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

Dive into the thrilling preparations for a campaign featuring a dragon's roost and strategic game map design. Explore the characters' perilous quest to the obsidian keep, battling winter wolves and navigating political alliances. Discover the intricate financial logistics of funding an army, including the tricky calculations of managing mercenary costs. Finally, uncover the treasures and creative tactics behind an upcoming heist, complete with clever strategies for transporting copious amounts of gold.

Dive into the world of tabletop RPGs as a new Kickstarter campaign takes the spotlight. Discover the implications of Chris Perkins' exit from Wizards of the Coast and how tariffs are reshaping the industry. Enjoy a lively discussion on the balance between copyright and community creativity, while also exploring strategies for battling a Dracolich. Plus, get practical DM tips on character building and managing player perceptions. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their gaming experience!

Mike dives into preparations for his Tales of the Valiant Dragon Empire campaign. The group faces ghost walker ettins and humorous game mechanics mishaps, leading to mysterious discoveries. Political intrigue unfolds with characters entangled in smuggler schemes and rivalries. They explore the obsidian fortress of Black Spire and its enigmatic guardians. Encounter balancing becomes crucial as players strategize against winter wolves, all while crafting immersive adventures filled with colorful NPCs and rich lore.

Dive into the world of tabletop RPGs with exciting insights on Kickstarter projects like Free5e and the Alien RPG Evolved Edition. Explore the potential impact of a Creative Commons 5e RPG for global accessibility. Engage with the challenges of running high-stakes encounters featuring formidable Dracoliches. Uncover tips on flexible rules and strategic initiative handling in combat to enhance player experiences. Plus, discover the latest discussions on D&D 2024's stealth mechanics and promote better online gameplay behavior!

Explore the latest in D&D and RPG news, including intriguing Humble Bundles and the fate of Sigil. Delve into the Zaminora Ballad of the Witch Kickstarter while discussing community reactions to the cancellation of the Sigil virtual tabletop. Gain insights into optimizing gameplay without sacrificing fun and learn how to balance player choices through innovative mechanics. Discover the nuances of running Level Up Advanced 5E compared to standard D&D, highlighting player preferences for gameplay complexity.

Join Mike as he dives into the thrilling preparations for his Dragon Empire campaign. The plot thickens with a daring hijack of a dragon-linked smuggling operation, complete with magical portals and rival allies. Discover unique treasures and character lore that add depth to the game. Exciting locations like the 'Forgotten Shrine of Nackrash' and abandoned sewers are revealed as potential adventure spots. Mike shares insights on crafting balanced narratives and keeping players engaged, while offering strategic game-master tips.

Dive into the world of RPGs with fascinating insights on the Beyond the Woods Kickstarter, exploring its Irish folklore ties. Uncover the mechanics of the Shadowdark RPG, especially the exciting Western Reaches edition. Discussions around pricing and house rules reveal how these elements enhance gameplay. Alternatives to cultists, like mercenaries, offer new storytelling opportunities. Plus, discover tips for creating engaging adventures for novice players that keep them returning for more!

Mike prepares the next session of his Tales of the Valiant Dragon Empire campaign. Visit the Sly Flourish Blog Subscribe to the Sly Flourish Newsletter Subscribe to the Sly Flourish Podcast Support Sly Flourish on Patreon Buy Sly Flourish Books Midgard Worldbook Tales of the Valiant Obsidian for TTRPGs

D&D and RPG news and commentary by Mike Shea of https://slyflourish.com Contents 00:00 Show Start 01:21 D&D & RPG News: Mork Borg Bundle of Holding 04:11 D&D & RPG News: Potbellied Kobold Bundle of Holding 05:03 D&D & RPG News: Dungeon Crawl Classics Humble Bundle 07:49 Kickstarter Spotlight: Secrets of Magic for Fateforge 10:29 D&D & RPG News: D&D 2025 Starter Set Info 15:44 Commentary: What WOTC Products Matter for the RPG Hobby? 17:42 Commentary: Sci Show on Science of Scheduling a D&D Game 23:14 D&D & RPG News: Bob World Builder on RPG Kickstarters 28:10 Commentary: RPGs I Want To Play 37:17 DM Tip: The Retreat Action 46:14 Patreon Question: How Does Fog Cloud Work with Advantage? 50:12 Patreon Question: The Eight Steps with Big Dungeons 52:45 Patreon Question: Players Forgetting Character Abilities 54:40 Patreon Question: Dealing with Players Whose Characters Run Ahead 59:35 Patreon Question: DM Screen on Small Table Links Subscribe to the Sly Flourish Newsletter Support Sly Flourish on Patreon Buy Sly Flourish Books: Mork Borg Bundle of Holding Potbellied Kobold Bundle of Holding DCC Megabundle Humble Bundle Fateforge Secrets of Magic Kickstarter D&D Starter Set Video Official D&D Starter Set Demo at New York Toy Faire EN World Thread Sci Show on Scheduling RPG Games Bob World Builder on Crowdfunding Historical Trends The Retreat Action

Mike prepares the next session of his Tales of the Valiant Dragon Empire campaign. Visit the Sly Flourish Blog Subscribe to the Sly Flourish Newsletter Subscribe to the Sly Flourish Podcast Support Sly Flourish on Patreon Buy Sly Flourish Books Midgard Worldbook Tales of the Valiant Obsidian for TTRPGs