Explore every episode of the podcast RPG Blokes
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Golden Demon Quest (Part Three) The Final Result | 10 Sep 2026 | 00:30:10 | |
Little Mark is back from Milwaukee! He survived the customs drama, the flight, and the white-knuckle terror of transporting painted minis across the Atlantic in a Tupperware box. We’re dissecting his Golden Demon journey—from the high-stakes judging sifts to the crushing reality of tiny paint flaws that can knock you out of the running. Whether you're a seasoned display painter or just a bloke who loves some hobby banter, tune in for an unfiltered look at what it takes to compete at the top level. We're talking perfectionism, competitive construction, and why, sometimes, the act of trying really is the greatest reward. Come along for the laughs—and maybe a bit of professional jealousy. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Fighting Fantasy and Gamebooks (with Jonathan Green) | 27 Aug 2026 | 01:08:46 | |
Time for an origin story. Our origin story! Jonathan discusses what defines a gamebook, distinguishing branching stories with a problem to solve from simple choose-your-own-adventure formats. He looks at the history and appeal of Fighting Fantasy, including its role in combining fantasy, role-playing, and interactive fiction, and explains why the books attracted children through accessibility, brevity, and reader agency. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Call of Cthulhu (Part One) The Fat Maggot | 13 Aug 2026 | 00:38:06 | |
Masks of Nyarlathotep the Peru Prologue. Inside the storeroom, they make a horrific discovery: Trinity's emaciated corpse, marked by a gaping, circular wound in her chest. While searching the scene, Hudson recovers a heat-scorched, bloodstained golden strip dropped by the fleeing assailant, and Amos retrieves the victim's blood-spattered notebook. Realizing the killer must have just left or is still lurking nearby, the investigators are jolted back to immediate danger as a blood-curdling scream echoes from the main hallway upstairs. To Listen to the remaining Call of Cthulhu Episodes please support us by joining RPG Blokes Live Play. It's only $3/month, with no cancellation fee. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Beware of Bad DM's | 30 Jul 2026 | 00:43:12 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we explore the various traits and behaviors of 'bad DMs' that can negatively influence the tabletop role-playing experience. We define archetypes such as the "Tyrant DM," who stifles player agency; the "Storyteller DM," who enforces a rigid narrative; and the "Rules Lawyer DM," whose strict adherence to rules disrupts the game's flow. We also tackle the "Fudger," who alters dice rolls, and the "Killer DM," who presents relentless challenges that diminish enjoyment. The conversation further examines the "Monty Hall DM," "Absent Prepper," and the "Perpetual Side Quest Giver," underscoring the need for balance between structure and player freedom. As we reflect on our experiences, we emphasize the importance of learning and adapting to create enjoyable sessions, culminating in a lighthearted segment sharing memorable session quotes. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Will Artificial Intelligence Kill the RPG? | 16 Jul 2026 | 00:40:32 | |
In this episode we discuss AI and its effect on role-playing games, looking at where it can be useful and where it becomes problematic. We talk about using AI as a factual assistant for rules and reference material, as well as for solo play, teaching new systems, and helping players get into the hobby. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Pesky Cheats in your RPGs | 02 Jul 2026 | 01:02:48 | |
This week we’re diving into the finer points of gaming and tackling those pesky cheats! We’ve witnessed it all over the years so you won’t fool us. If you’re keen to stay informed and spot rule-breakers like we do, join us. You might even learn something about your fellow gamers – if you can ever believe another word of what they say that is! Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Battle-Mapping vs Theatre of the Mind | 18 Jun 2026 | 00:41:37 | |
In this episode of the RPG Blokes podcast, we tackle the timeless debate of battle mapping versus theatre of the mind in tabletop gaming. We examine whether using physical maps and miniatures enhances the combat experience or if relying on imagination fosters deeper engagement. Our discussions include insights from John, Stephen, and Barry as we navigate how each method influences player experiences and preferences. We explore the benefits of both approaches, weighing structured setups against the improvisational freedom offered by theatre of the mind. By sharing personal gaming anecdotes, we highlight the importance of tailoring gameplay techniques to fit the diverse needs of players. Ultimately, we propose a hybrid approach as an effective way to blend the strengths of both styles, enriching players’ adventures in the RPG landscape. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| The Golden Demon Quest (Part Two) 300 Hours Later | 04 Jun 2026 | 00:39:38 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we sit down with Little Mark for a crucial check-in before he boards a British Airways flight with a Tupperware box full of custom-painted miniatures destined for the world-famous Golden Demon competition. Having clocked over 300 hours on a single centerpiece model alone—the legendary Knights Panther—Mark gives us the direct low-down on the intense strain of high-level hobby competition. We dive deep into his tactical decision to lean heavily into classic, nostalgia-driven Old World imagery inspired by the iconic 1990s White Dwarf covers and the legendary art style of John Blanche. Visit our Discord channel to see images of the painted miniatures discussed. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay (with Graeme Davis) | 21 May 2026 | 01:05:34 | |
Anyone who knows the RPG Blokes knows that Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay is the big one for us. It’s the game that traded shiny armour and high magic for mud, disease, and a healthy dose of Chaos. This week, we are beyond chuffed to be joined by absolute RPG royalty: Graeme Davis, one of the original creators of WFRP and the architect behind the re-release of the legendary The Enemy Within campaign. Tune in to uncover the brilliance and uniqueness of the Warhammer Fantasy Roleplaying System and delve into the fascinating history of its creation. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Vampire the Masquerade (with Lore By Night) Part One | 07 May 2026 | 01:22:35 | |
Today, we’ve got a bonus episode for you all, and we’re going to cut our teeth on a new RPG. We’ve invited a true heavyweight from the World of Darkness—the one and only Lore By Night—to guide us through a Session Zero for Vampire: The Masquerade. If you’ve ever wondered how a group of “seasoned” (alright, middle-aged) blokes handles a game built on political intrigue and personal horror rather than just looting gold from goblins, this is the episode for you. We’re stepping out of the dungeon and into the shadows to show you that no matter your age or experience, there’s always a new story worth telling. Learn more about Lore By Night Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lorebynightvtm.bsky.social Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Tips on How to Stay Alive in an RPG | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:37:12 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we discuss essential survival tips for Dungeons & Dragons characters. We emphasize the importance of party cohesion, checking for traps, and engaging in role play to avoid reckless actions. Strategic positioning in combat and effective communication among players are highlighted as keys to success. Through anecdotes, we illustrate how diplomacy can avert danger and lead to victory. We conclude with critical strategies for enhancing survival chances in gaming sessions. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Pop Culture, Religion & the Redemption of D&D | 09 Apr 2026 | 00:32:20 | |
Grab your dice and light a candle for the misunderstood bards of the past. In this episode, Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry tackle the big one: The Redemption of D&D. We look back at the 80s when the media linked our hobby to the occult and suicide, and compare it to the modern era of celebrity DMs and Wembley Arena sell-outs. It gets a bit spicy as the blokes discuss how modern politics and "woke" culture are rubbing up against the hobby, and why the simple rule of "Don't be a twat" is the only thing that really matters at the table. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Painting Minis | 27 Mar 2026 | 00:45:25 | |
In this episode, we chat with Little Mark, a miniature painting expert, about the impact of miniatures in tabletop RPGs and the therapeutic benefits of painting. He shares his personal journey, evolving from a novice to a competition-level painter, while emphasizing the joy of the process over perfection. We discuss essential techniques and tools for beginners and highlight the supportive community surrounding miniature painting. The Blokes then take on a challenge to paint a miniature representing their RPG Blokes alter-egos! Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Dice Superstitions | 13 Mar 2026 | 00:23:01 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we explore the fascinating world of dice superstitions with fellow gaming enthusiasts. We each share our unique relationships with our dice, revealing a mix of methodical approaches and casual attitudes. Our discussion unveils a variety of die-related superstitions, including the “no-touch” rule and the idea of dice jails as a punishment for underperforming dice. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| The Lichemaster (Part One) WFRP Live-Play | 27 Feb 2026 | 00:49:22 | |
Fifteen years have passed since the necromancer Heinrich Kemmler was trapped and defeated. But his evil is about to begin anew. High in the Grey Mountains, chance - or fate - brings the meeting of a madman and a Chaos Daemon. And thanks to that chance, an Undead Army masses among the high peaks, preparing to roll down on the settlements below. Watch the episode on Youtube. To Listen to the remaining Lichemaster Episodes please support us by joining RPG Blokes Plus. It's only $3/month, with no cancellation fee. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| The Golden Demon Quest (Part One) The Milwaukee Plan | 13 Feb 2026 | 00:17:11 | |
Join our Discord to see photos of the work in progress. In this episode of RPG Blokes, Little Mark discusses his preparations for the Golden Demon competition in Milwaukee, reflecting on the challenges of the UK painting scene and is hopes for fresh judging perspectives in the U.S. He shares his thoughts on his competition entries—a Blood Bowl scene and a model inspired by classic artwork—along with the meticulous effort behind them. Balancing ambition with humility, he explores the emotional pressures of seeking recognition while enjoying the art journey. He also shares his concerns about how he will be transporting his miniatures and the support from his partner, making this trip a unique blend of art and adventure. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Dragon Warriors (with Dave Morris) | 30 Jan 2026 | 00:48:29 | |
In this episode, we explore the nostalgic impact of Dragon Warriors, a cornerstone in role-playing games that has shaped our gaming journeys for 40 years. Joining us is Dave Morris, co-creator of Dragon Warriors, who shares stories from its inception, including the groundbreaking choice to serialize the game into accessible booklets. We discuss the game’s distinct features, like its limited character races that enhance narrative depth, and the absence of alignment systems for nuanced character development. Dave also reveals insights into modern adaptations and revitalization efforts, highlighting the community's ongoing engagement with the game. Additionally, he offers a glimpse into his upcoming project, Jewelspider, designed to deepen the Dragon Warriors experience with a focus on improvisation and rich storytelling. Together, we celebrate the legacy of Dragon Warriors and the vibrant community it fosters. Check out Dave's Patreon here; https://www.patreon.com/c/jewelspider/membership And for details on the Day of Legend Dragon Warriors conventions visit; Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| The Serpents Venom (Part One) Dragon Warriors Live-Play | 16 Jan 2026 | 00:42:41 | |
In advance of our Interview with Dragon Warriors Co-Creator Dave Morris we are pleased to release the first episode of our live-play session of Dragon Warriors. With DW old timer Jon as GM, Mark, Barry, and Stephen create unique characters, including a noble knight, a dubious warlock, and a comically named assassin. We arrive in the town of Overdale and encounter a mysterious lady called Galadria, who presents a treasure hunt that sparks moral dilemmas and strategic discussions. As we approach a mysterious temple filled with hidden dangers, the group’s camaraderie shines through amidst the building tension, leading to a thrilling cliffhanger that sets the stage for our next episode. For the next Episode please support us by joining our Plus Feed! Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| What Have I Got Myself Into? | 02 Jan 2026 | 00:30:15 | |
Welcome back to RPG Blokes! It’s Season 2, and we’re diving into what really happens after your first few games — when “trying D&D” turns into “I think I’ve got a new hobby.” We talk about what comes next: the growing time commitment, the emotional rollercoaster of your first character, and the new worlds that open up beyond the table. From painting miniatures and buying dice sets you definitely don’t need, to joining clubs, conventions, and making new friends — it’s all part of the fun (and chaos). Barry’s moving to Scotland and might have to start his own society, Jon’s finally upgraded his laptop from the Windows 98 era, and Stephen’s recovering from seven years of DM duty — so the gang’s all here, older, wiser, and slightly more bewildered. If you’ve just started playing or are wondering what you’ve got yourself into, this is the perfect way to begin Season 2. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| The Season One Debrief | 13 Jun 2025 | 00:27:02 | |
In this season finale of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry look back on their journey through Season 1 with humour, honesty, and a healthy dose of self-deprecation. They revisit standout episodes, share behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and reflect on the show’s aim to welcome new players while still offering insight for veterans. The conversation ranges from personal highlights—like the unexpectedly popular First Session Essentials—to the highs (breaking into the UK games podcast charts) and lows (technical hiccups and Barry’s antics). They discuss how listener feedback has shaped their approach, and express genuine gratitude for the community that’s formed around the show. Looking ahead to Season 2, the hosts reveal plans to include actual-play sessions, feature guest voices from their vibrant RPG club, and explore a wider range of systems beyond D&D. It’s a heartfelt send-off for the season, with the promise of even more stories, laughs, and dice rolls to come. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| I'm Still Concerned I Might be too Old to Play D&D | 30 May 2025 | 00:23:18 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the often-overlooked topic of age in tabletop gaming, challenging the idea that Dungeons & Dragons is just for the young. They share their own stories of entering or re-entering the hobby later in life and celebrate the richness older players bring to the table. The conversation highlights the camaraderie, creativity, and connection found in RPGs—regardless of age—and how mature players often add depth, patience, and humour to any game. The hosts reflect on the evolving RPG community, noting the growing number of older newcomers and the welcoming spirit of most tables. They also offer practical tips for anyone feeling hesitant about jumping in, from starting with actual-play videos to finding inclusive local groups. Whether you’re a returning adventurer or picking up dice for the first time in decades, this episode reminds you that it’s never too late to find magic in storytelling and shared imagination. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Alignment Choices in D&D 5e | 16 May 2025 | 00:33:39 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry tackle one of Dungeons & Dragons’ most iconic (and often misunderstood) mechanics: the alignment system. From lawful good to chaotic evil, the team breaks down each of the nine alignments, sharing how they influence gameplay, storytelling, and party dynamics. The conversation highlights common pitfalls and player experiences—like the rigidity of lawful good in morally grey scenarios, the unpredictability of chaotic neutral characters, and the challenge of making true neutral feel meaningful. The hosts reflect on their own alignment mishaps and preferences, injecting humour and personal anecdotes along the way. They also explore how alignments can evolve throughout a campaign, acting as tools for character growth rather than rigid labels. The discussion touches on the history of alignments in D&D, how they’ve changed across editions, and why modern players often interpret them more flexibly. Whether you’re a stickler for rules or a free-spirited wildcard, this episode offers practical insight and plenty of laughs to help you rethink your next character’s moral compass. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Independent RPGs the Beginners Guide | 02 May 2025 | 00:37:01 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the world of tabletop RPGs beyond Dungeons & Dragons, offering insights for middle-aged newcomers eager to expand their gaming horizons. The discussion covers standout indie titles like The One Ring, Earthdawn, and Call of Cthulhu, emphasizing fresh mechanics, immersive lore, and alternative genre experiences. They delve into horror and survival games where tension and vulnerability take precedence over heroics, contrast narrative-driven systems like Vampire: The Masquerade with D&D’s level-focused structure, and celebrate licensed games such as Alien and Blade Runner for their accessible, story-rich worlds. Throughout, the hosts stress that a passionate GM and an open mind are key to unlocking the full potential of RPGs. The episode closes with practical advice on helping D&D veterans try new systems, encouraging experimentation to keep the hobby vibrant and creatively fulfilling. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| D&D The Ultimate Gateway System | 18 Apr 2025 | 00:55:52 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, the team dives into the world of Dungeons & Dragons—often called the perfect starting point for newcomers to tabletop RPGs. Stephen, the D&D veteran, shares insights from playing every edition since the 80s, while John highlights how the polished resources make the game approachable. Barry, with five years’ experience, reflects on overcoming the nerves of stepping into the Dungeon Master role. The team explores D&D’s 50-year heritage, the visual appeal of its books, and its rise in pop culture thanks to shows like Stranger Things. They discuss how D&D inspires creativity across literature, film, and gaming, and how its modular rules balance simplicity for beginners with depth for veterans. Combat, magic systems, character creation, and the thrill of levelling up all get attention, alongside the community spirit D&D fosters through local groups and online forums. With personal stories and practical advice, the episode captures what makes D&D not just a game, but a cultural phenomenon that keeps welcoming new generations of players. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| D&D Styles of Play, a Beginners Guide | 04 Apr 2025 | 00:37:15 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, the team explores the different styles of roleplaying games, helping middle-aged newcomers find the right fit for their first adventures. Mark, John, and Barry kick things off with sandbox games, where player freedom drives the story. John champions this open style, while Barry notes the challenge of keeping players engaged. They move on to dungeon crawls and hack-and-slash games—Barry’s favourite—for their straightforward, action-packed gameplay that’s great for beginners. Survival horror gets a spotlight next, with tense decisions and brutal combat. Mark and Barry reflect on Call of Cthulhu and how fear and vulnerability shape the experience. The team then discusses mystery and investigation games, comparing narrative-heavy systems to more combat-focused ones like D&D. Finally, they touch on epic campaigns—long, character-driven arcs that D&D does best—blending combat, story, and progression. Packed with advice and personal stories, the episode helps listeners find the RPG style that suits their playstyle and group best. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Your Dungeon Master, the DM Demystified | 21 Mar 2025 | 00:39:46 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, the crew tackles the mysteries of being a Dungeon Master, exploring the essential role this figure plays in tabletop RPGs. Whether you're new to gaming or just curious about what goes on behind the DM screen, there's valuable insight here for everyone. Mark, Stephen, John, and Barry share their seasoned experiences, offering perspectives from both sides of the table. Stephen talks about adapting DM styles to player needs, balancing structure with spontaneity. John provides thoughtful advice on interpreting rules and storytelling, ensuring the player's enjoyment remains central. Barry, representing the player's viewpoint, outlines what qualities make an effective DM, highlighting the importance of welcoming atmospheres, rule mastery, and clear communication from both players and DMs. Packed with practical tips and engaging anecdotes, the Blokes discuss the finer points of bringing NPCs to life with distinctive voices and memorable mannerisms, as well as handling tricky scenarios like splitting the party. Above all, they stress collaboration and mutual respect as keys to a fulfilling RPG experience, empowering new players and fostering a sense of shared storytelling and camaraderie at the table. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| D&D Table Etiquette - Insider Tips on How to Get Along | 07 Mar 2025 | 00:49:39 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, the crew dives into the essentials of table etiquette, offering insider tips on how to enhance the group experience in tabletop RPGs. Whether you’re new to role-playing or a seasoned player, there’s something here for everyone looking to strengthen their social game at the table. The hosts cover key aspects like punctuality, respecting others’ turns, and when it’s appropriate to chime in, alongside tips on managing phone usage, asking questions, and staying engaged with the story. With a mix of practical advice and relatable stories from their own experiences, the Blokes give listeners a lighthearted but insightful guide on how to balance fun and focus in their games. Discover the value of being a good listener, the art of character introductions, and the unwritten rules that make RPGs both inclusive and immersive. Whether you’re at a relaxed home game or a more formal table, this episode is packed with tips to help you feel confident, respectful, and ready to make the most of every game session. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Creating Your First D&D Character | 21 Feb 2025 | 00:31:59 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we help new players take their first big step into the world of Dungeons & Dragons—creating their first character. Where do you start? Do you need a backstory? Should you plan every detail, or just roll the dice and see what happens? The Blokes are here to guide you through the process, making character creation less intimidating and a lot more fun. We kick things off with the basics—race, class, background, and how these choices shape not just your stats but your character’s personality. Stephen, our resident rogue enthusiast, talks about finding a solid hook to anchor your character’s motivations. Barry, known for his love of chaos (and pub fights), explains why personality can sometimes be more important than power. And Jon, with his scholarly approach, dives into how characters evolve through play. What about session zero? We discuss why talking with your DM and fellow players before the first session can make all the difference, helping to set expectations and avoid common pitfalls. The Blokes also share their first-ever D&D characters, proving there’s no “wrong” way to start—whether you build an elaborate backstory or just jump in and see where the adventure takes you. So grab your dice and a character sheet—it’s time to roll up your first adventurer! Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| D&D First Session Essentials Part 2 | 07 Feb 2025 | 00:34:41 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we continue our guide for new and returning players with First Session Essentials Part 2. This time, we focus on what other paraphernalia you might need to bring to the gaming table and what you can safely leave behind. We start with the essentials—yes, you’ll need dice, but don’t panic if you don’t have your own set (yet). Digital vs. paper character sheets? Both have their place, though the Blokes have strong opinions on which one actually helps you learn the game. Then there are the extras. Miniatures, reference cards, and fancy accessories—do they improve your game or just empty your wallet? The Blokes weigh in on which items genuinely help and which are just part of the RPG rabbit hole we all inevitably fall down. And of course, the most important question: should you bring snacks? Spoiler: absolutely yes. To wrap up, the Blokes share their most treasured RPG items, from custom dice boxes to well-worn rulebooks, proving that what matters most isn’t what you bring, but the stories you create. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| D&D First Session Essentials Part 1 | 24 Jan 2025 | 00:23:59 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we explore what new and returning players need to know before their first RPG session. This is Part 1 of a two-part series designed to ease you into the world of tabletop gaming and help you make the most of your first adventure. We dive into the importance of preparation, from understanding basic rules to deciding whether you need a rulebook at all. Do you need to study the lore or have a character fully mapped out before you begin? Not necessarily—but it can enhance your experience! We share tips on balancing background knowledge with the joy of discovering your character during play. The Blokes discuss character creation, whether to arrive with a clear concept in mind, and why focusing on fun rather than "min-maxing" can lead to a more enjoyable first session. We also explore the role of game lore and how understanding the setting can enrich your experience without overwhelming you. Ultimately, it’s not about memorizing rules or crafting the perfect character—it’s about taking that first step, leaning on the support of your group, and immersing yourself in the collaborative storytelling that makes RPGs so special. 🎧 Listen now: www.rpgblokes.com/follow Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Do I Have Time to Play D&D? | 10 Jan 2025 | 00:31:58 | |
In this episode of RPG Blokes, Mark, Barry, Jon, and Stephen tackle a fundamental question for newcomers and seasoned players alike: “Do you have the time to play an RPG?” With work, family, and life’s responsibilities, it’s not always easy to carve out time for hobbies. The Blokes discuss the realities of balancing work schedules, commuting, and family commitments with the time demands of gaming. They explore session lengths, campaign commitments, and how much time you really need to dedicate to character prep and gameplay. From three-hour weekly sessions to sprawling 18-month campaigns, they highlight the flexibility of RPGs and offer insights into finding the right balance for your lifestyle. Whether you’re managing shift work, navigating busy weeks, or simply curious about what it takes to join a game, this episode is packed with advice and anecdotes to help you decide if RPGs can fit into your life. Slice and dice your way into this time-focused discussion! Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Online vs In Person. Which way should you play D&D? | 27 Dec 2024 | 00:23:24 | |
Online or in-person—where should you play? In this episode of RPG Blokes, Mark, Barry, Jon, and Stephen weigh in on the great debate, offering insights from decades of gaming experience. Whether you’re a newcomer wondering where to start or a seasoned player navigating modern gaming trends, this discussion has something for you. First up: online gaming. The Blokes share their experiences with digital platforms like Roll20 and Foundry, exploring the pros and cons. Barry reflects on how online gaming became a lifeline during lockdown, keeping social connections alive and even boosting mental health. Jon highlights the convenience of gaming from anywhere, but also flags the frustrations of technical hiccups and mic etiquette. Then it’s over to the in-person table. Stephen argues that nothing beats the natural flow of conversation and camaraderie around a physical table, where character interactions and storytelling come alive. While online platforms offer accessibility for those with social anxiety or mobility challenges, the group agrees that in-person play delivers a unique and irreplaceable magic. Ultimately, it’s not about which is “better” but what works for you. Whether you’re joining a local game or logging in from miles away, RPGs are all about connection, creativity, and community. The Blokes encourage listeners to embrace whatever format fits their life and enjoy the rich experiences these games provide. Ready to roll the dice? There’s a whole world of adventure waiting for you. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| Why Play D&D? And What’s in it for You! | 13 Dec 2024 | 00:35:04 | |
Who says adventure is just for the young? In this second episode, the RPG Blokes—Mark, Barry, Jon, and Stephen—are here to prove that role-playing games are tailor-made for us slightly older (and maybe a bit wiser) adventurers. Drawing on their combined century of gaming experience, they’ll show you how RPGs aren’t just “games” but epic tools for hitting those core emotional sweet spots: security, connection, achievement, purpose—you name it. Ever feel like your daily grind could use a little magic? The Blokes reveal how stepping into the shoes of a character can whisk you away from the stress and into a world that fuels creativity, stokes new friendships, and pretty much lights up your soul. From transforming ho-hum evenings into unforgettable storytelling sessions, to forging bonds you never saw coming, they’ll share why RPGs truly bring people together. Worried about being shy at the table or not knowing where to start? Relax—the RPG community is a warm, welcoming place where it’s perfectly fine to be a newbie. The Blokes break down how easy it is to get involved and how embracing this hobby can inject fresh purpose and delight into your life, no matter your age. By the time you’ve listened in, you’ll be ready to grab some dice, find a table, and start weaving stories that matter—both on and off the game board. After all, it’s never too late to start a quest! Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||
| What is a Tabletop RPG? And Why You’re Never Too Old to Play D&D | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:35:55 | |
Welcome to the very first episode of RPG Blokes! We’re four middle-aged mates from London, UK, with a shared passion for tabletop role-playing games (RPGs). We believe this hobby has the power to bring endless joy, creativity, and connection to people like us—whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, 60s or beyond, It's a great way to remain young at heart. For years, we’ve been introducing people to RPGs in our local community, while running one of the largest RPG weekly clubs in London, and now we’re inviting you, wherever you are, to join the adventure. If you’ve ever been curious about what RPGs are or how to get started, we’re here to guide you. Our goal is simple: to inspire adults who’ve never played before—or are returning after years away—to give RPGs a try. In this episode, we’ll start at the very beginning: What is an RPG? We’ll assume you know nothing and break it down in a way that’s friendly, relatable, and easy to understand. Sure, you can Google it and get a textbook definition, but we’re here to give you our perspective on that definition. This podcast isn’t just about explaining the basics—it’s about building a community and following your journey into this amazing hobby. So, give us a chance, and let’s see if we can convince you that role-playing games might just be the adventure you didn’t know you needed. Sign up to RPG Blokes Live Play and gain access to all our adventures. Check us out on our official Website. Join Our Discord Community and continue the conversation with us. | |||