Total Party Thrill: RPG Advice From Our Table to Yours

I-Hsien's new podcast is here! Critical Lit is a tongue-in-cheek re-examination of classic RPG modules that answers important questions like What is the nature of a predator? and Is Strahd hot or not? He's joined by Dan Dillon, Amelia Som & Sal Tamarkin. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/critical-lit/id1826377168 In this episode: Ravenloft history, Tracy Hickman's Foreword, Introduction, Chapter 1. The mists spirit us away to Barovia, a pastiche of gothic horror tropes and modern vampire mythos. We tackle the important questions, like how to run a spooky game, and How do we feel about Strahd's fit? One thing's for certain: he sucks. As a person. But he's a compelling villain, a classic presentation of an abusive narcissist who's been serving since 1983. Support us on Patreon to hear monthly bonus episodes: https://www.patreon.com/CriticalLit Contact us: Email: hugepitfilledwith200spikes@gmail.com Bluesky: @CriticalLit.bsky.social Dan Dillon: @dandillon.bsky.social I-Hsien Sherwood: @ihsien.bsky.social Amelia Som: @ameliasom.com Sal Tamarkin: @sal.gay

I-Hsien is joined by Fiona K. T. Howat, host of the What Am I Rolling? Podcast to review the new RPG from Critical Role’s Darrington Press. We’ll check out the system, character creation, combat mechanics, GM guidance, adversaries and campaign frames and let you know if it’s worth bringing to your table. Editing: Aram Vartian Important Links: What Am I Rolling?: Every month, Fiona takes a brand new group of players and runs them through a one-shot adventure, testing out a different RPG game style or system. Total Party Thrill Discord server: Come hang out with us and other fans of the show. https://discord.com/invite/GvFXnSv TPT Character Creation Forge Codex: It's finally here! A huge thanks to all our Patreon supporters who made it possible. Teepublic: Home of the TPT-shirt! Contact us: Bluesky: @totalpartythrill.bsky.social Twitter: @TPTcast Email: totalpartythrill@gmail.com Web: www.totalpartythrill.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/totalpartythrill Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/totalpartythrill YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/TotalPartyThrill

In a lively discussion, the hosts dissect the latest D&D 2024 rules and their implications for gameplay. They share insights on the challenges facing the development team and the disconnect with player expectations. Critiques abound over item creation rules and the complexity newcomers face. Beyond D&D, they explore alternative RPG systems like Pathfinder 2nd Edition, making a case for variety in gaming. Plus, they briefly venture into the whimsical world of 'Star Wall Odyssey', showcasing its imaginative appeal.

Join the hosts as they dive into the significant updates in the 2025 D&D 5e Monster Manual, including revamped lore and new high-level threats. They explore the evolution of monster naming conventions for better inclusivity and usability. Discover the artistic transformation with vibrant illustrations enhancing storytelling. The discussion also covers combat mechanics, spellcasting changes, and critiques on the usability of the manual. With insightful comparisons to earlier editions, this review provides a comprehensive look at how the game evolves while balancing tradition with innovation.

Daniel Kwan, a talented game designer known for his work on Candlekeep Mysteries and host of the Asians Represent! podcast, joins the discussion. They dive deep into the evolving monk class in D&D 2024, highlighting shifts towards more inclusive and authentic representations of martial arts. Kwan shares insights on the importance of accurate cultural portrayals in gaming and critiques past designs for cultural appropriation. The conversation emphasizes how diverse narratives can enhance player experiences and promote understanding in tabletop RPGs.

I-Hsien and Shane discuss how to play grumpy, ornery, recalcitrant characters—without pissing off the rest of the party. With the right approach, everyone gets to enjoy their bad temper. And in the Gates of Mourning campaign, the party scrubs in.Editing: Aram VartianImportant Links:Support the show on Patreon and get access to the Character Creation Forge: https://www.patreon.com/totalpartythrillTotal Party Thrill Discord server: Come hang out with us and other fans of the show. https://discord.com/invite/GvFXnSvTPT Character Creation Forge Codex: It's finally here! A huge thanks to all our Patreon supporters who made it possible.Teepublic: Home of the TPT-shirt!Contact us:Bluesky: @totalpartythrill.bsky.socialTwitter: @TPTcastEmail: totalpartythrill@gmail.comWeb: www.totalpartythrill.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/totalpartythrillInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/totalpartythrillYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/TotalPartyThrill

I-Hsien and Shane discuss how to run and adjudicate powerful, open-ended magic, artifacts, and technology at your table. Here’s how to handle the new narrative and mechanical options that come with them, combine magical effects, and keep the game moving. And the party reconnects in the Gates of Mourning campaign.Editing: Aram VartianImportant Links:Support the show on Patreon and get access to the Character Creation Forge: https://www.patreon.com/totalpartythrillTotal Party Thrill Discord server: Come hang out with us and other fans of the show. https://discord.com/invite/GvFXnSvTPT Character Creation Forge Codex: It's finally here! A huge thanks to all our Patreon supporters who made it possible.Teepublic: Home of the TPT-shirt!Contact us:Bluesky: @totalpartythrill.bsky.socialTwitter: @TPTcastEmail: totalpartythrill@gmail.comWeb: www.totalpartythrill.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/totalpartythrillInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/totalpartythrillYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/TotalPartyThrill

Discover what makes item crafting systems in RPGs fun and robust. The hosts explore the balance of functionality and creativity, addressing common frustrations players face. Dive into the evolution of magic item creation and how different systems impact gameplay dynamics. Learn how crafting can enhance storytelling and emotional connections with magic items. Plus, get a glimpse of the exciting narrative challenges unfolding in the Gates of Mourning campaign. Join the discussion on the future of crafting in tabletop games!

I-Hsien and Shane talk about how to create effective table rules to help everyone have more fun—and fix issues with your game system. And the party reunites with their oldest friend in the Gates of Mourning campaign.Editing: Aram VartianImportant Links:Support the show on Patreon and get access to the Character Creation Forge: https://www.patreon.com/totalpartythrillTotal Party Thrill Discord server: Come hang out with us and other fans of the show. https://discord.com/invite/GvFXnSvTPT Character Creation Forge Codex: It's finally here! A huge thanks to all our Patreon supporters who made it possible.Teepublic: Home of the TPT-shirt!Contact us:Bluesky: @totalpartythrill.bsky.socialTwitter: @TPTcastEmail: totalpartythrill@gmail.comWeb: www.totalpartythrill.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/totalpartythrillInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/totalpartythrillYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/TotalPartyThrill

Dive into the 2024 Dungeon Master's Guide as the hosts dissect its new rules and tools for DMs. They explore the guide's design and usability, highlighting enhanced prep strategies and the integration of virtual tools for remote play. The discussion points out the importance of a vibe-focused approach and critiques the balance between detail and accessibility. From magic item mechanics to the innovative concept of bastions, the hosts weave humor with insights, questioning traditional gaming philosophies while encouraging creativity at the table.