The Lazy RPG Podcast - D&D and RPG News and GM Prep from Sly Flourish What Is a D&D Franchise Model? – Lazy RPG Talk Show
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Jul 14, 2025 Explore the intriguing transition of Dungeons & Dragons into a franchise model and its potential implications. Discover the City of Arches, a versatile setting for lazy game masters, complete with rich lore and adventure hooks. Dive into the encounter calculator for customizable combat challenges and learn how to enhance replayability with random elements. The conversation emphasizes prioritizing fun over strict rules in RPGs, encouraging a relaxed approach to game mastering while engaging players with secrets and storytelling.
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Understanding D&D Franchise Model
- The D&D franchise model means licensing the brand for video games, merchandise, and media, not outsourcing book production.
- Previously, different teams had loose coordination; now there is a unified head to oversee all brand aspects.
Descent Into Avernus Franchise Example
- Descent into Avernus was rewritten to shoehorn Baldur's Gate in due to franchise pressures.
- This creative shift led to a disjointed adventure and was criticized by fans and designers alike.
RPG Hobby Is Self-Controlled
- Once you own RPG core books, no industry changes affect your personal game significantly.
- The RPG hobby is like sharing one hamburger for 50 years; the game experience remains stable.
