How do you prepare a new game for running at a convention, event or just with your friends? Gaz is joined by Stunt Ben, Guy from the Burn After Running blog and Craig from Third Floor Wars to give you all the advice you need and more!

We were delighted to have returning guest Jason Cordova on to talk about all things Brindlewood Bay, The Gauntlet and more!

The Gauntlet

Feat of a Black Dragon

The Darkened Threshold

Burn After Running

Unconventional GMs

Episode 181 – Gaming in Ukraine with Tasha from idearoll

Fresh from The Kraken gaming retreat, the lads have met old friends and made new ones. Chief among those is Tasha from the idearoll youtube channel, who joins them this week to talk about gaming events, the scene in Ukraine and challenges of the current environment. A great episode full of enthusiasm and community spirit!

You can find the idearoll channel below (in Ukrainian), which also has several other links for supporting the team’s efforts. idearoll on YouTube.

Get yourself a copy of the Vaesen Spirits and Monsters of Mythic Ukraine on Drivethru here.

Charitable links:
Defence And Demining
Medical Aid
Rebuild Ukraine
Come Back Alive
Hospitallers

If you dig actual plays, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel. Lots of great games played with vim and vigour in two hours or less.

Episode 94 - Kate Welch Interview
(a.k.a. Stat Blocks and Vegetables)

Bask in the mellifluous tones of D&D game designer Kate Welch, talking to the lads about what it's like to work at Wizards of the Coast. After one year on the job, Kate describes her start at Wizards, thoughts that go into design, user experience and bringing skills from the video game industry, standing up and shouting with joy in meetings about vampires and what's so good about the Monk class anyway? Plus! Much, much more...



You can hear some more D&D content with our Dungeon Master's Guide overview (part one).
We chatted to Mike Mearls a couple of weeks ago, well worth checking out.
You can see Kate on her Game Juice channel or Acquisitions Incorporated The Series.

Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Many thanks to new Patreons, Nick, Matthew, Philippe and Dan! Plus all the regular supporters and listeners too. Encourage the lads by becoming a Patreon supporter, which will lead to fully fleshed out scenarios, fanzines and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 93 - Mike Mason Interview
(a.k.a. "Ph'nglui mglw'nafh Cthulhu R'lyeh wgah'nagl fhtagn")

Why vote for the lesser evil? This week the lads chat to returning guests Mike Mason, Line Editor for Call of Cthulhu at Chaosium. Topics included how to start out playing Call of Cthulhu and the thinking behind the starter set, latest gossip on new products, Greg Stafford's legacy, revision of licensees, producing fan content via Miskatonic Repository and more!



Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly! You can also buy them a Ko-Fi.

Many thanks to new Patreons, Thomas and Duncan! Plus all the regular supporters and listeners too. Encourage the lads by becoming a Patreon supporter, which will lead to fully fleshed out scenarios, fanzines and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 92 - Mike Mearls Interview
(a.k.a. Hit Dice are the new Healing Surge)

Rare treat this week dear listeners, the lads interview Mr D&D himself right now, Mike Mearls. We cover current projects, what it was like taking over the helm, design choices and some nitty gritty details and listener questions, among many other things. Very insightful, and a charming guest, we look forward to inviting Mike back in the near future to answer more gems such as "What the hell is a hit point?" and "Why do you hate Warlords so much?".



You can hear some more D&D content with our Dungeon Master's Guide overview (part one).
Image culled from the D&D Beyond channel - worth checking out if you want more aids for D&D games.
Mike's Happy Fun Hour is definitely good for viewing if you have any interest at all in design of classes for the game and that sort of thing.

Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Many thanks to new Patreons, Nick, Matthew, Philippe and Dan! Plus all the regular supporters and listeners too. Encourage the lads by becoming a Patreon supporter, which will lead to fully fleshed out scenarios, fanzines and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Bonus Episode - Rolling Up A DMG Scenario
(a.k.a. Stop Moaning and Roll Your Dice)

Hot on the heels of our Dungeon Master's Guide overview (part one), the lads have done a bonus episode rolling on the tables in the DMG and coming up with some ideas for a scenario. If you've got a copy of the book handy, then play along as they come up with table entries and what they might mean.



Think about what you might do. Let the guys know how you get on. What would you do differently? Have you ever used this method before? Any hot tips to help new GMs?

Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to fully fleshed out scenarios, fanzines and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 91 - Dungeon Master's Guide - Part One
(a.k.a. Generic Cleric)

Arguably one of the most overlooked, under-read RPG books of recent years, the Dungeon Master's Guide has lots of interesting parts and deserves a more thorough look. Gaz and Baz take a wander through the first few chapters of this D&D staple and offer insights on the pages found therein! New DMs or old hands alike could gain something from delving into a staple of the RPG library.



Looks out for a bonus episode, with rolls on tables from the DMG and a live example of ideas for creating scenarios. Have you used the DMG in anger? Got thoughts on the book? Let The Smart Party know... Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 90 - Plans For 2019
(aka Your Motivation Is Down The Gym)

Stuck for what to do in the New Year? Does it all seem to much? Too many games, not enough time? It's exactly the same at Smart Party Towers. This week the lads look at what 2019 might hold, how to get the most out of gaming hours, which books to read, corralling gamers and choosing systems and settings. Let's get some games in and all be even better players in 2019!



Do The Smart Party a favour and head on over to the EN World site to vote for them (and anyone else you fancy, it's multiple choice) as a great podcast of 2018! It'd be an amazing festive present for everyone.

Want to chat about this or other topics with like-minded folk? The Smart Party are now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Bonus Episode - WFRP Actual Play

The lads are joined by Dirk the Dice and Blythy off of The Grognard Files and Mat Hart from Steamforged Games to play some of the new Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay from Cubicle 7. The brave adventurers failed Baron Von Horgen in a previous endeavour and now find themselves in Schmutziger, attempting to bring back the black sheep of the Von Horgen flock. Having had an encounter with the Stevedores' Guild, (you can hear more about that here), our plucky band start to form a plan - although best laid plans and all that...

Let the guys know if you like what you hear and they'll see what they can do about more special episodes!

Do The Smart Party a favours and head on over to the EN World site to vote for them (and anyone else you fancy, it's multiple choice) as a great podcast of 2018! It'd be an amazing festive present for everyone.

Want to chat about this or other topics with like-minded folk? The Smart Party are now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 89 - 2018 In Review
(aka A Lot of People Give a Monkeys About This)

It's that time of the year again - another one survived! Baz and Gaz and go through the games of the year, themes and what's hot right now in the industry. A sojourn through the upcoming games as well - discussion on why the new Savage Worlds might be more anticipated the Pathfinder 2 - and the proliferation of second editions, sequels and franchises.



It's not just the lads of course, thanks to all the glorious guests, amazing Patreons and both the listeners. Do The Smart Party a favours and head on over to the EN World site to vote for them (and anyone else you fancy, it's multiple choice) as a great podcast of 2018! It'd be an amazing festive present for everyone.

Want to chat about this or other topics with like-minded folk? The Smart Party are now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 88 - B. Dave Walters Interview
(aka Shine on You Crazy Diamond)

Live gaming actor, streamer, DM, comic author, life coach and all round great guy B. Dave Walters has more strings to his bow than a harpist. You may know him from LA By Night, The Uncommon Trust, D&D, or various Geek & Sundry or other outlets (Top Ten links below). Gaz and Guest Host and good friend of the show Iain McAllister of The Giant Brain and Brainwaves podcast chat to Dave about streaming games, running D&D in a castle, writing a comic, diversity in gaming and much more!



In the interview Iain chatted about a Keyforge review which you can find here. Dave's body of work is a veritable embarrassment of riches, here's a list of Top Ten Links to get you started:

You can find him on the Twitters
Ask Your Black Geek Friend
Check out the upcoming D&D comic
Celebrity Charid20 Gangrel Action
LA By Night on Alpha
Catch him on Geek and Sundry
Get yourself to D&D in a Castle
Support him on Patreon with many endeavors!
We're Alive: Frontier
B. Dave Walters on Streaming D&D

Want to chat about this or other topics with like-minded folk? The Smart Party are now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Bonus Episode - Dragonmeet Seminar

A special treat dear listeners! This week the lads were down in London Village to attend Dragonmeet - a one day convention. They teamed up with old pals The Good Friends of Jackson Elias to have a verbal wrestle on whether all RPGs were essentially just customised versions of Dungeons & Dragons.



Due to live recording in fluid environment, some sections of audio may not be to the usual high standard, but the content is solid fried gold as always. Let us know what you think of the debate, the outcome and indeed what you think - if there's one thing that is nearly as good as gaming, it's talking about gaming.

Want to chat about this or other topics with like-minded folk? The Smart Party are now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 180 – Shadow of the Weird Wizard with Rob Schwalb

Returning special guest Rob Schwalb, creator of Shadow of the Demonlord, Punk Apocalyptica, D&D designer and more, returns to the show to tell us all about his design process and work on his new Kickstarter, Shadow of the Weird Wizard.

The Kickstarter project page is here:

Shadow of the Weird Wizard.

If you dig actual plays, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel. Lots of great games played with vim and vigour in two hours or less.

Episode 87 - Rob Schwalb Interview
(aka All Hail the Demon Lord)

Rob Schwalb, our special guest this time is a veritable game-producing machine, prolific output for Shadow of the Demon Lord is added to by Occult Philosophy in Kickstarter. One of the designers of D&D, involved in everything from A Song of Ice and Fire to WFRP second edition - Rob has plenty to talk about and intriguing thoughts into game design and where inspiration comes from.



Many thanks to Rob for coming on again! We lost one interview and he graciously agreed to come back on and put up with more (the same?) questions and nonsense from the lads - but it was well worth it dear listeners, as the conversation is full of gaming gold.

You can find Rob on twitter, buy stuff on his website, or get in on the Occult Philosophy Kickstarter.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/432417423/shadow-of-the-demon-lord-occult-philosophy

Want to chat about this or other topics with like-minded folk? The Smart Party are now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 86 - Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan Interview

The prolific and talented Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan joins the lads for some gaming chat and excellent advice on writing scenarios. We cover the writing process, collaborating with others, creating specifically for convention games and why gaming books should be useful at the table, among other things. A lot of what Gar says makes perfect sense and our glorious listeners may wonder, as we did, why it's not just this obvious for everyone - but that's the mark of someone good at what they do - making it all seem to easy!



You can find Gar on twitter, get some great stuff on his blog, or read more at the Pelgrane site.

Gar's novel The Gutter Prayer is out January 2019, check out more on Good Reads:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39836383-the-gutter-prayer

Want to chat about this or other topics with like-minded folk? The Smart Party are now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 85 - Shane Ivey Interview

The guys chat to Arc Dream head honcho Shane Ivey about the Ennie-award-winning Delta Green, GODLIKE, British small press games, publishing in the modern world many other things. Not only a prolific producer of games, but well-read fan of RPGs too, Shane has plenty to say on what's happening on Arc Dream and tidbits on other games and insights into how to run a game company.



The Delta Green site has plenty of content, but there's great presence on Facebook, Twitter, Reddit etc.

Of course there's also the Arc Dream website and one for The Unspeakable Oath too - A Digest of Arcane Lore for Cthulhu Mythos Roleplaying Games.

Want to discuss further? The Smart Party are now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 84 - Spire & One Page RPGs
(with Grant Howitt and Christopher Taylor)

A cornucopia of voices on this edition, as Baz is unavailable, but Iain McAllister from Brainwaves podcast and The Giant Brain blog in on board to help interview Grant Howitt and Christopher Taylor of Rowan Rook & Decard best known for Spire RPG and one sheet RPGs such as Jason Statham's Big Vacation.



https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/gshowitt/strata-a-spire-rpg-sourcebookJoin the Strata Kickstarter

You can also catch the guests on the Hearty Dice Podcast, for your listening pleasure.

Want to discuss further? The Smart Party are now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 83 - Designing Scenarios

Scenarios are what it's all about! Thanks to glorious supporters on Patreon, The Smart Party have pumped out a couple of adventures - one whimsical from Baz and another more gritty from Gaz. This week the lads chat about the process of designing their own scenarios and some of the tips and tricks they've learned from their own writing and reading (and playing) other peoples'. Struggle to write your own stuff? Wonder what goes on behind the scenes? This podcast is for you!



Want to discuss further? We're now on MeWe (the popular destination for those leaving G+). Find the lads via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Encourage the guys to pump out more content by becoming a Patreon supporter, this leads to the aforementioned scenarios, fanzine and more!




https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 82 - First Time DM Experience

It's been many long years for Baz and Gaz, hazy memories of early games lost to the mists of time. What was it like to run that very first game? Well, that lads can't remember, that's for sure, so this time they're joined by delightful guest Nina (@humanbard) to talk about her first time behind the DM screen. Our guest has been playing for many years, and done podcasting and streaming, but that first time in charge of the game can be intimidating. But like all others, she's survived to tell her tale!



Want to discuss further? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Buy the guys some Hobnobs by becoming a Patreon supporter, extra content is going on up on the Patreon site including a fanzine, scenario from Baz - and another from Gaz fresh out of production!

Episode 81 - Judge Dredd and the Worlds of 2000AD (Interview with Russ Morrissey)

Attention thrill-seekers! Russ Morrissey, designer of the W.O.I.N system joins the lads to talk about his new take on Judge Dredd and the Worlds of 2000AD. A nostalgiac trip to the early days of gaming, inside scoops and future products, a view of the system, chat about how to make a successful Kickstarter and more await you!



With the full support of Rebellion Comics, the art and production are in place, an already written and proofed game, the Smart Posse are super excited about this trip to the golden age of British comics.



Russ also has a podcast with lots of RPG news, check out Morrus' Unoffical Tabletop RPG Talk or of course head over the EN World website for all the latest RPG news if you prefer to read about it.

Want to discuss further? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Buy the guys some Hobnobs by becoming a Patreon supporter, extra content is going on up on the Patreon site including a fanzine, scenario from Baz - and another from Gaz currently going through production!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 80 - Patrick Stuart Interview
(a.k.a Picard is my nemesis)

More Ennie Award Winning guestage this week, with Patrick Stuart joining the lads. Author of such gems as Maze of the Blue Medusa, Veins of the Earth and many more, Patrick provides insightful chat on his writing process, inspiration and all things gaming from Warhmmer to OSR.



Follow what Patrick is doing by checking his blog or get some lovely books on his author website.

You can find much more of Dirk's unique art by clicking the image below, or following him on Instagram:
https://plus.google.com/u/0/collection/AD1ndE

Want to discuss further? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Assist the boys grab more amazing guests by becoming a Patreon supporter, extra content is going on up on the Patreon site including a scenario from Baz - another from Gaz is on the way!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 79 - Troika! Daniel Sell Interview

Good friend of the show Ennie Award Winning Daniel Sell returns (last time was Episode 13!) to talk about his revamp of Troika! which definitely isn't Fighting Fantasy, winning Ennie awards and his delightfully hands-off publishing style. Fans of Hipster Planescape are in for a treat, as is anyone who likes something just a little bit different than the usual.



https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/846377662/troika-rpg-numinous-edition

Daniel publishes The Undercroft, a nostalgically pleasing hand-crafted fanzine, you can catch up on what he's up to on his website.

Want to discuss further? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Assist the boys grab more amazing guests by becoming a Patreon supporter, extra content is going on up on the Patreon site including a scenario from Baz!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 78 - Teachers & Teaching

This week the lads are joined by educators Pete Atkinson and Neil Gow to talk about how teaching influences gaming, or vice versa. Is the noble art of pedagogy something that helps or hinders young minds when it comes to playing games? With a teacher of primary, secondary and further education on board, the assembled classroom discusses what lesson we can all learn.



Gaz mentioned a Data Science in the Games Industry course that can be picked up on the freemium model - find more here.

Neil Gow is the master of Omnihedron Games and you can catch up on what he's up to on his website.

Want to discuss further? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Help the lads get new school uniforms by becoming a Patreon supporter, extra content is going on up on the Patreon site including a scenario from Baz!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 179 – Pendragon 6e with David Larkins

Returning special guest David Larkins, Line Editor for the King Arthur Pendragon RPG joins the lads to talk about the new edition, it’s starter set and get back to basics on what Pendragon is all about for new players and old hands alike!

If you dig actual plays then check out the new ⁠Unconventional GMs⁠ for games played in about two hours!

Episode 77 - Satine Phoenix Interview

Community Manager of Dungeons & Dragons, co-creator of Maze Arcana (with Ruty Rutenberg) and all around great ambassador of D&D and gaming in general Satine Phoenix joins the lads for some great chat on D&D, communities, sending people to sleep, D&D around the world, gaming in a castle and all sorts. Strap yourselves in for some delightful conversation and heartfelt chat about our great hobby!



You can find Satine by looking for @satinephoenix around the internet and get your Twitch on with The D&D Stream or Maze Arcana

https://www.twitch.tv/mazearcana

Want to discuss further? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Help the lads bribe more special guests by becoming a Patreon supporter, extra content is going on up on the Patreon site including a scenario from Baz!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Bonus Episode - UK Games Expo Chat

Not too long ago it was the highlight of the UK gaming calendar UK Games Expo and Gaz went round chatting to all kinds of lovely gaming folk to find out what's going on in the wonderful world of gaming. Here's some awesome #content from his travels.



[02:10] Paul Baldowski from All Rolled Up, Cthulhu Hack and other fame
All Rolled Up

[06:20] Sam, from award-winning Sins RPG
SINS RPG

[12:50] Julia from Lamentations of the Flame Princess talks about weird stuff
Lamentations of the Flame Princess

[23:00] Mary at Rowan, Rook and Decard (The Spire RPG) gives us the low down on the Indie League Stall
Rowan, Rook and Decard
UK Indie RPG League

[32:00] Chris Birch from Modiphius takes us on a whistlestop tour of lots of books!
Modiphius

[39:40] Lloyd Gayan was the man on the scene for Games on Demand
You can follow Lloyd's antics on Twitter

[48:30] Rich talks to us about the inaugural RPG Designer's meet up
Get hold of some of Rich's games

[55:00] Dirk and Blythy talk bobbins at the bar
the Grognard Files

Want to discuss further? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Help support the guys by becoming a Patreon supporter, extra content is going on up on the Patreon site including a scenario from Baz!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 76 - Jonathan Tweet Interview

Legendary game designer and writer, Jonathan Tweet joins the lads this week, with news of his reboot of Over the Edge which you can still grab on Kickstarter if you're quick, great insights on D&D, Everyway, Ars Magica and much more. We get in a bunch of questions from our dear listeners and generous supporters and a couple of our own war stories too!



Want to discuss further? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Help support the guys by becoming a Patreon supporter, extra content is going on up on the Patreon site including a scenario from Baz!


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 75 - Ennies Nominee Review

The gremlins got into the sound engine again this week and it's all gone a bit tinny. Never mind, the content is still golden! Maybe electrum. The lads discuss the Ennie Awards happening at Gen Con weekend. What's with the nominees, the process, the missing games? All is far grist for the mill - get the expert opinion on this year's entries while the GenCon masses cast their vote.



Think of anything that should have got an Ennie? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

For the love of Cthulhu get the boys some better microphones by becoming a Patreon supporter, extra content is going on up on the Patreon site and there's a scenario coming in August.


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 74 - DIY Gaming
(a.k.a. It's Only Got to be Good Enough)

Back by popular demand! The Smart Party presents DIY gaming – what do they mean by this? A bit of reminiscing about how it used to be “back in the day”, a dash of OSR and writing your own stuff, and advice to stop creating and start playing!



Already building your own stuff? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Enable the purchasing of virtual nuts and bolts by becoming a Patreon supporter, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1. Already a Patreon and want to appear in a scenario? Drop the guys a line via the above methods and they'll make something happen.


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Bonus Episode - Runequest Actual Play

As a special feature, here's some actual play of the Free RPG Day adventure which is still available at the Chaosium site. The lads along with Mat Hart (currently warming up to release Dungeons & Doggies read more on Facebook here) faced the perils of Glorantha, as realised by Dirk the Dice from The Grognard Files.



Something different to keep you going while we get more content for you dear listeners, many thanks to Dirk for helping out and doing an edit as well as ably running a fun session!

Got games stuff to talk about? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Help keep the show running by becoming a Patreon supporter, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1. Already a Patreon and want to appear in a scenario? Drop the guys a line via the above methods and they'll make something happen.


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 73 - UK Games Expo Preview
(a.k.a. Bring Back The Beer Bus)

Spring has sprung, and that can mean only one thing, it's nearly time for UK Games Expo! The lads are stalwarts of the show, and joined by fellow podcaster, reviewer and Expo veteran Iain McAllister of the Giant Brain to talk about what's hot, top tips and generally enthuse about the event. You can read more detail of his Top Ten Hit List here.



Obviously listening to our excellent chat about Expo gives you all you need to know, but if you want more information, then head over to the beginner's guide on their website for all the details you could ever want!

Going to Games Expo? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Enable the purchasing of something delicious from the Expo street stalls to sustain our intrepid reporters by becoming a Patreon supporter, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1. Already a Patreon and want to appear in a scenario? Drop the guys a line via the above methods and they'll make something happen.


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 72 - Downtime Abbey
(a.k.a. You're Not My Supervisor)

What to do with those pesky players when they're not delving in dungeons? How to convince the GM you need time to fanny around and go shopping for booster potions with real characters? Two sides of the same copper piece my friends, this week the lads talk about downtime or what goes on in games when you're not doing the core activity (be that punching orcs in the face or using Traveller to model Elite). What do you do with your time outside of the usual stuff? Robin Laws once had a gaming group that would bang the table and shout "Next fight! Next fight!", but the Smart Party like to think there's more constructive actions that could be filling the gaming space.



Run your first game? Need advice? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Enable the purchasing of more outrageous hats by becoming a Patreon supporter, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1. Already a Patreon and want to appear in a scenario? Drop the guys a line via the above methods and they'll make something happen.


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 71 - New GM Advice
(a.k.a. Your Job Is To Lose Every Fight)

How do you go about running your first game? Do you want to be a DM, GM, LM, Referee or Keeper? Perhaps you've played for years but never run a game, maybe you've never gamed at all, is could be you tried running games and didn't really get on with it. Fear not! The Smart Party are here to help. The lads go through how to go about running your first RPG with everything from whether you should buy and adventure, to giving yourself enough credit and the minutiae of wee breaks. They're super keen to know how you get on should you try a game - so let them know - and please do share with any friends you think might benefit from some sage advice.



Run your first game? Need advice? Give the lads your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Enable the purchasing of more outrageous hats by becoming a Patreon supporter, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1. Already a Patreon and want to appear in a scenario? Drop the guys a line via the above methods and they'll make something happen.


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 70 - Dungeons and Dragons
(a.k.a. There's this new game called D&D)

There's a new hwatness on the streets that you may not have heard of. It's called Dungeons & Dragons and has loads of editions apparently. Who knew? Baz and Gaz have managed a couple of sessions (after finally making a save versus paralysis), and what's more have been on the same side of the DM screen for once. Baz patiently talks a sceptical Gaz through the joys of the Player's Handbook and they finish off with a score out of five scimitars for the game. Join them on a magical journey, and discover the legality of Owlbears, how to fall down a mountain and how to turn a Halfling into Robin Hood.



Should the guys talk about the Dungeon Master's Guide? Monster Manuals? More? Give them your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Deliver copper-painted platinum pieces to the Patreon fund, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1. Already a Patreon and want to appear in a scenario? Drop the guys a line via the above methods and they'll make something happen.


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 178 – Starforged With Shawn Tomkin

Returning special guest Shawn Tomkin, designer of Ironsworn and of particular interest this time, Starforged. It’s an excellent Sci Fi RPG and well worth digging into, which is exactly what the lads do this time!

If you dig actual plays then check out the new ⁠Unconventional GMs⁠ for games played in about two hours!

Episode 69 - Urban Fantasy with Paul Mitchener
(a.k.a. Liminal Advertising)

Special Guest time once more and the prolific Dr Mitch is on again. The lads talk about his new Urban Fantasy game, and indeed – what is Urban Fantasy? Does American Gods count? What about Young Adult novels? Liminal is out on Kickstarter with a bunch of stretch goals, all introducing different writers, Jason Behnke’s art and other frippery - giving the guys plenty to talk about. Mitch even sings at one point… but don't let that put you off!



You can find out more on the Liminal Kickstarter here and should definitely check out the 7 Hills RPG convention. Jason Behnke is a fabulous artist - you should go to his site and give him money to do stuff.

If you wanted to get your hands on Monkey, go check out D101 Games, and to understand what the Monkey TV series is… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88y4ttqaW6U.

Check out the Facebook page. Find The Smart Party on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Deliver gold pieces to the Patreon fund, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1 has landed on doorsteps all over the place, from Bermuda to Beverly Hills (seriously!). At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing an adventure for supporters too - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Episode 68 - Roleplaying Games of the 90s
(a.k.a. Gaming Like It's 1999)

Let's party like it's 1999! Why not the whole decade? The lads take a trip down memory lane to go over the 90s (which only last decade right?) and talk through some of the key products, what's still hot and what's not - and maybe which games deserve another day (or never really got the day they deserved) in the sunshine.



The episode is dedicated to Mik Reed, who was a familiar avuncular face on the UK con circuit. Sadly, after a long battle with a mystery illness, he has left us. As generous and supporting in games as he was in real life, he never spoke ill of anyone and was a great contributor to the online as well as offline community. He'll be missed.

Check out their Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Deliver gold pieces to the Patreon fund, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1 has landed on doorsteps all over the place, from Bermuda to Beverly Hills (seriously!). At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing an adventure for supporters too - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.



https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

You can find out more on Spaghetti Conjunction here and should definitely get yourself some Grognard Files action.

Episode 67 - Greg Stolze Interview

Gaming Legend Greg Stolze joins the lads for a great chat about his many games and what he's up to in 2018. Unknown Armies, Over The Edge, Godlike, Feng Shui, REIGN, Temintation Shock, short stories and novels - Greg has an impressive portfolio and plenty to talk about, so dive in and enjoy!



You can hear about about Temination Shock on Greg's Soundcloud and read much more on REIGN and his myraid other writing projects on the Stolze site.

Deliver gold pieces to the Patreon fund, and we can keep producing great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1 has landed on doorsteps all over the place, from Bermuda to Beverly Hills (seriously!). At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing an adventure for supporters too - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.


https://www.Ko-fi.com/thesmartparty

Check out their Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Episode 66 - A New Campaign 2018

It's the start of a glorious new year and the lads discuss what they've got for Christmas, how to start a new campaign, what new and exciting games they may be setting up for 2018 and other goodness. Do you remember Transhuman Space? That and more could be in the offing this year...

Give sacrifice to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you. At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing a fanzine - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.

https://www.patreon.com/thesmartparty

Check out their Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Episode 65 - Rafael Chandler Interview

Author of one of the finest novels of modern times (Baz knows his stuff on this), video game designer and RPG creator Rafael Chandler joins the boys for a discussion about his works and many other fun things!


Find out about Splatterpunk horror games, the enigmatic El Degollador (The Decapitator) from Peruvian history, how the creation process works for games and novels, why spiders are your friends, and much more!

If you want to tell Rafael about your favourite Masters of the Universe figure, you can find him on G+, and you can buy many of his great books from Amazon too.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mask-Beneath-Face-Rafael-Chandler-ebook/dp/B076GT2XXC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1513882255&sr=8-1&keywords=mask+beneath+her+face

Give sacrifice to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you. At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing a fanzine - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.

https://www.patreon.com/thesmartparty

Check out their Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Episode 64 - End of Year Review 2017

It's been a funny old year. Or has it? Baz and Gaz go over what's been happening, talk about their favourites, and upcoming things that tickle their collective fancy.


Throw a copper piece into the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you. If we get enough funding we'll dish out some fanzine action too - so tell your friends.

https://www.patreon.com/thesmartparty

Check out our spangly new Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Episode 63 - Dragonmeet Review & Interviews

After a great time as part of the #Podcastzone at Dragonmeet, the guys got together for a review of the event and also mixed in some of the interviews and brief chats they got while gadding about. Hear from OSR guys such as Luke Gearing [19:20], the Lamentations of James Raggi [28:55], the silvered tones of Patrick Stuart [34:05]; plus, what's new in Chaosium Line Editor Mike Mason's stable [39:50] and more Cthlhu style shenanigans from Paul Baldowski.



James Raggi has plenty of great stuff on his site, including Patrick's work such as Veins of the Earth.
Get your hand on Fever Swamp here.
Down Darker Trails, is available from the Chaosium site, of course.
Get yourself some lovely All Rolled Up goodies from Paul and Fil too!

Throw a copper piece into the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you. If we get enough funding we'll dish out some fanzine action too - so tell your friends.

https://www.patreon.com/thesmartparty

Check out our spangly new Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Bonus Episode - Black Hack at Dragonmeet

The lands went on a jolly to Dragonmeet and have a full episode in the pipe - but along the way they spent some time in the bar chatting to David Black of The Black Hack fame, gate crashed by Chris Mc Dougal Donald Duncan Dowall from Into the Odd.



Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you.

https://www.patreon.com/thesmartparty

Check out our spangly new Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Episode 62 - Preparing For Dragonmeet

If you're going to try a one day gaming convention in the Big Smoke, then Dragonmeet is the place to be. What to expect though? Baz and Gaz lead you through everything that's going down, provide stories of previous adventures, and fill you in on some tips and tricks, along with highlights not to be missed. Most of all, they look forward to meeting both their listeners there!



Dragonmeet is one of the most vibrant tabletop gaming conventions and the largest of it's kind in London. You'll discover a day jam-packed with things for you to do. Expect new and old games to play, industry panels, book signings, an art show, bring & buy, cosplay events, lots of new traders and big demos, tournaments and of course the chance to make new friends and hang out with fellow gamers.

Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you.



Check out our spangly new Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Ken Rolston, known for his work on Elder Scrolls (Morrowind and Oblivion), Paranoia and many other gaming successes, joins us for a chat about all things game related. From his long and storied history in the hobby, producing an RPG, the state of the video gaming industry, RPG tips and stories, to many amusing anecdotes, Ken was a delight to chat to.



In his own words: subversive, perverse, deconstructionist, sophisticated, mellifluous, jaded and more; Ken is a huge personality in the gaming world and has a lot of really great stuff to share. As with previous Kraken entries, we recorded live where we could and as a result incidental sounds intrude - but the content more than makes up for any of those niggles!

Help us get more content! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting interviews with lovely people. Also, Gaz splashed out on a new recording device and is having to live off beans on toast. He'll waste away.

https://www.patreon.com/thesmartparty

Check out our spangly new Facebook page, if that's your poison.

Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

Episode 177 – Wilderness Travel

Fancy a trip to the Isle of Dread!? This episode the lads take a look at traveling in the wilderness, how to make it interesting and what tips and trips can improve the journey.

If you dig actual plays then check out the new ⁠Unconventional GMs⁠ for games played in about two hours!

You're in a German Schloss, it's 4am, and you've been drinking and eating fit to burst. What could top this off? Chatting to President of Chaosium, Rick Meints about Runequest, running Chaosium, the fan community and ducks.



Slurred words are obviously a result of being sleepy, and sound of enjoyment in the background is... well, people enjoying themselves. We recorded live and there is a bit of background noise, but the content, as always, is awesome.

Help us get more content! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting interviews with lovely people. Maybe a better mic for recording on the go! Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content.



Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

Episode 61 - The Grognard Files

Baz and Gaz are joined by Chris (a.k.a Dirk the Dice) from The Grognard Files, to talk about old, comforting RPG gaming. Something eldritch occurred with Gaz's voice and he sounds like a dusty robot, but never mind that, our guest has a syrupy voice, sweet and soothing as if from the Sabden Treacle Mines.


The guys talk Grognard Files, old school stuff like Runequest, Games Workshop, 24 hour gaming advice and more! If you haven't checked out the Grognard Podcast, then you should remedy this immediately!

Help us get more content! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting interviews with lovely people. Maybe a better mic for recording on the go! Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content.



Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

Special Guest and Great Old One, Sandy Petersen (creator of Call of Cthulhu and mind behind Petersen Games talks to us about his upcoming board games, getting into Call of Cthulhu and his foray into video games.



A fantastic German gaming retreat happens once a year in the old East Germany and this is one of several on-site interviews. As a result sound quality isn't 100%, but the content is!

You can find the latest Kickstarter from Petersen Games here, created by Sandy's son and fellow designer Lincoln, you get to play your part in summoning the end of the world - with whatever dubious rewards that may bring!

Help us get more content! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting interviews with lovely people. Maybe a better mic for recording on the go! Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content.

https://www.patreon.com/thesmartparty

Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!