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Lo, from the stagnant mire there arose a croak most dreadful, heralding the advent of creatures born of chaos and slime. In this remastered Spooktober hour from 2023, we unmask the Slaad—horrible monsters of Dungeons & Dragons whose laughter curdles into terror. Hark, dear listeners, and let the tolling of the midnight bell stir your marrow— for once more the veil thins, and once more the chill breath of Spooktober draws near. The year wanes, the light falters, and in the gathering gloom we bid you prepare: the 2025 season of RPGBOT.Podcast's Spooktober is nearly upon us. Expect not merely tales of monsters, but phantasms of horror and mirth entwined; expect not idle chatter, but whispers of Dungeons and Dragons and tabletop RPG horrors, woven with the laughter of the damned and the counsel of the grave. Steel your heart, sharpen your dice, and ready your soul for the chaos to come— for in the creeping hours of October, we shall descend together once more into that grotesque carnival of terror and delight… and the monsters shall be waiting. Show Notes In this mournful season of Spooktober, the RPGBOT.Podcast hosts descend into the abyss to reveal the Slaad, one of the most horrible monsters in tabletop RPGs. From the dim vaults of Dungeons and Dragons lore and the infernal margins of the Pathfinder RPG, these chaos beasts emerge—creatures neither wholly comic nor wholly terrifying, but abominations caught between laughter and despair. The discussion charts the evolution of the Slaad lore in Dungeons and Dragons, tracing their spawn from earlier editions through to the present, while casting their warped shadows upon Pathfinder 2e Slaad monster analysis. Their essence is chaotic neutral vs. chaotic evil monsters in RPGs, shifting masks of unpredictability, forever croaking of corruption and madness. These horror monsters serve not only as combatants, but as symbols: infestation, decay, and the slow erosion of body and spirit. To Dungeon Masters yearning for the macabre, the hosts provide counsel on roleplaying tips for using Slaad in campaigns—how to balance absurdity with terror, how to weave dread into encounters, how to stage the crawling metamorphoses of flesh that birth new horrors. This is no idle musing, but a true Spooktober monster deep dive podcast, a lantern held aloft in the darkness for all who dare run horror themed creatures for D&D adventures. RPGBOT.Podcast Season 2 Episode 1 – Variant Rules RPGBOT.Podcast Season 2 Episode 2 – The Move Toward Inclusion in Tabletop Gaming Key Takeaways The Slaad are chaos incarnate, their essence shifting between chaotic neutral vs. chaotic evil monsters in RPGs. Their mark is body-horror most grotesque: infestation, spawning, and vile metamorphosis. They are the perfect choice for Spooktober monster deep dive podcasts and horror themed creatures for D&D adventures. The hosts trace Slaad lore in Dungeons and Dragons and expand into Pathfinder RPG differences. Practical roleplaying tips for using Slaad in campaigns show how to balance comedy with grotesque menace. The episode offers guidance on how to run Slaad encounters in TTRPGs, ensuring dread without monotony. These creatures become living metaphors: corruption, chaos, and despair, bound in the grotesque tapestry of fantasy lore. When placed in a campaign, the Slaad engrave themselves in memory, a croaking echo in the dark—an eternal reminder that in roleplaying games, the most horrible monsters linger long after dice have stilled. Now Go forth, dear traveler, and whisper in trembling tones to those you hold dear: Spooktober is coming. Let not your comrades remain unprepared for the horrors and laughter that await.Bid them gather round the flickering lantern, bid them tune their ears to the RPGBOT.Podcast, that together you may descend into the abyss of dice and dread. For what is terror, if not shared? What is laughter in the dark, if not echoed by many? Spread the word, spread the warning...tell your friends, your table, your fellowship: the season of fright returns, and none shall escape its shadow. 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 for our 50th episode! In this episode, Mark and Ben reflect on the lessons and highlights of the Tabletop Tune Up podcast, and look ahead to new topics and games to be covered in upcoming episodes. If you're a new listener, you'll get a sense of what our GMing podcast is about, and if you're a longtime listener, we hope you'll enjoy our reflections on some of the episodes we've created for you. Here's to another 50!
If you wish to live, choose only Retro Encounter!On this week's episode of Retro Encounter, we finally finish Drakengard. We cry, we wail. Oh wait, that's the characters. Just how messed up are the additional endings? Can anyone ever truly be happy? Do rhythm games belong in an RPG? Listen in to find out!Featuring: Zach Wilkerson, Aleks Franiczek, Ben Love, Steph Sybydlo; Edited by Paul DennisOpening and ending music by Miles MorkriGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: retro@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancom
In this wandering dissection of the 2025 Dungeons & Dragons Starter Set, the hosts circle through memory and mechanics, weighing cardboard against imagination, and finding, amid the tokens and rules, not a doorway into wonder but the echo of all the starter sets that came before, fuller, deeper, better. Starter Set: Heroes of the Borderlands (affiliate link) Randall has written Melancon, a novella that lingers like the dusk on a Southern porch, where memory and shadow wrestle in the same long sentence; you will read it in print upon Amazon, or hear it carried on Ash's voice in the audiobook, the cadence of the tale winding as though the story itself remembered you before you found it. Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale (affiliate link) Show Notes There is a starter set, and though the box is new, the echoes within are old, older than dice or leveling mechanics, older than the crafting of character sheets and the fragile permanence of tokens, and it bears the mark of Wizards of the Coast as if that brand were a lineage stretching back to the dim histories of Dungeons and Dragons, and we, who have seen the 2024 starter set, the 2014, the 1983, and all the ones before that, sit and hold this one in our hands and feel the weight of it, and the hollowness, too. The hosts circle round like storytellers on a porch, voices interwoven, sometimes bantering, sometimes harsh in judgment, and they speak of game mechanics, of adventure design, of character creation, and of the difference between a board game's bones and the living marrow of a tabletop RPG. And as they speak, one sees the ghost of better boxes, more cohesive adventure modules, more patient stories. There is praise for the components—tokens and maps, the paper like a relic of promises—but criticism too, for what is an adventure review if not an elegy for what might have been? The adventure structure is straight as an arrow and as empty, the plot like a house without rooms, and though it may shelter the new player, it does not nourish them. And so the tale winds: the physical versus digital experience, the cruel disappointment of shallow design, the lingering hope that future offerings may redeem this one. It is the story of a set that wanted to be Dungeons & Dragons, but settled, instead, for something less. Key Takeaways The 2025 D&D Starter Set carries the name but not the soul of its predecessors; the history of D&D starter sets looms over it like a shadow. Its adventure modules are linear and lack the depth that breathes life into role-playing games. Though the physical components—tokens, sheets, crafted bits of board-game echo—serve their purpose, they cannot mask the thinness of the adventure design. Character creation and leveling mechanics receive mention but not reverence; they are steps without dance. The box is priced like a promise (“a $50 product”) but delivers less than it should. The hosts weigh the player experience and declare that better paths exist for those beginning their journey into Dungeons and Dragons. In comparing starter sets, the verdict is clear: this one feels less like a gateway into wonder and more like a door that does not open all the way. And so if you have followed us through this wandering road of tokens and rules and promises unkept, then carry it further: share this podcast with the ones at your own table, let them hear our voices as you have, and rate and review us upon the great digital ledgers—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, all the places where stories are measured not in pages but in stars and numbers—so that others, lost or searching, may stumble into this circle of talk and stay a while. 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
Hearken, ye Cabalists! Gather round, for this day the Lords convene in discourse. They speak first of Jamie and AC's newest chronicle of dread and mystery, wrought in the Call of Cthulhu. Thereafter, a query from a faithful listener shall be pondered, touching upon the use of relics and tokens within the gaming hall. Lastly, the Roundtable shall be set, where wisdom is shared on the keeping of momentum and the weariness that oft befalls the Game Master. Raise thy voices in mirth! Huzzah!
Send us a textThis Week: Legacy DLC and the Mark of the Assassin DLC Next Week: Act III - Opening Quests: Speak to Fenris, Alone, Faith, Champions and Captains, A Talking To, Isabela's Regret, The Storm and What Came Before It, Check on Anders, Justice, Mine Massacre, Herbalist's Tasks, A Murder of Crows, Visit Gamlen, Gamlen's Greatest Treasure, Act III Side Quests (complete as you find them)Dragon Age 2 Schedule: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11hISTe_UcimK0p5X0DqsPtSnQN-A4-9cETbz1P6VKGM/edit?usp=sharingGame Guide by Greg Boccia aka noz3r0 https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/pc/988968-dragon-age-ii/faqs/61965Support the showContact: http://linktr.ee/squelchcast Support the show on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/c/Squelch or https://www.twitch.tv/dan0play Join our Discord at https://discord.gg/HwPPtX627k
Our heroes are still making their way to Figplott's magic school! Butthole (Ryan LaPlante, @theryanlaplante) immediately trusted the random stranger they met in the woods, Juniper (Laura Hamstra, @lauraehamstra) made sure Arcturus didn't set up camp in the middle of the stream, and Quinny (Tyler Hewitt, @Tyler_Hewitt) learned more about the conman and Mordrax Shadeleaf around the fire! But what will discover when they arrive at the school?! Also featuring our awesome DM Tom McGee (@mcgeetd).Enjoying Dumb-Dumbs & Dragons?- Consider supporting the show for as little as $1 a month to get BTS fun, an ad-free feed, and even add your own character to the podcast! (https://dumbdumbdice.com/join)- Buy merch on our website (https://dumbdumbdice.com/)- Follow us on social media: @dumbdumbdice- Watch our video episodes on YouTube (https://youtube.com/@dumbdumbdice) Artwork by the brilliant Del Borovic- Website & Portfolio (https://delborovic.com/), @deltastic on socialsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're doing a Random Book Club for the brand-new tome from Bitmap Books: 50 Indie Games that Changed the World.Over the last 20 years, the indie game scene has become just as important as the AAA industry, with games like Silksong showing sales numbers that many big devs would kill for! There are so many brilliant indies out there, such as Return of the Obra Dinn, Coffee Talk, and Hades, but which ones had the biggest impact on both the video game industry and the world?50 Indie Games that Changed the World aims to answer that very question! Do Jono, Hilary, and Mike agree with all of its choices? Probably not, but that's the joy of chatting about lists on the internet!Featuring: Jono Logan, Hilary Andreff, Mike Salbato; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomInstagram: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:50 Indie Games that Changed the WorldBitmap BooksRandom Encounter 218 – What is a JRPG? A Delightful Little Pile of Adventure!Random Encounter 247 – Random Book Club – The Art of Point-and-Click Adventure GamesRandom Encounter 305 – Random Book Club – Legends of Localization Book 3: UndertaleRandom Encounter 252 – Random Book Club – Fight, Magic, Items80 Days ReviewStardew Valley ReviewRogue Legacy ReviewHades ReviewCoffee Talk ReviewReturn of the Obra Dinn ReviewHades: Developing Hell Noclip YouTube Documentary
The RPGBOT crew brave technical glitches, angry chasm fiends, and their own questionable tactics in the Stormlight Archive TTRPG—somehow surviving long enough to bond a Shardblade and argue about the rules. Want to roll dice with Ash Ely? You can! Ash is running games right now on StartPlaying.games — sign up to join his tables and bring your own chaos straight to the adventure. Show Notes What happens when a group of seasoned RPG players and podcasters try to explore the Stormlight Archive TTRPG gameplay while also fighting their greatest nemesis: technical difficulties? Chaos, laughter, and some surprisingly good strategy. In this episode, the RPGBOT crew dive into Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere RPG session and tackle everything from collaborative character creation to survival strategies in tabletop campaigns. Along the way, they explore the chasms of Roshar, narrowly avoid becoming lunch for a chasm fiend, and stumble their way into a Shardblade bonding that changes the party forever. This is not just a deep dive into fantasy adventure game mechanics and Cosmere lore, it's also a reminder that sometimes the biggest boss fight is your own internet connection. Expect plenty of table banter, a mix of strategy and combat in Stormlight Archive RPG, and the occasional rules lawyer moment when someone tries to figure out exactly how healing and recovery in RPG combat works mid-fight. If you've ever wanted to know how storytelling through Cosmere role-playing feels when the stakes are survival, or if you just enjoy hearing gamers yell “We did it!” after almost dying in the chasms, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways Technical difficulties are the real BBEG – even the most prepared podcasters get crit-hit by audio gremlins. Collaborative character creation isn't just fun; it sets up all the chaos and heroics that follow. Lore-driven gameplay in fantasy RPGs adds immersion and weight—knowing the world changes how you play it. Chasm fiend encounters in tabletop RPGs are terrifying, hilarious, and an excellent way to test teamwork. Combat in Stormlight Archive RPG is as much about strategy as it is about rolling well. Survival strategies in tabletop campaigns matter—sometimes “run away” is the best spell. Healing and recovery in RPG combat are clutch; without them, the only thing you're bonding with is the afterlife. Storytelling through Cosmere role-playing proves why Sanderson's worlds are so good for the tabletop. Shardblade bonding in role-playing games changes character dynamics—and makes players feel way cooler than they deserve. The unpredictability of RPGs keeps every session fresh, funny, and full of unexpected discoveries. Like what you heard? Support the show by sharing this episode with your fellow adventurers, leave us a review on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to check out more RPG, Dungeons and Dragons, and Cosmere TTRPG content at RPGBOT.net. 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 RPGBOT crew brave technical glitches, angry chasm fiends, and their own questionable tactics in the Stormlight Archive TTRPG—somehow surviving long enough to bond a Shardblade and argue about the rules. Want to roll dice with Ash Ely? You can! Ash is running games right now on StartPlaying.games — sign up to join his tables and bring your own chaos straight to the adventure. Show Notes What happens when a group of seasoned RPG players and podcasters try to explore the Stormlight Archive TTRPG gameplay while also fighting their greatest nemesis: technical difficulties? Chaos, laughter, and some surprisingly good strategy. In this episode, the RPGBOT crew dive into Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere RPG session and tackle everything from collaborative character creation to survival strategies in tabletop campaigns. Along the way, they explore the chasms of Roshar, narrowly avoid becoming lunch for a chasm fiend, and stumble their way into a Shardblade bonding that changes the party forever. This is not just a deep dive into fantasy adventure game mechanics and Cosmere lore, it's also a reminder that sometimes the biggest boss fight is your own internet connection. Expect plenty of table banter, a mix of strategy and combat in Stormlight Archive RPG, and the occasional rules lawyer moment when someone tries to figure out exactly how healing and recovery in RPG combat works mid-fight. If you've ever wanted to know how storytelling through Cosmere role-playing feels when the stakes are survival, or if you just enjoy hearing gamers yell “We did it!” after almost dying in the chasms, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways Technical difficulties are the real BBEG – even the most prepared podcasters get crit-hit by audio gremlins. Collaborative character creation isn't just fun; it sets up all the chaos and heroics that follow. Lore-driven gameplay in fantasy RPGs adds immersion and weight—knowing the world changes how you play it. Chasm fiend encounters in tabletop RPGs are terrifying, hilarious, and an excellent way to test teamwork. Combat in Stormlight Archive RPG is as much about strategy as it is about rolling well. Survival strategies in tabletop campaigns matter—sometimes “run away” is the best spell. Healing and recovery in RPG combat are clutch; without them, the only thing you're bonding with is the afterlife. Storytelling through Cosmere role-playing proves why Sanderson's worlds are so good for the tabletop. Shardblade bonding in role-playing games changes character dynamics—and makes players feel way cooler than they deserve. The unpredictability of RPGs keeps every session fresh, funny, and full of unexpected discoveries. Like what you heard? Support the show by sharing this episode with your fellow adventurers, leave us a review on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to check out more RPG, Dungeons and Dragons, and Cosmere TTRPG content at RPGBOT.net. 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
Get in touch with us!What makes a tabletop RPG truly perfect? Not just popular or commercially successful, but flawlessly designed where every element fits together so seamlessly you can't imagine it any other way? Greg Stafford's King Arthur Pendragon stands as one of those rare masterpieces – a game that transcended traditional RPG design to create something genuinely literary and transformative.Ready to experience the holy grail of RPGs? Join us as we explore how this revolutionary game changed what roleplaying could achieve and why, decades later, it remains utterly transformative for those who discover it.Contact us at:EMAIL: roll.to.save.pod@gmail.comFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rolltosavepodWEBSITE: https://rolltosave.blogHOSTS: Iain Wilson, Steve McGarrity, Jason DowneyBACKGROUND MUSIC: David Renada (Find him at: davidrendamusic@gmail.com or on his web page).TITLE, BREAK & CLOSEOUT MUSIC: Xylo-Ziko (Find them on their web page).
Transcript
Welcome, Cabalists, to another Wednesday packed with games and shenanigans with the Founders! Today we dive into Raising Robots, Here Lies, Flock Together, Everdell Silverfrost, Hot Streak, and feature Jamey Stegmaier's newest creation, Vantage! Then, after Steve steps in to fill Tony T's big shoes for the news segment, we tackle a couple of listener questions including what to do when you know you're going to lose, and which games we'd choose to guarantee victory over our fellow Founders. Raising Robots: 00:05:48, Here Lies: 00:14:22, Flock Together: 00:24:12, Everdell Silverfrost: 00:39:40, Hot Streak: 00:51:16, Vantage: 01:06:59, News with Stevie S: 01:44:33, Short Topic Extravaganza: 02:36:16. Check out our sponsors Restoration Games at https://restorationgames.com/. Game Toppers at https://www.gametoppersllc.com/. And Game Night Picks at http://gamenightpicks.com/cabal.
Send us a textThis Week: Act II Side Quests, All That Remains, The Captain's Condolences, To Catch a Thief (optional), and Demands of the QunNext Week: Legacy DLC and the Mark of the Assassin DLC Dragon Age 2 Schedule: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11hISTe_UcimK0p5X0DqsPtSnQN-A4-9cETbz1P6VKGM/edit?usp=sharingGame Guide by Greg Boccia aka noz3r0 https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/pc/988968-dragon-age-ii/faqs/61965Support the showContact: http://linktr.ee/squelchcast Support the show on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/c/Squelch or https://www.twitch.tv/dan0play Join our Discord at https://discord.gg/HwPPtX627k
We last celebrated the beloved Wild Arms series in 2022's episode 93, where we paired its Western stylings with Shadow Hearts, in honor of the then-new Armed Fantasia/Penny Blood Kickstarter. Now, almost exactly three years later, we are talking exclusively about Wild Arms. This series of RPGs from Media.Vision and Sony featured a distinctive Wild West flair, with exciting soundtracks to boot.While there sadly have been no new games in the series since 2007's Wild Arms XF (unless you count Wild Arms: Million Memories and its less-than-two-year mobile game lifespan, which we aren't!), we still have five main games, a remake, and a tactical spinoff packed with memorable music, almost all of which feature on today's show. Saddle up pal, it's Wild ARrms!Featuring: Mike Salbato, Audra Bowling, Matt Wardell, Wes Iliff; Edited by Mike SalbatoLinks for this episodeAndrew W.K. - Gundam Rock (YouTube)TracklistThe Warmth of a Desert Morning Stirs My Heart0:13:35 - A Person's Warmth (Michiko Naruke) - Wild Arms 30:16:33 - The Shaman Princess' Feelings (Michiko Naruke) - Wild ARMsThe Remnants of Determined Relaxation0:33:52 - A Town Where the West Wind Blows (Michiko Naruke) - Wild ARMs 2 0:34:55 - Courage (Michiko Naruke) - Wild Arms Alter Code: FThe Whistle of Memory - Blazing Suns0:56:02 - Migratory Birds-Scoundrels (Michiko Naruke) - Wild Arms 30:59:35 - When the Heart Ignites (Noriyasu Agematsu) - Wild Arms 5A Voice in the Desert Calls to Me1:21:05 - as time goes by ~We Won't Forget~ (Michiko Naruke, vocals by Franki Love) - Wild Arms 41:25:05 - Because You Are Here Looking Up at the Sky (Opening Theme) (Michiko Naruke, vocals by Kaori Aso) - Wild Arms 41:44:14 - Wes' Bonus Track!Album links for places to buy, stream, and more are available in our post on RPGFan.Get in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: music@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancom
Matthew needles Dave in this episode, plus we talk about Coriolis licenses, Tabletop Scotland, Windheim and NPC for Tales of the Old West00.00.40: Introductions00.03.26: World of Gaming - Coriolis the Great Dark 3rd party license released; TableTop Scotland approaches (next weekend!); Windheim Falling the second part of the Horn of Dawn, is on Kickstarter00.24.48: Essay and Discussion: Non-player characters in Tales of the Old West01.06.00: Next time and Goodbye Effekt is brought to you by Effekt Publishing. Music is by Stars in a Black Sea, used with kind permission of Free League Publishing.Like what we do?Sign up for updates on Tales of the Old West via our new website and download Tales of the Old West QuickDraw available for free on DriveThru. The core rules are now available on DriveThru too.Put our brand on your face! (and elsewhere)Buy pdfs via our DriveThru Affiliate linkLeave a review on iTunes or PodchaserFind our Actual Play recordings on effektap ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Wise men choose Retro Encounter before war.In this week's episode of Retro Encounter, we are in pain. Wait, I mean we're playing Yoko Taro's first directorial effort: Drakengard. We discuss the first ending, the (purposely?) frustrating gameplay, all while trying to avoid going insane. Can a game that's not fun be good? Listen in to find out!Featuring: Zach Wilkerson, Aleks Franiczek, Ben Love, Steph Sybybldo; Edited by Paul DennisOpening and ending music by Miles MorkriGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: retro@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancom
Get in touch with us!Join us as we crack open Cubicle 7's supplement for the Enemy Within campaign, The Enemy in Shadows Companion - the essential guide to adventuring in the Reikland (allegedly).Is this a storehouse of useful added extras, or something that trades on nostalgia for nostalgia's sake?Listen along and find out...Contact us at:EMAIL: roll.to.save.pod@gmail.comFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rolltosavepodWEBSITE: https://rolltosave.blogHOSTS: Iain Wilson, Steve McGarrity, Jason DowneyBACKGROUND MUSIC: David Renada (Find him at: davidrendamusic@gmail.com or on his web page).TITLE, BREAK & CLOSEOUT MUSIC: Xylo-Ziko (Find them on their web page).
In Express episode 111, Don, Tony, and Jamie are inspired by a listener question and discuss patterns and fads in game design and try and answer the question - is there truly anything original out there?
Send us a textThis Week: Blackpowder Courtesy, Dissent, Mirror Image, Back from Sundermount, An Update, Family Matter, The Long Road, and Offered and LostNext Week: Act II Side Quests, All That Remains, The Captain's Condolences, To Catch a Thief (optional), and Demands of the QunDragon Age 2 Schedule: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11hISTe_UcimK0p5X0DqsPtSnQN-A4-9cETbz1P6VKGM/edit?usp=sharingGame Guide by Greg Boccia aka noz3r0 https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/pc/988968-dragon-age-ii/faqs/61965Support the showContact: http://linktr.ee/squelchcast Support the show on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/c/Squelch or https://www.twitch.tv/dan0play Join our Discord at https://discord.gg/HwPPtX627k
This week it's another RPG review of the Broken Compass and Outgunned games from Two Little Mice. If you're someone who left every great action movie thinking "I want to play that RPG!" then this game is probably for you. Broken Compass and its refined descendent, Outgunned, are cinematic action games that focus on fast-paced, cinematic action. The mechanics are simple, which means they're fast, and the less you try to "win" as opposed to playing out a great cinematic scene, the more fun you'll have. We had a lot of fun with this game and we recommend giving it a try.
Sponsored by the Nuclear Boy Scout, a very strange congruence of circumstances that made this weird scenario possible We hope you have enjoyed our game of Ashes Without Number: A Post Nuclear Role Playing Game. In this episode we discuss the thoughts we have after playing the system over the last few weeks, as well as delve deep into a strange conversation about the Nuclear Boy Scout that popped up around AWN's crafting system.
On this week's Random Encounter, let's head to the bazaar and see what the RPGFan stall has in stock!First up, Niki is here to chat about Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar. Harvest Moon DS: Grand Bazaar was a beloved entry in this long-running series on the Nintendo DS. Does this remake (with some updated branding) live up to the memories of the original?Then, Neal is here to share his thoughts about Quartet, a new retro-style JRPG from the developer of Shadows of Adam. While it looks like a pretty standard SNES JRPG on the surface, it is the mature storytelling and more modern mechanics that set it apart. If you miss the days of the SNES, this might be an RPG you'll want to check out!And finally, the entire panel shares what they are most excited about that was announced at Gamescom 2025!Featuring: Jono Logan, Neal Chandran, and Niki Fakhoori; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar ReviewHarvest Moon DS: Grand Bazaar ReviewQuartet ReviewShadows of Adam Review
Get in touch with us!The dark minions may have tried to sabotage our first episode, but we're back with a deep dive into the fascinating world of Dark Conspiracy, GDW's dystopian monster-hunting RPG from 1991.Dark Conspiracy occupies a unique place in roleplaying history – a game that bridges old-school wargaming crunch with forward-thinking character development systems. We explore how this game, with its eerily prescient setting of corporate overreach and societal collapse, created some of the most detailed and mismatched parties in gaming. Where else could you play a heavily-armed scooby gang featuring a Navy SEAL, a paramedic, and a homeless guy with sunglasses?The game's mechanical complexity is both its blessing and curse. We marvel at the obsessive detail – magazine tracking sheets for individual bullets, eight pages of space travel rules in a monster-hunting game, and vehicle stats for everything from military hardware to Winnebagos. Yet beneath this crunch lies innovative systems for character development, NPC generation, and adventure design that were ahead of their time.We also connect Dark Conspiracy to GDW's broader legacy, from Traveller to Twilight 2000, examining how these games influenced an entire generation of players. Our discussion ranges from character optimization (cyborg escapees with strength 18, anyone?) to the evolution of game design, from pure simulation to narrative focus.Whether you're a longtime fan of GDW games or simply curious about this fascinating chapter in RPG history, join us for this exploration of a game that tried to have rules for everything – including how many tons of cargo your spacecraft could deliver to the moon.What was your experience with Dark Conspiracy or other GDW games? Did you track every bullet, or handwave the crunch in favor of the story? Let us know at roll.to.save.pod@gmail.com or find us on Instagram!Contact us at:EMAIL: roll.to.save.pod@gmail.comFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rolltosavepodWEBSITE: https://rolltosave.blogHOSTS: Iain Wilson, Steve McGarrity, Jason DowneyBACKGROUND MUSIC: David Renada (Find him at: davidrendamusic@gmail.com or on his web page).TITLE, BREAK & CLOSEOUT MUSIC: Xylo-Ziko (Find them on their web page).
Get in touch with us!PRODUCTION NOTE - INCIDENT REPORT #DC-001Subject: Anomalous Audio Interference During Initial RecordingClassification: Empathic Incursion (Suspected)Status: RESOLVEDFellow Minion Hunters,We regret to inform you that our initial release of this episode experienced what can only be described as supernatural audio interference. During the original recording session, our carefully balanced audio levels were mysteriously altered, causing the background music to surge in volume and completely drown out the primary discussion track.Our technical analysis revealed no equipment malfunctions, no human error, and no logical explanation for the phenomenon. The audio signatures show patterns consistent with Class-3 empathic interference, specifically targeting frequencies in the vocal range while amplifying ambient sound elements.Possible explanations include:•Dark Minions attempting to suppress information about their 1991 operational plans•Residual dimensional energy from discussing proto-dimensional travel rules•The ghost of Lester W. Smith protecting his space combat mechanics from ridicule•Standard equipment failure (least likely explanation)After consulting with our empathic technical specialist and performing the appropriate protective rituals, we have successfully remastered this episode. The dark forces have been contained, the audio has been properly balanced, and you can now hear our full discussion of Game Designers' Workshop's prescient masterpiece of dystopian horror.We apologize for any inconvenience caused by these otherworldly interruptions. As any Dark Conspiracy veteran knows, the conspiracy never sleeps—and apparently, it really doesn't want you to hear us making fun of the space travel rules.Stay vigilant. Trust no one. Check your audio levels.Contact us at:EMAIL: roll.to.save.pod@gmail.comFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rolltosavepodWEBSITE: https://rolltosave.blogHOSTS: Iain Wilson, Steve McGarrity, Jason DowneyBACKGROUND MUSIC: David Renada (Find him at: davidrendamusic@gmail.com or on his web page).TITLE, BREAK & CLOSEOUT MUSIC: Xylo-Ziko (Find them on their web page).
Get in touch with us!What happens when a beloved classic gets reimagined three decades later? That's the question at the heart of my deep dive into Enemy in Shadows, Cubicle 7's director's cut of the legendary Enemy Within campaign for Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay.As someone who first attempted to run this campaign as a 12-year-old back in 1988, this review comes from a place of both nostalgia and critical analysis. The original Shadows Over Bugenhaven was brilliant but chaotically organized – I spent half my time frantically flipping through pages, hunting for crucial information while my players waited. This new edition promises to maintain the brilliance while fixing those organizational nightmares.The production values are gorgeous, with artwork that perfectly captures the grim darkness of the Warhammer world. The adventure structure has been significantly improved, and the story is refreshingly honest and properly Warhammer.However, the book isn't without flaws. The "Grognard boxes" are problematic and the lack of a clear campaign vision is concerning.So, how does the book fare? Tune in to find out!Have you experienced The Enemy Within? We'd love to hear your thoughts on how this classic shaped your gaming experience!Contact us at:EMAIL: roll.to.save.pod@gmail.comFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/rolltosavepodWEBSITE: https://rolltosave.blogHOSTS: Iain Wilson, Steve McGarrity, Jason DowneyBACKGROUND MUSIC: David Renada (Find him at: davidrendamusic@gmail.com or on his web page).TITLE, BREAK & CLOSEOUT MUSIC: Xylo-Ziko (Find them on their web page).
Hey now, Cabalists! The gang is back and fired up for another episode of The Cabal! Tony's dealing with his dog's unfortunate bout of diarrhea, Chris went out to see Weird Al, and the crew hit the table with a pile of great new games including Above and Below Haunted, Ark Nova: Marine Worlds, El Burro, Heat Pedal to the Metal, Moon Colony Bloodbath, and feature Shackleton Base by Fabio Lopiano and Nestore Mangone, published by Sorry We Are French. After Tony T delivers his always-popular News segment, the gang dives into a discussion on the vital connection between theme and mechanisms in board games. Above and Below Haunted: 00:09:41, Ark Nova: Marine Worlds: 00:18:15, El Burro: 00:27:16, Heat: 00:37:35, Moon Colony Bloodbath: 00:46:319, Shackleton Base: 01:04:09, News with Tony T: 01:38:04, Theme and Mechanism Alignment: 02:31:41. Check out our sponsors Restoration Games at https://restorationgames.com/. Game Toppers at https://www.gametoppersllc.com/. And Game Night Picks at http://gamenightpicks.com/cabal.
Send us a textThis Week: Finding Home, Calling on the Captain, Speak to Fenris, A Bitter Pill, Consoling Words, Plans for the Future, Isabela's Ongoing Search, Visit Anders, Repentance, Night Terrors, Fool's Gold, Raiders on the Cliffs, Prime Suspect, Inside Job, Cave Crawling, Cavern of Dead, Pick Up Pickaxes Next Week: Blackpowder Courtesy, Dissent, Mirror Image, Back from Sundermount, An Update, Family Matter, The Long Road, Offered and Lost, Legacy DLCDragon Age 2 Schedule: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11hISTe_UcimK0p5X0DqsPtSnQN-A4-9cETbz1P6VKGM/edit?usp=sharingGame Guide by Greg Boccia aka noz3r0 https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/pc/988968-dragon-age-ii/faqs/61965Support the showContact: http://linktr.ee/squelchcast Support the show on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/c/Squelch or https://www.twitch.tv/dan0play Join our Discord at https://discord.gg/HwPPtX627k
Part 2 Check out our 2025 Melbourne Live Show!When characters from both the Mighty Nein and Bells Hells find themselves mysteriously split across parallel realms in The Shattered Teeth, they must unite against a common threat....Join Game Master Matthew Mercer and the cast of Critical Role as Fearne Calloway, Caduceus Clay, Imogen Temult, Fjord Stone, Beauregard Lionett, Orym, and Braius Doomseed work together to uncover the truth behind their interdimensional separation in this unforgettable live adventure! PROLOGUE DESCRIPTION:For some extra lore about our Tag Team at the Teeth Adventure, check out our official Tag Team At The Teeth Prologue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oq8RYa0M5EkBells Hells have joined the Mighty Nein at sea in search of Ludinus Da'leth and his safe haven in the Shattered Teeth. As they approach one of the Teeth's mysterious islands, the Nein Hells suddenly find themselves split and separated in parallel realms…Tag Team Team At The Teeth: Two separate cities, two separate adventures, one overarching story. Get Live Show in Australia merch now at our Australia Critical Role shop! Check out our Australia-exclusive tee design, our tour tee and hoodie, and a stunning oversized d20 that holds a map of Exandria within it!Link to shop: https://shop.critrole.com.au/ BEACONWe're excited to bring you even MORE with a Beacon membership! Start your 7-day free trial today at https://beacon.tv/join and get unparalleled access to the shows you love completely ad-free! You'll receive NEW Beacon exclusive series, instant access to VODs & podcasts, live event pre-sales, merch discounts, & a private Discord. Critical Role's 10-Year Anniversary Melbourne Live Show took place on June 19th, 2025 at the Rod Laver Arena.Emceed by Tom Cardy || https://www.instagram.com/tomycardy/"Paint that Lady," "Monster Truck," and "Mixed Messages" by Tom CardyCharacter Art by Hannah Friederichs || @agarthanguide
De minimis; Diablo; deadly wuxia; DIE; Dungeons and Dyslexia; and detectives 00.00.40: Introductions00.03.59: World of Gaming - De minimus and US imports; Diablo rpg; Streets of Jade and its inspiration; DIE the TTRPG of the comic about TTRPGs is getting a Comic QuickStart; we got a great review; Tabletop Scotland 00.42.12: Interview with Paul Baldowski about Cork Bord01.29.03: Next time and Goodbye Effekt is brought to you by Effekt Publishing. Music is by Stars in a Black Sea, used with kind permission of Free League Publishing.Like what we do?Sign up for updates on Tales of the Old West via our new website and download Tales of the Old West QuickDraw available for free on DriveThru. The core rules are now available on DriveThru too.Put our brand on your face! (and elsewhere)Buy pdfs via our DriveThru Affiliate linkLeave a review on iTunes or PodchaserFind our Actual Play recordings on effektap ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Sponsored by Operator Syndrome. If you feel like the world revolves around you, you might be affected! Our fallout boys assault the Armory in full force. But will all their dakka be enough to take down multiple security robots, an augmented troll Operator, and an old-timey Decker? Or will Korg and Zet have the last laugh? Let's find out!
It's been almost exactly 11 years to the day since we last welcomed video game arranger, producer, and saxophonist Sean Schafianski onto Rhythm Encounter, so it's long past time we had him on again! With a string of excellent new arrangement albums throughout last year and this year, there's so much to talk about. From his work on Jazz Arrange Version: Chrono Cross to a 3 "disc" full remaster arrangement of Final Fantasy VI and so much more that even two hours only covered so much of it!But it was a great conversation with music you don't want to miss. Be sure to check below for links on where you can listen to more of Sean's work as well.Featuring: Mike Salbato, Patrick Gann, Sean Schafianski; Edited by Jono LoganLinksRhythm Encounter 19 - Schmoozin' with Schafianski | RPGFanSnarky Puppy - Lingus (We Like It Here)Sean's WebsiteSean on BandcampTracklistClowns, Gods, and Bird Folk0:12:36 - Dancing Mad (comp. Nobuo Uematsu) - Remastered Soundtrack: Final Fantasy VI, Disc 30:16:15 - Island (comp. Yoshino Aoki) - Letters from Wyndia: Music from Breath of Fire IIITime & Space0:45:13 - Primitive Mountain (comp. Nobuo Uematsu) - Remastered Tracks: Chrono Trigger0:47:20 - Fields of Time (Home) (comp. Yasunori Mitsuda) - Jazz Arrange Version: Chrono CrossStorm Clouds1:09:16 - Matataki Village (comp. Tomohito Nishiura) - Remastered Tracks: Dark Cloud1:10:58 - Distant Thunder (from Secret of Mana) (comp. Hiroki Kikuta) - Remembrance: A Game Music Tribute1:48:09 - Sean's Bonus Track!Album links for places to buy, stream, and more are available in our post on RPGFan.Get in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: music@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancom
Part 1 Check out our 2025 Melbourne Live Show!When characters from both the Mighty Nein and Bells Hells find themselves mysteriously split across parallel realms in The Shattered Teeth, they must unite against a common threat....Join Game Master Matthew Mercer and the cast of Critical Role as Fearne Calloway, Caduceus Clay, Imogen Temult, Fjord Stone, Beauregard Lionett, Orym, and Braius Doomseed work together to uncover the truth behind their interdimensional separation in this unforgettable live adventure! PROLOGUE DESCRIPTION:For some extra lore about our Tag Team at the Teeth Adventure, check out our official Tag Team At The Teeth Prologue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oq8RYa0M5EkBells Hells have joined the Mighty Nein at sea in search of Ludinus Da'leth and his safe haven in the Shattered Teeth. As they approach one of the Teeth's mysterious islands, the Nein Hells suddenly find themselves split and separated in parallel realms…Tag Team Team At The Teeth: Two separate cities, two separate adventures, one overarching story. Get Live Show in Australia merch now at our Australia Critical Role shop! Check out our Australia-exclusive tee design, our tour tee and hoodie, and a stunning oversized d20 that holds a map of Exandria within it!Link to shop: https://shop.critrole.com.au/ BEACONWe're excited to bring you even MORE with a Beacon membership! Start your 7-day free trial today at https://beacon.tv/join and get unparalleled access to the shows you love completely ad-free! You'll receive NEW Beacon exclusive series, instant access to VODs & podcasts, live event pre-sales, merch discounts, & a private Discord. Critical Role's 10-Year Anniversary Melbourne Live Show took place on June 19th, 2025 at the Rod Laver Arena.Emceed by Tom Cardy || https://www.instagram.com/tomycardy/"Paint that Lady," "Monster Truck," and "Mixed Messages" by Tom CardyCharacter Art by Hannah Friederichs || @agarthanguide
What about podcasts? You guys got any podcasts?In this week's episode of Retro Encounter, the host re-opens the RPG confessional, a place where we admit to series that we've never played before, much to our shame. Don't worry, though, we're just here to encourage our friends to play good stuff! Who has never touched the Xenoblade Chronicles series? What about the most famous RPG franchise in the world? Sure everyone has played Dragon Quest, right? Listen in to find out!Featuring: Zach Wilkerson, Lucy Gray, Paul Skevington, Matt Wardell; Edited by Zach WilkersonOpening and ending music by Miles MorkriGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: retro@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancom
Greetings, noble Cabalists! This day, the Lords do commence their grand convocation by heeding a missive from a most inquisitive listener, who doth inquire how they divine their next realm of adventure, be it by the singular vision of a lone Game Master, or by the council and clamor of the whole round table. Thereafter, the fellowship embarks upon a most profound discourse concerning the art of embodying one's hero, weaving a soul and spirit into the character, and bringing them to life through word and deed. Hark, and be entertained!
Send us a textThis Week: The Blackpowder Promise, Enemies Among Us, Shepherding Wolves, Wayward Son, Act of Mercy, Garth Brooks, The Exiled Prince, Duty, and Finally the Deep Roads ExpeditionNext Week: Finding Home, Calling on the Captain, Speak to Fenris, A Bitter Pill, Consoling Words, Plans for the Future, Isabela's Ongoing Search, Visit Anders, Repentance, Night Terrors, Fool's Gold, Raiders on the Cliffs, Prime Suspect, Inside Job, Cave Crawling, Cavern of Dead, Pick Up Pickaxes Dragon Age 2 Schedule: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11hISTe_UcimK0p5X0DqsPtSnQN-A4-9cETbz1P6VKGM/edit?usp=sharingGame Guide by Greg Boccia aka noz3r0 https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/pc/988968-dragon-age-ii/faqs/61965Support the showContact: http://linktr.ee/squelchcast Support the show on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/c/Squelch or https://www.twitch.tv/dan0play Join our Discord at https://discord.gg/HwPPtX627k
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben talk about player-crafted items. Crafting is a part of many RPGs, but it's not often discussed in relation to the party's advancement or storytelling. This week we discuss a number of factors to think about when considering what kinds of items your players might craft. We consider the inputs necessary (time and materials) and how that can generate great stories, and we also talk about how to strike a balance between items that are overpowered (and unbalancing for your game) or underpowered (and hence not worth players' putting in the work). Join us for a fascinating conversation about how crafting can make your game richer and more engaging for your players' craftspeople.
Part 2 Check out our 2025 Sydney Live Show!When characters from both the Mighty Nein and Bells Hells find themselves mysteriously split across parallel realms in The Shattered Teeth, they must unite against a common threat.... Join Game Master Matthew Mercer and the cast of Critical Role as Jester Lavorre, Ashton Greymoore, Yasha Nydoorin, Caleb Widogast, Veth Brenatto, Chetney Pock O'Pea, and Laudna work together to uncover the truth behind their interdimensional separation in this unforgettable live adventure!" PROLOGUE DESCRIPTION:For some extra lore about our Tag Team at the Teeth Adventure, check out our official Tag Team At The Teeth Prologue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oq8RYa0M5EkBells Hells have joined the Mighty Nein at sea in search of Ludinus Da'leth and his safe haven in the Shattered Teeth. As they approach one of the Teeth's mysterious islands, the Nein Hells suddenly find themselves split and separated in parallel realms… Get your Critical Role Live in Australia T-Shirt Now! Commemorate a couple epic adventures from down under with this dark green Live in Australia t-shirt featuring a tag-team inspired design of the heroes of Campaigns 2 and 3: The Mighty Nein and Bells Hells. The details of both Live in Australia shows are printed on the front with the official Critical Role 10-Year Anniversary logo on the back.Link to shop: https://shop.critrole.com.au/ Critical Role's 10-Year Anniversary Sydney Live Show took place on June 19th, 2025 at the ICC Sydney Theatre. BEACONWe're excited to bring you even MORE with a Beacon membership! Start your 7-day free trial today at https://beacon.tv/join and get unparalleled access to the shows you love completely ad-free! You'll receive NEW Beacon exclusive series, instant access to VODs & podcasts, live event pre-sales, merch discounts, & a private Discord. Emceed by Tom Cardy || @TomCardy1"Paint that Lady," "Monster Truck," and "Mixed Messages" by Tom CardyCharacter Art by Hannah Friederichs || @agarthanguide
Check out World Anvil here! https://worldanvil.com... - Use the promo code d4 at checkout to save 51%! Watch the "How to Play the Cosmere RPG" here! https://youtu.be/5CB_mEp_AfYI'd appreciate it if you'd consider supporting the channel by becoming a member!https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9jQ2IsZj_CAS0bZgA6O2pA/joinMerch Store! https://www.etsy.com/shop/d4DnDDeepDiveAlso: if you'd like to purchase content through my Amazon affiliate link, it would be another way to help support the channel :) - https://www.amazon.com/shop/d4dddeepdive?listId=MFEYK9W51D9K&ref=idea_share_infFollow me here:Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/colbypoulson.bsky.socialTwitter (X): https://twitter.com/ColbyPoulsonTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dnddeepdiveIntro 0:00Welcome to Roshar 8:05World Guide 10:48Stormlight Handbook 17:40Ancestries/Singers 18:51Paths (Classes) 24:02Radiant Paths 30:08Shards & Fabrials 36:33Goals & Reward 39:23Combat & Conversations 41:29For The GM 43:15Conclusion 45:37Outtakes 47:25Music Credits:Achaidh Cheide - Celtic by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100340Artist: http://incompetech.com/Angevin 120 loop by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1200111Artist: http://incompetech.com/Celtic Impulse - Celtic by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100297Artist: http://incompetech.com/Fiddles McGinty by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1400051Artist: http://incompetech.com/Lord of the Land by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1400022Artist: http://incompetech.com/Master of the Feast by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1400019Artist: http://incompetech.comI'd appreciate it if you'd consider supporting the channel by becoming a member!https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9jQ2IsZj_CAS0bZgA6O2pA/join
Sponsored by Meijer-Jupiter Unilateral Armory, come here for loot, stay because an Operator won't let you leave… Our fallout boys scout out a great location for setting up a permanent camp - an old military airbase. The only problem is that a bunch of someones have already squatted the area. They will have to infiltrate the group and report back a good plan of attack. Will anyone recognise they don't belong here, or is that the least of their worries? Let's find out!
On this week's Random Encounter, we're discussing a mobile-based gacha spinoff of a beloved JRPG and a Wii U classic that has finally made its way to a modern console!Persona 5 has more than its share of spinoffs, including Persona 5 Royal, Persona 5 Strikers, Persona 5: Dancing in Starlight, and Persona 5 Tactica, and now there is a new game to add to the list: Persona 5: The Phantom X. This mobile and PC game is a full-fledged JRPG, but one with dozens of gacha mechanics in the way of a smooth gameplay experience. Was Audra able to get over these revenue traps to enjoy the solid game beneath?And then Ben is here to talk about the first 100 in RPGFan history: Xenoblade Chronicles X! This classic JRPG was released on the Wii U, where no one really played it (but to be fair, no one really played the Wii U either). But now it's available on the Nintendo Switch, so no one has an excuse not to play this spectacular early entry in the long-running, beloved Xenoblade series! Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, and Ben Love; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:Persona 5: The Phantom X ReviewPersona 5 ReviewPersona 5 Royal ReviewPersona 5 Strikers ReviewXenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition ReviewXenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition Review
Part 1 Check out our 2025 Sydney Live Show!When characters from both the Mighty Nein and Bells Hells find themselves mysteriously split across parallel realms in The Shattered Teeth, they must unite against a common threat.... Join Game Master Matthew Mercer and the cast of Critical Role as Jester Lavorre, Ashton Greymoore, Yasha Nydoorin, Caleb Widogast, Veth Brenatto, Chetney Pock O'Pea, and Laudna work together to uncover the truth behind their interdimensional separation in this unforgettable live adventure!" PROLOGUE DESCRIPTION:For some extra lore about our Tag Team at the Teeth Adventure, check out our official Tag Team At The Teeth Prologue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oq8RYa0M5EkBells Hells have joined the Mighty Nein at sea in search of Ludinus Da'leth and his safe haven in the Shattered Teeth. As they approach one of the Teeth's mysterious islands, the Nein Hells suddenly find themselves split and separated in parallel realms… Get your Critical Role Live in Australia T-Shirt Now! Commemorate a couple epic adventures from down under with this dark green Live in Australia t-shirt featuring a tag-team inspired design of the heroes of Campaigns 2 and 3: The Mighty Nein and Bells Hells. The details of both Live in Australia shows are printed on the front with the official Critical Role 10-Year Anniversary logo on the back.Link to shop: https://shop.critrole.com.au/ Critical Role's 10-Year Anniversary Sydney Live Show took place on June 19th, 2025 at the ICC Sydney Theatre. BEACONWe're excited to bring you even MORE with a Beacon membership! Start your 7-day free trial today at https://beacon.tv/join and get unparalleled access to the shows you love completely ad-free! You'll receive NEW Beacon exclusive series, instant access to VODs & podcasts, live event pre-sales, merch discounts, & a private Discord. Emceed by Tom Cardy || @TomCardy1"Paint that Lady," "Monster Truck," and "Mixed Messages" by Tom CardyCharacter Art by Hannah Friederichs || @agarthanguide
The Cabal is back in action, and we dive into a conversation about Chris' adventures at Anthrocon! One day, we'll get him to dress up as the red panda. After that, we get into some of the games we've been playing, including Cities, Vantage, City of Horror, Creature Caravan, Monsters Menace the World, and a feature review of Lord of the Rings: Fate of the Fellowship from Matt Leacock. Then, after Tony T gives us all the most important news from the board gaming world, we answer a series of listener questions covering gimmicks and innovations, design trends that annoy us, and our least favorite gamer traits. Cities: 00:09:53, Vantage: 00:22:26, City of Horror: 00:34:21, Creature Caravan: 00:44:30, Monsters Menace the World: 00:51:19, The Lord of the Rings: Fate of the Fellowship: 00:58:56, News with Tony T: 01:35:01, Short Topic Extravaganza: 02:22:50. Check out our sponsors Restoration Games at https://restorationgames.com/. Game Toppers at https://www.gametoppersllc.com/. And Game Night Picks at http://gamenightpicks.com/cabal.
Old school podcasting! Hose rules for Coriolis the Third Horizon00.00.40: Introductions00.03.37: Thank you to our new Patron - D20 Raven00.05.12: World of Gaming - The One Ring starter set and 5e version; Dragonbane minis up on Kickstarter; Coriolis - The Great Dark official release date 12 August; new game Twilight Sword, by 2Little Mice & Free League; ENNIE wins. 00.32.56: A Vaesen tour of Uppsala01.13.25: Next time and Goodbye Effekt is brought to you by Effekt Publishing. Music is by Stars in a Black Sea, used with kind permission of Free League Publishing.Like what we do?Sign up for updates on Tales of the Old West via our new website and download Tales of the Old West QuickDraw available for free on DriveThru. The core rules are now available on DriveThru too.Put our brand on your face! (and elsewhere)Buy pdfs via our DriveThru Affiliate linkLeave a review on iTunes or PodchaserFind our Actual Play recordings on effektap ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Call it spring, some spring and some summer, or the most accurate but boring moniker, "Q2 2025," but the second quarter of this year saw the release of some VERY musically important titles in RPGFan's coverage. While Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 looms over everything in the RPG space for this time period, there were many notable other releases that also deserve your time, from RPGs to adventure games and visual novels.Oh, and classic RPG fans, just for the record, Mike would have included a song in honor of the overdue release of the Super Mario RPG (Remake + SNES) OST if he hadn't featured that game in our prior episode!As usual, we also have a longer list below of the many albums and releases we considered for this episode, so don't miss it!Featuring: Mike Salbato, Hilary Andreff; Edited by Mike SalbatoLinks for this episodeRose Betts' WebsiteMedieval Lofi on BandcampThe 8-Bit Big Band - "Orchestrator Emulator" Album (YouTube)Tracklist0:07:51 - The 80s Called (Thomas Regin) - Old Skies0:13:23 - Encounter Elite! (Narcis Version) (Eric W. Brown) - Sea of Stars: Throes of the Watchmaker0:19:05 - Ever Higher (Toby Fox) - Deltarune Chapters 3+40:24:14 - Theme from Capriccio Infernal (John Michael Tatum) - Date Everything0:32:46 - Éveil (Lorien Testard) - Clair Obscur: Expedition 330:40:09 - Under the Black Bridge (Trigg & Gusset) - Blue PrinceAlbum links for places to buy, stream, and more are available in our post on RPGFan.Get in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: music@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancom
You've got to jump into the podcast!This week on Retro Encounter, the panel is back to dig into the story-heavy second half of Breath of Fire II. Who can't stand the solo sections? Just how long can a final dungeon be? Is this the first time we killed God? Listen in to find out!Featuring: Zach Wilkerson, Mike Salbato, Matt Wardell; Edited by Paul DennisOpening and ending music by Miles MorkriGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: retro@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancom
In Express Episode 110, Don, Chris, and Jamie get together to talk about the end game - goals, objectives, and victory in board games. They discuss competitiveness, process-oriented players, winning and losing streaks, imperative and contingent goals, and what it really means to feel like you've won a game. Enjoy!
Send us a textGame Guide by Greg Boccia aka noz3r0 https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/pc/988968-dragon-age-ii/faqs/61965 This Week: Fools Rush In, Isabela's Contact, Finders Keepers, The First Sacrifice, Long Way Home, Welcome Home, Herbalist's Tasks, The Unbidden Rescue, Nice Crime You Have Around HereNext Week: Squelch! Live! From PocatelloSupport the showContact: http://linktr.ee/squelchcast Support the show on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/c/Squelch or https://www.twitch.tv/dan0play Join our Discord at https://discord.gg/HwPPtX627k
Hey Now Cabalists! In episode 109 of The Secret Cabal Express Don and Jamie put together all of the games that they're frothing at the mouth and jumping outta their pants to get at from Gen Con 2025 coming up in a few weeks. Head over to TheSecretCabal.com and click on the link to this episode to get links to all the games we discussed on the show today. Enjoy!
Tony's back from Ireland and Steve's shot out of a cannon! Get ready for a wild ride. Today the gang runs down a bunch of games they've been playing including Transgalactica, Sekigahara The Unification of Japan, The White Castle, Steam Power, Shackleton Base, and a feature review of Galileo Galilei by new designer Tomas Holek. Then after Tony T wrestles the News hosting duties away from Steve, the gang reads and discusses some spicy hot takes submitted by Cabalists! Transgalactica: 00:04:31, Sekigahara: 00:14:35, The White Castle: 00:21:38, Steam Power: 00:32:26, Shackleton Base: 00:42:12, Galileo Galilei: 00:56:08, News with Tony T: 01:27:01, Cabalist Spicy Hot Takes: 02:16:49. Check out our sponsors Restoration Games at https://restorationgames.com/. Game Toppers at https://www.gametoppersllc.com/. And CGE at https://czechgames.com/.