Rascal Radio Hour Episode 28: Holiday Special 2025
Dec 22, 2025
This holiday special features Caelyn Ellis, a passionate journalist on tabletop games, and Lin Codega, a sharp-witted writer and critic. The duo dives into the cultural impact of Apocalypse World, shares recommendations for Ghibli-esque RPGs, and hilariously debates the worst licenses for a Monster Hearts hack. They reflect on the importance of crowdfunding ethics and the evolving tabletop landscape, while highlighting must-try duet games. With engaging banter, they celebrate the vibrant future of tabletop gaming!
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Episode notes
Target One Ghibli Thread
- Seek games that capture a single strand of Ghibli feeling rather than copying its entire aesthetic.
- Play titles like Chubo's Marvelous Wish-Granting Engine, Cloud Empress, or Ryutama to get distinct Ghibli-like themes.
Ghibli Is Warm, Not Merely Cozy
- Ghibli isn't just 'cozy'—it wrestles with conflict, change, and uncomfortable emotions.
- Environmental concerns and societal transitions often underpin that deceptively warm tone.
Play Compact Ghibli-Style Games
- Try Under the Floorboards and Monster Care Squad for compact, evocative Ghibli vibes.
- Use one-shots or healing-quest structures to mirror film-like story arcs and environmental themes.
