What Would The Smart Party Do?: Recent Episodes
The Smart Party
How much should players contribute to the ttrpg experience? How much are they allowed too? The lads discuss getting more out of your gaming sessions.
Live From the Spring Kraken 2024 in Germany, Gaz joined forces with game designer Robin D Laws and fellow Unconventional GM Guy Milner to give a seminar on running adventures games for ttrpgs.
If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel.
How do you put more character in your #ttrpg character? You don't have to go full method actor, here are some simple and actionable ideas to get you started.
If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel.
Episode 186 – What Games Workshop Can Teach Us
There's a lot of crossover between geeky hobbies, and with the lads both working for the big Games Workshop back in the day, what can skirmish games teach us about RPGs?
If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel.
Episode 185 – Cities (aka Fantasy Tripadvisor)
After wandering the wilderness and diving down dungeons, plucky adventurers wish to go to an enthralling city. Maybe your entire campaign is based around one location. The lads explore various cities from ttrgps and the merits and flaws thereof!
If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel.
Episode 184 – Hot War, Cold City (with Jon Hodgson and Malcolm Craig)
Joining the ‘cast this time, Jon Hodgson of Handiwork Games and RPG author and academic Malcolm Craig. The Cold War period and monster hunting in Berlin come to the fore as the lads dive into Hot War and Cold City among other great games from the Handiwork studio!
You can find out more about Malcolm Craig here. And here are some links for Handiwork Games:
Hot War & Cold City
FiveEvil
Maskwitches
Beowulf
If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel.
Episode 183 – Unacceptable! (a.k.a. It’s Not You It’s Us)
There are a plethora of gaming events to go to these days and you meet all kinds of people and playstyles. Often this is a cause for celebration, a way to pick up new ideas and techniques. Sometimes though, it’s suboptimal. There are still some people who haven’t got the memo about gaming with others, and this time the lads aim to set things straight.
Episode 182 – How To GM with Justin Alexander
The lads are delighted to have returning Good Friend of the Show, RPG producer and designer at Atlas Games, Justin Alexander. He’s got a new book coming out, available in all good purveyors of such things, So You Want To Be A Game Master. Join for great insights, some not seen or heard before on the Alexandrian (or maybe anywhere!) and to get a unique precis of what is in this fine work. Visit Justin’s excellent RPG resource The Alexandrian, as check out what’s hot at Atlas Games.
If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel.
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 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 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 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 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!
Episode 176 – Dungeons Not Dragons
Whether you’re from the old school days of white-lined maps on blue backgrounds, or newly arrived at the idea of maps, scouring the internet for your Roll20 backgrounds, dungeons have a long and storied history in RPGs. Join the lads as they look back over the years at dungeons, what makes them good and how they can be used better.
If you dig actual plays then check out the new Unconventional GMs for games played in about two hours
If you’re a fan of the show, you’ll know we love AGON, powered by the Paragon system. This time the lads are delighted to be joined by Sean Nittner, the co-author and independent game designer Tim Denee, who’s done some great stuff with the game. Come on in for a deep dive on the game design process, what makes these sets of games great and how to squeeze more gaming juice from your sessions!
Evil Hat have a ton of great games you can peruse for your delectation on their website.
You can see more of Tim’s great work on his website, Old Dog Games
If you’re in the US, or plan on travelling there for a convention, find out about Big Bad Con here.
If you dig actual plays then check out the new Unconventional GMs for games played in about two hours!
Episode 174 – Beyond Dread Portals (a.k.a. Climinal)
This time the boys are joined by Good Friend of the Show and returning guest Dr Mitch and Newt from D101 Games to talk about their new project Beyond Dread Portals. A game for those wanting to move slightly away from what D&D has to offer, but with some familiarity so the leap of faith isn’t too scary!
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.
You can jump on in for the Kickstarter project here, or just pick up the free quickstart to see if it's your sort of thing! 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.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
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 and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
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 and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
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 and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 176 – Dungeons Not Dragons
Whether you’re from the old school days of white-lined maps on blue backgrounds, or newly arrived at the idea of maps, scouring the internet for your Roll20 backgrounds, dungeons have a long and storied history in RPGs. Join the lads as they look back over the years at dungeons, what makes them good and how they can be used better.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!
Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party
Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty
Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you’re less keen, give us a shout, we’d are open to development opportunities! 🙂
Episode 175 – Paragon System with Sean Nittner and Tim Denee
If you’re a fan of the show, you’ll know we love AGON, powered by the Paragon system. This time the lads are delighted to be joined by Sean Nittner, the co-author and independent game designer Tim Denee, who’s done some great stuff with the game. Come on in for a deep dive on the game design process, what makes these sets of games great and how to squeeze more gaming juice from your sessions!
Evil Hat have a ton of great games you can peruse for your delectation on their website.
You can see more of Tim’s great work on his website, Old Dog Games
If you’re in the US, or plan on travelling there for a convention, find out about Big Bad Con here.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!
Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party
Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty
Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you’re less keen, give us a shout, we’d are open to development opportunities! 🙂
Episode 174 – Beyond Dread Portals (a.k.a. Climinal)
This time the boys are joined by Good Friend of the Show and returning guest Dr Mitch and Newt from D101 Games to talk about their new project Beyond Dread Portals. A game for those wanting to move slightly away from what D&D has to offer, but with some familiarity so the leap of faith isn’t too scary!
The Beyond Dread Portals Kickstarter page
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/645319106/beyond-dread-portals
D101 Games website
https://d101games.com
More about OpenQuest
https://openquestrpg.com
Crypts and Things
https://d101games.com/product/crypts-and-things-remastered/
Reboot the Future
https://d101games.com/product/crypts-and-things-remastered/
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!
Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party
Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty
Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you’re less keen, give us a shout, we’d are open to development opportunities! 🙂
Episode 173 – Third Floor Wars (a.k.a. Third Party Podcaster)
A third podcaster, Craig Shipman from Third Floor Wars joins the lads this time to talk about some of our collective GM experiences at running three different games. From Blades in the Dark to Savage Worlds by way of Call of Cthulhu, this mighty triumvirate of gaming tells you what’s hot and what’s not, with tips, tricks and experiences of running these popular RPGs.
To listen to John Harper’s series on running Blades and more, head on over to his Youtube channel.
The the glorious media empire of Third Floor Wars and more of Craig’s great content visit the website here.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!
Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party
Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty
Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you’re less keen, give us a shout, we’d are open to development opportunities! 🙂
Episode 172 – OGL OMG (a.k.a. Version Wars)
There has been no end of social media frenzy about Hasbro / Wizards of the Coast and their attempt to introduce a new Open Gaming Licence. What is? Why are they doing? What’s everyone upset about? Does it impact your game at the kitchen table? Find out, all this and more, with special guest Mat from Steamforged Games.
If you are interested in the legal aspects of all this check out Legal Eagle.
The latest on the open D&D playtest and OGL 1.2 is on the WotC website.
For Games Workshop reminiscing, Baz talked about Goonhammer.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!
Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party
Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty
Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you’re less keen, give us a shout, we’d are open to development opportunities! 🙂
Episode 171 – 2022 Retrospective (a.k.a. A Polite Golf Clap)
A look back on the past year, what’s been good for gaming, what can we look forward to and more. A genial fireside chat with your amiable hosts.
If you are interested in solo play for Ironsworn as mentioned check out this channel.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!
Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party
Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty
Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you’re less keen, give us a shout, we’d are open to development opportunities! 🙂
Episode 170 - Star Wars (a.k.a. Live Long And Prosper)
A chance to reminisce among other things, the lads chatter about bringing Star Wars into your gaming life and what's good about that.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 169 - Mechanics Drive Play (a.k.a. Long Chambery Things)
Following on from emergent play in the last episode, the lads go through a cornucopia of games and systems to talk about mechanics which drive different styles of play.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 168 - Emergent Play (a.k.a. Play To Find Out)
From thick books of lore to many-paged character backgrounds, how do you get cool stuff to the table? Do you even bother with all that and play to find out instead? The lads chat about how to get more juiciness from your gaming sessions.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 167 - One D&D (a.k.a. There Can Be Only One)
The guys are keen for a deep dive into the latest D&Dizzle news, fresh playtest documents, talk of a new approach, a lengthy train in the run up to the most recent evolution of the world's largest RPG, "One D&D".
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 166 - Radiant Citadel with Ajit George (a.k.a. A New Hope)
The guys are joined by lovely human and creator and project lead of Journeys Through the Radiant Citadel, Ajit George. Discover how the project came about, what to expect from the latest D&D offering, how it's different from what's gone before and much more!
You can find Ajit on Twitter, or check out his website for more of his great work.
Want more lore? As mentioned in the episode, Journeys Through Radiant Citadel is a DMsGuild project which provides expanded content from many of the writers.
To hear more about his non-profit work, check out Daughters of Destiny on Netflix - you can see a trailer on YouTube
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 165 - D&D in the 70s (a.k.a. A Gateway To Wider Experiences)
This time Gaz & Baz are reunited to talk about playing D&D back in the day. Joined by D&D designer and Good Friend of the Show, Jonathan Tweet, plus legendary DM Hollis Monroe, the guys talk through early experiences before Greyhawk existed and you had to make your own worlds of wondrous adventure.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 164 - Escape Rooms with Rafael Chandler
Another Stunt Baz in the shape of Mat from Steamforged Games, a returning special guest in the splendid form of Good Friend of the Show, Rafael Chandler; what more could you ask for? Rafael has a successful Escape Room business and is (at time of recording) launching a Kickstarter for a 100+ puzzle escape room in a box which becomes a roleplaying game. The guys chat about puzzles in your games, how to come up with them, what makes them interesting and much more in this episode.
You can jump on in on the Gateways & Griffons Kickstarter here, and find out much more on Rafael's excellent works via his website.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 163 - New Gaming Tech (a.k.a. Is Verisimilitude a Word?)
There's a foreword this time from Baz to let you know what's going on in his life, thoughts are with him right now. The episode was recorded before his recent sad news, and after the into message regular Stunt Baz and author of the Burn After Running blog joins Gaz to talk about new gaming tech. What developments have their been in RPG techniques and how can they be leveraged for use in any game, including more traditional ones? Level up your RPG sessions with these top tips.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 162 - Zombies with Dirk the Dice (a.k.a. Goldeneye Caused It)
The Unknown Stunt Baz, Dirk the Dice off of The Grognard Files podcast joins Gaz this time to talk about zombies in popular media and in particular, games. From their origins to the hugely popular K-Zombie films and TV, how do we get more shambly bois in our games? You can chat to Dirk on the Twitters here.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 161 - Justin Alexander Interview (a.k.a. Was Dragonlance Railroady?)
Armed with "Stunt Baz" Guy Milner off of the Burn After Running blog, this time Gaz interviews RPG producer and designer at Atlas Games, Justin Alexander. The chat covers the excellent RPG resource The Alexandrian, as well as what's hot at Atlas Games and some great game design discussion.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 160 - Blade Runner (a.k.a. Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?)
One of the most universally recognised IPs in geekdom, Blade Runner is a staple of the lad's early film experiences. Now Free League are bringing the films (and other media) to life with a new RPG set in futuristic LA. Designer Tomas Härenstam guests to explain more about this highly anticipated game!
If you want to hop on board with the exciting Blade Runner Kickstarter click the link!
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 159 - Superheroes (a.k.a. Not All Heroes Wear Capes)
With great podcasting, comes great responsibility to listen. Or something. This time the lads go through some Supers RPGs. What are they about? Do they match the genre? Are they any good? All this and more awaits.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 158 - Dark Souls (a.k.a. You Wake Up By A Bonfire)
So it is, ash seeketh embers… this time the lads are joined by Mat Hart and Rich August from Steamforged Games to talk about the Dark Souls RPG, and go deep diving into game design theory.
You can find out more on Dark Souls and other Steamforged goodies at the Steamforged website.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 156 - Campaigns a.k.a. One Scenario After Another
What makes a good campaign? This time the lads explore what's out there in published campaign land and seek to determine what sort of campaigns there are, what makes them good and throw out some top tips and recommendations.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 156 - Runequest a.k.a. Your Glorantha May Vary
The starter set is out for the latest edition of an old classic, Runequest. As Baz plunders this resource and gives his thoughts, Gaz expands in this knowledge with a tour through previous editions and the lads try to answer the core question of any game - what's cool about it?
If you want to hear more about Runequest, Baz's side project going through the starter set is here: Runequest Year Zero
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 155 - Review of 2021 a.k.a. Recording at the fag-end
New year, new you and new podcast. The lads go over the year that was, 2021, with all its trials, tribulations and great gaming moments.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 154 - Subsystems a.k.a. Cut Down Like Ep1 of Squid Game
The lads chat through chases, Dramatic Tasks, the funnel, spell duels, grappling and all other manner of subsystems and extra bits. Core mechanics are all very well and good, but how do you do mass battle? Find out in this episode!
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we are open to development opportunities! :)
Bonus Episode - Writing RPG Scenarios for Publication
The lads went down to London Village for Dragonmeet and presented in their usual seminar slot. This time they were joined by special guests Paul Fricker (Call of Cthulhu, Rivers of London) and Mat Hart (Steamforged Games) to talk in a wide-ranging presentation on writing your own content for RPGs and getting it out there. Topics included what to write, how to get started, writing for companies or yourself, Kickstarter and more. Enjoy!
You can grab yourself some Epic Encounters and other goodness on the Steamforged Website! Get yourselves a top Call of Cthulhu scenario at Drivethru. You can also get The Bone Alchemist referenced in the seminar and King of Dungeons in the same place too!
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 153 - Shane Hensley Interview a.k.a Shaken Not Stirred
The lads were delighted to have one of their gaming heroes on this time, founder of Pinnacle Entertainment Group, Shane Hensley. He's created the best-selling, award-winning Deadlands, Hell on Earth, Weird Wars, and later Savage Worlds and many of its settings. He's also written for God's Own Game Earthdawn, TORG, and many other things, plus worked on computer games such as City of Villains. Chat covers everything from his classic games to getting assaulted by an orc!
You can grab yourself some Savage Worlds goodness on the Pinnacle Website! Get yourselves answers and chat about Savage Worlds and other games on the Pinnacle Forums.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 152 - Jason Cordova Interview a.k.a Shouting Into The Void
Jason Cordova joins the lads to chat about his own podcasting experience on Fear of a Black Dragon, hot indie rpgs like The Between and Brindlewood Bay, game design, streaming and much more!
Follow Jason on Twitter. You can find out more about the Gauntlet and cool techniques and games on his website. Get your earballs around the excellent Fear of a Black Dragon here! Get yourselves a copy of The Between on Drivethru
You can get Brindelwood Bay actual plays and more on his YouTube.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 151 - Into The Odd Remastered a.k.a You Were The First
Good friend of the show Chris McDowall has remastered his well-renowned and critically-acclaimed Into the Odd in a new edition, teaming up with more good friends of the show, Free League! The lads go through design choices, graphics, how to write a game and much more in this busy episode!
You can find out more about all Chris' stuff at his website. Jump on the Kickstarter here!
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 150 - Meguey & Vincent Baker Interview a.k.a The Secret Is, They're Just Subsystems
For the 150th episode, the boys needed something special, and what better way to celebrate than chatting to two of the industry's best and nicest game designers, Vincent and Meg Baker. Between them, authors of Apocalypse World, Dogs in the Vineyard, Psi*Run, Murderous Ghosts and more! A proper after-hours con type discussion occurs getting into the weeds of game design and how to be a better roleplayer.
You can find out more about the Baker's games at Lumpley Games. Of particular note is their new game Under Hollow Hills, which you can get the playbooks and basic moves for on their site. Get lots of detail on Apocalypse World here!
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 149 - Advancement a.k.a The Other Sin is 1XP
Thanks to a Listener's Letter, this episode is all about advancement. Of course a lot of the chat is about XP and mechanically improving your character, but the lads also think about what else advancing a character could mean.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 148 - Nostalgia a.k.a The More You Look At It, The More It Looks Back At You
Remember those Hovis adverts from back in the day? No? How about Cyborg Commando? The lads ponder on lost youth and the eternal question of not only can you go back, but should you? Numerous old games get a mention and the guys go through reboots and reskins and lots of other topics in a wide-ranging chat.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 147 - Investigation RPGs a.k.a The Problem That Doesn't Exist
Have you passed your Spot Hidden check? Then you will note that Baz is on holidays, so Gaz is joined by the effable Stunt Baz, Guy Milner off of the Burn After Running blog to talk about investigative RPGs. What are the common pitfalls? What makes a good investigation? Which are the key games out there on the market? All this and more awaits keen-eyed investigators in this episode!
Visit the Burn After Running blog for a plethora of articles and resources on GMing.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Mike Shea Interview a.k.a Return of the Lazy Dungeon Master
It's the Return of the Lazy Dungeon Master, or first time on the show for Mike Shea, also know as Sly Flourish on the Twitters. Mike's books about how to get the most out of the game prep and spend less time doing it have been an inspiration to many hard-pressed GMs, and the lads take a dive into his secrets and tease out details on how you can be smarter about your downtime activities while making your games at the table more awesome.
Visit the Sly Flourish website for a plethora of articles and resources on GMing.
Subscribe to the Sly Flourish newsletter for weekly D&D articles and the free Dungeon Adventure Generator PDF.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 144 - Games You Should Have Too
In a continuation of last episode, the lads go through a veritable cornucopia of games that you should consider looking at, to round out your roleplaying chops. If you're looking for inspiration or fancy broadening your horizons, get your earballs round this episode covering settings, GM advice, adventure support, art & layout and much more!
Johan Egerkrans is the Vaesen artist who went shamefully unnamed due to a memory lapse during recording! Be sure to check out his work.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 144 - Games You Should Have
The lads have been listening to other podcasts and hearing their thoughts on systems, creating a Frankenstein's monster of a game etc. and reminded of all the sections they have done on particular parts of games. It seemed about time to draw some of this together and go through a variety of games people should have in their collections for a more well rounded view of the gaming world. So, get ready to draw up a shopping list as The Smart Party rattle through a bunch of mechanics and games you might want to purchase to make your gaming life better.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 143 - Shawn Tomkin Interview
The lads get yet another special guest, Shawn Tomkin, creator of Ironsworn, who is currently in the process of bringing out his new Sci Fi game, Starforged. As usual, the boys get the inside scoop on design decisions and drill more into the solo play aspect, the dark art that is the Oracles and much more!
Get more on Starforged at the Kickstarter page.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 142 - Mattias Lilja Interview
The lads get another special guest this time, Mattias Lilja, co-creator and game writer for Ruins of Symbaroum 5E from Free League. They talk about the difference between the original game and 5e version, and what effect that has on design. Also, a discussion on probabilities in gaming and does everyone understand the statistics behind them?
Find out more on Ruins of Symbaroum for 5E at the Kickstarter page.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 141 - Dennis Detwiller Returns (aka McReady From The Thing Drinking Scotch)
The lads are delighted to invite back Arc Dream's Dennis Detwiller to talk about his latest project, Impossible Landscapes, helping out new RPG creators after reviewing 200+ products and hot new gossip about what's happening with Smart Party favourite GODLIKE, superhero roleplaying in World War II.
Find out more on Delta Green at Arc Dream
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 140 - Influential Games (aka Chained Lightning)
There are many games that influence the way we play. Some have become almost lifelong companions; some deliver a great idea to be stolen and used elsewhere. Baz and Gaz got through some of the influential games that shaped their gaming and talk about others that perhaps defined parts of the roleplaying zeitgeist. Settle in for a classic episode discussing a good old fashioned RPG muse. Maybe pour yourself an Old Fashioned to go with it?
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 139 - 90s Magazines(aka Fool's Gold)
Good friend of the show Dirk the Dice off of The Grognard Files is a guest this week, to talk to the lads about gaming in the 90s; a period when he was in the "deep freeze" and away from roleplaying games. RPG magazines from that storied decade are all he has to go on as evidence of gaming back then, and so Dirk presents our hosts with assumptions to be debunked, or otherwise.
If you want to know more about the Grognard Files you can find out on the website here.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 138 - Jonathan Tweet - Everway Interview(aka Right Turn Clyde)
Good friend of the show and veteran game designer Jonathan Tweet returns to talk to the lads about the 25th Anniversary Edition of Everyway, his diceless mythic roleplaying game. There's also chat on Over the Edge, Ars Magica, Glorantha and where Magic the Gathering came from!
If you want to know more about the Kickstarter you can find this here, the game looks gorgeous now and is well worth a look.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 137 - Francesco Nepitello Interview(aka You're My Sam Gamgee)
This time, internationally recognised game designer Francesco Nepitello joins the lads to talk about the upcoming second edition of The One Ring. He is an author of roleplaying games and thematic board games, like Lex Arcana, Zombicide: Chronicles and Age of Conan, reaching international recognition with War of the Ring - and uses this experience to inform a new TOR edition.
If you want to know more about the Kickstarter you can find this here, it's fun just watching the money rack up and stretch goals being smashed!
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 136 - Baz is Back(aka What Are You Playing?)
After his forced absence, enjoying listening to the show for a short while, our Baz is back in the office and talking games.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartpartyTwitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 135 - Role+Play+Game(aka I Want to Roll Dice in the First Half Hour)
Due to the plague, the lads have drafted in a Stunt Baz for this episode, but it's a goodie! Guy Milner off of the Burn After Running blog joins Gaz to talk about rolling dice and all elements of the Roll plus Game plus Playing hobby. Some top tips on using dice in your games and what to think about before you even start.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartpartyTwitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 134 - Final Podcast ...of the Year(aka D&D Doesn't Work for 10 Players Online)
It's nearly time for the year Mad Max takes place, but as we drive on fumes for the end of 2020, the lads get Mat Hart from Steamforged games along to talk about the state of the hobby, Kickstarters in a curious year, his new Epic Encounters and the trials and tribulations of gaming online. With some added tentative hopes for the future sprinkled in.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartpartyTwitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 133 - Skills(aka Show Me Your Penumbra)
The lads talk skills. Have we got them, do we need them, where did it all start and has it gone horribly wrong? From the good old days of 8% in detect / disarm traps, to the feat and abilities, what use are skills in RPGs, if any?
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartpartyTwitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 132 - Jon Hodgson Interview(aka Some of These People Have a Strong Throwing Arm)
The lads talk to home-grown talent and head of Handiwork Games, Jon Hodgson. From his great work as artist and art director on The One Ring, to writing, game design with his 9 year old, and many other hats, this wide-ranging discussion covers writing, designing, art in games and more! (Including Frankish kings and their bee fetish.)
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartpartyTwitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 131 - It's a Kind of Magic (aka Have You Spelled it Right?)
Magical energies suffuse the 'cast this time as the lads discuss magic in gaming. Sure, you can have mystical power, but at what price? How have the different iterations of D&D handled magic and did they get it right? All this and more awaits your summoning spell.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartpartyTwitters: twitter.com/the_smart_partyEmail: thesmartparty@hotmail.comKo-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartpartyPatreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 130 - King Arthur Pendragon (aka Can You Play From the Perspective of a Horse?)
Good friend of the show and line developer of King Arthur Pendragon, David Larkins returns, to reveal what's been going on at Chaosium with the latest edition on KAP, how the company is doing in new normal and new kickstarter about an old product. An increased focus on honour as well as glory, refined rules, new art and more are revealed. Roll for the Winter Phase and see if your wife, and more importantly your favourite horse, survive!
You can discover more for yourself in the links below:
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 129 - Fights Too (aka The World's Most Complicated Initiative System)
Back by popular request, both of the show's glorious listeners got in touch to say they'd like to hear more on fights in RPGs. Well, The Smart Party are here to please.
You can discover more for yourself in the links below:
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 128 - Fights (aka Back in Black)
Did you look at my pint funny? Roll for initiative! After a few games of Feng Shui 2 recently, the lads have thought about fights in RPGs. Is it necessary for combats to occur? Do they go on too long? How can you make them more interesting? All this and more, this episode!
You can discover more for yourself in the links below:
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 127 - Reviewing GM Advice (aka "I'm the Unknown Stunt Man")
There's plenty of GM advice out there in roleplaying land, but what about advice on the advice? This time on the 'cast, Gaz is joined by the Lee Majors of roleplaying, Dirk the Dice, from the Grognard Files Podcast to discuss sources of GM advice. From the ancient tomes handed down by Gygax himself, to the latest hot takes from blogs and the internet, our scholarly heroes delve into the dungeons to bring out the shimmering gems of golden advice.
You can discover more for yourself in the links below:
Robin Laws has given many talks and written several documents, including Robin's Laws of Good Game Mastering Sly Flourish (Michael E. Shea) wrote The Lazy Dungeon Master (and return thereof) James D'Amato has several novels, including The Ultimate RPG Gameplay Guide Gareth Ryder Hanrahan is an excellent RPG writer and is often giving out advice on the Pelgrane Press website. Greg Stolze's "How to Run Roleplaying Games" and many other resources are available on his website. The ancient words of Gary Gygax are still available in his Role-Playing Mastery work. A good general read, but especially for investigators, Justin Alexander's The Alexandrian is worth perusing. Rolltop Indigo provides some interesting view points to expand your gaming arsenal/
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 126 - One Shots (aka "All I Need Is One Good Shot")
In these times of muchos online play, virtual conventions and more, it's worth taking time to reflect on how to put together a decent one shot game and tips on playing or running. This time Gaz and Stunt Baz (Guy) talk through some expert advice on setting up your one shot games, garnered from many years of trial and error. Join the lads as they lay out what to do with your one shot slots, whether as a first timer or older hand looking for new tidbits!
You can get more Hot Guy Action on his Burn After Running blog.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
We always welcome lovely reviews on iTunes or elsewhere too. If you're less keen, give us a shout, we'd are open to development opportunities! :)
Episode 125 - Beautiful RPGs (aka "Am I Baz's Stunt Double?")
Who doesn't like an aesthetically pleasing book? "Sexy" RPGs (not in that way) lure in players like a moth to a flame. But is it all form over function. Guest presenter Guy Milner joins Gaz to talk through a top ten beauty parade of RPGs, highlights merits and occasionally flaws of their favourites, as well as honourable mentions for dessert. Come peruse the aural landscape and appreciate fine art.
You can get more Hot Guy Action on his Burn After Running blog.
If you dig actual plays and reviews of played modules, check out the new YouTube channel.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 124 - Negotiating D&D (aka "Nicole, please don't @ me")
There's more than one way round a problem, and this week the gents are joined by Dmitry Grozoubinski - an expert in negotiation and trade - to discuss how GMs and players can negotiate a session. The role of NPCs in a session, giving players what they want, the role of streaming games and the wealth of players on Reddit are discussed, among many interesting topics.
You can follow Dmitry on Twitter, and for non-gaming related skills in negotiation, head over to explaintrade.com
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 123 - Swords & Sorcery (aka I'm Oiling My Thews)
Conan cares not for your so-called lock down foul sorcerer. Oil up your shanks, dream of rubies the size of a pigeon's egg and climb the tower of set - it's time for a discussion of Conan and associated stories. The lads have been playing through some adventures set in the land of pulp sword and sorcery with good friends of the show Mat from Steamforged Games, and Rich August, a writer on much of the 2d20 Conan game line. Come one, come all and feast your ears on aural delights, or let the devils take you, by Crom!
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Episode 122 - Burnout (aka It's Not Me, It's You)
The global pandemic is biting and it's entirely possible folk are getting a little run down. This time the lads talk through burnout. What is it and what can be done? Are you just fed up for now and need a break, or is there something different going on? Settle into your favourite quiet space dear listeners, and let the old hands give you some words of advice.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 121 - System Matters Too (aka Systems Are Doing it for Themselves?)
The lads have been in lockdown and gaming like daemons. Gaming ones. This has given them exposure to new systems, allowed them to stress test some old ones, jaw about the comparisons between them and even think about what system are for. Dive on in and get the pithy answer to the eternal question "Does system matter?".
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Episode 120 - Online Gaming Advice (aka Can You Hear Me?)
Everywhere is on lockdown, but where there's challenge, there's opportunity. Baz and Gaz talk through the mysteries and vagaries of taking your RPGs online. How do you even get started? Where do you go to find a game? Why is everyone wearing headphones? Find out the answers to theses and many other question in this episode.
Here's are some useful links, talked about in the show:
Google Hangouts
Microsoft Teams
Discord
Zoom
Roll20
Example Wiki Page (setting up Marcos)
Fantasy Grounds
Astral Tabletop
Grogtalk
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Episode 119 - Spring is Sprung (aka Stop Saying Things, He Keeps Drawing Clocks)
The daffodils are bursting out the ground, it is (was) GM's Day, and there's lots of great gaming to talk about and emergent top tips in the making.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 118 - John Harper Interview (aka The Same Page Page)
John Harper is a game designer with an embarrassment of riches in his back catalogue. Blades in the Dark, Lady Blackbird, Lasers and Feelings, Danger Patrol, Ghost/Echo and most recently the rebooted Agon in collaboration with Sean Nittner. He joins the lads to discuss BitD and other forged in the dark games, share insights on upcoming content including the cyberpunk Null Vector, reflect on Lady Blackbird and of course give insights into the latest project of Greek heroes, Agon.
You can find out more about his games on the One Seven design page, including some free, back his efforts by supporting Patreon, or find him on Twitter among other places. Check out Agon on the Evil Hat website.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 117 - Lou Prosperi Interview (aka Are Your Listeners Familiar With Earthdawn?)
This week Lou Prosperi, developer for Earthdawn joins the lads to reveal all kinds of interesting detail from behind the scenes at FASA in the 90s. How do you even pronounce FASA? Where was the game line headed? What are the dragons up to and why hasn't the magical level in Barsaive dropped to zero? Fans of how games companies used to operate back in the day, Earthdawn nerds, those seeking insight into the mind of an RPG developer... seek no further, The Smart Party have got you covered.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Let's wind back the clock to where the stories of this podcast began, it's 1994 and the lads are talking Earthdawn. Cult classic, D&D Done Right, post-apocalyptic fantasy, the history of Shadowrun even - call it what you will. The boys gives you all you need to know on their oft-mentioned favourite game from yesteryear. What is the Step System? What makes Dwarves different? How do magic items become Legendary? Bathe yourselves in an hour of nostalgia and misty-eyed reminiscing of one of the finest games in the back catalogue.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 115 - 2020 Vision (aka Get Your Earthdawn '93 While It's Hot)
It's the year of Cyberpunk 2020 and lots to look forward to aside from monoblade katanas and trenchcoats. The lads go through some of the upcoming delights for the new year, games due to land, whispers of new things, plans for getting some gaming in and what they've already rolled dice on. Plus, some talk on going back to old games, new editions and how to get a gaming group together in busy times.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 114 - Review of 2019 (aka Making Up For The Deep Freeze)
The lads look back at a year in gaming, when they've been up to, the pros and cons of playing D&D and what they might do in the new year. To spice things up, they are joined by special guests Dirk the Dice from The Grognards Files and co-author of Call of Cthulhu 7th ed, Paul Fricker of the Good Friends of Jackson Elias podcast. Grab a mulled wine and mince pie, and settle in for an hour of top chat.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 113 - How To Be A Better Player (Live from Dragonmeet, London, 2019)
The lads have been down to London Village for Dragonmeet 2019. Among other fantastic activities, they hosted a seminar on being a better player. If you want great advice on quite literally upping your game, then look no further! Joined by special guests (co-authors of Call of Cthulhu 7th ed) Paul Fricker of the Good Friends of Jackson Elias podcast and CoC Creative Director Mike Mason, the panel provided all manner of top tips and advice, to rapturous applause.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 112 - Zachary Cox Interview (a.k.a Best Left Buried)
Creator of Best Left Buried by Soul Muppet Publishing and new Kickstarter Beneath the Missing Sea, as well as publisher of other independents, Zachary Cox joins the lads to talk about his latest creations, designing and publishing gamers, creator meet ups and what the heck is OSR anyway?
You can sign up for Zach's mailing list here Join the discord for lively chat Old school it on Facebook too Find him on the Twitters! @JellyMuppet
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 111 - David Larkins Interview (a.k.a Go Kill A Giant)
Line Editor for the King Arthur Pendragon RPG, author of Berlin: The Wicked City and more, David Larkins joins the lads this time to talk about his writing and all thing Pendragon related. Hear about Greg Stafford's legacy, the future direction for the line, different modes of play and all the latest info on Chaosium's laser-focused Arthurian RPG. As well as thoughts on alternate settings, art directions and more, Dave chats about his design process and inspirations, a must for all Chaosium fans.
You can find the free Greg Day scenarios, including Pendragon: Quest of the Red Blade and adventures for Call of Cthulhu, Runequest, 7th Sea and more by following this link.
Fancy yourself as an artist or writer for one of the Chaosium game lines? You can find more about game content submissions here.
Want to hear was actual-play sounds like and get some great examples of games in action? Dave's podcast has you covered.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 110 - Jeremy Crawford Interview (a.k.a Illusionary Dragons)
Lead Rules Designer for D&D, mind behind Sage Advice and Unearthed Arcana, and all round man on the scene for all D&D books, the lads were delighted to have Jeremy Crawford on for an interview. An insight into his daily work, lots of detail on the upcoming Eberron release, and much more, including advice for new DMs and some hints on the future of D&D.
Regrettably there were some technical recording issues this time and so the sound losses are down to the vagaries of internet recording, rather than deliberate Dalek impressions from any guests or hosts.
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Bonus Episode - Robin Laws at The Kraken 2019 (a.k.a You and I Can Go Fight Some Lesser Podcasts)
He was last at The Kraken two years ago, and so when Robin Laws returned in 2019, it was only right that we tried to get some time to talk to him again about what he's been up to, reminisce about some old products and get some hot tips on producing better content for aspiring writers everywhere. The Yellow King, Glorantha, Earthdawn, Feng Shui, Gumshoe, etc., the list of credits is too long to list, so sit back and relax as we let Robin do the talking.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 109 - Quickstarts (a.k.a Need To Know Information)
A common feature of games these days, led perhaps by RPG Day and other thing, is the "Quick Start". An adventure, some characters, enough rules to play. Should be easy, right? As the lads discover when talking through the topic though, there's a lot of features people want from a Quickstart and they can vary in form and function. Dive in and hear about some examples of what's on the market, and hear the good, bad and ugly.
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Starter Sets (a.k.a. Double Demogorgon)
Are they just there for bring people in? Essential tools? Collector pieces? Whatever you might think, starter sets are a thing (again?) now, with most of the main players producing one. Call of Cthulhu, Legend of the Five Rings, D&D, Pathfinder, Star Trek, Numenera and more... The lads talk about what they'd like to see in a starter set and now some examples stack up.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 107 - Electric Bastionland (a.k.a You Have Shared Ownership of a Child's Musket)
Into the Odd was one of the lad's favourite independent game offerings of a couple of years ago, and now Chris McDowall is back again with his follow up, Electric Bastionland. Chris jumps in to talk about the imminent Kickstarter (early November 2019), what the design process was on the new game, what new and improved and much more. Plus! A five minute character creation session and other great content.
If you want to see Chris' Blog find out more here
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 106 - Versions and Editions (a.k.a. d4 Damage for the Ill Behaviour)
Don't remember the Edition Wars do you junior? Well, pull a stool, buy a tankard of ale and let the old timers tell you all about it... This week the lads go into new editions, versions and reboots. With special guest Mat Hart from Steamforged Games, the guys talk about why new editions come about, if they really change anything and if not, why not?
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 105 - Savage Worlds Settings (a.k.a. I'd Just Savage It)
In the concluding part of their talk about Savage Worlds (for now!), the boys go through the some of the settings for the game, official and otherwise - as well as discussing what you can do for creating your own setting or adapting other things.
Pinnacle Entertainment have lots of news on the core products, licenced goodies and an active forum too.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 104 - Savage Worlds Walkthrough - Part Two (a.k.a. Who Doesn't Like Rolling 15d8?)
Savage Worlds part two, electric bugaloo. Who doesn't like cool subsystems and engaging GM advice? Savage Worlds has a lovely variety of bonus rules, including Allies, Mass Battles, Dramatic Tasks and more. The lads also discuss powers, magic and otherwise - plus the excellent GM advice section! Plus, of course, an overview of the game as a whole.
Pinnacle Entertainment have lots of news on the core products, licenced goodies and an active forum too.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 103 - Savage Worlds Walkthrough - Part One (a.k.a. What Colour is Your Wild Die?)
Savage Worlds is one of the lad's favourite games, they've been there since the beginning (arguably before!) and the new Adventure Edition is hitting virtual inboxes everywhere, with the physical products due in store soon (sometimes referred to as SWADE) - so let the guys take you on a walkthrough of one of the best action adventure systems out there. Great for beginners thinking of joining in, or old hands who want to see what's new.
Pinnacle Entertainment have lots of news on the core products, licenced goodies and an active forum too.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 102 - UK Games Expo and King of Dungeons (a.k.a Electric Boogaloo)
The lads kick back and reminisce about the recent UK Games Expo, their seminar, people they met, things they saw and games they played. Also, a review of The Kraken spring break, other small convention happening and of course, chatter about the King of Dungeons Kickstarter that funded in just 13 minutes.
Thanks to everyone that chatted to or otherwise supported the guys or the 'cast over the weekend. Good to get a game from the guys at The Effekt podcast and try out the new Alien RPG from Free League.
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Episode 101 - How to GM - Live From UK Games Expo 2019 UK Games Expo is the third largest gaming convention in the world, and the lads were there to chat to people, buy goodies and of course, run the "How to GM at Conventions" panel. With good friends of the show Dirk the Dice and Paul Fricker, from the Grognard Files and Good Friends of Jackson Elias respectively.
The guys had an amazing time, and a great audience full of questions. Lesson learned - rephrase the question for the microphones! Maybe next time. Thanks to UK Games Expo for hosting the 'cast - a great event as always.
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!
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It's that time of year - the UK's biggest gaming event is just around the corner. UK Games Expo 2019 is upon us and the lads have a good old natter about what to do, things to see and what's hot for 2019. Never been before? Just want to get excited? Happy just to hear geeks chunter on about gaming stuff? It's all here...
Join The Smart Party and special guests Dirk the Dice from the Grognard Files and Paul Fricker from The Good Friends of Jackson Elias, for a seminar at noon Saturday of Expo, as they give you the low down on how to get the most out of your RPG sessions. Top tips, sage advice, fascinating war stories, and answers to your burning questions. Whether you want to know how to get started, or are an old hand looking for the latest hot take – they’re here for you!
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!
Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 100 - Centenary Celebrations! (a.k.a Here's To 100 More)
Back in the mists of time, the earth cooled and then there were dinosaurs. Not long after Baz and Gaz were sitting round drinking whisky and solving gaming. It's been 100 episodes! Officially, in reality there have been many more, with bonus episodes, actual play and no one really knows what happened to episode 11. Good friends of the show Dirk the Dice and Paul Fricker come along to help celebrate, talking about the last five years of RPGs and looking forward to the next five.
The lads would like to thank all their Glorious Guests over the years, Dirk the Dice from the Grognard Files and Paul Fricker from The Good Friends of Jackson Elias for guesting here, Iain McAlister from the Brainwaves podcast for standing in when Baz goes AWOL, of course all the wonderful Patreons that keep the show going, and of course, both their listeners. This is for all of you!
Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you! Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 99 - Roleplaying Games of the 70s (a.k.a Watership Down Scarred Me For Life)
Simpler times, halcyon days? Baz and Gaz take a trip down memory lane and go through some of the very first RPGs from D&D in 1974, to Bushido on the cusp of the veritable explosion of product in the 80s. Even the venerable and wizened hosts aren't old enough to be buying the games as they came out, so conversation is sometimes mere impressions of the heady days at the cradle of gaming, but don't worry dear listeners, the 80s will be along soon for a double episode!
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Episode 98 - Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 4th Edition (a.k.a Show Us Your Two-Tailed Comet)
‘So, what are you here for? Adventure? Maybe. Gold? Probably. Justice? Ha, that’s a flexible term! What’s that I see in your eye, that pious gleam? Oh, you want to do the right thing. So long as it’s well enough paid, entertaining, and fits with your political views. Eh, close enough, you’ll do, come inside and I’ll tell you about the job.’
So begins the intro of WFRP 4e, a grim world of perilous of adventure - Baz and Gaz are long time fans and walk through the latest iteration giving sage insights, wistful comments on older editions and generally getting excited about how pretty it is.
Find out about WFRP 4e at the Cubicle 7 site
You can listen to some Actual Play of the game! Good friends of the show, The Grognard Files play in their 2018 summary show We have some more on this very site! There's even more (for free) on our Patreon page!
Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty
Episode 97 - Dennis Detwiller Interview (a.k.a. Everyone Walking Around In Parkas )
Top guestage again dear listeners, the lads chat to RPG writer and artist Dennis Detwiller who you will no doubt recognise from Ennie-award winning Delta Green, Magic the Gathering, GODLIKE and much more - including Arc Dream's latest Kickstarter (at time of writing) Wrestlenomicon. The guys talk about the changes in writing and publishing games, classic RPGs, improvements in the industry and making a quality product, plus games stores and digital art and much more.
You can check out more of Dennis' work at his patreon page, by visiting Arc Dream, and there's lots of good Delta Green content on the dedicated site. He's also active on the Twitters - follow him here!
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 all the Patreons who keep the 'cast on the air. Encourage the lads by becoming a Patreon supporter, which will lead to fully fleshed out scenarios, fanzines and more!
Episode 96 - Ken Hite Interview (a.k.a What If Vampires Are Snake People?)
Top guestage again this time dear listeners as the lads chat to gaming luminary Ken Hite about Vamprire, Night's Black Agents, The Fall of Delta Green, Nephilim, future projects, novels, games design, ploughing the world's history for gameable content, pilum throw weights and much more!
You can get more podcast goodness by listening to Ken and Robin Talk About Stuff (KARTAS).
Ken mentioned Star Crossed by Alex Roberts, which you can find on Bully Pulpit Games and Nathan Paoletta's upcoming Imp of the Perverse has details here.
Some of the other games we mentioned: Fall of Delta Green Night's Black Agents Vampire V5 Nephilim
And of course, the author to recommend to your 10 year olds, Diana Wynne Jones. Gaz recommends The Vory and other books by Mark Galeotti while you're buying books.
Finally, there's the Mercenaries, Spies and Private Eyes kickstarter.
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, Martin, Chris and Will! 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!
Episode 95 - Dungeon Master's Guide - Part Two (a.k.a. A Thinking DMs Book)
With a surfeit of D&D designer guests and other goodness, the lads round off their current D&D coverage with a walkthrough of the second half of the DMG. What old favourites still languish in the book, and what exciting new gems? How has the last few years of gaming and writing thereof influenced this tome? When D&D 6 comes out - will we even still have a DMG? All this and more is discussed in this week's bumper episode.
Look out for the 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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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:
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!
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!
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.
Join 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!
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!
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!
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:
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!
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.
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!
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!
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
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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… click here.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Check out their Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.
Direct download here!