RPGBOT.Podcast

Latest Episodes:

D&D 2024 PHB - RANGER CHANGES - What's stopping me from building a Ranged Fighter with Eldritch Knight and taking Magic Weapon Aug 12, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we breakdown the changes to the Ranger class in the 2024 rules of Dungeons and Dragons. We go through each class feature and highlight the differences from previous versions.

Summary

We discuss the improvements to spellcasting, the changes to Favored Enemy and Favored Foe, the addition of more expertise, and the new subclass features. We were disappointed with the capstone feature, Foe Slayer. Overall, we acknowledge that while the Ranger class has seen some improvements, it still has its flaws and is considered by some to be the worst class in the 2024 rules.

We dig into the subclasses of the Ranger class in D&D 5e. We talk about the Beastmaster, Feywanderer, Gloomstalker, and Hunter subclasses. We highlight the changes and improvements made to the subclasses in the 2024 rules, but also point out some issues and frustrations. We discuss the balance between using Hunter's Mark and other class features, and the impact of concentration on the Ranger's gameplay. We were unenthusiastic with the changes made to the Gloomstalker subclass and the nerfs to the Hunter subclass. Overall, we feel that the Ranger class still has some design flaws and missed opportunities.

Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the changes made to some signature ranger spells, including the removal of concentration requirements. We were concerned about the heavy dependence on Hunter's Mark and the lack of flavor in the ranger class. We suggest that the ranger subclasses could be better suited as fighter subclasses, allowing for more diverse and flavorful gameplay. Despite the criticisms, they acknowledge that the 2024 ranger is an improvement over the 2014 version.

Links

Player's Handbook (affiliate link)
Content from RPGBOT.net

Previous RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

Takeaways

The Ranger class in the 2024 rules has seen some improvements compared to previous versions.
The changes to spellcasting, such as the ability to change prepared spells and the reduction of reliance on concentration, are considered positive.
The Favored Enemy and Favored Foe features have been updated to provide more versatility and options for the Ranger.
The addition of more expertise and the removal of the bonus action requirement for two-weapon fighting are welcomed changes.
However, the capstone feature, Foe Slayer, is considered underwhelming and disappointing.
While the Ranger class has seen improvements, it is still considered by some to be the worst class in the 2024 rules. The 2024 rules made improvements to the Ranger subclasses, but there are still some frustrations and missed opportunities.
The Beastmaster subclass can be effective without relying on Hunter's Mark, but it can feel limited and overshadowed by other options.
The Feywanderer subclass received no changes and remains a strong option for Rangers.
The Gloomstalker subclass was nerfed and lost its extra attack feature, which disappointed the hosts.
The Hunter subclass also received changes, but the removal of options and the reliance on Hunter's Mark led to some dissatisfaction.
The hosts discuss the issue of concentration and the impact it has on the Ranger's gameplay.
Overall, the hosts feel that the Ranger class still has design flaws and could benefit from further improvements. The removal of concentration requirements for certain ranger spells is seen as a positive change, allowing rangers to use a wider range of spells in combat.
The heavy dependence on Hunter's Mark as a damage boost is a concern, as it limits the variety of spells rangers can use.
The hosts suggest that the ranger subclasses could be better suited as fighter subclasses, as they offer more diverse and flavorful gameplay options.
Despite the criticisms, the hosts acknowledge that the 2024 ranger is an improvement over the 2014 version.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

CHARACTER ADVANCEMENT (2022 Remastered): From Gold to Gains: Using Experience as a Currency in Tabletop Gaming Aug 10, 2024

Show notes

In this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast from April 2022, we discuss experience and advancement systems in tabletop RPGs. We discuss classic experience point, milestone leveling, and other ways of tracking experience. We also look at RPGs that use that experience differently from DnD/Pathfinder, such as by using it to purchase specific improvements.

Materials Referenced in this Episode

RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

Articles from RPGBOT.Net

Dungeons and Dragons 5e

Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link)

The One Ring 2e

Core Rulebook (digital) (affiliate link)
Core Rulebook (physical) (affiliate link)

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

DnD 2024 PHB CHARACTER CREATION - What if I told you there were three-ish types of feats? Aug 08, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast we'll be discussing the revamped character creation process in the upcoming 2024 D&D 5th Edition ruleset. Get ready for an in-depth breakdown of the changes to classes, subclasses, and backgrounds, as well as a new order of character creation. With a focus on player preferences and flexibility, this is one episode you don't want to miss.

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we break down the character creation process in the 2024 D&D 5th Edition ruleset. We cover the changes to classes, subclasses, and backgrounds. The order of character creation has been adjusted, with class being chosen first, followed by origin (background), ability scores, alignment, and details. The complexity of each class is now listed, helping players choose a class that suits their preferences. Subclasses have been moved to level three, allowing for more flexibility in playstyle. Backgrounds have undergone the most significant rework, with each background now providing ability score options, skill and tool proficiencies, starting equipment, and an origin feat.

Backgrounds are now more meaningful and important in character creation and we talk about the potential for new batches of backgrounds in future adventures and source books. We express the desire for more backgrounds and suggest tying them to major characters in the supplements. We also discuss the importance of making backgrounds available on D&D Beyond for everyone.

We then talk about the different types of feats, including origin feats, general feats, and epic boons. We go into specific feats and the changes that have been made to them, such as the nerf to the Lucky feat. We highlight the inclusion of ability score increases in general feats and the impact this has on character builds. In this final part of the conversation, We discuss character creation and NPC generation in the new edition of Dungeons and Dragons. We advise using generators for names and backgrounds, and recommend reskinning existing monsters for NPCs. We caution against building NPCs as player characters and suggest using the personality traits provided in the background section of the Player's Handbook.

Links

2024 DnD 5e Player's Handbook (affiliate link)
Tome of Beasts (affiliate link)
Content from RPGBOT.net

2024 D&D 5e Transition Guide

RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

2024 DnD 5e PHB Review

Takeaways

The order of character creation has changed, with class being chosen first, followed by origin, ability scores, alignment, and details.
Each class now has a listed complexity, helping players choose a class that suits their preferences.
Subclasses have been moved to level three, allowing for more flexibility in playstyle.
Backgrounds have undergone a significant rework, providing ability score options, skill and tool proficiencies, starting equipment, and an origin feat.
Backgrounds are now more meaningful and important in character creation. There is a desire for more backgrounds in future adventures and source books
Tying backgrounds to major characters in supplements can add depth to the world
Making backgrounds available on D&D Beyond for everyone would be beneficial
Origin feats, general feats, and epic boons are the three types of feats
The inclusion of ability score increases in general feats impacts character builds Use generators for names and backgrounds
Reskin existing monsters for NPCs
Don't build NPCs as player characters
Use the personality traits provided in the background section of the Player's Handbook
Simplify NPC creation and don't overcomplicate it

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

2024 D&D PHB WEAPON MASTERY BREAKDOWN: If you attack something, you're going to do damage Aug 05, 2024

Show notes

Unleash the power of your weapons with the new mastery system in the newest D&D 5E rules! Join us as we delve into the exciting new weapon mastery system and discover the endless possibilities it brings to the battlefield. From crushing hordes of enemies to perfecting your combat strategy, this system is sure to enhance your D&D experience. Prepare for epic battles and let your weapons reign supreme!

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss the new weapon mastery system in the 2024 D&D 5E rules. We cover the Cleave mastery, which allows for an extra attack against a second creature within reach; the Graze mastery, which deals damage to a missed target; the Nick mastery, which allows for an extra attack as part of the attack action; and every other option. We discuss the weapons that can have these masteries, when to use them, and potential synergies. We talk about the possibility of using minions in combat and how the weapon masteries can enhance gameplay.

We breakdown the changes made to two-weapon fighting, the action economy, and the impact on different classes. We highlight the potential power and balance issues with the slow and push properties, as well as the synergy between slow and topple. We express concerns about the potential for combat encounters to become unbalanced and frustrating for players.

We share our opinions on the weapon masteries in general and discuss the meta of the game, particularly the disparity between spellcasters and martial characters. We address a listener question about bringing martial characters up to snuff and the potential solutions to the imbalance.

Links

Takeaways

The weapon mastery system in the 2024 D&D 5E rules introduces new mechanics for martial classes.
The Cleave mastery allows for an extra attack against a second creature within reach.
The Graze mastery deals damage to a missed target, providing a consistent damage floor.
The Nick mastery allows for an extra attack as part of the attack action.
Weapon masteries can enhance gameplay and provide more options for character builds. The 2024 rules introduced new weapon properties, including light, push, slow, and topple.
The changes to two-weapon fighting make it more accessible for new players and simplify the action economy.
The slow and push properties have the potential to unbalance combat encounters and frustrate players.
The synergy between slow and topple can lead to powerful combinations and make melee combat less viable.
The hosts suggest that the slow property should have a saving throw or be reduced to a smaller speed penalty. The Vex weapon mastery is primarily for ranged weapons and is useful for setting up sneak attacks.
The choice between longbows and shortbows now depends on whether you prioritize slow or more damage.
Advantage has become more accessible in 5e, making Vex less impactful in certain situations.
The weapon masteries in the 2024 rules have shifted the meta and given martial characters a significant boost.
The hosts have mixed opinions on the weapon masteries, with some concerns about balance and power level.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

HOW TO GM ROMANCE W/ Sebastian Yūe and Friday Strout - Building Meaningful Relationships in TTRPGs Aug 03, 2024

Show notes

Today, we have a special episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast where we discuss a topic that is often overlooked in RPGs: romance. Join us as we sit down with Friday Strout and Sebastian Yūe to explore the intricacies of GMing romance in tabletop games. From flirting to intimate moments, we'll cover it all and provide advice for GMs on how to handle these delicate moments. Plus, we'll talk about the exciting Backerkit campaign for the upcoming book 'How to GM Romance' and how you can support it.

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss the topic of GMing romance in tabletop RPGs with special guests Friday Strout and Sebastian Yūe. They explore the different aspects of romance in games, from flirting to intimate moments, and the importance of consent and communication. The conversation also covers the mechanics of romance, including tracking relationships and handling disputes. The guests share their experiences and provide advice for GMs on how to approach romance in a responsible and enjoyable way. The podcast also talks about how you can support the ongoing Backerkit crowdfunding campaign for the book 'How to GM Romance,' which aims to provide GMs with tools and guidance for incorporating romance into their games.

Links

How to GM Romance on BackerKit
Friday Strout

Sebastian Yūe

Metal Weave Games
Previous RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

Takeaways

Romance in tabletop RPGs can cover a broad spectrum, from flirting to intimate moments, and can be tailored to the comfort level of the players.
Consent and communication are crucial when incorporating romance into games, and GMs should have open discussions with players to establish boundaries and ensure everyone feels comfortable.
The 'How to GM Romance' book provides guidance and tools for GMs to confidently run romance in their games, including advice essays, mechanics for tracking relationships, and scenarios for NPCs.
The book's mechanics are designed to be compatible with various game systems and offer options for different playstyles, such as diceless, GM-less, and solo games.
Tracking relationships and meaningful moments between characters can add depth and realism to the game, allowing for callbacks and character growth over time. Incorporating romance in TTRPGs requires consent and open communication among players.
Creating meaningful relationships between characters can enhance the storytelling experience.
Providing resources like romance trackers and character sheets can help players explore romantic storylines.
It's important to be aware of potential pitfalls and navigate them with sensitivity and respect.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

2024 PLAYERS HANDBOOK: The RPGBOT.Review Aug 01, 2024

Show notes

It's time to roll the dice and dive into the latest edition of the Dungeons and Dragons Players Handbook! With the release of the 2024 Rules, there's been a lot of buzz and speculation about the impact on classes, changes, and improvements. Today, we're diving deep into the changes and evaluating which classes come out as winners and which as losers in this new iteration. So grab your pencil, paper, and your favorite set of dice as we explore the exciting updates in the world of D&D. Let's get started!

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we review the 2024 Players Handbook for Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). The team talks about the improved art in the book and the reordering of chapters to prioritize learning how to play the game before character creation. We discuss the inclusion of suggested traits based on alignment and attributes in character creation. We discuss the changes to the barbarian class, noting that some subclasses have become more usable.

In this part of the episode, we go over the changes to various classes in the 2024 rules of Dungeons and Dragons. We cover the changes to the Bard, Cleric, Druid, Fighter, Monk, Paladin, Ranger, Rogue, Sorcerer, Warlock, and Wizard classes. We highlight the improvements and nerfs to each class, as well as the impact on subclasses and specific features. We have mixed feelings about some classes, while others are seen as winners or losers in the update. In this final part of the episode, we discuss the chapters on Origins, Feats, Equipment, Spells, and the Appendices in the 2024 D&D Player's Handbook. We also let you know our opinions on the changes and improvements made in the new edition. Finally, we answer a listener question about optimizing marshal characters in the 2024 rules.

Links

Player's Handbook (affiliate link)

Takeaways

The 2024 rules for D&D have been released, and the hosts provide an overview of the changes in the new Player's Handbook.
The art in the book has improved, with a mix of action-adventure and everyday life depictions.
Character creation now includes suggested traits based on alignment and attributes, providing a starting point for role-playing.
The artificer class is not included in the new handbook, disappointing some players.
The barbarian class has seen improvements, with some subclasses becoming more usable. The 2024 rules of Dungeons and Dragons bring changes to various classes, with some classes seeing improvements and others experiencing nerfs.
The Bard class remains mostly the same, with some quality of life improvements and a big upgrade at high levels.
The Cleric class receives small quality of life improvements, detachment of armor from subclasses, and improved features like Divine Intervention.
The Druid class gets offensive improvements for Moon Druids and quality of life improvements for Land Druids.
The Fighter class benefits from weapon mastery, allowing for new and powerful combat options.
The Monk class is considered the biggest winner of the 2024 rules, with improved features and more options for customization.
The Paladin class sees changes to Divine Smite, making it a spell and limiting its usage per turn, but gains increased tankiness.
The Ranger class receives mixed reviews, with an overemphasis on Hunter's Mark and potential challenges for Beastmaster Rangers.
The Rogue class is seen as better due to the ability to do more than just sneak attack on their turn.
The Sorcerer class experiences mixed changes, with improvements to some features but nerfs to powerful metamagic options like Twin Spell.
The Warlock class is a mixed bag, with some improvements and downgrades to certain features and subclasses.
The Wizard class remains largely the same, with minor tweaks to features and the ability to prepare more spells and change them on a short rest. The 2024 D&D Player's Handbook introduces changes and improvements to character creation and gameplay.
The chapters on Origins, Feats, Equipment, Spells, and the Appendices provide detailed information and rules for players.
The hosts discuss the impact of changes to feats like Great Weapon Master and Sharpshooter.
Marshal characters can now focus more on battlefield control and support, rather than pure damage.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

RPGBOT IS DELAYED! For a Special August 1st Episode at 9am Eastern /6am Pacific Time Aug 01, 2024

Show notes

QUESTS FROM THE INFINITE STAIRCASE - The RPGBOT.Review Jul 29, 2024

Show notes

On this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we review the surreal and mysterious world of Quests from the Infinite Staircase. This anthology takes classic D&D adventures and gives them a cosmic upgrade for fifth edition gameplay. Join us as we explore the infinite possibilities behind each door and discover the magic and wonder that awaits. So grab your Player's Handbook, Monster Manual, and Dungeon Master's Guide, and let's embark on a journey like no other. Are you ready for adventure? Let's begin!

Materials Referenced in this Episode

Quests from the Infinite Staircase (affiliate link)
Wikipedia

Other Stuff

Metro Detroit Gamers (the folks behind Winter Con)

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

JOHNN FOURRS's 5-ROOM DUNGEONS (Remastered) - Mastering the Art of Keeping Players on the Edge of Their Seats Jul 27, 2024

Show notes

On this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, Johnn Fourr joins us to talk about creating the ultimate dungeon crawl experience in your RPG adventures! Are you tired of running the same old dungeons that feel repetitive and lackluster? Look no further, because we have the perfect solution for you – the 5-room dungeon. In this post, we will delve into the key elements of a 5-room dungeon and show you how to use them to craft an epic and engaging adventure for your players. So grab your dice and let's explore the world of 5-room dungeons together!

Summary

5-room dungeons are a popular concept in tabletop role-playing games, first introduced by Johnn Fourr in his blog "Roleplaying Tips." They are a simple yet effective tool for dungeon design that can be applied to any genre or setting. In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, Johnn Four joins us to discuss what a 5-room dungeon is and how it can enhance your storytelling in your RPG games.

A 5-room dungeon is exactly what it sounds like - a dungeon made up of five rooms. However, it is much more than that. It is a framework for crafting a compelling and dynamic story within the constraints of a dungeon. Each room represents a key element of a traditional story, including the introduction, conflict, twist, climax, and resolution. By utilizing this structure, GMs are able to create engaging and well-paced adventures that go beyond the standard dungeon crawl.

While the 5-room dungeon is a useful tool for GMs, it is also a flexible one. The concept can be adapted and expanded to suit different playstyles and preferences. For example, some GMs may prefer a 7-room dungeon to allow for more complex storytelling, while others may use a 3-room dungeon for shorter adventures.

In addition to its versatility, the 5-room dungeon is also a valuable resource for session planning. By breaking down the story into five key elements, GMs can easily plan out each room and ensure a well-paced and engaging experience for the players.

5-room dungeons are a fantastic tool for GMs looking to enhance their storytelling in RPGs. By utilizing this structure and its five key elements, GMs can create compelling and dynamic adventures that keep players engaged from start to finish. So next time you're planning a dungeon crawl, consider using the 5-room dungeon framework for an immersive and memorable experience.

This episode was originally published September 8th, 2022

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

Johnn Four

@roleplayingtips
RolePlayingTips.com – Sign up for Johnn's newsletter for a free copy of the 5-Room Dungeon Compendim

RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

RPGBOT.Podcast S2E11 – Puzzles

Other Stuff

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

SECRET ROLLS - In Case Your Not Good at Lying to Your Players… Jul 25, 2024

Show notes

Are you tired of players constantly metagaming and ruining the suspense in your tabletop role-playing games? Look no further, because in this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we delve into the world of secret rolls and how they can add a new level of excitement and uncertainty to your game. Whether you're a Pathfinder 2 or Dungeons & Dragons 5e player, we've got you covered with tips and tricks on how to effectively use secret rolls in your game. So buckle up, and get ready to take your campaign to the next level with the power of secret rolls.

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss the use of secret rolls in tabletop role-playing games. We explore the mechanics of secret rolls in Pathfinder 2 and the lack of explicit rules for secret rolls in Dungeons & Dragons 5e. We highlight the benefits of secret rolls in preventing metagaming and creating suspense and uncertainty for players. We also provide practical advice for DMs on how to handle secret rolls, including paraphrasing information and lying when necessary. We discuss the use of secret rolls in knowledge checks and the potential for critical success and failure to reveal the outcome of the roll.

Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of secret rolls in enhancing gameplay and creating a more immersive experience. In this conversation, Tyler, Ash, and Randall discuss the use of secret rolls in tabletop role-playing games, specifically focusing on Pathfinder 2e and Dungeons & Dragons 5e. They explore the benefits and drawbacks of secret rolls in different aspects of the game, including knowledge checks, hide and sneak actions, and social interactions. They also provide tips for building a homebrew campaign, including using random tables for inspiration and creating encounters with multiple monsters, interesting terrain, and complications. Overall, they emphasize the flexibility and creativity that secret rolls can bring to the game.

Links

Cantrip Candles (Affiliate Link)

DnD 3.5 via d20srd.org

Sense Motive

DnD 5e via DnDBeyond

PF2 via Archives of Nethys

"Secret" tag

Previous Episodes

5-Room Dungeon

RPGBOT.net

Encounter Builder

Other Stuff

Takeaways

Secret rolls can prevent metagaming and create suspense and uncertainty for players.
Paraphrasing information and lying when necessary can help DMs handle secret rolls effectively.
Critical success and failure in knowledge checks can reveal additional information or lead to misinformation.
Allowing players to metagame a little when they critically succeed can enhance the gaming experience.
Secret rolls can enhance gameplay and create a more immersive experience. Secret rolls can add excitement and unpredictability to tabletop role-playing games
Using secret rolls for knowledge checks can prevent metagaming and enhance the role-playing experience
In hide and sneak actions, secret rolls can create tension and surprise for both players and GMs
Social interactions can benefit from secret rolls, allowing players to make more nuanced decisions and adding an element of mystery
When building a homebrew campaign, start with a setting or theme and gradually expand from there
Encounters should include multiple monsters, interesting terrain, and complications to make them more engaging and challenging

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely