The Lazy RPG Podcast - D&D and RPG News and GM Prep from Sly Flourish

Reflecting on a vibrant year, key highlights from 2025 in tabletop RPGs are unpacked. New releases like Daggerheart and innovative games are celebrated. The impact of open licenses is discussed, alongside the introduction of doom points as an exciting DM tool. Critical Role's transition to D&D 2024 and the conclusion of Project Sigil spark engaging commentary. Predictions for a quieter 2026 are made, while the importance of fostering new players in the RPG community is emphasized. A rich overview brimming with insights awaits!

Mike dives into preparing for a thrilling new session in the Dragon Empire, emphasizing the importance of clarifying player choices. Listeners are treated to the intrigue of a ghoul emperor's assassination job and the moral dilemma of handing over Parsis' son. The session promises a major battle as the party teleports into the Tower of Horn and Gold, equipped with tailored monsters for cinematic chaos. Mike also shares strategic insights, treasure ideas, and hooks for character development—all while enriching the campaign with unique lore elements!

This episode dives into recent D&D and RPG news, including exciting bundles and a must-see documentary on RPG culture. A highlight is a conversation on how to creatively modify published adventures for better gameplay. Listeners also explore practical ways to support RPG creators beyond the algorithm, plus tips on enhancing character motivations for new players. The show emphasizes the importance of adapting adventures to fit your table, ensuring player agency and immersion.

Mike dives into the thrilling chaos of his Dragon Empire campaign. He reveals a stunning twist involving a spymaster and a risky smuggling mission. A ghoul emissary confronts the party, leading to dark alliances with shadow dragons. Intriguing mission offers from Emperor Vilmos spice up the stakes as players choose their paths. With clever mapping and new NPCs, Mike keeps the adventure fresh. He also contemplates monster choices and treasures, layering secrets that add depth to the campaign. It's a rich tapestry of storytelling and strategy!

Discover the last days of an exciting book sale and innovative adventure prompts to enhance your gaming experience. Dive into the latest D&D news, including a gift guide for indie RPGs and a new Kickstarter spotlight. Learn valuable tips on prepping through villains for richer storytelling. Ever wondered about D&D Beyond's API access and updates? Hear insights from a developer AMA, including important changes and community feedback requests, all while exploring maps and villain dynamics to elevate your campaigns.

Mike dives into preparations for a thrilling campaign in the Dragon Empire. He reveals the enigmatic Parsis the Hidden, a draconic assassin stirring fear among players. An intriguing mission emerges: smuggling Parsis' son in exchange for a dragon-slaying weapon. Excitement builds as the party navigates the Shadow Roads, facing dilemmas and chaotic factions. With a strong start idea of Mateo's bizarre reincarnation and plans for fierce encounters and secrets, this session promises a dynamic adventure filled with moral choices and strategic decisions!

Dive into the world of RPGs with discussions about running the Scarlet Minotaur as a dynamic one-shot. Explore the anticipation for EN World's RPG nominations in 2026 and discover what makes 2024–25 a golden age for tabletop gaming. Learn key lessons from two distinct session zeros, including tips on worldbuilding and player engagement. Uncover the complexities of Dragonbane and Daggerheart, including character creation challenges and unique mechanics. Plus, get insights on crafting secrets for your campaigns!

Mike gears up for an exciting Dragon Empire campaign, reviewing intense encounters from the last session. He dives into the challenges of high-level play, offering tips on encounter pacing and tools like Obsidian. Secrets among characters come to the forefront as he unveils shocking identities. Travel routes become a focal point, with thematic monsters like a corpse-like gardener and shadow dragons in the mix. As Mike sets the stage for tense faction conflicts, the adventure promises thrilling twists and rich storytelling!

Delve into the thrilling world of upcoming RPGs as the discussion highlights standout products from 2025 and anticipates what 2026 has in store. Uncover the features of the exciting Beast RPG and why Dragonbane has captured attention with its unique mechanics. Learn about Shadowrun bundles and explore innovative map packs. Tips for preparing new campaigns, crafting compelling hooks, and the debate over RPG starter sets keep the conversation lively. Tune in for fresh insights on trends post-OGL and advice for running engaging sessions!

Discover a three-step campaign prep approach that helps GMs launch engaging games. Learn how Dragonbane adventures enhance session zero, setting players up with rich backgrounds. Explore organizing campaigns in Obsidian using handy templates. Dive into character creation with motivations that foster group cohesion and the unique 'heroic spark' mechanic. Unpack the Misty Veil's intriguing factions and tackle potential adventure pitfalls. Plus, get valuable insights on combat tactics and creating meaningful locations that extend beyond mere loot.