Explore every episode of the podcast Nerdcognito
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Worth the Wait? - Nerdcognito Episode 298 | 14 Oct 2025 | 01:19:52 | |
Bert brings a great question to the table: Are long-gapped sequels in nerdy movies really worth the wait? The gang and special guest Yang, Yan Zhao tear through a litney of new again old films! Plus, Yang talks about his upcoming TTRPG release for both 5e D&D and the OSR, Empire of the Undying Sun!
*** Be a Check Mark Hero: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VREXR2J3E6GGA *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates We earn a small commission for each purchase at no additional cost to you!
Looking for dice? https://onlycrits.com/nerdcognito
Grab something from DriveThru! http://drivethrurpg.com/?affiliate_id=3908211
Get YOUR T-shirt! https://amzn.to/3D5xr0z Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Edition Wars: The Cut Line - Nerdcognito Episode 297 | 07 Oct 2025 | 01:10:30 | |
Inspired by a question posed by the Nerdcognito Nation this past weekend on the Saturday Speakeasy, the gang decides if, and when, they would have "halted" edition progression in D&D. System nuance and personal preferences all get discussed about this fictional grand choice that could be made for the good of the hobby.
*** Be a Check Mark Hero: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VREXR2J3E6GGA *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates We earn a small commission for each purchase at no additional cost to you!
Looking for dice? https://onlycrits.com/nerdcognito
Grab something from DriveThru! http://drivethrurpg.com/?affiliate_id=3908211
Get YOUR T-shirt! https://amzn.to/3D5xr0z Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Railroading?!? - Nerdcognito Episode 288 | 05 Aug 2025 | 01:16:07 | |
We're chugging down the line! This week we look into the dreaded DM device.... railroading. Is there any good that can come of it? Why and how is it applied in Dungeons and Dragons and the TTRPG hobby? Also, we have a chat with Ben from the Manacaster team about their current projects!
*** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 201: Censorship in Play aka ”You Can’t Do THAT!”; Gaming Gift Ideas | 28 Nov 2023 | 01:04:24 | |
With major publishers now putting content restrictions in print about what subjects players may or may not talk about during the game, the guys examine how we got here and why or why not dictating content is acceptable. Hint: It's not. The news brings Bert another surreal not-quite-horse moment about how nuts some segments of the hobby have become. Lastly, the gang talks about what might make an excellent gift to "lure" a new player to the table!
----more---- Don't forget to get your Gatekeeping Is Good shirt on Amazon! Support the show and hold that door! https://amzn.to/3R60vt3
----more---- The News:
----more---- Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 200: Celebrating 200 Episodes and Revisiting the Best from the Past! | 21 Nov 2023 | 01:22:04 | |
What a ride! THANK YOU ALL for allowing us into your ears each week! This episode we bring back the OG co-host, Just Mike (with his bad audio and all), and the entire gang strolls down memory lane and revisits topics from shows gone by. Everything including Brandi Braids, predicting WotC's fall from grace, safety tools, DTRPG ousting The Red Room, and the guys outlining their "perfect" game. You don't want to miss lots of laughs, good times, and clinking a pint with us in reverie!
----more---- Don't forget to get your Gatekeeping Is Good shirt on Amazon! Support the show and hold that door! https://amzn.to/3R60vt3
----more---- The News:
----more---- Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 199: Tropes in TTRPGs; Confirmation Bias and All of Us | 14 Nov 2023 | 01:01:21 | |
Who doesn't love the horny bard? The orphaned princess? The mad wizard? Answer: after thousands of iterations, everyone. This week the guys look at tropes in the TTRPG sphere and discuss both the good and the bad elements of their presence. Bert is surly, but that doesn't prevent the news from presenting yet another game that makes Kyle spin. After the news, the team has a frank conversation about confirmation bias and how it presents in the hobby -- among all of us! From the OSR to Fauxs to SparkleTrolls, it is baggage that we all must remember we bring to the table.
----more----
----more---- The News:
----more---- Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 198: The TTRPG/D&D Controversy Carousel; Racism in a New Group Finder App? | 07 Nov 2023 | 00:58:32 | |
Why do the same (lame) topics of "controversy" keep coming up in the TTRPG space? Because... it's the "Controversy Carousel!" The only way un-creatives can put themselves and their terrible ideology over! After a few go-rounds, the guys talk about a serious accusation and blowup in the OSR over potential reverse racism from a game group finding app. Lastly, the gang goes through the news and talks about sidestepping from a TTRPG to some other sort of nerdy goodness.
----more----
----more---- The News:
----more---- Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 197: Booting Horrible Players; Disturbing Monsters; Bad Horror Sequels | 31 Oct 2023 | 01:01:27 | |
HAPPY HALLOWEEN! We've all had to do it -- whether we like it or not. Sometimes, THAT player has to GO. The guys discuss why and how you may need to remove a player from a gaming group. RD goes off the rails dreaming about Heather Graham during the news. After, the boys toss out a favorite, disturbing monster for your Halloween game and rattle of "worst" horror sequels (yes, there are a lot!).
----more----
----more---- The News:
----more---- Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Ginny's D&D Romance Guide - Nerdcognito Episode 287 | 29 Jul 2025 | 01:23:47 | |
This week, the gang EFAPs a Ginny Di video dedicated to bringing "romance" to your TTRPG table. Digging deeper in the video, discussion emerges about the social state of our nerd culture, and culture in general. Plus, RD learns the word "situationship," and promptly melts down. After the nerds recover, they also briefly dig into the news.
*** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Playing with Yourself, aka "Solo Gaming" - Nerdcognito Episode 286 | 22 Jul 2025 | 01:28:02 | |
Solo gaming has always existed but has seen large boons thanks to board games and TTRPGs over the last decade. This week Ryan, Bert, and Kyle dig into the idea of solo gaming and discuss its nuances. Plus, due to popular demand, Siobhan officially joins the gang for her first full episode of the big show!
*** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Mothership Mania and D&D "Franchising" - Nerdcognito Episode 285 | 15 Jul 2025 | 01:14:44 | |
This week, Ryan finally got to introduce Bert and his core group to the sci-fi horor experience that is Mothership. Listen to their thoughts on the game, it's feel, and how they will handle some horrific nuance at the table. Then, sandwiched in with the news is a detailed discussion about Dungeons and Dragons newest executive in charge of "franchise," WotC vet and the man that ran Halo into the ground. How's THAT for a "fresh start?"
*** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Does Your Game Flow? - Nerdcognito Episode 284 | 08 Jul 2025 | 01:13:30 | |
How important is it that you as a Dungeon Master and your players have a good "flow" in your game? It's not just about moving along plot points or hitting story beats... it is an overall feeling that your table is not stuck in the mud! The guys discuss this before an interview with the creator of Mafia Blitz, the new "werewolf-esque" game that's coming soon!
*** Find the Mafia Blitz KS here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/markiradian/mafia-blitz *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| SPECIAL: Wonderfilled or Wonder-fooled with Stephen Dinehart? - Nerdcognito Episode 283 | 01 Jul 2025 | 01:09:12 | |
Wonderfilled Games founder and CEO Stephen Erin Dinehart IV has been making waves, anti-white statements, and according to some "crashed out" over the past two weeks. Ryan David had questions, opinions, and accusations that needed answers, so he invited Stephen on for a brutally honest and frank discussion about his actions and statements. Finalize your opinion and decide if we all were "Wonderfooled." Enjoy the UNCUT and EXCLUSIVE full interview with Stephen.
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Castles: "Walls of Stone; Tales of Glory!" - Nerdcognito Podcast Episode 282 | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:41:45 | |
This week, Bert and Jack steer the conversation to Castles! Why are these structures revered and critical components in our tabletop and fantasy games? Naturally, the conversation spirals around to all sorts of tangents, and why shouldn't it? Especially considering that RD is still out on vacation and Kyle slept through his alarm!
*** A Note to our Check Mark Heroes - you are not forgotten and are appreciated! This was a weird week, so apologies all around!
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Have Some Class! - Nerdcognito Podcast Episode 281 | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:50:11 | |
The guys continue where they left off last week and finish out the news before they dive into a discussion of creating custom classes. Of course, this spirals into a full on discussion about classes, class systems, and other tangents! Have some class... give a listen or watch!
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Large Scale Combat in D&D/TTRPGs - Nerdcognito Episode 280 | 10 Jun 2025 | 01:03:09 | |
As the gang looks forward to a week of vacation, this first part of a two part episode brings you a discussion of large scale combat and big battles in TTRPGs! There are a bevy of ways to handle these as a Dungeon Master, but when your party goes to war... what works for YOUR table? All the massive scale chatter you can handle, plus a tiptoe into the news make for a delightful "part one" episode!
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Why Does it ALWAYS Come Down to SEX? - Nerdcognito Episode 279 | 03 Jun 2025 | 01:29:58 | |
Lord Matteus sits in as guest host to discuss eroticism, sexuality, and naughty bits in gaming -- specifically taking a look at Paizo's new rainbow-stravaganza game blurring the lines between the gaming table and LGBT activism. After the news, the gang talks about long game sequels and how a show can be necro'ed, sometimes after decades!
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| "Controversial" Monsters - Nerdcognito Episode 296 | 30 Sep 2025 | 01:08:51 | |
The internet and weak progressive culture never cease to amaze. This week, we tear through a list of "controversial" monsters that some want re-imagined for modern audiences or even outright eliminated. Put your spandex on -- it's time for mental gymnastics!
*** Be a Check Mark Hero: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VREXR2J3E6GGA *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates We earn a small commission for each purchase at no additional cost to you!
Looking for dice? https://onlycrits.com/nerdcognito
Grab something from DriveThru! http://drivethrurpg.com/?affiliate_id=3908211
Get YOUR T-shirt! Shop Amazon and Support the Show: | |||
| D&D Campaign Longevity: Why WE Have It and SparkeTrolls Don't - Nerdcognito Episode 278 | 27 May 2025 | 01:13:39 | |
We know that the "six sessions" that the modern DnD gamer call a campaign seems short, so this week we ask the question of "why?" The differences between Classic Gaming/OSR tables vs. modern absolutely impact how we can have campaigns lasting years while they can't make a week. Then after the news, the guys break down the latest in the City State of the Invincible Overlord drama between Judge's Guild and Goodman Games.
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Just Between Friends (Daniel D. Fox, One Year Later) - Nerdcognito Episode 277 | 20 May 2025 | 01:16:43 | |
One year later... Daniel D. Fox, controversial creator of Zweihander and other TTRPGs, returns to Nerdcognito. His first trip addressed the "why we should not like each other" bits... and we came out of it... friends?!? This time around, Dan sits in with Ryan and Kyle and just talk about the hobby, their families, Wizards of the Coast, a hint of politics, and their friendship. Plus, Ryan introduces Daniel to the news... with a hint of Reddit!
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Modern State of the Woke Overlord - Nerdcognito Episode 276 | 13 May 2025 | 01:22:15 | |
Goodman Games, creators of Dungeon Crawl Classics are now endeavoring to re-release The City State of the Invincible Overlord -- a legendary module which shaped Dungeons and Dragons and TTRPGs. Two issues have them drawing fire from all sides. "Reimagining for modern audiences" has Classic Gaming and the OSR up in arms while supporting a creator the SparkleTroll leftists view as a 1940s German is bringing ire from the other side. We dig deep into the situation and discuss if and how Goodman can navigate this minefield.
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Rule Zero Rumble - Nerdcognito Episode 275 | 06 May 2025 | 01:14:24 | |
Rule Zero! The gang dives back into Rule 0 as TTRPG/DnD buzz online has picked up about it, RAW (rules as written), and the pros and cons of implementing this at the table. Opinions are across the board, and Bert gets a little hot at RD. Plus not one, but TWO trips to Reddit... with a twist!
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Foxy Reflections - Nerdcognito Episode 274 | 29 Apr 2025 | 01:14:56 | |
The guys reflect back on the visit that shocked the hobby... when Daniel D. Fox, creator of Zweihander and "enemy of the OSR" sat in and talked with RD and Kyle. We revisit this chat in anticipation of the upcoming "One Year Later" episode when Dan stops by again! Plus, chatter about the nerdy things we love, the news, and... a trip to Reddit!
*** Check out the FULL original appearance here:
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW:
Be a Check Mark Hero:
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| What's YOURS is Wizards' - Nerdcognito Episode 273 | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:44:02 | |
Ryan doesn't have a voice, but that doesn't stop he and Kyle from educating the very disconencted-from-the-internet Bert about the recent delving into Wizards of the Coast's license agreement -- which can be interpreted as opening the door to "stealing" content from designers and players alike. We don't often agree, but we can agree on this... content lifting is NOT cool.
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| WotC Spring Cleaning... and the future of D&D - Nerdcognito Episode 272 | 15 Apr 2025 | 01:17:18 | |
Jeremy Crawford has followed in the footsteps of others and "exited" (on his terms?) Wizards of the Coast. With now ALL of the core designers and decision makers out of the mix, where does this leave Dungeons and Dragons specifically, and the future of hobby in general?
*** DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Tariffs, Tension, and TTRPGs - Nerdcognito Episode 271 | 08 Apr 2025 | 01:16:01 | |
With a tumultuous economy made even more murky with tariffs, the future of the hobby has been questioned by some. In today's slightly-more-political-than-usual Nerdcognito, the guys discuss tariffs in general and then move the lens over our hobby. How can and will these increased potential costs impact design, product availability, and production in general?
DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Homebrew: Another "Lost Art" - Nerdcognito Episode 270 | 01 Apr 2025 | 01:13:59 | |
Ryan rounds up Kyle and Bert to discuss yet another lost art in the modern DnD/TTRPG hobby: Homebrewing. Why is it fading? Where has the creativity of the modern Dungeons & Dragons fan gone? Can this bespoke talent be resurrected or is it destined to vanish?
DIRECTLY SUPPORT THE SHOW: *** Be a Check Mark Hero: https://www.nerdcognito.com/p/be-a-check-mark-hero/ *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Taking a Breather - Nerdcogntio Episode 269 | 25 Mar 2025 | 01:09:51 | |
With Wizards of the Coast all but scrapping their official VTT for Dungeons & Dragons, laying off 90% of their digital staff, and Shadowdark roaring... we need a break! The gang talks about their gaming, enjoy a session recap from the Nerdcognito group, and dive into other news from the hobby this week. Reset button smashed!
***
Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Defending Filthy Storygamers - Nerdcognito Episode 295 | 23 Sep 2025 | 01:04:09 | |
This week, after playing a "filthy storygame" (and having a good time, which is WHY we game in the first place), the Nerdcognito crew digs deep into storygames and discusses their place and setting at your tabletop roleplaying table. It ain't D&D, by design.
*** Be a Check Mark Hero: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VREXR2J3E6GGA *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates We earn a small commission for each purchase at no additional cost to you!
Looking for dice? https://onlycrits.com/nerdcognito
Grab something from DriveThru! http://drivethrurpg.com/?affiliate_id=3908211
Get YOUR T-shirt! Shop Amazon and Support the Show: | |||
| Shadowdark Sovereignty! - Nerdcognito Episode 268 | 18 Mar 2025 | 01:22:14 | |
Ryan David leads the Nerdcognito crew through The Arcane Library's latest journey with Shadowdark. The gang discuss the success of the current Kickstarter, the impact of SD to the hobby, and even posit some positive (and negative) future outcomes. Kelsey and Shadowdark have changed the landscape of the industry, and everone needs to pay attention to the new terrain!
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| ADHD-cognito; a.k.a. If Things Can Go Wrong... - Nerdcognito Episode 267 | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:55:04 | |
The boys get together to commiserate with Ryan; it seems like everything that could go wrong this week, did.
The gang bounces around idea to idea and talk about random, flitting nerdy things... while RD broods.
Forgive the audio quality as our production board blew up. Forgive the lack of format as our brains blew up.
***
Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Reddit Can Go To Hell - Nerdcognito Episode 266 | 04 Mar 2025 | 01:14:18 | |
Minutes after the announcement of the late Ernie Gygax's passing... SparkleTrolls went on the attack online. Of course, this was hosted on Reddit. We take them to task here.
Be like Ernie.
***
Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Zero D&D Prep... "That's Too Much!" - Nerdcognito Episode 265 | 25 Feb 2025 | 01:18:12 | |
Small groups of loud voices with bad takes are shouting into the void about "Zero Prep" and what it means. When is no prep too much prep? How absurd can it get? We laugh as fauxs and joes alike double down on an absurd argument.
***
Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Romance Rules?!? Pathfinder/Paizo Codify the Obvious - Nerdcognito Episode 264 | 18 Feb 2025 | 01:15:48 | |
Paizo has done it again, reminding us that they are no friend of the mainstream gamer. Catering to the woke warriors and weirdos that do not really play the game, they will be introducing mechanics for romance in their new core book. That's right, your resident rules laywer can now argue the size of their... heart.
***
Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| The "Lost Art" of Mapping in D&D - Nerdcognito Episode 263 | 11 Feb 2025 | 01:17:16 | |
Lost arts at the TTRPG table. Mapping in Dungeons & Dragons was at the top of the list this past weekend on the Speak, so the conversation continues here. Plus, the news of the week and a sidestep into another lost art -- the investigation.
***
Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| 2025 Monster Manual Madness - Nerdcognito Episode 262 | 04 Feb 2025 | 01:16:18 | |
The 2025 Monster Manual is out! The changes are woke! And crippling! And lore erasing (literally!) The gang goes through the most egregious of these changes and discusses the future of these monsters and Dungeons and Dragons in general. Although they expected it to be bad, they did not expect it to be this dramatic of a change. What does this mean for the future of the hobby?
***
The News:
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| The Satanic Panic, Revisited! - Nerdcognito Episode 261 | 28 Jan 2025 | 01:12:15 | |
"There was no satanic panic." Ok, pal. The gang deep dives into an apparent X engagement grab and examines what they believe to be the root cause of the campaign against D&D, Heavy Metal, and more in the 1980s. The triple-six discussion is capped off with a trip into the news of the week! *** The News: Kaiju! *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates: Shop Amazon and Support the Show: https://amzn.to/3djotja | |||
| Horsing Around with Horse Girl; Former BrOSR Phenom Joel Peterson - Nerdcognito Episode 260 | 21 Jan 2025 | 01:27:20 | |
After spending some time in the Nerdcognito Nation... Jack asks the forbidden question, "What is Horse Girl?" Well, he finds out. Then we take a trip into the news with a dip in the Reddit cesspool! After the news, former BrOSR, Joel Peterson drops in to talk about his bro journey as well as his video and tabletop games development. Suck it, Cuppa!
***
The News:
*** WATCH THIS EPISODE'S VIDEO VERSION ON OUR RUMBLE CHANNEL! https://rumble.com/c/Nerdcognito ***
Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| DnD 2025 Monster Manual... They did WHAT? - Nerdcognito Episode 259 | 14 Jan 2025 | 01:10:02 | |
Ryan, Jack, and Bert dig into the details of the 2025 Monster Manual. It's great... if you listen to the pop gaming media. We have other opinions. After slogging through the news, the gang each throw out the name of their personal "favorite" TTRPG monster book.
***
The News:
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Pacifist Characters: Do No Harm? - Nerdcognito Episode 294 | 16 Sep 2025 | 01:11:26 | |
The gang talks about how and if you should implement a "pacifist" character into your tabletop game. What are the challenges for not only the player, but the dungeon master, and the group as a whole? This plus some much needed laughs and the news.
*** Be a Check Mark Hero: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VREXR2J3E6GGA *** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates We earn a small commission for each purchase at no additional cost to you!
Looking for dice? https://onlycrits.com/nerdcognito
Grab something from DriveThru! http://drivethrurpg.com/?affiliate_id=3908211
Get YOUR T-shirt! Shop Amazon and Support the Show: | |||
| "Anticolonialism" Screeching; Nerdy Vacay Destinations - Nerdcognito Episode 258 | 07 Jan 2025 | 01:03:56 | |
A prominent and previously politically benign designer gets political and then blasted for talking down to you about "Anticolonialism" in your TTRPG game. The guys have some very pointed opinions, as expected. The news delves into more DnD "lifestyle brand" announcements. After the gang survives another week of news, they share a list of the "best" nerdy vacation and holiday spots. Of course, this list of the best... well, it isn't.
***
The News:
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Best D&D Party Ever; Don't Remake THIS! - Nerdcognito Episode 257 | 31 Dec 2024 | 01:09:35 | |
Nerdcognito LIVE!
This special dual-broadcast episode kicks off with the gang talking about what makes the "quintessential DnD party." What group of characters is almost a must-have for a TTRPG campaign of adventure? The news highlights a pondering that makes people scratch their heads, likely because of the source. After the news, what media -- across all mediums -- should NEVER be "remade, re-envisioned, or reimagined?"
***
The News:
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Christmastime in the Nation!; Siobhan Invades the News - Nerdcognito Episode 256 | 24 Dec 2024 | 01:16:01 | |
It's Christmastime and the gang is talking all aspects of the holiday! Hear what each of the guys would love to see under their tree and what they have planned for the season! Plus, all the news you could want (or not want)! Siobhan also invades a news segment with some "fan" insight to a story that carried over from the Speakeasy -- "Dungeons and Drag Queens." Top off your eggnog and strap in for a fun Christmas chat; dragons optional.
*** The News:
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 255: Fan Fiction v. Canon; Holiday Themed Games | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:58:35 | |
Fan Fiction has always existed, but now, the lines between fanfic and canon are blurred. The barrier for entry of user created schlock into canon has all but been removed. Is this a good or a bad thing? How does this effect the hobby and your table? After the news, RD, Bert, and Kyle discuss holiday games at the TTRPG table. What role do these play and why do they exist?
*** The News:
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 254: Drizzt is "Too Problematic"; D&D Movie Replacements | 10 Dec 2024 | 00:59:32 | |
RD has no voice and the gang pick up the slack! Drizzt Do'Urden is too "problematic" for Wizards of the Coast to produce in a TV show.. or possibly any "old Drizzt" materials according to the pop gaming media and your average SparkleTroll. The news features a story that makes RD vow to revisit it on the next Speakeasy. Lastly, the guys rattle off movies that are better Dungeons and Dragons movies than the existing DnD films.
*** The News:
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 253: Pros and Cons if Elon Musk Buys Hasbro; Leave Them Kids Alone! | 03 Dec 2024 | 01:09:24 | |
With the TTRPG scene buzzing about Elon Musk potentially buying Hasbro and/or Wizards of the Coast, the guys weigh in with pros... AND cons of a possible Musk takeover. You might be surprised about who has apprehension! Then, after the news, the gang talks about a push in gaming to intentionally produce games as a mental health tool! But wait, it's worse! ...a mental health therapeutic designed for children.
*** The News:
*** Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| SPECIAL Nerdcognito - Episode 252: BDubs of the BrOSR | 26 Nov 2024 | 01:06:20 | |
You do not need to check your glasses or rub your eyes... Ryan has invited BDubs of the #BrOSR to pop in to the big show. Never shying away from a conversation with anyone, this special episode does not disappoint! With the noticeable shift in power, poise, and presentation, RD had to find out the "State of the BroSR." BDubs does not disappoint talking about general bro theory, Brozer, and the perceived shift in power in this niche of our niche. Of course, "Where's Jeffro?" comes up and the guys find some common ground and diverging philosophy with the new number one in the BrOSR.
----more---- The News:
----more---- Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 251: Paladins MUST BE Lawful Good!; "DnD Math Is Too Hard!" | 19 Nov 2024 | 01:08:29 | |
We hop on the controversy carousel and FINALLY give our thoughts on the old argument about paladins. Which of the gang believes they must be Lawful Good (and human) and who is playing the tiefling holy warrior? Then, we tackle the news with pop gaming garbage that boggles the minds of each of the guys. Lastly, we take a trip to Reddit where a LOT of SparkleTrolls and NuGamers are bemoaning that "DnD is too hard!" Crunch is good!
----more---- The News:
----more---- Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 250: Building a "Perfect" TTRPG; Aberrations! | 12 Nov 2024 | 01:11:04 | |
The whole gang is here and Ryan David leads the discussion around what "bones" are a must-have for the perfect fantasy role playing game? Spanning from philosophy to mechanics, the crew nominate elements that they simply couldn't exclude from their own "perfect D&D." The news is just one article -- but what an article it is! Do you know what your dice type tells the table about YOU? After that silliness, the guys discuss aberrations including personal favorites and weaker entries.
----more---- Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||
| Nerdcognito - Episode 249: 2024 Dungeon Master's Guide GUTTED! Erased Options & Choices for 5e Tables! | 05 Nov 2024 | 01:06:08 | |
Wizards of the Coast has further GUTTED 2024 Dungeons and Dragons. Thanks to a leak and preview materials, we review all of the options and play choices that new to the hobby players and 5e folks alike now have had erased! It's not just an attack on most current players and old school classic gamers, it's open season for anything that doesn't fit the VTT model. Ryan and Kyle dig into the most egregious deletions and wonder how the DMG can provide any insight to a new GM and/or group.
----more---- The News:
----more---- Episode Sponsors and Affiliates:
| |||