Let's Make A Savage Worlds Character

Biggus Geekus

#Lifestyle #Games and Gambling #Joe Hardin and Randy Nichols #Joe Hardin #Randy Nichols

34:07

In this insightful episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Jay Crone, Managing Director and Venture Capitalist at Deloitte Ventures, to explore the firm’s strategic approach to corporate venture capital. Jay shares Deloitte Ventures’ investment thesis, focusing on supporting innovative Canadian startups at Series A and B stages across key sectors like cybersecurity, climate tech, fintech, future of work, health tech, and AI. Listeners will gain an inside look at how Deloitte leverages its vast network of 1,500 partners and 15,000 employees to source deals and add value beyond capital by helping startups navigate Deloitte’s complex ecosystem and access enterprise clients. Jay also discusses his diverse career journey—from government and investment banking to entrepreneurship and corporate VC—and how those experiences shape his investment philosophy. The episode delves into Deloitte’s due diligence process, the importance of founder relationships, and the firm’s strategic role as a co-investor. Jay highlights emerging trends, particularly the promise of vertical AI tailored to industry-specific needs, and shares his bullish outlook on fintech innovations like stablecoins and cross-border payments. He offers candid advice for entrepreneurs on risk-taking and aligning business vision with funding goals. This episode is a must-listen for founders, investors, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of corporate venture capital and innovation in Canada. Learn more about Jay's work at https://www.deloitte.com/ca/en/services/program/ventures.html Connect with Jay on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaycrone/ Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/ Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com…

about a year ago 1:01:26

MP3•Episode home

This week we make a Savage Worlds character!

211 episodes

Biggus Geekus

Let's Make A Savage Worlds Character

Biggus Geekus

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

This week we make a Savage Worlds character!

211 episodes

#Lifestyle #Games and Gambling #Joe Hardin and Randy Nichols #Joe Hardin #Randy Nichols

All episodes

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1
Big Geek Con 2 report 1:26:28

43 weeks ago1:26:28

1:26:28

This week we break down this year's Big Geek Con

Biggus Geekus

1
Let’s revisit High Level Play in D&D 1:49:16

43 weeks ago1:49:16

1:49:16

This week we discuss high level play yet again, but with more feeling.

Biggus Geekus

1
Nostalgia in D&D & the Hobby 1:10:44

45 weeks ago1:10:44

1:10:44

This week we discuss nostalgia and whether it is good for the hobby, or bad.

Biggus Geekus

1
Whom do you serve - the Player or Character 1:46:47

46 weeks ago1:46:47

1:46:47

We discuss the hobby's emphasis on the Player vs the Character

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1
Top 5 TTRPG Online discussion topics 1:26:30

48 weeks ago1:26:30

1:26:30

This week we discuss the top 5 ttrpg topics discussed online

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Gaming Opinions…yeah, we got ‘em! INTRO: 1:39:07

49 weeks ago1:39:07

1:39:07

This week its a grab bag of topics, including our opinions, your welcome.

Biggus Geekus

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Let's Play Savage Worlds 2:24:08

50 weeks ago2:24:08

2:24:08

Part one of our Savage Worlds live play!

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1
Savage Worlds Live part Two! 2:06:20

50 weeks ago2:06:20

2:06:20

This week we conclude our Savage Worlds adventure

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1
Let's Make A Savage Worlds Character 1:01:26

1 year ago1:01:26

1:01:26

This week we make a Savage Worlds character!

Biggus Geekus

1
Edition Wars: Choose & Perish! 1:23:22

1 year ago1:23:22

1:23:22

We discuss the value of Editions in TTRPGs and in D &D in particular.

Biggus Geekus

1
AI in Dungeons and Dragons 1:44:20

1 year ago1:44:20

1:44:20

This week we discuss how AI is used in our beloved hobby by WOTC/Hasbro and what we think about it.

Biggus Geekus

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How We Savaged our DnD Game 1:23:20

1 year ago1:23:20

1:23:20

This week we discuss our latest face to face gaming: Savage Worlds Fantasy Companion! We also poke at WOTC and the blue-hairs a bit.

Biggus Geekus

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Top Ten Reasons Why We Still Play Dungeons and Dragons 1:10:07

1 year ago1:10:07

1:10:07

This week we discuss the top ten reasons we (collectively) play Dungeons and Dragons.

Biggus Geekus

1
The Absolute Best D&D Monsters!!! 1:13:41

1 year ago1:13:41

1:13:41

This week we discuss and rank our top DnD monsters.

Biggus Geekus

1
Expectations inDnD 1:20:07

1 year ago1:20:07

1:20:07

This week we discuss expectations in DnD and other ttrpgs from both the player and DM perspective.

Biggus Geekus

1
Bloat: Fight, Flight, Or Just Right 1:35:32

1 year ago1:35:32

1:35:32

This week we discuss rules bloat in DnD and ttrpgs in general.

Biggus Geekus

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Magic Talks With Pat 1:32:00

1 year ago1:32:00

1:32:00

Pat is on once again to discuss magic in ttrpgs and a new game in development

Biggus Geekus

1
The Magic User Mended 1:02:25

1 year ago1:02:25

1:02:25

notes to follow

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Cabin Con 18 Review 1:18:19

1 year ago1:18:19

1:18:19

We discuss Cabin Con18! Also many lesser issues.

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1
Is That Monster Good Eatin'? 1:20:31

1 year ago1:20:31

1:20:31

This week we talk about what an adventurer might do with a monster corpse. Eating it is just one option. Notes to follow

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DnD has too much class ... It only needs two. 1:32:47

1 year ago1:32:47

1:32:47

This week we discuss why DnD only needs two classes ... maybe three. Tickets for Big Geek Con 2024 on sale now: https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2024 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Intra Party Strife 1:46:13

1 year ago1:46:13

1:46:13

notes to follow

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1
Hirelings & Henchmen – Tools of the Trade or just Tools? 1:34:48

1 year ago1:34:48

1:34:48

Episode 184 Streamed Live Tuesday March 26, 2024. (R) Catch-up from the past week This past Friday 3/22/24 we live streamed Horde Wars Ultimate Campaign – much death and much miraculous recoveries. The Priest/Acolyte was, as always, One and Done! Hirelings & Henchmen- Tools of the Trade or just Tools? https://oldschoolroleplaying.com/henchmen-and-hirelings-in-dungeons-and-dragons/ Henchmen: is a better grade of hireling. While money may still be a motivating factor for them these are permanent retainers or allies for the player characters. They are sidekicks. Advantages Gives use for the hard-earned coin. Allows for PCs to feel like big shots and build up to Domain play in an organic way and at lower or the lowest character levels. Challenges Who plays these NPCs especially if there is many of them? Additional burden on the DM??? How do you stop them from becoming fodder or “trap detectors”? How do you handle these characters leveling up? How long will the follow the characters? A PC is level 5 and a henchman is level 4…does the boss-worker dynamic change? At what point would it be ok to have a BBEG convince one of the hirelings/henchmen to turn on the party? Kill them in their sleep? How do they/did they work throughout the editions? Story Mechanics in TTRPGs? Bennies, Re-rolls, Narrative Control, Hero Points, Fail Forward, Success with a Cost …others? Yes, no, maybe, always good, sometimes good , never good? How do they aid play? How do they hinder? Big Geek Con 2 September 20-22, 2024/$30 for those who are 13+ Parents must be with their children at all times. We are not baby sitters. Four Points by Sheraton Saginaw4960 Towne Centre Road, Saginaw, MI 48604 +1 989 790 5050 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also we are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Magic items, What are they good for? 1:47:14

1 year ago1:47:14

1:47:14

We talk about the magic items in our games and what, if any, good they are. Big Geek Con 2024 tickets on sale!: https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2024 $30 for 3 days! Sept 20 - 22 Four Points by Sheraton Saginaw 4960 Towne Centre Road Saginaw, MI 48604 https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2024 Our Links: PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Advancing Your Game 1:49:44

1 year ago1:49:44

1:49:44

This week we talk about advancement in your game, and how you might change it up. We also discuss Dune movie presentations. So watch out for spoilers! Big Geek Con 2024 tickets are on sale! https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2024 Support Our Show! If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also we are on all the social, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
Monster Mash 15: Aberrations 1:33:04

1 year ago1:33:04

1:33:04

Its a Monster Mash this week as we talk about aberrations! Aberrations are creatures that cannot be easily grouped by physical description. These beings are often amorphous and alien. From the lowly mimic to the mighty beholder these nightmare creatures are often found underground or in the watery depths, seeking to devour or enslave. Sometimes both. Inspired in large part by the Cthulhu mythos, aberrations were part of early Dungeons and Dragons and have a place in many game settings and home tables. BECMI/Rules Cyclopedia: beholder,that’s it. 1e: Beholder, Mind flayer, Ixitxachitl, and a lot more https://dungeonsdragons.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_Advanced_Dungeons_%26_Dragons_1st_edition_monsters 2e: https://adnd2e.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_Monsters 3.x: https://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/3e_SRD:Aberration_Type 4e: https://dungeonsdragons.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_Dungeons_%26_Dragons_4th_edition_monsters 5e: https://www.dndbeyond.com/monsters?filter-type=1&filter-search=&filter-cr-min=&filter-cr-max=&filter-armor-class-min=&filter-armor-class-max=&filter-average-hp-min=&filter-average-hp-max=&filter-is-legendary=&filter-is-mythic=&filter-has-lair=&filter-partnered-content=f Big Geek Con 2024 Tickets on sale: (Sept 20 - 22) https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2024 If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, we are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Online DnD Madness 1:51:25

1 year ago1:51:25

1:51:25

This week we discuss many of the odd topics surrounding DnD spewing forth from the internet Big Geek Con 2024 tickets on sale: https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2024 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Fixing DnD Part One 1:53:01

1 year ago1:53:01

1:53:01

With the upcoming release of 6th Edition by WoTC and our ongoing desire for OUR DnD, we bring you some things you can to do to freshen up the old girl. This will be a recurring topic, offering new ideas or changes to previous ideas under this topic. This may (likely will) eventually depart from the old game and birth a new one. Big Geek Con 2024 tickets on sale: https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2024 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials and video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Gygax vs Arneson: Battle Royale 2:05:57

1 year ago2:05:57

2:05:57

Episode 178 Streamed Live Tuesday February 13, 2024 Main Topic: Who is the true Dungeon Master…Gary or Dave? A review of two documentaries: 1.) Secrets of Blackmoor: A Tue History of Dungeons & Dragons https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9301886/plotsummary/?ref_=tt_ov_pl 2.) The Dreams in Gary’s Basement https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10621206/ Both movies painted their respective subjects in a good light Blackmoor for Mr Arneson’s part and Dreams for Mr Gygax. However neither treated the other’s subject in a bad light, letting the ages old schism remain in the past. Both mostly focused on the positive contributions each paid to our hobby. Secrets of Blackmoor went into great detail about how the tabletop RPG hobby sprung from war gaming, largely though Dave Arneson’s efforts. Dreams focused on Gary Gygax’s similar journey detailing the rise and fall of TSR and its eventual purchase by Wizards of The Coast. In light of these two documentaries, it seems the hobby owes it existence to both of these visionaries, though it is uncertain as to who gets top billing. At this point it hardly matters. Modules or Roll Your own? Modules/Pre-packaged Adventures Advantages: all encounters and stats done for you, plot ready to go, read-n-run (???), nice maps & visuals, and can dovetail with your own ideas(can even steal them from modules) and they can be fun to read. Disadvantages: may not fit your group, too railroad-y, costly($?), may need to shoe horn the current campaign/party situation into the adventure( Slavers series??/), politicization of games could creep in and long adventure paths/modules can be a lot to read and prepare even though it is all laid out for you. Rolling Your Own Advantages: easier to prep(theoretically), can react on the fly w/o worry of “messing” up the adventure, do not have to spend time reading, allows you infinite freedom and you can tailor it to your group from the start. Disadvantages: must make your own maps & prep time/write stats( ?), may need to use monster books/charts/random tables and “wing’in it” can result in non-sensical situations ( “ an aboleth, that doesn’t make any sense!”), inspiration can run dry, Big Geek Con 2: get ticket at - https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2024 September 20-22, 2024/$30 for those who are 13+ Parents must be always with their children. We are not babysitters. Four Points by Sheraton Saginaw 4960 Towne Centre Road, Saginaw, MI 48604 +1 989 790 5050 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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When one Dungeon Master is not enough. 2:00:05

1 year ago2:00:05

2:00:05

Tickets for Big Geek Con on sale: https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2024 This week we discuss situations when you may need multiple DMs. Also the supposed Tencent issue.

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Internet Meet Karen and Disheartening Dweomers 1:58:57

1 year ago1:58:57

1:58:57

notes to follow

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Divide, Divide, Divide The Hobby! 1:53:32

2 years ago1:53:32

1:53:32

Episode 175 Streamed Live Tuesday January 23, 2023 Main Topic: Divide -Divide-Divide The Hobby! https://youtu.be/L9pDhntGoVY?t=30 (sample of the song “Divide” by Disturbed) Bravo Mr. Boivin: https://youtu.be/u20Wuj5gMY0 What is wrong with just accepting the natural division of folks in the hobby? (i.e., BrOSR, 4D, Basic DD 1st-3rd level, 3.X epic tabletop skirmish, Sparkletroll Barista D&D, etc.) Let them do what they want and screech about being Elite, who cares? Shouldn’t we all just try to be excellent to each other? Maybe we should try to be excellent in our chosen playstyle? Let’s be elite in our own preferred play style, if possible, whatever that may be. Can Big Geek Con begin to be the play we attempt to achieve excellence in our style of play? This may include some Gatekeeping, but only as it pertains to folks trying to horn in on your fun by bringing in some other style you do not enjoy or maybe do NOT want at your table. We can and should still nerd rage but try to pursue this excellence, if nothing else just for ourselves. If it helps others then so be it. Plus, it’ll be fun to debate who are the true elites of TTRPGS! More Settings & Adventures and Less Systems! Inspired by a Facebook post I commented on and then was commented on by the following: Bitty Jen(username on Facebook) “Respectfully, I’ll pass. As mentioned earlier, there are more than enough rulesets/variants/clones/combo-rewrites..etc etc But good luck with yours. What the community really needs are competent writers of modules/campaigns who don’t take themselves too seriously, and don’t try to reinvent the wheel with stupid gimmicks.” New systems are not bad may be but less valuable to some these days than new settings/adventures/modules/Pop-in Principles/System neutral. Randy: “I do not deny the gamer fascination and love of new systems/games, but I’d like to see ore settings a la Savage Worlds business model over WoTC and many others endless array of supplements then Rinse&Repeat for each new edition. System neutral is ,for me, superior since it will never require updates/new editions and will be evergreen. Experienced DMs would find more value from Adventures/Modules/Settings than new systems in general if they have a long running campaign…yes, I am speaking for them. Of course, some GMs like other game systems for cannon fodder. Now gamers, in general, cannot resist the new shiny, but in the realm of the OSR, it has been said many times...who needs another clone retro or otherwise? What about Monte Cook’s Arcana Unearthed/Evolved style ‘systems? Too much like retro-clones, I guess. But the monetary drawback is 1 DM – 1 purchase…how to monetize such settings and adventure modules to the players? What could a player be offered besides a new system?” Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con 2 September 20-22, 2024 Friday Noon-11pm, Saturday 8a-11pm, Sunday Noon-6p??? Considering get-together at the attached Uno’s Friday & Saturday 9pm till close to play, wind down, meet-n-greet. Location: Four Points by Sheraton Saginaw: 4960 Towne Centre Road, Saginaw, MI 48604 +1 989 790 5050 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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What are the OSRs? 2:04:42

2 years ago2:04:42

2:04:42

Episode 174 streamed live Tuesday January 16, 2024 Main Topic: What are the OSR’s of today? Old School Renaissance or Old School Revival A little History: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_School_Renaissance A couple of primers: A Quick Primer for Old School Gaming (Matt Finch and Mythmere Games 2008): https://ia601802.us.archive.org/28/items/a-quick-primer-for-old-school-gaming/A%20Quick%20Primer%20for%20Old%20School%20Gaming.pdf 2. New OSR Primers ( Lumpkin, Milton, & Perry ): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VSa6hSvQAlyvkTfmqhix1Z2EoFJPR-CP/view The Different Flavors of the OSR today https://osrsimulacrum.blogspot.com/2021/12/a-historical-look-at-osr-part-v.html “It was simply a rebirth of interest in old-school Dungeons & Dragons, specifically as its original designers intended it to be played. Its adherents had never entirely disappeared, but it was certainly a playerbase on life support for the longest time. Around 2007 began a renaissance, one that manifested in a variety of ways but at its heart was firmly rooted in mechanical compatibility with TSR-era D&D and a sharing of certain key design principles that went with those editions and the way their designers intended them to be played…” The main four variants: Classic OSR: The original wave. Has both compatibility and principles. OSR-Adjacent: Some principles, some compatibility. NSR: Principles, but not compatibility. Commercial OSR: Compatibility, but not principles. OTHERS: FKR: Free Kriegsspiel Revolution Numbers don’t add up to a game. If the fiction fits, try it. You play worlds, not rules. https://followmeanddie.com/2021/10/02/fkr-free-kriegsspiel-revolution/ Great video by ben Milton of Questing beast for overview: https://youtu.be/d4lvrC3ZBzM BRoSR : https://youtu.be/JIEW2r6deXs “AD&D 1st edition with absolutely no house rules, do every single thing Gary told you to do." Also patron play / Braunstein where many domain level characters that would be NPC are run by the players" More annoying links: 1) https://jonmollison.com/2022/11/10/brosr-principles-a-primer/ 2) https://bdubsanddragons.blogspot.com/2021/11/bdubs-essential-guide-to-patron-play.html 3) https://bdubsanddragons.blogspot.com/2021/07/jeffrogaxian-time-keeping-vs-variable.html Live Character Creation Let’s create a character with as many random rolls as possible using Horde Wars! Random Geek-it ude Big Geek Con 2 Dates: September 20-22, 2024 (Times TBD) Four Points by Sheraton Saginaw Our Links: Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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The BrOSR is Stupid ... and Timepeeping 1:59:29

2 years ago1:59:29

1:59:29

Episode 173 Streamed Live Tuesday January 9, 2024 Main Topic: What time is it? Timekeeping in D&D What is the value of time keeping? Is it worth the effort? Abstract or precise units of time? Which version of D&D does this in the way you most prefer? What game does this in the way you most prefer? Campaign Level View: events in the world/region/city/base town, Holy days for religious orders, special astronomical events, magical confluences, others? Character Level View: spell durations, round durations, disease/poison duration, ration usage, light sources, aging process, stamina, rest & recuperation, and others? Consider: https://www.reddit.com/r/osr/comments/17qab2z/an_attempt_at_strict_time_keeping_records/ Too extreme? Adventure Level View: Dungeon mapping, dungeon crawling (real light sources/torches. Equipment usage, overland travel, time limits/pressure, etc/other? Player Needs: Time to play, time in between turns, breaks in play. Etc/other? BRoSR: https://bdubsanddragons.blogspot.com/2021/07/jeffrogaxian-time-keeping-vs-variable.html https://bdubsanddragons.blogspot.com/2021/11/bdubs-essential-guide-to-patron-play.html When Gaming Preferences become true Biases When you learn/see/try a new game, what sorts of preconceived notions/preferences may keep you from enjoying them or enjoying them fully? How might they influence how you play the game or even if you would even try to play it? 1. Genres: fantasy (dragons and wizards), historical, sci fi, horror, superhero, mixed genres, other? 2. Settings: homebrew vs published 3. Mechanics: die types, diceless, cards, built-in safety tools, others? 4. Companies: woke vs non-woke, TSR vs WoTC, other? 5. Editions: 1e vs 2e vs etc any game 6. Simulation vs Emulation vs Narrative As well as Trad games vs indie vs dungeon crawler’s vs OSR vs Modern 7. Play styles: RP-1st/2nd/3rd person, Adventure: sandbox, AP, modules, others? 8. The stereotypes associated with the game or the players of the game? Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con 2 Meeting Jan 15th to determine exact dates of BGC2. Likely September 20-22, 2024 Four Points by Sheraton Saginaw Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

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Gaming Resolutions and More! Potpourri with Patrick Once Again! 2:00:56

2 years ago2:00:56

2:00:56

This week we discuss a variety of topics, including New Year's Gaming Resolutions, with Patrick of Pointy Hat Games.

Biggus Geekus

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D&D Discussions With David 1:42:30

2 years ago1:42:30

1:42:30

notes to follow

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Horde Wars Basic ... And Beyond! 2:08:48

2 years ago2:08:48

2:08:48

Episode 170 Streamed Live Tuesday December 19, 2023 Main Topic: Horde Wars Basic and Beyond with Blackwall Games We discuss Horde Wars with Todd and Nate of Blackwall Games. Horde Wars is a fantasy tabletop RPG that leans into a medieval European tropes to inform its design. This is mixed with other influences to give it a unique feel. It also relies on a combination of classes and skills that give players many combinations to choose from. Many topics were covered: Where does the Basic game stand? What about the advanced version? How does Horde Wars facilitate campaign play? With so many games on Guilded, how do you keep motivated? Are you and Nate both running playtest groups? Are you and Nate going to Cabin Con #2 How do you design monsters? How do you design encounters? d12 days of Horde Wars! The Christmas Holiday Special giveaway! We have given 9 away so far…Last 3 tonight!!! Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Fantasy Top Five 1:38:55

2 years ago1:38:55

1:38:55

notes to follow

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A Chaos Of Topics 1:52:03

2 years ago1:52:03

1:52:03

Notes to follow

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What makes a Challenging Game? 1:51:35

2 years ago1:51:35

1:51:35

What makes a Challenging Game? Episode 167 Streamed Live Tuesday November 28, 2023 Main Topic: What makes a Challenging Game? CR vs random tables vs encounters to fit the ‘story’/adventure. When does challenging become a meat grinder? How can mechanics inform the challenge of a game? Some examples for comparison: DnD OSR : fairly random, expect that the ‘wilderness’ could produce almost any creature, no skill checks to challenge Player characters- proficiencies allowed for this to a lesser extent in later editions, combat dangerous to engage and sometimes players need to have superior planning and careful with resources. DnD 3.X +: CR becomes a bigger thing, skills significant in 3.X, less so in 4e and 5e but big push to challenge PCs not players, combat usually lands in favor of the PCs especially if player skill is high enough to build a powerful PC. 13th age: skills more loosely defined via backgrounds, short of significant imbalanced encounter design PCs almost always win, very predictable combat if follow the patterns shown by the adventures provided by the game, Savage Worlds: whole game is skill based, Pcs are heroes, but combat can be swingy Rolemaster: critical tables cause the game to lean toward swinginess Do you prefer games that are run so that they challenge the character more than the player or vice versa? Some additional thoughts on magic systems Joe: Using 1e ADnD magic as a base, add the following: Spell/Magic/Mana points Use an activation check (may replace a save*) This is a alternate to having a magic phase in combat: Divide spells into categories: Invocations (combat cast), Incantations (may be interrupted) , Ritual (not for combat) Attack roll instead of saves as much as possible, one roll even for AOE. Use saves for spells that control or deceive, such as charm, sleep, etc. Consider Entangle: An attack roll represents the plants initial grasping of targets. Anytime someone enters after the initial casting gets an attack roll as well. Magic attacks are based on caster’s magic stat with bonuses at higher level. Miss will mean the same as a save did. Randy: Prefer spells be re-written completely & would like more evocative names. Coarsal’s Conflagration (common parlance- Fireball )- think of it as a nod to Vance. Might combat spells be automatically cast ( i.e., no disruption), but debuffed a bit so that they do not dominate. EX: Lightning Bolt: less damage, but still affect multiples. Or some spells could be offensive, but be incantations such as: Fireball (maybe increase damage), Haste ( ritual version [affects a group of folks for s specified time amount maybe in rounds or minutes]/ incantations version [cast at the spur of the moment, maybe in combat/maybe not, only affects one person and duration is but a couple rounds maximum]) So, some spells could be cast in a variety of forms : combat, ritual, incantation or mix Rituals take anywhere from Minutes to years in preparation, collection of components, performance of rites, and casting time. However, these should be highly useful and/or powerful/game changing. Random Geek-itude The d12 Days of Horde Wars- Christmas Holiday Special giveaway! 12 PDFS given away over the next 3-4 weeks. We will need your email ,but will determine the winner based upon random roll Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Combating Combat - Building The Mechanics 2:14:41

2 years ago2:14:41

2:14:41

Episode 166 Streamed Live Tuesday November 21, 2023 Main Topic: Combating Combat - Things to consider as you design a combat system for a fantasy TTRPG. What kinds of feel or experience do you want combat to give? Frenetic, fog of war, cinematic/heroic action, gritty blood-n-bone combat, other? Emulation vs. Simulation Need to decide if BALANCE is important, and HOW to handle it Complexity can often stall the game. How “old-school” do you go? (all attacks do d6, weapon vs. armor, speed factor, phases) How should the offense and defense capabilities interact? D&D: AC, attack roll, damage rolls vs HPS Armor as DR, wounds vs vitality Simplified comparison: combat skill vs defensive skill/opposed rolls. Include a separate Dodge/Parry/Block/Evade mechanic? How many actions does a character get per turn? And how does it affect combat Movement: double moves, running, AOO’s, withdrawals Attack: melee, range, spell, number of attacks, Other types: speaking, opening a door, interacting with an object. Do actions effect initiative order? Character types and limitations if any in combat. Armor and weapon limitations. Combat skill limitations. Who gets to be good at what? Can wizards wear armor and cast spells? Can warriors sneak around? Spell disruption (OSR vs 3.X vs 13th age) Fear of Magic dominance How does the initiative system interact with combat? Is it turn-based? Side initiative ( OSR ), individual ( 3.X, Savage Worlds ), # actions based on speed ( GURPS/Hackmaster/Shadowrun ), He who starts the fight goes first/free form, highest roll goes first then around the table in clockwise order (horde Wars) How important is it? OTHER considerations: Setting and Rules often feed into each other. If the game is mainly about combat, then perhaps the combat system should be robust and detailed. If the game is meant to be about the story that gets told around the table, then maybe the system needs to be more fluid with interchangeable pieces to increase or decrease complexity in the system. Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Setting Up A Great Setting 1:58:52

2 years ago1:58:52

1:58:52

notes to follow

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Designing the All-Important Magic System 2:08:15

2 years ago2:08:15

2:08:15

notes to follow

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Fear Biggus Geekus 1:12:29

2 years ago1:12:29

1:12:29

notes to follow

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Joe V. Randy D&D Edition War Round 2: 1e vs. 2e 2:11:01

2 years ago2:11:01

2:11:01

notes to follow

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Joe v. Randy - A Battle in the D&D Edition War 1:59:31

2 years ago1:59:31

1:59:31

Notes to follow

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Loot and Edition Wars in DnD 1:53:20

2 years ago1:53:20

1:53:20

Notes to Follow

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When Enough Is Enough In DnD 1:34:41

2 years ago1:34:41

1:34:41

Shownotes to follow

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Big Geek Con #1 Report 2:07:55

2 years ago2:07:55

2:07:55

Episode 158 Streamed Live Tuesday September 26, 2023 Main Topic: Big Geek Con 1- Post Shenanigans Report People to thank Workers/helpers: A special nod goes to Randy’s wife & K. Scott Appreciation to Joe Hardin and His wife, L. Neumann, Martenson, Greg T., Larry E., and Fladey ( for donations to raffle) as well as David Guyll (donations for raffle- extreme number of miniatures). The GMs: Fladey, Larry N., Larry E., Martenson, Kelley, Tim, and Benny S., Darth Thiek (Commander -style tourney), Halcyon, J. Demo, Nathan Lindy, and Geoff S. Special Kudos: Ben R. playing with Bennie. Bennie gave away his prize to a friend Far travelers: Darth Thiek, Fladey and guest, Abub. Nathan Lindy: ran Horde Wars like a boss! Business end Set up Advertising Setting up GMs and sessions How did we do? # of Attendees Friday: 34 Saturday: 47 Games played by BG and favorite things Randy - games played: Modern War by young 13 year old (his own homebrew), Cheating Death- by Tim Scott : TPK and a mighty screw up on my part, and 13th age by Larry E.- enjoyable ,but more guffaws by moi. (very tired) Randy’s Favorites: Loved my theme of not reading the dice right, loved my kids’ game(great ideas and cool thing), watching Horde Wars tables fill up non-stop, & inspired by my running of my module(very first session), and meeting the various dudes from the chat on this show. Joe - games played: Rifts Coalition Wars, Extreme Xcrawl, Horde Wars, Dungeon Crawl Classics, Palladium Fantasy, and 13th Age Joe’s Favorites: Meeting folks from the live stream, you guys ROCK! Getting some gaming in after a long break. Food: hot dogs, pulled pork, chips, cookies, soda, water, candy bars. Good/Bad/Ugly Suggestion Box: Sound buffering Credit card payment option on site Stagger early games Late start Friday/end Sunday AC/Fans needed Place merchandise closer to entrance Advertise at local games stores People buying weekend pass should get two “raffle” tickets (or more incentive) If possible buy stuff to raffle Game sign up online if possible Tabletop events and dates set earlier 45 minute registration pre-game Floating GM each slot Encourage folks to show up ten minutes before games More variety of diet pop Add a space on sign-in sheet for email and to text notifications Kids play place How about Big Geek Con 2? Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Handling PC Death 1:22:32

2 years ago1:22:32

1:22:32

Episode 157 Streamed Live Tuesday September 19, 2023 Main Topic: Handling PC Death (a revisit) Should it be on the table at all? How much does it suck to have your PC to die mid-session? Types of Death? Fair (Player poor choices or fairly rolled combat deaths). VS Unfair (GM Fiat/unfair targeting of a PC/1 save or die) Classic D&D solution: Raise Dead/Resurrection Basket full of PCs (old school Dark Sun) How is Death handled in Games outside of the fantasy genre? How has your opinion on PC death changed/evolved/stayed the same since EP7? Death Mechanics You’ve seen in a game? Squishing Gaming Myths - Roll Players vs Role-Players Is there a divide? Does it matter? Why or why not? Can the two gamers mix? Random Geek-it ude Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con: September 22-23, 2023, at the Four Points Hotel in Saginaw, MI. This coming weekend is THE weekend! Tickets sold day of show: $40 whether you come Friday(22nd) or Saturday(23rd). Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Planescape Reimagined 2:03:51

2 years ago2:03:51

2:03:51

Episode 156 Streamed Live Tuesday September 12, 2023 Mental Illness as badge of Honor https://dotesports.com/dnd/news/first-canonically-autistic-dnd-character-arrives-in-the-book-of-many-things Main Topic: Planescape Reimagined The Great Wheel Cosmology: https://srd.dndtools.org/srd/environment/planesDescriptionsAndCosmology.html Randy’s Big IDEA: The prime (Prime Plane) is prime real estate throughout the Multiverse and all the other planes want it. Why? It is the only plane that is not dedicated to a single idea or alignment. It has desirable resource (its residents) and it is not primarily dedicated to a single idea or alignment. Sigil: City of Doors is run by a Great Council of Dominant representatives of non-deity level leaders from the planes of the multiverse They are in a constant political dance called the Kreigstanz in an attempt to outmaneuver each other. This keeps them from mounting a full assault on the prime material plane. Of course, many of these powerful individuals will do a little ‘invading” secretly or sometimes not so secretly from time to time. Lady of Pain: head of the table- a powerful entity who can keep out powerful immortal creatures due to the nature of the City of Doors. She has a seemingly endless horde of warriors called Dabus who do not speak, but only act. They might be constructs or a race of mute beings, no one knows for sure because as they die their bodies dissipate into nothing or meld into the streets of Sigil. The Factions: these could be human/PC race led organizations that attempt to win favors from the Great Council, the Lady of Pain, or perhaps to just keep an eye on the dealings of these planar entities who would wish to dominate the Prime Material Plane. The PORTALS: These exist as the only way to access Sigil and only the Lady and Dabus have control to their access at least officially. Joe’s Big IDEA: Skip Sigil and keep the focus on the PCs’ homeworld as much as possible. - PCs’ home world has occasional invaders from the wider multiverse, maybe other prime worlds - Invasion forces vary in strength - Forces are after a valuable resource (make one up lazy!) - May be a single force, maybe multiple - May be independent forces, maybe coordinated - Can easily be used to springboard a campaign - Can be used as a one shot “Stop The Invaders” adventure -- get to ground zero -- battle to penetrate a stronghold -- find and eliminate the leader/close portal (not necessarily connected) Squishing Gaming Myths: D&D is NOT a GOOD TTRPG. It is just the most popular. It doesn’t represent magic well. Levels are dumb and skills are where it’s at. It is just an adventure game, no roleplaying support. It doesn’t work past level 6/10/12 It is too complicated. Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con: September 22-23, 2023, at the Four Points Hotel in Saginaw, MI. “Do Not try that at a Small Con!” We got some good help working on the non-gaming stuff. Tickets sold day of show: $40 whether you come Friday(22nd) or Saturday(23rd). Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Resistance Is Futile 2:04:38

2 years ago2:04:38

2:04:38

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Moving Goalposts: Exp Gains in DnD 2:03:57

2 years ago2:03:57

2:03:57

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Gaming Facts or Fiction? 1:58:37

2 years ago1:58:37

1:58:37

Episode 153 Streamed Live Tuesday August 22, 2023 Shout out the Geeapaloozapodcast Two of our Cabin Con buddies have started a Twitch podcast on general gaming: https://www.twitch.tv/geekapaloozapodcast Main Topic: Gaming Facts or Fiction? Old DnD Research: https://www.dndresearch.com/blog/2020-survey-result-update-1-demographic-of-ttrpg-players#/ RAW vs RAI vs Homebrew Rules : Is it a big deal at most tables? https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?398993-On-RAW-RAI-amp-RAF Gamer Funk: are gamers are a smelly bunch? Banned! : https://www.theregister.com/2019/04/05/stnky_gamers_banned/ Con Crud: If you go to a convention will you likely come home with the plague? https://publichealthinsider.com/2018/08/31/gaming-cosplay-and-con-crud-oh-my/ Gamers have low social skills: Can gamers interact socially outside of the table? https://digitalcommons.pace.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1199&context=honorscollege_theses Gamers are smart: Does the average gamer have an IQ that is above average? Video gamers article: https://technave.com/gadget/Study-suggests-that-PC-gamers-have-highest-average-IQ-22139.html TTRPGs have been and is still a boy’s club: Are there any women in the house? Video games: https://techpenny.com/roleplaying-gamer-demographics-trends/ TTRPGs: https://blog.gitnux.com/tabletop-gaming-statistics/ D&D Weirdness: Leveling Up Old school: Gain XP then gain level after you train.. New school: Gain XP then gain level & mid-adventure or in-between encounters Level Caps on non-humans- too weird. But having a level cap on Mortals seems reasonable Everything increases at the same time Defeating opponents/gaining treasure to get stronger. Training – Use a mentor who advises and occasionally offers insight, and adventure seeds. Level caps: Make them setting/table specific How to get exp: add in goals based exp (some examples in different versions) Everything increases: have to redesign the game on some level to make this change Random Geek-itude: Report from Big Geek Land “Cry Havoc, and remember, you just ‘Try That at a Small Con!” ( Thanks Venger!) 1 Month away folks! Suggestions: Kids 13 and under free with an adult (max two kids per adult) and adult must accompany the child during the whole time. Tickets sold day of show: $40 whether you come Friday(22nd) or Saturday(23rd). Tragedy at Taigon’s Falls at BGE: https://biggeekemporium.com/product/tragedy-at-taigons-falls/ Big Geek Con Discord thread for games: https://discord.com/channels/758861997697138759/1142771211298938890 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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So ... You All Meet In A Bar 1:56:58

2 years ago1:56:58

1:56:58

Episode 152 Streamed Live Tuesday, August 15, 2023 Special Guests DM Blackwall and DM Nate Horde Wars Basic is available on BGE Campaign Analysis: So, you all meet in a bar. Should Pcs be generated together (“session zero”) or individually/separately? Should the Pcs know each other? Many ways to start a campaign (the first adventure): In a tavern with a mysterious stranger. Hired as Caravan guards. In media res. Mission Impossible- your mission if you choose to accept it. No reason. Module or homebrew…just begin. Full sandbox: players choose their starting place and see if the PCs meet up, maybe via some sort of event? Jazzing up these beginnings: Mysterious meeting with hermit sage outside the city. PCs are mercenaries on a merchant ship defending against Pirates. PCs are the only survivors of a battle on a hilltop. PCs begin at the entrance of … (insert module or adventure) PCs are lead to an alchemist who turns out dead ... D&D Weirdness: Randomness Why are we in the RPG sphere so attached to randomness? The need for some element of failure/success The random elementbrings excitement. Removes arbitrary choices. Combining success/failure with severity of effect: Rolling a hit then getting 1 damage on a random roll, for instance? Lean into randomness to improve the experience: Make the success roll pivotal so it influences the effect, like the way crits work. Dice Superstitions Unlucky/lucky dice and players. Don’t touch another gamer’s dice. Put new dice through rituals to make them roll well Must have dice of one-color set. Roll with specific dice every time. Random Geek-it ude Big Geek Con: September 22-23, 2023, at the Four Points Hotel in Saginaw, MI Big Geek Adventures: Tragedy at Taigon’s Falls is done and will be posted on BGE soon! Horde Wars Basic: https://biggeekemporium.com/product/horde-wars-basic/ Find Horde Wars at Grand Con: https://www.grand-con.com/exhibitors-2023 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Save or Suck in your RPGs 2:11:16

2 years ago2:11:16

2:11:16

Notes to follow

Biggus Geekus

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Deities In Your RPGs 2:00:02

2 years ago2:00:02

2:00:02

Deities of Your Campaign Episode 150 Streamed Live Tuesday August 1, 2023 Main Topic: Deities in Your Campaign Pantheons or Monotheistic settings. Using the real world mythologies in your game. Creating your own. Using a game’s settings deities as written. No deities To what extent should they take front stage in a campaign? Can you call down the gods? What are the eternal consequences of deities in a campaign? DnD Weirdness: Adventuring Part 2 - The Campaign World’s Adaptation to adventuring Adventuring Companies Traditional organizations sending out adventurers Folk referring to “adventurers” and understanding it as a thing Adventurers become the pioneers/colonizers and/or troubleshooters 150th episode Giveaway Give away one ticket to BG Con 1 on September 22-23,2023. Random Geek-it ude: Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con: September 22-23, 2023, at the Four Points Hotel in Saginaw, MI. – be there or be square! Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Wishes in DnD 2:00:34

2 years ago2:00:34

2:00:34

As you WISH - An analysis of wishes in D&D Episode 149 Streamed Live Tuesday July 25, 2023 Main Topic: As You Wish Inspiration: “Best Wishes: Guidelines for giving and getting” by G. Snyder Best of Dragon Vo. 5 pp.58-59 1.) The Wish Spell/Effect Throughout the Editions https://dumpstatadventures.com/blog/2019/1/5/deep-dive-the-wish-spell 2.) Memories of the use of the Wish Spell, Wish granting items or creatures from D&D -how common? -creature/deity granted -ring of wishes and other magic items -word lawyering -results 3.) Your thoughts on wishes now. -how common? -who or what grants them? -what is the power level of the wish? DnD Weirdness Adventuring in DnD, adventuring itself can produce several odd things in the game world that you can lean into … or shy away from: 1. Quests. Folks have custom quests just for you! 2. Gear economy. At some point the pcs find more gear than they can use. 3. Profession of Adventurer. The party seeks out monsters to kill. Adrenaline rush or death wish. Random Geek-itude: Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con: September 22-23, 2023, at the Four Points Hotel in Saginaw, MI. Starting with EP150(?): we will be giving away two free for Big Geek Con until they are gone. Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Portals! 1:53:52

2 years ago1:53:52

1:53:52

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Biggus Geekus

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DnD Weirdness 2:17:30

2 years ago2:17:30

2:17:30

Episode 147 Streamed Live Tuesday July 11, 2023 The Main Hobby is Busted Baldur’s Gate 3 video game: https://news.yahoo.com/baldurs-gate-3s-commitment-d-190000993.html Cohors Cthuhlhu Game - https://youtu.be/96Eb7ZFgtVE We need a true alternate hobby culture…fight the power! Main Topic: DnD Weirdness Exploring the weirdness of Dungeons. That they exist at all. Old school dungeons don’t stay empty If you lean into the last point, empty dungeons don’t stay empty, it can serve the atmosphere of your game world. What fills the dungeons? How is it filled? Why do dungeons not stay emptied? Answering these questions, some or all, can be a fun way to add depth and perhaps a dit of quirkiness to your game. Some related points: Are the monsters attracted? Are they spawned? Does this impact the surrounding area? Can the attraction/spawning cause overflow? Where do these monsters come from? Randy is convinced he is not an really an OSR player/DM. There are many things about OSR style play to like. Less number of spells Encumbrance Resource tracking ZERO to HERO However there many things to not like: 1 HP PC XP charts w/insanely slow progression Spell segments/weapon speed THACO Vancian Magic Random Geek-itude Big Geek Con: September 22-23, 2023, at the Four Points Hotel in Saginaw, MI. Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Retro Review: Best of Dragon Vol. 2 part 2 2:17:05

2 years ago2:17:05

2:17:05

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Biggus Geekus

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Retro Review: Best of Dragon Vol. 2 2:11:04

2 years ago2:11:04

2:11:04

We go into detail with Best of Dragon vol 2, detailed notes to follow.

Biggus Geekus

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Monster Mash 14: Slimes and Oozes 1:59:37

2 years ago1:59:37

1:59:37

Episode 144 Streamed Live Tuesday June 20, 2023 Main Topic: Monster Mash #14 - Slimes, Oozes, etc. Over the various editions of Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) there have been a few standard monsters in this category. They are generally amorphous, unintelligent, slow moving and are more like hazards than creatures. What makes them creatures is they grow, likely reproduce, and “attack” by some form of acid. In essence, they try to break down their victims and absorb them. These creatures have not organization or culture. Those attacked are done so opportunistically, not from any type of desire or motivation. Something lands on or near them and they attempt to digest it. The standard creatures are: Black Pudding, Gray Ooze, Green Slime, Ochre Jelly, Yellow Mold, and the Gelatinous Cube. The gelatinous cube is a little different from the others as they use pseudopods to attack and can actively move to a target. Later, Violet Fungi, Shriekers, and Gas Spores were added to this category as “fungus creatures”. These are a bit more complex, but still unintelligent. We discuss: 1) Their differences over the editions 2) Memorable encounters 3) Alternate takes or uses in encounters Random Geek-itude: Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con: September 22-23, 2023 Four Seasons Hotel in Saginaw, MI. – be there or be square! NEW: 1) Kids 13 and under free with an adult (max two per adult) adult must accompany the child 2) Tickets will sold day of show: $40. 3) EP150 give away few tickets for Big Geek Con. Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
Monster Mash 13 : Here There Be DRAGONS - Part 2! 2:07:57

2 years ago2:07:57

2:07:57

Episode 143 Streamed Live Tuesday June 13, 2023 A short discussion of “fauxSR”, being an online disagreement about the OSR, with guest Ryan David of Nerdcognito Main Topic: Monster Mash #13: Here there be DRAGONS Part 2 We pick up from the discussion on ep142 and begin with “ecology”. How do dragons fit into the world and what considerations should be made. These considerations can be political, territorial, existential, etc. We also discuss some of our favorite dragon encounters, and some alternate ways to use them in your campaigns. Should the concern be with how much they eat? How do they fly? Is it wrong to present tribute? How rare should they be? Bestial or Intelligent? Is it really all that it’s cracked up to be? Best of Dragon Magazine Vol. #1: Review and highlights…perhaps even hit the table of contents. Usefulness of such magazines back in the day and today? Where are they now? Opinion on articles? Any specific one you liked? Those who tried to replace them: Gygax Magazine, Kobold Quarterly, etc? Current Day: Mad Scribe magazine - #2 soon to be out with the article from yours truly. Random Geek-itude Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con: September 22-23, 2023 at the Four Winds Hotel in Saginaw, MI. – be there or be square! Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/ Big Geek Con 2023: https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2023…

Biggus Geekus

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Monster Mash 13: Dragons! 2:23:58

2 years ago2:23:58

2:23:58

Shownotes to follow

Biggus Geekus

1
Monster Mash 12: Lycanthropes 2:04:33

2 years ago2:04:33

2:04:33

Shownotes to follow ...

Biggus Geekus

1
What Is The Player's Job At The Game Table? 2:07:21

2 years ago2:07:21

2:07:21

Episode 140 Streamed Live Tuesday May 23, 2023 Main Topic: What is the Player’s job at the game table? Talked about the job of the DM and a few ways it can be approached. Let’s do the same for the folks on the other side of the screen. Don’tbe a jerk. Learn the rules related to your character. Build characters that get along well in a group environment. Try to do things that are not just fun for you. Know what you want to do on your turn (especially/mainly in tense moments such as combat). Pay attention during such moments. Try to fit in with the group’s style. If not, then kindly excuse yourself. Realize your PC isn’t the star and could bite the bullet. There is plenty of extra paper to make a new PC. Do NOT try tobreak the game with your uber-PC. Don’t overly gimp your PC to become a drain on the group. Don’t be overly cautious…engage the scenario/challenge/situation. If the game is long term, try to get the $ to invest in a copy of the rules. Do NOT cheat! Campaign Analysis: Homebrew vs Published/pre-made World. Played Hyperborea, used pre-made adventure -thoughts on the session. Random Geek-itude: Report from Big Geek Land https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2023 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus Click on the Rant link in live chat on Rumble! On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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What is the DM's job? 2:03:54

2 years ago2:03:54

2:03:54

Episode 139 Streamed Live Tuesday May 16, 2023 Special Note: Big Geek Con 2023 tickets on SALE! https://tabletop.events/conventions/big-geek-con-2023 Main Topic: What’s the DM’s job? Relevant links: https://gnomestew.com/how-different-rpgs-define-the-gms-role/ https://gnomestew.com/game-master-referee-storyteller-whats-in-a-name/ https://www.escapistmagazine.com/judging-the-game/ https://www.escapistmagazine.com/its-not-your-story/ https://dwelleroftheforbiddencity.blogspot.com/2020/11/the-dm-as-storyteller-versus-dm-as.html https://gnomestew.com/storyteller-or-facilitator-two-approaches/ https://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/Role-Playing_Game_Manifesto_(DnD_Other) https://www.enworld.org/threads/rather-long-dm-as-judge-vs-dm-as-storyteller-in-5ed.321691/ DM Roles: World Builder Adversary Storyteller Judge The Judge referees the interaction of the PCs with the environment. This comes from D&D’s wargaming roots. In the old days wargaming rules were a lot less cut and dry and in addition to the two players there was a judge who would not only make sure that both sides followed the rules but who would make rulings when people did things that went outside the rules. This is the same thing that a DM as Judge does, make sure that the players follow the rules and make rulings when they do things that fall into the grey areas of the rules or completely outside them. The Storyteller crafts a story to share with their players. The player characters are the protagonists of the story as the storyteller guides them through it. Through play, the characters experience the story. His job is to make that story unfold and guide the players through it. The players are to play their characters and move through the story. Random Geek-itude Big Geek Con: Friday & Saturday 9/22-23,2023 Tickets: $30 (both days) Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Campaigns, Cabin Con CC17 and Horde Wars 2:20:54

2 years ago2:20:54

2:20:54

Episode 138 Streamed Live Tuesday May 9, 2023 Special Guest: DM Blackwall & N. Lindy(?) Main Topic: Campaign Analysis: Campaign types - advantages and disadvantages Our first effort: Hyperborea by Jeffrey Talanian of North Wind Adventures: https://www.hyperborea.tv/ Types - Railroad vs Sandbox vs A Mixture Also Procedural and Amusement Parks What type is our Hyperborea game going to be? A Cabin Con Moment: Re-cap CC17 May 4-7, 2023 We had a great time! Lots of napping between games as we are a bit older and not in a rush. Much gaming was had by all: 13th age, Deadlands, Warp Shell, GI Joe, Fallout, Blade Runner and Horde Wars! There were also some board games, and outdoor games (limited due to weather) and even Ping Pong. We had our traditional bonfire and Werewolf session on Friday which is always a lot of laughs. To celebrate Cinco de Mayo, we had a pitch-in taco dinner. One attendee smoke pork for everyone – YUMMY! Report from Big Geek Land BGE gets an update for physical products. Gift Cards coming soon! Big Geek Con will be on Tabletop Events for ticket sales September 22-23,2023 Four Seasons at Sheraton in Saginaw MI If we get 10+ rooms booked we get a larger space to game. Got several folks lined up to be there and run games potentially including the Horde Wars dudes! Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. Direct Support:PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Monster Mash #11: ORCS & More! 2:12:06

2 years ago2:12:06

2:12:06

Episode 137 Streamed Live Tuesday May 2, 2023 Anvil: Iron Age Magazine #1 https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/anvil-iron-age-magazine-issue-1/x/27459496#/ Pinkertons of the Coast Update: https://news.yahoo.com/magic-raid-wasnt-first-time-162558008.html Main Topic: Monster Mash #11 ORCS & More! Orcs, goblins, bugbears, hobgoblins, kobolds, and gnolls through the editions. Some say they are misunderstood. Some say they are stand-ins for the “other”. Honest research into the origins of our shared hobby will reveal that these monsters, for monsters they are without doubt, are formed from bits and pieces of myth and legend and glued together with the imaginings of Gygax and company, and tempered by the literary greats such as Tolkien and Lovecraft. Neither nuance nor depth was not given to these vile creatures as they serve the game as opponents to the player characters. Torn from real-world myth, these bestial humanoids have served as in-game punching bags for decades. Created by demons, these inherently evil villains serve to sow chaos and destruction on the side of darkness generally opposed by humanity and its allies. The embodiment of all of our worst sins, these can remind us of real-world monsters giving us a way, in game, to struggle against and hopefully to defeat them. Though some details have changed though the years and editions, the essence has changed little. The possible exception is in recent years in the newest edition with its slack-jawed adherence to ideological inclusivity. Barring the more recent silliness the general structure is: Orc: The foot soldiers Goblin/Kobold: Small vicious tricksters Hobgoblin/Bugbear/Gnolls: larger enforcers/leaders/scouts Also discussed: The humanoids’ place in an ecology and alternate takes on the foes. Cabin Con is Upon Us Randy: (2) 13th age games: Level 7 “Nimielle’s Hope (The Egg)” Campaign Continues. Level 1: Into the Great Wide Open - Shared campaign “rules” - 1) can only level @ CC and 2) level every 3 sessions. Deadlands “mega-adventure”: for a posse of 4-5 Seasoned characters Joe may do a sandbox/use our incomplete Dungeon23 materials Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con Only change from last week: Tickets to be sold on tabletop.events Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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DnD Myth Busters 2:10:31

2 years ago2:10:31

2:10:31

Episode 137 Streamed Live Tuesday April 25, 2023 Main Topic: DnD Myths The Game Itself Satanic panic No board non-sense Just playing pretend. Too many esoteric tomes to try to master to learn how to play. Killing things and taking their stuff…that’s all there is to it. White Supremacy RAW is the only way RAI is a thing The Players Nerds no girlfriends, all smart No girls allowed. Plays in their mom’s basement especially if an adult. Stinky gamer Non-inclusive LARPing as an excuse for Questionable Underground Meetings The Haters D&D is a kid’s game Real Gamers move on to better games It is just hack-n-slash 400 Subs Give-Away Congrats to BigBadRPGfor winning the paperback version of ICRPG Master Edition Quick Hit- Hard target: TPK’s - Yea or Nay??? Fair play or unfair? Does the campaign have to end? Fudge the dice? Should set one up on purpose? Big Geek Con Details: $30 for Friday & Saturday 9/22-23,2023 (30 people minimum) Guestroom Rates for September 22-23, 2023 (Discounted for 10 or more) King $104 – discounted from $124. Double Queen $114 – discounted from $144. Four Points by Sheraton 4960 Towne Centre Road, Saginaw, MI 48604 11 miles from MBS International Airport 42 miles from Flint Bishop 116 miles from Detroit Metro International Airport. TICKETS TO BE SOLD ON BGE! Shameless Plug Time: Please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Monster Mash 10: Elementals 2:09:47

2 years ago2:09:47

2:09:47

Shownotes to follow

Biggus Geekus

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OSR Glut - Time to Move On? 1:41:26

2 years ago1:41:26

1:41:26

Episode 134 of our SHOW, and the date is Tuesday April 11,2023. (J) Main Topic: OSR Glut…time to Move on OneDnd (now just 5th edition revised in 2024) is looking to be leaning to virtual RPGPundit: https://youtu.be/VqL9bi0bdlA?t=603 (time stamped) Dungeon Masterpiece (old one) : https://youtu.be/4wlSCwp_JVA Forget the OSR? Oversaturated? https://retroroleplaying.com/2011/08/long-list-of-old-school-games-and-clones/ Another clone: Shadowdark, Swords & Wizardry, etc? Legacy Gamemastering commented: https://youtu.be/qBK1ya0atac Can the masses be captured by OSR clones? Don’t we need something new? We have leave woke companies alone: Hasbro/Wotc, Paizo, Goodman games, Pelgrane press 2nd ed 13th age: https://robheinsoo.blogspot.com/2022/08/13th-age-2e-same-core-team.html Is this not the time to strike? DnD Movie: Does streaming it support WoTC/Does it even matter? Is watching the DnD movie via streaming putting $ in Hasbro/WoTC’s pocket? Do/Should you care if it’s good? Doesn’t look like it’s is going to break even: https://boundingintocomics.com/2023/04/03/dungeons-dragons-honor-among-thieves-predicted-to-be-a-flop-despite-better-opening-weekend-box-office-haul-than-originally-predicted/ Shadiversity https://youtu.be/a8yOIB8-9VI Critical Drinker : https://youtu.be/xFmLlpsD6EM Greg Gillespie(author of Barrowmaze): https://youtu.be/MaelKOjzA3o DungeonCraft(Prof DM): https://youtu.be/whWtgc3PwTo A Cabin Con Moment - Less than one month out. - What are we doing about it? - A couple of new faces - How many games/DMs do we need? With 20 people total and 3 slots/day - 4 games of 5 players each day Th-Sat and Sunday one slot. - Survey Results: How many games(adventure) do you usually prep for CC as a DM? How many times do you like to run that game(adventure) over the 4-day weekend? How many slots per day do you like to play? How many slots in total would you like to play over the four days? Would you stay to 4p-6p to play a 2nd slot on Sunday? Segment #4: Random Geek-itude Call Ins and Emails Report from Big Geek Land Big Geek Con: September 22-23, 2023 Saginaw MICHIGAN Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Toys or No Toys in your DnD Game 2:18:05

2 years ago2:18:05

2:18:05

This week we have special guests DM Blackwall and Nathan Lindy of Horde Wars (upcoming) to discuss using minis and terrain in our tabletop games. We also discuss Advancement and getting older. - Shownotes upcoming

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Aves of Good and Evil - The Eternal Dialogue 2:06:30

2 years ago2:06:30

2:06:30

Episode 132 Streamed Live Tuesday March 28,2023 Main TOPIC: Alignment in RPGs Definition: ethical and moral perspective Alignment for role playing games was introduced in Dungeons and Dragons back in the late 1970s and is used in many modern games as well. Players use it as an aid to help in playing their characters consistently. DMs and GMs use it for same purpose NPCs and monsters. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alignment_(Dungeons_%26_Dragons) In DnD the 9 alignments are a kind of short-hand, used instead of what can be a convoluted code or moral description. However, the description of these alignments can be vague. Many prefer Palladium’s alignments and the do’s and don’ts lists it provides as a more concrete system. https://imgur.com/gallery/DmKvb - Should alignment have mechanical effects? - Tracking character’s alignment…is it a worthwhile activity? - What about character classes or archetypes being required to have a certain alignment? - Favorite System for alignment or would you rather just drop it/ignore it all together. Alignment Languages(DnD): Lawful good, lawful evil, chaotic good, chaotic evil, and neutrality also have common languages spoken by each respectively. One can attempt to communicate through the common tongue, language particular to a creature class, or one of the divisional languages (lawful good, etc.). While not understanding the language, creatures who speak a divisional tongue will recognise a hostile one and attack. - General thoughts - Do they add value? - Do they seem kind of silly? Campaign Report: Hyperborea We are planning a play through of the game. we are familiarising ourselves with the rules and will give bi-weekly updates on the game focusing on how we like the basic mechanics, the setting, the play of certain classes/races, and the overall grooviness of the tone of the game. Comments on where we are on our read-throughs. Quick Hit - Hard Target: DMPC’s - Yes/No/Maybe Hard No Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email:thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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I Don’t Want No Stinkin’ D&D 2:15:43

2 years ago2:15:43

2:15:43

Episode 131 Streamed Live Tuesday March 21, 2023 Main Topic: 10 games You can and Should Play if you don’t want no stink’in D&D! Randy’s List: (will populate asap) Joe’s List: Hyperborea Shadowrun Dungeons and Delvers Stars Without Number Mutants and Masterminds Chronicles of Aeres Rifts Earthdawn Scarlet Heroes Castles and Crusades We briefly discuss each one listing its merits and sometimes a flaw or two. Joe’s list has many he hasn’t played yet, but is committed to playing them each over the coming year. The purpose is to highlight the vast array of games available that haven’t the baggage of WOTC and have some support or extended game lines. Also these games have online communities or fan bases that can answer question or just provide a new group of friends. We had such a great response from live chat that we kicked our next segment to next week: To Be Continued: Alignment in roleplaying games Random Geek-itude Call Ins and Emails: Joe finally resolved his sound sharing issue and we listened to John of the Red Dice Diaries podcast ask us what we think of the newest version of Hyperborea. Its in our list of games to recommend, so there is that. Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Monster Mash #9 - NPCs as Monsters 2:11:40

2 years ago2:11:40

2:11:40

Episode 130 Streamed Live Tuesday March 14, 2023 (National Pi Day!) Main Topic: Monster Mash #9 - using NPCs as Monsters 1) NPCs & their most common types, characteristics & powers throughout the editions. OD&D: Page 15 Book III dungeon encountered Monsters (NPC’s?) all couldto see in the dark BECMI/Rules Cyclopedia: RC p.155 and humanoids by alphabetical order 1e & 2e: alphabetical order- Monster description discusses options 3.x: build as needed, but as Pcs with more limited gp equivalent gear: large table in DMG with sample low medium and higher-level NPCs 4e: by alphabetical order, but in MM special examples…don’t build as PCs 5e: at the back of MM are certain NPC archetypes with particular powers don’t’ build as PCs…Appendix B- Stats for NPCs 2) Ecology & influence of monster in the campaign world & how best to use them How do they fit? What role as foes? Do PCs eventually reach a level where NPCs are the best and challenge? 3) Named NPCs in IP Canon: Should you use these NPCs in your game? Game IP: Elminster, Drizzt, Mordenkainen, etc Fiction IP: Gandalf, Darth Vader, the Joker, etc NPC generators: 0e/RC: https://agathokles.pythonanywhere.com/chargen 1e/2e: https://www.dwarvenautomata.com/leveled-npc-generator/ 3e: https://dnd3rd.sourceforge.net/ and resource page: https://forum.rpg.net/index.php?threads/3-5-d-d-3-5-npc-generator-and-other-tools.479319/ 4e: https://donjon.bin.sh/4e/random/#type=npc 5e: https://www.thievesguild.cc/npc/ 4.) Our favourite examples Derdrom- Morded backwards- tricky npc wizard…more just a one trick pony Ravenlock - first NPC friend Beauregard – NPC lord from Elysium. A thorn in the PCs side for years. Segment #2: Quick Hit- Hard Target - The Paladin and Alignment Lawful A-hole or Lawful Stupid? General Champion of “choose an alignment” or “some concept” Do they have to be LG? Random Geek-it ude Mad Scribe Magazine #1 by Mad Scribe Games: Issue #1 on sale now at DriveThru(boo!), Walmart, Amazon and B&N. Available in pdf and print. Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BiggusGeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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Controlling The Narrative 1:42:16

2 years ago1:42:16

1:42:16

Episode 129 Streamed Live Tuesday, March 7, 2023 Weekly WOTC Crap Wrap-Up : Emasculating the Men ... obviously. Main Topic: Controlling the Narrative in D&D and other Games GM tool/responsibility Is concern for the Narrative just story time? Is there value to giving opportunities for motivation to the PCs and NPCs. Thinking a bit about protagonists and antagonists. Sharing with the players: Narrative control pitfalls and advantages Running short on time…narrating an ending to a session or one-shot pitfalls and advantages Games that use extreme narrative elements such as Fate, 13thage, etc. pitfalls and advantages Quick Hit/Hard Target: What about Multiple Dms Within one campaign? Shared world? Can there be a rich narrative in this type of game? Running parallel campaigns within the same world? Running different settings/systems/campaigns all together Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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MASTER YOUR GAME PREP | DARK SUN PROBLEMATIC | PLAYING MULTIPLE PCS 2:39:18

2 years ago2:39:18

2:39:18

Episode 128 Streamed Live Tuesday, February 28, 2023 Weekly WOTC Crap Wrap-Up: Dark Sun is problematic, according to WOTC's Kyle Brinks https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/dark-sun-problematic Main Topic: MASTER YOUR GAME PREP - Randy has a game prep Masterclass! His evolution through the editions of play from little more than drawing a dungeon to 6 - 8 hrs for one session of play. Randy has been on all sides of this aspect of running a ttrpg. Quick Hit/Hard Target: Multiple PCs: Hirelings, shared pool of characters, stable of characters - all explored. Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7…

Biggus Geekus

1
The Final Word: Race vs Species vs Ancestry 2:05:47

2 years ago2:05:47

2:05:47

Episode 127 Streamed Live Tuesday, February 21, 2023 The Red Room Redacted: The Red Room has been booted from DriveThru RPG following posting their book "Men", in a fit of inconsistent application of "Standards" ... or some such. BGE was down due to a tech error AND potential hosting shenanigans. We hope we do not have to move hosts AGAIN. (up the next morning) Main Topic: Race/Species/Ancestry, Which words is best. The FINAL word is Race. It is what has been used for decades and brought no harm to anyone, despite rumors to the contrary. Other words simply add nothing of value. Quick Hit: Split the party, is it a good idea. Final verdict: It depends... obviously. Our Links: Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7…

Biggus Geekus

1
Monster Mash Special - Homebrewed Monsters 2:17:57

2 years ago2:17:57

2:17:57

Episode 126 Streamed Live Tuesday February 14, 2023 Nerdcognito: https://www.nerdcognito.com/ Weekly WoTC crap round up: State of the Hobby- the DnD movie, playing 5e & MtG, etc. Are most folks still that concerned about the issues? Jenny Di - https://twitter.com/TheBasicExpert1/status/1623383430963810304?t=JBaz148u05SXj8vjG6-twg&s=01 DM’s not wanted https://youtu.be/yFaAHc8Qye4 Monster Mash Special: Homebrewed Monsters With all the available monster books why would you bother? Does changing one or two aspects make a beasts seem new How careful should you be to keep verisimilitude, or does it matter? Do homebrew monsters make the game better? Do you prefer standard or homebrewed beasts? How about a world where every creature is completely homebrewed? What good and bad experiences have you had with homebrewed monsters? Our Hobby: Ways we participate? And Why? Playing games (mostly TTRPG’s), talking about playing games, watching/listening to youtube/podcasts about gaming, participating in media, attending conventions, or organizing your own, consuming other media related to our hobby: live plays, watching movies, watching videos, and reading books, talking about gaming, creating games and game products. Random Geek-it ude: Report from Big Geek Land Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
TTRPGs vs Other RPG-like Games 2:06:13

2 years ago2:06:13

2:06:13

Episode 125 Streamed Live Tuesday February 7, 2023 Be sure to check out Nerdcognito: https://www.nerdcognito.com/ WoTC Trash Again x2 D&D Beyond shut down for a while this past weekend https://youtu.be/_n0zdSCzkB8 WotC’s Kyle Brink says White Men can’t leave the hobby fast enough Diversity and Dragons: https://youtu.be/yVjRJdBXA4M Mr. Max Boivin: https://youtu.be/UtywtAOWRLE Done with WoTC TTRPGs vs Other RPG-like Games With Special Guest: Patrick Demo of Pointy Hat Games Board Games : Talisman, Heroquest (V1.0 and 2.)0, Descent, D&D Adventure System: (Wrath of Ashardalon, Castle Ravenloft etc), Runewars , Gloomhaven Video Games: Goldbox Games, Legend of Zelda, Baldur’s Gate (original), Mass Effect, Skyrim Card Games: Expedition( https://expeditiongame.com/ ), Pathfinder Adventure Card Game ( https://paizo.com/pacg ) Do these games adequately re-create the TTRPG experience? What audience do these serve? Are they worth the effort when compared to a true TTRPG? Do you want or need miniatures for any of them? How well do you like them, ie, the categoriesof games? Which are your favorites and why? Random Geek-it ude: Report from Big Geek Land Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also we are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
Dm Blackwell and Horde Wars | WOTC and more OGL1.0a stuff 1:50:56

2 years ago1:50:56

1:50:56

Episode 124 Streamed Live Tuesday January 31, 2023 Main Topic: DM Blackwall and Horde Wars D12 System Questions/Comments Related to the Game Where does the game fall on the OSR-Modern-Indie scale? Is it simulationist/gamist/narrativist? High/low Fantasy or grim gritty? P.2 Rule zero without using rule zero is alive in this game it seems? Why the d12? Auto success on a 12, but no auto fail? The clockwise initiative system…why did you go with this? What is the purpose of the Afflictions and its comparison to Hit Points? 1 Healing Potion per day…why this choice? Death in 1d4 rounds once you hit zero hit points. I like it. Have you thought of not letting players know how long they have? That is, roll behind the screen…my preference. Simplified Creature types, but more granular damage types. Why the difference? Object Vulnerability Example of play P.11. Seems you have some level of abstraction say with encumbrance and creative solutions seems to be encouraged in the way players might solve challenges. Why level 12 cap? OGL 1.0a, Yeah, we won!!!...so what now? Lots of opinions by youtubers: https://youtu.be/VUBinw9H2DA (Professor DM) https://youtu.be/IlzdFy0vB8k (RPGpundit) https://youtu.be/Df6K65pHO9Q (Tenkar) https://youtu.be/URY3fhm6R18 (Diversity & Dragons) https://youtu.be/HX5iZ5r8hyE (the dungeon delver)...and many others. In the end: So what? Not enough? Back into their loving arms(should you?) Is the creative commons going enough? Folks like us aren’t going back. I’m glad for the creators whose livelihood is saved but they should take the time to pivot Random Geek-it ude Report from Big Geek Land BGE,Dungeon 23, BGA or BGCon Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
What do we want from a Dungeon? 2:12:07

3 years ago2:12:07

2:12:07

Episode 123 Streamed Live Tuesday January 24, 2023 Tired of OGL stuff yet? Recent news and thoughts: DnD Shorts https://youtu.be/J4kGMsZSdbY T-shirted Historian https://youtu.be/jP2JLWPX_LI Done with WoTC so maybe we should just move Dungeoncraft https://youtu.be/4oV9Fnkyyfc Grim's Project: https://postmortemstudios.wordpress.com/2023/01/24/opendnd-public-domain-roleplaying-panza-draft-1-0 Main Topic: What do we want from a Dungeon? We used Dungeons by Central Casting to inspire the creation of a dungeon (Thanks to Ryan David @nerdcognito and Max @legion of myth for the suggestion) From both player and DM perspective, what makes for a good dungeon? Even with a Mad God, how random/funhouse before it loses its verisimilitude? Random monsters: many? few? with a theme? Traps and tricks: many? few? Mega? Past dungeon experience: successes/failures Mapping the dungeon - details or broad strokes Flavor text: more or less? How do they fit in the campaign world? Using Central Casting: Dungeon - not sure it’s my cup of tea Random Geek-it ude Call Ins - One from John at Red Dice Diaries re: Hyperborea RPG (tech fail) Joe’s Birthday he is 56 … the old geezer! News for theEmporium Giveaway 2.0- the Double Whammy Giveaway! Guess the number of official 3.5 game books by Wizards of the Coast that Randy currently owns in hardcopy. Consider: supplements, sourcebooks, or modules. ( 28) Winner gets TWO of the following fabulous prizes: C&C’s Monsters & Treasures by Troll Lord Games (the good guys)/5th printing Cardboard heroes Castles- the Keep by SJ games (sorry)in the shrink Legends & Lairs: Mythic Races – by Fantasy Flight Games Star Wars: Edge of the Empire RPG (BETA) by Fantasy Flight Games Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Grim Jim and the Weasels of the Coast 2:33:44

3 years ago2:33:44

2:33:44

Much Ado about D&D w/special guest Grim Jim Episode 122 Streamed Live Tuesday January 17, 2022 Shout out to Nerdcognito! Twitter: @Nerdcognito, https://www.nerdcognito.com/ Merch at Big Geek Emporium! https://biggeekemporium.com/big-geek-merch/ Main Topic: Much Ado About D&D w/Special Guest- Grim Jim Grim details his background from picking up Fighting Fantasy adventure books at the tender age of 8 to running his own independent game company Postmortem Studios: https://post-mort.com/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/XnrTdF8scX0 Blog: https://talesofgrim.wordpress.com/ Grim’s latest is Wightchester: Prison City of the Damned PDF - https://tinyurl.com/ynan34m9 Print Book - https://tinyurl.com/35vvc2be We then get into some history ofthe OGL and discuss the latest shenanigans at Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast. Related Links: OGL 1.1 Paizo Speaks https://youtu.be/b4aTpzsU388 https://youtu.be/Jobead_Nq8A DnD Beyond Post https://youtu.be/LTXkxy2KjXU https://youtu.be/51tZquziqF0 DnDBegone Critical Role "Response" https://youtu.be/7y-nITUilGM Random Geek-it ude Dungeon 23 Report Taigon’s Falls Update - Draft 1B sent to my editor!!! Giveaway 2.0- the Double Whammy Giveaway! ( thanks to the generosity of Martenson!) The 2nd Giveaway of the Year Announcement…well sort of You can win your choice of TWO of the following fabulous prizes: C&C’s Monsters & Treasures by Troll Lord Games Cardboard heroes Castles- the Keep by SJ games Legends & Lairs: Mythic Races – (DnD 3e) by Fantasy Flight Games Star Wars: Edge of the Empire RPG (BETA) by Fantasy Flight Games Guess the number of official 3.5 roleplaying game books by Wizards of the Coast that Randy currently owns in print. Consider only: core books, supplements, sourcebooks, and modules. Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Our Links Website Store PayPal Ko-Fi…

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1
Dump Dungeons and Dragons 2:09:38

3 years ago2:09:38

2:09:38

Episode 121 Streamed Live Tuesday January 10, 2023 Main Topic: Done with D&D With the OGL 1.1 “leaked”, where does that leave the true fans and indie creators in our hobby? Where does that leave many traditional publishers who use OGL 1.0 for their works? It seems to us that we must look to new games and new ideas in the hobby and away from Wizards of the Coast whether or not the new “stance” pans out to be true or not. We cannot trust that WOTC will not pull the rug out from all of us to bolster their flagging profits. DMDave – https://www.patreon.com/posts/76837590 ReferencedGizmodo link: https://gizmodo.com/dnd-wizards-of-the-coast-ogl-1-1-open-gaming-license-1849950634 Many have tackled this topic: Diversity & Dragons: https://youtu.be/4LYgW-tM0vg and https://youtu.be/PzoHOZ8Xt7k RPGPundit: https://youtu.be/TJ1ZlGOV804 T-shirted Historian: https://youtu.be/k5347CLcq6M Professor DM: https://youtu.be/yydxzM8p4RI Tenkar: https://youtu.be/e6mTl6eInA4 Segment #3: Random Geek-it ude Report from Big Geek Land BG Emporium News Progress on Tragedy at Taigon’s Falls (BG Adventure) Deadline to D.Gyull is Sunday January 29, 2023, God willing. Deadline to BGE: February 30,2023 Rifts Session 2 REPORT First Giveaway of the New Year! Guess the number of official Planescape products that Randy owns, and you can win your choice of one of the following fabulous prizes: Answer is 30 C&C’s Monsters & Treasures by Troll Lord Games /5th printing Cardboard heroes Castles- the Keep by SJ games in the shrink Legends & Lairs: Mythic Races – d20 supplement by Fantasy Flight Games Star Wars: Edge of the Empire RPG (BETA) again by FFG Winner: Martenson in chat Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, we are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
Why Learn A New Game?!?!?!? 2:07:24

3 years ago2:07:24

2:07:24

Episode 120 Streamed Live Tuesday, January 3 2023 Main Topic: Learning New Rpgs This new years we plan on on covering more tabletop RPGs that aren’t Dungeons and Dragons How many times do you play a game before you know if it is for you? Do you prefer to watch a ‘how to” video on Youtube or elsewhere? be taught by an experienced play/gm? dive in with friends and see what happens? read it yourself and teach it to your fellows at the table? Should everyone commit to buying the book after a few sessions? The games on the list for 2023: Rifts Dungeons and Delvers Castles and Crusades Dungeons23 – Our Take We hope to be using Dungeons by Central Casting to create a dungeon over many segments. (Thanks to Ryan David @nerdcognito and Max @legion of myth for the inspiration and suggestion) Loose Background – The Mad God created this dungeon. The god’s name is unknown as is the reason why he made this dungeon in the first place. It is a dangerous place which attracts adventurers as well as its denizens. It also has a strange propensity to “acquire” rare treasures from across the world. Random Geek-it ude Report from Big Geek Land New happenings for the Emporium, Big Geek Con, and Randy’s adventure. Randy will have an article posted in Mad Scribe Magazine - https://www.patreon.com/user?u=80594713 SJW staff writer for Troll Lord Gamesinsults OSR and twitter mob loses their collective mind at the game company’s response. Related videos: https://youtu.be/HzRgqrOjKLw Diversity & Dragons https://youtu.be/3QeAu_B_LU8 more Diversity & Dragons https://youtu.be/q-A0oixzbU0 RPGPundit Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com | Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
2022 ... Year In Review 2:15:38

3 years ago2:15:38

2:15:38

Year End Review Episode 119 Streamed Live Thursday, December 29, 2022 Main Topic: Highlights Of The Year Deep Dive into 13thage Lots of Guests: Bruce Lombardo, T-Shirted Historian, Shadow of Shadow And Son, Legacy Gamemaster, Patrick (Potpourri with) Monster Mash episodes began Revisited some topics: Stats/Attributes, High Level, OSR, Alignment, Ending a Campaign The Satanic Panic Contests: 100th episode giveaway: Grimtooth’s Ultimate Trap Collection, Riddle of the Sphinx Old Skool- WEGS RPG Episode 100 Controversies: The Woke, ONEDND, OGL 1.1, other WOTC mistakes Comic Book Woes: sexuality changes, Isom #1, DC and Marvel missteps, few movies shows worth watching: Spider Man and Black Adam Retro Reviews: White Plume Mountain, Ravenloft Hopes for Next year Biggus Geekus changes? Big Geek Emporium Big Geek Con Random Geek-it ude Report from Big Geek Land Red book Dungeons and Delvers from NerdCognito EP#154 Rifts Session 1: SSDI campaign/Rules questions OGl 1.1 – Doomed? https://youtu.be/lKCOr6Ag0XA Our Links: PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
Ten Words You Cannot Use In Gaming 2:24:16

3 years ago2:24:16

2:24:16

We discuss at least ten words folks wag their fingers at. And why they are good for your game. In addition, we take a tour of other "problematic" nerd issues. master, slave, barbarian, savage, oriental, exotic, race, species, gypsy, no Links to resources discussed: Articles: https://screenrant.com/dungeons-dragons-lore-changes-removed-dd-5e-why/ http://www.lisefrac.net/log/on-making-the-drow-less-problematic/ https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/dungeons-and-dragons-orcs-racist/ https://screenrant.com/dungeons-dragons-dated-offensive-problematic-changes-update-alignment/ https://www.belloflostsouls.net/2022/10/warhammer-40k-what-really-went-down-with-female-space-marines.html https://web.archive.org/web/20180708153619/http://www.dogwithdice.com/whitewolfaredead/ https://www.enworld.org/threads/deadlands-is-retconning-the-confederacy-away-they-lost-the-war-no-longer-playable.667444/ Videos: https://youtu.be/fgWlPcyi34U?t=1078 https://youtu.be/Z146pflU3KU Chronicles of Aeres: https://www.thechroniclesofaeres.com/ Nerdocognito: https://www.nerdcognito.com/ Our Links PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Demons and Devils | Dungeons and Dragons Not Monetized Enough 2:26:00

3 years ago2:26:00

2:26:00

Episode 117 Streamed Live Tuesday, December 13, 2022 Main Topic: Demons & Devils In Dungeons and Dragons Mythological etymology: Demons: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demon Devils: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devil Demons and Devils have been in Dungeons and Dragons since the beginning and continuing to the current edition. They have been forces of evil all along until the current edition, in which all creatures seem to have a human’s breadth of perspective. These creatures are mostly possessed of great supernatural powers and physical might, which make them fearsome foes to battle. Their appearance varies greatly, but they tend to be largegrotesque. In myth demon and devil are interchangeable terms, but in DnD they are distinct creatures. Devils prefer order and to lure mortals to wickedness, while demons are unpredictable and prefer outright destruction. They also hail from different planes of existence, devils from The Nine Hells, demons the Abyss. However, mortals are not likely to think the difference very important. Important Links: https://www.kurry.fi/viki/index.php/Blood_war_(Planescape) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellbound:_The_Blood_War https://screenrant.com/dungeons-dragons-satanism-controversy-demons-devils-tanarri-baatezu/ https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungeons_and_Dragons_Satanic_Panic https://pelgranepress.com/2014/05/01/13th-sage-13-campaign-uses-for-devils/ Chat Spotlight: D&D is Undermonetized/barbarian is a dirty word https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/wizards-of-the-coast-presidents-believes-dungeons-dragons-is-really-under-monetized/ Tenkar: https://youtu.be/k491Ex3MnH0 Venger: https://youtu.be/dReB-0ffHfw OGGM: https://youtu.be/Vuzzc9MN8VE Random Geekitude Report from Big Geek Land Total Party Skills: https://youtu.be/u48l56HZY9A Randy played Rifts again Our Links: PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Monster Mash #6: The Drow 2:36:16

3 years ago2:36:16

2:36:16

Episode 116 Streamed Live Tuesday, December 6, 2022 Our condolences to Kevin Siembeida https://www.palladiumbooks.com/ Our Recent Gaming: OSE- The Black River Valley Campaign now on hiatus Randyplayed Rifts on Legion of Myth this past Friday Dec 2, 2022 Big Geek Emporium gets a server upgrade, site upgrades coming soon! Main Topic: Monster Mash #6-The Drow Mythological etymology: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_elf Their first appearance in DnD books: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drow Description: cruel, wicked, depraved, dreaded, EVIL blackskinned elves w/white hair OD&D/Basic/Rules Cyclopedia: no mention 1e: The origin of the drow for DnD Magical equipment: Adamantite alloy- cloaks, boots, weapons (KO poison coating/-4 saving throw), armor of highly magical quality. MR= 50% +2%/LEVEL weakness to light. GDQ series of modules they encounter Lolth and the city of Erelhei-Cinlu. Mentions Drow war partys of certain compositions will have female leaders and males could be level 4 clerics. 2e: Monstrous Compendium II and Monstrous Manual - noble houses and merchant families, worship of Lolth, priestesses high place in society, Drider and Dreagoloth. Forgotten realms: Drizz’t and Menzoberranzan get the spotlight 3.x: E xplicitly states society is Matriarchical 4e: MM-worship the Spider Queen, once creatures of the Feywild ,but followed Lolth down a dark path/ Surface raiders/live in a matriarchical theocracy, Males cannot serve as priests. 5e: MM - a mix of 1e/2e and 3e but more generic. Lolth still their spider queen and females rule/males drool. Ecology & influence: They work well as behind the scenes as puppet masters They are great villains for mid to high level and as boogey-men for low level. Used to show a decadent society and how such a depraved society works. “ Controversy”: see RECEPTION https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drow#Conception_and_creation Chat Spotlight: How do you handle inertia at your gaming table? Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: Our Links: Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/ PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Streaming Medial Mentioned: Movies Plus https://www.mymoviesplus.com/…

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1
Houserules in Dungeons and Dragons amd other ttrpgs. 2:21:56

3 years ago2:21:56

2:21:56

House Rules in D&D: Yea or Nay? Episode 115 Streamed Live Tuesday, November 29, 2022 Main Topic: House Rules in D&D and other RPGs What is a House Rule? Definition: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/house-rule Does removing a rule, class, feature, spell, etc count as a house rule? Is there a difference between a house rule and homemade setting? Is filling in the gaps of the rules system the same as a house rule? That is, if a game has no grappling rules so you add some in due to a situation showing in a game or perhaps due to your desire to have them? Players’ Perspective: How much is too much? How much warning do you need? GM’s Perspective: When should you make a house rule? Is interpreting a questionable/unclear rule (RAI???) a house rule? https://www.dungeoneersguildgames.com/single-post/confounded-rules lists some examples from 1e AD&D RAW vs House Rules: table experience effects, at individual tables, in shared/league play: Adventurer’s League, RPGA, PF Society, ect Are they worth it? Time investment, presenting clearly to players for understanding, do they make the game better? Is it ok if it is just the GM’s preference? Can players make them individually or due to consensus, or even against the will of the GM? What type (if any) benefit from using house rules? Are there any games in which you shouldn’t make house or rules or if so, do them with a light touch? Where do you land on them in general? A Bit of a Rifts Rant: Character gen and organization- do better please. Seems that RIFTS is annoyingly convoluted. Chat Spotlight: Speculation as to the OGL/SRD for ONEDND Random Geek-it ude: Report from Big Geek Land Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

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1
Tuesday Night Pre-Thanksgiving Chill Stream 3:24:01

3 years ago3:24:01

3:24:01

Joe started out solo, but was joined by Bruce Lombardo of Dix Division, Hungar the Starvarian, then Randy joined in. links: Bruce: https://youtube.com/@YourBuddy75 Hungar: https://youtube.com/channel/UCHmL5dT_lLONt5ZnJ2eA1Nw Scrying Dutchman's Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/scryingdutchman/the-modern-adventurers-guide-to-guns-and-gear-a-5e-add-on If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
Attributes in D&D and Other TTRPGs 2:10:35

3 years ago2:10:35

2:10:35

Episode 114 Streamed Live Tuesday November 15, 2022 Main Topic: Attributed to Attributes The attributes of a character: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attribute_%28role-playing_games%29 Compare and contrast the DnD attributes: STR, DEX, CON, INT, WIS, CHA Other systems: Target Number systems- DnD 3.X +Savage Worlds: https://www.uptofourplayers.com/ready-to-roll/savage-worlds-rules/ Marvel Superheroes RPG (FASERIP): https://rollhighordie.com/what-is-marvel-faserip/ Roll and keep systems- L5R, Vampire: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vampire:_The_Masquerade#Game_system https://rollandkeep.fandom.com/wiki/Introduction_and_Design_Goals#What_is_Roll_and_Keep ? Rolemaster/CoC: percentile system: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rolemaster#Basic_game_mechanics Fate : descriptive attributes- https://fate-srd.com/fate-core/basics 1. Should attributes play a large role in the general power level of your PC? 2. Should attributes modify skills, or should skills be separate? 3. How many levels of differences would be ideal? What is the best way to scale? 4. How detailed should the modifiers be and exactly what should they modify? 5. How many attributes should you have? 6. Which is currently your favorite attribute system? Is it really all that its cracked up to be? Fright Night retro review Actor comparison: 1985: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089175/fullcredits/ 2016: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1438176/fullcredits Randy’s Rating 1985: 7/10 2011: 4/10 Joe’s Rating 1985: 8/10 2011: 1/10 Chat Spotlight: Do you like AI art in RPG books? Random Geek-it ude Report from Big Geek Land D&D used as therapy: https://www.superjumpmagazine.com/dungeons-and-dragons-and-therapy-an-interview-with-dr-megan-connell/ Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
Monster Mash #5: Giants (ogres & trolls) In Your DnD Game 2:28:43

3 years ago2:28:43

2:28:43

Episode 113 Streamed Live Tuesday November 8, 2022 Main Topic: Monster Mash: Giants, Ogres, and Trolls, oh my! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_giants_in_mythology_and_folklore https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giant_(Dungeons_%26_Dragons) Giants have a long history in Dungeons and Dragons, likely due to its creators’ love of mythology. Beings of large size (typically 7 feet or larger) feature in many myths and legends around the world. Their legendary fierce nature translates well in the tabletop arena. Giants are fearsome foes in any version of the game, which makes them great at nearly any level. What makes low level characters run screaming at a clearly unmasculine register, makes for solid challenges later in the game. There is also great variety in this creature type, giving the enterprising DM a lot of material over the many editions to have something that fits his world, or simply his table. From the brutish ogre, to the exotic oni, to the enigmatic storm giants, there is something for everyone to like. Some alternate takes: 1.) Arcana Evolved: Giants once dominated the realm. Now they seek to re-establish this dominion in an epic war. 2.) Giants are truly rare and enigmatic keepers of ancient lore. 3.) A-la Pacific Rim: Giants are a real world-wide threat consuming all the world’s resources, growing so voracious they must be stopped. Perhaps giants are emissaries of Titans, mysterious masters of the giants from another world. Question for the Chat: What makes for a good gaming convention? A Cabin Con Moment: Cabin Con Cult Mixer and BBQ hosted by Mr. Demo. Random Geek-it ude Report from Big Geek Land WoTC has huge drop in 3rd quarter of 2022: https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/mtg-wizards-of-the-coast-revenue-2022-q3 Professor Dungeon Master’s take: https://youtu.be/C3oOTDvsBxc Shameless Plug Time: Please like, follow, rate, subscribe, and share the show. Our Links Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biggusgeekuspodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/biggeekemporium Mewe: https://mewe.com/i/biggusgeekuspodcast Gab: https://gab.com/volcivar Gettr: https://gettr.com/user/biggusgeekuspod Discord: https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7 Guilded: https://www.guilded.gg/i/pWr3xZPk Cash Support PayPal: https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus SubscribeStar coming soon! Rumble coming soon! On the Web Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium: https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
Ending a Campaign | Dungeons and Dragons Thief Class Analysis 2:06:41

3 years ago2:06:41

2:06:41

Episode 112 Streamed Live Tuesday November 1, 2022 With Surprise guest: TShirted Historian The edition wars can be heated, especially considering the “That’s not DnD” refrain. This just shuts down discussion of one or more “problematic” versions of the game. Most if not all of these “editions” have something good to contribute, even if the game design went in a direction you don’t like (3rd, 4th, and 5th). There has not been “A” DnD since the 1970’s when it was ODnD. After that there have been multiple versions. Some with small rules changes, some larger. Some with tone changes to one degree or another. These are all versions of DnD. Not the same, but not completely different either (maybe 4e) Campaigns end, but what situations indicate they should. The total party kill (TPK) is a go to end, as is boredom. Does there need to be a plan? Should the plan be “in case”, or “on purpose”? is this plan just the DM’s or does he consult the players? The answers are a varied as the many game tables out there. The Thief/Rogue class has at least as many versions as Dungeons and Dragons. The class began as a class that generally contributed very little to combats, except the occasional back stab, to outperforming the fighter in straight up melee. The class has always had a lot of use outside of combat, from general pilfering to being a walking encyclopedia to being a socialite. Links to topics discussed https://www.pcgamer.com/this-dandd-campaign-has-been-running-for-40-years/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rogue_(Dungeons_%26_Dragons) The Thief: 1e: https://tablo.com/david-thomson/1st-ed-ad-and-d-the-thief 2e: https://adnd2e.fandom.com/wiki/Thief 3e: https://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/3e_SRD:Rogue 3.5: https://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/SRD:Rogue Pathfinder 1e: http://pathfinder.d20srd.org/coreRulebook/classes/rogue.html#rogue 4e: https://dnd4.fandom.com/wiki/Rogue 5e: https://www.5esrd.com/database/class/rogue/ 13th Age : https://www.13thagesrd.com/classes/rogue/ Report from Big Geek Land Minor updates for our various projects Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support https://paypal.me/biggusgeekus https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
The Many Faces of Evil in D&D 2:02:58

3 years ago2:02:58

2:02:58

Episode 111 Streamed Live Tuesday October 25, 2022 Main Topic: The Many Faces of Evil in D&D See Episodes #38: What does evil do? & 80: Evil Campaigns and PCs 1. What is evil: https://www.britannica.com/topic/seven-deadly-sins 2. D&D evil vs Real World evil. Should we stray from the definition of evil in D&D. How evil do you get with Monsters or NPCs? Is there a line short of graphic description? Where is that line? Should you put limits on the evil your NPCs or monsters will do? Are certain topics just off the table or maybe just best described in general? Does the X-card or its various incarnations come into play here? How devious should the DM be with his evil characters? Just up to his ability or up to the ability of his players to detect (not spell)? Does the DM make the game less fun if his intelligent villains are played to the hilt? 3. Oppressively evil world - World of Darkness, Midnight, or Ravenloft Are these fun to play? Can it be too much? How much of a chance must the characters have? 4. Player Characters: Should they be allowed to portray evil and if so to what degree? Would all PCs have to be evil? Can they get along and if so, what is the point? Is back stabber-y the inevitable end of such a game? That is, could a character be evil and if so, how so that they can go along with the party? Stealing Topics: All editions of D&D All Editions of D&D by Tabletop RPG Reviews: https://youtu.be/g7bAUCcsuG4 Legion of Myth: https://youtu.be/J-wNxSPptog What are our takes on all these editions? Random Geekitude Call Ins and Emails Big Geek Updates Palladium HQ visit Biggus Geekus will be on Legion of Myth- this coming Friday 10/28/22 Thoughts on Black Adam movie https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/black_adam Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com The Emporium https://biggeekemporium.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
Ravenloft-The Spooky D&D Setting 2:21:59

3 years ago2:21:59

2:21:59

Ravenloft - The Spooky D&D Setting Episode 110 Streamed Live Tuesday October 18, 2022 Main Topic: Ravenloft - The Spooky D&D Setting Ravenloft was released October 1983. This is a very popular module that spawned sequels, a setting, and many supplements over the various editions for Dungeons and Dragons. Set in the fictional region called Barovia, the PCs must find a way to defeat the vampire Strahd von Zarovich to leave this cursed land, as it is surrounded by poisonous mists that the PCs will find difficult to circumvent. This adventure features original art by fan favorite Clyde Caldwell and iconic isometric maps by David Southerland. Encounters range in difficulty with iron golems being fearsome for the suggested 6th to 8th level characters. There are some railroad-y elements to the adventure: the mists, the reincarnated lover, the “need” to have a fighter who wields a longsword, to name a few. Another feature is the tarot-inspired plot generator which provides replay with different outcomes. This original module provides a sort of mini setting in addition to the adventure itself. Subsequent adventures, supplements and setting build on the original theme, expanding it into a full-blown gothic-horror setting. Relevant links: I6 https://youtu.be/8vutGHA9fZw https://youtu.be/2nWwVdRY2yM Old Boxed Set Revised Box Set Ravenloft II Ravenloft Advanced Created Fan Site Holiday One Shots: 10 Monsters Good for Halloween 1-Shot Christmas Thanksgiving Valentine’s Day Geekosphere - Big Geek Updates D&D Documentary She-Hulk’s Last Episode Shameless Plug Time: Please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. Cash Support PayPal Streamlabs Anchor On the Web: Website Email Emporium…

Biggus Geekus

1
Creating Engaging Encounters for Dungeons and Dragons, and other ttrpgs 2:02:55

3 years ago2:02:55

2:02:55

Creating Engaging DnD Encounters Episode 109 Streamed Live Tuesday, October 11, 2022 Main Topic: Creating Engaging DnD Encounters 1. Types of Encounters Combat: primarily concerned with fighting Puzzle/Skill Challenge: challenge the PCs’ skills or the players’ wits Social/RP: roleplay and interaction with NPCs 2. Random vs pre-set 3. Making them good 4. The use of professionally created adventure encounters 5. Be careful to not get in a rut. 6. Creating Encounters for jaded/experienced players vs new players A CC Moment - Biggest and Geekiest of all events in the universe! It’s about time for the annual business meeting (what is this?). Random Geek Biggus Geekus Updates On DC’s Gay Superman book https://boundingintocomics.com/2022/10/10/dc-comics-announces-the-cancelation-of-tom-taylors-woke-superman-son-of-kal-el-series/ Safe Spaces in our hobby somehow trending again Riddle of the Sphinx Contest! - Guess the number of dice in the fishbowl: The answer was 691 The Winner was ArnMan! He chose Old Skool- WEGS RPG deluxe bag Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Big Geek Emporium : https://biggeekemporium.com/…

Biggus Geekus

1
Episode 108: Retro review of D&D’s White Plume Mountain, Finale | DnD Pushing Boundaries, Finale 2:08:08

3 years ago2:08:08

2:08:08

Retro review of D&D’s White Plume Mountain Episode 108 Streamed Live Tuesday, October 4, 2022 Main Topic (Part 1): Retro-Review: White Plume Mountain Summary of the module WoTC 3.5e version vs. TSR 1e Favorite and not-so favorite parts What changes or additions might you make? how would you rate it? Main Topic (Part 2): D&D - Pushing Boundaries (Settings and Adventure Modules) Original Settings: Greyhawk, Forgotten Realms, Mystara Others that pushed boundaries past standard fantasy fare: Dragonlance Ravenloft, Masque of the Red Death Dark Sun Birthright Spelljammer Planescape Eberron Council of Wyrms Kara-Tur, Maztica, The Horde, Theros Lankmar Ravnica, Strixhaven and Theros Honorable Mention 3rd party Campaign Settings for D&D: The Scarred Lands Golarion Midgard Ptolus Complete List of DnD Sttings https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungeons_%26_Dragons_campaign_settings The modules/adventures Top 25 adventures of all time(?): https://rpggeek.com/geeklist/49682/greatest-dd-adventure-modules-all-time-composite-r S3 Expedition to the Barrier Peaks I6 Ravenloft WG7 Castle Greyhawk Terrible Trouble at Tragidore EX 1 Dungeonland and EX2 Land beyond the Magic Mirror X2: Castle Amber T1-T4 Temple of Elemental Evil The Ruins of Undermountain Big Geek News/Updates Email! BG Emporium Big Geek Adventures Big Geek Con New Contests: Riddle of the Sphinx! Guess the number of dice in the fishbowl in the video and win a choice of: Star Wars Edge of the Empire (Beta Rules) Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay, 2e WEGS Old Skool RPG Deluxe 500 Sub Contest! Once we reach 500 subs on youtube, one luck random viewer will receive Paranoia 2e Boxed Set (with extras) More details forthcoming Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Store: www.biggeekemporium.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
Retro review of D&D’s White Plume Mountain (1e) | The OSR is Dying? 2:13:32

3 years ago2:13:32

2:13:32

Episode 107 Streamed Live Tuesday September 27 ,2022 Programming Note: Joe was solo for half of the show. He was joined by Bruce Lombardo of Dix Division: https://www.youtube.com/c/brucelombardo75 Main Topic: Retro-Review: White Plume Mountain Summary of the 1e module Was a TSR module. Good DM advice. Made in the Old School ‘DIY’ way. Light on story, big on expandability. Big Geek Updates BG Emporium: We showed of pics of the new design. https://biggeekemporium.com/ Geekosphere: The OSR is DYING?!?!? Bruce and Joe react to Gamers on Games laughable video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2R3sOoGAbU&t=196s Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/GamersOnGames Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
Dungeons and Dragons - Pushing Boundaries 2:15:36

3 years ago2:15:36

2:15:36

Episode 106 Streamed Live Tuesday September 20, 2022 Main Topic: D&D - Pushing Boundaries: TSR/WoTC often pushed boundaries Does D&D just have to be high fantasy? The Various Editions and the Boundaries they pushed: Old DnD (Oe) First of its name, Gygax and Arneson create a masterpiece of a game: no winners and never-ending story, delve into dungeons to get loot and gain power BECMI/RC Level to 36, immortals, XP for roleplaying, completing goals as well as defeating monsters, more classes, added weapon mastery, select personality and background, Mods -3 to +3 1e Advanced More guidance, adventure types: dungeon, outdoor, town, focus on adventure and RP, Magic Resistance based on 11th level, race/class combos Foolishness: https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/FSupp/473/759/2148159/ Other media: The Dungeons and Dragons Cartoon https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungeons_%26_Dragons_(TV_series) 2e Advanced: THAC0, Standard magic resistance, Dragons awesome, Character Class groups, Spell caps, Specialty priests, settings, more narratively focused, bloat, The four horsemen: Parkinson, Elmore, Caldwell, Easley Foolishness: Removing Gary Gygax: https://boingboing.net/2014/08/12/how-gary-gygax-lost-control-ov.html Monstrous Compendium Binders: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monstrous_Compendium *Caving: (Removal of Devils and Demons) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungeons_%26_Dragons_controversies#TSR_removes_Satanic_monsters 3e Selling to WoTC: https://www.enworld.org/threads/ryan-dancey-acquiring-tsr.661632/ in 1997- http://gamecabinet.com/news/TSRWotC.html WoTC purchased by Hasbro- https://money.cnn.com/1999/09/09/deals/hasbro/ The OGL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_Game_License The Creation of 3e: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Editions_of_Dungeons_%26_Dragons#Dungeons_&_Dragons_3rd_edition New approach, character build, Stat mods increased, FRW saves, Unified XP chart, Feats, skills, BAB and ascending AC, D20 checks high/good and low/bad, magic shop, CR, New Setting: Eberron Chances taken: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Vile_Darkness D&D The Movies: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungeons_%26_Dragons_(film_series) 4e: big changes, new direction, every class has powers: daily, at will and encounter, miniatures & maps required, informed by video games such as wow, cartoonish art/anime, divided fan base and gave room for PF. New setting: Points of Light: The Nentir Vale The Creation of 4e: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Editions_of_Dungeons_%26_Dragons#Dungeons_&_Dragons_4th_edition Foolishness: Advertisement leading up to 4e: “Hey, let’s alienate old fans.” https://youtu.be/sbbqMoEwDqc Funny: https://youtu.be/4UqFPujRZWo 5e: Lots of 3e stuff and bits of 4e (short and long rests), optional feat system, controlled character build, easy mode, characters rarely die, legendary and lair actions, DnD Beyond digital components become significantly useful after 2-3 editions of empty promises Foolishness: https://www.belloflostsouls.net/2020/07/dd-wizards-of-the-coast-adds-disclaimer-to-legacy-content.html https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/spelljammer-race-controversy-hadozee YouTube: Critical Role and the Rise of Actual Plays: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Critical_Role ONE D&D Prediction! Big Geek Updates! Shameless Plug Time: Please like, subscribe, and share We are on all the socials, YouTube, and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor (maybe ending): anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
The Great DnD Modules & Adventures 2:15:06

3 years ago2:15:06

2:15:06

Episode 105 Streamed Live, Tuesday September 13 ,2022 Geekosphere Ø Call-In (no emails) Taylor of Clerics Wear Ringmail Ø Played last Thursday- OSE/B/X-flaws in the system: death and dying, hiring retainers, the Barbarian in OSE may suck, not a fan of the five saving throws, and other? Ø Big Geek Emporium: POD ready! Ø Big Con update Ø Big Geek Adventures: art, map making Main Topic: The Great D&D Modules & Adventures Ø BECMI (or OD&D): https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/155271.Dungeons_and_Dragons_BECMI_and_Mystara_Adventure_Modules Ø AD&D 1e: https://dnd-wiki.org/wiki/1e_Modules Ø AD&D 2e: https://dnd-wiki.org/wiki/2e_Modules Ø 3.X: https://dnd-wiki.org/wiki/3.5e_Adventures Ø 4e: https://dnd-wiki.org/wiki/4e_Adventures Ø 5e: https://dnd-wiki.org/wiki/5e_Adventures Ø 3rd party Adventures: Judges Guild: Dark Tower, Tegel Manor, Caverns of Thracia Ø White Wolf’s Sword & Sorcery imprint: Rappan Athuk, OSR: Barrowmaze, Paizo: Rise of the Runelords Ø How and why do they bind us? Ø Do organized play adventures do the same? Ø What experience do newer D&D fans have that is similar. Ø The difference between good and just good memories/Chasing Nostalgia Ø Can newer modules produce the same reaction/memories? Mordenkainen’s Magnificent Mechanics - Savage Worlds Char gen: die types for stats, edges, and hindrances, Leveling up: ranks: novice, seasoned, veteran, heroic, and legendary Dice Conventions: raises and acing [die explosions] Cards & Bennies 3 wounds and soak rolls vs HPS/Shaken/death rules Wild Cards (PCs) vs Extras Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
D&D and RPG Sundry 2:07:55

3 years ago2:07:55

2:07:55

Episode 104 Steamed Live Tuesday September 6, 2022 Main Topic: D&D and RPG Sundry We take a night off from fully planned and amazingly detailed gaming discussion for a more off the cuff discussion with our homies on the stream and elsewhere. A. Played 5e dnd 1-shot this past Saturday- game is without doubt very soft B. The Hadozee Controversy: https://dnd.wizards.com/articles/statement-hadozee C. BG Emporium updates D. Biggus Modulus updates E. Big Geek Con update F. Call-ins/emails/reviews from Itunes G. Fighting the power- Rings of Power first episode https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_rings_of_power H. Random topics of geekery! Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video, and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

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1
ARTIFACTS In Your Dungeons and Dragons Game 2:07:21

3 years ago2:07:21

2:07:21

Episode 103 Streamed Live Tuesday August 30, 2022 Main Topic: ARTIFACTS, Simply The Coolest! 1.) History of Artifacts in DnD: OD &D and BECMI 2.) AD & D Era: 1e and 2e- The Best? And why we loved it 3.) 3e – 5e ‘s Take on Artifacts 4.) Links: https://dungeonsdragons.fandom.com/wiki/Artifact and https://annex.fandom.com/wiki/List_of_major_artifacts_in_Dungeons_%26_Dragons 5.) Our favorites and why 6.) How to best use them in a campaign. 7.) Should all magic items be more like artifacts? Mordenkainen’s Magnificent Mechanics: 3.X: unified die mechanic(mostly), SR, CR (conceptually- as a guide for the fledgling DM), Fort/Ref/Will, ease of multiclassing(conceptually), BAB Pathfinder (exception 3.75) : CMB/CMD 4e: No Comment 5e: Advantage/Disadvantage, easy to learn/teach, HD for healing, Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

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1
Episode 102: Golems and Constructs in Dungeons and Dragons | Favorite DnD Game Mechanics | One DnD 2:30:25

3 years ago2:30:25

2:30:25

Monster Mash #4: Golems & Constructs Episode 102 Streamed Live Tuesday August 23, 2022 Geekosphere ONE D&D coming 2024, but sign up now for playtest document: https://youtu.be/OpI7J9vtbnw Main Topic: Monster Mash #4 - Golems & Constructs 1) Their first appearance in DnD: Golems and other constructs had their start all the way back in the Greyhawk Supplement for OD&D in 1975. There were many variants over the editions: Obsidian, Wood, Bronze in NX, BECMI, RC Modrons appeared in 1e Necrophidius Golem, Stone Guardian, caryatid column in 2e Inevitables (modrons and maruts) in Planescape Big four and a total of 74 types other types in 3e Warforged of Eberron: https://eberron.fandom.com/wiki/Warforged and http://eberronunlimited.wikidot.com/warforged#toc0 (+) No Modrons until Dragon 414 in 4e. Big four, animated objects, clockwork creatures, Modrons, Marut in 5e 2) Their most common types, characteristics & powers throughout the editions. Golems: immune to magic, no sneak attack, SR, could go berserk, unique ways to kill PCs especially Clay and Iron 3) Ecology & influence of monster in the campaign world. Built by spellcasters, eternal guardians, odd defenders, generally difficult to defeat, even for the creator, great higher-level foes, usually limited influence on the world and campaign 4.) How best to use them? They should be guardians of ancient/hidden treasures. They should be challenging and terrifying. My Favorite Examples: 3.X: Demonflesh Golem that was programmed to act like it was Demogorgon as well as to frustrate spellcasters and terrify 2e characters. 5.) Mythological: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golem 6.) 3+ alternate takes: a.) What if the technique to creating golems were lost to time? b.) A powerful wizard summons an Ultron-like creature bound eons ago in the plane of law (Mechanus). c.) Consider a world not unlike Eberron wherein constructs are a part of life, a highly magical world. Suddenly one day, they all stop working. Mordenkainen’s Magnificent Mechanics: OD+D: nothing comes to mind BECMI/BX/: stat mods(lower), domain play emphasized, power of spells, CLW though slight difference TSR Era DnD: monster immunities, PC fragility, save or suck spells/conditions, stat boosting items/situations hard to come by, power of spells Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
Starting a New Campaign 2:27:14

3 years ago2:27:14

2:27:14

Episode 101 of our SHOW and the date is Tuesday 16,2022. (R) Big Geek Emporium! The Alt-Drive is Live!!! Main Topic: Starting a New Campaign Choose setting and rules set Old tried and true stuff Brand new setting Brand new system Starting characters-restrictions Choosing the Players & Setting the IRL parameters Online vs F2F Previous players vs new players Same old group vs mix-it-up Time/days/length of sessions/length of campaign/# of players The First Session PCs meet at the tavern. PCs know each other PCs being hired to complete a mission. A more organic start PCs start at the entrance to the dungeon. In media res Differing Approaches Sandbox/Open ended but with some limit s Linear Adventure or homebrewed storyline Combination: Sandbox & Linear Adventure No/low prep/wide open TRUE SANDBOX What are you looking for in a DnD Style Adventure/Campaign Setting Size? Style? Details? OSR or OSR adjacent or DnD version X How about something New, but familiar? Our New Campaign & 1st Session last week We began a new campaign. Analysis: Homebrew setting: Hymyr/ OSE/3rd level PCs/F2F/Mixed group new & old/ Began at the negotiation table with patron for a mission/assumed PCs had worked together before This differs a bit from a standard campaign as I am hoping to playtest a module (perhaps a series of them/setting) and build up to a true Mudsword RPG. Geekosphere D & D Campaign Cases: https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/campaign-case-creatures-review Is your DM too strict? https://www.pcgamer.com/ai-dungeon-ttrpg-campaign-game-master/ Come on DC grow a pair: https://screenrant.com/why-dc-still-release-flash-ezra-miller-controversy/ Shameless Plug Time If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video, and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Store: www.biggeekemporium.com Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
Episode 100 Retrospective 2:19:35

3 years ago2:19:35

2:19:35

Episode #100 Streamed Live Tuesday August 9, 2022 Gencon 2022 Report from Patrick Demo of Point Hat Games Main Topic: We finally made it, or did we? I. Our own personal history with D&D and RPGs II. Biggus Geekus – A retrospective III. Biggus Geekus- the future IV. Thanks to: Wherein we give thanks to those who helped. Geekosphere 1. Call-ins/emails – let’s do it!! 2. Episode #100- Milestone Contest - thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Grimtooth’s Ultimate Traps Collection by Goodman Games (Kickstarter edition) 3. Zaslov https://theculturednerd.org/2022/08/warner-bros-discoverys-ceo-david-zaslav-confirms-that-major-changes-are-on-the-horizon-for-the-dceu/ 4. A totally boss take down of woke Hollywood losers: https://youtu.be/NXIoEmyofoQ Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts and virtually everywhere you get your podcasts Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Emporium: www.biggeekemporium.com Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Socials: Twitter: @biggusgeekus Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biggusgeekuspodcast MeWe: www.mewe.com/i/biggusgeekuspodcast (new!) Discord: https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7 Gilded: https://www.guilded.gg/i/2OO39wj2…

Biggus Geekus

1
Safety Tools | Staying Positive | Blain Pardoe | Gencon 2022 2:19:38

3 years ago2:19:38

2:19:38

The Penultimate Potpourri Episode Episode 99 Streamed Live Tuesday August 2, 2022 With Patrick Demo of Pointy Hat Games http://www.pointyhat.games Main Topic: Safety Tools Re-Dux 1. Brought up again by twitter? 2. What are they? https://www.loremaster.io/safety-tools-in-ttrpg/ a.) Session Zero b.) C.A.T.S. c.) X-card d.) Lines & Veils e.) More: https://thegiftofdice.itch.io/safety-tools-and-wellbeing-a-curated-list 3. The value of safety tools in F2F, Online, and Convention play. 4. When will it end? Staying Positive King Waspinator inspired https://youtu.be/SUuPyD7Xisk 1. With the rpg hobby in general 2. With your own personal games 3. With the nerd culture in general 4. Why don’t we focus on positive things? 5. Are they simply not interesting enough? 6. How do we keep it interesting? 7. Why are rants and complaints content always so much more interesting? Gencon 2022: Pointy Hat and P. Demo 1.) What are the current requirements to attend and vend at the show? 2.) How excited are you to go? 3.) Do you expect to have a good outing: sales, time value and fun? 4.) What about the BiPoC room? 5.) Other concerns/comments. Geekosphere 1. Catalyst Games fires Blaine Pardoe https://amgreatness.com/2022/07/29/my-publisher-canceled-me-in-favor-of-an-activist-who-threatened-my-life/ https://townhall.com/columnists/blainepardoe/2022/08/01/pummeled-into-silence--conservative-censorship-hits-scifi-n2611063 https://bleedingfool.com/news/catalyst-games-lab-caves-to-cancel-culture-trolls-fires-long-time-battletech-writer/ https://youtu.be/-hhgCu_1KXY Catalyst statement: https://bg.battletech.com/forums/general-discussion/statement-regarding-blaine-lee-pardoe/ 2. Contest of Champions- and the winner is…. 3. How goes Big Geek Emporium? 4. Episode #100: We go down memory lane and show where we are going Contest-Send an email in this week to thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com with a comment that epitomizes Biggus Geekus for a chance to win Grimtooth’s Ultimate Traps Collection by Goodman Games (Kickstarter edition). Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video, and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
Monster Mash - The Terrasque in your Dungeons and Dragons Game 2:07:34

3 years ago2:07:34

2:07:34

Monster Mash: The Tarrasque Episode 98 Streamed Live Thursday July 28, 2022 Shout outs: Honey Badger Radio: https://youtu.be/5lFI8YRz2eM The Basic Expert: https://youtu.be/DH51HdIvE2k at the 20:22 mark Legion of Myth clip coming soon: https://www.youtube.com/c/LegionofMyth Future Appearances Red Room: 7/29 at 11am T-Shirted Historian: 7/30 time TBD Main Topic: Monster Mash - The Tarrasque Topical Links: https://thecampaign20xx.blogspot.com/2014/07/everything-you-need-to-know-about.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tarasque https://mythus.fandom.com/wiki/Tarasque 1) Its first appearance in DnD books 2) Its most common characteristics & powers throughout the editions. 3) Ecology & influence of monster in the campaign world. 4) How best to use them? Our favorite examples. 5) Mythological etymology: 6) 3 alternate takes on the creature a) 13th age: https://www.13thagesrd.com/monsters/ b) The 5e Book of the Tarrasque: page 7 c) The True Tarrasque: https://www.gmbinder.com/share/-M9usahTVHiYqci1OHYA Venger Con Report 1. Stayed until 10:30 am on Sunday 2. The ATTENDEES & Venger 3. The games: OSE, BECMI/Rules Cyclopedia, Venger’s own, “198?” Conan, homebrews, DCC 4. Venger Con 2? 5. Pics on will be up on the website or social media Geekosphere 1. Total Party Skills https://youtu.be/SUuPyD7Xisk 2. The D& D Movie trailer: https://youtu.be/IiMinixSXII 3. The Contest of Champions – Pushed to next week 4. “Planescape doesn’t suck or why doesn’t Max trust me?”: ;) https://youtu.be/ZvwwQsA1cko?t=1785 Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show. We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
Alignment in Dungeons and Dragons ... Again 2:08:56

3 years ago2:08:56

2:08:56

Episode 97 Streamed Live Tuesday July 19, 2022 Main Topic: Alignment in D&D Alignment is defined as a categorization of the ethical and moral perspective of player characters, non-player characters, and creatures. Yes, we have covered this before going to try to go in more depth. When did it originate? It seems pretty clear alignment began in Chainmail as a way to have the “good guys” and the “bad guys”. The good guys were Lawful, and the bad were Chaotic. Later in Advanced Dungeons and Dragons, alignment became much more detailed and granular with the iconic 9 alignments. These have been debated on their meaning over the years, even though they were spelled out in the books. Some links as food for discussion: Changing Meaning of Alignment https://grognardia.blogspot.com/2008/12/od-planes.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alignment_(Dungeons_%26_Dragons) Tolkien and DnD Alignment https://www.gamersdecide.com/articles/dnd-alignments-explained https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alignment_(Dungeons_%26_Dragons) https://adnd2e.fandom.com/wiki/PHB_Ch4_Alignment 5e Alignment Alignment Tracking https://rpg.stackexchange.com/questions/10032/whats-the-deal-with-alignment-languages https://viridianscroll.blogspot.com/2021/04/what-are-alignment-languages.html Inevitably the Palladium system rears its ugly head: https://imgur.com/gallery/DmKvb Alignment has been connected to cosmology in Dungeons and dragons sometimes tightly as in The Great Wheel, and sometimes loosely as in The World Axis Great Wheel World Axis The Planes Also in discussion: Alignment-based character classes (Paladin, Cleric, Barbarian, Thief, etc.) Changing alignment and its effects on your character Alignment languages The Geekosphere 1. Call-ins/emails 2. THE CONTEST OF CHAMPIONS: enter win here: http://biggusgeekuspodcast.com/contest-entry/ 3. Big Geek Emporium: biggeekemporium.com Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal Streamlabs Anchor On the Web: Website Email…

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1
OSR, Old School, and the DnD divide with Legacy Game Mastering 2:39:16

3 years ago2:39:16

2:39:16

Episode 96 Streamed Live Tuesday July 12, 2022 Main Topic: OSR, Old School and the DnD divide with The Legacy GM https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4OoPEzT5nq0c7ToEpWSe3A We discuss many aspects of “Old School” or OSR gaming. Legacy GM (LGM) discusses his favorite games and gaming style. We go over some potential differences between OSR games and Old School feel. LGM talks about getting younger folks into older style games. Then we discuss the, largely, sociopolitical divide in the hobby. We try to figure out why it is so stark a divide. Also, we discuss what we feel the essence of the divide is and take swipes at post modernism. We agree that likely the only way to bridge the gap is to set a good example of being accepting of the folks we are accused of hating but concede that it will only be a few of them we can hope to convince. Segment #2: Like it Love it, or Leave it TSR (the original company-version 1.0) - Love Psionics in D&D - Like Movie Reboots - Leave Contest of Champions-Finally! We’ve hit 250+. Now the give-away, you get to choose ONE 1) Feng Shui 2 by Robin D Laws 2) Traps & Treachery d20 book (sticker on cover) by FFG 3) Rackham Vale: Fantasy Adventures from the Art of Arthur Rackham (OSE related) How are we doing it? To Be Announced. Geek Culture 1.Call-ins/emails: Will have a whole show dedicated to the backlog. Likely next week. (7/19) 2. Steve Jackson Games: http://www.sjgames.com/ill/archive/July_08_2022/Roe_v_Wade Venger Satanis: https://youtu.be/P-JS7o1EFEI Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well. Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com…

Biggus Geekus

1
Five More Cool RPGs That Are Not Dungeons and Dragons 1:39:47

3 years ago1:39:47

1:39:47

Episode 95 Streamed Live Tuesday July 5, 2022 Main Topic: 5 Other Non-D&D RPGs to play These are not D&D, play experience is different Links to games mentioned savage worlds: https://peginc.com/savage-settings/savage-worlds/ mage the ascension: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/199/Mage-The-Ascension-Revised?term=mage+the dungeon crawl classics: https://goodman-games.com/dungeon-crawl-classics-rpg/ legend of the five rings: https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/legend-of-the-five-rings-roleplaying-game/ heroes unlimited: https://www.palladiumbooks.com/modern/heroes-unlimited 1) Savage Worlds a) Great for time-challenged: This is a game that is easy to understand and get to playing in no time. b) Cheap barrier to entry. One book is all that is needed. pdf 10 bucks, hardback 40. (used to be cheaper) c) Plays fast: target number is 4 d) The dice explosion mechanic is fun e) Very deadly, approach fighting with care 2) Dungeon Crawl Classics a) Though superficially like BX D&D, it differs enough to have a very different table experience. b) Spells have a very wide array of effects, each having its own random table. c) Character creation is fast and can be interesting with The Funnel. d) Has a more Gonzo sword and sorcery vibe than D&D given the randomness of spells, fumbles, and crits 3) Legend of the Five Rings a) May make wokeskolds irate "because reasons". Be exotic. b) The exotic Roll and keep is a favorite dice mechanic of mine. c) Combat, thought exotic, is very deadly, approach with caution, and use stealth or diplomacy when possible. d) Has a lore that is very exotic in tone and well thought out. Edition changes has wrought some havoc on the lore though. e) Very different play experience from D&D, some would call it ... exotic 4) Mage The Ascension a) This more of a wish to play. Especially if the more emo elements remove. H/T to Heathendog at Legion of Myth b) World of Darkness has some stark tonal differences to many other RPG. Its Dark man. c) Freeform magic is always attractive to as a long time D&D wizard player. 5) Heroes Unlimited a) I love a supers game. I like Paladium. Seems like a good fit. b) Paladium's system will feel familiar to D&D players, but different at the same c) This is another "would like to play" rather than a true recommendation. I already know the base system and understand it. d) Like all Paladium's games, it is a self-contained game but can be used with their other offerings. It has enough of it's own lore to you going. Geekosphere 1. Call-ins/emails: We have accumulated a large set of call ins. We will set up an episode just to clear them. Coming soon! 2. Wizards for Justice: https://twitter.com/WizardsJustice 3. The channel has reached over 200 subs. 4. Shout out to Venger Satanis’ Publishing imprint. Hopefully some of it is still available at Drivethru RPG, also he can be reached via email and accepts paypal directly. http://vengersatanis.blogspot.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/VengerSatanis 5. Random Shout Out to Wizard Tower Games. The company has an upcoming board game offering called d20 Delving. https://twitter.com/realwizardtower/status/1538194462811295744?s=20&t=vxpZ4gWg5alBOpGWtMRjOw https://wizardtowergames.com/ Shameless Plug Time: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com New Discord Server Link https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7…

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1
On The DriveThruRPG Controversy 8:14

3 years ago8:14

8:14

Episode 94 Recorded Thursday June 30th 2022 Joe flies solo to talk about how the latest nonsense from DriveThru should have us all looking for or making alternatives to the platform. To support the show please go to: https://www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com/support Please like share and subscribe! Links to Materia Discussed: Lamentations of The Flame Princess (Raggi) https://youtu.be/PufXMjSA-Kw Total Party Skills (waspinator) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQkf5TOFKyM…

Biggus Geekus

1
D&D Lessons You wish you’d learned earlier 2:10:41

3 years ago2:10:41

2:10:41

Episode 93 Streamed Live Tuesday June 21, 2022 Geek Culture 1. Satine Phoenix & her husband: https://www.enworld.org/threads/d-d-celebrity-satine-phoenix-husband-jamison-stone-accused-of-abuse-towards-freelancers.689276/page-3 2. https://twitter.com/dndinacastle/status/1536742772694298625 And Venger’s response https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=847850639508484&set=gm.559008798995734 3. RDD @ UK Game EXPO : https://youtu.be/v80e0shnS2c 4. Venger Con 2022 ( 7/22-7/24 ): https://tabletop.events/conventions/venger-con-2022 D&D Lessons You wish you’d learned earlier 1. DM’s Perspective a. It’s not a competition b. Play by the rules before you decide to house rule/homebrew c. It’s more than just combat d. Let the players be heroes e. Prep less/game more f. It’s more about the players than the game g. Don’t lose confidence h. Learn to be open to a bigger table i. Prep efficiently 2. Player’s Perspective a. It’s not just about my character b. Help the DM c. Help other player’s characters be cool d. Do what is expected sometimes e. Be helpful but not pushy f. Know at least enough to run your character g. Relax and have a good time 3. General Perspective a. Know thyself: do not waste time on the new shiny if it isn’t in your wheelhouse. b. Discern want vs need (and can/will use) in purchases c. Be willing to try a variety of RPG’s d. Consider Alternate Locations/Variations e. Cultivate your group. f. Don’t be quick to get rid of books 1 Random Question(s) How do you handle RPG nostalgia? ToM vs Total grid/minis focused play. Pros & Cons to using miniatures. Pro : Aids in visualization and imagination Con : Can be a pain to put on the table, expensive, take up space Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share: Podcast: Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts and wherever you get your podcasts Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Socials: Twitter: @biggusgeekus Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biggusgeekuspodcast MeWe: www.mewe.com/i/biggusgeekuspodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7 Gilded: https://www.guilded.gg/i/2OO39wj2 Videos Odysee: https://odysee.com/@biggusgeekus:3 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/s/biggusgeekus…

Biggus Geekus

1
Stereotypes, Inclusion and Representation in D&D 2:17:53

3 years ago2:17:53

2:17:53

Episode 92 Streamed Live Tuesday June 14, 2022 Random Geek-itude 1. Eric July got his first shipment … of what? Not sure, but I’m ready for the Rippaverse: https://twitter.com/EricDJuly/status/1534615182705565696 2. https://boundingintocomics.com/2022/06/13/screenrant-star-wars-article-epitomizes-everything-wrong-with-the-lefts-racial-perspectives/ 3. Just for fun: https://www.gamersdecide.com/articles/10-greatest-weapons-dnd-legendary-weapons-1 Main Topic: Stereotypes, Inclusion and Representation in D&D I Definition Stereotype: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/stereotype How Stereotypes can be good: 1.) Set base lines/make the world believable (need to see the normal before the abnormal becomes truly “weird”). 2.) Stereotypical NPCs/monsters allow players a more predictable way to react to the world making the exception more interesting and intriguing. ex: the friendly barkeep, the sagely, but forgetful wizard, kindly old priest, or the edgy rogue with a heart of gold. 3.) Definition Monsters: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/monster - monsters are essentially evil - frees folks from moral relativism - the game has alignment, so intention is that there is REAL evil and good in the game When/how can Stereotypes be bad? Depends on the temperaments of the folks at the table, and how the stereotype is delivered. II Definitions of Inclusion: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/inclusion https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/include 1.) Legion of Myth Nod: natural inclusion not forced diversity 2.) Not the inclusion we hear about today: https://www.cbr.com/dungeons-and-dragons-representation-inclusivity-plans/ 3.) When has the hobby not ever been inclusive? 4.) How can Inclusion be good? 5.) When/how can Inclusion be bad? III Definition Representation: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/represented 1.) Legion of Myth: Escapism not Representation 2.) Representation must have limits: from DM perspective, your world cannot really be representative of all things unless it becomes cartoonish 3.) Representation today: https://www.themarysue.com/representation-in-d-and-d/ 4.) When/how can representation be good? 5.) When/how can representation be bad? One Random Question: How much use/mileage do you get out of “good” monsters in D&D? Open Discussion: Generating Good Content Revisiting old stuff/deeper dive into old topics Evergreen topics: Gm Advice How To topics Exploration of Actual Play Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: Podcast: Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts and virtually everywhere you get your podcasts Cash Support: PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Socials: Twitter: @biggusgeekus Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biggusgeekuspodcast MeWe: www.mewe.com/i/biggusgeekuspodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7 Gilded: https://www.guilded.gg/i/2OO39wj2 Videos: Odysee: https://odysee.com/@biggusgeekus:3YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyVze8TfIB16j0PdmE4lOJg…

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1
We Love The OSR, But Is It D&D? 1:41:10

3 years ago1:41:10

1:41:10

Our fascination with OSR Episode 91 Streamed Live Tuesday June 7,2022 Random Geek-itude 1. Batman Knights-Batman is possibly Bi-sexual https://youtu.be/zovi-CwUxrk 2. The Stranger Things Final Season Villain? https://www.themarysue.com/what-d-and-d-villain-stranger-things-final-season/ 3. Vecna Statue: https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/51255/wizkids-unveils-dungeons-dragons-vecna-premium-statue 4. Shout out to Patrick Demo: Randy’s Orcus mini is no longer lonely in the Abyss of my miniature collection! Our fascination with the OSR I. Mile high View Is the OSR Nostalgia? A Return to your Roots? A Re-focusing of what you think is important? The Truth in D&D? II. Exhibit A: BG’s recent Exploration of B-X through OSE We played OSE Saturday: Are the mechanics solid? Does it have the right feel? Any quirks? Some old adventure design stuff became glaringly apparent. The sheer gonzo nature. III. Building Back Better Should we: 1.) play OSR & just remove the warts as we see them 2.) to start fresh from 3.x – removing the cumbersome rules 3.) do our own thing from scratch OR 4.) Create a cool/fun setting (Hymyr) and just play all the variants of DnD and enjoy them for what they are 1 Random Question: What keeps bringing you back to the table after all these years? Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: Podcast: Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts and virtually everywhere you get your podcasts Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Socials: (coming soon: gettr, rumble) Twitter: @biggusgeekus Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biggusgeekuspodcast MeWe: www.mewe.com/i/biggusgeekuspodcast (new!) Discord: https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7 Gilded: https://www.guilded.gg/i/2OO39wj2 Videos Odysee invite link: https://odysee.com/$/invite/@biggusgeekus:3 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyVze8TfIB16j0PdmE4lOJg…

Biggus Geekus

1
Dungeons and Dragons vs. The Satanic Panic and the Woke Mob 2:04:32

3 years ago2:04:32

2:04:32

Episode 90 Streamed Live Tuesday May 31, 2022 Random Geek-itude 1. Call-ins/emails: Taylor from Clerics Wear Ringmail on playing with “Randos” 2. Stranger Things Season 4 Tackles the Satanic Panic: link below Main Topic: Dungeons and Dragons vs. The Satanic Panic and the Woke Mob How are they similar? How are they different? Which was worse? Does it matter now? How did we fight the former and how do we fight the current? Our experiences with it. The Satanic Panic- the time when Dungeons and Dragons was thought to be connected to devil/Satan worship and the destruction of the youth. 60 Minutes: https://youtu.be/Cm_2S8E_UOI B.A.D.D.: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patricia_Pulling The BBC: https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-26328105 The Nerdist - Part 1: https://nerdist.com/article/how-did-gaming-greats-navigate-the-satanic-panic-of-the-1980s/ The Nerdist - Part II: https://nerdist.com/article/how-dd-writers-fought-the-satanic-panic/ Groovy History: https://groovyhistory.com/satanic-panic-brief-history-hysteria Demons and Devils Facelift: https://screenrant.com/dungeons-dragons-satanism-controversy-demons-devils-tanarri-baatezu/ The Grunge: https://www.grunge.com/179063/the-controversial-history-of-dungeons-dragons/ Stranger Things: https://www.denofgeek.com/tv/stranger-things-season-4-dungeons-and-dragons-satanic-panic/ Dark Dungeons (Chick Tract) https://www.chick.com/products/tract?stk=0046 Michael Stackpole: http://pc.gamespy.com/articles/539/539635p1.html The Woke Invasion- The slippery slope of virtual signaling, SJW-madness, representation and woke insanity Color Code to The Woke: https://www.therpgsite.com/pen-paper-roleplaying-games-rpgs-discussion/list-ttrpg-guide-to-woke-companies/ Woke RPG’s v Non-woke RPGs: https://medium.com/theuglymonster/woke-roleplaying-games-sell-better-than-not-woke-rpgs-cb5853fba7a2 Fighting against WOKE Culture: https://nypost.com/2021/01/31/10-ways-to-fight-back-against-woke-culture/(application to gaming) POC Gamer: https://pocgamer.com/2019/08/02/decolonization-and-integration-in-dd/ Orcs = Black People: https://www.wired.com/story/dungeons-dragons-diversity/ Playing in the Mud: Setting motivates rules, right? 3.X is the new old hotness…or is it? What things do we wish to leave behind from 3.X? Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: Podcast: Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts and virtually everywhere you get your podcasts Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Socials: (coming soon: gettr, rumble) Twitter: @biggusgeekus Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biggusgeekuspodcast MeWe: www.mewe.com/i/biggusgeekuspodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7 Gilded: https://www.guilded.gg/i/2OO39wj2 Videos Odysee: https://odysee.com/@biggusgeekus:3 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyVze8TfIB16j0PdmE4lOJg…

Biggus Geekus

1
Cultivating a Game Group & Fantastic Locations 1:50:01

3 years ago1:50:01

1:50:01

Episode 89 Streamed Live, Thursday May 24, 2022 Random Geek-itude 1. Call-ins/emails: John and Taylor 2. Warner Bros does something right: https://variety.com/2022/film/news/wonder-twins-movie-canceled-hbo-max-1235254892/ 3. DC Fails again: https://screenrant.com/batman-bisexual-bruce-wayne-dc-fans-react/ 4. Demogorgon mini to be released: https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/dungeons-dragons-demogorgon-demon-lord-critical-role/ Main Topic: Part One - Cultivating a Gaming Group Should every player play in every game? Choosing the right players: setting & system preferences or limitations, RP level, action level, exploration level Playing with random players- game store, internet, or message board When to bow out? Main Topic: Part 2 - Setting up Fantastic Locations & Situations The idea: something exotic, interesting, challenging How important is it to make a location fantastic? Show the mundane consistently to accentuate the fantastic How can you generate these neat ideas? Movies, comics, books, paintings/pics (internet), modules/adventures How important is it to most games that you have these places? How do you place such ideas in a world trying to maintain some verisimilitude? Examples … One Page Dungeons: https://www.dungeoncontest.com/ Random Question : Do you ever see yourself not playing TTRPGs? Shameless Plug Time: If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also: Podcast: Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts and virtually everywhere you get your podcasts Cash Support PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus Streamlabs: https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip Anchor: https://www.anchor.fm/biggusgeekus On the Web: Website: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com Email: thegeeks@biggusgeekuspodcast.com Socials: (coming soon: gettr, rumble) Twitter: @biggusgeekus Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biggusgeekuspodcast MeWe: www.mewe.com/i/biggusgeekuspodcast (new!) Discord: https://discord.gg/PxuFrfybb7 Gilded: https://www.guilded.gg/i/2OO39wj2 Videos Odysee: https://odysee.com/@biggusgeekus:3 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyVze8TfIB16j0PdmE4lOJg…

Biggus Geekus

1
CC16 Re-Cap and Lessons learned 1:53:49

3 years ago1:53:49