Episodes

3d ago

Paying your DM can change the dynamic at your D&D table, but do paid dungeon masters ruin the TTRPG hobby for everyone? Meanwhile, WotC makes a pact for the next D&D video game: Warlock! LAST CHANCE to Late Pledge to Grim Hollow: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - Divinity trailer 04:24 - Warlock D&D game 19:43 - Jason Carl departs White Wolf 24:30 - New head of D&D! 26:59 - Holiday stream schedule 28:55 - Finding regular players 40:54 - Paid GMing

Dec 10

The Cosmere RPG set the record for TTRPG crowdfunding and then vanished? So where did it go? Meanwhile D&D Beyond plans for the future and why is Jubensha the best roleplaying game you've never heard of? Enter the Enchanting Emporiums with 30% off (use EE30): https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ELEE_2025_12_219 People Make Games⁩ Jubensha documentary: https://youtu.be/6_dlxbGUNNQ?si Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Brooks: @brookstho Editor: Jess Berthelsen-Murray Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:50 - Is Cosmere over already? 14:46 - Jubensha (scripted murder) 28:43 - An Italian 5e adventure 31:40 - Future for D&D Beyond 39:38 - Enchanting Emporiums 43:09 - Evil Hat Production pitches 45:05 - Make 5e combat challenging

Dec 3

D&D sales figures expose the REAL popularity of 5e 2024, we're give our gift giving guide for the TTRPG fan in your life, and discuss how to bring adventure campaigns to that satisfying conclusion! Transform your wardrobe at the Ghostfire merch store: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_Store_2025_11_204 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:13 - TTRPG gift guide 05:09 - D&D sales lies! 19:02 - Restarting a Campaign after hiatus 30:28 - Satisfying campaign endings

Nov 26

Has Daggerheart conquered Pathfinder as the #2 most popular TTRPG? Is D&D 5e next on the chopping block? Or is the success of Darrington Press all smoke & mirrors? FINAL WEEK of Dungeons of Drakkenheim: Daggerheart - https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_DKDH_2025_10_210 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Adam: @RetroArchetype Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:45 - 2nd most popular TTRPG? 09:03 - Is Daggerheart new #2? 18:09 - Daggerheart: Hope & Fear 22:21 - Daggerheart adventure module 25:21 - Ed Greenwood rewrites Forgotten Realms 28:44 - TTRPG player skill types 42:24 - Skill challenges (that actually work!)

Nov 19

The Mighty Nein animated show gets pulled from YouTube ahead of it's Amazon release! The D&D Netflix series could be in trouble, and is there a difference between game crunch and 'control', and which camp do 5e, Daggerheart or Draw Steel fall into? Transform your wardrobe at the Ghostfire merch store: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_Store_2025_11_204 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Too many stat blocks? 08:17 - Mighty Nein animated series 12:11 - D&D Netflix 22:01 - Forgotten Realms books delay 23:10 - D&D Nexus rebrand 29:30 - Kickstarter strike ends 31:08 - Ghostfire Gaming merch 33:30 - rules crunch & control 49:18 - System agnostic adventures

Nov 12

Hero Forge divides fans with a licensing agreement, the Fantasy Grounds VTT goes Free-to-Play, and should D&D bring Prestige Classes back to 5e 2024? Check out the Ghostfire merch store: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_Store_2025_11_204 Delve into the Dungeons of Drakkenheim: Daggerheart - https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_DKDH_2025_10_210 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:23 - Evil player-characters 08:40 - Dark Sun? 11:03 - Moonbeam wanes 19:43 - Hero Forge controversy! 37:48 - Fantasy Grounds goes FTP 42:36 - Prestige classes in 5e 2024

Nov 5

Daggerheart launches its first adventure module Kickstarter set in the eldritch city of Drakkenheim! The Blood Hunter also finds its way into Daggerheart while D&D revives Xanathar's subclasses through Unearthed Arcana. Delve into the Dungeons of Drakkenheim: Daggerheart - https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_DKDH_2025_10_210 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Min/Maxing combos 06:32 - Daggerheart's first adventure 16:43 - Blood Hunter in Daggerheart 21:38 - Unearth Arcana: Subclasses 38:17 - D&D's new T&C's 45:32 - Tariff relief? 46:42 - Making Con adventures fun

Oct 28

Sigil has failed its final death save! Is D&D Beyond Maps a good enough replacement? Dragonlance gets resurrected, 5e 2024 could be the most successful edition yet, and what level should you start your campaign? Delve into the Dungeons of Drakkenheim: Daggerheart - https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_DKDH_2025_10_210 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:20 - Games of paranoia 05:27 - Critical Role goes mainstreamer 09:03 - Daylight savings 09:47 - Sigil laid to rest 15:09 - Dungeons of Drakkenheim: Daggerheart 17:32 - Dragonlance returns? 26:34 - 5e 2024 is D&D's fastest seller 30:56 - Best D&D starting level? 48:39 - Narrative leveling

Oct 22

D&D 5e makes magic a group activity with new Circle Casting, Critical Role pushes actual play further as a performance art, and we debate whether a TTRPG is a Shared Story or an Interactive Narrative. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:17 - D&D's new circle casting 14:10 - Critical Role pushes the industry 23:48 - Passing of Rob Wieland 24:33 - Tariff warning 25:49 - Shared storytelling vs Interactive narrative

Oct 15

How is a D&D Liveplay different from your home game? Diana Fay and Adam Carnevale help explain what makes a TTRPG Liveplay good! Also, should you tinker with 5e monster rules? How do you play test your own homebrew? Do we need to evacuate? Check out 'Elder Gods And Dragons' & Scryglass Studio: https://www.egnd.com.au/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Adam: @RetroArchetype Diana: ⁨@DianaOfTheRose⁩ Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - DON'T start a liveplay 10:34 - Scryglass Studio 11:15 - PAX Aus recap 17:03 - Critical Role cartoon updates 22:00 - Players surprising GM's 29:31 - Should you homebrew monsters? 38:01 - Evacuation! 42:44 - How to playtest homebrew 58:51 - Changing D&D's cosmology

Oct 8

Darrington Press attracts HUGE 3rd party talent like the Dungeon Dudes, who announce Dungeons of Drakkenheim: Daggerheart. The Mighty Nein on Amazon gets a launch date, WotC want MOAR D&D video games, and a new 5e 2024 Psion drops in Unearthed Arcana. Delve into the Dungeons of Drakkenheim: Daggerheart - https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_DKDH_2025_10_210 Sign up to play at PAX Aus: https://ghostfiregaming.odoo.com/events Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Monty: @montycmartin Kelly: @kaiinreallife Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:18 - Writing TTRPG worlds 10:56 - Daggerheart in Drakkenheim! 27:00 - Mighty Nein launch date 38:57 - PAX Aus & Gamehole Con 41:12 - MORE D&D video games 43:00 - Kickstarter United strike 44:32 - Unearthed Arcana: Psion

Oct 6

Do the Fey of Lorwyn fit into the Forgotten Realms? Is there a better MtG crossover for 5e 2024? The Grim Hollow Campaign Guide erupts onto D&D Beyond, Stranger Things gets a new box set, and we ponder what power is in a True Name? Get the Grim Hollow Campaign Guide on D&D Beyond! https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHPG_2025_2_204 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin LaTia: @latiajacquise Adam: @retroarchetype Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:04 - Dream MtG crossovers 09:29 - Lorwyn First Light 24:52 - Grim Hollow Campaign Guide 32:42 - D&D Beyond updates 38:19 - D&D Starter Set 42:44 - Stranger Things Box Set 46:26 - True Names of the fey

Sep 24

Is Unearthed Arcana becoming a problem for WotC? Has 5e 2024 finally gotten the Arcane Archer right? Which D&D edition is the most expensive? What are your thoughts on homebrew? RACE to get Torque Borg by clicking THIS LINK! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/977140613/torque-borg-a-wasteland-rpg?ref=1fwvx3 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Reasons to play TTRPG's 06:29 - Unearthed Arcana (again!) 18:19 - Torque Borg 22:48 - Most expensive D&D edition? 33:04 - TTRPG in the EU retail market 39:57 - Thoughts on homebrew?

Sep 17

What are the best adventures for introducing new players to D&D 5e? Does the new Starter Set, Heroes of the Borderlands, truly have it all? UNLOCK the Dark Fantasy Construction Kit from Arkenforge: https://bit.ly/Darkenforge Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 07:34 - D&D's new Starter Set 17:45 - Dark fantasy construction kit 21:32 - Witcher Watch 23:26 - Do evil gods matter? 40:58 - Should GMs help players? 48:28 - Breaking in as a freelancer

Sep 10

Wizards of the Coast chart their future D&D plans as a franchise, we explore whether a TTRPG should be balanced or fun, and there's IMPORTANT late-breaking Critical Role news! LAST CHANCE to Set Sail on the Aetherial Expanse: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AEDG_2025_7_933Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:53 - Aetherial Expanse ENDING soon! 07:54 - Critical Role play with puppies 08:44 - WotC plans for the future 23:29 - Is AI actually the future? 33:37 - Adventures with TOO MANY choices 43:25 - Does game balance matter?

Sep 3

Do players EVER actually have choices in prewritten adventures? Is the sandbox purely an illusion? How do TTRPG game designers ensure characters have agency choosing their path forward? An Aetherial Expanse adventure is coming to Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AEDG_2025_7_933 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Erin: @nirele Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:58 - The Faithless Wench of TTRPG's 04:55 - Dreams of the Drowned God 21:00 - ANOTHER another D&D video game 26:51 - 5e returns to Brazil 27:45 - Are ALL adventures linear?

Aug 27

Why NOBODY predicted Critical Role would choose D&D over Daggerheart! And what does a West Marches style campaign mean for Campaign 4? We also invoke the dreaded name of Dark Sun! Get the Grim Hollow Player's Guide on D&D Beyond! https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHPG_2025_2_204 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin James: @jamesjhaeck Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:16 - A Lorecast actual play? 05:16 - Critical Role choose D&D! 18:20 - Critical Role and West Marches 32:06 - Grim Hollow launches on D&D Beyond! 35:52 - Unearthed Arcana hints at Dark Sun

Aug 20

In the OGL aftermath and the full release of D&D 2024, is the game better or worse than it's ever been? Is 5e 2024 actually better than 5e 2014? An Aetherial Expanse adventure is coming to Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AEDG_2025_7_933 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Mike: ⁨@SlyFlourish⁩ Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - The Aftermath of the OGL 17:51 - Is D&D 2024 better than 2014? 36:15 - Baldur's Gate 4? 40:07 - New 5e Adventure module! 45:03 - How to plan campaign narratives

Aug 13

Todd Kenreck helps us to ponder which community members should WotC choose for the D&D Advisory Panel? Gen Con hits record attendance! Then we settle in to build cozy homes and grimdark worlds for your TTRPG adventures. An Aetherial Expanse adventure is coming to Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AEDG_2025_7_933 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Todd: ⁨@ToddKenreck⁩ Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:34 - The future for Todd Kenreck 17:53 - D&D advisory panel 24:22 - Gen Con record attendance 29:15 - Cozy bastions 46:05 - Dark fantasy adventure building

Aug 6

Brennan Lee Mulligan takes over Critical Role, Ghostfire Gaming launches an Organized Play campaign, MCDM releases Draw Steel, and Paizo puts a 5e adventure on D&D Beyond! It's been a long Gen Con... Learn more about the Grim Hunt: https://ghostfiregaming.com/resources/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Hannah: @AmazingSpidrHan Editor: @ZsDante Topics:00:00 - Intro 01:59 - Gen Con 2025 10:35 - Draw Steel goes live 13:43 - Brennan to DM Critical Role 19:47 - Paizo now on D&D Beyond! 24:42 - D&D's new direction 33:45 - Faerun sneak peaks 47:09 - Tariffs impacting overseas games 50:32 - Listener appreciation

Jul 30

D&D Beyond teases digital DLC for the Forgotten Realms setting books, while Nott the Brave teases town guards in the new Critical Role animated series. We also celebrate 200 episodes of this here podcast! A new Aetherial Expans adventure is coming to Kickstarter:https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AEDG_2025_7_933 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:52 - Forgotten Realms book reveals 10:40 - D&D Beyond DLC 18:01 - Stranger Things starter set 24:25 - Aetherial Expanse adventure 27:04 - New Critical Role animated seasons 32:31 - 200th Episode quiz

Jul 23

Critical Role announces their first video game, WotC boasts the BIGGEST D&D starter set ever, Eberron is delayed, and is "D&D in a Castle" offering a new career path? Unlock the Grim Hollow Player's Guide, today! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=3hjfbf Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:12 - TTRPG from video games 06:41 - Starfinder video game 10:28 - Critical Role's video game 17:08 - Grim Hollow: The Player’s Guide releases 19:35 - D&D's BIGGEST ever starter set 27:42 - New Stranger Things D&D box set 33:54 - Eberron book delayed 35:54 - Green Ronin vs Diamond 40:05 - Draughts worker strike 41:16 - D&D DM University

Jul 16

Big changes for D&D as Wizards of the Coast step towards a franchise model, while Darrington Press take their next big steps as a TTRPG publisher! Also, what exactly IS a Warlock or a Rogue? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Logan: ⁨@Runesmith⁩ Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 07:01 - D&D becoming a "franchise" 21:19 - Darrington Press levels up! 27:31 - Gen Con update 32:32 - D&D Classes core fantasy 52:37 - Obsolete design ideas

Jul 9

How impactful SHOULD character death be in a TTRPG like Daggerheart or D&D? We ponder this while Paizo experiences book delays, the ENNIE awards are announced, and we decide what monster manuals to make! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:46 - Shopping at FLGS 07:26 - Diamond bankruptcy 13:43 - Board game cafe strike 19:31 - ENNIE nominations 21:42 - Handling character death 34:42 - GM social leaders 48:36 - Monster themed books

Jul 2

Daggerheart releases two new classes into playtesting, triggering a heated rules debate over moons! Meanwhile, another Unearthed Arcana brings the Necromancer Wizard and Hexblade Warlock back to D&D 2024. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:14 - What is an Undead? 06:04 - Unearthed Arcana subclasses 23:11 - The missing Todd in the room 24:50 - New Daggerheart playtest 46:09 - Tabletop Workers United 47:23 - Taking GM notes

Jun 25

More industry shuffles as Hasbro lays off more staff, Ivan Van Norman leaves Darrington Press, and we get a sneak peak at a cancelled D&D video game! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - Siege weapons in D&D 05:02 - Hasbro layoffs 07:47 - WotC cancelled video game 18:45 - Ivan Van Norman departs Darrington Press 26:10 - Character combat parity 42:55 - Player input on adventures

Jun 18

What will Chris Perkins and Jeremy Crawford joining Darrington Press mean for D&D 5e? Todd Kenreck is laid off from WotC, D&D's Vice President resigns, and other industry shaking events unfold! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:52 - Todd Kenreck laid off from WotC 13:29 - Chris Perkins and Jeremy Crawford join Darrington Press 28:50 - Jess Lanzillo leaves WotC 30:59 - Darrington Press' own OGL

Jun 11

Wizard's of the Coast is hiring new D&D designers, but can they fill Chris Perkins or Jeremy Crawford's shoes? A new D&D video game is announced, and World of Darkness publisher White Wolf rises from the grave! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:24 - Best question for Session 0? 13:40 - WotC hiring game designers 22:23 - White Wolf returns 28:38 - A new D&D video game! 33:53 - UK Games Expo 36:05 - Balancing a TTRPG 45:23 - Monstrous BBEG

Jun 4

A surprised Unearthed Arcana launches the Psion back into D&D! Wizards of the Coast inks an new video game publishing deal, while Baldur's Gate 3 goes Pathfinder 2e. Should TTRPG players git gud? Hunt for Monsters of Drakkenheim on D&D Beyond: https://marketplace.dndbeyond.com/category/DB4KDB0Q1 Wizards of the Coast signs deal with Giant Skull: https://newsroom.hasbro.com/news-releases/news-release-details/wizards-coast-announces-exclusive-publishing-agreement-giant Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:15 - Best TTRPG settings 06:53 - The Psion Unearthed Arcana 22:36 - Monsters of Drakkenheim 24:56 - New WotC video game? 32:17 - BG3's Pathfinder mod 34:05 - Does player skill matter in a TTRPG?

May 28

We celebrate the launch of Daggerheart from Darrington Press, whilst comparing encounter design between Draw Steel, D&D, and Critical Role's new TTRPG. Click to enter the Grim Hollow Player Pack D&D Beyond giveaway: https://forms.gle/RxFKrvYyJFFKHeTa7 Sign up to GM at Gen Con 2025: https://www.baldmangames.com/gencon-2025-dm-signup/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 08:50 - Weirdest place to play TTRPGs 10:16 - Daggerheart releases 27:10 - GM at Gen Con 2025 30:16 - Building Draw Steel encounters 48:59 - Improvising fun NPCs

May 21

How do 1-on-1 D&D sessions differ from a typical big party campaign? The fate of Gen Con's most infamous rogues is revealed! How can you create a gripping atmosphere at your gaming table or online? Click to enter the Lairs of Etharis D&D Beyond giveaway: https://forms.gle/kyNDnZBxGjBJA65r7 Tariff Pause the Bare Minimum: https://www.wargamer.com/board-games/gloomhaven-tariff-pause Game Publishers Brace for Shipping Price Hike: https://boardgamewire.com/index.php/2025/05/13/board-game-publishers-brace-for-shipping-price-hike-delays-as-us-drops-tariffs-on-china-to-30-in-90-day-truce/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:46 - 1 on 1 D&D 14:52 - Gen Con heist news 23:22 - Diana Jones Emerging Designers 27:24 - TTRPG tariff update 38:00 - Daggerheart actual play 39:47 - Creating game atmosphere

May 14

D&D 2024 unleashes new Horror Subclasses like the Artificer Reanimator in the latest Unearthed Arcana. But how frightening can 5e be? Plus there's a sneak peak at the new Eberron book and why TTRPG publishers might be pulling out of Gen Con? Click to enter the Lairs of Etharis D&D Beyond giveaway: https://forms.gle/kyNDnZBxGjBJA65r7 Check out Lairs of Etharis on D&D Beyond, here: https://marketplace.dndbeyond.com/settings/SRC-00130 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:48 - Favorite type of horror 07:54 - Horror subclasses UA 26:43 - Eberron: Forge of the Artificer 42:56 - TTRPG publisher pulls out of Gen Con 49:03 - What's a bandit lord? 54:46 - Humanoid villains

May 7

Is Sage Advice the same without Jeremy Crawford? WotC publish the latest 2024 rules update on D&D Beyond, Roll20 and Demiplane launch a cross compatibility beta, and a titan of the TTRPG industry comes to an abrupt end. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:21 - New Spell: Mike's Hard Lemonade 03:54 - Sage Advice for D&D 2024 31:36 - Roll20 & Demiplane beta 38:09 - Polygon layoffs 44:53 - Alarums and Excursions 48:05 - Profanity in D&D books

Apr 30

Stop your TTRPG players from sleeping through your early campaign lore dumps! We're also dissecting dragons and the SRD 5.2. Will WotC dodge tariff chaos with D&D and MtG? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Best dragon harvest 05:20 - WotC vs tariffs 11:39 - Tariff lightning round 14:50 - SRD 5.2 deep dive 29:35 - Westmarch style systems 40:55 - How much lore, too much?

Apr 23

Does releasing the SRD 5.2 for D&D 2024 fulfill the last of the WotC promises? Can 3rd party 5e publishers finally rejoice? We ponder these questions while the Tabletop Games industry collapses around us due to tariffs. D&D Beyond changelog: https://www.dndbeyond.com/changelog#2024CoreRulesErrata TTRPG industry survey: https://cardboardedison.com/tariffs Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:54 - SRD 5.2 15:24 - Baldur's Gate 3 final patch 24:07 - Xanathar's puppet 25:50 - Dungeons and Cabins 28:40 - Meredith Placko resigns 30:18 - Tariffs toll on the industry 39:54 - GM Presentation

Apr 16

Jeremy Crawford leaves D&D and Wizards of the Coast, Daggerheart gets an early release Down Under, and how will Dragon Delves make dragons in 5e fun? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Diana: @dianaoftherose Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:25 - Your First GM 06:00 - Daggerheart Early Release 09:48 - Dragon Delves 22:32 - D&D Beyond MAPS 32:04 - Jeremy Crawford Leaves WotC 41:20 - Tariffs check-in 42:15 - Visualizing a dungeon

Apr 9

Will Tariffs destroy the TTRPG industry? This week we roleplay economists to explore the global issue from the side of game publishers, hobby shop owners, and fans whose books are about to get a LOT more expensive! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Teos: ⁨@Alphastream Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:23 - Arby's dice 05:00 - Chris Perkins retires 17:47 - Free Sigil minis 23:15 - Tariffs vs TTRPG's 43:07 - Creating new monsters

Apr 2

Less D&D news this week (except for WotC threatening legal action for a Baldur's Gate 3 mod) leads into listener emails about incentivizing selfish players, why GM's shouldn't be scared of math, and whether the GM or player should control the wizard's familiar? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:23 - WotC threaten legal action 08:56 - Paul Sawyer passing 10:17 - Playing selfish players 25:05 - Scared of math? GM Anyway! 32:47 - GM or player run familiars?

Mar 26

Wizards of the Coast call it quits on Project Sigil, leaving the 3D VTT to mothball on D&D Beyond. Meanwhile the world gets strange as Texas lawmakers try to outlaw roleplaying in schools for entirely imaginary reasons. Start your Companion Quest here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGLC_GGCQ_2025_2_003 Rascal article about Texas roleplay bill: https://www.rascal.news/texas-furries-act-tabletop-roleplaying-games-in-schools/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Giving your players news 04:26 - Sigil's sad fate 24:00 - Texas to outlaw roleplaying 32:31 - Avenues for self publishing 44:24 - How to finish a project

Mar 19

The D&D 3D VTT is off to a bumpy launch. MCDM quietly tinkers with it's own Draw Steel VTT. We ponder whether the Hero Forge dice are balanced while Ben and Dael argue what a Critical Role video game might (not) look like. Start your Companion Quest here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGLC_GGCQ_2025_2_003 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Dice collections 08:45 - Hero Forge dice 16:06 - Critical Role video game 28:29 - Sigil’s bumpy release 34:58 - The MCDM VTT 38:21 - Companion Quest 40:13 - Low level Legendary Monsters

Mar 12

Are tariffs about me to make buying D&D and TTRPG products A LOT more expensive for US gamers? And right when a new 5e 2024 starter set could make learning the game easier than ever! What makes a good Warlock patron? Start your Companion Quest here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGLC_GGCQ_2025_2_003 BoardGameWire article: https://boardgamewire.com/index.php/2025/03/06/fewer-releases-spending-freezes-and-rising-prices-board-game-publishers-face-volatile-financial-future-as-us-hikes-china-tariff-to-20-brings-in-25-canada-mexico-tariffs/ Rascal News article: https://www.rascal.news/tabletop-companies-are-waiting-for-the-ship-to-come-in-on-tariffs/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:27 - New D&D starter set 14:29 - Companion Quest 17:40 - Chris Cocks interviews 27:35 - Tariffs vs tabletop games 34:56 - DriveThruRPG prices rise 39:21 - Warlock patrons 48:12 - Greyhawk introduction

Mar 4

WAIT! Project Sigil has launched on D&D Beyond? The Artificer is getting a new subclass? D&D 2024 is getting a new Starter Set? All that TTRPG news, and more! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com James: @jamesjhaeck Dael: @dailydael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:13 - THE BEST D&D miniature 04:17 - Winter Fantasy recap 09:39 - Project Sigil launches! 20:16 - New D&D starter set 28:10 - Artificer Unearthed Arcana 33:57 - Ernie Gygax passes 35:01 - Mega dungeon design 45:04 - Monster Manual art

Feb 26

Big D&D news as WotC announces a Lorwyn Shadowmoor 5e setting book, another 3rd party release hits D&D Beyond, and the Monster Manual 2025 gets a second patch, and we all geek out about video games! Check out the new D&D Beyond Drakkenheim adventure: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_NILE_2025_2_178 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Monty: @montycmartin Kelly: @kaiinreallife Dungeon Dudes: @DungeonDudes Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:18 - Video game influences 11:08 - A new D&D video game? 15:00 - In Search of Smugglers' Secrets 25:47 - Lorwyn book announced 32:50 - Dragon Delves cover art 36:02 - Kobold Press' cosy RPG 43:28 - D&D Beyond monster errata 49:51 - Escape Room game design

Feb 19

Pathfinder introduces NPC romance and relationship rules, D&D signs a deal with Netflix for a Forgotten Realms tv series, and evil Drow could be returning to 5e 2024! Explore Jarren's Outpost here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dndnerds/jarrens-outpost Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Adam: @RetroArchetype Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:13 - Favorite D&D species 11:54 - Evil Drow returning! 14:15 - D&D Netflix Series 21:59 - Jarren's Outpost 27:39 - Pathfinder romance rules 39:08 - Kickstarter Pledge Over Time 44:31 - Steve Jackson Games & Possum Creek 49:05 - Fantasy travel between settlements

Feb 12

The 2025 Monster Manual receives a day 1 patch, we finally address the D&D Orc controversy, Daggerheart gets a release date to revolutionize the TTRPG industry, and Ghostfire is making a boardgame! Start your Companion Quest here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGLC_GGCQ_2025_2_003 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Logan: @Runesmith Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - No orcs 07:01 - Monster Manual day 1 patch 11:28 - Monster initiative 18:20 - Companion Quest 24:23 - Magic the Gathering cinematic universe 36:43 - Daggerheart release date 38:07 - Diamond debt reclamation 40:57 - Spells in monster stats 49:56 - How to recap a campaign

Feb 5

Amidst the Monster Manual news, Wizards of the Coast announce as new Unearthed Arcana, a new Starter Set: Heroes of the Borderlands, new setting guides, and a free D&D 5e adventure! Can we convince James to like Dinosaurs? Check out A Time Traveler's Guide to Dinosaur Hunting: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/splatteredink/a-time-travelers-guide-to-dinosaur-hunting?ref=6p3q3u Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Monster Manual 2025 06:32 - A free 5e adventure 12:19 - D&D movie sequel? 13:57 - Our favorite dinosaurs 22:31 - End of Critical Role Era? 32:36 - All D&D 2025 releases 34:26 - Eberron: Forge of the Artificer 40:00 - Starter Set: Heroes of the Borderlands 45:10 - Return to the Forgotten Realms 48:18 - Greyhawk Organized play 52:11 - Unearthed Arcana: Subclasses

Jan 29

Dael refuses to talk about AI Dungeon Masters and whether they give better D&D immersion. Then we debate how much descriptive text DM's should give players during a TTRPG? Leon Barillaro's article: https://barilleon.com/blog/the-liches-method-of-boxed-text-descriptions/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - DM descriptions 05:54 - How much description to players 15:11 - AI Dungeon Masters 19:51 - New D&D boardgame 22:18 - Artefacts & Alignment 32:15 - Why not play as a werewolf? 44:45 - Forgotten D&D antagonists

Jan 22

We review more D&D 2025 Monster Manual news before musing whether a TTRPG is a game or a philosophical exercise? And should a GM force permanent changes on a player character? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:41 - Male medusa 05:20 - Monster Manual 2025 09:22 - Player character creature types 17:07 - Does alignment ruin campaigns? 27:24 - Bankruptcy in the games industry 33:02 - Reducing D&D group size 43:00 - Character altering consequences

Jan 15

A MASSIVE preview of the D&D 2024 Monster Manual sparks discussions about variant stat blocks, Legendary Actions, monster type changes, and whether a monster's gender is important to your campaign? Late pledge to Grim Hollow here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=9y5qai Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:27 - Monsters from myth 08:00 - New Grim Hollow playtest 13:55 - Monster Manual 2024 22:00 - Legendary Actions return! 26:26 - How to index your monsters 33:13 - Monster type changes 36:08 - Challenge Rating fixed? 42:16 - Monster gender changes 48:72 - New monster artwork

Jan 8

D&D Beyond releases an Unearthed Arcana for the Artificer while Pathfinder commences the Impossible Playtest on two new classes. Meanwhile, why is that one relative asking you about Dungeons & Dragons all of a sudden? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:21 - Secret Level (spoilers) 06:05 - Artificer UA review 18:44 - Pathfinder's 'Impossible playtest' 22:48 - D&D licensing corner 30:46 - Wyrmwood layoffs 31:42 - D&D in the New York Times 43:26 - Using real myths in D&D

Jan 1

We start the year with a mailbag of listener questions, including whether you can play an entire D&D campaign as a familiar? How do you use 5e character abilities outside combat? How to make your gaming sessions last longer? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Diana: @DianaOfTheRose Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:56 - Best social media platform? 05:42 - Play as a familiar? 14:43 - Class features outside combat 26:34 - Rule of Cool 29:58 - Longer session playtime 40:12 - Showing the GM's hand

Dec 25, 2024

The Eldritch Lorecast celebrates another year of D&D and the TTRPG industry with the Elly Awards! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - Personal yearly highlights 07:03 - Biggest news of 2024 20:42 - Best TTRPG release 30:36 - Best TTRPG related release 33:44 - Best Con of 2023 38:33 - Guests of the year 42:46 - Best Lorecast moments 48:50 - New Years resolutions

Dec 18, 2024

Let's talk strategies for finding compatible players for your D&D table, how to design adventures that don't cater only for certain 5e classes, and how magic shops can add to the worldbuilding of your campaign. Late Pledge to Enchanting Emporiums: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eldermancy/the-seekers-guide-to-enchanting-emporiums?ref=83s14q Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Brooks: @brookstho Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:40 - Creative strengths 14:12 - Enchanting Emporiums 22:02 - Finding compatible players 38:49 - Adventure design and player classes

Dec 11, 2024

Are safety tools important for your D&D game? We discuss the pros and cons of deploying the X-card during a TTRPG, and reflect on the multimedia success of Critical Role, Daggerheart, and what they're planning next! This Effin GM's video about Safety Tools: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07dLCOgEjqE Critical Role article from Rolling Stone: https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/rs-gaming/critical-role-dungeons-and-dragons-interview-1235188141/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:39 - Game randomizers 09:58 - Critical Role Christmas Album 12:18 - Daggerheart 24:36 - A CR videogame? 31:25 - US tariffs impacting TTRPGs 34:34 - Safety tools at the table 53:52 - Teaching TTRPG designers

Dec 4, 2024

The Lord of the Rings Roleplaying arrives on D&D Beyond, possibly opening the door for other "Valiant" non-D&D games? We try to solve the mystery of the Exodus tabletop game, Elon Musk hints at purchasing Hasbro, and how much should you prep your campaign before session 1? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Teos: @AlphastreamRPG Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:37 - Thanksgiving 04:06 - LotR on D&D Beyond 23:47 - What is the Exodus RPG? 33:02 - Tabletop to video game pipeline 37:00 - Elon Musk buying Hasbro? 43:05 - How to prep before Session 1

Nov 28, 2024

Bob World Builder joins once more to dissect Dimension 20's explosively free TTRPG, the MCDM Illrigger class makes it to D&D Beyond, WotC continue to talk video games, and Elon Musk tells Hasbro to "burn in hell". Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Bob: @BobWorldBuilder Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:31 - One shot TTRPG's 08:32 - Dimension 20's free RPG 22:50 - Illrigger on D&D Beyond 30:07 - Hasbro's done with movies? 40:44 - Elon Musk vs WotC 47:48 - TTRPG creators on Bluesky 51:06 - False rumors in your game

Nov 20, 2024

Bob World Builder joins the crew to briefly review the D&D 2024 Dungeon Master's Guide, Ben gushes about the Bastion system, Shawn still wants less world building, and Dael idolizes Indiana Jones! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Bob: @BobWorldBuilder Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:30 - D&D's mascot 05:39 - #3 podcast in the realms 07:16 - D&D DMG 2024 15:36 - Bastions are cool? 33:08 - Lorecast in December 35:46 - Creating living worlds 49:00 - Avoiding no-fun consequences 1:00:00 - TTRPG YouTube back to basics

Nov 13, 2024

Where should you focus your DM prep when planning a D&D campaign? Will Bastions be included in future 5e adventure modules? Is AI art infiltrating boardgames? All that and more, right now! BoardGameWire article: https://tinyurl.com/BoardGameWireArticle Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro01:51 - Infinite GM prep time? 09:02 - How much is too much prep? 18:22 - AI art in the boardgames 34:45 - Tabletop games jobs fair 37:44 - Steamforged Games partnerships 39:49 - Well wishes Darryl Mott 40:31 - Bastions in adventure modules? 50:21 - Is the DMG Essential?

Nov 6, 2024

A torrent of TTRPG news hits, including 5e 2024 monsters previewed on D&D Beyond, Critical Role touring the globe, DriveThruRPG increasing AI browsing features, and a new Ravenloft novel! Late Pledge Grim Hollow Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Videogames into TTRPGs 07:55 - D&D Funko pop 09:32 - D&D Beyond oopsie 12:51 - DriveThruRPG filters AI 18:40 - Critical Role global tour 31:51 - New Ravenloft novel 37:30 - 5e '24 monster changes 43:42 - Character red flags

Oct 30, 2024

Hasbro changes its corporate structure which leads to layoffs, new jobs, and a new future for D&D 5e. We also discuss which TTRPG will make you a better GM, and celebrate our Lorecast Halloween tradition! FINAL DAYS to back the Grim Hollow Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Halloween costumes! 02:26 - Grim Hollow KS ending 06:40 - New DM Screen 16:49 - Hasbro corporate restructure 31:13 - Chris Perkins new job 37:02 - October recap 44:47 - Games that teach GMing

Oct 23, 2024

LIVE from Gamehole Con, the Eldritch Lorecast peaks inside the D&D 2024 Dungeon Master's Guide with LaTia Jacquise. It's a whole Dungeon Master toolbox filled with chase rules, the entire Greyhawk setting, and... doors? Back the Grim Hollow Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Joe: @_Joe_Raso LaTia: @latiajacquise Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - Gamehole Con 08:12 - 2024 DMG 16:04 - Greyhawk setting 21:38 - D&D movie sequel? 27:14 - Losing animal companions 35:44 - Hobby vs profession 46:37 - Player red flags

Oct 16, 2024

Live from PAX Aus, the Eldritch Lorecast hosts a discussion about the toll YouTube takes on the mental health of D&D and Tabletop creators. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @GhostfireGaming Trent: @Miscast Luna: @Luboffin Dave: @TabletopTime Dael: @MonarchsFactory __ Editor: @ZsDante

Oct 9, 2024

After a quick convo about community etiquette and making the internet safer, we dive into the D&D 2024 DMG update and which Bastion system is right for you? Back the Grim Hollow Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - Staying current with editions 06:53 - Convention news 12:46 - MTG Commander community 23:23 - DMG 2024 preview 41:07 - Low magic in 5e

Oct 2, 2024

We explore our favorite TTRPG settings and what makes a good campaign setting, whether the 80's D&D cartoon will ever get a revival, and can 5e be played in low magic worlds? Back the Grim Hollow Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:44 - Best TTRPG settings 09:57 - Deep lore vs flexible lore 26:19 - Critical Role cartoon is free 28:45 - Free D&D Beyond one shot 30:41 - 80's cartoon revival? 35:52 - D&D 2024 sales 41:13 - Is low magic better? 55:55 - Polymorph clarification

Sep 25, 2024

Kobold Press takes a strong stance on AI in the TTRPG industry, Adventurer's League integrates D&D 2024 into its organized play, and we redesign Strahd for the modern age! Follow the Grim Hollow Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Adam: @RetroArchetype Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:46 - Favorite CRPG 09:53 - Adventurer's League 2024 25:19 - Ravenloft novel 35:31 - Kobold Press and AI 50:32 - Making Strahd better

Sep 18, 2024

Comments from Hasbro CEO ignites another discussion on AI tools in D&D, MCDM releases their creator license for Draw Steel, and we debate whether being a YouTuber helps or hinders success for TTRPG creators? Follow the Grim Hollow Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro01:11 - Scheduling regular games 06:30 - Chris Cocks talks AI 15:30 - D&D preorders cancelled 16:26 - Draw Steel! creator license 23:27 - YouTube & TTRPG publishers 40:31 - DriveThru game jam 49:32 - Grim Hollow Transformed! 54:46 - In-game laws of magic

Sep 11, 2024

This week the Lorecast discusses the ethics of designing wargames for the military, discusses whether bounded accuracy supports a "heroic fantasy" ludonarrative, and revises the Grim Hollow transformation rules! Follow the Grim Hollow Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Check out People Make Games' excellent video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYaDXZ2MI-k Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:58 - Structuring adventures 13:48 - Grim Hollow transformations 26:09 - Designing games for the military 43:12 - Bounded accuracy

Sep 4, 2024

Matt Colville joins the Lorecast to explore whether digital tools like D&D Beyond or Project Sigil actually improve tabletop gaming? Also, which action economy is right for you? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Shawn: @shawnmerwin Matt: @mcolville Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:01 - Digital tools in TTRPGs 17:25 - Project Sigil 34:57 - D&D 2025 releases 50:26 - Greg Tito leaves WotC 51:52 - Prescribed actions vs free actions 01:00:00 - Changing action economy

Aug 28, 2024

James Introcaso from MCDM joins us to talk Draw Steel and whether developing games publicly make for better TTRPG's? D&D Beyond and Paizo both walk back unpopular policies, and can RPG's have purely storytelling rules without dice? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Big Jimbo: @JamesIntrocaso Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:50 - Developing Draw Steel 18:18 - D&D Beyond updates 29:52 - Paizo licensing 32:17 - Cosmere breaking records 40:03 - Mighty Nein series 48:07 - Purely narrative mechanics

Aug 22, 2024

Good news and bad news in the TTRPG industry this week as D&D books are delayed, Geek & Sundry return, Paizo changes their 3rd party licensing, and Deborah Ann Woll teaches us all about roleplaying games! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: ‪@JamesJHaeck‬ Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ‪@ZsDante‬ Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:05 - Deborah Ann Woll teaches D&D 11:23 - D&D 2024 delays 12:28 - Geek & Sundry return 15:12 - Patreon problems 24:20 - Critical Role are Among Us 27:11 - Paizo licensing changes 31:19 - Roll20 preorder incentives 34:35 - Writing your first adventure

Aug 14, 2024

In the aftermath of Gen Con, a miscommunication from WotC leads to big trouble for D&D YouTubers. Meanwhile, a new record in TTRPG crowdfunding is being broken. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Shawn: @shawnmerwin Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Con drop 07:52 - Gen Con news recap 22:47 - WotC vs YouTube 42:07 - D&D's digital future? 53:15 - Cosmere Kickstarter

Aug 7, 2024

LIVE from Gen Con we explore the D&D 2024 Player's Handbook with WotC designers Makenzie De Armas and Justice Ramin Arman. We also get a sneak peak at Project Sigil, the D&D 3D VTT, and prepare ourselves to Draw Steel! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Shawn: @shawnmerwin Makenzie: @MakenzieLaneDA Justice: @justicearman Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:11 - Gen Con 06:29 - Puncheons & Flagons 09:12 - 2024 PHB 24:54 - The "Math" 32:43 - Designing for humans 36:04 - Monster Manual 41:25 - Designing from art 48:07 - Project Sigil 53:27 - Draw Steel!

Jul 31, 2024

We dismantle the D&D 2024 crafting rules to discover why players like to craft, before diving in to fix the 5e exploration pillar and ask whether it's simply misunderstood? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - New dragon types 06:34 - D&D 2024 Crafting rules 11:34 - In game economies 15:17 - Why do players craft? 18:36 - Is crafting player facing? 27:36 - Gen Con 2024 30:48 - Non-combat pillars of play 42:15 - Exploration pillar deep dive

Jul 24, 2024

The Eldritch Lorecast gets hype for Gen Con, where you can buy the first copies of the D&D 2024 Player's Handbook! What does the new president of WotC spell for the game's future? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:45 - 2024 PHB selling at Gen Con 09:40 - USPS D&D Stamps 11:37 - Ghostfire at Gen Con 13:26 - WotC's new president 20:55 - Role Gate buys Tabletop Mirror 27:40 - San Diego Comic Con 29:43 - Favorite character flaws

Jul 17, 2024

The new D&D Monk splits the Lorecast crew, Wizards of the Coast reshuffle their staff with a notable absence, and a new streaming service strives to compete with Twitch. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:14 - Monk 2024 27:13 - Bard 2024 30:51 - Sorcerer 2024 32:37 - Cleric 2024 35:23 - Kyle Brink leaves WOTC 38:50 - D&D stamps 41:58 - Moonbeam 52:40 - Sci fi TTRPG's

Jul 10, 2024

A pre-order bonus for the D&D 3D VTT has us wondering how close it is and how WotC plan to monetize it? Are the new dragons an upgrade from the old? Wouldn't you like to custom make your character's species? Playtest Grim Hollow's heritage system: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHPG_2024_7_145 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:29 - Sam Riegel 07:24 - D&D 3D VTT update 20:31 - D&D Preorder bonuses 34:50 - Roll20 data leak 38:11 - 2024 Ennie nominations 41:15 - New heritage system 49:12 - Ranger core fantasy

Jul 3, 2024

There's a lot to say about the new 5e 2024 Ranger, and... well... it's a thing! We also review the new D&D 2024 spells and try to get more players into the GM chair. Sign up for Grim Hollow Kickstarter updates: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=3hjfbf Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com James: @JamesJHaeck Dael: @dailydael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:22 - New 5e Ranger 19:38 - New 5e Spells 27:51 - 5e Ranger redux 35:30 - Make new Game Masters 45:40 - Core systems that work

Jun 25, 2024

The Eldritch Lorecast deep dives into the D&D 2024 previews to explore backgrounds, weapon mastery, heroic advantage, subclasses, and that one missed opportunity! Experience Grim Hollow on D&D Beyond: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHPG_2024_6_143 Follow the Grim Hollow Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=3hjfbf Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Robert: @RobertHartleyGM Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:20 - Grim Hollow on D&D Beyond 10:31 - Grim Hollow Tranformed 16:46 - D&D '24 PHB preview 19:29 - Backgrounds and origins 34:50 - Major rules changes52:50 - New subclasses

Jun 19, 2024

Fans notice differences in the D&D Beyond Vecna: Eve of Ruin, Chris Cocks submits to an amazingly awkward interview, and we ponder who the average TTRPG player is? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:52 - Player's Handbook predictions 17:17 - Eve of Ruin print vs digital 23:17 - Chris Cocks interview 34:08 - Who is the average player? 41:06 - TTRPG chase scenes

Jun 12, 2024

Do you need to be an Influencer to be a successful TTRPG designer? Is Roll20 buying Demiplane good for the RPG industry? Why has Dicebreaker stopped reporting on D&D? All that and more, right now... Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:58 - Monster Manual covers 04:23 - Roll20 buys Demiplane 11:40 - Dael’s Dragon Age corner 14:12 - Dicebreaker conspiracy 19:16 - Legend of Vox Machina S3 20:45 - Diana Jones Award nominees 32:24 - YouTubification of TTRPG's

Jun 5, 2024

Wizards of the Coast publish a job listing for an AI Engineer, the new D&D Dungeon Master's Guide has its cover revealed, and we might have found an official name for the MCDM RPG. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:44 - 5e DMG Covers 09:44 - WotC hiring AI Engineers 19:35 - Adam Bradford joins Fantasy Grounds 31:56 - D&D Show leaves Paramount+ 34:07 - D&D's controversial history 38:01 - AC or damage threshold?

May 29, 2024

We dive into D&D adventure settings from Greyhawk to Kara Tur, from Forgotten Realms to Dark Sun, and ponder which deserve to return to 5e? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Teos: @Alphastream Omar: @OmarNajam Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:36 - Greyhawk 10:59 - Campaign settings & GMs 17:59 - D&D: Worlds and Realms 25:11 - Kara Tur 33:39 - D&D translations and accessibility 36:01 - "Blue Shell" rubber band mechanics 52:22 - Food in TTRPGs

May 22, 2024

New D&D art drops, showcasing the cover of the next 5e PHB. MCDM rockets onto D&D Beyond with two 3rd party titles. Vecna is revealed as the next Dead by Daylight villain. Get 30% off at Into the AM until May 29: https://intotheam.com/GhostfireGaming Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Zac: @ZacSpeaksGiant Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:05 - How important is art? 07:54 - New D&D Covers 24:12 - Cover & Interior Art 29:39 - New D&D rules details 40:39 - MCDM on D&D Beyond 45:01 - Vecna joins Dead by Daylight 46:44 - Ability checks you want to fail

May 15, 2024

Critical Role starts its own subscription service, but is this repeating Geek & Sundry's mistakes? D&D announces another video game licensing deal and makes a controversial reveal! Sign for the Monster Hunter playtest: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHPG_2024_4_134 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:37 - Critical Role & Beacon 22:03 - Monster Hunter design stream 23:33 - Black Flag SRD 36:51 - D&D and Dead By Daylight 40:43 - D&D's greatest nontroversy 45:05 - Social rules in TTRPG's

May 8, 2024

Wizards of the Coast drops microtransactions from D&D Beyond, promises to update the 5e SRD, and releases an AI art FAQ. Should every TTRPG have a TV show like Fallout? Crowdfund Campaign Cabinets here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/loudounlaserworks/campaign-cabinets?ref=cq6nex Sign for the Monster Hunter playtest: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHPG_2024_4_134 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:09 - D&D SRD update 10:26 - D&D Beyond microtransactions 19:29 - WotC AI art FAQ 25:28 - Campaign cabinets 29:12 - Fallout TTRPG sales 43:18 - AI art and small creators 51:40 - AI art and GM use

May 1, 2024

We discuss designing a new 5e class, the difference between psionics and magic in D&D, Hasbro's investor call, and GM'ing for strangers! Discover the Wandering Tavern here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/homieandthedude/the-wandering-tavern?ref=e9y7dz Sign for the Monster Hunter playtest: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHPG_2024_4_134 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:39 - Monster Hunter class 21:18 - Psionics in D&D 5.5e 32:20 - Nurturing new players 36:12 - The Wandering Tavern 40:21 - Roll20 and Discord partnership 43:46 - Hasbro earnings call 48:23 - Running games for strangers

Apr 24, 2024

Cynthia Williams resigns from Wizards of the Coast and leaves behind her D&D legacy, Critical Role showcase Daggerheart rules on stream, and Pathfinder has new classes for you to playtest. Get Monsters of Drakkenheim: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_DDMD_2024_4_131 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:30 - Cynthia Williams resigns 14:42 - Steve Jackson Games 25:04 - CR advertises Daggerheart 25:46 - Campaign SPOILERS 29:00 - Spoilers end 30:18 - Monsters of Drakkenheim 31:35 - Pathfinder news 42:41 - Baldur's Gate 4 47:59 - Crowded TTRPG industry

Apr 17, 2024

We review the changes to Daggerheart and whether it's better or worse with initiative rules, boggle at the price of Dimension 20 live tickets, and consider whether Hasbro's CEO is right about the future of gaming. Get Monsters of Drakkenheim: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_DDMD_2024_4_131 Chris Cocks WBUR-fm interview: https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2024/04/03/dungeons-and-dragons-hasbro Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Shawn: @shawnmerwin Monty: @montycmartin Kelly: @KaiInRealLife Dungeon Dudes: @DungeonDudes Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:33 - Dimension 20 ticket prices 19:11 - Daggerheart playtest update 40:55 - Monsters of Drakkenheim 49:22 - Metamorphosis Alpha 50:15 - Chris Cocks interview

Apr 10, 2024

This week Lexi McQueen joins the Lorecast to look through the D&D LEGO adventure, speculate at the D&D video game news, and then we all try not to panic while our party learns to teleport! Get Monsters of Drakkenheim: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_DDMD_2024_4_131 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Lexi: @blackgirlmage Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:30 - Making Liveplays 11:53 - Writing adventures 14:18 - LEGO D&D Adventure 20:43 - D&D Videogame news 28:43 - Karlach takes up wrestling! 30:37 - Women Innovators of Play 2024 32:20 - Monsters of Drakkenheim 32:58 - TTRPG rules vs setting 53:42 - Handling the teleport spell

Apr 3, 2024

D&D Beyond joins Kickstarter to support Monsters of Drakkenheim, a free 5e adventure is released for Tsojcanth, and are dropping D&D sales in 2023 a problem? Express your style with 10% off at INTO THE AM: https://intotheam.com/GhostfireGaming Get Monsters of Drakkenheim: https://get.monstersofdrakkenheim.com/14 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:49 - Digital vs physical rules 06:14 - Point buy vs roll stats 14:18 - D&D Beyond on Kickstarter 21:49 - Lost Caverns of Tsojcanth 32:33 - D&D sales fall 30% 48:30 - TTRPG dream sequences

Mar 27, 2024

A deluge of gaming news breaks with a sneak peak at the new 5e DMG, Tome of Beast hits D&D Beyond, Wizard's secures more licensing deals, and Larian cancels Baldur's Gate 4! Get Monsters of Drakkenheim: https://get.monstersofdrakkenheim.com/14 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Adam: @RetroArchetype Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Gaming snacks 06:51 - Conquest Melbourne 07:37 - Gary Con news 08:20 - Shadowdark 11:56 - Matt Mercer in the new DMG 15:05 - More Gary Con news 29:33 - Tome Of Beasts on D&D Beyond 32:20 - Monsters of Drakkenheim 36:15 - D&D LEGO release 41:03 - D&D Converse 42:10 - Baldur's Gate cancelled 48:11 - Remembering James M. Ward 50:09 - D&D is for Nerds podcast

Mar 20, 2024

The Dungeon Dudes drop in to talk the Daggerheart open Beta, their next 5e Kickstarter "Monsters of Drakkenheim", and whether AI creation tools can be used responsibly? Get Monsters of Drakkenheim: https://get.monstersofdrakkenheim.com/14 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @JamesJHaeck Monty: @montycmartin Kelly: @KaiInRealLife Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:28 - Best 5e monster type 13:20 - Monsters of Drakkenheim 31:56 - Hasbro using AI 43:38 - Daggerheart playtest

Mar 13, 2024

5e Adventurer's League consolidates onto D&D Beyond, Chaosium offers money if you develop for the Basic Roleplaying: Universal Game Engine, and Kobold Press announces a new Tales of the Valiant starter set! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:49 - Chaosium game design competition 20:08 - Adventurers League on D&D Beyond 25:44 - Premier AL organizers 37:59 - Tales of the Valiant starter set 42:09 - Do adventure modules railroad?

Mar 6, 2024

Darrington Press announces a Daggerheart open playtest, D&D Beyond updates Maps and offers an exclusive Vecna adventure, and a surprise new TTRPG adventure wants you to play for science! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:23 - Daggerheart playtest 22:28 - D&D Beyond Maps 29:43 - Vecna: Nest of the Eldritch Eye 39:43 - Realms of Kymoria lawsuit 44:31 - Learning from adventure modules 53:05 - Surprise NASA TTRPG

Feb 28, 2024

Does D&D lore need a refresh with more recognizable characters? Why did WotC cut Portuguese translations from their books? Where's the best place to get TTRPG news? All that and more on the Eldritch Lorecast! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Luna: @Luboffin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:13 - Rascal TTRPG news 12:54 - D&D in Portuguese cut 16:45 - Candela Obscura season 4 31:46 - Tom Cardy & Dragon Friends 35:39 - Faction design 45:15 - Updating D&D lore

Feb 21, 2024

This week's Eldritch Lorecast reignites the Legendary Resistance debate, welcomes more 3rd party publishers to D&D Beyond, gets hyped for LEGO rumors, and charts the rise and fall of Evil Genius Games. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin James: @JamesJHaeck Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:10 - Legendary resistances 15:46 - Hasbro investor call 25:06 - Humblewood on D&D Beyond 26:51 - D&D LEGO partnership 33:06 - Rise and fall of Evil Genius Games 40:15 - No-win player choices

Feb 14, 2024

The D&D 2024 release schedule arrives just in time for this week's Eldritch Lorecast! We also talk Dragonlance heartbreak and how to use player-character backgrounds effectively? Discover Surviving Strangehollow: http://get.accidentalcyclops.com/4 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin James: @JamesJHaeck Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:22 - TTRPG romance 05:47 - Dragonlance heartbreak 15:58 - D&D 2024 release schedule 22:02 - Player's Handbook 2024 25:57 - D&D Converse, LEGO, and Pop-tarts 30:28 - Surviving Strangehollow 38:05 - Foundry VTT partnership 46:03 - Using character backstories

Feb 7, 2024

This week's Eldritch Lorecast Unearths the last of the D&D Arcana and gets rage baited by the latest TTRPG controversies. Express your style with 10% off at INTO THE AM: https://intotheam.com/GhostfireGaming Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Teos: @Alphastream Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:36 - Exciting 5.5e rules 10:00 - Playtest Packet 8 review 22:27 - 5.5e launch dates 28:33 - Into the AM 30:41 - Tencent & rage bait 45:35 - Between session storytelling

Jan 31, 2024

We announce all the 5e news from Ghostfire Gaming, review the Deck of Many Things continued production issues, and when we can expect D&D in VR? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin James: @JamesJHaeck Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:48 - 2024 gaming conventions 07:58 - Ghostfire Gaming news! 15:37 - Deck of Many Things manufacturing 21:39 - D&D VR game 31:58 - Netflix TTRPG lawsuit 33:48 - Retreating in D&D 5e? 52:39 - Cutting rules from 5.5e 57:29 - 3D printing minis

Jan 24, 2024

Is Nightshade the end of AI art in the TTRPG industry? How do you effectively playtest new rules you've written? What's the worst DM behavior you've put up with in your D&D game? All that, and more! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Shawn: @shawnmerwin Dael: @DailyDael Logan: @the_runesmith Adam: @RetroArchetype Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:36 - TTRPG creator advice 09:53 - Nightshade poisons AI art 16:55 - Random House cocktails 25:33 - Bad DM behavior 40:08 - Playtesting subclasses 51:07 - Too many NPCs

Jan 17, 2024

This week's Eldritch Lorecast celebrates the D&D Movie winning an award, commemorates the passing of Jennell Jaquays, explores Aussie game design, and how NOT to introduce new players to 5e or TTRPG's. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:26 - Critical fumbles 07:03 - D&D Movie wins! 08:48 - Remembering Jennell Jaquays 12:35 - Ruining D&D for new players 33:21 - Aussie game design

Jan 10, 2024

Hot takes burn up this week's Eldritch Lorecast as the crew tackle WotC getting caught using AI Art once again, and whether the Golden Age of TTRPG's is dead as Ben Riggs predicts? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:50 - Gaming over the Break 13:21 - Congratulations MCDM 14:14 - Golden Age of TTRPGs 27:24 - WotC and AI Art... again 45:42 - Bryan Ansell Tribute 46:39 - The Clone Spell

Jan 3, 2024

This week we discuss integrity in the TTRPG YouTube space, choose new 5e adventures for 2024, and discuss whether the stun condition should be removed from D&D entirely? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:05 - AI Art False Accusation 09:52 - Integrity in TTRPG YouTube 14:32 - Choosing an adventure 29:55 - Max level cap 47:20 - High level campaigns 51:40 - Remove the stun condition?

Jan 2, 2024

Learn the entire process of publishing a TTRPG product in the industry, from game design, writing, editing, art, graphic design, project managing, and marketing your book. A special episode of The Eldritch Lorecast recorded LIVE at PAX Aus 2023. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Phil: @PhilBeckwithDnD Vee: @Rocketeer_Vee Hayley: @storybrewers Editor: @ZsDante

Dec 20, 2023

We celebrate a massive year for D&D the Tabletop Roleplaying Game industry as a whole! The ups, the downs, and everything in between. Final hours to back Enchanting Emporiums on Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ELEE_2023_11_109 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 08:12 - Biggest news of 2023 18:32 - Best TTRPG release 30:01 - Best TTRPG related release 40:04 - Best Con of 2023 47:43 - Guests of the year 52:16 - Best ELC moments

Dec 13, 2023

After being blown away by The MCDM RPG day 1 success, the team review the 50 Years of D&D panel and all the 5e books set for release in 2024. Support the Enchanting Emporium's Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ELEE_2023_11_109 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:27 - Most spent on crowdfunding 08:29 - The MCDM RPG 25:21 - 50 Years Of D&D panel 27:55 - Gaming at Conventions 37:43 - Quests from the Infinite Staircase 39:11 - Vecna - Eve of Ruin 41:23 - 2024 PHB & Monster Manual 48:56 - The Game Awards 55:24 - Hasbro Layoffs

Dec 6, 2023

Ghostfire Gaming arrives on D&D Beyond with Lairs of Etharis and Dungeons of Drakkenheim, the first 3rd party 5e content after Critical Role. We also take time to answer listener emails. Get Lairs of Etharis on D&D Beyond: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHMG_2023_12_114 Support the Enchanting Emporium's Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ELEE_2023_11_109 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @JamesJHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:25 - Creating monster lairs 07:58 - Lairs of Etharis on D&D Beyond 18:00 - Describing fantasy worlds 30:20 - Keeping campaigns going 37:45 - Dragons in Grim Hollow?

Nov 29, 2023

Reviewing the new D&D Unearthed Arcana playtest packet 8 leads to pondering whether 5e still needs resource management and if it's better for a monk's foe to succeed against Stunning Strike? Follow the Enchanting Emporium's Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ELEE_2023_11_109 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjHaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:33 - Thanksgiving 04:29 - Ghostfire at PAX Unplugged 11:00 - WotC PAX Panel 13:27 - Unearthed Arcana 36:46 - D&D Movie Sequel? 40:26 - Peril in Pinebrook 47:09 - Pathfinder Core changes 56:25 - Enchanting Emporiums

Nov 22, 2023

This week we deep dive into 'The Seeker's Guide to Enchanting Emporiums', and why the latest 5e release 'Peril in Pinebrook' isn't for D&D players! We also discuss the application of crafting in your TTRPG campaign. Follow the Enchanting Emporium's Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ELEE_2023_11_109 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Logan: @the_Runesmith Editor: @ZsDante < /p> Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:55 - Favorite magic items 08:14 - Enchanting Emporiums 33:43 - Peril in Pinebrook 40:27 - Deck of Many Things update 42:19 - The TTRPG acronym 47:31 - Magic item crafting

Nov 15, 2023

Dael and Ben argue whether the D&D Brawler should be a Fighter or a Monk subclass. We review the updates to D&D Beyond Maps, celebrate the release of Candela Obscura, and ponder how to fight god. Follow the Enchanting Emporium's Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ELEE_2023_11_109 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:40 - D&D Playtest packet 7 21:24 - D&D Beyond Maps 23:49 - Maps vs the 3D VTT 29:52 - AI DMing 36:10 - Candela Obscura Nexus 38:37 - Sourcebook vs adventure module 55:35 - How to fight god

Nov 8, 2023

This week we're talking Magic Item Shops, new Black Flag adventures from Ghostfire Gaming, why in the Nine Hells EVERYONE is talking about Chains of Asmodeus, and clues about D&D 2024's core 5e rulebooks and release slate! Follow the Enchanting Emporium's Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ELEE_2023_11_109 Arora: We All Fall Down (Black Flag adventure): https://preview.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/458423/arora-we-all-fall-down Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Magic item shops 10:19 - The Seeker’s Guide to Enchanting Emporiums 16:17 - Ghostfire’s Black Flag adventures 25:08 - The realms of Arora 28:23 - New D&D streaming service 39:37 - Chains of Asmodeus 48:57 - D&D 2024 hints

Nov 1, 2023

Wizards of the Coast delays the D&D Deck of Many Things, MCDM announces their RPG Backerkit launch, and Kobold Press releases the Black Flag SRD. Meanwhile, nobody is impressed by Critical Role!? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:50 - Deck of Many Things delayed 15:30 - WotC increased revenue 20:32 - D&D arriving to schools 23:58 - MCDM RPG launch date 25:25 - Black Flag SRD 39:41 - Critical Role news roundup 45:22 - Why PC's never die anymore

Oct 25, 2023

Shawn reports back from Gamehole Con on the MCDM RPG, D&D Beyond launches Day 1 DLC for Planescape, the Candela Obscura draws near, and Paizo hikes its Pathfinder prices! All that Tabletop News, and more to come! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:32 - Gamehole Con 07:59 - MCDM RPG round 2 19:21 - Tabletop News launches 26:46 - Candela Obscura and horror RPGs 37:27 - Adventure Atlas: The Mortuary 49:45 - Paizo price hike

Oct 18, 2023

This week D&D returns to magazine shelves with Dungeons & Dragons Adventurer, new iconic D&D characters are possibly teased, and we return to our discussion social encounter game mechanics to decide how much crunch is the right amount. Aberration on Gamefound: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB_2023_10_107 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Adam: @RetroArchetype Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:49 - New D&D Iconic Characters 12:20 - DriveThruRPG Update 18:45 - D&D Adventurer magazine 28:16 - Aberration last 48hrs 30:06 - Social encounter crunch? 42:57 - Casting spells in front of NPC’s 54:50 - New D&D celebrity liveplay

Oct 11, 2023

After playtesting the MCDM TTRPG at PAX Aus, Ben, Dael and James have thoughts... we also look at the Bastion system in the new D&D Unearthed Arcana playtest packet. Shawn doesn't think the sky is falling for bookstores. Check out Aberration: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB_2023_10_106 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:42 - MCDM RPG Playtest 12:56 - Tactical Heroic Cinematic Fantasy 19:05 - MCDM dice mechanics 26:02 - Its place in the industry? 34:54 - Negotiation system 44:02 - D&D Beard oil 47:17 - UA: Bastion system 01:03:39 - WotC ends distribution contract 01:08:12 - UA: cantrips

Oct 3, 2023

This week the Monstrous Compendium Vol. 4 unleashes on D&D Beyond, Netflix rolls for initiative against a TTRPG publisher, and the Australians' lose their minds. Discover Aberration here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB_2023_10_105 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Adam: @RetroArchetype Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:58 - Favorite gaming convention? 06:03 - Find us at PAX Aus 12:50 - Evil Genius vs Netflix 27:14 - Planescape 35:14 - New fey monsters for 5e 44:42 - Aberration 46:34 - Baldur’s Gate supplement? 58:07 - Digital purchases bad for games?

Sep 27, 2023

Game designer Peter Lee joins the Lorecast to discuss board game development, how to use playtest feedback, and the history of his career. We also take a look the new D&D Beyond Maps and dissect some D&D sales data! Back Aberration here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB_2023_9_104 Find Teos' blog: https://alphastream.org/index.php/2023/09/25/how-dd-sells-and-what-it-means-for-the-hobby/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Peter: @minipete Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:24 - Favorite board games 05:59 - Peter Lee's game design career 15:28 - Aberration from concept to Gamefound 20:43 - The Great Beast of Grim Hollow 29:55 - Aberration expansions 32:54 - D&D Beyond: Maps 41:51 - Planescape 43:27 - Dissecting D&D sales data 50:56 - How to use playtest feedback

Sep 20, 2023

This week is look at how Baldur's Gate 3 uses initiative, celebrate Grim Hollow: The Monster Grimoire arriving on 5e Nexus, and explore implicit storytelling in TTRPG adventures. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:07 - Best way to use initiative 15:24 - D&D Beyond VTT alpha 18:35 - Roll20 buys Dungeon Scrawl 24:49 - 3rd parties on 5E Nexus 30:42 - Email about emails 31:46 - Implicit storytelling in RPGs 40:05 - Restricting monster options 59:59 - The truth about thieves guilds

Sep 13, 2023

Another full episode of pouring over a playtest packet for D&D 5e (2e), which raises game design questions about opportunity attacks, whether failure is good, and is D&D too "magical"? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:05 - D&D Playtest 7 03:41 - Counterspell 07:24 - Wildheart barbarian 12:59 - Battle Master fighter 19:27 - Opportunity attacks 22:13 - 5e 2024 design goals? 31:58 - Wild Magic sorcerer 41:14 - Mild BG3 spoiler begins 41:57 - BG3 spoiler ends 41:58 - Barbarians are magic now 47:58 - Warlock changes

Sep 6, 2023

We're delving below Phandelver to preview the latest D&D 5e adventure, discussing new Pathfinder classes up for playtest, and then relax with a fine drink at the Quest's End. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Omar: @OmarNajam Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante 00:00 - Intro 04:38 - Phandelver & Below 11:23 - Baldur's Gate Gazetteer 14:22 - New Pathfinder classes 27:43 - Quest's End D&D whiskey 38:26 - Does 5e have too many classes? 50:40 - D&D Beyond: Before the Storm 57:05 - Time travelling campaigns?

Aug 30, 2023

This week we take a break from the D&D news to answer YOUR questions about TTRPGs, 3rd party publishing, game mechanics and power rangers! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Our named wizards spells 04:37 - Our power ranger colors! 06:11 - Hopes for the next 100 episodes 07:32 - Balancing companion NPCs 13:38 - Art inspiration for RPGs 21:28 - Future of 3rd party publishing 26:05 - Best idea you've never run 32:12 - Indie mechanics for D&D 37:14 - What's your favorite color? 39:50 - TTRPG industry networking 43:45 - Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood? 45:48 - What are witches hats? 46:37 - A house rule you can't live without 49:54 - When does 5e become a new game? 53:00 - Names the Lorecast almost had

Aug 23, 2023

D&D Beyond publishes it's first 3rd party supplement, Tal'Dorei Reborn from Darrington Press. We also review Glory of the Giants, and decide when it's okay to give players meta knowledge to make in game choices. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:59 - D&D Beyond publishing 3rd parties 22:32 - Dael's giant sized adventure 25:02 - Bigby Presents: Glory of the Giants 36:00 - Giving players meta knowledge 49:42 - Class design discussion 57:11 - Oath breakers in 5e

Aug 16, 2023

We're diving into the design of Daggerheart from Darrington Press, and just how different it is from D&D 5e. We also announce a new board game, discuss the Playtest 5 survey results, and discover why not everyone's happy with Baldur's Gate 3's success. Discover more about Aberration: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ABB_2023_7_098 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:18 - Baldur's Gate 3 16:13 - Aberration: The Board Game 19:06 - D&D playtest 5 survey results 26:26 - Daggerheart preview 49:19 - Dropout back in production 50:45 - How to network at conventions

Aug 9, 2023

Live from Gen Con 2023 we discuss AI art infiltrating the TTRPG industry, events from the convention show floor, US pub culture vs Australian, and celebrate industry award winners. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Anthony: @AJoyce_Rivera Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:44 - Gen Con 2023 17:14 - USA vs Australia 24:33 - Diana Jones award 26:12 - AI art in Bigby's giants book 39:49 - The Ennies 46:31 - Dnd rules update... update 51:21 - Meta currencies in games

Aug 2, 2023

This week we dive into the mailbag to answer your D&D and TTRPG questions, including whether the Kickstarter hype cycle is killing the TTRPG industry, and whether there's a solution to challenge ratings! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:38 - American vs Aussie slang 18:41 - Gen Con 2023 20:12 - Creating a TTRPG moment with music 28:09 - A solution to Challenge Ratings 36:23 - Is Eberron dark fantasy? 44:30 - Is Kickstarter good for the TTRPG industry?

Jul 26, 2023

Lots of sneak peaks this week: Matt Colville reveals design goals for the MCDM roleplaying game, Wizards of the Coast preview Planescape, and Candela Obscura announces Chapter 2! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:54 - Best incorporeal undead? 09:52 - Planescape sneak peak 22:23 - MCDM’s new game 39:45 - SAG-AFTRA & live plays 51:59 - Candela Obscura Chapter 2 54:41 - Why spell points suck

Jul 19, 2023

This week's Eldritch Lorecast asks the big question! Which giant is best giant? Why are psionics largely absent from D&D 5e? Is Gandalf a paladin!? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:46 - Which Giant is best? 06:39 - Bigby Presents: Glory of the Giants 17:01 - Mirrorscape's augmented reality 24:06 - Best one shot modules 35:44 - Class narrative archetypes 51:39 - Is Gandalf a paladin? 54:49 - Psyonics in 5e

Jul 12, 2023

This episode includes Baldur's Gate 3, D&D romances, and a bear! We also congratulate the Ennie Award nominees, and Smosh (finally) starts their live play game. Check out the Aetherial Expanse: Setting Guide: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AESG_2023_6_089 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:22 - Aetherial Expanse leaving Kickstarter 05:51 - Ennie Award Nominations 13:04 - Romancing a Bear 16:53 - Baldur's Gate 3 Updates 21:24 - Smosh D&D Stream 33:18 - Breaking class stereotypes

Jul 5, 2023

The latest Unearthed Arcana drops another 5e playtest packet, prompting more conversation about D&D's goals as a game. We also give a few opinions on the latest changes. Discover 'Arora: Age of Desolation' with new 5e exploration mechanics: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AR01_2023_7_092 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:28 - The ORC License 04:51 - D&D Playtest Packet 6 15:35 - Too much player success? 29:15 - Exhaustion & storytelling currency 39:56 - Capstones & Bards 42:00 - Druids & Monks 48:36 - Valiant playtest packet 49:25 - Changes to spell learning

Jun 28, 2023

Shawn Merwin, Dael Kingsmill and James Haeck hosts this episode discussing the Tales of the Valiant, how to get noticed if you plan to publish your own adventure/TTRPGs and other listener emails with our honoured guest Scott Fitzgeralt Gray! Check out Aetherial Expanse: Setting Guide https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AESG_2023_6_089 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Shawn: @shawnmerwin Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Scott: @scottfgray Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:58 - Things people dont know about you 05:56 - Tales of the Valiant smashed it! 10:29 - A perfectly delivered advert 11:58 - Importance of symmetry in game design 27:21 - How will the next 10 years look like? 37:23 - Multiclassing still relevant!? 47:57 - The best way to get your work noticed

Jun 21, 2023

D&D Community managers Sarah Chaffee and LaTia Jacquise join the Eldritch Lorecast to chat about the spookiest monsters, playing games in public spaces, and being part of this wonderful community! Check out Aetherial Expanse: Setting Guide https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AESG_2023_6_089 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Sarah: @sarahiscoffee LaTia: @LaTiaJacquise Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Memorable game moments 09:27 - D&D Beyond Twitch 12:00 - Adventurer's League still strong 20:55 - Being part of the D&D community 25:43 - Running spooky D&D monsters 43:26 - Aetherial Expanse hype 44:58 - Mass combat advice 54:36 - Playing in public spaces

Jun 14, 2023

The Aetherial Expanse Kickstarter launches, the city of Baldur's Gate is finally revealed, and Jeremy Crawford predicts another 10 years of D&D 5e. Check out Aetherial Expanse: Setting Guide https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AESG_2023_6_089 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Luna: @luboffin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:41 - Urban vs Wilderness campaign 08:42 - Baldur's Gate revealed 14:26 - Aetherial Expanse: Setting Guide 28:17 - Ten more years of 5e? 47:20 - Are rogues a selfish class choice? 52:34 - Randomly generated dungeons

Jun 7, 2023

Pathfinder tries to separate itself further from D&D with a rules refresh! Teos and Adam rejoin the Lorecast to review the Pathfinder changes and answer some pressing listener emails. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Shawn: @shawnmerwin Adam: @RetroArchetype Teos: @Alphastream Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:05 - Problem with Pathfinder 09:36 - Pathfinder rules refresh 15:42 - Pathfinder removing alignment 23:46 - Changes to lineage 25:45 - New GM Core 41:41 - GM breaking the game? 51:08 - Session 0 advice

May 31, 2023

The Eldritch Lorecast dives into the Candela Obscura quickplay rules, and answers if there's been a copyright breach? Is the D&D Movie likely to get a sequel? Should we be worried about a TTRPG price rise? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:33 - Candela Obscura 19:07 - Games copyright 33:35 - D&D Movie sequel? 37:01 - 2023 D&D releases 48:35 - D&D books price rise 57:09 - Tales of the Valiant check in 59:13 - Pathfinder Nexus open beta

May 24, 2023

Blasting through the small amount of D&D and TTRPG news, we then discuss game design through the lens of writing style, flavor text vs rules text, and how to name things. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:27 - Ghostfire's going to Gen Con 2023 12:02 - Dael’s strange experience 14:31 - Latest D&D playtest video 19:19 - Other TTRPG news 20:55 - Importance of writing style 39:16 - flavor text vs rules text 51:49 - Naming characters, monsters, places

May 17, 2023

We dive into the Aetherial Expanse to explore Ghostfire Gaming's new 5e campaign setting, get hyped for Critical Role's "Candela Obscura", and a fantastic listener email plunges us into a discussion of game design theory. Get notified when The Aetherial Expanse sets sail: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/977277590/the-aetherial-expanse-setting-guide Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:54 - Druid & Paladin playtest results 04:05 - Fables is retiring 06:27 - Aetherial Expanse: Campaign Guide 26:47 - Critical Role's Candela Obscura 31:20 - 24/7 D&D streaming channel 39:17 - Faster, Purple Worm! Kill! Kill! 43:21 - Types of play: Gamist, Narrativist, Simulationist

May 10, 2023

We celebrate the release of Misplaced Monsters for a great cause, discuss what a 3rd Party D&D Beyond marketplace would look like, and explore the multiverse! Find your Misplaced Monsters: https://www.dndbeyond.com/marketplace/sourcebooks/misplaced-monsters-volume-one Get updates on the Aetherial Expanse: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/977277590/the-aetherial-expanse-setting-guide Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Removing an Ability Score? 09:06 - Aetherial Expanse Tease 09:53 - D&D Community Update 16:43 - D&D Beyond 3rd party marketplace 31:01 - The next creator summit 33:00 - Misplaced Monsters for Extra Life 36:48 - Jasper's Game Week (Aus Edition) 38:25 - Eberron publisher closing down 40:48 - Adventuring in a Multiverse 54:44 - GMs role in character creation

May 3, 2023

While breaking down the latest D&D 5e playtest packet, we ponder whether classes are indeed system or content? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Spell school quiz 06:53 - Are player classes system or content? 36:05 - Reviewing the D&D playtest packet 5 55:23 - Tales of the Valiant playtest packet 01:01:07 - Pathfinder 2e refresh

Apr 26, 2023

We decide what should be in the new 5e DMG, before gauging our hype levels for Daggerheart and Illuminated Worlds from Darrington Press! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Mike: SupergeekMike Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro04:24 - When to call in the Pinkertons13:54 - 2024 Dungeon Masters Guide sneak peak40:49 - Word's largest D&D game44:30 - Matt Mercer's Dimension 20 campaign49:01 - Critical Role announces their own TTRPG

Apr 19, 2023

This week Adam Carnevale ("D&D is for Nerds") gives us his best D&D puzzle ideas, we ponder the roll out of 5.5e on D&D Beyond, and celebrate Marisha Ray's amazing throw down at Creator Clash 2. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Discover "D&D is for Nerds": https://www.sanspantsradio.com/podcasts/dd-is-for-nerds/ Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Adam: @RetroArchetype Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:14 - Naming the D&D 5e rules refresh 06:11 - Rollout of the 5e rules refresh 14:47 - Future of D&D live plays post 5.5e 20:58 - Should the GM roll every dice? 29:16 - Marisha Ray at Creator Clash 2 37:57 - TTRPGs that influence our game design 50:10 - Do puzzles suck in TTRPGs?

Apr 12, 2023

Teos Abadia reports from the field at the D&D Creator Summit, where tensions got a little heated as the future of 5e was revealed! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Teos: @Alphastream Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:56 - D&D Creator Summit recap 06:43 - Mismatched expectations 15:40 - D&D VTT hands on 41:31 - Tales of the Valiant 43:43 - Reviewing the ORC first draft 59:30 - D&D 5e rules revision for 2024

Apr 5, 2023

All the news from the D&D Direct is dissected while a Ghostfire spy feeds us information from the Digital D&D Creator Summit! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:07 - Honor Among Thieves review (No Spoilers!) 06:41 - D&D Direct 07:42 - Minecraft x D&D DLC 13:06 - Hasbro toy showcase 14:09 - MTG movie secret lair 16:00 - Neverwinter: Menzoberranzan 17:49 - Wizkid's mimic and baby owlbear 25:09 - D&D VTT discussion 47:54 - Upcoming WotC book releases

Mar 29, 2023

Timely as always, this week's episode predicts the D&D Direct event only hours before it goes live! We ponder what the core books of One D&D might look like, and the give advice to folks starting out as game designers. Email the podcast: podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrneDael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:56 - Pre D&D Direct predictions 14:15 - What will One D&D core books look like? 35:20 - D&D Coffee Club 41:57 - Getting started as a game designer

Mar 22, 2023

We scrutinize the second Project: Black Flag playtest packet from Kobold Press, finally get some insight from the One D&D survey results, and ponder how a GM can 'humble' troublesome players. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:25 - Black Flag playtest packet 2 30:14 - One D&D survey results 40:18 - Chaosium announce Basic Roleplaying Universal Game Engine 42:05 - Till the Last Gasp and competitive roleplaying 46:45 - "Humbling" players and campaign setbacks

Mar 15, 2023

Some thoughts on the D&D Content Creator Summit, Wizard of the Coast's apparent strategy for the community moving forward, and how to DM climactic boss encounters! Meanwhile Ben and Dael got to see Honor Among Thieves a little early. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Join the Valikan Clans Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHVC_2023_1_069 Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:00 - Honor Among Thieves first reactions (spoiler free) 09:06 - WotC's community update 26:50 - D&D Content Creator Summit 41:37 - Journeys Through the Radiant Citadel nominated for a Nebula Award 43:06 - Valikan Clans final days on Kickstarter 46:50 - How to DM climactic boss battles in D&D

Mar 8, 2023

'Tabletop News' producer Adam Rady joins the Lorecast to discuss the state of news and entertainment in the TTRPG industry! Also, did the characters' stats from Honor Among Thieves spoil the D&D movie? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Join the Valikan Clans Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHVC_2023_1_069 Follow Tabletop News: https://twitter.com/watchtabletop Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Adam: @HatlessWizard Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:40 - 1 Must Die: TTRPG's, card games, board games, war games? 06:00 - The new home of Tabletop News 29:00 - Titancraft miniature maker 37:00 - D&D Movie character sheets and fan theorizing 43:30 - Black Flag playtest packet 2 sneak peak 53:00 - Grim Hollow: Valikan Clans raiding

Mar 1, 2023

The ardling exits stage right while the Druid and Paladin receive the One D&D playtest treatment! We dash through the Dimension 20 and Baldur's Gate news before diving deep into the Unearthed Arcana. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Join the Valikan Clans Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHVC_2023_1_069 Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:36 - Physical vs digital dice 09:53 - Matt Mercer will DM Dimension 20 10:11 - Baldur's Gate 3 release date 16:11 - Wizkids' life size mimic 19:49 - Valikan Clans kickstarter continues 20:57 - One D&D playtest review: Druid and Paladin 50:18 - Teaching new TTRPGs to your group

Feb 21, 2023

We look over the TTRPG news of the week before answering a host of listener questions! How easy is it to convert 5e adventures to other systems, like Pathfinder? How can you surprise a player who's read the adventure module your running? What else can we share from Australian culture? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Discover Grim Hollow: Valikan Clans: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHVC_2023_1_069 Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:58 - D&D Movie sneak peak 08:57 - 5e Nexus and Sly Flourish 's take on D&D Beyond 18:44 - Keys from the Golden Vault launches... sorta? 20:27 - A new Tabletop News program announced! 26:24 - Legends of Vox Machina Season 2 wrap up (spoilers!!) 29:24 - Porting 5e adventures to other systems 49:50 - Surprising players who know the adventure module 56:10 - James and Shawn mispronounce 'Pass the Parcel'

Feb 15, 2023

This week we start by launching Grim Hollow: Valikan Clans, the latest 5e Kickstarter from Ghostfire Gaming! Then we're reviewing Kobold Presses first playtest packet for Black Flag. Raid and sail in Grim Hollow: Valikan Clans: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHVC_2023_1_069 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Scott: @scottfgray James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:26 - A mechanic you'd add to 5e 12:11 - Grim Hollow: Valikan Clans 13:46 - Saga of the Seasons adventure module 20:22 - The Raiders Guide to Valika & freeform character building 32:59 - The lore of the clans 37:31 - Introducing raiding mechanics to 5e 43:07 - Black Flag playtest feedback

Feb 8, 2023

This week we review the Kyle Brink interview over on 3 Black Halflings, discuss the fracturing of D&D 5e into multiple successor games, glimpse the reality of a digital future, and catch up once more on The Legend of Vox Machina! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Become an Agent of the Empire: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_FB03_2023_2_071 Discover Grim Hollow: Valikan Clans: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHVC_2023_1_069 Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - 'Worst NPC name' stories 06:28 - Fables: Agents of the Empire - Episode 2 11:38 - Kyle Brink interviewed by 3 Black Halflings 24:32 - D&D Beyond service interruptions 30:01 - Is Project: Black Flag closer to 5.5e than a new system? 46:13 - The Legend of Vox Machina Season 2 check in 49:13 - Vox Machina Spoiler warning 57:35 - Vox Machina Spoilers end

Feb 1, 2023

The OGL wars are over, with Wizards of the Coast reverting to 1.0a and releasing the entire SRD 5.1 to Creative Commons. What does this mean for the future of Black Flag and One D&D? We also fire through the copious Critical Role news this week in order of importance! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Get updates on Grim Hollow: Valikan Clans - https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHVC_2023_1_069 Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Luna: @luboffin Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Meaningful TTRPG character moments 07:30 - SRD 5.1 is now under Creative Commons 23:40 - Hasbro layoffs 26:52 - 'Keys from the Golden Vault' cover revealed 31:52 - Marisha Ray joins Creator Clash 2 38:09 - Mighty Nein animated series announced! 48:15 - The Legend of Vox Machina Season 2 check in 51:04 - Vox Machina Spoiler warning 01:02:14 - Vox Machina Spoilers end

Jan 25, 2023

This week is a deep dive into the D&D OGL 1.2, as we consider our responses to the survey. The Legend of Vox Machina Season 2 also kicks off and we find out WTF is up with Fishblade? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Get updates on Grim Hollow: Valikan Clans - https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHVC_2023_1_069 Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Worst NPC names 07:22 - OGL 1.2 in depth breakdown 37:34 - 'The Legend of Vox Machina' Season 2 47:38 - The Legend of Vox Machina spoilers start! 52:15 - Spoilers end 52:29 - Grim Hollow: Valikan Clans update 53:42 - WTF is Fishblade?

Jan 18, 2023

This week we reflect on the OGL leaks and all of the fallout since. We also celebrate our 3rd Party Publisher friends and discuss Ghostfire's future plans with 5e. Are you looking forward to the D&D TV show? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ghostfire Gaming's statement: https://ghostfiregaming.com/blog/forging-our-future/ Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:19 - Favorite 3rd Party 5e supplement? 08:01 - Reflecting on all the OGL news 20:21 - 3rd Party Publishers announce future plans 32:21 - D&D TV show being produced for Paramount+ 45:29 - Using riddles well in a TTRPG campaign? 58:06 - Dael's riddle

Jan 11, 2023

This week we start by addressing the OGL elephant in the room before diving into the fun of #dungeon23. We also experiment with Chat GPT applications in game design and learn more than intended about the Realm of Shadow! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Didn't back Quest-O-Nomicon? No problem, check it out here - https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_XPQN_2023_1_067 Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:29 - Ghostfire's response to the OGL news 07:47 - Quest-O-Nomicon fulfilment 08:52 - #Dungeon23 27:57 - Lego Ideas D&D winner 30:33 - What is the Realm of Shadow? 40:54 - Chat GPT and AI adventure writing 57:00 - Hiding your inspiration in your adventures

Jan 4, 2023

We spill what Ghostfire Gaming has planned for 2023, ponder about D&D 5th and 6th Editions in the coming year, and set our New Year's resolutions! Accept your first mission in Fables: Agents of the Empire here - https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_FB03_2023_1_066 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - New year's resolutions 05:48 - Fables 3: Agents of the Empire 17:56 - Grim Hollow: Raiders Guide to Valika 35:40 - Ghostfire Gaming 2023 further sneak peak 38:16 - D&D releases and Wizards of the Coast in 2023

Dec 28, 2022

We look back on the highlights of 2022 in the D&D and TTRPG industry, and reflect on the first full year of the Eldritch Lorecast! Help us celebrate with the most prestigious of award ceremonies, the Elly TTRPG Awards! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:36 - The naming of the awards! 04:20 - "Let Me Tell You About My Character" Award (TTRPG highlights) 09:39 - "Tavern Rumors" Award (Biggest news of the year) 16:07 - "Oh no, a Trap!" Award (Worst news of the year) 29:25 - "Recovered Treasure" Award (Best TTRPG product of the year) 41:14 - "Imagination Manifest" Award (Best artwork) 45:35 - "Vivid World Descriptions" Award (Best cinematic trailer) 47:45 - "Can I Play, too?" Award (Thanks to all our guests for the year!) 50:43 - "Thanks for the Memories" Award (Eldritch Lorecast 2022 highlights)

Dec 21, 2022

This week we dig into The Legend of Vox Machina Season 2 trailer, including the episode list and season predictions! The rest of the podcast is devoted to answering listener emails about Ardlings in D&D 6e, and whether power creep is ruining 5e? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - The Lorecast's evil minions! 05:23 - Breaking Down 'The Legend of Vox Machina' S2 trailer 16:25 - Henry Cavill's future in the 41st Millennium 18:34 - Will the Goliath or Ardling be in a 6e PHB? 31:11 - How D&D reinvents monsters from mythology! 46:48 - Is player-character power creep ruining 5e?

Dec 14, 2022

Wizards of the Coast have a plan to better "monetize" the D&D brand, which we discuss with only a pinch of cynicism. The Lorecast also celebrates a release window for Baldur's Gate 3, and gives a sneak peak into Ghostfire Gaming's next Fable, Agents of the Empire! Learn more about 'Fables: Agents of the Empire': https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_FB03_2022_12_063 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Joe Raso: @_Joe_Raso Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:42 - Sneak Peak - Fables: Agents of the Empire 20:36 - Baldur's Gate 3 release window announced 26:06 - Wizard's plan to "monetize" D&D 44:15 - One D&D playtest survey results 58:31 - Introducing PCs narratively into your campaign

Dec 7, 2022

The latest One D&D Unearthed Arcana playtest packet is here! It arrives with changes to the Cleric class, revisions to Ardlings, Goliaths, and Dragonborn, and Wizards of the Coast changing 'race' to 'species' in the future of D&D. All that and more, right now! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Luna: @Luboffin Editor: ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:36 - What cleric is best cleric 04:42 - Honor Among Thieves update 07:49 - New Dragonlance themed monstrous compendium 15:38 - The One D&D Cleric 16:54 - Rules standardization 22:36 - Suggested player choices 29:31 - What is a 'Magic Action'!? 37:55 - Ardling improvements 49:50 - Is "Species" better terminology than "Race"? 01:05:25 - One D&D review lightning round

Nov 30, 2022

This week's onslaught of 5e news includes 'Citadel of the Unseen Sun' getting a physical release, a popular D&D adventure re-re-releasing, and a debate about who owns a D&D campaign world off the back of Keith Baker releasing his own 'Chronicles of Eberron' book! Discover the 'Citadel of the Unseen Sun': https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_FB01_2022_11_061 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:30 - 'Citadel of the Unseen Sun' physical release 20:11 - Drawing inspiration from published adventures 27:57 - LEGO ideas D&D finalists announced 34:02 - Tyranny of Dragons re-re-release 39:56 - Chronicles of Eberron & Who owns a fantasy setting!?

Nov 23, 2022

Amy Dallen from D&D Beyond and Phil Beckwith from Ghostfire Gaming jump aboard this week's episode for a final Dragonlance preview! Dael's jacket doesn't have pockets and Ben's positively buzzing. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Amy: @enthusiamy Phil: @PhilBeckwithDnD Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:42 - Dael's pockets 01:28 - Which monster is most underused? 06:08 - Which dragon is best dragon? 09:31 - Dragonlance final preview! 23:09 - Wizard's responds to the OGL and SRD rumors 24:09 - Introducing D&D to your family 36:34 - Honor Among Thieves minis & plushies 40:33 - Favorite non-D&D supplements? 48:29 - Pacing your TTRPG campaign.

Nov 16, 2022

Will One D&D spell the end of 5e publishers like Ghostfire Gaming or MCDM? This week we clarify some misinformation about how the Open Game License works for 3rd party publishers, with the help of special guest Gabe Hicks! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Gabe: @GabeJamesGames Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - Favourite 3rd Party 5e Supplements? 07:00 - Ben's books were slanted... 07:23 - The Session Zero System 17:10 - Is One D&D the end of 3rd party publishing? 46:17 - Dragonlance & Warriors of Krynn Preview

Nov 9, 2022

With Twitter catching fire under new management, the crew discuss what this means for D&D and the TTRPG industry. We then learn the true tale of a real life D&D artifact, and how to approach publishers as an independent creator! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Favorite social media platform for TTRPGs 08:37 - Performative vs productive social media habits 21:28 - The future of Twitter and the TTRPG industry 42:00 - "Honor Among Thieves" delayed 44:13 - The legend of the 'Martin Map' 50:03 - Approach TTRPG publishers as an independent creator.

Nov 2, 2022

The crew all get dressed up for Halloween this week to explore some of our spookiest D&D adventure ideas to send shivers down your spine! We also touch on the news of the week with the Dragonlance preview, the latest D&D toys; Dicelings, and Henry Cavill leaving The Witcher. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Halloween costumes! 02:18 - Dragonlance preview 06:18 - Lunar magic and the moons of Exandria 11:47 - Dicelings 16:15 - Henry Cavill leaves The Witcher :'-( 20:55 - Halloween adventure ideas 43:56 - Enhancing the atmosphere of your TTRPG session 59:51 - House rules we always use for 5e

Oct 26, 2022

With fans anxious about the digital future of D&D, a surprise departure from Wizard's of the Coast could provide hints about where things are headed. The team also talk objective-based combat encounters and organising GM prep notes. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:01 - Favorite beholder eye ray? 04:54 - James' appearing at Big Bad Con 08:24 - The Lorecast attending conventions 12:44 - Ray Winninger departs Wizards of the Coast 22:38 - Is One D&D replacing DMs with computers? 39:09 - Crafting combat win conditions 54:28 - Organizing your DM preparation and adventure notes

Oct 19, 2022

Are video games the future of D&D's financial success? Would you watch a documentary featuring celebrities gushing about D&D's history? Do complex rules make it harder to tell good stories? All that and more, now! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:42 - James Haeck has not seen a wombat 02:29 - Your favorite D&D outer plane? 07:44 - D&D's video game news 20:14 - What do you want to see in a D&D videogame? 25:25 - Joe Manganiello's D&D documentary 35:24 - Does rules crunch hinder storytelling? 50:25 - Shawn's going to Gamehole Con 53:50 - Magic items in One D&D

Oct 12, 2022

The Legend of Vox Machina previews Season 2, D&D teams up with LEGO, prequal novels to 'Honor Among Thieves' are announced, and Ghostfire Gaming teases the future of Grim Hollow! All that and more, right now. The Monster Hunter class: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ALL1_2022_10_919 Playtest survey: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ALL1_2022_10_920 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - What is your GM setup like? 07:25 - Citadel of the Unseen Sun physical edition 15:03 - The future of Grim Hollow is cold 22:15 - The monster hunter class playtest 31:22 - Dungeons & Dragons LEGO crossover 39:27 - 'Honor Among Thieves' prequal novels 49:15 - 'The Legend of Vox Machina' season 2 preview 58:01 - Wizards of the Coast's new hire points further at a digital future

Oct 5, 2022

We're breaking down the latest One D&D release including Expert Classes, Feats & Spell lists. Sly Flourish joins us to speculate on the difficult position Wizards of the Coast may be finding themselves in, and is Dungeons & Dragons' future digital? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Sly Flourish and all the Lazy Dungeon Master's content can be found over on SlyFlourish.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - Advantages of playing TTRPGs online? 07:42 - Latest One D&D Unearthed Arcana 10:51 - Have feats become fundamental? 18:46 - Class suggested spells 22:47 - Arcane, Divine, and Primal spell lists 26:55 - Dissecting the expert classes 32:05 - Is Wizards of the Coast in trouble? 39:57 - Will One D&D rely more on apps and technology? 56:35 - Are upcoming 5e books still relevant? 01:02:23 - Effectiveness of public playtesting 01:07:38 - The VTT in the room...

Sep 28, 2022

Design your own campaign spanning mega dungeon with these handy tips! Wizards of the Coast introduce an after school program, the crew lament directional dungeon doors, and we ponder whether to subscribe to a TTRPG streaming service. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Take a gander at https://www.dragont4c.com/ streaming service. Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:00 - A TTRPG streaming service 18:22 - Wizards of the Coast offer after school programs 31:10 - Building Mega Dungeons!! 47:45 - Dungeon doors and when to say 'no' to players 54:13 - Varied currencies in a TTRPG

Sep 21, 2022

Recent events on Critical Role has everyone discussing when and how a Total Party Kill (TPK) happens, and how to handle it as a player and a GM. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:24 - Being part of a TPK 05:33 - How to handle TPKs 10:37 - Potential spoilers for Critical Role starts 11:37 - Spoilers over 17:55 - GM intervention to avoid player-character death 29:44 - The rings of power we have at home 36:02 - Physical props in TTRGs 43:12 - What is your favorite part creating games? 58:17 - Is "Common" a boring language?

Sep 14, 2022

The Dungeon Dudes return to the Eldritch Lorecast once again as "Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim", their second Kickstarter is finishing soon! We touch on a bit of Monty Python, talk about the Dungeons of Drakkenheim show and its sequel, and workshop some minigames to learn a language in-game! Follow "Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim" Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_SCGD_2022_7_043 Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/7CJU7b5GYB James: @jameshaeck Dael: @DailyDael Monty: @montycmartin Kelly: @KaiInRealLife Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:22 - James hosting 01:54 - Monty Python RPG - What would you put in it? 06:06 - What is Drakkenheim? - Discussion with the Dungeon Dudes 18:23 - Favourite parts of Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim 33:14 - Minigames to learn an in-game language 43:50 - Telling the players the DC of checks or AC of monsters

Sep 7, 2022

We're dissecting One D&D further in response to the playtest survey on D&D Beyond, which launches into a massive chat about how the game could better support the exploration and social pillars of play, for 5e and in future! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:39 - How to start a D&D Campaign 09:08 - We're going to PAX Aus!! 13:13 - Responding to One D&D's playtest survey 26:05 - Feats for exploration and social encounters 37:14 - Bringing back the exploration pillar

Aug 31, 2022

We discuss our expectations of Dungeons & Dragons' 2023 release schedule, prompting discussions about heist adventures, the deck of many things, and rediscovering Planescape! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Check out Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_SCGD_2022_8_046 Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - The module that defined 5th Edition 08:58 - Keys From the Golden Vault & heist adventures 24:27 - Bigby Presents: Glory of the Giants 36:25 - The Phandelver Campaign 39:19 - The Book of Many Things 46:40 - Planescape 57:04 - Using sound effects during game sessions

Aug 24, 2022

This week we're taking a deep dive into the One D&D Unearthed Arcana, closely examining the D&D Beyond VTT announcement, and asking what all this news means for the TTRPG industry? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:09 - Spelljammer impressions 08:39 - Beings From Beyond the Horizon 11:45 - Start of One D&D discussion 17:31 - Wizards of the Coast's VTT 32:36 - Is One D&D a "new" edition? 47:58 - Community feedback into rules design 01:04:25 - New critical hit rules 01:06:11 - Will there ever be an official D&D Beyond integration? 01:08:17 - New grappling rules 01:10:47 - New categories of spells

Aug 17, 2022

We pontificate further about what we'd like to see in D&D 5.5e, "Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim" gets funded in 3 minutes, and our expert panelists break down the art of running one shots! Check out Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_SCGD_2022_8_046 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Your "Go To" one-shot adventure 07:41 - Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim is LIVE! 15:49 - Sly Flourish predictions for the next edition of D&D 40:17 - Spells and movement on the grid vs theatre of the mind 47:43 - The art of running one-shot adventures

Aug 10, 2022

We're joined by Matt Colville to reflect on the past and present of D&D to predict the future of the world's most popular roleplaying game! The Lorecast graduates to it's own YouTube channel and we congratulate James Haeck alongside his fellow ENNIE award winners. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Matt: @mattcolville 00:00 - "Fixing" rules from D&D 5e 15:42 - The Eldritch Lorecast graduates to its own YouTube channel 17:43 - 'Wizard Presents' predictions 22:26 - The legacy of 4e and discussing the OGL 34:54 - Is 5e starting to bloat? 53:58 - ENNIE award winners! (Congratulations James!!)

Aug 3, 2022

James and Shawn return in time to pick apart the D&D movie trailer and give their opinion on Owlbear-gate. Speaking of monsters, we answer a YouTube listener question about running 'monster of the week' style campaigns. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/7CJU7b5GYB Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:58 - Older D&D movies 08:01 - Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse episode 2 11:45 - New 5e starter kit: Dragons of Stormwreck Isle 19:04 - R Talsorian Games supporting The Witcher TTRPG 20:55 - 'Honor Among Thieves' hype and expectations 41:33 - How to run 'monster of the week' style campaigns

Jul 27, 2022

The Dungeon Dudes return to the Eldritch Lorecast with "Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim", their second Kickstarter! We weigh in on the Owlbear vs wild shape debate while geeking out over the 'Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves' trailer! Follow "Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim" Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_SCGD_2022_7_043 Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/7CJU7b5GYB Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael Monty: @montycmartin Kelly: @KaiInRealLife Topics: 00:00 - Wild shaping into an Owlbear? 05:51 - Remember Animorphs? 09:12 - Sebastian Crowe's Guide to Drakkenheim 22:04 - The Apothecary miniature 30:28 - New tool based feats 40:48 - The Dungeon Dudes second Kickstarter 54:08 - Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

Jul 20, 2022

A new Unearthed Arcana arrives halfway through recording and we marvel at the Wonders of the Multiverse! There's speculation over the Roll20 and OneBookShelf merger, anticipation for the "next versions" of the D&D core books, and time for a snack! Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/7CJU7b5GYB Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:19 - Roll20 and OneBookShelf (DMs Guild) merging togehter! 16:58 - Unearthed Arcana: Wonders of the Multiverse 21:37 - Are feats balanced well in 5e? 32:29 - Dael derails the podcast 33:51 - D&D's next edition is on the way! 35:39 - Games Workshop's fashionable accessories 38:04 - How a GM should reflect on mistakes and lessons learned

Jul 13, 2022

We break news with Spelljammer Academy releasing free on D&D Beyond, celebrate the announcement of the ENNIE award nominations with nominee James Haeck, and think up questions to ask players during character creation! Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/7CJU7b5GYB Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - How to use exposition without boring your players! 19:18 - Spelljammer Academy is a free on D&D Beyond 26:41 - ENNIE awards nominations announce 35:56 - God of War 5 includes TTRPG dice in its collectors edition 42:02 - D&D breakfast bowl discussion pt. 2 42:58 - Favourite questions for character creation

Jul 6, 2022

We celebrate the launch of Fables 2: Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse, dissect the news about DM's Guild partnering with Roll20, and congratulate celebrated RPG 'Alice is Missing' receiving a movie deal! Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Find out more about 'Fables 2: Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse' here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_FB02_2022_7_040 Join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/7CJU7b5GYB Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Fables 2: Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse 04:10 - New player races from the Aetherial Expanse 21:00 - DM's Guild and Roll20 partnership 31:48 - 'Vampire: The Masquerade Nexus' early access 36:10 - Roleplaying on virtual tabletops 45:19 - 'Alice is Missing' RPG gets a Paramount movie deal 54:26 - 'D&D Onslaught' delayed

Jun 29, 2022

We consider TTRPG's digital future with D&D Beyond releasing of the first chapter from Journeys Through the Radiant Citadel free. Ben geek's out over a D&D themed breakfast, James listens to the official Critical Role album, Shawn talks marketing strategies, and Dael judges the transitions. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Follow us on Twitch for live episode recordings (Monday, 7pm EDT): https://www.twitch.tv/ghostfire_official Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:18 - Transformations and monstrous player-characters 14:15 - Radiant Citadel's first chapter free on D&D Beyond 22:09 - The future of digital only TTRPG material 37:33 - Eat breakfast right with the official D&D crockery set! 42:37 - Scanlan Shorthalt music 47:45 - How to manage time travel in your adventures

Jun 23, 2022

How high have you levelled up playing D&D 5e? Is it better to be a creative story writer or game mechanic engineer when writing for TTRPG's? Why is goodberry just the worst!? The answers to all these questions and more awaits! Email YOUR questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Follow us on Twitch for live episode recordings (Monday, 7pm EDT): https://www.twitch.tv/ghostfire_official Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Ben's "sick" intros 00:28 - What Level 20 character would you bring against Vecna? 15:00 - High level characters and campaigns 19:00 - The Eldritch Lorecast is now on Twitch 20:00 - The Arora Kickstarter is over! 22:00 - Game developer advice and resources 32:00 - Fixing goodberry and other game breaking spells 42:00 - Exploring morality in TTRPG's

Jun 15, 2022

UPDATE: We forgot to mention the day we're streaming the Lorecast! Monday 7pm EDT / Monday 4pm PDT / Tuesday 9am AEDT We deep dive into the Vecna dossier and recap the history of D&D's most infamous lich! We also explore the contribution Stranger Things has had on D&D's popularity and it's representation of the satanic panic. And of course a listener email! Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Last chance to back Arora: Age of Desolation on Kickstarted here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AR01_2022_6_037 Follow us on Twitch for live episode recordings (Monday, 7pm EDT): https://www.twitch.tv/ghostfire_official Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:18 - Early GMing mistakes we learned from 05:55 - The Eldritch Lorecast coming to Twitch 08:05 - The Arora Kickstarter is almost over! 10:35 - Vecna dossier 27:22 - Stranger Things impact on D&D 33:08 - Stranger Things and the Satanic Panic 35:18 - The Matt Mercer Effect and theatrical GMing 39:53 - The GM's fun matters 45:28 - Better session starts and session recaps

Jun 8, 2022

The Critical Role extended universe is expanded by the impending release of "The Nine Eyes of Lucien", we speculate about monster themed supplements, and ponder the influence of Stranger Things on D&D. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Check out Shawn's campaign setting Arora: Age of Desolation, being Kickstarted here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AR01_2022_6_036 Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - What's so great about dragons? 03:57 - "The Nine Eyes of Lucien" and the Critical Role extended universe 19:35 - Monster themed supplements (Giants and Undead) 22:20 - More alternatives to rolling for initiative 34:42 - Stranger Things influence and Vecna 44:39 - Playing D&D with children and mixed age groups

Jun 1, 2022

We're dissecting the giant feats and subclasses offered in Unearthed Arcana, revisiting Monsters of the Multiverse to discuss the changes to player races, and special guest Joe Raso joins us to chat more Fables 2: Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse! Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Find out more about 'Fables 2: Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse' here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_FB02_2022_6_035 Join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/7CJU7b5GYB Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Joe: @_Joe_Raso Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:50 - Fables 2: Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse TRAILER 08:43 - Unearthed Arcana: Giants 17:14 - Player races in Monsters of the Multiverse 35:11 - Should D&D campaigns limit source books for player-characters? 44:34 - Communication between players is key 49:32 - What homebrew worlds lack for players

May 25, 2022

This week we review the changes in Mordenkainen Presents: Monsters of the Multiverse, provide a sneak preview of Fables 2: Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse, briefly touch on the issues around Dark Souls TTRPG, and answer a bunch of listener emails! Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Find out more about 'Fables 2: Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse' here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_FB02_2022_5_034 Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:42 - Fables 2: Pirates of the Aetherial Expanse 08:27 - Mordenkainen Presents: Monsters of the Multiverse 19:53 - Adventurers League adopting Mordenkainen's changes 22:20 - More alternatives to rolling for initiative 34:42 - The Dark Souls TTRPG 44:42 - Critical Role's Flexible Positional Superiority 50:00 - What makes your homebrew settings worth publishing?

May 18, 2022

Arora: Age of Desolation has arrived, and Shawn is here to unleash all the details about his beloved project! Unfortunately shardscale has started infecting Ben's microphone this week, resulting in a very slight audio quality dip. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Pledge to survive 'Arora: Age of Desolation' here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AR01_2022_5_033 Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:23 - Shawn details all in 'Arora: Age of Desolation' 33:18 - D&D Beyond pulls Volo's and Mordenkainen's from sale 56:44 - Acquisitions Inc. and Lost Mines of Phandelver Free on D&D Beyond

May 11, 2022

This week a geyser of new D&D miniatures from Wizkids rains down upon us and sparks a conversation about battle maps vs theatre of the mind. Shawn teases Arora: Age of Desolation, and Ben invents his best segues yet. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Discover more about Arora: Age of Desolation here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_AR01_2022_5_032 Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:42 - 'Arora: Age of Desolation' teaser 07:25 - New Wizkids miniatures for Spelljammers and Bells Hells 11:35 - Theatre of the mind vs miniatures and battle maps 19:56 - Do you plan sessions entirely around minis? 31:28 - Should GMs delegate tasks to players? 49:04 - Capturing a specific genre or tone to your campaign

May 4, 2022

This week we try to break some news, pondering whether a 'Metaverse' is coming for 5e which could include third party campaign settings? James is as excited as ever for Episode 5 of Fables, and Dael teaches us the word skeumorphism. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Check out the latest episode of Fables: Citadel of the Unseen Sun here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_FB01_2022_5_031 Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:14 - Fables, Episode 5: City of Decadence 04:58 - Urban D&D Adventures 12:48 - Is a D&D 5e 'Metaverse' coming? 22:41 - Colbert's new adventure, legacy media, and Skeumorphism 28:26 - Does party composition matter? 43:15 - Running sophisticated social encounters in 5e

Apr 27, 2022

We dive deep into the Dungeons & Dragons news from D&D Direct, including Spelljammer, Dragonlance, Baldur's Gate, campaign cases and more! Plus we dissect the implications (good and bad) of Wizards of the Coast purchasing D&D Beyond! Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Check out Ghostfire Gaming's website here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ALL1_2022_4_030 Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 07:35 - D&D Beyond acquired by Wizards of the Coast 20:34 - Goon balloon 22:02 - D&D Beyond data in WotC hands 26:40 - Will D&D become more complex with digital tools? 28:29 - Videogamification of D&D 37:51 - D&D Direct (Spelljammer) 54:51 - Rapid fire D&D Direct roundup

Apr 20, 2022

This week's episode of The Eldritch Lorecast is a deep dive into our mail bag, answering questions about party followers, sidekicks and familiars, D&D as an educational tool, and could you run Bridgerton as a 5e adventure? Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Check out Ghostfire Gaming's website here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ALL1_2022_4_029 Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:29 - Are party followers ever a good idea? 13:44 - Run party followers your players won't hate 37:00 - D&D and TTRPGs as educational tools? 47:45 - Bridgerton style D&D adventures

Apr 13, 2022

This week's news is Hasbro's stealth announcement of a new D&D starter adventure, 'Dragons of Shipwreck Cove', and the next chapter of Fables is revealed to be more open world! James is inspired by The Legend of Zelda, Dael rolls for initiative against a giant spider, Shawn recounts more of 5e's beginnings, and Ben doesn't like Skyrim. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:17 - Dael's battle with Australian fauna 01:18 - Our first D&D 5e Adventures 07:28 - New D&D 5e starter box: Dragons of Stormwreck Isle 22:49 - Fables Episode 4: Land of Despair 35:20 - Zelda dungeons are fantastic for TTRPG design! 43:57 - Designing adventures: is everything a dungeon? 52:34 - Game design ideas and resources

Apr 6, 2022

It's no April Fool's joke, Paizo are publishing a Pathfinder module as a 5th Edition adventure! Meanwhile WizKids are making a skirmish wargame with D&D: Onslaught. Dael brings her Golarion expertise, Shawn fears the reality-slayer-sword, James is gaga-googly eyes, and Ben lets his wargamer flag fly! Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:40 - Paizo releasing a Pathfinder module for D&D 5e! 20:15 - Should other TTRPG publishers release 5e supplements? 27:03 - 'Dungeons & Dragons: Onslaught' is announced! 33:11 - Wargames vs roleplaying games 44:09 - Encouraging player-characters to explore your campaign world

Mar 30, 2022

This week we're hyped for 'Arora: Age of Desolation', 'Journeys Through the Radiant Citadel', and Stephen Colbert teaming up with Critical Role again in April! Dael and James reminisce over their favorite Crit Role guest stars, Shawn gives sneaky clues about his new campaign world, and Ben turns EVERY game into an rpg. Discover 'Arora: Age of Desolation': https://ghostfiregaming.com/arora/ Help Choose Stephen's Adventure (Again): https://tiltify.com/@criticalrole/choose-stephen-colberts-adventure-again Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 07:37 - Arora: Age of Desolation 14:07 - Journeys Through the Radiant Citadel 20:34 - Stephen Colbert teaming up with Critical Role 30:48 - Critical Role vs Legacy Media 36:27 - Introducing "Normies" to TTRPGs 43:29 - The Legacy of Dungeons & Dragons 52:51 - Incorporating other hobbies into your D&D game

Mar 23, 2022

This week we get hyped for the Dungeons & Dragons movie with Chris Pine and Hugh Grant, and debate whether it feels good to level up in 5e. Ben just keeps his players at level 1, Dael is kinder to leveling than she's been in the past, James is on Witcher Watch this week, and Shawn is glad it's not like earlier editions. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:00 - The upcoming D&D movie! 15:10 - Is Hugh Grant villainous enough? 20:47 - What kind of adventure will the D&D movie be? 22:25 - Leveling up in D&D 5e 29:39 - Milestone vs XP - which is better? 45:13 - Leveling system in Fables: Citadel of the Unseen Sun 50:34 - Defining what spells are "legal" in your campaign

Mar 16, 2022

This week we dive deep into Critical Role: Call of the Netherdeep, discussing Critical Role Easter eggs, rival parties, and what we're most excited for! James and Shawn give insight into working in the TTRPG industry, and Dael doesn't think that's how lunar magic works while Ben crosses his arms in thoughtful disagreement. Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:34 - Working on D&D adventure books and other industry insights 17:08 - What comes first? The stat block or the artwork? 22:19 - Diving into Critical Role: Call of the Netherdeep! 31:54 - Tearing apart Unearthed Arcana: Heroes of Krynn 46:36 - Dael is unsatisfied by lunar magic 01:01:49 - Thank you and farewell to Rob, our editor!

Mar 9, 2022

We spend this week's podcast exploring our favorite D&D campaign settings and answering listener questions! We chat about player races, NPCs, and whether Saving Throws are redundant? Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ghostfire Gaming Discord: https://discord.gg/QamRfm8d2A Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael Logan: @the_runesmith Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:38 - Favorite D&D campaign settings 14:17 - World building with the Microscope RPG 21:09 - Should the DM disallow specific player races? 30:53 - Adding stats to your NPCS 49:14 - Are Saving Throws redundant? 01:00:12 - More Australian cuisine

Mar 2, 2022

This week we finally deep dive into The Legend of Vox Machina!! We also discuss how Liveplays are changing and what makes one worth watching? Email questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:00 - Re-capping The Legend of Vox Machina 15:30 - Is Legend of Vox Machina good at translating D&D? 24:02 - Swearing in Vox Machina 34:26 - Deborah Ann Woll and Children of Éarte 37:48 - What makes a good liveplay? 51:51 - Dael dismantles the concept of "cringe" 57:04 - The most effort you've gone to as a GM?

Feb 23, 2022

This week Jim Davis from @Web DM joins the Eldritch Lorecast to help us learn from past editions of Dungeons & Dragons and brew house rules together from what we discover! Email: podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Jim: @therealjimdavis Check out Weird Wastelands: https://weird-wastelands.backerkit.com/ Topics: 00:00 - Intro 07:33 - Web DM & Weird Wastelands 18:10 - Learning from past editions of D&D 30:31 - Alternative ideas for rolling initiative 51:57 - Does a fireball destroy character equipment?

Feb 16, 2022

We dirty our souls discussing exactly why NFTs are terrible for the TTRPG industry, and then dive into listener email questions about DnD homebrew mechanics and house rules. Email: podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Favorite House Rules 11:24 - Why NFTs Are TERRIBLE for the TTRPG Industry! 27:01 - Alternative Exhaustion Mechanics 43:00 - Balancing House Rules & Homebrew

Feb 9, 2022

Runesmith returns once more to dive even deeper into the Sunken Isles, their new 5e adventure module. We explore the monster statblocks, including the mighty Shrimp Lord! Dael still hasn't seen The Legend of Vox Machina, James explores 5e condition mechanics, and Ben gushes about violent dragon attacks! Back the Sunken Isles Kickstarter now! Discover more about Purple Mai'a here . Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Logan: @the_runesmith Topics: 00:00 - Intro 08:43 - Runesmith on the Sunken Isles 12:21 - Monster Stat Blocks 18:57 - Sunken Isles Inspiration 24:30 - Stretch Goals 32:40 - Legends of Vox Machina Weekly Check-in 35:42 - Drawing Inspiration from Fantasy Television 46:55 - Email Question: Expanding on 5e Conditions

Feb 2, 2022

This week James returns to help us celebrate a dice bag's worth of TTRPG news! Fables: Citadel of the Unseen Sun's second episode arrives, Tal'Dorei is Reborn, and we discuss Scanlan's [censored] on The Legend of Vox Machina. Check out the Daemon Oak from @Woodart Vietnam : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksxNvJXVh_U Fables: Citadel of the Unseen Sun: https://ghostfiregaming.com/fables/ Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:16 - Fables: Episode 2 release 10:07 - Daemon Oak Wood Sculpture 15:08 - Behind the scenes of Tal'Dorei Reborn 22:21 - New Tal'Dorei Statblocks 32:16 - The Legends of Vox Machina review 42:14 - Our Favorite

Jan 26, 2022

Railroading isn't such a bad thing, and this week we mount the argument why when discussing running campaigns for uncreative dungeon masters. We also answer email questions about satisfying endings and how to make it fun to outlaw magic. Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Logan: @the_runesmith Topics: 00:00 - Intro 10:08 - DMing adventures when you're not creative 18:32 - How do you generally prep and run modules? 25:14 - It's Good to Railroad 31:45 - Ending a long campaign 42:15 - World Building: Magic is Illegal

Jan 19, 2022

Shawn unveils Grim Hollow: The Monster Grimoire to the public and we discuss building encounters around our favorite monsters. Ben and Dael debate Fire Elementals vs a bucket of water, and just how magical is that magical weapon? Grim Hollow: The Monster Grimoire: https://ghostfiregaming.com/product/grim-hollow-the-monster-grimoire-pdf/ Ben: @Melb_DM Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Logan: @the_runesmith Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:29 - Grim Hollow: The Monster Grimoire 10:43 - Choosing monsters for encounter building 17:39 - Stibble's Codex of Companions 21:22 - Modifying monster stat blocks 27:05 - Damage resistances, immunities and vulnerabilities 37:06 - Magic weapon damage and nonmagical damage 53:31 - American vs Australian bakeries

Jan 12, 2022

Runesmith himself, Logan Reese, returns to The Eldritch Lorecast to introduce his first 5th Edition adventure module; Sunken Isles. We're also delving into player-character backgrounds and how crafting your perfect backstory, and answering the big questions about sausage rolls! Sign up for news from the Sunken Isles Kickstarter: https://ghostfiregaming.com/the-sunken-isles/ Topics: 00:00 - intro 00:14 - What are sausage rolls? 06:12 - Introducing Sunken Isles 16:26 - New Sunken Isles player races 27:50 - New naval and sailing rules 35:29 - Player-character backgrounds 00:56 - The best virtual tabletops

Jan 5, 2022

The Eldritch Lorecast is back in 2022 and we're looking forward to a bright future in the TTRPG space. James discusses the release of his Fables baby, Shawn exhibits signs of Dragon Rage, Dael aims for some achievable goals including "2 small tricks", and Ben reminds himself to get back in touch with D&D as a hobby. Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:39 - Reflecting on 2021 03:59 - Release of Fables: Citadel of the Unseen Sun 09:57 - Exploring the Monster Grimoire 17:51 - Dungeons of Drakkenheim 22:13 - Fables 2 rumors 27:49 - Project "Dragon Rage" 31:14 - Sunken Isles 31:55 - Fight the Blight announcement 35:10 - Setting your hobby goals for 2022

Dec 29, 2021

The crew continue our Christmas themed adventure, playing FATE: Accelerated by Evil Hat Productions. Gripped by terror one year more, is the entirety of Landhaus who have all locked their doors... which is likely wise with Kallos, Brillo and Eleanor running amok! The Tale Continued: 00:00 - Intro 01:32 - When we last left our heroes... 06:15 - Eleanor making enemies 21:19 - Confronting The Giver 38:35 - Combat commences (sort of) 43:31 - Eleanor making friends 55:22 - The FATE of Mr. Muscle Good Sir

Dec 22, 2021

On this very special episode of The Eldritch Lorecast, we're taking some time off from game design to play FATE: Accelerated, from Evil Hat Productions. 'Tis all winter solstice and silent in the city of Landhaus... until our heroes incite a riot and start breaking into homes in search of a mysterious gift giving monster! The Tale: 00:00 - Intro 01:57 - FATE: Accelerated rules 04:05 - Our story begins... 06:20 - Character introductions 12:49 - The angry villagers 33:03 - Following a lead 50:12 - Breaking and entering 58:37 - Finally inside the house

Dec 15, 2021

This week's Lorecast asks the big questions about whether you NEED to expand your TTRPG repertoire or 5th Edition D&D can cover every genre? James gets excited about Fables: Citadel of the Unseen Sun and Dael introduces us to The Gentleman. Download the first chapter of Fables FREE: https://ghostfiregaming.com/fables/ Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:12 - Favorite Christmas gifts 07:00 - Fables Chapter 1 08:19 - Designing traps that engage players 16:31 - James' final words on Fables 18:56 - D&D 5e and genres of Fantasy 38:56 - How would you hack 5e to fit another genre? 49:44 - Christmas live-play teaser

Dec 8, 2021

This episode is all about the arcane, eldritch, and magical as we anticipate the release of Strixhaven: A Curriculum of Chaos. Dael makes controversial claims about Counterspell, Ben is mad at Suggestion, Shawn warns against the dangers of not cleaning up after a ritual, and James enjoys the mutual destruction of fireball. An email sparks a debate about whether bludgeoning, piercing, or slashing damage is magical if caused by a spell. Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:13 - Strixhaven Release! 15:18 - The Cat saga 15:36 - Monsters in Strixhaven 18:02 - Rating spells for WotC's survey 30:59 - Magic & Spellcasting 46:17 - Describing spells & magic 54:01 - Is piercing damage from a spell magical damage?

Dec 1, 2021

The Dungeon Dude's drop by to take us on a tour of their dark fantasy adventure module, the Dungeons of Drakkenheim! Monty contaminates the world of Drakkenheim with new spells and magic items, Kelly has regrets about the monsters he's created, Ben mutates into Colbert momentarily, and Dael wants us to follow the rabbit of happiness! Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:17 - What fictitious world would you escape into? 04:47 - Dungeons of Drakkenheim 13:53 - Contamination and Mutation mechanics 26:14 - Factions of Drakkenheim 37:29 - How to start World Building

Nov 24, 2021

Ben and Dael get recklessly empathetic for their new D&D characters while Shawn onboards new players by limiting their options. James get critical about the result of rolling a natural 20... or a natural 1. Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:31 - Character creation 23:38 - Using pre-generated characters 29:24 - Onboarding new players & Session 0's 37:00 - Having 'Reckless Empathy' for your character 40:59 - Scoring a Natural 20 and a Natural 1 46:40 - Designing rules for rolling criticals

Nov 17, 2021

Shawn and James break down their approaches to designing monsters for 5th Edition D&D, Dael explains building in a "Death Star Exhaust Port" to her monsters, and Ben is surprised by how virtuous everyone's player-characters are. We delve into the merits of running "An Evil Campaign" *cue lightning* and how each of us would approach such a dastardly game. Ask us a question for the latest episode: podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:50 - 5e Monster Design 18:10 - Monster's with "Death Star Exhaust Ports" 25:48 - Monsters Inspired by real world critters 29:43 - Monster Hunts and Investigations 37:19 - Running an Evil Campaign 53:30 - D&D Inspiration from Video Games

Nov 10, 2021

James reveals all about Fables: Citadel of the Unseen Sun! This first ever Grim Hollow adventure module releases in instalments, starting in January 2022. The crew also discuss how digital tools such as Pathfinder Nexus and D&D Beyond have evolved alongside TTRPGs, and where they might be going. What is the scent of delusion? Are hit points meat? Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:48 - Fables - What? When? How? 16:52 - Fables - Character Levels 25:28 - Citadel of the Unseen Sun - Adventure design 31:56 - Digital tools used in TTRPGs 50:16 - Games Workshop scented candles 55:14 - Conceptualizing hit points and damage Fables: Citadel of the Unseen Sun https://ghostfiregaming.com/fables/ Sign up now to get each instalment at $9.99 as they release.

Nov 3, 2021

In Episode #05 we take a break from the news cycle to ask each other what we love most about playing tabletop roleplaying games like D&D 5e? How do you get started if you've never played before? Do complex game mechanics tell a better story than simple ones? Ben has strong feelings about whether you should turn your passion for TTRPGs into your job while Dael sees into the future and talks briefly about candy. Topics: 02:37 - Why Play TTRPGs? 23:24 - Evolution of D&D through the Editions 36:35 - Crunchy game mechanics vs simple mechanics? 40:43 - Is 5th Edition the ultimate malleable RPG? 45:49 - How to get started playing TTRPGs?

Oct 27, 2021

Episode #04 features Logan from Runesmith taking us on tavern crawl through "The Seeker's Guide to Twisted Taverns", and we hotly debate the function of passive perception over a brew. As the night goes on we get philosophical about the alignment chart and the nature of morality, before diving into myths and morality tales. No birds were harmed in the making of this podcast. Topics: 00:02:01 - "You all meet in a Tavern" adventures 00:11:09 - The Seeker's Guide To Twisted Taverns 00:21:10 - Passive Perception debate 00:31:47 - The Alignment Chart 00:47:43 - The Bird saga 00:48:43 - More Alignment Chat

Oct 20, 2021

Episode #03 takes a Netherdeep Dive into the new Critical Role book, "Call of the Netherdeep", with James spilling some secrets from the depths. We uncover the evolving magic item's from Fizban's Treasury and evolve it into a conversation about arcane artefacts in general. Then we get spooky, brainstorming experiences for Halloween and horror themed RPG's. Are vampires the most philosophical monsters, or was man the real monster all along? Topics: 00:00:20 - Scariest D&D Monsters 00:03:20 - Talking CALL OF THE NETHERDEEP 00:16:08 - Shawn's doing an Extra Life live-play 00:25:25 - Awarding Magic Items 00:38:23 - Halloween themed games

Oct 13, 2021

Episode #02 of The Eldritch Lorecast explores Fizban's Treasury of Dragons and what we're excited to see in the new book! We also discuss the new Unearthed Arcana: Travelers of the Multiverse while pretending to know all about Spelljammers, explore how to make choosing racial traits far more customizable and dynamic, suggest variant roleplay tools such as prompt cards and relationship mapping, and start an international dispute over inches and centimetres. Topics: 00:00:30 - Describe yourself as a dragon type 00:01:38 - Quest-o-Nomicon Kickstarter closes 00:02:28 - Unearthed Arcana: Travelers of the Multiverse 00:11:45 - Mixing up racial traits and bonuses 00:22:49 - Fizban's Treasury of Dragons 00:40:09 - Variant roleplaying tools for TTRPGs 00:57:09 - Should D&D use the metric system?

Oct 6, 2021

Welcome to Episode #01 of The Eldritch Lorecast, where we dissect the news in the tabletop RPG industry and discussing our findings! This week it's the arrival of Grim Hollow: The Player's Guide to Kickstarter backers, the Quest-o-Nomicon and designing adaptable adventures, changes coming in Mordenkainen's Monsters of the Multiverse , and our hopes and dreams for Dungeons & Dragons 5.5e. Topics: 00:02:24 - Grim Hollow: The Player's Guide 00:16:35 - The Quest-o-Nomicon and adaptable adventures 00:34:20 - D&D Celebration 2021 and Mordenkainen's Monsters of the Multiverse 00:51:27 - Dungeons & Dragons 5.5e