Not Another D&D Podcast D&D Court: Stubborn DMs, and Immovable Rods
Jan 8, 2026
Dungeon Court returns as judges tackle quirky dilemmas from D&D tables! A bard's clever Suggestion play faces off against a stubborn DM's refusal to hand over a coveted immovable rod. The panel debates the chaotic aftermath of shadow mastiffs leading to a total party kill and factors behind deadly encounters. Expectations around ranger gear repairs ignite discussion, while NPC voice quirks raise eyebrows. From mechanical mishaps to hilarious player antics, the judges weigh in with wit and wisdom!
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Episode notes
Honor Item Stakes You Present
- If you introduce an item, be prepared to give it away or remove it from play entirely.
- Avoid showing players a tempting magic item and then refusing to honor outcomes decided by game mechanics.
Open-Ended Items Enable Playful Chaos
- The immovable rod is an open-ended tool that enables manageable player-driven chaos.
- It creates fun, non-campaign-ruining pranks and creative problem solving when used responsibly.
Surprise Mastiff Ambush Kills Party
- Brian Murphy describes stepping into a room and being placed in the center, leading to immediate ambush by shadow mastiffs.
- The encounter resulted in the party getting mauled and ultimately being TPK'd in a single room.
