RPG From Scratch

Design Episode 73 :: Summit of the Nine

Mon, 27 May 2024 12:00:33 GMT

The hombres dive into the intricacies of world-building, focusing naming mountain ranges and the creation of the Guf city-states. As the podcast continues to unfold, listeners can look forward to further exploration of this fascinating world and its inhabitants.

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Design Episode 72 :: Death Becomes You

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 04:01:12 GMT

In this episode of RPG From Scratch, our Homebrew Hombres dive deep into character classes and abilities! They discuss giving Command its very own Attendant to boss around both in and out of combat and making it so Death players can now weaponize their own Death Score to inflict damage on enemies while also absorbing it from allies. Don't miss this enlightening episode filled with hijinks and powerful enhancements to your next roleplaying system!

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Design Episode 71 :: Lost in Translation

Mon, 01 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT

In this exciting episode of RPG From Scratch, we're talking about how to bring the fun of Artifacts to the digital world of play-by-post forums. We mull over what it would take to adapt to this unique style of play so you can roll the dice and sling spells with friends from all over the internet. And that's not all - we've even created a brand new character just for you to try out at conventions. So whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie adventurer, join us for an unforgettable journey into the world of online RPGs!

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Design Episode 70 :: Ctrl + ROLL

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 04:00:35 GMT

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Design Episode 69 :: The Nice One

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 05:00:21 GMT

In this episode, we flesh out Radiance levels 7-10 giving them new spells and powerful abilities. We also nail down the racial abilities Savothians. And if that wasn't enough, we also take a closer look at the geography of Urd, finalizing the shape of the map and exploring the different regions and locations that your players can explore. Join us as we explore the exciting world of game creation in this must-listen episode of our podcast.

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Design Episode 68 :: The Lamplighters

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 05:00:01 GMT

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Design Episode 67 :: Knights of the Round Tabletop

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 05:00:44 GMT

We explore the concept of hazardous items and how the Leyliners (and McGargle) would classify them. But that's not all - we also take a detour to discuss the preparation process for polishing off the epic Citadel Path. It's sure to be a lively and engaging episode that any tabletop fan won't want to miss. So join us as we dive into the world of tabletop roleplaying and have a blast doing it!

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Bonus :: Discussing The Open Gaming License

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 22:00:00 GMT

The Hombres gather to discuss the recent news regarding Hasbro and their proposed changes to the Open Gaming License, the motivations behind it, and what kind of licensing structure we plan on using for our Artifacts Roleplaying Game. Community drives this entire industry, so we'd love to hear what you value about this concept as well.

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Design Episode 66 :: Step by Step

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 05:00:47 GMT

The Hombres create another premade character to add to the canon. We also map out a baseline of what each step should get on steps 7 through 10, putting us on the home stretch of where we see everyone ending up, as well as laying out what we think each weakness that each Path has that it will overcome at the end.

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Design Episode 65 :: Darkness before the Sunrise

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 05:01:29 GMT

The Hombres tackle two more premade characters! We introduce the world to Cirril - the goth pirate, with a longing in his soul and a song in his heart, and backing him up is Lady Sunrise, a swamp stomping hard knock blues artist from the honkiest tonkiest hive in Urd.

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Design Episode 64 :: Giving up the Ghost

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 05:01:23 GMT

Maxx debuts his first listener-submitted items. The Hombres reunite to tackle the big questions. What is life after death? Who lives here? How exactly does one Pounce?

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Design Episode 63 :: Iconics

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 04:01:47 GMT

The Hombres get back in the lab to tackle Step 6 Radiance, really giving them glowy bois the blasting power they need to match their dazzling personalities. Also, we discuss the utility of premade characters for beta testing and create a diverse dais of roguish roustabouts.

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Design Episode 62 :: State of the Art

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 04:01:41 GMT

The Hombres get our artist, Jarrod Pope on to talk about character design from the perspective of a player, an artist, and a game designer.

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Design Episode 61 :: X Marks the Man

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 04:01:22 GMT

In this episode, the Hombres get back into Step Six with Champion, get a surprise visit from a being beyond understanding, and throw a few bones to the Marksman players out there!

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Design Episode 60 :: Wondrous and Wacky

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 04:02:08 GMT

The gang gets further into the rules of death and dying. Radiance gets an upgrade in Step 3. Also, how do you deal with unfinished side quests as a GM?

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Design Episode 59 :: The Index

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 04:02:41 GMT

The Hombres get elbow deep into the organizational structure of The Leyliners and the history of the Akaenoshian Empire.

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Design Episode 58 :: Throwing the Fight

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 04:01:00 GMT

The Hombres get in your bags and sort 'em out. Think you're strong enough to bear the weight of this system? Think again. Better hire a Dillo to drag your piles of dyron and enchanted toilets. Only the strong get to pull a Riddick and keep what they kill. Maybe you can just throw it all away. What if you throw it at an enemy? Let's argue about it.

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Design Episode 57 :: Submissive and Readable

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 05:01:20 GMT

Join the Hombres this week as we discuss the ever-compelling topic of economics! Also, we discuss the kinds of parties that GMs should be balancing combat encounters around at every size.

Big news! There's also a new way for all of you to contribute. We are launching McGarrgl's Compendium of Wondrous and Wacky Items, a codex of user-submitted items for the world of Urd! All listeners can document the items they find via the Unique Item Submission Form.

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Design Episode 56 :: Secret Knowledge

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 20:31:25 GMT

What do you know? Are you willing to roll for it? Join the Hombres as they come up with guidelines for knowledge checks, light levels, and echolocation!

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Design Episode 55 :: Sunny Dispostion

Sat, 15 Jan 2022 20:34:27 GMT

In this episode, the Hombres hammer out a better version of Initiative, talk more about Opposed Rolls, and NPCs with attitude.

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Design Episode 54 :: Showing Initiative

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT

SURPRISE! Sneak Attack. We figure it out. Battle Readiness gets pulled apart and reassembled. Opposed rolls are thrown out, and Skill Checks are refined.

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Design Episode 53 :: Group Rolls

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT

Liam sits this one out while Doug, Josh, and Maxx go to town on the Savothian racial abilities. With the changes to Professions and combat actions, they could really use a replacement for Character Bonus. We also go in depth on skill checks and group rolling. Should everyone roll individually? Is the +2 from Aid in Pathfinder and D&D sufficient? We hash it out.

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Design Episode 52 :: Win Conditions

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT

An absolute banger. We fleshed out the religious foci of the Pharmacon Society, gave boosts to Command and Battle Order, and talked about alternate win conditions as a fundamental pillar of scene design.

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Design Episode 51 :: Send me a Letter

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT

We've got a great episode on our hands today. We create a fraternal order of physicians. We fix Champion's Challege, create a mail system for our world and have AWESOME news about the Wiki!

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Design Episode 50 :: WE'RE BACK!

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT

We're back, baby!

After braving the wilds of quarantine for over a year and a half, we have survived, gotten vaxx'd, and can now meet again in person, and we have SO much new to share with you.

- Upcoming free tabletop game using a block tower

- Updates about the Wiki

- Merging back into a single feed

- Update to patreon tiers

and more!

We're so excited to get back up to our previous speed and bring all of you along with us!

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Design Episode 49

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 13:55:24 GMT

The gang gets a special surprise and has a few top-down discussions about the game. Are players leveling up to fast? How long should a typical campaign last? Can players aid skill checks? Also, could we improve the terminology around adventures? Tune in to find out!

Show Notes!

https://nerdyshow.com/2020/11/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-49

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Design Episode 48

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Step 6 Citadel is in the bag! We also tackled another virtue in Zealotry to make sure that when it comes to combat, you're well armed.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2020/09/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-48

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Design Episode 47

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 04:00:00 GMT

We do some doomsday worldbuilding and tackle Scoundrel Step 6!

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Design Episode 46

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 17:50:07 GMT

In this episode, the hombres get further into Step 6 with Fire and Zealotry again! We also take a look at the lost civilization of Mtsen and who they used to be and what is left of them in the region.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2020/06/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-46

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Design Episode 45 :: Ice to Meet You

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 04:00:00 GMT

In our first completely remote episode, we listen to our Patrons' suggestions and just make some effin' monsters! We also spend some time chilling with our least-played path and find ourselves really warming up to it.

Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2020/04/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-45-ice-to-meet-you

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Design Episode 44 :: Stoopid Attacks

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Step 6 takes flight in Episode 44. We take a hard look at our first alternate step for Zealotry. Are wings broken in RPGs? We're about to find out. Citadel also gets its turn under the microscope, and we discover that it's already pretty good, but there's still plenty of room to improve.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2020/03/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-44-stoopid-attacks

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Leyliners 10 :: All Along the Watchtower

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT

The gang puts on their fancy new digs and their crummy old ones to ascend above the camp's formidable walls and deal with the team of skilled snipers who've been raining on their parade. It turns out to be both more and less dangerous than they feared!

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Design Episode 43 :: Hecka Dooms

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT

In this episode, the mighty Doug joins Liam and Josh as we wade into Step 6, focusing on Death with a sprinkle of theology as we talk about the direction and purpose of Zealotry going forward.

Thanks everyone for your patience! This one was released a little off-schedule, but after the 16th, we will be back to our regular release schedule as long as Covid 19 stays on the periphery.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/rpg-from-scratch-design-43-hecka-dooms

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Leyliners 9 :: Like Riding a Pike

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 05:00:00 GMT

The prisoners are freed, and there are no guards in sight, but they're still trapped in the fort and surrounded by enemies. Still hunting for their lost divining utensil, the gang storms the Larsan armory, ready to give them what-for, only to discover that a pair of monstrous meanies beat them to the punch.

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Design Episode 42 :: Flame War

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 15:08:45 GMT

Liam and Josh dig into the value of names in Game Design. We also discuss problems caused by Cookie Cutter Builds in RPG systems and try to build our own optimized 2 and 3-man parties to see if we always come to the same conclusions. Flame Orbs gets a total overhaul. Is it too good now? Let us know!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2020/02/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-42-flame-war

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Leyliners 8 :: Your Two Tents

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 05:00:00 GMT

The gang seizes the moment and goes full Thin Lizzy on the Larsan fort and take advantage of the confusion. They decide that more prisoners should be released, if not for the sake of pure compassion, then for their outspoken commitment to chaos. In so doing, they meet a familiar voice... and then his face.

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Design Episode 41 :: GM Quest'ions

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 22:12:39 GMT

Liam, Josh, and Maxx throw down on some of the most common GM'ing questions. How do you do loot? Skill checks? What about huge differences in power between player characters? Most importantly, how do you make a good villain?

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Leyliners 7 :: A Hill to Die on

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 05:00:00 GMT

The gang finally ventures outside the city proper and enmesh themselves in the vibrant and honest lives of the rural peoples of the land. Though they be strange of speech and impressively aromatic, they adapt quickly enough to land a 17-course meal of sauerkraut and ADVENTURE

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Design Episode 40 :: Jazz Hands

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 05:00:00 GMT

Liam and Josh review what benefits and limitations that going barehanded as a mage means in our system, as well as setting a roadmap for all of our Zealots in the future. We also end up creating a few items that will drive more dastardly characters to salivate.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2020/01/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-40-jazz-hands

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Leyliners 6 :: The Breakfast Club

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 05:00:00 GMT

Flummoxed and frustrated by the consequences that starting a city-wide riot has caused, the gang goes on a search for Stitto and revisits their priorities now that their timeline has accelerated.

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Design Episode 39 :: Volcano Girls

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 20:30:43 GMT

Maxx, Liam, and Josh talk about where the Paths are headed now that we're at the halfway point of their development. Should they have followers? New game mechanics? How powerful should you expect to be at Step 10? What level would John Wick be?

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2020/01/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-39-volcano-girls

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Leyliners 5 :: All Riot on the Western Front

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Is a riot the perfect opportunity to investigate a murder? What about the disappearance of Gaylene? No time to dwell on it. Paz needs intel, and she needs it before the city tears itself apart. Join the gang as they make some risky, and frankly irresponsible, plays trying to control the damage they've unleashed.

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Design Episode 38 :: Marked for Death

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Stealth. What is it? Where is it? Oh, you must have succeeded your check. Also, what kind of technology is normal for our world, and what does that mean for our mechanics? We also take a hard look at a perennial foe that could possibly take the place of Undead.

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/12/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-38-marked-for-death

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Review :: Strongholds & Followers

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 15:00:00 GMT

Liam and Josh review the much-anticipated and hyped D&D 5E supplement "Strongholds & Followers" by Matthew Colville and MCDM Productions.

Show notes: https://nerdyshow.com/2019/12/rpgfs_strongholds_and_followers/

You can find the book in hardcover or PDF at https://shop.mcdmproductions.com/products/strongholds-followers-hardcover-pdf

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Leyliners 4 :: Molotov Croc-Tail

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT

The gang bucks expectations and decides to get ahead of the upcoming discord by inciting the riot themselves! They get a full tour of the city with a gang of Skimmer Hooligans while they chase down Ajax and contend with Talon, his terrifyingly competent bodyguard.

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Design Episode 37 :: The Triple Threat

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Liam and Josh dig deep into intimidation, diplomacy and bluff to figure out exactly how all of you are going to swindle NPCs out of everything they own and love. We also throw some real world diseases into the mix with some sick rules.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/12/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-37-the-triple-threat

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Leyliners 3 :: Green and Gold

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Our world gets a new team sport, and it's all the rage. Preceeding the big game, despite the city's typical brand of danger, it is overcome with love and good cheer for the away team. Excited to get to work, but more excited for the upcoming event, the gang recruits Obed and a volatile fan-favorite to aid them in the search for Larsan influence.

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Design Episode 36 :: Prying Open My Mind's Eye

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT

In this quick one, Liam and Josh add some exoticism to our world by naming regions and their respective languages. We also talk about the validity of Initiative and Battle Order and how they pertain to our game, and discuss the problems for GMs who prefer to go gridless.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/11/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-36-prying-open-my-minds-eye

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Leyliners 02 :: Shellswine

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, the gang meets their handler and argues back and forth about which mission makes the most sense for them. Uncertain, they decide to hit the town to celebrate landing a 3-job deal before coming to a decision.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/11/leyliners002

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Design Episode 35 :: Who's the Good Guy?

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Our setting lacks obvious protagonists, so we create a few. Are you more at home in a continent-spanning adventurer's guild? How about an ancient order of ascetics that has the trust of the people? No, you want to skulk through the city as a spy with a heart of gold! Whatever you or your players fancy, we've got the plot hooks to land 'em.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/11/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-35-whos-the-good-guy

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Leyliners 1 :: Gettin' Docks'd

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT

The debut episode of our new Actual Play show, where a group of Anthropomorphic Scoundrels adventure and scheme in Earth's far-flung post-post-apocalyptic future. Follow the gang as they adventure and scheme in a violent and vibrant bay city full of listener-created characters living interwoven lives.

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Design Episode 34 :: Ol' Stumpy

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The gang wraps up Step 5 by polishing off Death, Command, Fire, and Champion! We also create a new undersea villain to plague all of your oceanic aspirations!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/10/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-34-ol-stumpy

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Gloomtown 07 :: Battlefield Promotions

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The story of Snarfs and Marshals goes out in a blaze of glory. Who brought the ships to the harbor? Where is the Sub-Governor? DOES Whitsnarf have a fire marshal? All is answered in the stunning conclusion of Gloomtown!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/10/rpg-from-scratch-gloomtown-07-battlefield-promotions

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Design Episode 33 :: Planting the zealot-tree

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Josh and Maxx talk about what can be done to help first-time GMs deal with planning combat encounters, generic enemies, and we round out the edges of Step 5 Zealotry, Ice, and Marksman!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/10/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-33-planting-the-zealot-tree

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Gloomtown 06 :: Four Cutthroats on Heirloom Boats

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The gang gets right up in the meat of the issue and all is revealed as every possible bit of excrement strikes the turbines. They deal with the supposed mutiny of their own fire Marshall and the very real mutiny of the Sub Governor's forces.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/10/rpg-from-scratch-gloomtown-06-four-cutthroats-on-heirloom-boats

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Design Ep. 32 :: The 5 Steps of the Magical Method

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we refine what's at the core of Marksmam before diving DEEP into Step 5. We tackle Citdadel, Marksman, and then show our clear favoritism for Radiance and support classes in general.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/09/rpg-from-scratch-design-ep-32-the-5-steps-of-the-magical-method

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Gloomtown 05 :: There-House

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The gang discovers a major conspiracy and gets frickin' ROWDY in the lakeborne town of Catchsnarf and try not to burn the whole place down in the process, ignorning every temptation.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/09/rpg-from-scratch-gloomtown-05-there-house

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Design Episode 31 :: His Eye is on the Arrow

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Liam and Josh fix Professions in our Artifacts game and completely destroy Marksman, but worry not, adventurers. We can rebuild him. We can make him better. Stronger. Faster.

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Gloomtown 04 :: Fire Marshal Arts

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Speaking with the Emperor's authority, the gang plows through every level of false bureaucrat determined to impede their progress towards the center of the sickness plaguing the Snarftowns, discovering innovations heretofore unheard of by mortal men... but just barely.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/rpg-from-scratch-gloomtown-04-fire-marshal-arts

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Design Episode 30 :: Secret Level

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

We discuss new ways to level up and introduce a host of new artifacts into the world of our game. Need a really bad flashlight? How about a fanny pack? We've got you covered!

Show notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/08/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-30-secret-level

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Gloomtown 03 :: Convicted Melons

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The Marshalls are dealt a devastating blow when Bentley receives troubling news from the capital. Their morale cannot be quenched, however, as they find plot seeds leading inexorably towards Fort Oderax.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/08/rpg-from-scratch-gloomtown-03-convicted-melons

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Design Episode 29 :: Rails in the Sand

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Doug and Josh discuss campaign design differences between on-rails and sandbox campaigns as well as the finer points of designing effective NPCs, getting back to the plot, and the prevalence of magic in our game.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/08/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-29-rails-in-the-sand

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Gloomtown 02 :: Catching Lies with Honey

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The Marshals split the party and begin their investigation into the amber-hued plague known as "gloomsmite" in earnest. They find that things are far more complicated than the sub-Governor would have us believe. Join the bees with us, and get buzzed.

#TTRPG #ActualPlay #Podcast

https://buff.ly/2yD7pgu

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Design Episode 28 :: Archer-REEEE

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

We discuss the merits of Magic: The Gathering, how to keep your players from saying "okay, we do that," and how to describe things in a way that's better for your players. We also whip out the nerf bat and argue about the future of Marksmen in our game.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/07/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-28-archer-reeee

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Gloomtown 01 :: A River Runs Through Whit

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 04:01:00 GMT

We meet our new rag-tag group of Akaenoshian Marshalls who've been sold up the river to deal with a small town's Temperance movement and the multiple conspiracies that have popped up to undermine it. Nobody knows that they're the wrong folks for the job... except themselves.

An all-new campaign kicks off in GLOOMTOWN!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/07/rpg-from-scratch-gloomtown-01-a-river-runs-through-whit

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Design Episode 27 :: OMGMPC

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Thinking about making a GM PC? Think hard. We talk about our experiences and possible pitfalls regarding this controversial NPC type. Also, we make more monsters, artifacts, and rituals alongside a pair of wacky new questgivers for anyone to use!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/07/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-27-omgmpc

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Gloomtown :: Session Zero

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT

We plan our THIRD CAMPAIGN - this time, with Maxx at the helm. Doug, Liam, Josh, and our great friend Ouzts set about the evergreen task of creating compelling and interesting adventurers for our evolving game world. If you are starting a new tabletop adventure, listen in. You may be inspired!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/07/rpg-from-scratch-gloomtown-session-zero

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Design Episode 26 :: We're off to See the Lizard

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The gang shares their first GMing experiences, how nervous we were, and our biggest mistakes. We also dig into one of the biggest and oldest cultures of our word: the crocodilian and megalithic Mera! Would you like to wind up as an overfed, blind, idiot god? Listen in!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/07/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-26-were-off-to-see-the-lizard

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Agnes' Ashes 8 :: Ex Post Artifacto

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Like a conscientious part-time lover, we wrap it up in this episode. The gang finishes with The Eighth Hand, discusses some new business ideas and finds out the dubious fate of Post, the out... post. Say thank you and goodnight to The Wing Mob in our final episode of Agnes' Ashes!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/06/rpg-from-scratch-agnes-ashes-ex-post-artifacto

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Book Review :: The Ultimate RPG Character Backstory Guide

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

We take our first foray into product reviews with one dedicated to helping you make better characters and share our thoughts on its usefulness both on and off the table.

This particular gem is written by James D'amato of the OneShot Podcast network. Let us know if it's something you'd consider using with your group.

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Design Episode 25 :: Face-Off

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Should you always avoid splitting the party, or is that an eventuality that you've just gotta accept? On the world building front, we name the quarters of our year, detail the kinds of creatures Necromancers can employ, and create some really gnarly rituals!

Show notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/06/design-episode-25-face-off

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Agnes' Ashes 7 :: Flowers for Adonis

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The Wing Mob mops up the mess they made of the monster and his minions, making a mad march out of the makeshift mortuary, meticulously mediating their monopoly on the macabre. More madness materializes as the murderers from their memories enter the melee.

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Design Episode 24 :: Mandatory Vacations

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

In this design episode, we get deep in the juice of downtime. How much should characters have? Do adventures move too quickly? Is tracking time important for the feel of a grand adventure? FIND OUT!

Show Notes and More:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/06/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-24-mandatory-vacations

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Agnes' Ashes 6 :: All Mixed Up

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The Wing Mob delves further into the underground structure, leaving safety and their consciences behind as their focus shifts to victory and profit at all costs. Grandon squares up as the true mastermind of the Pawa's evolution is revealed!

Show notes and More!

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/06/rpg-from-scratch-agnes-ashes-all-mixed-up

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Design Episode 23 :: Taming of the Elephant Shrew

Mon, 27 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

We take another deep-dive into the structure of our world, solidifying the corners of our calendar and its relation to celestial events and mythos. Doug shares his frustrations and insights at playing Citadel, and we have a long conversation about the common pitfalls of riding gorillas.

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/05/episode-23-taming-the-elephant-shrew

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Agnes' Ashes 5 :: Arms Races

Mon, 20 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The Wing Mob, both sound of body and full of belly, set off to confront the Flesh Shaper in his very own Labattoir and find that there is far more to this experiment and its progenitor than meets the eye...

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/05/rpg-from-scratch-agnes-ashes-arms-races

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Design Episode 22 :: Sadistical Distribution

Mon, 13 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The crew dishes out GMing advice on how to deal with problem players without ruining your game and how to manage complex combat encounters without losing your mind. We also delve deep into chance-to-hit as a concept and what it means for our system.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/04/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-22-sadistical-distribution

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Agnes' Ashes 4 :: Primordial Soup

Mon, 06 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT

The Wing Mob are deep in the Pawa keep and trading blows with a houndmaster, his spiky juggernauts, and his chimeric canines. Soaked in blood and reeling from battle, the team discovers an old friend and learns about the true maestro of their misfortunes.

Show notes and more:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/04/rpg-from-scratch-agnes-ashes-primordial-soup

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Design Episode 21 :: Coat of Harms

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

We introduce the concept of Heraldy and what it means for Citadel players wanting to be known throughout the world of Urd. Encumbrance is discussed, and Crafting gets refined for those of us who prefer to make our own arms, armor, and potions.

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Agnes' Ashes 3 :: Ra Ra, Fight the Pawa!

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

In the third part of Angela's Ashes, The Wing Mob dives headlong into the woods with Champ the 'dillo in tow, searching for Ned and the reason for the militarization of the Pawa. What they find both amazes and disgusts them.

Show notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/04/rpg-from-scratch-agnes-ashes-ra-ra-fight-the-pawa

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Design Episode 20 :: Deviling Up

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

We build a set of level 10 characters to see how much bookkeeping is involved with everything we have already made and run a mock boss battle to see what it's like to really use our Dice Tier system in late game.

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Agnes' Ashes 2 :: Dillo Talk

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Come one, come all! See The Wing Mob in action! Chookie shows off her cooking skills, Ned has a couple of surprises for us, we learn about the majestic wildlife of Urd, and our campaign leaps into an action-packed fray!

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/04/rpg-from-scratch-agnes-ashes-dillo-talk

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Design Episode 19 :: Standard Operating Procedure

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Before wading chest-deep back into Step 4, we ruminate about what our new campaign says about our mechanics, and we introduce static attribute defenses. Join us as we tackle Citadel, Champion, Scoundrel, Zealotry, and Radiance!

Show notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/03/design-episode-19-standard-operating-procedure

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Agnes' Ashes 1 :: Quad Fisting It

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Meet The Wing Mob, a small mercenary band on their way to deliver their boss' remains to her native sea. Passing through the Countryside of Galthreach, things are tense. There's a civil war on and the busiest merchant corridor has been disrupted by disappearances - neither side knows why. In an effort to make some much needed scratch, Wing Mob quickly become involved in an eerie and highly clandestine contract to escort a strange man down that very route.

Meet Frixa (Josh LaForge), the Tiktani who took Agnes' title as boss - much to the chagrin of her adopted daughter, the chef and fire-casting Krex, Chookie (Cap Blackard). They're joined by the soft spoken and polite, yet immovable as stone Toldun, Grandon (Doug Banks); and Slish (Maxx Wessel) the mustachioed Gelt sea dog - a former merchant marine and faithful Skimmer.

Do Wing Mob have what it takes to rebuild, or will the loss of their leader and disarray under the new administration bring their destruction on this dubious mission?

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/03/agnes-ashes-quad-fisting-it

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Design Episode 18 :: The Waltz to Step 4

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Riding the high of our upcoming Actual Play campaign, we talk about potential balance issues and settle on terminology for our Dice Tier system before diving feet-first into Step 4, creating new abilities for Decay, Command, Champion, Fire and Ice. Listen in and get ready to spend some Momentum!

Show notes:

https://buff.ly/2UukFgM

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Agnes' Ashes :: Session Zero

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT

It's time for a new campaign and a new actual play podcast!

Liam takes the helm in GMing and Josh and Doug finally get the chance to play the game they've been building these last few months. Also joining the players as a wildcard is the den mother of The Nerdy Show Network, herself: Cap Blackard!

In this preemptive episode, we build our characters from scratch and end up with a truly unique group of adventurers.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/03/rpg-from-scratch-agnes-ashes-session-zero

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Design Episode 17 :: Soul Magic

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Following the Grand Finale of our first actual play campaign, we further mill around the subject of damage scaling and debate the rules and terminology of an entirely new school of magic! Listen in and get pumped with us for the next phase of your favorite podcast!

Show notes: https://nerdyshow.com/2019/02/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-17-soul-magic

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Echoes of the Starcrypt :: Part 14

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

It is the END! The gang confronts Kalavon AND Forsha and reveal the true nature of this incomprehensible dungeon in a finale that will shake the foundations of Urd. As we say goodbye to the characters we know and love, we look forward to the future and what it brings for our erstwhile band.

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Design Episode 16 :: Neverending Compromises

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

We go over some mild party drama and talk about how to resolve it, but the real meat of this episode is where we dive off the cliff into the dangerous waters of damage scaling. Our proposed solution is guaranteed to be controversial, but if geeks like us enjoy anything, it's arguing.

Show notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/01/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-16-neverending-compromises

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Echoes of the Starcrypt :: Part 13

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Which horrors are revealed and which are vanquished by the return of light to this pit of secrets? The gang discovers the source of the noise deep in the Earth and reunite with an old acquaintance as discord spreads between them, believing this to be their final moment.

Show Notes:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/01/rpg-from-scratch-echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-13

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Design Episode 15 :: Session Zeroes to Heroes

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

We delve into our hopes and dreams when preparing to sit down with a new gaming group. Also, What is magic? Is it the power that underlies all reality, like The Force? Is it an alien essence being unknowingly mined by the collective unconscious for the benefit of our devourers? Is it like trying to tell a stranger about rock and roll?

We don't know! Let's just make something up.

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/01/design-episode-15-session-zeroes-to-heroes

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Echoes of the Starcrypt :: Part 12

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT

The mole is vanquished, and the gang has drawn the ire of a caretaker of this forsaken tomb. Dare you learn the secrets it keeps? Our heroes gain an insight to the very nature of this structure, and it greatly disturbs them.

Show notes and more:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/01/echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-12/

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Design Episode 14 :: Politics and Religion

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT

We commit the ultimate party faux pas and delve deep into the cultural and political strife of our world, coming up with 3 distinct religions and give names to those who would be Emperors.

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2019/01/episode-14-politics-and-religion

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Echoes of the Starcrypt - Part 11

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT

The gang scrambles to face down the giant mole! Who sent it? Is it the creature that has terrorized Clan Nargabar and The Way Forward? Listen in as they discover more about this creature and the nature of the site itself.

Notes and more:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/12/rpg-from-scratch-echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-11

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Design Episode 13 :: Don't Be a Martyr

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Want to go Core Radiance but feellt underwhelmed at unfairly targeted by Martyr? You're in luck! Along with rounding out some corners, we discuss some pie-in-the-sky Path ideas to see if anything from them is worth stealing for our current ones. We also finally begin our difficult conversation about Magick as a system.

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/12/episode-13-dont-be-a-martyr

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Echoes of the Starcrypt :: Part 10

Mon, 31 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

It turns out our party is by no means alone within the bowels of this alien ruin... and neither is whatever is chasing them! Listen in as we make a series of extremely questionable moral decisions while ignoring any and all integrity of the profession of Archaeology.

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/12/echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-10

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Design Episode 12 :: Under One Condition

Mon, 24 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

We come up with a new game name, patch up some small holes, do away with ammunition tracking, add a HoT spell, and dig deep into the meat of what conditions you gain when you fall to 0 HP, making our game riskier than ever for PCs. Listen in, and crawl your way out of a dungeon together with your Homebrew Hombres!

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Echoes of the Starcrypt :: Part 9

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Your favorite crew of miscreants begins their very first dungeon crawl: forsaking fresh air and sunlight for the horrifying secrets beneath the earth. Listen in as they brave the mysteries of the ancients and discover what haunts these ruins.

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Design Episode 11 :: The Rest of Your Life

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

We ratchet up the difficulty by deciding what happens when characters fall to 0 HP (and fail to get a full night's rest). We also come up with an elegant way of creating and using potions.

Along with ironing out a half-dozen other small details, we bring up the feedback from one of our Patrons and work it into our game. Pitch-in and listen-in!

Notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/11/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-11-the-rest-of-your-life

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Echoes of the Starcrypt :: Part 8

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

In Part 8 of our Actual Play campaign, the crew finds a glut of clues and tries to find a way to care for the four lost children, while engaging in intense debates about the scrolls, Forsha, and whether or not crocodiles have beards.

Show notes and more at:.

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/11/rpg-from-scratch-echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-8

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Design Episode 10 :: Break a Leg!

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

We recently took Scratch Dice to AVL Scarefest in North Carolina and in this episode we recap our experience running our game for strangers and share some of the excellent feedback we received. We completely revamp how we handle Death and Dying as well as throw in some lingering effects for those who touch the void. How many broken legs do you want? We have them on special!

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/11/rpgfs-design-episode-10-break-a-leg

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Echoes of the Starcrypt :: Part 7

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

In Part 7 of our Actual-Play campaign, Two new characters join our crew of misfit diggers, a Seagull Krex and a Betta Fish Savothian, and after some tense contract negotiations, they agree to help track down the Howards and find the missing children. What awaits them is nothing less than horror and extreme peril!

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/11/rpg-from-scratch-echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-7

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Design Episode 9 :: An Exercise in Utility

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we dig DEEP into Step 3 and give each Path a distinct utility ability for use both in and out of combat. We think you'll all really dig the direction we are taking Decay. Additionally, we create a set of item kits that augment skill checks and can be shared by the entire party. Gear Up and Get Down with us in Episode 9, An Exercise in Utility

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/10/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-9-an-exercise-in-utility

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Echoes of the Starcrypt :: Part 6

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we bid farewell to both Von Van DeVin and his player, Katie. In searching from missing children with Aster, they are beset upon by a tribe of savages unlike anything they have ever seen, except that there is something eerily familiar about their composition and the way they "act," but THE SHOW MUST GO ON in Part 6 of Echoes of the Starcrypt!

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/10/rpg-from-scratch-echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-6

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Design Episode 8 :: Chaos Dice

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 04:00:00 GMT

We take a hard look at the Paths of Scoundrel and Command in this episode, redesigning their respective roles within the party. We also find an elegant solution to the idea of rewarding GMs for inventive or praise-worthy effort by introducing the concept of Chaos Points. Primarily, however, we give our great friend Katie an exit interview about the system as she prepares to move on to bigger and better things. She will be missed, but the show must go on!

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/10/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-8-chaos-dice

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Echoes of the Starcrypt - Part 5

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 04:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we go full RP-crazy, delving deep into the overwhelming variety of current crises looming over our "heroes." After last episode, they have injured and casualties and Forsha to deal with as well as a host of competing high-risk interests, including the introduction of our first Patreon-created custom NPC! It's great fun and tons of laughs this week on Echoes of the Starcrypt part 5!

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/09/rpg-from-scratch-echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-5

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Design Episode 7 :: Doing the Two-Step

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 04:00:00 GMT

In this design episode, we two-step Path-by-Path and add Step 2. We're just GIVING abilities away. Look under your seat, listener! Is that a Daily? Congratulations! We also focus on our Upper Hand mechanic and what it really means to flank someone as well as open some old wounds about selfish GMs and talk about if there's any way that a gaming system can guide people out of that pit.

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/10/design-episode-7-doing-the-two-step

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Echoes of the Starcrypt - Part 4

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 04:00:00 GMT

The adventurers have found themselves buried among the artifacts that they were looking for as war rages overhead between their employees and the barbaric clan Nargabar. They still have the injured Kydwe and ornery Forsha to contend with. Once they get topside, the chaos is revealed, and nothing is as they expect. How many have their enemies brought? Where is Aster? Are any of their crew still alive? What is beyond the dust cloud? Will the amulet they found yield any answers?

Find out in Part 4 of Echoes of the Starcrypt!

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/10/echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-4

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Design Episode 6 :: What's in a Name?

Mon, 01 Oct 2018 04:00:00 GMT

We get BACK into Worldbuilding in this one. After tying up some mechanical loose ends discovered in the playtests so far, the Homebrew Hombres get deep into the playable races and three cultures for each. Maybe you want to play a humanoid owl from the benighted Krex forests or a sentient ant-person obsessed with discovering philosophical truths for his millions of brothers and sisters, or maybe you just want to be a Made Man. Come along and brainstorm with us as we add some real texture to the world of Urd.

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/10/design-episode-6-whats-in-a-name

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Echoes of the Starcrypt - Part 3

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 04:49:15 GMT

In the 3rd chapter of our actual play, Echoes of the Starcrypt, an ominous question lingers: Do they truly sit atop an ancient Guf ruin?

The crew meet a pair of rangers, Aster and Kydwe, who brief them about the crisis of the missing Guf children. Who have taken them? Is it the cultists of The Way Forward or another as-yet unseen threat? No time to speculate! A recent choice comes back to haunt the party, and they get their first taste of what horrors await beneath their feet, while tensions above ground reach a fever pitch.

Show notes and more at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/09/rpg-from-scratch-echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-3

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Design Episode 5 :: Slot Shaming

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 04:00:00 GMT

We're breaking our world apart to reassemble it as we see fit - revealing a host of unexpected geographical prejudices. What creatures are our world's dragons or tarrasques? Are they moose? We also discuss the scaling of weapon damage, reach weaponry, and what constitutes as a slot for a character's carrying capacity.

Show Notes and more at : https://nerdyshow.com/2018/09/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-5-slot-shaming

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Echoes of the Starcrypt - Part 2

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 04:00:00 GMT

Our ill-fated adventurers run afoul of a local tribe, revealing a world of ancient rivalries, political intrigue, and an ongoing crisis. Also, they're introduced to the newest member of their group; an eccentric Eschwen who has a story yet to tell - but not before he is sent alone into unknown danger as a way to prove himself.

Or is it just rookie hazing? Find out, brave listener, in Echoes of the Starcrypt part 2!

Show notes and MORE at:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/08/rpg-from-scratch-echoes-of-the-starcrypt-part-2

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Design Episode 4 :: That Zealot of Nuts!

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 04:01:00 GMT

Join us for a massive exploration of what's come so far and where we're headed. We recap our thoughts on the playtest, make some changes to Path of Radiance, and give Path of Zealotry the unique touch it deserves. Also, we make some minor shifts to Path of Decay, settle on a rule for Bashing weapons, and talk about our problems with Charisma... in the game.

Not OUR problems with Charisma.

We're very charismatic.

Show notes and more at https://nerdyshow.com/2018/08/rpg-from-scratch-design-that-zealot-of-nuts

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Echoes of the Starcrypt - Part 1

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 04:01:00 GMT

In our very first playtest, we meet the four adventurers who are setting out on a peculiar archeological dig with dire portents. Meet their benefactor, a small-yet-stately bug man; their cook, an aging crocodile with a headmaster's air; and their diviner, a surly and opinionated wolverine.

The wildlands of Gravore are rife with conflict, and we get to see how our party reacts when it finds them at their campfire.

Meet unique characters and foreboding cults in Echoes of the Starcrypt!

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Design Episode 3 :: They Took the Moon!

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 04:01:00 GMT

We discuss the currency system of our world. Is it based on credit? Bank notes? A natural resource?

What is our Moon situation? Do we still have one?

What special exception to the game rules is at the Core of a Path? What makes them unique in a way that will matter no matter how powerful your character gets?

We also give each non-Human race their own per-Scene attack, really making them feel unique!

Show notes and more at https://nerdyshow.com/2018/08/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-3/

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Design Episode 2 :: A Priest, a Grifter, and a Crocodile walk into a bar...

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 04:01:00 GMT

In this episode, we meet the people who will be playing our first campaign and get to work on what kind of story we want to tell and what kind of characters will be working together to experience the mysterious world of Urd!

Do we need a tank? A healer? Which of Liam's fetishes is he going to force on us through his choices? Find out for yourself!

Episode details and more at https://nerdyshow.com/2018/08/rpg-from-scratch-design-episode-2/

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Design Episode 1 :: Our Game Gets a Name

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 04:01:00 GMT

In our first episode, the Homebrew Hombres introduce the D&D-style game that they're trying to build - as well as share their gripes about the previous systems they've played, and how theirs will be different while balancing the twin needs of roleplayers and rollplayers everywhere.

Laughalong as they try to play the game and fix it at the same time. It's like watching someone sewing their own parachute after getting thrown out of a plane. You and your friends can even play along and curse our names from the comfort of your own home!

For links and more info, head to the main episode page:

https://nerdyshow.com/2018/08/rpg-from-scratch-our-game-gets-a-name

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Roll With RPG From Scratch!

Sun, 05 Aug 2018 17:52:03 GMT

Ever wanted to create your own tabletop RPG? Imagine it: a gleaming, glorious system combining everything you love about gaming and dropping the crap you can’t stand. Join us on a D.I.Y. docu-quest for tabletop roleplaying perfection as we design, test, and rebalance our own RPG From Scratch!

Follow this misfit band of homebrew hombres as they chronicle their tabletop trials and errors, grapple with game design, explore the art of mechanics and storytelling, adventure through epic playtesting campaigns, and inch ever close to building a roleplaying game that meets all of their needs with the end goal of sharing it with the world. New episodes every Monday.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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