Check out the new Forgotten Realms Subclasses UA at: https://media.dndbeyond.com/compendium-images/ua/eberron-updates/Lhg25Ggx5iY3rETH/UA2025-CartographerArtificer.pdf

Also on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

For more blogs and articles, you can check out my Substack at:

https://dragonmind.substack.com/

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

The new Monster Manual has been lauded as the greatest of the three new Core Rulebooks for D&D. Which one is your favorite?

Also on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

For more blogs and articles, you can check out my Substack at:

https://dragonmind.substack.com/

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Sorcerers have finally distinguished themselves from Wizards, so which is the more powerful caster?

For more conversations on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm

Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this special bonus episode, John and Ian discuss their thoughts on the (somewhat) new official product from Wizards of the Coast, Mordenkainen Presents: Monsters of the Multiverse.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In today's episode, we reference an article you can read with the following link: https://www.masterthedungeon.com/guide-to-dnd-side-quests/

In this episode, John and Ian discuss how to have a powerful opening session, resolving self-criticism as a DM, and how to design meaningful quests.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John and Ian discuss the delicate balance of emotional tension in your game’s storytelling, some perspectives on growth mindset, and which Fifth Edition products are worth purchasing for a beginner this late into the edition’s life span.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John and Ian discuss the characteristics of a compelling villain, strategies for having your players engage with them, and some thoughts on Solo D&D.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John and Ian  speak to Raymond O’Connor, one of the co-hosts of the D&D podcast, Running Off The Rails about all things D&D. We dive into the excitement of surprises at the table, the joy of running TTRPGs for new players, and the power of having your players be co-authors of your game’s story.

To listen to Running Off The Rails, visit runningofftherails.com

Matt Colville's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/mcolville

Brandon Sanderson's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrandSanderson

Victoria Lynn Schmidt's 45 Master Characters: https://www.amazon.com/45-Master-Characters-Creating-Original/dp/1599635348/ref=sr_1_1?crid=MISPOQ5K4G9Y&

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John and Ian finish their review of the official variant and optional rules presented in the Fifth Edition Dungeons and Dragons Dungeon Master's Guide.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John and Ian review the official Variant and Optional rules from the Player's Handbook and Dungeon Master's Guide for Fifth Edition Dungeons and Dragons.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this special bonus episode, John and Ian discuss their thoughts on the new Critical Role animated series, The Legend of Vox Machina on Amazon Prime.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Join us for a Switch series adventure featuring Crit! Like a girl! 

Join Ian (DMST), Sarah (Adv), Jim (Misad), and Steph (CLAG) as they navigate the dream plane led by DM Stars (CLAG).   

In the world of LJ Darkmore, our heroes are taken from their slumber and imbued with new powers, and must complete trials in order to return to the safety of their beds…so long as they don’t die.

Discover more at darkmorepodcasts.com

In this episode, John and Ian dive into hard and soft magic systems, how they relate to Fifth Edition Dungeons and Dragons, and some variant game mechanics that can affect a player's relationship with magic.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Barbarian has been improved at higher levels, but is it worth sticking with the class all the way?

For more conversations on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm

Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John and Ian discuss why player characters may be prone to violence in D&D, the choice of using meta-language in-universe, and how D&D reveals its players’ relationship with uncertainty.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John and Ian discuss the benefits and challenges of gaming online, recognizing everyone’s preferred styles, and analyze the specific style of Critical Role.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John talks with fellow game master Tim about the value of running prewritten adventures, melding your preferred play style with your players, and how everyone has what it takes to be a GM.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John talks to his co-host of the DM Shower Thoughts podcast, Adamus from adamusdrakeproductions.com. They dive into the similarities between game mastering and teaching, the value of establishing safety tools at the table, and player driven set up and payoff.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John sits down with his sister and Twitch partner Stephanie from twitch.tv/johnandstefplay. They discuss the value of being responsible for your character’s mechanics, paying attention to team dynamics, and how D&D is a kind of Rorschach test.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In this episode, John sits down with Patrick, a newer Game Master, to discuss the value of a beginner's mindset, a Game Master's hero's journey, and how great games boil down to a collection of great moments.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. 

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Welcome to Dragon Mind, a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. In our pilot episode, two Game Masters, John and Ian, sit down to talk about their personal journeys as Dungeon Masters, creative writing, and the emotional benefits of immersive roleplaying. 

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

To join our conversations live, follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/incendiumdm

And for a giggle, visit us on https://www.tiktok.com/@incendiumdm?

Want to poke us about a question? Visit our Discord server, the Tavern, at https://discord.gg/ZfwPzjD9

Or our Reddit, reddit.com/user/Incendium_DnD/

Need to Tweet us? Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Dragon_MPodcast

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

I was going to cover Barbarian, I swear...

The new Dungeon Master's Guide is an awesome on ramp for DM-curious individuals considering taking on the role.

For more conversations on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm

Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Wild Shape has had some Wild Changes. How do you feel about the direction the designers took it? For more conversations on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

I had the privilege to sit down and chat with Dumb-Dumbs & Dice CEO Ryan LaPlante about his experiences playing and Game Mastering for their various actual play shows, like Dumb-Dumbs & Dragons and Jesters of Ravenloft.

You can follow Dumb-Dumbs & Dice on social media (including YouTube, X, and Instagram) @dumbdumbdice

and check out their Patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/dumbdumbdice

For more conversations on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm

Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Today, Ian from Incendium RPGs and I discuss our thoughts about the 2024 Player's Handbook as an overall product.

To see more of Ian's content, you can check out the Incendium RPGs channel at: https://www.youtube.com/@IncendiumRPGs

For more conversations on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm

Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Wizard was the class with the fewest changes in 2024. Was there more you were looking for out of it?

For more conversations on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm

Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

A lot of players don't like that Cleric subclasses are now gained at Level 3 instead of Level 1. How do you feel about the change? For more conversations on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

For Rogues, Hiding is now easier than ever. What were some of your experiences using the 2014 Hiding mechanics?

See Treantmonk's Fighter Damage Analysis for yourself at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IYWX33a7XA

For more conversations on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm

Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In the new Player's Handbook, Fighter is billed as a "low complexity" class. How easy do you think it is for new players to pick up? For more on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In today's episode, I spoke with Hartly Llosa, the designer of the all-wizard TTRPG Nightbringer, with a Kickstarter live now.

To support this project, head to: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/hartly/nightbringer

Subscribe to the Dragon Mind YouTube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

For more blogs and articles, subscribe to the Dragon Mind Substack at:

https://dragonmind.substack.com/

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Backgrounds have gotten a major shakeup in D&D 2024, but one major change has us still scratching our heads.

For more on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm

Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=d5f0e2513e464fee

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

One major goal of D&D 2024 was accessibility. Did the designers meet their goal?

For more on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm

Also on Spotify at:

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

The 2024 Free Rules have been released on D&D Beyond, which you can find here at: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/dnd/free-rules/playing-the-game So what are the big changes between the 2024 and 2014 engines? For more on broader TTRPG and Game Design, check out the Untitled TTRPG Podcast with Wrel and I at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5d3vzUrw9W0UpczwhbJJwvFHx7mjjrOK&si=KrtvRFllg63A9nfm And other episodes of Dragon Mind at: https://open.spotify.com/show/73itZcf2PWQrgw0RHX5gNY?si=d28f05c470514231 Also on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HIwLTBfuhnRwOdlA3Vd2d?si=505f893a9812477b To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

D&D 2024 has been cranking out preview after preview about the new system, and as a long time 5e player...I'm less excited than you may think.

For my overview conversation with Wrel (or for more podcast conversations between us), head to https://youtu.be/NdfNc-nSsU0?si=eZqHQUmSIvRNArgE

If you want to get in touch with me, send me an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or posting in the Dragon Mind channel in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Dragon Mind is also on YouTube!

For our YouTube channel, head to:

Youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Why is there such a huge gap between those of us who LOVE lore and those of us who roll our eyes at it?

Let us know by sending us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or posting in the Dragon Mind channel in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Dragon Mind is now on YouTube!

For our YouTube channel, head to:

Youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

What elements do you emphasize, downplay, or let go of in order to run a balanced TTRPG session?

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Want more Dragon Mind? Subscribe to our YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

and follow us on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

Have a question? Ask us by sending us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or posting in the Dragon Mind channel in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

What are the upsides and downsides of optimization?

Can we broaden the definition of "optimization" to make it universally useful?

Let us know by sending us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or posting in the Dragon Mind channel in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Dragon Mind is now on YouTube!

For our YouTube channel, head to:

Youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

How do you know when it's time to end the story of a character, arc, or campaign? When do you keep going and when do you say goodbye? Why are endings so hard?

For a little bit on the psychology of story endings, check out Malcolm Gladwell's episode of Revisionist History, linked below: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0703VB1lFpJLaNgv7yiHG1?si=ysK0FQBZSR2RLGShSbW46w

In this segment of the Dragon Mind TTRPG Podcast, John and Stephanie borrow brilliance from our world's most insightful minds to become better game masters, players, and people.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

Want to poke us about a question or have feedback about the podcast?

Send us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Today, I'm joined by Michael "Wrel" Henderson, a previous guest on Dragon Mind during our Playtest Panel Discussions and World Building Mini-Series to talk about his new grounded d20 TTRPG, Distal, which you can check out at playdisrpg.com

We talk about some of the system's design goals, unique mechanics, and its extremely fun backstory generation tables.

To follow Distal's development, you can subscribe to Michael's YouTube channel at youtube.com/@WarpathWrel

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

Want to poke us about a question or have feedback about the podcast?

Send us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In a recently uploaded video, Jeremy Crawford broke the news that we won't be receiving anymore playtest packets for the 2024 Player's Handbook. So, now is as good a time as ever to reflect on how it went.

References

D&D Playtest Survey Results | Player's Handbook | Unearthed Arcana

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmZvRkRsfvw

D&D Exec. Opens Up about OGL & One D&D | My Interview with Kyle Brink

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smyRYVzB_jQ&t=382s 

6:22 - Kyle Brink’s Promise

Wizards of the Coast will continue supporting third-party content for D&D

https://www.geekwire.com/2022/wizards-of-the-coast-will-continue-supporting-third-party-content-for-dd/

(Original statement pre-OGL Crisis)

D&D Studio Update: 2024 Core Rule Books and Survey Results

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYgSsn7b0f0&t=260s 

3:46 - Defining Backwards Compatibility

Weapon Masteries RANKED for One DnD

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGfZ4NaLFq0 

The "Outlier" spells that need fixed in D&D 5e, and how we do it with One D&D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R42s6ak2_1I

Check out Mike Shea's Lazy RPG Podcast at:

https://open.spotify.com/show/0QErT8qPZ1KBPSIwnGBKMZ?si=cb7aa2db52e34f32

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

Want to poke us about a question or have feedback about the podcast?

Send us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Monk definitely wins the "most-improved" award from its 2014 to 2024 versions. Which is your favorite class in D&D 2024?

Also on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

For more blogs and articles, you can check out my Substack at:

https://dragonmind.substack.com/

To join the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord, head to https://discord.gg/4CjhBQxX

Or email me directly at: dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Notice how this title's in quotes?

In today's episode, John and Stephanie discuss the notion that "No D&D is Better than Bad D&D" by investigating the root causes of "Bad D&D" and resolving the paradox of knowing that to become a skilled GM, you'll have to run games unskillfully first.

In this segment of the Dragon Mind TTRPG Podcast, John and Stephanie borrow brilliance from our world's most insightful minds to become better game masters, players, and people.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

Want to poke us about a question or have feedback about the podcast?

Send us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

One of the most under-recognized elements of Game Mastering is considering the real-world time spent playing and waiting in a game environment.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Want more Dragon Mind? Subscribe to our YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

and follow us on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

Have a question? Ask us by sending us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or posting in the Dragon Mind channel in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In today's episode, John and Stephanie discuss their experiences playtesting and how to run a successful playtest that yields helpful information.

Distal is a TTRPG in Alpha playtesting by Michael from the Playtest Panel Discussions. You can check out the system at https://linktr.ee/distalrpg

In this segment of the Dragon Mind TTRPG Podcast, John and Stephanie borrow brilliance from our world's most insightful minds to become better game masters, players, and people.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

Want to poke us about a question or have feedback about the podcast?

Send us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

We finally get a version of the Monk that (seems) to be on par with its martial-peers. Everything looks good. The question remains: does it play good?

To support this podcast, drop a 5-star review in your app of choice and let us know your favorite thing about Dragon Mind.

To submit a question or topic, email us at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or let us know in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Hot on the heels of UA 7 is UA 8: Bastions and Cantrips, as well as a discussion about the survey feedback for UA 6.

To support this podcast, drop a 5-star review in your app of choice and let us know your favorite thing about Dragon Mind.

To submit a question or topic, email us at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or let us know in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Designing an encounter can serve multiple functions.

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Want more Dragon Mind? Subscribe to our YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

and follow us on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@dragonmindttrpgs

Have a question? Ask us by sending us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or posting in the Dragon Mind channel in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

What type of Game Balance does your table enjoy?

What have been your experiences with homebrew TTRPG content?

Let us know by sending us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or posting in the Dragon Mind channel in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

In today's episode, John and Stephanie discuss the "pro mindset" that you can bring to any table you're apart of, as well as both sides of the Professional GMing relationship.

In this episode, we mention a few resources to check out. They're listed below:

Why I Quit Pro DM'ing and Is It For You? - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjU8CyoYw0k

Treantmonk's Temple - https://www.youtube.com/@TreantmonksTemple

The Eldritch Lorecast by Ghostfire Gaming - https://open.spotify.com/show/5EW3iItCF2WuyP02dCRrym

Pack Tactics - https://www.youtube.com/@PackTactics

Ginny Di - https://www.youtube.com/@GinnyDi

Bob Worldbuilder - https://www.youtube.com/@BobWorldBuilder

XP to Level 3 - https://www.youtube.com/@XPtoLevel3

Matthew Colville - https://www.youtube.com/@mcolville

The Monsters Know What They're Doing - https://www.themonstersknow.com/

In this segment of the Dragon Mind TTRPG Podcast, John and Stephanie borrow brilliance from our world's most insightful minds to become better game masters, players, and people.

This podcast is a proud member of the Darkmore Podcast Network. To discover more content from its members, visit darkmorepodcasts.com

Want to poke us about a question or have feedback about the podcast?

Send us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music

Sometimes what we think will happen and what actually happens are very different things.

What have been your experiences with homebrew TTRPG content?

Let us know by sending us an email at dragonmindpodcast@gmail.com or posting in the Dragon Mind channel in the Darkmore Podcast Community Discord at https://discord.gg/DAJcutMt

Dragon Mind is a TTRPG discussion podcast where we look through the infinite lenses of TTRPGs to discover our best selves through gaming. Gaming doesn't have to just be an escape. It can help revolutionize your reality.

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music