26 APR 2024 · In this episode of 'Hello Adventurers', the DMs engage in discussions about Dungeon Master Player Characters (DMPCs), various role-playing techniques, and the intricacies of balancing the roles of DM and player within a campaign. They draw distinctions between DMPCs, NPCs with heightened agency, and cohorts, highlighting the critical nature of player agency and the potential challenges that DMPCs can pose in overshadowing player characters. The episode also addresses listener questions on the utilization of accents and voices in role-playing, transitioning from a player to a DM role, and practical strategies for supporting new DMs. The hosts share personal stories and offer advice on enhancing the role-playing experience, cautioning against the misuse of DMPCs, and emphasizing the importance of respecting player choices and maintaining a player-centric approach in crafting game narratives. Send us your questions to helloadventurerspodcast@gmail.com or tell us yourself at helloadventurerspodcast.com/voice

22 APR 2024 · In this lively podcast episode, the DMs plunge into the Dungeons & Dragons universe, honing in on one of its most iconic and unpredictable creatures: the Mimic. The conversation kicks off with a fun chat about each host's beloved monster before delving deeply into the intricacies of Mimics.  The hosts share valuable insights into the Mimic's abilities, including its shape-shifting prowess, sticky nature, and tactical combat strategies. They highlight how Mimics can add an element of surprise and suspense to the game by masquerading as anything from a mundane object to a deadly threat. Emphasizing the role of creativity in game mastering, they discuss using Mimics to create psychological tension and present challenges that go beyond simple combat encounters.  The episode also explores various ways to enrich Mimic encounters through storytelling elements, strategic combat tactics, and interactions with other elements within the dungeon environment. Wrapping up with a call for listener engagement, the hosts invite feedback and anecdotes about their audience's most memorable Mimic encounters. TheMonstersKnow Mimic Tactics: https://www.themonstersknow.com/mimic-tactics/ DM Dave's Mimic Museum One-Shot (free version): https://dmdave.com/free-adventure-mimic-museum/ Tell us your craziest mimic story! helloadventurerspodcast@gmail.com or helloadventurerspodcast.com/voice

19 APR 2024 · In this episode of 'Hello, Adventurers', the DMs tackle a Redditor's intriguing query about a novel approach to running a role-playing game campaign, where every action and decision hinges on dice rolls. This concept sparks a lively discussion on player agency, the delicate balance between randomness and control in gaming, and how such a radical idea could potentially revolutionize or impede the traditional dynamics of a tabletop RPG like Dungeons & Dragons. The hosts delve into the ramifications of relinquishing decision-making authority to dice, contemplating its viability for short-term gameplay versus an entire campaign. They also explore broader themes of creativity, innovation, and the readiness to embrace new gaming systems when the usual methods start feeling monotonous. This episode encapsulates an in-depth exploration of the essence of role-playing games, grappling with the core of player choice and the exhilarating uncertainty of leaving fate in the hands of the dice. original story post: https://www.reddit.com/r/DnD/comments/1btabyt/he_wants_to_roll_for_everything/ send us your horror stories! helloadventurerspodcast@gmail.com

15 APR 2024 · In this episode of Hello Adventurers, hosts Jason Portizo, Joe McCall, and Jim Crocker discuss strategies for running mystery campaigns in Dungeons and Dragons. They tackle the challenges posed by D&D's pass-fail system for whodunits and explore three main approaches for game masters to construct engaging mysteries: 'The Pool of Clues' method, involving a fixed set of suspects and clues without pre-determining the culprit; 'The Emergent Solution', which encourages players to come up with their own solutions based on clues given, making the game highly interactive and player-driven; and 'Core Clues, Fixed Solution', a more traditional approach where the DM decides on the outcome but allows the players to discover it through gathering clues. The episode also touches on considerations for magic and divination in mystery settings, the importance of balancing clue distribution and engaging players in the investigative process, and navigating the challenges of high-level play where characters have access to complex problem-solving resources. The hosts share resources and pre-made games that incorporate mystery elements effectively, inviting listeners to engage further by sharing their mystery game experiences. Tell us about your favorite mysteries helloadventurerspodcast@gmail.com or send us a voicemail to helloadventurerspodcast.com/voice

12 APR 2024 · In this episode of Hello Adventurers, the dungeon masters dive into the world of third-party resources for Dungeons and Dragons and tabletop RPGs, with a special focus on 'Sly Flourish's Return of the Lazy Dungeon Master' by Mike Shea. The discussion takes a book club-style approach, shedding light on the significant role of third-party content creators and crowdfunded projects within the RPG community. The trio takes a closer look at 'Return of the Lazy Dungeon Master,' examining its structure, content, and practical value for Dungeon Masters. They highlight how this book serves as a valuable guide for streamlining game preparation, offering actionable insights that complement official guides. Whether you're a seasoned Dungeon Master or just starting out, this podcast episode emphasizes the importance of 'Return of the Lazy Dungeon Master' as an essential addition to every DM's toolkit, enhancing the quality and enjoyment of game sessions. Buy the book here: https://amzn.to/49xQj2K And the workbook: https://amzn.to/3TVsEDp and the companion: https://amzn.to/4aBgWF9 (affiliate links) tell us your favorite book and we'll add it to the book club: helloadventurerspodcast@gmail.com

8 APR 2024 · In this episode of 'Hello Adventurers', the DMs come together to share a treasure trove of practical tips aimed at accelerating gameplay in Dungeons & Dragons. These tips range from rolling attack and damage dice simultaneously to pairing new players with seasoned veterans, utilizing spell cards for quick reference, favoring average monster damage, consolidating monsters for streamlined management, maintaining transparency with target numbers, and reducing device usage during gameplay.  These strategies are meticulously crafted to enhance engagement and efficiency during sessions, allowing players to immerse themselves more deeply in the narrative and spend less time on mechanics. The hosts draw from their own experiences in implementing these tips, highlighting the tangible benefits of heightened player focus and accelerated session pace. Tell us your favorite time saving streategies at helloadventurerspodcast@gmail.com or tell us at helloadventurerespodcast.com/voice

5 APR 2024 · In this episode of 'Hello, the podcast,' the DMs delve into a gripping RPG horror tale shared by user mobile-day-6192 on the DnD subreddit. The story revolves around a DM who takes the concept of turn-based combat a bit too literally, extending it beyond game mechanics in a way that nonsensically restricts player actions. During a critical moment involving a golem encounter, the DM's decision to allow the golem to indefinitely pause combat by 'not ending its turn' ultimately leads to the demise of the player character. The hosts engage in a lively discussion on how this skewed interpretation not only violates the core social contract of RPGs but also undermines the principles of compelling storytelling and balanced gameplay. They emphasize the importance of understanding the fundamental rules of D&D and how combat mechanics are designed to simulate simultaneous action despite being turn-based for practicality. While acknowledging that diverse gaming backgrounds, such as video games, may influence one's grasp of RPG mechanics, they stress the necessity of grasping the core rules and spirit of tabletop RPGs to ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable experience for all players involved. Original story and comments: https://www.reddit.com/r/rpghorrorstories/comments/18sol4m/my_dm_thinks_turn_based_combat_isnt_just_a_game/ Send us your best rpg horror story at helloadventurerspodcast@gmail.com

1 APR 2024 · In this exciting episode of 'Hello, Adventurers', the hosts delve into the realm of Dungeons 'n Drafts, a unique initiative that brings together Dungeons and Dragons enthusiasts in the cozy atmosphere of local breweries. Joining the conversation is Thomas Solar, the visionary behind Dungeons 'n Drafts, who shares his journey as the founder (or rather co-founder alongside his wife, Dezarea) of this innovative venture. Solar sheds light on his inspiration for starting Dungeons 'n Drafts, emphasizing the challenges newcomers face in entering the world of D&D and the role breweries play as modern community hubs. The discussion delves into the operational aspects of Dungeons 'n Drafts, including the selection of Dungeon Masters, player sign-up processes, compensation for DMs, and the symbiotic relationship between gaming events and supporting local businesses. As the episode concludes, the hosts and Solar explore possibilities for expanding this initiative to new areas and reflect on the positive impact these events have on fostering a vibrant and inclusive gaming community. Find your local Dungeons 'n Drafts event at https://www.dungeonsndrafts.com/ or follow the appropriate instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/dungeons.n.drafts.phl/ https://www.instagram.com/dungeons.n.drafts.avl/ https://www.instagram.com/dungeons.n.drafts.nj/ https://www.instagram.com/dungeons.n.drafts.nyc/ https://www.instagram.com/dungeons.n.drafts.knx/ https://www.instagram.com/dungeons.n.drafts.de/ https://www.instagram.com/dungeons.n.drafts.pgh/ https://www.instagram.com/dungeons.n.drafts.durham/

29 MAR 2024 · In this latest episode of 'Hello Adventurers', the DMs once again dip into the listener mailbag, offering up sage advice on how to elevate the Dungeons & Dragons experience for both players and GMs. From navigating the intricacies of Nat 20s in initiative and skill checks to pondering the ideal endgame scenarios for D&D campaigns, the hosts leave no stone unturned in their quest for gaming excellence. The conversation takes a deeper dive into the evolution of D&D editions, tackling concerns surrounding forced obsolescence and the ongoing debate of whether new editions are genuine improvements or just a clever cash grab. Additionally, the hosts reflect on the accessibility and burgeoning popularity of D&D, attributing its widespread acceptance to the influence of popular culture and the interconnectedness fostered by the internet. As the episode draws to a close, the hosts extend an open invitation for listeners to submit their questions for future discussions, underscoring the podcast's commitment to fostering a vibrant and engaged community of adventurers. Send us your questions to helloadventurerspodcast@gmail.com or helloadventurerspodcast.com/voice

25 MAR 2024 · In this riveting episode of the Hello, Adventurers podcast, dungeon masters Jason Portizo, Joe McCall, and Jim Crocker plunge into the depths of gnoll lore and tactics. Jim takes the lead, sharing his deep-rooted fascination with these fearsome humanoid hyenas, renowned for their menacing presence and dark ties to demonic origins. He outlines the top five most captivating aspects of gnolls, ranging from their formidable combat prowess to the rich lore surrounding their genesis by a demon lord. The discussion delves into gnoll tactics, including their signature 'Rampage' ability and penchant for cannibalistic behavior, offering insights into how these traits can be leveraged to create immersive encounters. Moreover, the hosts explore the pivotal role of Yeenoghu, the gnolls' demon prince, and how their lore can drive captivating and time-sensitive campaign missions. Touching on the versatility of gnolls in various campaign settings, their lairs, and their potential as recurring adversaries across different party levels, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration for both dungeon masters and players alike. As the episode concludes, the hosts encourage listeners to share their own gnoll encounters and hyena laughs, fostering a community of shared experiences and creative storytelling. DMDave's Gnoll Burrows One-Shot: https://dmdave.com/dungeons-lairs-78-gnoll-burrows/ Keith Amann's TMKWTD gnoll entry: https://www.themonstersknow.com/gnoll-tactics/ Joe mentioned this article: https://thecampaign20xx.blogspot.com/2017/12/dungeons-dragons-guide-to-gnolls.html Tell us your best gnolls story - or send us your best hyena laugh - at helloadventurerspodcast.com/voice