performing extrajudicial abductions of privileged addicts. This module focuses on a gritty, dystopian corporate horror vibe and incorporates social issues like drug crime and a tiered healthcare system. #dungeonmasters #stal #eturpg #mothership East Texas University: Fresh Blood: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/545820095/east-texas-university-fresh-blood-savage-worlds D&D Beyond Play Along Pack: https://www.dndbeyond.com/claim/source/dungeon-masters-zombie-clot-play-along-pack Orphans: https://www.tuesdayknightgames.com/products/orphans Straight Arrows: https://www.tuesdayknightgames.com/products/straight-arrows Dune Bundles: Physical – https://humblebundleinc.sjv.io/1G1KE9 Digital – https://humblebundleinc.sjv.io/WO4PBA Warmachine on MyMiniFactory: https://mmf.io/upturned Mantic Companion App: https://companion.manticgames.com/ Use our Referral code: MCTXEE Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link): https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746 Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson https://substack.com/@matthewrobinson3 Chris on social media: https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​ Jeremy's Links: http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​ http://www.rcharvey.com ​​Support Us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/upturnedtable Give us a tip on our livestream: https://streamlabs.com/upturnedtabletop/tip​ Donate or give us a tip on Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/2754JZFW2QZU4 Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

This week we revisit the hidden differences between D&D 5e and 5.5e, review the Dungeon Masters live play "Play Along Pack", and Dael actually reads an Unearthed Arcana including the Barbarian Path of Lament, Monk Warrior of Venom, and Warlock Primordial Patron.LAST WEEK to back Lairs of Etharis: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHLA_2026_4_236Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.comBen: @TheBenByrneDael: @dailydaelTodd: @ToddKenreckShawn: @shawnmerwinEditor: @jberrtTopics:00:00 - D&D 5.5e rules Quiz14:39 - Do you like a one-shot?23:10 - D&D live play "Play Along Pack"38:53 - Unearthed Arcana: Villains 249:03 - Louis Zocchi passing50:24 - D&D 6e on the horizon?

Ryan and Ben praise the Dungeon Masters actual play, look into round 2 of the Villainous Subclasses, and then discuss how to join in for improv and story at the table. Community Pages: Dungeon Masters episodes 1 and 2; Dungeon Masters: Zombieclot Play-along pack; Designer Insights Villainous Options 2; Villainous Options 2 Unearthed Arcana; Ginny Di video: “This game fixes D&Ds ‘roll persuasion’ problem.” Socials: Discord; Bluesky; Ryan's Bluesky; Ben's Bluesky

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: We move right through this one! Inspiration: Best Mobility Spells Exercise: Gotta Move It Move! Light Bulb: Loke Battle Mats Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

This week we're cracking open the long list of monsters to discuss how the typing of monsters can help Dungeon Masters. This classification system, although at times arbitrary, can lend itself to a variety of advantages. From worldbuilding to encounter creation, from lore dropping to character backstories… we're going to cover it all! Music by Epidemic Sound Use our Link to check out Epidemic Sound for all your music and sound effect needs. Gang, this has changed the game for us!  Epidemic Sound Link And remember to give us 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ AND a positive review! This helps us so much, so tell your friends!  We have VIDEO now! Subscribe to our YouTube to see the podcast! And other content! --------------------------- And CLICK HERE to find links to our Patreon, Discord, YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, Instagram, and more! Email us at Soyouwannabeadm@gmail.com WE HAVE MERCH! Click the link above!

Struggling with slow or boring combat in Dungeons & Dragons? In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, Brian breaks down how new Game Masters can make combat faster, more engaging, and more meaningful — without adding complexity. You'll learn: Why combat feels slow or repetitive How to design better combat encounters Ways to add tension and stakes How to speed up combat at the table Beginner-friendly combat tips Perfect for new Dungeon Masters running their first campaigns. Check out the links below to join a community of new and experiences players to help you on your gaming journey:   Discord ➡️ https://discord.gg/uqfUzg3aH5 Instagram ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/brianthebeardednerd/ TikTok ➡️ https://www.tiktok.com/@thebeardednerd1   Do you finally want to try playing Dungeons & Dragons? Do you want to learn how to play in a more relaxed environment? Feel free to book a session with me here: https://www.ttrpgacademy.life/store  

Show Notes Step into the Feywild, where nothing behaves quite the way you expect and everything feels just a little too magical to trust. In this episode, twe dive into one of the most unpredictable and story-rich planes in Dungeons and Dragons, blending lore, mechanics, and table advice into a conversation that feels equal parts wonder and warning. We explore how the Feywild mirrors the Material Plane while twisting it through emotion, whimsy, and ancient magic, creating a setting where time slips, deals carry hidden costs, and even the landscape seems alive. The discussion leans into what makes Feywild adventures so memorable for both players and Dungeon Masters. From strange courts and powerful archfey to bizarre creatures and shifting environments, the plane rewards creativity but punishes assumptions. We share practical tips for running Feywild encounters, including how to lean into roleplay, embrace unpredictability, and use narrative consequences instead of straightforward combat. We also touch on common pitfalls, like overcomplicating the chaos or losing player direction in a setting that thrives on confusion. Along the way, the episode highlights how to build compelling Feywild story hooks, design encounters that feel magical without becoming frustrating, and balance humor with danger. Whether you are planning a full Feywild campaign or just a quick planar detour, this episode offers a grounded way to bring the Feywild to life while keeping your table engaged and entertained. Key Takeaways The Feywild is a reflection of the Material Plane shaped by emotion, magic, and unpredictability Time, distance, and logic do not behave normally, which creates unique storytelling opportunities Archfey and their courts are central to Feywild adventures and often drive the narrative Roleplay and creative problem solving matter more than combat in most Feywild encounters Deals and bargains are a core mechanic, and consequences should always matter Dungeon Masters should embrace chaos but still provide enough structure to guide players Strange creatures, environments, and magical effects help make the Feywild feel alive The best Feywild sessions balance whimsy, danger, and a sense that something is always slightly off Welcome to the RPGBOT Podcast. If you love Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and tabletop RPGs, this is the podcast for you. Support the show for free: Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast app. It helps new listeners find the best RPG podcast for D&D and Pathfinder players. Level up your experience: Join us on Patreon to unlock ad-free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT Podcast, chat with us and the community on the RPGBOT Discord, and jump into live-streamed RPG podcast recordings. Support while you shop: Use our Amazon affiliate link at https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ and help us keep building tools and guides for the RPG community. Meet the Hosts Tyler Kamstra – Master of mechanics, seeing the Pathfinder action economy like Neo in the Matrix. Randall James – Lore buff and technologist, always ready to debate which Lord of the Rings edition reigns supreme. Ash Ely – Resident cynic, chaos agent, and AI's worst nightmare, bringing pure table-flipping RPG podcast energy. Join the RPGBOT team where fantasy roleplaying meets real strategy, sarcasm, and community chaos. How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale (affiliate link) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

Show Notes Step into the Feywild, where nothing behaves quite the way you expect and everything feels just a little too magical to trust. In this episode, twe dive into one of the most unpredictable and story-rich planes in Dungeons and Dragons, blending lore, mechanics, and table advice into a conversation that feels equal parts wonder and warning. We explore how the Feywild mirrors the Material Plane while twisting it through emotion, whimsy, and ancient magic, creating a setting where time slips, deals carry hidden costs, and even the landscape seems alive. The discussion leans into what makes Feywild adventures so memorable for both players and Dungeon Masters. From strange courts and powerful archfey to bizarre creatures and shifting environments, the plane rewards creativity but punishes assumptions. We share practical tips for running Feywild encounters, including how to lean into roleplay, embrace unpredictability, and use narrative consequences instead of straightforward combat. We also touch on common pitfalls, like overcomplicating the chaos or losing player direction in a setting that thrives on confusion. Along the way, the episode highlights how to build compelling Feywild story hooks, design encounters that feel magical without becoming frustrating, and balance humor with danger. Whether you are planning a full Feywild campaign or just a quick planar detour, this episode offers a grounded way to bring the Feywild to life while keeping your table engaged and entertained. Key Takeaways The Feywild is a reflection of the Material Plane shaped by emotion, magic, and unpredictability Time, distance, and logic do not behave normally, which creates unique storytelling opportunities Archfey and their courts are central to Feywild adventures and often drive the narrative Roleplay and creative problem solving matter more than combat in most Feywild encounters Deals and bargains are a core mechanic, and consequences should always matter Dungeon Masters should embrace chaos but still provide enough structure to guide players Strange creatures, environments, and magical effects help make the Feywild feel alive The best Feywild sessions balance whimsy, danger, and a sense that something is always slightly off Welcome to the RPGBOT Podcast. If you love Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and tabletop RPGs, this is the podcast for you. Support the show for free: Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast app. It helps new listeners find the best RPG podcast for D&D and Pathfinder players. Level up your experience: Join us on Patreon to unlock ad-free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT Podcast, chat with us and the community on the RPGBOT Discord, and jump into live-streamed RPG podcast recordings. Support while you shop: Use our Amazon affiliate link at https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ and help us keep building tools and guides for the RPG community. Meet the Hosts Tyler Kamstra – Master of mechanics, seeing the Pathfinder action economy like Neo in the Matrix. Randall James – Lore buff and technologist, always ready to debate which Lord of the Rings edition reigns supreme. Ash Ely – Resident cynic, chaos agent, and AI's worst nightmare, bringing pure table-flipping RPG podcast energy. Join the RPGBOT team where fantasy roleplaying meets real strategy, sarcasm, and community chaos. How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale (affiliate link) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

What is a sandbox campaign in D&D — and how do you run one without losing control? In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, Brian explains how new Game Masters can balance player freedom with narrative structure in open-world tabletop RPG campaigns. You'll learn: What sandbox play actually means How to prep factions instead of plots How to add stakes and escalation How to guide players without railroading Beginner-friendly sandbox structure Perfect for new Dungeon Masters building their first open-world campaign!   Check out the links below to join a community of new and experiences players to help you on your gaming journey:   Discord ➡️ https://discord.gg/uqfUzg3aH5 Instagram ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/brianthebeardednerd/ TikTok ➡️ https://www.tiktok.com/@thebeardednerd1   Do you finally want to try playing Dungeons & Dragons? Do you want to learn how to play in a more relaxed environment? Feel free to book a session with me here: https://www.ttrpgacademy.life/store

Big moments deserve big battles—and in Episode 150, we're diving headfirst into what makes a boss fight truly unforgettable. From tension-building mechanics and dynamic environments to avoiding the dreaded “bag of hit points,” we break down how Dungeon Masters can craft encounters that feel cinematic, challenging, and earned. Whether your table craves nail-biting strategy or epic, story-driven showdowns, this episode is packed with practical tips and table-tested ideas to help your next final boss leave a lasting impression. Join the host as they discuss how they make boss fights spectacular. You can likely pick up any of these games at your local game store. Of course, support your local game store. If you don't have a local game store, support ours! * Noble Knight Games: https://www.nobleknight.com/ * Misty Mountain Games: https://www.mistymountaingames.com/ Subscribe and Listen to the WiscoDice Tabletop Gaming Podcast: * Subscribe on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gh/podcast/wiscodice/ * Subscribe on Audible Podcasts: https://www.audible.com/pd/Podcast/B08JJP2YNR * Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Vzy8kFT0oC2YrXvNB5R6T * Subscribe on Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/wiscodice Please also follow us on our social networks * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WiscoDice * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiscodice/ * WiscoDice Discord: https://discord.gg/mD4Fw8gMZF

Good morrow, esteemed Cabalists. On this day, the Lords of the Dungeon convene in earnest discourse upon the noble Art of designing encounters within the realm of role-playing. They shall expound upon the intricacies of social dealings, the perils and stratagems of martial combat, and the treacherous trials imposed by the very environment itself, each bearing its own hazards and the promise of worthy reward. By what methods, then, might one craft encounters most fitting and memorable for their grand adventures? Attend closely, and let the inquiry be joined with vigor. Huzzah!

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: Time to break the mold! Inspiration: Builds That Can Break the Rules of Their Class Exercise: C-C-C-Class Breakers Light Bulb: Time Timer Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

In this episode Jeff and Tracy review campaign journals made for D&D players and Dungeon Masters. Thanks to our Sponsor: The Tome Show's Awesome Patreon Patrons!!!!!!!!!!!! Links: Jeff on Twitter Tracy on Twitter Tracy on the Web Thetomeshow.com Patreon.com/thetomeshow

In this episode Jeff and Tracy review campaign journals made for D&D players and Dungeon Masters. Thanks to our Sponsor: The Tome Show's Awesome Patreon Patrons!!!!!!!!!!!! Links: Jeff on Twitter Tracy on Twitter Tracy on the Web Thetomeshow.com Patreon.com/thetomeshow

The party stands heroically on the docks. The bard composes a sea shanty. The fighter sharpens his sword. The wizard prepares a speech about buoyancy physics he read on a forum at 3:00 AM. The rogue realizes sneak attack requires not drowning. The cleric discovers healing word does not cure lack of oxygen (or does it?). The DM Googles drowing rules mid-initiative because everyone forgot how breathing works. Welcome to underwater combat, where your character sheet becomes a flotation device and the real boss monster is physics. Show Notes In this episode the RPGBOT crew dives into underwater combat in tabletop RPGs (especially D&D 5e's mechanics), exploring how the environment radically changes tactics, character builds, spell effectiveness, and encounter design. From fighting sea monsters to exploring sunken cities, the episode focuses on helping both players and Dungeon Masters survive combat in aquatic environments. The hosts discuss how underwater encounters fundamentally alter normal assumptions about combat: movement slows, weapon effectiveness changes, ranged attacks suffer, and suddenly everyone cares deeply about breathing. Holding your breath and weapon limitations become major survival mechanics, sometimes more dangerous than the enemies themselves. They also cover adventure design inspiration from nautical campaigns and aquatic modules, emphasizing that underwater sessions feel memorable because they force players to rethink their habits. Instead of pure damage math, success often depends on preparation, environment-appropriate gear, teamwork, and creative problem solving. The episode balances mechanical analysis with humor, especially the universal tabletop experience of realizing too late that your character was designed exclusively for land combat and is now essentially a confused housecat thrown into the ocean. Ultimately, the crew frames underwater encounters as a powerful storytelling tool: when used intentionally, aquatic combat becomes less about hit points and more about tension, creative problem solving, and environmental immersion. Key Takeaways Underwater combat changes the meta: normal D&D 5e tactics don't always work the same way. Breathing mechanics and suffocation rules can be deadlier than monsters. Many weapons and ranged attacks are dramatically less effective underwater. Spell choice matters. Some spells become amazing while others become useless. Movement restrictions force teamwork and positioning strategy. Preparation (gear, magic, planning) beats raw DPR optimization. Aquatic encounters create memorable sessions because players must adapt. Environmental storytelling works best when mechanics reinforce danger. DMs should telegraph danger so failure feels fair, not arbitrary. Randall should not be trusted with physics experiments. Welcome to the RPGBOT Podcast. If you love Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and tabletop RPGs, this is the podcast for you. Support the show for free: Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast app. It helps new listeners find the best RPG podcast for D&D and Pathfinder players. Level up your experience: Join us on Patreon to unlock ad-free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT Podcast, chat with us and the community on the RPGBOT Discord, and jump into live-streamed RPG podcast recordings. Support while you shop: Use our Amazon affiliate link at https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ and help us keep building tools and guides for the RPG community. Meet the Hosts Tyler Kamstra – Master of mechanics, seeing the Pathfinder action economy like Neo in the Matrix. Randall James – Lore buff and technologist, always ready to debate which Lord of the Rings edition reigns supreme. Ash Ely – Resident cynic, chaos agent, and AI's worst nightmare, bringing pure table-flipping RPG podcast energy. Join the RPGBOT team where fantasy roleplaying meets real strategy, sarcasm, and community chaos. How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale (affiliate link) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

The party stands heroically on the docks. The bard composes a sea shanty. The fighter sharpens his sword. The wizard prepares a speech about buoyancy physics he read on a forum at 3:00 AM. The rogue realizes sneak attack requires not drowning. The cleric discovers healing word does not cure lack of oxygen (or does it?). The DM Googles drowing rules mid-initiative because everyone forgot how breathing works. Welcome to underwater combat, where your character sheet becomes a flotation device and the real boss monster is physics. Show Notes In this episode the RPGBOT crew dives into underwater combat in tabletop RPGs (especially D&D 5e's mechanics), exploring how the environment radically changes tactics, character builds, spell effectiveness, and encounter design. From fighting sea monsters to exploring sunken cities, the episode focuses on helping both players and Dungeon Masters survive combat in aquatic environments. The hosts discuss how underwater encounters fundamentally alter normal assumptions about combat: movement slows, weapon effectiveness changes, ranged attacks suffer, and suddenly everyone cares deeply about breathing. Holding your breath and weapon limitations become major survival mechanics, sometimes more dangerous than the enemies themselves. They also cover adventure design inspiration from nautical campaigns and aquatic modules, emphasizing that underwater sessions feel memorable because they force players to rethink their habits. Instead of pure damage math, success often depends on preparation, environment-appropriate gear, teamwork, and creative problem solving. The episode balances mechanical analysis with humor, especially the universal tabletop experience of realizing too late that your character was designed exclusively for land combat and is now essentially a confused housecat thrown into the ocean. Ultimately, the crew frames underwater encounters as a powerful storytelling tool: when used intentionally, aquatic combat becomes less about hit points and more about tension, creative problem solving, and environmental immersion. Key Takeaways Underwater combat changes the meta: normal D&D 5e tactics don't always work the same way. Breathing mechanics and suffocation rules can be deadlier than monsters. Many weapons and ranged attacks are dramatically less effective underwater. Spell choice matters. Some spells become amazing while others become useless. Movement restrictions force teamwork and positioning strategy. Preparation (gear, magic, planning) beats raw DPR optimization. Aquatic encounters create memorable sessions because players must adapt. Environmental storytelling works best when mechanics reinforce danger. DMs should telegraph danger so failure feels fair, not arbitrary. Randall should not be trusted with physics experiments. Welcome to the RPGBOT Podcast. If you love Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and tabletop RPGs, this is the podcast for you. Support the show for free: Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast app. It helps new listeners find the best RPG podcast for D&D and Pathfinder players. Level up your experience: Join us on Patreon to unlock ad-free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT Podcast, chat with us and the community on the RPGBOT Discord, and jump into live-streamed RPG podcast recordings. Support while you shop: Use our Amazon affiliate link at https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ and help us keep building tools and guides for the RPG community. Meet the Hosts Tyler Kamstra – Master of mechanics, seeing the Pathfinder action economy like Neo in the Matrix. Randall James – Lore buff and technologist, always ready to debate which Lord of the Rings edition reigns supreme. Ash Ely – Resident cynic, chaos agent, and AI's worst nightmare, bringing pure table-flipping RPG podcast energy. Join the RPGBOT team where fantasy roleplaying meets real strategy, sarcasm, and community chaos. How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale (affiliate link) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

We're back with a special two-hour hang with some of our favorite guests, Temple of Void! Will was on location with the full band in a secret metal dungeon to discuss their crushing new album, The Crawl. Mike, Alex, Jason and Justin talk about the process for writing songs that are redefining their music beyond death doom. Plus, unexpected love for the 90s riffs of Bush, why boxing is truly the sweet science, what D&D character classes best represent the band, the need for exceptional dexterity when shooting music videos and... the power of haiku? All this and more awaits you, brave adventurer, in Episode #166: Dungeon Masters featuring Temple of Void.

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: More than just magic! Inspiration: Magic Weapons That Do More Than +1 Damage Exercise: More Fun Than Just +1 Supplement: Mycologist's Primer Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

Want to design a D&D one-shot without spending hours prepping? In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, Brian breaks down a simple 30-minute framework for building short, engaging one-shot adventures — perfect for new Game Masters. You'll learn: What makes a great one-shot How to structure a single-session adventure What not to overprepare A beginner-friendly one-shot template How to build confidence as a new GM Ideal for new Dungeon Masters and busy adults who want to run great games without burnout. If you believe that you would benefit from one-on-one time to help build the best one-shot, book an appointment by clicking this link.

Hearken, loyal Cabalists, and well met! This day the Lords gather in council to speak upon a matter of great import: the keeping of harmony within the fellowship of the gaming table, and the careful tending of the culture of play that binds our company together. Together shall the assembled Lords deliberate on how best to grant the players the experience they seek, and what rightful charge the Game Master must bear within the fellowship. For as in any kingdom, the balance of duty, guidance, and merriment must be wisely kept.

Great D&D encounters don't happen by accident—they're designed.In this episode of How to Be a Better DM, we break down the first three core rules of encounter design that help Dungeon Masters create encounters that feel meaningful, engaging, and worth the players' time.First, we talk about why simplicity is one of the most powerful tools in encounter design. Overcomplicating encounters often slows the game down, while simple encounters can create fast, exciting, and memorable moments at the table.Next, we introduce the CASE framework—how every encounter should fit into your Campaign, Arc, Session, and Encounter structure. When encounters serve the bigger story, your game starts to feel intentional instead of random.Finally, we cover a rule that many DMs overlook: the party has to want something on the other side of the encounter. Whether it's treasure, progress, information, or simply survival, players need a reason to engage.These three rules will help you design encounters faster, run smoother sessions, and keep your players invested in the game.And this is just the beginning.In Part 2, we'll dive deeper into additional encounter design rules that will help you turn good encounters into unforgettable ones.Thanks for listening to today's show. If you like our stuff and want to support us, here are some sponsor links and links to our other stuff:​Worldsmith: http://session0studios.com/worldsmith​Hire a Professional Dungeon Master: https://session0studios.com/dungeon-master-for-hire/​Roll and Play Press:http://session0studios.com/rollandplay​Phantasm Studios: https://session0studios.com/fantasms​Discord: http://session0studios.com/discord​Patreon:https://session0studios.com/patreon​Dungeon Master Level Up Guide: https://session0studios.com/newsletter

What if your D&D campaign didn't just look and sound immersive… but smelled immersive too?In this episode, we sit down with Scott from Scented Realms to talk about how fantasy-themed scents are transforming tabletop RPGs, Dungeons & Dragons sessions, and immersive storytelling experiences. From taverns and forests to dragon lairs and dark dungeons, Scented Realms is creating scent profiles designed to bring your TTRPG worlds to life in a whole new way.If you're a DM looking to level up your game, a TTRPG fan who loves immersion, or a creator exploring multi-sensory storytelling, this interview is for you.

Social encounters can be intimidating for new Dungeon Masters — especially when you're not sure when to roll dice or how to make conversations meaningful. In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, Brian explains what a social encounter actually is, why NPC conversations sometimes fall flat, and how to make player interactions engaging and impactful. You'll learn: What defines a social encounter in D&D How to give NPCs clear motivations When to use persuasion checks How to add stakes and consequences Beginner-friendly tools for running conversations Perfect for new Dungeon Masters building confidence behind the screen. If you enjoyed this episode of the podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and make sure to follow us here for more Dungeons & Dragons content. Keep Gaming!

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: Things get weird and we love it! Inspiration: Weird Gods Exercise: Get Weird With Gods Supplement: Stranger Things: D&D: Tales from the Table Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

Hark and well met, noble Cabalists! Return ye now to the dust-laden tomes and candlelit halls of the Dungeon Master's Ludus, that ancient library of wisdom and whispered lore. On this day, the Lords gather in solemn counsel to ponder a matter most sacred to all who bear the mantle of Storycrafter - the elusive spark of inspiration. Come then, and let us speak of where ideas flare bright as dragonfire bringing forth sagas of brave heroes, dark ruins, and fearsome beasts.

Welcome to part twenty of my Gaming AD&D: Dungeon Masters Guide Reading series where I rediscover Advanced Dungeons & Dragons with a live audience by reading the core rules. In this episode I will continue reading aloud the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Masters Guide by Gary Gygax, released in August 1979. Buy the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Masters Guide now: https://www.dmsguild.com/en/product/17004/dungeon-master-s-guide-1e?affiliate_id=50797  https://youtube.com/live/ygBqYsqSonQ Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:00 Appendix H: Tricks Continued 5:40 Appendix I: Dungeon Dressing 13:30 Appendix J: Herbs, Spices and Medicinal Vegetables 21:25 Appendix K: Describing Magical Substances 23:50 Appendix L: Conjured Animals 26:11 Appendix M: Summoned Monsters 30:52 Appendix N: Inspirational and Educational Reading 34:33 Appendix O: Encumbrance of Standard Items 39:33 Appendix P: Creating a Party on the Spur of the Moment 45:57 Glossary 58:02 Afterword 1:01:25 Outro About the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Masters Guide The 1st Edition Dungeon Master’s Guide is Back! Dungeon Masters everywhere, rejoice! Too long have you had to suffer along with crucial charts and tables spread through many works. Too long have you had to use makeshift references trying to solve the problem. You now have a complete compilation of the most valuable material for your refereeing, the Dungeon Master’s Guide. Herein you will find: Combat Matrices Encounter Tables Monster Attacks Alphabetically Listed Treasure and Magic Tables and Descriptions Gem Values by Type Random Wilderness Terrain Generation Random Dungeon Generation Suggestions on Game Mastering And a Whole Lot More!  This excellent tome is a must for every Dungeon Master!

There are monsters in tabletop RPGs that exist to be fought, monsters that exist to be feared, and monsters that exist to make the Dungeon Master quietly whisper, "I hope you prepared spells with saving throws." Beholders fall squarely into that last category. This week on RPGBOT.Podcast, we're diving deep into Beholder-Kin — floating orbs of paranoia, laser violence, and architectural malpractice. From tiny gazers that exist solely to be annoying, to death tyrants that refuse to stay dead out of spite, we explore why beholders remain one of Dungeons & Dragons' most iconic, miserable, and tactically terrifying monsters. Along the way, we discuss dream-based reproduction, anti-magic cones, and why every beholder lair looks like it was designed to fail a building inspection on purpose. Show Notes Beholders are one of the oldest and most recognizable monsters in Dungeons & Dragons, and for good reason. They aren't just bags of hit points with flashy attacks — they're intelligent, paranoid, and cruel creatures that reshape both combat and storytelling the moment they appear in a campaign. In this episode, the hosts break down what defines beholders and their many variants, collectively known as Beholder-Kin, and why they're such effective villains across nearly every tier of play. The discussion starts with what makes beholders fundamentally different from other monsters. Their signature eye rays, combined with a central anti-magic eye, mean that fights against beholders rarely follow predictable patterns. Even experienced players are forced to react rather than execute clean plans. The randomness of eye rays creates chaos, but the creature's intelligence means that chaos is applied with intent — the rays may be random, but the targets absolutely are not. From there, the conversation expands into the many variants of Beholder-Kin found throughout D&D. Gazers, spectators, gauths, mind witnesses, beholder zombies, death kisses, and death tyrants all represent different expressions of the same alien biology. Each fills a distinct role, allowing Dungeon Masters to introduce beholder-themed encounters from the earliest levels all the way into high-tier play without losing flavor or threat. This flexibility is one of the reasons beholders remain so enduring in D&D design. Combat tactics play a major role in the episode, especially the importance of running beholders intelligently. A beholder that floats into melee range and trades bite attacks is a beholder being played incorrectly. These creatures thrive on distance, verticality, and environmental control. Their lairs are often carved with disintegration rays, filled with vertical shafts, traps, and contingency plans, and designed to punish creatures that rely on gravity. When played well, a beholder encounter feels less like a fair fight and more like surviving a hostile environment that actively hates you. The episode also dives into beholder lore and ecology, which somehow manages to be both fascinating and deeply unsettling. Earlier editions described grotesque physical reproduction, while modern D&D reframes beholder reproduction as a dream-based phenomenon where nightmares literally manifest new beholders into reality. This almost always results in immediate territorial violence, reinforcing the idea that beholders are incapable of peaceful coexistence — even with themselves. To balance the horror, the hosts also explore notable exceptions in D&D lore. Famous beholders like Xanathar embody tragic paranoia, while figures like Large Luigi — an omniscient beholder tavern owner in Spelljammer — prove that even reality-warping aberrations can choose hospitality over genocide. These examples highlight how beholders can serve not just as villains, but as unforgettable NPCs, information brokers, or narrative wild cards. The episode wraps by touching on player-facing options. While players can't normally play beholders, they can still interact with Beholder-Kin through warlock patrons, summoned spectators, or gazer familiars. Used carefully, these options let players brush up against beholder weirdness without completely breaking the game — though the temptation to do something irresponsible is always there. Key Takeaways Beholder-Kin work because they operate on multiple levels at once. Mechanically, they introduce chaos through randomized effects, but narratively they reward intelligent, ruthless play. A beholder encounter is never just about hit points — it's about positioning, preparation, and survival. These monsters scale exceptionally well across a campaign. From CR ½ gazers to CR 14 death tyrants, Beholder-Kin allow Dungeon Masters to introduce consistent themes without repeating the same fight. Each variant reinforces the core beholder identity while adding new tactical wrinkles. Lair design is not optional when using beholders. Their environments are an extension of their personality: vertical, hostile, and unapologetically unfair. A beholder fought on flat ground is missing half its threat. Finally, beholders remain iconic because they embody the strange heart of D&D. They're terrifying, absurd, overdesigned, and deeply committed to their own misery. Whether used as cosmic horror, dungeon boss, or omniscient bartender, Beholder-Kin remind us that sometimes the most memorable monsters are the ones that don't want to exist — but absolutely refuse to stop. Welcome to the RPGBOT Podcast. If you love Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and tabletop RPGs, this is the podcast for you. Support the show for free: Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast app. It helps new listeners find the best RPG podcast for D&D and Pathfinder players. Level up your experience: Join us on Patreon to unlock ad-free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT Podcast, chat with us and the community on the RPGBOT Discord, and jump into live-streamed RPG podcast recordings. Support while you shop: Use our Amazon affiliate link at https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ and help us keep building tools and guides for the RPG community. Meet the Hosts Tyler Kamstra – Master of mechanics, seeing the Pathfinder action economy like Neo in the Matrix. Randall James – Lore buff and technologist, always ready to debate which Lord of the Rings edition reigns supreme. Ash Ely – Resident cynic, chaos agent, and AI's worst nightmare, bringing pure table-flipping RPG podcast energy. Join the RPGBOT team where fantasy roleplaying meets real strategy, sarcasm, and community chaos. How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale (affiliate link) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

Join us as we continue our @Dungeons & Dragons actual play of a heavily customized Tyranny of Dragons with this session twenty-one! You can buy Tyranny of Dragons here: https://amzn.to/3XJvuND  https://youtube.com/live/nR79V39rDMU Time Stamp: 0:00 Intro 2:28 Chapter 6: Castle Naerytar Continued 2:01:23 Break 2:11:31 Chapter 6: Castle Naerytar Continued 3:56:51 Outro Cast of Characters Elemier of the Thornwood | Kagonesti Elf, 5th Level Paladin of Kiri-Jolith, Oath of Vengeance | Ryan Lucan Silvershaper | Solamnic Human, 5th Level Cleric of Mishakal, Life Domain | Austin K’thriss | Aurak Draconian, 5th Level Fighter, Psi Warrior | Robert/@emtman25 Gunnar Thorvald | Nordmaar Human, 5th Level Barbarian, Path of the Wild Heart | Chris Garrick Bloodmoor | Icewall Human, 5th Level Rogue/Fighter/Ranger | Gregory Seto Hoshiko | Ran-Eli Human, 5th Level Warlock, Great Old One Patron | Gabriel/@PensiveDream Game Setup Last time on Tyranny of Dragons: The heroes turned the tide on the crocodiles and then a shadow fell over the entire river. A massive dragon flew overhead, blocking out the sun momentarily and its sheer presence struck fear into the hearts of nearly everyone present, forcing them to panic and flee. After a bit of time, the heroes came back to their senses, but something changed in the Bakali. They began arguing with Snapjaw, and when they arrived at a river checkpoint, Snapjaw was taken by the Bakali guards. K'thriss and Elemier confronted the guards and tried to convince them to help. Bakali agreed but no one saw Snapjaw again. THey arrived at the Citadel of Karoc-Tor to find a massive encampment outside its walls. On one side the Bullywugs and on the other Bakali. The cult seems to be running things but the grunt work is completed by these two groups. With the appearance of a dragon, it has set everyone on edge. They send word back to Leosin Erlanthar, their Legion of Steele Akroatis or scout captain, then head toward the long houses. As Elemier tries to understand who is in charge of the Citadel when Rezmir is absent, the Bakali seem to ignore the question. There seems to be something off. They are led into the Citadel by Jamna and Garrith appearing as Bakali and are met inside by guards who show them to a room for recruits. After clearing it out they awoke cultists who were killed. In the morning the party began exploring the south western tower they were in, but Jamna went missing… About Tyranny of Dragons The Return of Tiamat An epic draconic adventure for levels 1-15 The forces of Tiamat, Queen of Evil Dragons, bring war to the Forgotten Realms. Led by the sinister Cult of the Dragon, an army of dragons and foul villains wage a merciless campaign to unleash their draconic god upon the world. Opposing them is a desperate alliance including the heroic Harpers and treacherous Zhentarim. This fragile coalition needs heroes to unite them and find ways to resist the draconic threat. Do you have the courage to stand against the Cult of the Dragon and the threat of Tiamat’s immortal tyranny? Jump Into Play with D&D Beyond Purchasing a digital copy of this book unlocks it for use in the D&D BEYOND compendium and toolset. D&D BEYOND is the official digital toolset for DUNGEONS & DRAGONS. Create characters in minutes, play directly on your character sheets with digital dice, and prep less and play more with Dungeon Master tools like the Encounter Builder and Combat Tracker. Unlock Maps, D&D BEYOND’s virtual tabletop, with a Master Tier subscription. Host game sessions on dozens of official maps, or make your own and use our player and monster tokens to take your gaming to the next level! New features: Adds 31 tyrannical monsters to use in the Encounter Builder to create & run organized battles for your party Wield 13 new magical items against the forces of Tiamat with a click of your character sheet A good beginner adventure for Dungeon Masters including rollable tables, detailed maps, and unique NPCs

Welcome to part nineteen of my Gaming AD&D: Dungeon Masters Guide Reading series where I rediscover Advanced Dungeons & Dragons with a live audience by reading the core rules. In this episode I will continue reading aloud the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Masters Guide by Gary Gygax, released in August 1979. Buy the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Masters Guide now: https://www.dmsguild.com/en/product/17004/dungeon-master-s-guide-1e?affiliate_id=50797  https://youtube.com/live/xXRnFCQ-fTw Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 1:00 Appendix C: Random Monster Encounters Continued 44:37 Appendix D: Random Generation of Creatures from the Lower Planes 50:47 Appendix E: Alphabetical Recapitulation of Monsters 52:05 Appendix F: Gambling 57:31 Appendix G: Traps 58:10 Appendix H: Tricks 1:00:08 Outro About the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Masters Guide The 1st Edition Dungeon Master’s Guide is Back! Dungeon Masters everywhere, rejoice! Too long have you had to suffer along with crucial charts and tables spread through many works. Too long have you had to use makeshift references trying to solve the problem. You now have a complete compilation of the most valuable material for your refereeing, the Dungeon Master’s Guide. Herein you will find: Combat Matrices Encounter Tables Monster Attacks Alphabetically Listed Treasure and Magic Tables and Descriptions Gem Values by Type Random Wilderness Terrain Generation Random Dungeon Generation Suggestions on Game Mastering And a Whole Lot More!  This excellent tome is a must for every Dungeon Master!

Improvisation is one of the most intimidating skills for new Game Masters. What happens when players ignore your prep, ask unexpected questions, or make choices you didn't plan for? In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, Brian breaks down how improvisation actually works for GMs, why it feels difficult at first, and how new Dungeon Masters can think on their feet without panic or railroading. This episode focuses on simple tools, practical frameworks, and real examples to help beginner GMs stay confident when sessions don't go according to plan. Topics Covered: Why improvisation feels scary for new GMs What improvisation really is (and isn't) How to respond logically to unexpected player choices Simple improv tools every GM can use How to keep the game moving without overthinking Perfect for new Game Masters running their first campaigns. Support the Podcast by subscribing and checking out this link

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: If you blink you'll miss it! Inspiration: 244: Blink Dogs Exercise: Don't Even Blink Supplement: Night Hunters Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

You're listening to Bardtenders! In this episode of "The Mixing Glass", Mark McDonough talks about building local gaming communities, indie games, and the importance of inclusivity and creating safe spaces while playing tabletop games. ------------Mark McDonough has been playing tabletop role-playing games since the late 1980's.  While he has played Dungeons & Dragons throughout the years, he also has a fondess for playing and a variety of other games including indie games!In 2020, Mark started organizing and running bi-weekly games of Dungeons & Dragons in cooperation with Babe, Games and Geeks and created the group Duval Dice and Dungeons. Duval Dice and Dungeons is a group that focuses on providing a safe spaces and experiences for women and LGBTQ+  where they play Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role-playing games.  Their group officially started in October 2020 (during the height of the pandemic) at Lemonstreet Brewing Co. Over the last 5 years, they have built a community of players and Dungeon Masters. ----------Don't miss out on any of the action!  Head to www.bardtender.com to stay up to date with all of the Bardtender content, find resources for mental and physical well-being, get access to education materials, and check out what all of our bards are up to!Support the show

Welcome to the RPGBOT.Podcast, where tonight we bravely attempt to eat the entire Dungeons & Dragons campaign setting menu in one sitting. No tie-ins, no supplements, no "this was technically in Dragon Magazine once" nonsense: just the official D&D settings, served tasting-menu style. From post-apocalyptic deserts where magic killed the planet, to punk fantasy with robot soldiers, to the setting so generic it's basically carbonated water, we're ranking, roasting, and reminiscing about the worlds that shaped tabletop roleplaying games. Grab your character sheet, loosen your belt, and prepare for Forgotten Realms Coke vs Greyhawk Pepsi discourse. Show Notes In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we review the official Dungeons & Dragons campaign settings created by Wizards of the Coast (excluding licensed tie-ins and sub-settings) to help players and Dungeon Masters understand what makes each world distinct. Rather than deep dives, this episode delivers a high-level overview of each D&D setting's tone, themes, and playstyle, helping listeners decide which campaign setting best fits their table. Campaign Settings Covered Birthright – A kingdom-management focused D&D setting where divine bloodlines grant rulers supernatural authority. Ideal for players who want politics, rulership, and domain-level play alongside traditional adventuring. Dark Sun – A grimdark, post-apocalyptic fantasy setting defined by ecological collapse, psionics, scarce resources, and moral ambiguity. One of D&D's darkest campaign settings. Dragonlance – Epic fantasy rooted in legendary novels, fallen gods, returning dragons, and mythic heroism. A classic D&D setting built around narrative arcs and world-shaking events. Eberron – A pulp fantasy and dungeon-punk setting where magic functions as technology. Airships, warforged, political intrigue, and post-war fallout define this highly popular D&D world. Forgotten Realms – The default D&D campaign setting for 5e. High-magic, high-fantasy, dense lore, iconic characters, and flexible adventure design make it the most widely recognized setting. Greyhawk – The original published D&D setting, emphasizing sword-and-sorcery, moral ambiguity, and classic fantasy roots tied to iconic spells and characters. Mystara – A simplified fantasy setting originally designed for Basic D&D, featuring lighter tone, fewer races, and a more approachable style for new or younger players. Nentir Vale – A minimalist fourth-edition setting designed as a flexible framework rather than a fully realized world—perfect for Dungeon Masters who prefer homebrew. Planescape – A multiversal setting centered on Sigil, the City of Doors. Philosophical factions, planar travel, cosmic weirdness, and reality-bending concepts define this fan-favorite. Ravenloft – Gothic horror fantasy featuring cursed domains, tragic villains, and psychological dread. A setting focused on atmosphere, consequences, and survival. Spelljammer – Space fantasy for D&D, blending swashbuckling adventure with crystal spheres, astral travel, and magical ships sailing between worlds. Key Takeaways Not all D&D campaign settings are designed for the same playstyle—some emphasize politics, others horror, survival, or pulp action. Forgotten Realms works as the most flexible and accessible default setting, especially for new players. Eberron stands out for its coherent worldbuilding and logical use of magic as technology. Dark Sun and Ravenloft require player buy-in due to their heavy themes and darker tone. Planescape offers unmatched freedom and philosophical depth but demands strong DM preparation. Nentir Vale exists primarily as a DM toolkit rather than a narrative world. Older settings like Greyhawk, Dragonlance, and Mystara remain relevant for groups seeking classic fantasy vibes or nostalgia-driven campaigns. Dungeon Masters should choose a setting that reinforces—not fights—the story they want to tell. Welcome to the RPGBOT Podcast. If you love Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and tabletop RPGs, this is the podcast for you. Support the show for free: Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast app. It helps new listeners find the best RPG podcast for D&D and Pathfinder players. Level up your experience: Join us on Patreon to unlock ad-free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT Podcast, chat with us and the community on the RPGBOT Discord, and jump into live-streamed RPG podcast recordings. Support while you shop: Use our Amazon affiliate link at https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ and help us keep building tools and guides for the RPG community. Meet the Hosts Tyler Kamstra – Master of mechanics, seeing the Pathfinder action economy like Neo in the Matrix. Randall James – Lore buff and technologist, always ready to debate which Lord of the Rings edition reigns supreme. Ash Ely – Resident cynic, chaos agent, and AI's worst nightmare, bringing pure table-flipping RPG podcast energy. Join the RPGBOT team where fantasy roleplaying meets real strategy, sarcasm, and community chaos. How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale (affiliate link) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: We dive into homebrew potions and talk AI for good measure Inspiration: Homebrewed Potion Ideas Exercise: Have A Potion On Me Supplement: Worldsmith.io Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

Hearken, O Cabalist, and attend these words drawn from dust-laden halls and candlelit vaults of memory. Welcome to the first chronicle of the reborn Dungeon Master's Ludus. On this day, the Lords of the Dungeon unseal the ancient tomes of wisdom, seeking to reveal the true art of fellowship between Game Master and players alike. Learn ways to forge adventuring companies bound by unity, tempered by trust, strengthened through cooperation, and guided by a shared yearning for the most glorious game that may be played. Huzzah!

Is your campaign's "big bad" just evil, or is there a hero beneath the monster? This episode dives into the age-old debate for Dungeon Masters: how important is a sympathetic backstory for a villain, and whether you should include complex antagonists in your game   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #tabletop #roleplaying #villains Resources: Episode 180 - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-180-let-villains-be-villains/  Episode 235 - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-235-the-why-of-villains/  Episode 253 - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-253-recurring-villains/  Thor Skywalker - Why does everyone seem to love “Sympathetic Villains” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO2dBY8DPho  Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social

Keith Ammann is an ENNIE Award–winning writer based in Chicago. He's the author of several books of advice for fifth edition Dungeons & Dragons players, including The Monsters Know What They're Doing: Combat Tactics for Dungeon Masters, MOAR! Monsters Know What They're Doing, How to Defend Your Lair, and most recently Making Enemies: Monster Design Inspiration for Tabletop Roleplaying Games, as well as the blog The Monsters Know What They're Doing. He's been a role-playing gamer and game master for more than thirty years. He likes to play outwardly abrasive helpers, out-of-their-element helpers, and genuinely nice, helpful helpers. Mostly, though, he plays non-player characters. And monsters. Please check out these relevant links: Making Enemies: Monster Design Inspiration for Tabletop Roleplaying Games Spy & Owl The Monsters Know What They're Doing (blog) Welcome to Dice in Mind, a podcast hosted by Bradley Browne and Jason Kaufman to explore the intersection of life, games, science, music, philosophy, and creativity through interviews with leading creatives. All are welcome in this space. Royalty-free music "Night Jazz Beats" courtesy of flybirdaudio.

This one is just for the Dungeon Masters! Rob and Matt review the new gazetteer and/or campaign book for running games in the Forgotten Realms! Forgotten Realms: Adventures in Faerûn Music: Pac Div - Roll the Dice Follow Dungeon Master of None on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/dmofnone.bsky.social   Join our Patreon for bonus episodes: https://www.patreon.com/DungeonMasterOfNone   Join the DMofNone Discord!

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: We dive deep into curses and deep into the mind of a ruby dragon! Inspiration: Curses For Players Exercise: Curse You! Supplement: Enter Neurochateau Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: We build a random loot table! Inspiration: Rewarding Your PCs Exercise: The Reward Is The Reward Lifting Partner: Jeff Stevens Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com

Greetings and salutations, noble travelers! Gather ye close and lend thine ears. Lord Bender doth regale us with tales of his grand Spelljammer campaign and the valorous exploits of his gallant Giff sailor. Thereafter, we entertain inquiries from our loyal listeners pondering such matters as what Dungeon Masters desire most from their adventurers, whether our hearts favor the grand houses of mass-market tomes or the humble artistry of indie works, and how much tomfoolery may be endured before patience wears thin. Enjoy the merriment of the hour!

Welcome back to DM-Nastics - the gym for Dungeon Masters to work out their minds! Content: We talk about some consumables that are absolutely worth the gold! Inspiration: Five Consumables That Are Worth the Gold Exercise: Totally Worth It! Light Bulb: AuroraAthenaeum Holy Water Twitter: @DMs_Block DM Neal's @joatmoniac DM Celeste's @cconowitch BlueSky: @dmsblock.bsky.social Discord: https://bit.ly/DMBanter Intro/Outro provided by: @bomBARDedcast Check them out at bombardedcast.com