Know Direction Network: Recent Episodes
Know Direction Network
All of Know Direction’s Shows, including Pathfinder and Starfinder News, Reviews, Interviews, and Actual Play podcasts.
In episode 147 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with the designer of Lava Run, Louie Loops, whom listeners may also recognize as the professional crocheter and content creator behind the YouTube channel “Louie’s Loops” and Club Crochet.
Louie shares how childhood game-making and a creative challenge called “New Game” sparked his interest in design, and how he eventually merged his love of crochet with game design to create “craftable games.”
We discuss turning frustration into creative inspiration, balancing strategy and randomness, comeback mechanics, expansions, and what happens after a game is published. Louie also shares what it’s like to launch a game with an existing audience, market to non-gamers, and enter a new industry as a beginner after being an expert in his craft.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Louie Loops – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
In episode 146 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with Ionah Nguyen, a Seattle-based board game designer and founder of the board game studio Brainy Hearty.
Ionah is also the co-founder and CEO of Everjoy Global, a company dedicated to bringing Vietnamese tabletop games to international publishers and distributors by creating opportunities for Vietnamese designers to gain visibility and connections in the industry.
In this episode, we discuss how games can be used to preserve tradition and bridge cultures through play, accessibility feedback from playtesters, colorblind adjustments, the unique production challenges of manufacturing handcrafted game components, and some of the barriers to entry encountered by international designers.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Ionah Nguyen– Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
In this episode GM Jason Keely gives some insights into Chapter 1 of the Hellbreakers AP, having just run it in addition to being the author.
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)
Pathfinder casters will never be the same, and neither will Rob and Ryan as they take in the full mystical force of Impossible Magic.
Paizo designer Joshua Birdsong has hinted at the greatness of the new spellcasting options in this book. Now he can reveal every arcane, divine, occult, and divine secret locked within.
Recorded live on Tuesday, July 21st on Twitch.tv/Knowdirection.
Listen Now! (mp3)
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
Our heroes face a difficult decision with the Captain of a Hellknight Ship!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
For his first episode, new Know Direction host Rob Pontious gets to cover the Paizo-Diamond situation as well as Paizo ending their license agreement with Archives Of Nethys. Recorded live on Twitch.tv/Knowdirection.
Listen Now! (mp3)
A few months ago we released a couple of segments on YouTube intended for Know Direction 309 and 310. Unfortunately, we struggled to secure the guests intended for the other segments of the episode, delaying the release of those episodes. Now that Rob Pontious is joining Ryan as cohost of KD, we’re releasing the two segments as episode 309 and releasing the first Rob episode as 310.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 145 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with game designer and owner of Ludoliminal, Sabrina Culyba, about the story behind her completely accurate, family-friendly dinosaur game Uh Oh, Dino!
Sabrina shares how after spending 13 years in the video game industry, she found her way into tabletop game design through a game design contest that challenged participants to create a game from a random bag of components. We talk about how playing games with her young daughter inspired her passion for designing family games, and why cooperative games have become such a meaningful way to bring players of different ages together.
The episode also covers the impact of tactile components when designing and games for children, balancing cooperative games, self-publishing, how everyone has a “dino era,” and the differences between playtesting with children and adults.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Sabrina Culyba – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Alex and James look at the backbone of every combat focused Starfinder party, the 2e Solder.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
The Hellbreakers are in a fierce battle, and some may not survive the night!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 144 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with freelance game designer and co-founder of Postmark Games, Matthew Dunstan.
Matthew shares how his curiosity for understanding what happens behind the scenes led him from being a sports referee and umpire in Australia to moving to the UK, where a growing design community, weekly meetups, and a game design contest helped launch his full-time design career.
Together, we discuss how digital playtesting has transformed the industry, designer compensation and contracts, collaborative design, how to create successful print-and-play games, and why building a stronger, more sustainable tabletop industry starts with supporting the people who create it.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Matthew Dunstan – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
Our heroes go on a dangerous mission to find a missing friend!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
Ryan summarizes the big news about the Transformers, G.I. JOE, and Power Rangers roleplaying games from Renegade Game Studios.
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
At last week’s Renegade Con June 2026 Stream, during the Renegade Con Reveals June 2026 segment, Anais Morgan (Renegade’s Product Development Specialist) and Rina Amaranthine (Renegade’s Community & Crowdfunding Manager) announced upcoming crowdfunding plans for the Transformers, G.I. JOE, and Power Rangers second editions.
Essence20 fans had questions. Jordan Gaeta, Senior Marketing Manager at Renegade Game Studios, and Ben Heisler, Associate Producer of Roleplaying Games, had answers. Ryan has their quotes.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Paizo wants to fit more spellcasters and magic into Pathfinder. Impossible, you say? Explore the development of the 2e magus, runesmith, summoner, and necromancer, as well as Impossible Magic’s 240+ spells. Streamed live on May 24th, 2026 at PaizoCon Online 2026.
Listen Now!(mp3)
We all love Pathfinder and Starfinder, but these influencers made loving Paizo’s games their whole online identity. They share what motivated them to get into the Paizo influencer space, how they built an audience, and tell stories of their memorable moments.
Featuring James Beck, Runia da Witch, Phoebe Bane, and Mathfinder.
Streamed live on Sunday, May 24th, at PaizoCon Online 2026.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Starfinder designers Dustin Knight and Aras Yazgan shine some light on the latest class for Starfinder 2e, the Luminary.
Streamed live on Sunday, May 24th at PaizoCon Online 2026.
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 143 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with board game designer and founder of Pink Hawk Games, Emily Vincent.
After a career in software and UX design, Emily caught the game design bug when she realized the games she wanted to play simply weren’t on the table. She shares how her love of afternoon tea inspired Pirates of the High Teas, leading to a great discussion on thematic integration, player motivation, and making mechanics feel believable.
The episode also covers how Emily’s UX background informs playtesting and player feedback, managing player expectations, game naming and SEO, overlooked maintenance mechanics, the realities of crowdfunding, the rise of delightfully unique themes in tabletop, and how embracing authenticity and challenging traditional ideas of professionalism can lead to greater success both in design and in life.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Emily Vincent – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
The Starfinder team talks about everything* coming up for Starfinder 2e!
*Except for The Luminary, which gets its own seminar.
Streamed live on May 24th, 2026, as part of PaizoCon Online 2026.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Pathfinder is not just a roleplaying game but also its setting. The Myth Keeper tells us why Lost Omens is the best campaign setting. Streamed live on Saturday, May 23rd, 2026.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Three experienced Game Masters, Ivis Flanagan, James Beck, and Rick Sandidge, are here to help you up your game. They share their experiences running Pathfinder and Starfinder adventures, and answer questions from chat.
Streamed live on May 23rd, 2026.
Listen Now!(mp3)
It wouldn’t be PaizoCon without an advice seminar for freelancer writers and designers looking to get published.
Featuring Jeremy Croff, Tony Saunders, and Katrina Hennessy.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Paizo’s Jessica Catalan and Shay Snow share what’s coming down the pipeline for Pathfinder Society and Starfinder Society.
Note, this was streamed live on May 23rd. We have since learned that due to a restructuring at Paizo, Organized Play plans have changed and, sadly, Shay Snow has been laid off. This seminar reflects Paizo’s Organized Play plans as of May 2026.
Listen Now!(mp3)
We kick off PaizoCon Online 2026 with Welcome To PaizoCon Online 2026. It’d be weird if it was anything but our first seminar, really. Paizo’s Dustin Knight and Ivis Flanagan join Know Direction’s Ryan Costello to talk about what PaizoCon means to them as Pathfinder and Starfinder fans turned TTRPG professionals, and what to expect from the Pathfinder and Starfinder fan’s comfort con this year.
Listen Now!(mp3)
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
Our heroes flee from, and then return to a burning ship!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
Alex and James share their thoughts on the latest Starfinder class, The Luminary, currently in playtest.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 142 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with freelance game designer Rosco Schock about his first published game, Diplomacy: The Golden Blade, released by Renegade Game Studios. The conversation focuses on the challenge of translating the “feel” of a classic, beloved strategy game into a streamlined and more approachable card game experience.
We also discuss the path from prototype to publication, finding the right publisher and timing for a licensed project, and balancing respect for a 60-year-old franchise while creating something new. Rosco explains how Diplomacy: The Golden Blade now serves as an on-ramp to the larger Diplomacy experience, why understanding a game’s unique selling points matters, and how patience and persistence pay off in game design. Plus, we learn what a game triathlon is.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Rosco Schock – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
Our heroes become pirates to gain needed supplies for the resistance!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 141 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with librarian and game designer, Lewis Graye, whose game design journey began after relocating to Syracuse, becoming part of the local tabletop scene, and participating in a game design contest at a wedding.
They share the story of Lewis’ first published design, Inkwell, and its unexpected path to publication, which began as a playtest mechanic that DVC Games expanded into a full game whose theme was inspired by the animated movie, The Secret of Kells.
The discussion continues into the use of historical, open source inscriptions for content, the importance of balancing gameplay so it stays fun without becoming overly cutthroat, adapting designs to publisher constraints like box size and component changes, how player experience can shift depending on the group, designing escape rooms, the importance of getting a playable prototype to the table early, and how the salt in the Syracuse water yields some pretty great game designers.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Lewis Graye – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
Our heroes run smack dab into an ambush in a warehouse!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
Alex and James look at the Starfinder second edition Tales Of The Vast Adventure Anthology.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 140 of Game Design Unboxed, we talk with Andrew Stiles, game designer and co-host of the podcast Tabletop Submarine, about how discovering GDU early in his design journey helped him better understand the tabletop space, and how a life reset during COVID (and a challenge to get a game signed in 6-months by his wife) sparked a career pivot into game design.
We talk about his first game, Wine Cellar, and how the inspiration came from his previous background as a sommelier, prompting him to lean into the “design what you know” mentality. Andrew talks us through key development decisions, such as scaling player counts, reworking card math, and how table space and visibility shape the player experience.
The episode also covers other topics, including the realities of breaking into the industry, the value of the UNPUB mentorship program, researching and targeting the right publishers, why smaller conventions are a great place to network for new designers, Board Game Arena (BGA) implementations, designing for non-gamers, and bad fonts that keep you up at night.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Andrew Stiles – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
Our heroes face off against giant undead bats!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 139 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with Jade Shames and Ben Bronstein, co-founders of Pillbox Games and co-designers of this episode’s spotlight game, Side Effects.They talk about how a mental illness–inspired card game idea (later titled Side Effects) sparked their collaboration and company, the power of bold visuals, why skeletons make perfect models, the balance between realism and accessibility, adjusting setup rules for varying player counts, and being innovative when it comes to product design for your games.
They also discuss homebrew variants, the all-too-familiar and disturbing medical side-effect warnings in commercials, and the hope that, if a misprint or typo occurs in print, it might become a collectible one day!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Jade Shames and Ben Bronstein – Guests
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Alex and James share their thoughts on the latest Starfinder 2e hardcover: Galactic Ancestries.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
Our heroes begin the journey west and run into trouble!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 138 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with Edwin D. Benton II, Founder and CEO of Doin’ the Most Games, about how his journey into game design stemmed from an addiction to app games like Words With Friends and a frustration with their limitations. This inspired him to build his own inclusive, slang-driven app where players could contribute words from around the world, a mindset that evolved into the world of tabletop card games, which were gaining popularity at the time.We talk about the spontaneous vacation sing-along moment that sparked Song Survivor, his playtesting process (from parties with friends to blind tests), his passion for designing for players with disabilities and specific cultural groups, hiring experts, packaging for mass market (why box size matters), and leveraging celebrity endorsements (and how to get them).Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Michael Mihealsick – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
When two Inner Sea superpowers go to war, the ripples are felt throughout the region. A group of intrepid heroes…or should we say intrepid rebels…. join a league of righteous freedom fighters to unshackle their people from the binds of infernal tyranny. Nefarious forces from without—and within—will do anything to stop these Hellbreakers.
Meet our heroes as they join the rebellion and begin their first mission!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Rue Dickey – Nolastri
Isis Wozniakowska – Misera
John Godek – Thadeus (Tad)
Ron Lundeen – Augustus
Mark Woolcott – Flak
Pathfinder Hellbreakers Adventure Path Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 137 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with freelance game designer and developer for Druid City Games, Michael Mihealsick who shares industry insights from years of working for multiple companies, taking on freelance projects, and continually refining his game design craft.
We discuss the rise of cozy game design and what that means for different players, the niche book-collecting concept featured in this episode’s game highlight, “A Place for All My Books,” and how ditching a victory point tracker allowed for a competitive game to still feel safe and inviting.
Other topics in this episode include how games can adopt an audience or become a lifestyle experience, the feeling of being “typecast” as a designer, the definition of laundry day and frankenstein in game designer language and artwork differences for the same game in different countries.Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Michael Mihealsick – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
The exciting conclusion to Murder in Metal City!
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 136 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with freelance game designer (and Danielle’s co-designer on Tricky Kids), Steven Ungaro, who shares his “zero-to-three-games-in-a-year-hero” design journey.
They discuss how discovering hobby games led him down the research rabbit hole many aspiring designers fall into, and how resources like the long-running Ludology podcast have evolved over the years.
Because it is Steven’s specialty, the episode covers a lot about trick-taking games, including designing for “bad hands,” the genre’s popularity in the Midwest, and making it more accessible to non-trick-takers.
They also talk about how playtest feedback can shift your perspective on terminology, mechanics, and rule clarity, common phobias in games, matching art aesthetics to theme, and how players can rely on familiar stories (like The Three Little Pigs) when learning new games.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Steven Ungaro – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Paizo’s Starfinder Society Developer Jessica Catalan updates Alex and James on the past, present, and future of SFS.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
At last our heroes find the Professor’s killer! But wait, he was trying to save the universe? Clearly there is more to the story.
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 135 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with freelance game designer Kristen Mott, whose game design journey began with creating games for her kids to play at home to supplement homeschooling.We talk about how kids are great built-in playtesters, how her children’s interests were her thematic inspiration for designs, what kids learn through play, and the wild thematic evolution of Stable Times from a game about starfish, to tattooing sea monsters, to horses.
Other topics include how co-designing expands your skills, the value of feedback, her experience self-publishing, and the realities of waiting on contracts, ghosting, and publisher limbo.
The conversation also talks about adding personal Easter eggs to your game and the collection of real horses featured in Stable Times.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Kristen Mott – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Somehow our heroes need to escape the watchful eye of Striving law enforcement long enough to prove their innocence.
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 134 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with first-time game designer Reed Ambrose about his family-weight, tile-laying game Wispwood.Reed shares how his journey began with BoardGameGeek (BGG) contests just for fun, and how collaborating with published designers pushed his craft forward and helped him take design seriously.We discuss why design contests like the ones on BGG are a great starting point (structure! deadlines!), how an UNPUB speed-pitching event helped Reed get on publishers’ radar, and the eerie folklore behind Wispwood, inspired by his fascination with the ghostly forest lights known as Ignis Fatuus.
We also cover what it’s like working with publishers, from building relationships to how pitches move through design and development teams, why having multiple themed prototypes matters, and the challenge of designing a solo mode that stays true to your game.
This episode also opens with a brief bonus interview previewing March’s upcoming UNPUB Festival, an annual event hosted by the volunteer organization UNPUB focused on unpublished games and designers. The intro-chat highlights the event’s offerings, from industry-led panels and workshops to large-scale playtesting opportunities. Check out the convention March 12-15, 2026!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Reed Ambrose – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Alex and James get to the bottom of The Kimmel Conspiracy. They ask Mike about his journey as a professional in the TTRPG industry (including his first appearance on the Know Direction Network, way back in the Know Direction RPG Superstar 2014 Special), his roles at Paizo, his work on the recent Starfinder 2e hardcover Alien Core, and hints at what to expect from the upcoming Tech Core.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Someone has framed our heroes and now they need to prove it!
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 133 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with game designer and Creative Director Paul Salomon about his innovative worker placement and tile-laying game, Honey Buzz. The conversation covers the creative path that led him from math, music, and juggling into tabletop game design, the balance between aesthetics and mechanics, designing with math in mind, and why a strong elevator pitch that clearly defines your game’s core theme and mechanics is essential when pitching.
The episode also includes a thoughtful discussion on collaboration and co-designing, the differences between game designers and game developers, and the sometimes awkward conversations that can come with crediting creative work.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Paul Salomon – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Jason, John and Ron discuss Digital Divination’s upcoming hiatus and some of the things they’ll be working on during the down time. And about fighting a Tarrasque!
Listen Now!Watch Now!
Our heroes are attacked as they investigate the university’s archives!
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 132 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication, Amanda Rivera returns from behind-the-scenes to behind-the-mic as a guest host to chat with Danielle about GDU’s sixth season. They talk about how thematic season 6 was, recall insights about arguably one of the most common questions in game design (to pitch or self-publish), share how designers make games accessible and approachable, comment on the power of networking in the tabletop community, and share more about the amazing games and guests who were featured this season.
Danielle also shares previews of her upcoming games and expansions, discusses the trials and tribulations of the gaming industry in 2025, and highlights trends she’s noticed on the horizon.
Other interesting highlights from the season six recap:
- How games can inspire connections between people (especially cooperative games that link players together with a common goal).
- Networking, networking, networking!
- How Amanda always needs to know the flavor text for who the first player is.
- Danielle explains the definition of her term “art correction” rather than art direction. Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Danielle Reynolds – Guest
Amanda Rivera – Guest Host
In a break from our normal programming, our heroes celebrate Newspark in honor of the coming New Year!
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from all of your Intrepid Heroes!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 131 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with game designer Matt Leacock about his “infamous” game Pandemic.
Matt explains how his path into game design was shaped by watching his artsy uncle create games as a hobby and by growing up surrounded by “bad” games from the 1970s that he couldn’t help but try to improve. We discuss how overly competitive family game nights pushed him toward cooperative play, and how his first true co-op game inspired him to design experiences where players succeed or fail together. That philosophy, paired with an interest in chain reactions and the cultural relevance of disease in the early 2000s became the foundation of Pandemic.
We talk about the thought process behind the game’s map, designing with real-world locations, drawing from existing game mechanics, and the value of diverse and remote playtesting. We also discuss working on game expansions, legacy design, teamwork, and how strong design skills support better prototypes and long-term vision.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Matt Leacock – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Put up your dukes, Ryan and Charles are getting scrappy.
In honour of Boxing Day, Charles wanted to know more about how melee combat works in Essence20. Ryan breaks down the rules, melee’s purpose in the system, some good options for melee builds, and the origin of the melee weapon rules.
Listen Now! (mp3)VideoShow NotesAs Indiana Jones demonstrated, if you had a gun, why would you use a sword? What is the importance of melee in a game with guns and lasers?
Topic: Melee in Essence 20The Essence 20 system has a great number of Melee options across all of the worlds that it covers. What does Melee give us?
Melee In Essence20
- Might and Finesse.
- Ranged attacks in melee.
- Grappling.
Why is Melee important to have?
- Every soldier carries a knife.
- Critical to the settings.
- More dramatic than guns.
- A wider range of options for players.
- Sometimes a sword is better.
- Ninjas.
Good examples of Melee focused characters:
- Power Rangers: Every Power Ranger.
- G.I. JOE: Storm Shadow, Jinx, Sgt. Slaughter, Big Boa. Rocky?
- Transformers: Devastator, Bludgeon. The Dinobots.
- My Little Pony: Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Big Mac.
- Why are they Iconic?
Melee Roles
- What makes a good Melee Role?
- Perks
- Essence Score Boosts
- Power Rangers: Black, Green, Red, Yellow, Path of Flame, Purple
- G.I. JOE: Commando, Renegade, Ranger, Vanguard
- Transformers: Analyst, Modemaster, Scientist, Warrior
- My Little Pony: Spirit of Loyalty
Melee weapons
- The evolution of melee weapons
Shout Outs* G.I.Joe Headcast: https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith * Thank you Patrons for keeping our lights on. * Thank you Wordburglar for the use of Letters From Snake Eyes part 4.
Although Ryan works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John, Jason, and Ron talk about some of their holiday traditions and then dive into creating a grumpy holiday monster!
Listen Now!Watch Now!
Our heroes head to a memorial for these deceased friend, only to be attacked by android terrorists!
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
Alex and James give their spoiler-free thoughts on Starfinder 2e’s first published adventures, Murder In Metal City and Guilt of the Grave World.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 130 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with game designer Joe Hout about his fairytale-themed trick-taking game, 3 Chapters, accessibility in gaming, and his design journey.
Joe shares how his path into game design began by tweaking games he loved and then took off after completing a passion-project game he self-published via Kickstarter. We break apart 3 Chapters and how the creation of the game was a culmination of favorite mechanics and key moments from various games he’s designed over the years.
This episode covers common barriers to entry in board games, from rule overload to games that are difficult to teach, and why familiar themes like fairytales can make learning feel intuitive. Joe and Danielle discuss how storytelling can help teach and pitch games – especially trick-taking games – which can feel frustrating or intimidating to players who are new to certain mechanics.
Joe talks about the joy of hearing players say, “let’s play again,” the value of sticky rules that make it easy to return to a game after time away, and why a game’s weight matters less than its intended audience and purpose. We also discuss learning through design podcasts and tools, collaborating with great publishers, and how those relationships open doors across the tabletop industry.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Joe Hout – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Listener @jasonsumma1530 asked what Ryan would change about the Core Rulebooks if Renegade Game Studios released 2.0 versions. This is NOT an announcement that Essence20 2.0 is a thing, just speculation with the benefit of hindsight on the ideal layout of an Essence20 Core Rulebook.
Listen Now! (mp3)VideoShow NotesThis topic was suggested by @jasonsumma1530 on YouTube, who asked:
“IF you could do a CRB 2.0 for any of the original three, what would you change? Would it be possible to condense it all into one slightly larger book since most of the rules are pretty much the same? Would it be better to do something similar in the line of DnD where you have a GMB (Game Manager Book) and CB (Character Book) with all of the updates in each”
Topic: The Core Rulebook 2.0 The Essence 20 system has been learning, maturing, and bringing everything that it has learned into its new products. If Ryan was going to apply everything that he’s learned to developing a CRB 2.0, what changes would he make and how would that improve the GM and Player experience.
What is a Core Rulebook and what importance does it hold to a gaming system?
- Set the tone
- Establish the setting
- Establish credentials
- Explain the rules
- Provide options
Redesigning the CRB
- Goals for a redesign
- What would be your goals for a redesign?
- One Core Rule book or one for each Property?
- One chapter at a time
- Chapter 1: Introduction
- Foreword
- Introductory Essay
- Chapter 2: Essence20 Essentials
- What Is An RPG
- Essence20 Essentials
- Character Creation
- Chapter 3-5: Influences, Origins, and Roles
- One chapter for each of the games big three options, in the order that makes the most sense for the setting.
- Chapter 6: Essences, Defenses, and Skills
- Include rules for Skills Tests
- Chapter 7: General Perks
- Chapter 8: Equipment
- Chapter 9: Setting Specific Chapter
- Zords, Converting, Magic, etc. Possibly more than one chapter.
- Contacts
- Factions
- Chapter 10: Conflict
- Combat
- Challenges
- Stress
- Exploration
- Size and stuff
- Chapter 11: For Game Masters
- What is a scene?
- Telling a story
- Chapter 12: Threats
- Chapter 13: Adventure
- Chapter 1: Introduction
Shout Outs* Latest Essential Builds: John Cena * Next: You tell Ryan! + Eleven (Stranger Things) + Benoit Blanc (Knives Out) + Klaus (Klaus) * Maester Aelix’s Transformers chargen videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MaesterAelix * G.I.Joe Headcast: https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith * Thank you Patrons for keeping our lights on. * Thank you Wordburglar for the use of Letters From Snake Eyes part 4.
Although Ryan works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John, Jason, and Ron reflect on the past and discuss the future of Digital Divination as we achieve our 150th episode
Listen Now!Watch Now!
Our heroes head to the Magenta Orbital Amusement Platform in search of an old friend.
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In this festive episode 129 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with sister duo Anya and Irina Kagan – game designers and the founders of Gifts Galore – about their Hanukkah-themed party game, Gelt Galore.
They talk about how magical childhood traditions inspired them as adults to bring new energy to holiday gatherings and how a simple homemade game — originally crafted from post-its, stickers, and family trivia — turned into a full-fledged board game.
We discuss several unique design challenges including how to compile authentic and accurate historical info for trivia questions and how to strike the right balance between questions that are easy/fun and questions that are deep or educational.
The sisters also share how they designed Gelt Galore to be accessible and inclusive by using pictures along with colors (considering colorblind accessibility), designing mechanics that work for players of all ages and mobility capabilities, the “bribes” that help them attract playtesters (like candy or pizza), the inviting game design community in Kalamazoo, Michigan, stories of little-known Hanukkah heroines, and the age-old debate of the superior latke topping. Is it sour cream or applesauce? You decide!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Anya and Irina Kagan – Guests
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ryan doesn’t know Power Rangers. Neither does Charles. But here they are, trying to talk about the Power Rangers RPG.
Listen Now! (mp3)VideoShow Notes* Essential Builds – Dynamo * Follow Ryan on Instagram and Bluesky, and check out his Budo-A-Day project. * G.I.Joe Headcast: https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith * The Universe Awaiting, Charles’ new retro toy and RPG company, is going to be at the Kitchener/Waterloo Toy show on November 23rd.
Although Ryan works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John, Jason , and Ron talk about some of the gaming related things they are thankful for.
Listen Now!Watch Now!
We love a good monster book here at Know Direction. So much so, we declared November to be Monster Month in honour of the release of Monster Core 2 for Pathfinder 2e.
In our first segment this month, Ryan picks and random monster and brainstorms an encounter in real time.
In segment 2, he interviews Joshua Birdsong, one of Monster Core 2’s lead designers.
And finally, Joshua sticks around for the fireside chat to talk about his path to Pathfinder.
Listen Now! (mp3)
With so many clues, our heroes decide to split the party!
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 128 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with game designer (publisher, art director, illustrator, and more!) Ammon Anderson about Twinkle, Twinkle, a game born from his lifelong fascination with space.
We discuss the origin of the game’s gorgeous translucent acrylic tiles, its “out of this world” space themes and expansions, and the new scoring app Allplay is developing. Ammon shares how Twinkle, Twinkle being featured at PAX Unplugged streamlined it through the pitching process, and what it’s like navigating publisher timelines and offers.
Other episode highlights include: celebrating completed projects, illustration costs, paying your kids tax-free to help your business, why he loves crafting high-quality prototypes, the importance of a well-written rulebook, and important lessons learned (like always bringing a friend to help you table at conventions).
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Ammon Anderson – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
As requested by fan and friend (frand?) David, Ryan and Charles look at the Ranger. They discuss the military and G.I. JOE origins of rangers, how they were brought into Essence20, and how Ryan solved the Ranger’s Aquaman Problem.
Listen Now! (mp3)VideoShow Notes* Essential Builds – Analog (Original Transformers PC) * Next Essential Build: A Running Man Stalker: Captain Freedom, Fireball, Buzzsaw, Dynamo, or Sub Zero * G.I.Joe Headcast: https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith * The Universe Awaiting, Charles’ new retro toy and RPG company, is going to be at the Kitchener/Waterloo Toy show on November 23rd.
Although Ryan works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John, Jason , and Ron talk about crafting Starfinder 2 adventures and some of the challenges when writing for 1st level characters.
Listen Now!Watch Now!
Surrounded by coppers, our heroes have a difficult decision to make.
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
They’ve covered Players and GMs, now Alex and James look at the real stars of Starfinder: SF2 Alien Core.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 127 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication, we chat with game designer, publisher, and trauma psychotherapist Galen McCown about how getting involved with the Syracuse game design community helped him grow as both a creator and collaborator.
We also discuss his love for solo and two-player games, his fascination with post-apocalyptic themes, and how compact “mint tin” games make great travel companions. Galen dives into his process of collaborating with artists to bring worlds to life, drawing inspiration from 90s arcade classics, and incorporating catch-up mechanics to keep players engaged.
The episode also highlights how games can serve as powerful tools for therapy and learning, the value of niche historical themes, the challenges and rewards of both pitching and publishing, how game design contests can motivate completion, and how documenting his Kickstarter journey through a blog provided transparency and insight for others in the community.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Galen McCown – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Roadblock melting as Shipwreck screams.
Young Daniel Witwicky stumping across Optimus Prime’s decaying corpse.
The unconscious manifestation of Princess Celestials anxiety.
Pumpkin Rapper.
Plastic Bags.
The Essence20 settings don’t shy away from the weird, so neither do Ryan and Charles. They’re here to help you run spooky Essence20 adventures!
Listen Now! (mp3)VideoShow NotesEssential Builds: Beetlejuice
Ryan will be attending KeyCon 42 as a Guest Of Honour
The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith on the G.I.Joe Headcast
Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although Ryan works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John, Jason , and Ron take a quick look at the newly released Starfinder 2nd Edition Alien Core and talk about their favorite monsters just in time for Halloween!
Listen Now!Watch Now!
With Pathfinder Quest on his mind, Ryan ponders some of the many ways a Pathfinder enthusiast can play in Golarion and the Lost Omens campaign setting beyond the Pathfinder roleplaying game.
Then he sits down with Pathfinder Quest designers Jason Bulmahn and Joe Pasini to discuss the creation of the game, meeting the needs of gamers, and the future of Pathfinder on tabletop.
Finally, he wraps things up by chatting with omnipresent Pathfinder fan Lucas Servideo about how Pathfinder Quest backers can handle all of those miniatures they have coming their way.
Listen Now! (mp3)
As our heroes are deciding what to do next, they are attacked by a group of shadowy assailants.
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 126 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with John D. Clair about his journey from gamifying mazes to becoming a full-time tabletop designer. He shares how setting clear goals, focusing only on games he is excited about, and reworking mechanics from games that inspire him shaped his design approach.
John shares how he reimagines mechanics from games he loves, making luck-based designs more dynamic by eliminating “nothing” turns, working with publishers—specifically creative control—rulebook FAQs, data from digital platforms like Board Game Arena, designer inspiration cycles, second editions, and the definition of a true 2v2 game.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:John D. Clair – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
As the designer of the Essence20 version of G.I. JOE’s iconic flying submarine, Ryan takes full responsibility for it being built wrong. He uses this opportunity to show off he Essence20 vehicle design rules and correct his mistake.
You can find the revised stat block below!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
VideoShow NotesVoltron Q&A with Former Social Media Manager Ryan Costello!
The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith on the G.I.Joe Headcast
S.H.A.R.C. (SUBMERSIBLE HIGH-SPEED ATTACK AND RECONNAISSANCE CRAFT)A breakthrough in submersible technology, the S.H.A.R.C. (Submersible High-speed Attack and Reconnaissance Craft)’s ability to operate in the air and underwater sets it apart as one of G.I. Joe’s most versatile vehicles.
THREAT LEVEL: 7
SIZE: Large HEALTH: 6
MOVEMENT: 60ft Aquatic, 30ft Aerial
STRENGTH: 3 SPEED: 7
SMARTS: — SOCIAL: —
TOUGHNESS: 13 EVASION: 17
WILLPOWER: — CLEVERNESS: —
SKILLS
- Alertness +d2
- Brawn +d2
- Driving +d4
- Infiltration +d4
- Intimidation +d4
- Targeting +d4
PERKS
Crew: 2 drivers, 2 passengers (Rocket Riders)
Hardpoint Weapons: Twin 30mm “Tidalwave” Cannons, Acoustic Torpedo x2 (or Rocket Riders)
Firepoints: 2 – The Rocket Riders can fire any weapon.
Defenses: Boron-Epoxy Skin (+1 plating to Toughness), Armored Cabin
Traits: Armored Cabin, Autopilot, Flying Submarine, Rocket Riders, Sensors, Vehicle
Armored Cabin: The S.H.A.R.C.’s impact-resistant gullwing canopy extends to cover the driving cabin. Attacks can’t target the vehicle’s drivers directly.
Autopilot: As long as this vehicle has one driver, it operates at full capacity. If this vehicle has a full complement of drivers, a driver can use a Free action to have the autopilot Lend Assistance on a Driving Skill Test.
Emergency Canopy Release Hatch: The S.H.A.R.C.’s crew gains an Edge on Athletics and Acrobatics Skill Tests to escape from the vehicle if it explodes.
Flying Submarine : The S.H.A.R.C. counts as both an air and sea vehicle.
Rocket Riders: The underbelly of a S.H.A.R.C. can be fitted with two Acoustic-Homing Torpedoes or two passengers, but not both or one of each.
Sensors: This vehicle can invest ranks into the Alertness skill, even without a Smarts Essence score.
Vehicle: The S.H.A.R.C. is a vehicle.
ATTACKS
Twin 30mm “Tidalwave” Cannons (Targeting): +d4 or driver’s Driving Skill, Range 40ft/160ft min 10ft (1 Sharp damage)
Alternate Effects: 2 Sharp damage (↓1), 1 Sharp damage – Multiple Targets (2, 20ft cone, ↓1)
Traits: Amphibious, Ballistic, Linked, Reload
Acoustic-Homing Torpedo (Targeting): +d6 or driver’s Driving Skill ↑1, Range 500ft/1000ft (1 Sharp damage Blast: 50ft radius)
Alternate Effects: 1 Sharp damage (↑1), 2 Sharp damage, 2 Sharp damage Blast: 20ft radius (↓1)
Traits: Accurate, Amphibious, Anti-Tank, Computerized, Consumable, Mounted, Element, Wrecker
Ram (Might): Driver’s Driving, Reach (1 Blunt damage)
Alternate Effects: Trip
Traits: Blunt, Drive-By
John shares information from Epictellers’ recent Starfinder: Afterlight media event and Jason gives his top recommendations for space fantasy games to play as you wait!
Listen Now!Watch Now!
While investigating the murder of Tier 99 Professor, our heroes make a grisly discovery.
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
Starfinder players aren’t the only ones Paizo treated to a new hardcover 2e sourcebook.
Alex and James share their thoughts on the SF2 GM Core.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 125 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with Roberto Panetta, designer of Gems of Iridescia and founder of Rock, Stone & Dice Games.
Roberto shares how his background in toy and game retail gave him the marketing and sales experience to start his own publishing company. He opens up about reigniting his creativity after feeling uninspired, collaborating with family to build the story and theme behind his first game, and learning the power of feedback from fellow designers. We also discuss common misconceptions about “pretty” games, the pros and cons of bringing your design to digital platforms, and why clear rulebooks matter.
Roberto also talks about his experience with how welcoming and supportive the tabletop design community is, and his convention recommendations for new designers entering the space including UNPUB, Protospiel, and smaller playtest-focused conventions.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Roberto Panetta – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Vehicles play a major role in G.I. JOE, Power Rangers, and, obviously, Transformers. But how do they work in Essence20? Charles, who is running a session with at least one vehicle combat soon, asks Ryan, who designed the Essence20 vehicle rules, about their intent, origin, and implementation.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Videohttps://youtu.be/ZoPaEqwneq4
Jason, John, and Ron take a quick look at the first Starfinder 2 Adventure Path: Guilt of the Grave World by Michael Bramnik.
Listen Now!Watch Now!
Our heroes are ambushed in an alley but prevail, and learn that someone or something has been tracking both the professor and themselves.
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
Battlecry!, the latest sourcebook for Pathfinder 2e, is full of amazing options, like the new Jotunborn big beefy ancestry with planar connections, the new commander and guardian classes, a leader and a protector, respectively, and a new skirmish system to put your PC in the middle of epic battles. The book’s design lead, our own Jason Keeley, joins Ryan to talk about all of that and more.
However, that’s not all that Battlecry! has to offer. Ryan spends the first segment of the episode looking at four of the new archetypes introduced in the book, and how they encapsulate different ways an RPG option can be good. Then, in the final segment of the episode, Jake from Wisdom Check, himself highly invested in the Battlecry! archetypes lately on his YouTube channel, tells Ryan what he loves about Pathfinder, and what he brings to the community.
Listen Now! (mp3)Video
In episode 124 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with game designer Serena Fadlun about creating games that increase human happiness and how she literally dreamed her career into existence when a vision of her future son inspired her to start designing.
Serena shares how she blended her work experience (from translating top-secret movie scripts to a career in psychology and mental health) into her game theme and mechanics, continuing to apply her knowledge of statistical analysis and short term research methods into playtesting.
They also discuss her decision to release a free print-and-play game that collected optional donations to support future research, a shared fear of public speaking, insights from Yale’s Science of Wellbeing course, and how interacting with social media can be challenging but rewarding in the tabletop world.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Serena Fadlun – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Follow us through the surprising evolution of the Know Direction Network’s Essence20 podcast.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Video
Jason, John, and Ron talk about the recently announced Starfinder: Afterlight video game and what they hope it includes.
Listen Now!Watch Now!
Seemingly attacked by a stealthy droid, our heroes give chase!
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
Ryan returns as host of a new era of the Know Direction podcast. After talking about what’s been going on with the podcast and what to expect from its future, he speaks with Luis Loza about the latest hardcover for the Lost Omens line, Shining Kingdoms.
Listen Now! (mp3)
The stars aligned for this one! Alex and James go cover-to-cover with the new Starfinder 2e Player Core for the 100th episode of Know Direction Beyond!
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 123 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with game designer Mitch Wallace about how a wide range of hobbies and a YouTube rabbit hole led him into game design. He shares how his curiosity sparked idea after idea, and how the original concept for Art Society evolved through rounds of feedback to find a balance that’s not too much or too little, but justtttt right.
We explore the power of the two-sentence “elevator” pitch when approaching publishers, the importance of aligning game mechanics with theme, and how playing a wide variety of games can elevate your design skills. Mitch also talks about learning to reset, rethink, and refine your ideas, being open to feedback, and staying confident in finding the right publishing fit.
We also touch on using inserts as part of the gameplay (not only to organize), multipurpose components, the suspense of waiting for your game as publishers get it to influencers and reviewers first, the joy of a convention launch, and the challenge of coming up with tiebreakers.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Mitch Wallace – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Charles’ mind has been swirling ever since he heard about Learned From The Best, a new General Perk for the Essence20 in G.I. JOE Roleplaying Game: Hawk’s Personnel Files that lets players access Perks for Threat. He challenged himself and Ryan to see just how much character customizability and storytelling potential one Perk can hold.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Video
Jason, John, and Ron talk about 3 things they really like about the Starfinder 2 GM Core.
Listen Now!Watch Now!
A strange message beckons six strangers to Striving, an expansive megaplex city on Aballon, the planet of Machines. There, they gather in a neon-lit cafe, surrounded by androids and robots, to meet an old friend. The bartender brings them refreshments—and a holographic recording from their mutual acquaintance.
“Greetings, friends! If you’re watching this, it’s because I’ve experienced an unexpected shutdown—in organic terms, I’m dead.”
Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!
Cast:
Jason Keeley – GM
Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne
Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee
Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)
John Godek – Xabi Fraglorious
Rue Dickey – Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Bough)
Tim Nightengale – Dexter Rayne
Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast
Listen Now!(mp3)Watch Now!(mp4)
In episode 122 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication, we talk with owner of MaKa Games and designer of License to Krill, Matthew Kambic, about how a pun inspired his debut game — and how he brought it to life with a custom plushie component.
Matthew shares how his engineering background, early love of games, and deep dive into research (contrary to popular belief, he’s not a marine biologist!) helped shape the project. We talk about the trials and tribulations of manufacturing, Kickstarter strategies, building crowdfunding communities through comments, and the importance of critical but constructive feedback from playtesters outside your inner circle.
We also discuss the details of the surprisingly complex manufacturing process behind the plushie (including some unusual state-specific laws!), the importance of building strong vendor relationships, and the financial realities of quantity pricing and investment.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Matthew Kambic – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ryan writes a blog about building elaborate Essence20 characters. Charles needs a new character for a G.I. JOE RPG campaign. Together, they solve crimes.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Shout Outs* Essential Builds highlights + Hiccup and Toothless + Conan O’Brien + Squirrel Girl + Super Dinosaur * G.I. Joe Headcast + The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith
Video
Jason, John, and Ron recap their Gen Con Experiences and Ron also shares some big news!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Welcome to Season 5 of Intrepid Heroes! Our new band of heroes will be taking on the Starfinder 2 adventure Murder in Metal City!
Meet our Season 5 Intrepid Heroes:
Jason Keeley, GM
Alex Speidel
Isis Wozniakowska
Jocelyn Hamilton
John Godek
Rue Dickey
Tim Nightengale
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 121 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication, J. Evan Raitt shares how an infamously frustrating game first sparked his interest in design, which eventually led to a make-your-own-game elective in college and most recently to the creation of Shifting Stones.
We talk about the theme being inspired by his fascination with traditional Mayan glyphs, how other types of designers or artists can fill creative gaps, the importance of player options in abstract games, clever touches like dual-sided reference cards, collaborating closely with fast-paced publishers, and how casual conversations can turn connections in the industry into real opportunities.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:J. Evan Raitt – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Logan Bonner and Jason Keeley take us on a tour of the latest Pathfinder 2e hardcover, Battlecry, and how it leads into the upcoming Pathfinder adventure path, The Hellfire Crisis.
Listen Now! (mp3)From the Gen Con 2025 Starfinder Launch Panel, shared with permission.
Jenny Jarzabski, Mike Kimmel, Dustin Knight, Aras Yazgan, and Jessica Catalan (with special appearance by Thurston Hillman) of Paizo’s Starfinder team cracks open the pages of Starfinder 2e for reveals and more.
Listen Now! (mp3)From the Gen Con 2025 Starfinder Launch Panel, shared with permission.
Multiple Essence20 Core Rulebooks boldly call Story Points “The Great Equalizer”.
Ryan and Charles look at how this isn’t an exaggeration, and point out how this meta narrative control consumable can elevate the stories of your G.I. JOE, My Little Pony, Power Rangers, Transformers, and Welcome To Night Vale campaigns.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Shout OutsHawk’s Personnel Files PDF now available to all
One week left to back G.I. JOE Risk
Award-Winning & Nominated Tabletop RPGs presented by ENNIES Tabletop RPG Awards
Video
Starfinder designer Dustin Knight joins Alex and James as Starfinder 2e launched into the ether, becoming one with the cosmos.
Recorded live on Twitch.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes come face-to0-face with the creature causing all the problems on Absalom Station. Can they earn the victory and escape the ghost levels?
Listen Now!(mp3)
Starfinder Creative Manager Jenny Jarzabski join Jason, John, and Ron to talk about all the cool Starfinder 2nd Edition things going on at Gen Con for today’s Starfinder 2 release!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 120 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Pete Petrusha of Imagining Games about adapting the Eisner award-winning Image comic series, CHEW, into a Forged in the Dark foodie crime drama TTRPG!
They discuss several delicious topics including the concept of meeting needs and answering questions with your game designs (what’s something I can play in the hallway with my friends at PAX right now?), obtaining the rights to use ALL the art from the entirety of the comic, incorporating an IP into an RPG – in this case, adapting and building within a pre-existing RPG system to make unique mechanics for the theme – winning an ENNIE award, and more.
So take a breather from our clucked up world for a second and listen to some fantastic food for thought!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Pete Petrusha – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ryan and Charles go through the contents and development of the latest Essence20 sourcebook for the G.I. JOE Roleplaying Game: Hawk’s Personnel Files. Anyone who preordered the physical copy from Renegade Game Studios can currently download the PDF.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Jason, John, and Ron are all going to Gen Con next week! They share what they will be busy doing as well as what they look forward to the most!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Killer bees! A gross gravid mound! Charity station meltdown! It all comes to a head in the penultimate episode of the season!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 119 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Ann Journey about what inspired her to create a game about going back in time to see the dinosaurs, rather than bringing them here to the modern day and age. (Because that never goes well!)
They talk about revisiting and combining concepts and mechanics from previous game designs to make something new, the value of friendly local game stores and in-person playtesting groups, bringing a developer on board (more brains are better than one), gamer love for upgraded components, and the importance of great graphic design when it comes to multi-use components.
They also take a look at how Crustaceous Rails ended up being a completely local production, the trials and tribulations of producing colored miniatures, and the team’s use of marketing to tackle hidden challenges that surfaced after launch – in this case creating a colorful game about dinosaurs that people started to assume was for kids at a first glance.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Ann Journey – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Carlos (you know, the game dev?) Cabrera, the project manager of Renegade Game Studios’ Welcome To Night Vale RPG joins Ryan to talk about the development of the project, why Essence20 was the right system to bring the cult and occult radio drama to the tabletop, and how the new cross-compatible options can influence other Essence20 settings.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John and Ron talk about the top Science Fiction/Fantasy properties that they would like to see converted to the Starfinder 2e system. Surprise, there is no overlap between their lists!
Also, a much needed update on Ron’s new chickens!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Alex and James talk Starfinder 2e playtest adventures and GMing Starfinder 2e.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes encounter some informative hespers who warn them of the beast that awaits!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 118 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Pat Marino, game developer and Director of Hobby Games for The Op about capturing the excitement of the Cuphead video game in a unique tabletop experience that resonated with existing fans and the board game community.
They explore what it takes to work with licensed IPs including navigating the approval process, scouting at licensing expos, and creating contract terms and timelines. Pat also breaks down the importance of designing for different player types (completionists, story-driven players, challenge-seekers, etc.), and how offering multiple gameplay options can make a game more accessible and enjoyable for everyone at the table.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Pat Marino – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ryan and Charles talk about how the new Transformers Roleplaying Game Transformers ONE Sourcebook can transform your Essence20 game.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Ron is off this week. John and Jason talk about some of the games released for Free RPG day, including Starfinder 2nd Edition’s Battle for Novarush!
Listen Now!
Our heroes meet adventurers who were pulled in from the Plane of Wood!
Listen Now!(mp3)
Alex and James crack open the first Starfinder 2e hardcover, and the first Starfinder hardcover since Mechageddon, the Starfinder Galaxy Guide.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 117 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with game designer Simon Weinberg about his journey from reviewing terrible games to realizing just how tough it is to make good ones. He shares lessons from navigating the publishing world like understanding a company’s catalog before pitching, being patient during the long evaluation process, and the importance of building friendly, professional relationships with publishers.
They also discuss waking up from dreams of complete game ideas, defining your goal as a designer, how card and dice games are easiest to iterate (and recruit playtesters for), writing wacky designer diaries, bribing dragons, and that yes – game design is in fact, a real job!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Simon Weinberg – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ryan and Charles talk about the Essence20 panels and announcements at RenegadeCon 2025.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
With just 8 weeks left until the release of Starfinder 2, RPG freelance author John Godek, Paizo Senior Game Designer Jason Keeley, and Dungeon & Dragons Designer Ron Lundeen discuss what Starfinder 1 adventures to play now!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Our heroes head down to Charity Substation to prevent a reactor meltdown and come face-to-face with an transdimensional maw!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 116 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with game designer Leonie Grundler about what inspired her nature-themed tableau builder, Biome.They discuss how inspiration can come from the worst places – like being laid off from a tech startup and catching COVID – how binge-playing Wingspan sparked the idea for the game, and tough design questions like: Should games aim for perfect balance, or can a few spicy, overpowered cards keep things interesting? They also explore the practical side of choosing to self-publish, finding playtesters in your own backyard, launching Lioness Games, sourcing manufacturers, and being your game’s greatest advocate.Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Cameron Ring – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ryan already convinced Charles that the My Little Pony Roleplaying Game Core Rulebook is a great buy for any Essence20 players. Now he explains why MLP CRB Chapter 10: Conflicts is required reading for every Essence20 Game Master.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John, Ron, and Jason talk about all the cool Starfinder 2nd Edition news that was announced at PaizoCon this past weekend!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Our heroes crash a “Cultist PTA” meeting and run afoul of a vampiric academic!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 115 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with game designer and co-founder of Lost Boy Entertainment, Cameron Ring, covering everything from the value of short form video and social media marketing in the tabletop industry, to the importance of making games you find fun.
Danielle and Cameron talk about Lost Boy Entertainment’s roots as a family business, leaning into the inspiration of classic game mechanics to develop something new, having fun with wacky game themes (Piles! makes laundry fun!), teaching playtesters gaming vocabulary, and bribing your friends and family with food and drinks to test your games.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Cameron Ring – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
The Essence20 roleplaying system turned 3 years old this year (technically). Ryan tells Charles about the wild early days of how the system came to be.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John, Ron, and Jason give an overview of Paizo’s latest release for Starfinder 2nd Edition – the Galaxy Guide!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
The Starfinder 2e drought is over, Alex and James have new content to cover! They share their thoughts on the mechanic and technomancer classes from the Tech Class Playtest.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes safely subdue a grossly mutated Spike and bring the squox and her kits back to their home.
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 114 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Ace Ellett, half of Bluefish Games – the company he and his wife Anna founded as a result of their love for escape rooms and puzzles.
Danielle and Ace talk about what went into the fictional world of Hincksville and the character Bluefish created as a mechanism to drive their puzzle/mystery series. They discuss how to playtest escape room games, the art of hiding clues in plain sight, the importance of including a balance of different puzzles to keep everyone playing entertained, how to choose materials wisely (and cost effectively), and what makes the perfect “at-home puzzle experience”.
The Case of the Curiously Correct Blueprints is an audiobook mystery, so they also talk about the different challenges to consider that were different when compared to designing a “standard” escape puzzle – although, there are no rules when it comes to escape rooms!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Ace Ellett – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ryan is joined by new Upshift cohost Charles Cushman in an episode intended to establish his credentials, but quickly turns into two hours of fond memories of and accomplishments within G.I.JOE from the last 25 years.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John and Jason talk about the new Mechanic and Technomancer classes for Starfinder 2e that were released this week for the Tech Class Playtest!
Listen Now!
Our heroes search for Spike the missing squox, and find something very unexpected.
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 113 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Nicole Amato about transitioning into tabletop design after starting out as a video game journalist, small local game jams leading to big opportunities and how people choosing to use your innovative game mechanic in their prototype is flattering!
They also chat about the “politics” of popular (and extinct) video game conventions and the industry crossover there as well as their hack of using magic recording pens to help take notes. Listen to the rise of the “2-player renaissance” and the age-old publish vs. crowdfund conundrum on this episode!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Nicole Amato – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Ron, and Jason talk about what some of the upcoming releases they expect to be announced for SF2 so they have more to talk about!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Our heroes negotiate with some hungry goblins for the return of stolen loot – what could go wrong?
Listen Now!(mp3)
After the recent Paizo Live stream with the Starfinder staff, Alex and James cover a lot of little bits of news about Starfinder 2e.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 112 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Bug Boll about their first published solo design in the RPG space, Sentai & Sensibility! A new, niche-themed adventure from 9th Level Games where the unique – but surprisingly similar – worlds of Super Sentai and Jane Austen collide! They talk about the process of writing an RPG, adapting an existing rule system for a new theme, the importance of choosing to be whatever color Power Ranger you want, consulting experts on topics you are not familiar with, and injecting your own interests into game design – RPGs are not always about dragons in space folks!
And of course, Bug provides expert advice to new designers looking to create their own RPGs and stories.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Bug Boll – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Ron, and Jason talk about about what games they are playing now as they wait for Starfinder 2nd Edition.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Our heroes encounter a deadly moonwalking robot as they find someone has beat them to the vault!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 111 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with TAM about his game, Floristry, which is the first release by UP Games – a new publishing company in the tabletop space that he is a co-founder of!
Danielle and TAM talk about how game design has always been a passion (growing up without easy access to games led to inventing games to share with family and friends), the rise of 2-player date/cafe games, important things to consider when incorporating an app into your game, and distributing games in other languages.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:TAM – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Esther is here with a quick update about the Know Direction Network’s flagship podcast.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John, Ron, and Jason talk about about conventions, including those they’ll be attending starting this weekend!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Based on what’s been said in Paizo Live streams with the Starfinder 2e staff, Alex and James discuss what we know and what they’d like to see out of the new edition’s first releases.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes battle laser turrets and robots as they try to get to the vault!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 110 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication, your friendly neighborhood editor, Amanda Rivera, takes over as host once again as we recap the fifth season and catch up with Danielle! They talk about this season’s guests, their games, and reflect on some of the amazing advice they shared for new and aspiring game designers.
Danielle talks about her upcoming games, the many prototypes she is working on, several exciting nominations, awards, and special guest appearances – oh my!
Listen Now! (mp3)Other interesting highlights from the season five recap:
- Games as inclusive, accessible, approachable, and engaging experiences!
- Where IS the best place to display an oversized convention special guest sign with your name on it?
- Tabletop Gaymers 10 Year Anniversary!
- Danielle’s new blog “Missing Pieces” for the Tabletop Game Designers Association.
- And, a Greek mythology lesson from Danielle!
Featuring:Danielle Reynolds – Guest
Amanda Rivera – Guest Host
John, Ron, and Jason talk about the recently announced Lost Odyssey: Godfall actual play along with what a top talent Starfinder 2E actual play might look like.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Our heroes visit Abadar Corp Bank Golden Vault Neighborhood Branch #9 to make a withdrawal.
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 109 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Ian Clayman about collaborating with the game design team at Exploding Kittens – and an awesome surprise guest – to create a new game based on the longest running reality TV show, Survivor.
Ian dives into his unique approach for working on this well-known IP, the Exploding Kittens game development process, and how he got his foot in the game industry door by networking and snagging an internship at Exploding Kittens.
Survey says, both show super fans and Exploding Kittens enthusiasts agree that Survivor: The Tribe Has Spoken feels like the real deal – minus the lack of navigating island obstacle courses, weathering storms, and battling bugs!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Ian Clayman – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Ron, and Jason talk about the latest Starfinder 2nd edition news released by Paizo last week.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 108 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication, we chat with Connie Vogelmann about her design Apiary. What started as her journey as a playtester for Stonemaier Games, quickly dominoed into an invitation to a designer day where she showcased Apiary and ultimately led to it being signed. Connie shares the lessons she learned along the way, including the tools she used for prototyping and how tweaking the theme to “bees in space” helped refine the game’s mechanics.
Connie and Danielle discuss other topics including the advantages of working with large publishers with access to blind playtest audiences, the importance of filtering playtester feedback, the impact of online feedback (including the good, the bad, and the memes), and the lessons she’s learned about rapid prototyping, efficiency, and keeping your sanity through the many iterations of game design.
And if you were wondering, yes, she actually did do beekeeping for a bit!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Connie Vogelmann – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Alex and James share their thoughts on the latest revisions to the Starfinder 2e playtest rules.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John, Ron, and Jason talk about crafting encounters for Starfinder 2nd Edition.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 107 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with David Gordon about his co-design Monkey Palace, the new LEGO game! Learn about how he and TAM took a design brief given to them and designed an engine building game about building temples to upgrade your engine to earn banana points. Also, hear about the constraints that come with designing under NDAs on this and other games.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:David Gordon – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Ron, and Jason talk about crafting monsters for Starfinder 2nd Edition.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 106 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Jason Slingerland about his co-design Tír na nÓg. When Jason started designing in 2012 there weren’t many resources for designers so he started the Building the Game podcast with a friend. He used the podcast to help himself and other designers learn more about games, the industry and design. Through the years Jason gained experience and had his 9th game Tír na nÓg released with Grand Gamers Guild. The game used a straddle draft mechanic mixed with different scoring mechanics to form a great entry-level game. It was used by the publisher to test Gamefound’s crowdfunding platform and had a decent first print run but it sold out quickly thanks to reviewers which caused them to quickly put a second print run onto Kickstarter with extra content!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Jason Slingerland – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Alex and James recount their experiences running and playing in Starfinder 2e playtest sessions.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John, Ron, and Jason talk about some of the latest news coming out about Starfinder 2nd Edition.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Our heroes encounter dangerous creatures and ghost couriers as they travel the catwalks of the ghost levels.
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 105 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Bernie Lin and Brendan Kendrick about their first design Omicron Protocol, a skirmish miniatures game designed to help bring more people to the love of miniatures. They were inspired by a convention panel to self-publish knowing they wanted to create an “intra-apocalyptic”, cyberpunk-themed world for 1-4 players. Through designing they added a co-operative mode for the game that helped them teach the game to players new to miniatures games at conventions. Some of their favorite moments were hearing how nice it was to see Asian miniatures and females with different body types. They wanted all different kinds of players to be able to see themselves in the game.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Bernie Lin – Guest
Brendan Kendrick – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Transformers historian and super fan Jim Sorenson tells Ryan about joining the Essence20 writing team on Enigma of Combination and Technorganic Secrets.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John and Jason stray off topic with the closing of the year and talk about their holiday traditions.
Listen Now!
Our heroes are inundated with holographic ads that do more than try to sell products!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 104 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Mads Fløe about their co-design Shake that City. The draw of the game was a device that randomized how to drop out 9 different cubes in a 3×3 grid. These cubes worked to help you decide what tiles you could draft and place into your city. Figuring out how to make the machine out of cardboard and rubber bands made manufacturing so much easier to get the game signed and made. We talk about how he worked in co-designing the game and how you can promote yourself as a freelance designer.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Mads Fløe – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Alex takes James, Randal, and Rob through a Thanksgiving one shot of the Starfinder Second Edition playtest.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John and Ron talk about bringing Pathfinder 2e characters into a Starfinder 2e adventure.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 103 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Nick Bentley on how he redesigned Underdog Game’s Trekking the World and why they decided to call it a second edition versus a new name. Learn what changes were made to make the game both more streamlined and more gamery. How they chose to keep some graphic design choices while changing others. See what your thoughts are on if they decided correctly on the naming choice!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Nick Bentley – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about Thanksgiving Plans, Dogs, and Monstrous Cybernetic Turkeys!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 102 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Mike Danovich about his RPG system created to partner with different events and businesses in the Chicago area including Revolution Brewery. In that partnership he got to design character sheets for the different hops that are featured on their Hero IPA variety packs as well as an RPG that was given out at the ComicCon known as C2E2. Learn how Mike dealt with these quick timelines and designing with these partners in mind!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Featuring:
Mike Danovich – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about Starfinder Theme Parks.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Our heroes find themselves in a plummeting elevator as we begin the Starfinder 2 Playtest Adventure, A Cosmic Birthday.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Alex takes James, Ryan, and Loren through a One Shot At Shelly’s, and the Starfinder Second Edition playtest.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 101 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Kirsten Lunde about Ovation, a game-school inspired design that originated from her wanting to teach her son about classical music but wasn’t able to find a game themed that way at the time. Since then, she worked to be as inclusive in the creation of the game as she could be as both the designer and publisher. From making sure to include ethnic and gender diversity in the composers you were playing as to hiring the team of artists and graphic designers that worked on the project. She even has a story of playtesting with a color blind playtester in the hope of helping make the game as inclusive as it could be! Listen to all the people that helped her along the way. A rising tide lifts all boats!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Featuring:
Kirsten Lunde – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about spooky stuff in Starfinder.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 100 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we celebrate the 100th episode with Phil Walker-Harding talking about 10 years of Sushi Go! From his initial self-imposed design challenge of making a simple set collection game to the concept of “panning for gold” when trying to create a simplistic game. We discuss what we as designers can do to make games more accessible. Also, learning and accepting what kind of designer you are is a great thing. To be a “good designer” doesn’t mean being able to design a 90 minute Euro game. You can create a silly small game and be equally as talented.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Phil Walker-Harding – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about monsters in the Starfinder 2nd edition playtest.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In our penultimate episode, the scoundrels take partial control of the Hutt frigate, but now must deal with a powerful Sith Lord!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 99 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Dan Cassar about his design Arboretum. Dan talks about how you’re building paths of trees while balancing the colors remaining in your hand in order to score. Using the layout of the final path of cards gave the feeling of an arboretum. We talk about themes and how they can add to a design. Plus, the comparisons between his first and second editions of the game
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Dan Cassar – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about some of the differences between Starfinder 1st edition and the Starfinder 2nd edition playtest.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his ohttp://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/DD/DD118.mp3pinions are his own.
Ryan and Randal join Alex and James to roll up their first Starfinder Second Edition playtest characters for Alex’s upcoming one-shots.
Listen Now! (mp3)
The crew infiltrate a fancy party posing as roadies, only to find themselves caught in a trap on a Hutt frigate!
Listen Now!(mp3)
…
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
In episode 98 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Jacob Jaskov about his design Fog of Love. In the game you play as a fictional couple meeting, falling in love and trying to make the relationship work with each player having their own objectives they want to satisfy while playing the game. Jacob designed the game for his partner at the time hoping to get them into games and to create a unique experience for the players. The gameplay in many ways mirrors the ups and downs of his personal life at the time of designing and producing the game.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Jacob Jaskov – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John and Ron talk about the various tools available for easily building Starfinder 2e Playtest characters.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
The crew travels to a swamp planet and faces a deadly oggdo bogdo as they seek to destroy an evil kyber crystal.
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 97 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Jason Lautenschleger and Barry McLaughlin about their design Game Night in a Can. Jason and Barry discuss what it means to be an “inventortainer”. How their in-person game shows turned into their Game Night in a Can product that has now had multiple versions both self published and licensed by Goliath. We also get to hear how well they do at their game Frumpy Bumpers! Experience their game by listening to this episode!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Jason Lautenschleger – Guest
Barry McLaughlin – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ron gives a detailed report about this year’s GenCon and all the cool stuff he saw!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Alex and James give their gut reactions to the Starfinder Second Edition playtest rulebook.
Listen Now! (mp3)
The crew of the Intrepid make their way to a lost Jedi city and must face the wrath of the dead!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 96 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Ellie Dix about her design, A Midsummer Night’s Fayre, published by Gamewright. The mechanics were inspired by fairground games. As a kid into adulthood she would gameafy trips and average activities. In her game you play ten mini games. You roll and choose dice while using fairy mischief cards to manipulate the dice to win the game. Her biggest challenge was accepting the loss of the Helter skelter dice tower. They adapted it through development into what you now see on the inside of the box lid.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Ellie Dix – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Jason and John talk about customizing pre-written adventures to better fit the players in your party.
Listen Now!
The scoundrels narrowly escape a dangerous foe, only to have him return in a nightmarish way!
Listen Now!(mp3)
Associate Producer of RPGs at Renegade Game Studios and MC of Worlds Collide: The Pony Puzzle, Ben Heisler, joins Ryan to share the highlights of Gen Con 2024 for Essence20.
Those highlights include the biggest Welcome To Night Vale RPG news since it was announced. And yes, it is run on Essence20! For more information, check out these Glass Cannon Network videos:
Welcome to Night Vale Character Creation
Welcome to Night Vale RPG One-Shot
Welcome to Night Vale RPG Interview with designer Carlos Cabrera
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
In episode 95 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Carol Mertz about multi-disciplinary designing. She starts with the concept before deciding on the form (tabletop, video game, robotic couch, etc.). The focus is on the experience then she builds the medium around it. In the case of Exploding Kittens: Good Vs. Evil she took the tension from the famous wine/poison scene in Princess Bride and injected it into the Exploding Kittens card game as well as taking pieces from the television show to make the gameplay more thematic. Learn the differences between a designer and a developer and how working at Exploding Kittens was a great game development exercise in this episode!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Carol Mertz – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Jason and John talk about the Starfinder 2e Playtest announcements made at GenCon!
Listen Now!Apologies in advance for my poor audio – I am in the process of moving and my gear wasn’t set up properly – John
Alex and James line up some hot, hotter, and infernal wings for this hot tribute to the complete first edition of Starfinder.
Listen Now! (mp3)
The scoundrels find an immense imperial cache along with an artifact that draws a dangerous foe!
Listen Now!(mp3)
With My Little Pony playing a major part in The Pony Puzzle at this weekend’s Gen Con, and the My Little Pony Roleplaying Game Core Rulebook up for an ENnie award later today, Ryan decided to take a closer look at why and how to crossover My Little Pony content into other Essence20 settings.
Note: I might reupload this later. A chunk of audio is missing (it jumps from halfway through the Why to the start of the How). I need to investigate whether there was a glitch in the uploading that cut out a chunk or if I accidentally deleted that audio from the file.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the host works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Esther and Navaar explore the latest Pathfinder Remaster setting hardcover, Pathfinder Howl of the Wild.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 94 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Phil Gross about his design ContraBanter, a Word-Smuggling game where you’ll work as a team to sneak secret words into a conversation! Phil talks about his design breakthroughs in the game like making the players work on teams versus fully competitive. And how there seems to be something in the Syracuse water as he’s worked to design around some impressive designers such as Alan Moon.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Phil Gross – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about some of the Sci-Fi games being released at GenCon, including Starfinder 2nd Edition Playtest.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
There’s always a catch! Our scoundrels are double-crossed and end up stuck between a rock and a hard place.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Stuck in traffic due to the rain, Ryan decides to record a podcast about Duke, and how Skybound has him turning around on his long held opinion that there’s always a better choice than Duke.
But for real, you can hear the rain, his turn signal, and his GPS throughout the episode. If you find that distracting, you won’t miss much missing this one.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
In episode 93 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Julie Chen about her personality type social deduction game inspired by the Myers Briggs test and CLUE. We focus on how learning more about ourselves helped us both in life and in our designing process. She aimed to find a way to help players learn more about the assumptions we make in different situations like “would an introvert or extrovert be more likely to go to a coffee shop?” by building a social deduction game around these choices we’d make depending on the personality types we were given. Learn more about the different types of personalities by playing Emotional Intelligence!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Julie Chen – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about Ennie Nominations, GenCon, and the future of Intrepid Heroes!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Second Contact, the Free RPG Day 2024 Starfinder offering, is the first published material for Starfinder 2e. Alex and James dive into it to see what it tells them to expect in the future.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Our scoundrels run afoul of an imperial star destroyer and find they have mynocks!
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 92 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Joseph Brower, one of the designers of Mondrian: Color in Motion. This Ion Award winning design brought manufacturing challenges when they had to figure out what materials made the cards stop sliding during gameplay. Learn how they created an abstract game inspired by the Dutch painter Piet Mondrian’s art.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Joseph Brower – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about Paizo’s offerings for Free RPG day, including The Great Toy Heist written by Jason Keeley for Pathfinder 2e, and Second Contact for Starfinder 2nd Edition!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 91 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Alex Flagg about Crafty Games’ latest release Buru. Learn how a publisher was able to inject more of the theme into a midweight euro-style game using a TTRPG background and cultural consultants.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Alex Flagg – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about some of their favorite and most memorable conventions.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
The crew learn more about Zeke’s backstory as they are forced to take a side mission to settle a debt.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Alex and James look at the Starfinder news out of PaizoCon 2024, which saw a mix of firsts for 2e and finals for 1e.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 90 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication Danielle talks with Joel Sparks about his cat based RPG titled Catthulhu. Joel moved away from a D20 system to try and create a more accessible game for players who haven’t played many RPGs by leaning into the story telling more than the math. Players take on the roles of cats in this one shot RPG. Listen to him discuss designing/publishing a book for the first printing of the game then the struggles he went through when he added extra things like dice into the manufacturing of the game in future printings.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Joel Sparks – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Esther and Navaar crack open the latest Pathfinder setting hardcover, Pathfinder Lost Omens: Tian Xia World Guide for the first time, but definitely not the last time.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John, Jason, and Ron talk about some of the new Starfinder 2 information revealed at PaizoCon as well as Jason’s playtest of the new Battlecry! classes.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Without a plan, the scoundrels try to wing it and might end up getting their ship blown up!
Listen Now!(mp3)
Renegade crammed a lot of Essence20 news into the four weeks since the last episode of Upshift, and Ryan’s here to go over it with you.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
In episode 89 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Seppy Yoon about his design Conquest Princess: Fashion is Power. This crisis management game was inspired by Sailor Moon and Star Trek. Seppy took his love for strong women like Wonder Woman and created a game that included characters that were trans, non-binary and female. As a queer/minority/vet owned company he found it very important to feature these playable characters but had to deal with hate groups during his Kickstarter campaign. Learn how he brought this game to life after 9 years of working on it and how he dealt with online trolls in this first episode of the fifth season!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Seppy Yoon – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John, Jason, and Ron talk about how to make player downtime activities in Starfinder and other RPGs more meaningful and fun.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 88 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication Amanda Rivera takes over as the host as she helps recap the fourth season with Danielle. They talk about past guests and their games. Speaking about matching mechanics with IPs and how brands can be split between many different publishers. Danielle talks about her upcoming games Caution Signs and Secret Clue: Cuisines as well as her new job title of Project Director of Wacky Wizard Games and how she’s grown as a designer by starting to do inventor relations. Learning to kill off her designs faster by looking at them from that perspective has helped her grow over the past few months. Not to mention she was nominated for the Play Creators Rising Star Award this year!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Danielle Reynolds – Guest
Amanda Rivera – Host
Jenny Jarzabsk joins Alex and James to look high and wide at Starfinder 1e’s swan song release, the Mechageddon! hardcover Adventure Path.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John, Jason, and Ron talk about issues surrounding generative AI Gamemasters.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Esther and Navaar continue their Pathfinder Remaster coverage with an in depth review of thenew take on the 2e Bestiary, Monster Core.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 87 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Sen-Foong Lim on his comicbook IP game Mind MGMT. A game that grows with the players in strategy as well as difficulty. One player controls Mind MGMT and must scour the city for new recruits. They move around on a secret map, trying to visit locations that match one of their three randomly drawn feature cards. They can also use their four Immortals to protect locations from being exposed. Listen to Sen compare working with a creator’s IP versus a company like Viacom or Warner Brothers. He unboxes how they worked with the comic creator to expand the Mind MGMT world versus slapping the IP on a pre-existing design.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Sen-Foong Lim – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
After sharing all he knows about Essence20, former Renegade developer Jason Keeley moves on to other projects. But not before saying goodbye.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John, Jason, and Ron talk about using player driven narratives in Pathfinder, Starfinder, D&D, and Scum and Villainy.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
The crew takes a side trek as Jason Keeley GMs Scum and Villainy for a new group of Intrepid Scoundrels!
Listen Now!(mp3)
Alex and James look at what the Field Test version of the Envoy means for Starfinder 2e.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John, Jason, and Ron talk about session zero of their upcoming Scum and Villainy campaign as well as the session zero panel Ron participated in at Norwescon.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Esther and Navaar chat with Dr. Emily Friedman, an Associate Professor of English at Auburn University, writer for Polygon, and senior scholars in the field of creating things outside of mass commercial capitalism. That includes Actual Play podcasts.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 86 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with David Abelson about his Mensa award winning game Gartenbau published by 25th Century Games. Initially the game started as a color theory tile placement game but grew into a three-layer tile stacking game of beautifully arranged flowers that gain prestige using a rondel drafting mechanism. Learn how this design grew in development!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:David Abelson – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
In the climactic conclusion of the Devastation Ark adventure path, our heroes defeat the evil Siv AI core and now look forward to their lives after adventuring.
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Ryan shares his thoughts and Jason shares his experiences as the developer working on Transformers Roleplaying Game Decepticon Directive.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John, Jason, and Ron, talk about anti-heroes, evil campaigns, and power washing!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 85 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Jim Fitzpatrick about his game Mission to Planet Hexx. Inspired by a love of SyFy he designed a hex tile game about exploring space with different abilities triggered by moving your ship around the tiles. He learned through playtesting how to create thematic ties between the flavor text and mechanics of the tiles as well as how to refine his design.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Jim Fitzpatrick – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes battle their way closer to the Siv AI core.
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Ryan and Jason go over the Essence20 products revealed at the most recent Renegade Con.
Reveals* G.I. JOE Roleplaying Game Beginner Box: Boot Camp + A 32-page Playing the Game booklet + A 26-page first adventure (Snake Pit) + A 26-page second adventure (Operation Cold Iron Mission 1: Slithering About) + 8 pre-generated characters - Steeler - Firewall - Bullet-Proof - Dusty - Taurus - Agent Helix - Sherlock - 8? + A set of G.I. JOE dice - Might be the same, although the set blue in the image looks a little lighter. + A GM Screen - 3-panel instead of 4 * Transformers Roleplaying Game Beginner Box: Roll Out + A 32-page Playing the Game booklet + A 28-page first adventure (Troubled Waters) + A 32-page second adventure (The Time Is Now Chapter 1: Roll Out) + 8 pre-generated characters - Gauge - Smokescreen - Novastar - Hound - Anode - Springer - Aileron - Beachcomer + A set of Transformers dice - Again, might be the same, might be different + A GM Screen - 3-panel instead of 4 * Quartermaster’s Guide to Gear Sourcebook + 16 new weapons from G.I. JOE’s history, a new armor type, 40 upgrades, and 18 new vehicles! + A new Focus for each Role in the G.I. JOE Roleplaying Game, from the Drone Pilot for Infantry to the Neutralizer for Technicians! + 3 new Origins and 8 new Influences, from the Junker to the Futurist, for gear-centric characters. + Guidance for historical, retrofuture, and cyberpunk settings allows GMs to explore the past and future of technology on the battlefield. + Ready-to-use G.I. JOE and COBRA bases, including the COBRA Terror Dromes and the U.S.S. Flagg aircraft carrier. * Intercontinental Adventures: Factions in Action Vol. 2 + In-depth looks at the history of the Arashikage, Dreadnoks, and Oktober Guard, how these independent factions impact G.I. JOE and COBRA, and how to run campaigns partially or entirely dedicated to the Arashikage and Dreadnoks! + Contact and Threat stat blocks for key members of each faction, including multiple versions of the long-awaited Storm Shadow! + Contact and Threat stat blocks for international characters, like G.I. JOE’s Canadian member, Back-Stop, Australian member Skymate, and Cuban member Snow Storm! + New Factions, Origins, Influences, and Focus options! + 40 new General Perks, 17 new gear and upgrades, 11 new vehicles, and more! * Beneath the Helmet + Player and Game Master Content along with story ideas for teenagers with attitude, not merely Power Rangers + Dino Charge and Dino Thunder Rangers, their Zords and equipment, and adversaries + New player options (Aqua, Graphite, Dark Ranger role options) + Discover the stories between adventures with new downtime rules, detailing your home base, and creating your own team. + Real world threats to face when the mask comes off + Challenge legendary villains Mesogog, Sledge, and Lord Arcanon along with their henchmen and minions!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Alex and James share their thoughts on the Scoured Stars Starfinder adventure path.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John, Ron, and newly named Paizo Senior Game Designer Jason talk about the differences between Game Developers and Game Designers.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
Esther and Navaar invite the cast of Goblets and Gays to discuss making and making it with an actual play podcast.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 84 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Glenn Cotter about his design Mischief, formerly Fickle. Learn how he got the game signed and printed first with Bard Games. Then what happened when he received the rights back and got the game re-signed with Smirk & Dagger as Mischief. Listen as he talks through the design changes made in between printings. How the initial bones of the game stayed the same while player count, fairy cards, illustrations and other pieces were tweaked through development.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Glenn Cotter – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes involuntarily undergo Siv conditioning that results in a strange kind of three body problem!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
John and Ron talk about challenges and strategies for switching to a new TTRPG.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 83 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Doug Levandowski and Yeonsoo Julian Kim about their co-design Home. Home is an RPG that focuses more on storytelling than dice rolling thanks to Tarot cards that help every player take turns as the “Director” of their scary story. With different modules in the RPG no game will be the same. The game started as Doug’s attempt to make a game about his childhood home but with Julie’s help the game grew into what it is today.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Doug Levandowski – Guest
Yeonsoo Julian Kim – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes receive a limited time offer for saving the galaxy from the Siv!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Jason, John and Ron talk about the recently announced Starfinder 2 Playtest Adventures!
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 82 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Fertessa Allyse and Mondo Davis about their party game Mansplaining. Learn not only what the term “mansplaining” means but also, learn how they designed a game made not to offend but allow players to feel what it is to have someone over-explain a subject in a humorous way. Learn how they dealt with assumptions made due to the title of the game and how they marketed to help with that problem.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Fertessa Allyse – Guest
Mondo Davis – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes fight through an ancient Siv museum and learn enough to achieve 20th level!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Jason, John and Ron talk about building a digital tabletop, tools you can use to build NPCs and monsters, as well as how you might incorporate Paizo adventures into your home campaign.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast and his opinions are his own.
In episode 81 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Whitney Loraine the designer of Skybound’s Pirate Tails game. Her inspiration came from the push-you-luck set collection mechanics of Biblios. She took what she liked most from that game and created her own game. Listen to her start as a new designer. How going to a convention allowed her to network and meet publishers nice enough to introduce her to Skybound where she now has two signed games!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Whitney Loraine – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
With encouragement from Simon, our heroes are able to obtain some critical star charts with 50% less slaughter!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
After months of talking about getting to the 100th episode, John and Ron ruminate on the past and look to the future of Digital Divination.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast, and his opinions are his own.
In episode 80 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with George Li about his game Misconceptions. His publishing company Rabble was approached by Bud Light Seltzer to create Misconceptions, a game based on debunking other common, but wrong, beliefs. Learn how they worked with Bud Light’s marketing team to design and publish a game in record time using a non-gaming manufacturer in the United States in order to meet the deadlines set by Bud Light.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:George Li – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes must battle a massive intelligent fungus!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
With Jason away, Ryan shares the multitude of G.I. JOE packages he received over the holidays. Also, he talks a lot about Classified Dreadnoks, for some reason.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John chatted with game designer and Evil Genius Games Organized Play Manager Michael Bramnik
Listen Now!(mp3)
Join a selection of Know Direction staff, old and new, for the latest installment of the network’s holiday tradition.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Jason, John, and Ron discuss the year that was and make some gaming resolutions for the coming year.
Listen Now!Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
In episode 79 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Jeremy Posner and Ken Gruhl about their co-design Mantis published by Exploding Kittens. They talk about how they found each other as co-designers and the many games that have spawned from the partnership. How a failed design of Ken’s inspired Jeremy to adapt the idea into what became Mantis. Listen to how this design team took an old idea and gave it life in a new form! Plus, how they adapted the game into a kid’s version called Best Worst Ice Cream for Exploding Kittens’ new line of Kitten Games.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Jeremy Posner – Guest
Ken Gruhl – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Part of the Intrepid Heroes crew gather to wrap-up the year and look forward to what’s coming down the road.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Ryan and Jason end the year bantering about the media they’ve been consuming lately. It was supposed to be about all the media they consumed in 2023, but both hosts drew blanks when they went to outline the episode.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Esther and Navaar look back on 2023 and the banner but tumultuous year Paizo and their Pathfinder brand had.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Alex played Starfinder 2e at PAX Unplugged a couple of weeks ago and he shares his thoughts with James and a live Twitch audience. That, and a closer look at the Field Test Mystic.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Jason and John take a walk down memory lane and talk about their first RPG characters and their favorite Starfinder characters.
Listen Now!
In episode 78 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Josh, Jory and Rowan Cappel about their co-design Diced Veggies published by KTBG. This design started as a father/son activity that quickly added a niece/cousin to the mix. Starting from a catchy name they quickly created a dice drafting cooking game with a fun chopping component and thematically linked recipe cards. Thought was put into what veggies the dice would represent as well as finding recipes that had those vegetables diced in order to make it! If you’re looking to work with kids on a design then check out this episode!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Josh Cappel – Guest
Jory Cappel – Guest
Rowan Cappel – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Just when they thought they were safe, our heroes are confronted by moon giants!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Ryan shares his experiences working on G.I. JOE Roleplaying Game Ferocious Fighters: Factions in Action Vol. 1.
Fair warning, Ryan had scheduling issues getting this episode recorded, so it’s long and the editing is loose.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
With two Enhanced classes out of the way, Alex and James cram the rest of Starfinder Enhanced into one enthusiastic review.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John, Jason, and special guest Ron Lundeen talk how to introduce new Starfinder subsystems as a GM.
Listen Now!Our guest today is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
In episode 77 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Jonathan Chaffer, the mastermind behind the 18-card escape room game line Holiday Hijinks published by Grand Gamers Guild. Jonathan discusses how his holiday gift idea has now turned into a line of creatively crafted escape room games that only requires internet and 18 cards. Listen to how he crafts an answer list of words then works backwards to create the puzzles in each of his games. He even illustrates the cards and codes for the electronic parts of this escape room! Learn how to build an escape room game with tight restraints thanks to Jonathan!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Jonathan Chaffer – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
After returning to their own bodies again, our heroes must stave of liquidation!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Esther and Navaar look at Player Core and GM Core, the two flagship hardcover sourcebooks of the Pathfinder Remaster rules revamp.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John, Jason, and special guest Ron Lundeen talk about Thanksgiving and Starfinder – including a new turkey playable species?
Listen Now!Our guest today is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
In episode 76 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Jeff Horger about the second edition of Dark Domains! Learn what changes to the rulebook, components and gameplay occurred in the second printing. Listen to where the proposed initial design to make a game that included “skulls and tarot cards” came from. And how a multiple year RPG campaign helped build the lore of the game and characters.
Launch Tabletop is offering 20% off your first order by going to launchtabletop.com and using the promo code GDU20 when checking out. This special discount is valid through 2023.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Jeff Horger – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
It’s going to take a miracle for one of our heroes to escape a deadly trap!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Jason and Ryan talk about the incorporating puzzles into your TTRPG campaign.
For more, check out the Solving Puzzles panel from PaizoCon 2019.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Paizo’s lead editor Avi Kool goes into all of the intricate details involved in working on one of the world’s leading roleplaying games, dealing with problematic content, the many unexpected hats an RPG editor has to wear.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John and Jason talk about the soon to be released Pathfinder 2nd edition remastered version and the implications it might have for Starfinder 2nd edition.
Listen Now!
In episode 75 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Elizabeth Hargrave about all things birds with her game Wingspan! What started as a game suggestion from her husband turned into a game that has inspired so many women and nature enthusiasts to enter the industry! Hear about how her game evolved through signing it with Stonemaier Games and their development process. Listen as she talks through the different expansions and what issues came up when translating the game over to different languages. Also, get advice on how to design a nature themed game!
Launch Tabletop is offering 20% off your first order by going to launchtabletop.com and using the promo code GDU20 when checking out. This special discount is valid through 2023.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Elizabeth Hargrave – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes are caught in a horrific Sivv social gathering !
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Ryan and Jason talk about the options and development history of the G.I. JOE Roleplaying Game’s vilest sourcebook, Cobra Codex.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
On this spooky episode of Legend Lore, jess and Loren crack open the Book of the Dead and gaze into Pathfinder 2’s Undead Archetypes! Follow along as they go over the basics of using these undead character options, share their favourite archetype feats from each archetypes, and then build their own undead characters using the archetypes.
Listen Now! (mp3)If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord!
Legend Lore is hosted by Jessica Redekop (on BlueSky as @tectonomancer.bsky.social) and Loren Dovah. Audio production is done by Drew Carbee, and the Legend Lore banner illustrations of jess and Loren were created by Sita Duncan (on twitter as @sitaart). Music used in the episode includes: Trapped in the Sewers by Experia.
Prolific Pathfinder freelancer Dave Nelson returns to talk about his work on Highhelm, his lasting influence on the Pathfinder setting and system, and what the future holds.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Finn recognizes that the following is in need of some R&R after a long pursuit. With the Burning Mammoth just over the horizon, the adventurers take some time away from scouting to discuss what has happened and a solid path forward. After meeting a new friend, another looming threat takes shape.
Tavern Rats Episode 9 will be the final episode of Tavern Rats Quest of the Frozen Flame. Thank you to all the Know Direction listeners who joined us on our adventure and listened to the show!
Listen Now! (mp3)Tavern Rats is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The Tavern Rats are currently playing Broken Tusk Moon, the first volume of Paizo’s Quest for the Frozen Flame Adventure Path. The network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection.
Featuring:
Drew Carbee as Xoroku, the winter orc barbarian
Chris Lopez as Finn, the draconic bard
Jessica Redekop as Solsade, the kirin-descended sorceress
Follow jess on Twitter or BlueSky @tectonomancer or find her at her website, https://tectonomancer.carrd.co/
Loren Sieg as Wren Thornrose of House Perdition, the Mendevian crusader
And Michelle Jones as the Game Master
Follow Michelle on Twitter or BlueSky @Aleshakills or find her at her website, https://mjonesttrpg.carrd.co/
You can also find the Tavern Rats on Twitter @TavernRats
Additional Information:
Tavern Rats character art illustrated by Derry Luttrell
Tavern Rats rat logo art illustrated by TJ Gallahan
Broken Tusk Moon, volume one of the Quest for the Frozen Flame Adventure Path, written by Ron Lundeen and Stephanie Lundeen and published by Paizo Publishing
Music used in the episode includes: Kingdom by Spectacles Wallet and Watch; Adventurers of the New Hero by Grant Newman; The Batoidea by Martin Landh; Human Nature by Francis Wells; The Proving Grounds by Dragon Tamer ; For What Is Right by Trevor Kowalski; Drifting Emotions by Howard Harper-Branes.
John and Jason talk about the sections they wrote of the just released Starfinder Enhanced hardcover.
Listen Now!
In episode 74 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Grant Lyon about his party game co-design Curmudgeon. The game lets players come up with their own witty disses and comebacks to hilarious prompts. Grant talks about how his background in comedy and writing has helped him not only design party games but get hired to write card prompts for games like Verses, Would You Rather and Ghosted.
And please vote Danielle Reynolds for the TAGIE Rising Star Innovator award at https://peopleofplay.com/toy-game-innovation-awards/2023. Voting is open until October 20th!
Launch Tabletop is offering 20% off your first order by going to launchtabletop.com and using the promo code GDU20 when checking out. This special discount is valid through 2023.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Grant Lyon – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes somehow become Sivv warriors playing Angry Birds?
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Ryan and Jason are back together, discussing all of the Essence20 and Hasbro brand news from the latest RenegadeCon.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Alex and James preview and share their thoughts on two Starfinder Enhanced classes: Envoy and Solarion.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Paizo Organized Play Line Developer Shay Snow joins Esther and Navaar to talk Organized Play, and disability in gaming, and about getting into Pathfinder.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
The party is finally getting the hang of scouting for the following. After deciding on the route they must take, the party pushes forward toward Gleaming Sun Lake. Will the Broken Tusk manage to stay ahead of the Burning Mammoth or should our adventurers be more worried about the wild Realm of the Mammoth Lords in front of them?
Listen Now! (mp3)Tavern Rats is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The Tavern Rats are currently playing Broken Tusk Moon, the first volume of Paizo’s Quest for the Frozen Flame Adventure Path. The network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection.
Featuring:
Drew Carbee as Xoroku, the winter orc barbarian
Chris Lopez as Finn, the draconic bard
Jessica Redekop as Solsade, the kirin-descended sorceress
Follow jess on Twitter or BlueSky @tectonomancer or find her at her website, https://tectonomancer.carrd.co/
Loren Sieg as Wren Thornrose of House Perdition, the Mendevian crusader
And Michelle Jones as the Game Master
Follow Michelle on Twitter or BlueSky @Aleshakills or find her at her website, https://mjonesttrpg.carrd.co/
You can also find the Tavern Rats on Twitter @TavernRats
Additional Information:
Tavern Rats character art illustrated by Derry Luttrell
Tavern Rats rat logo art illustrated by TJ Gallahan
Broken Tusk Moon, volume one of the Quest for the Frozen Flame Adventure Path, written by Ron Lundeen and Stephanie Lundeen and published by Paizo Publishing
Music used in the episode includes: Kingdom by Spectacles Wallet and Watch; Adventurers of the New Hero by Grant Newman; The Batoidea by Martin Landh; Human Nature by Francis Wells; The Proving Grounds by Dragon Tamer ; For What Is Right by Trevor Kowalski; Drifting Emotions by Howard Harper-Branes.
John and Jason talk about debilitating conditions in Starfinder and how to mitigate them.
Listen Now!
In episode 73 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with M & Corinne Yeager on their 18-card game Exploring Galapagos published by Button Shy. Listen to them discuss their initial inspiration from the game SET and how issues came up in the initial printing of the game and how they were able to fix it with only the use of the rulebook! Enjoy this episode all about designing with constraints.
And please vote Danielle Reynolds for the TAGIE Rising Star Innovator award at https://peopleofplay.com/toy-game-innovation-awards/2023. Voting is open until October 20th!
Launch Tabletop is offering 20% off your first order by going to launchtabletop.com and using the promo code GDU20 when checking out. This special discount is valid through 2023.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:M Yeager – Guest
Corinne Yeager – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
To get into Ark Prime, our heroes must first defeat a fearsome dragon!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Jessica Redekop joins Esther to talk about her contributions to the latest Pathfinder 2e hardcover, Rage of Elements.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
The Broken Tusk are on the run! After hours of running, the party receives some much needed time to discuss plans and strategy with the Mammoth Lords. It’s down to our brave adventurers to blaze a path forward. The Tavern Rats struggle as tragedy strikes in the middle of their new responsibility.
Listen Now! (mp3)Tavern Rats is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The Tavern Rats are currently playing Broken Tusk Moon, the first volume of Paizo’s Quest for the Frozen Flame Adventure Path. The network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection.
Featuring:
Drew Carbee as Xoroku, the winter orc barbarian
Chris Lopez as Finn, the draconic bard
Jessica Redekop as Solsade, the kirin-descended sorceress
Follow jess on Twitter or BlueSky @tectonomancer or find her at her website, https://tectonomancer.carrd.co/
Loren Sieg as Wren Thornrose of House Perdition, the Mendevian crusader
And Michelle Jones as the Game Master
Follow Michelle on Twitter or BlueSky @Aleshakills or find her at her website, https://mjonesttrpg.carrd.co/
You can also find the Tavern Rats on Twitter @TavernRats
Additional Information:
Tavern Rats character art illustrated by Derry Luttrell
Tavern Rats rat logo art illustrated by TJ Gallahan
Broken Tusk Moon, volume one of the Quest for the Frozen Flame Adventure Path, written by Ron Lundeen and Stephanie Lundeen and published by Paizo Publishing
Music used in the episode includes: Kingdom by Spectacles Wallet and Watch; Adventurers of the New Hero by Grant Newman; The Batoidea by Martin Landh; Human Nature by Francis Wells; The Proving Grounds by Dragon Tamer ; For What Is Right by Trevor Kowalski; Drifting Emotions by Howard Harper-Branes.
John and Jason talk the recently released Starfield computer role-playing game and what might gleaned for use in Starfinder.
Listen Now!
Alex and James talk with Thurston Hillman and Jenny Jarzabski from Paizo’s Starfinder team about their plans for Starfinder 2e. Live on Twitch!
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 72 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Sean Fletcher the designer behind Disney Sorcerer’s Arena: Epic Alliances as well as so many other IP based games. He talks about how he took his love of Magic the Gathering and applied it to creating this Disney Battle game. From turning classic Disney characters into different archetypes to balancing their deck abilities and powers while keeping them thematic. Hear about how he turned one of the world’s favorite IPs into a board game.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Sean Fletcher – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes make their way though incoming starship fire to cross the surface of Ark Prime and reach the entry airlock.
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
It’s Legend Lore with tonight’s guest stars, the Muppets! Join jess and Loren for a reimagining of four listener-submitted Muppet favorites as Pathfinder 2 heroes. Will they all be poppets? Will they all be bards? It’s time to get things started on the most sensational, inspirational, celebrational, Muppetational! This is what we call Legend Lore Builds!
Listen Now! (mp3)If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord!
Legend Lore is hosted by Jessica Redekop (on BlueSky as @tectonomancer.bsky.social) and Loren Dovah. Audio production is done by Drew Carbee, and the Legend Lore banner illustrations of jess and Loren were created by Sita Duncan (on twitter as @sitaart). Music used in the episode includes: Trapped in the Sewers by Experia.
How do you maintain tradition and ceremony in the face of certain danger? It is the day of the Green Moon Festival, and the Broken Tusk Following prepares both for their important annual celebration of life, survival, and community, and for how they will escape if – or when – that ritual is attacked. Listen Now! […]
John and Jason talk about why you should play Starfinder even with Starfinder 2.0 looming on the horizon.
Listen Now!
Alex and James reflect on the recent Starfinder Second Edition announcement, and share their thoughts on the Field Test, live on Twitch. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 71 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with sisters Alice and Jessica Hong of FamBam Games about their co-design Not So Neighborly. A light-weight card game of building and destroying a neighborhood. This project started with a need to have another game while stuck in their Covid bubble that turned into a family run company. Learn about things like UNPUB, the Horizon Fellowship and other things that helped them jump head first into this industry!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Alice Hong – Guest
Jessica Hong – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
After a hard fought starship battle, our heroes finally defeat the swarm of drones protecting Ark Prime.
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Ryan shows off his Essence20 Threat design philosophy by creating a TL 9 stat block for the Cobra Imperial Guard. If you like tight audio following a detailed outline, this isn’t that. But if you want insight into Ryan’s approach to Threat design, hear every synapse that fires while he works on Essence20, and wait out every pause to sip water, this is the episode for you!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Have you heard of the King of Thieves? The Gray Master? Have you heard of… Norgorber? On this episode of Legend Lore, jess and Loren spill the t on Golarion’s god of secrets, thievery, and assassins. They explore the structure of his churches, the nature of his faith, and the followers he might attract, in […]
What holds a family together? In this episode of Tavern Rats, Finn, Solsade, Wren, and Xoroku head to the site of the Green Moon Festival to make final preparations and discover a monumental problem. While the Broken Tusks prepare for the worst, the bonds of friendship between the scouts grows stronger, and the night before […]
John and special guest Ron Lundeen discuss some of the possible challenges associated with developing Starfinder 2.0. Listen Now! Ron Lundeen is an employee of Wizards of the Coast, and the opinions he expresses are his own.
In episode 70 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with David Diaz about his game Fossilis published by KTBG (Kids Table Board Games). The game was initially designed with his son in mind mixed with a personal love of dinosaurs. It quickly developed into a 3-D tile pushing archeology game with set-collecting […]
Our heroes encounter a powerful spectra and must match wits with a devastatingly handsome fellow bent on destroying the Starstone! Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Ryan flies solo to tell you about Gen Con 2023 from an Essence20 POV. This includes acting as Master of Ceremonies for the World’s Collide: Battle For The Multiverse event, and the latest Renegade Game Studios news. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other […]
On this episode of Legend Lore, jess and Loren take a look at the Inventor class in Pathfinder Second Edition! Follow along as they discuss real life media inventors in Pathfinder form, break down the Inventor class features, and present their own Inventor builds. Listen Now! (mp3) If you have questions or requests for future […]
When should difficult stories be passed down to the next generation? In this episode of Tavern Rats, a pair of mischievous nature spirits play a dangerous prank on the Broken Tusk scouts while they prepare for the upcoming Green Moon Festival. After warning the elders that evidence of a Burning Mammoth camp was found nearby, […]
Esther and Navaar cover Paizo news and take their first look at the latest Pathfinder 2e hardcover, Rage of Elements. Also available in writing. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 69 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Mike Belsole and Grace Kendall about their co-design Smug Owls published by Runaway Games. What started as a game made for a convention Christmas gift exchange turned into an owl themed game about generating riddles for players to solve. The last player […]
Razz entertains the skittermander whelps while our heroes foil an Azlanti plot! Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
On this episode of Legend Lore, join Jess and Loren for a journey through the Elemental Planes. They look into what and where the Inner Sphere is and how these other planes connect to each other, discuss the different precautions you’ll want to take as an elemental explorer, and dive into the biggest planar cities […]
John chatted with Dusty Hill of the Goblets and Gays, An Unwavering Force, and Bring Your Own Mech podcasts. Listen Now!(mp3)
Do warriors deserve to die in battle? In this episode of Tavern Rats, the new Broken Tusk scouts have returned to camp with an injured prisoner, and it’s up to the to the Mammoth Lords to decide this prisoner’s fate. Where did the captured hunter come from? What following did he and his partner belong […]
Jason and John talk about designing Starfinder/Pathfinder crossover adventures. Listen Now!
In episode 68 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Corey Andalora and Donnie Coleman about their asymmetric space themed co-op game Mission Control: Critical Orbit. What started as a game design challenge inspired by the initial parts of COVID grew into this unique real-time puzzle game you can play with your […]
Our heroes encounter a suspicious non-fey time traveler as well as some temporally challenged skittermanders. Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Ryan and Jason breakdown the design and development of the crossover adventure included in the Field Guide to Action and Adventure as well as this year’s Free RPG Day adventure, Cobra/Con Fusion. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com. Although the […]
On this episode of Legend Lore, jess and Loren look over the leshy ancestry from Pathfinder Second Edition! They explore the leshy’s roots in folklore, just how leshies are created in Golarion, and examine the many different types of leshies, before presenting their own leshy character concepts. Listen Now! (mp3) If you have questions or […]
John chatted with new Know Direction Network member Chris Lopez about his role on the Tavern Rats actual play podcast. Listen Now!(mp3)
Join us on our continued adventure for the Quest for the Frozen Flame! In this drama filled episode, tasks are assigned, wildlife is wrangled, and the crew is presented with a moral dilemma that will decide if friends become foe after encountering a new threat. Wren discovers more about what may have happened during the […]
Jason shares his thoughts and process for writing Golarion World for the recently released Starfinder Ports of Call hardcover. Listen Now! Our special guest today is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Pathfinder Creative Director Luis Loza talks with Esther and Navaar about Lost Omens: Highhelm, the most dwarf-centric Pathfinder product ever. Also available in writing. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 67 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we kick off season 4 with Julie Ahern the designer of BarBEARian Battlegrounds: Tales of BarBEARia. The reason she chose this design in particular is because it was a sequel to a game designed by Walter Barber and Ian VanNest. These designers were tasked with […]
Our heroes discover the summoner of the contract devils and put a stop to her evil plans! Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Get answers about the games you love from the people who make them! Paizo staff will be on hand to field your questions from the Twitch chat. Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission from Paizo Inc. Videos of the events are available on demand on […]
Who doesn’t love a good mystery? They can be great to include in roleplaying games, but sometimes, the search for clues can derail the best-laid plans of even the most talented GM. In this panel, we’ll discuss techniques on how best to present mysteries in your games, chat about our own mysterious inspirations, and maybe […]
Get an in-depth look at the upcoming Starfinder Enhanced book from the people who made it! Learn about the new enhanced core classes and get previews on new class content, new species, new feats, and a whole lot of new content that we just can’t wait to reveal! Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s […]
Dig deep beneath the surface of Golarion to find the wonders, dangers, and mysteries of life below. Join us for a discussion of the Darklands and how they tie into the upcoming Lost Omens Highhelm book, the Sky King’s Tomb Adventure Path, and more! Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar […]
Ryan and Jason go over how the ultimate Essence20 crossover sourcebook came to be in this in depth look at the Field Guide to Action and Adventure. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com. Although the hosts both work for Renegade […]
Learn tips and tricks to building a one-session adventure from some of Paizo’s adventure developers. Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission from Paizo Inc. Videos of the events are available on demand on Paizo’s YouTube channel.
An interview with Mark Moreland about the process of making WizKids minis. Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission from Paizo Inc. Videos of the events are available on demand on Paizo’s YouTube channel.
John chatted with freelance game designer Dana Ebert about how she got started writing for Paizo, as well as her soon to open tabletop RPG brewpub in Portland – the TPK Brewing Co. Listen Now!(mp3)
On this very special episode of Legend Lore, jess is joined by Drew Carbee, audio producer and cast member of the new Tavern Rats podcast. They discuss how they got into gaming, other AP podcasts, and what inspires them about their favourite GMs. Drew also answers listener questions from his perspective as a new PF2 […]
Paizo’s editors share their insight on common writing pitfalls to avoid, following a style guide, using inclusive language, and other ways to strengthen your writing, whether freelancing for companies like Paizo or publishing your work on other platforms. Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission from […]
Join Infinite Masters Dustin Knight, James Beck, Tony Saunders, and Vanessa Hoskins as they relay their experiences, offer advice, and answer questions about how to publish on Pathfinder Infinite, including where to find creator resources and collaborative creator spaces! Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission […]
Join the Tavern Rats crew for their first session of Quest for the Frozen Flame! In this episode, our heroes are introduced, a wayward crusader is given shelter among strangers, and the Broken Tusk scouts strike out on a dangerous hunt. Listen Now! (mp3) Tavern Rats is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and […]
Come join the Pathfinder Narrative team for a discussion about Pathfinder Adventures, be they stand-alone modules, Organized Play scenarios, or full Adventure Path campaigns! We’ll be chatting about several upcoming adventures, answering questions, and previewing some upcoming surprises—including an announcement for what we’ve got planned for the 200th Pathfinder Adventure Path volume! Listen Now! (mp3) […]
Learn about what’s between the covers of the Lost Omens books and what’s behind the scenes. Join some of the crew steering the world of Golarion to hear about what’s going on in the world and what’s coming. We’ll be answering as many questions as we can—but not all secrets will be revealed. Listen Now! […]
Get answers about the games you love from the people who make them! Paizo staff will be on hand to field your questions from the Twitch chat. Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission from Paizo Inc. Videos of the events are available on demand on […]
Join the Pathfinder Rules & Lore team as they reveal the secrets of elemental power and primal realms! This panel will include previews and discussion on Pathfinder Rage of Elements and other upcoming Pathfinder releases that explore Golarion, from the Inner Sea to its wildest and most remote regions! Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction […]
The Organized Play team shares exciting news about our programs and upcoming adventures. Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission from Paizo Inc. Videos of the events are available on demand on Paizo’s YouTube channel.
Join the Starfinder team as they reveal new projects and behind-the-scenes talks about the Starfinder setting’s direction moving forward. Learn about upcoming adventures and get a chance to ask the developers some of your pressing questions! Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission from Paizo Inc. […]
Join the Pathfinder designers as they talk about the upcoming Pathfinder Remaster releases! Topics include an explanation of what the Remaster project is and what kinds of updates and improvements fans can expect. Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission from Paizo Inc. Videos of the […]
Exciting news and upcoming products at our annual Keynote, hosted by Erik Mona. Listen Now! (mp3) The Know Direction Network’s PaizoCon Online 2023 seminar coverage is shared with permission from Paizo Inc. Videos of the events are available on demand on Paizo’s YouTube channel.
Writer Tan Shao Han talks about his contribution to Pathfinder Lost Omens: The Impossible Lands. Also available in writing. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 66 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we recap the third season with guest host Beneeta Kaur. We talk about some fun games from the past season, heartfelt inspirations, interesting systems designed for RPGs and catch up on what’s been going on with Danielle’s career in the gaming industry outside the podcast. […]
Our heroes process a cease and desist order on a pair of contract devils engaged in hellish construction. Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
To mark the release of the Field Guide to Action and Adventure, Essence20’s most magnanimous sourcebook to date, Ryan and Jason will be dedicating the next three episodes to its content and themes. The Action and Adventure Trilogy begins with a look at the history of these settings crossing over. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake […]
On this giant-sized episode of Legend Lore, jess and Loren reimagine six listener-submitted X-Men characters into Pathfinder 2! How many psychics will they build? How many catfolk? Listen now to jess and Loren’s takes, then visit the Know Direction discord to share how you would build these marvelous characters! Listen Now! (mp3) If you have […]
John chatted avid Pathfinder player and GM, and RPG Chronicles creator Michael Phox about his great time-saving tool for GMs and conventions. Listen Now!(mp3)
John and Jason talk about Jason’s new Pistol Dancer character, how the fighting style was conceived, and how it might be changed in the future. Listen Now!
Pathfinder Design Manager Michael Sayre joins Esther and Navaar to take a closer look at the wonders within Pathfinder Treasure Vault. Also available in writing. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 65 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Pophouse Collective’s Josh Kemper and Robert Smith about their getting to know you party game It’s Kind of a Fun Story. They talk about how the game was inspired by a Halloween Party game night with salaciously probing questions that they wanted […]
Our heroes help an angel quell a riot before heading off to deal with devils. Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Lifelong Sgt Slaughter fan Ryan (pictured) talks about designing the options and adventure in the G.I. JOE Roleplaying Game Sgt Slaughter Limited Edition Accessory Pack, and Jason talks about developing it into the final product. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes part 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out […]
On this episode of Legend Lore, jess and Loren make a toast to one of Pathfinder’s most popular deities: Cayden Cailean! They examine the nature of the Accidental God himself and his faith, how to make each class fit for a Caydenite character, answer listener questions, and discuss what it means when a god’s core […]
John chatted with Pathfinder and Starfinder co-creator James L. Sutter about the history behind each of the games as well as his recently released novel. Listen Now!(mp3)
Alex, James, and John do a deep dive into the Starfinder’s newest PC class – the Evolutionist.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John and Jason talk about the Starfinder news released at PaizoCon – lots of details concerning Starfinder Enhanced and Mecha-Geddon!
Listen Now!
In episode 64 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Taylor Shuss about his asymmetric deck building game Stonewall Uprising inspired by LGBTQ+ History. The mechanics of the game came quickly to him. It was researching events and figureheads from our past that was more difficult. He found it a fun challenge to create a game where people are not only learning but have a visceral feeling from playing the role of “the Man”. Learn about this historically important game as we enter Pride Month!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Taylor Shuss – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes troll some trolls!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
In YouTube channel Dave Thaumavore RPG Reviews review of the Transformers RPG, commented on the oddness of some of the language choices Threats get. A commenter even said the Renegade and Essence20 are obsessed with language. On that note, Ryan and Jason talk languages in Essence20.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
On this episode of Legend Lore, jess and Loren take a look at the Pathfinder Second Edition Gunslinger! Follow along as they break down the Gunslinger class features, present their own Gunslinger builds, and uncover the history of black powder weapons in Golarion.
Listen Now! (mp3)If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
Legend Lore is hosted by Jessica Redekop (on twitter as @tectonomancer) and Loren Dovah. This episode additionally features special guest Luis Loza!
Legend Lore is produced and edited by Drew Carbee, and the Legend Lore banner illustrations of jess and Loren were created by Sita Duncan (on twitter as @sitaart).
John had the chance to chat with professor, podcaster, and professional GM Christopher Rondeau about storytelling and content creation.
Listen Now!(mp3)
John and Jason talk about Starfinder Mechs and Mech combat in preparation for their upcoming To Defy the Dragon Starfinder adventure.
Listen Now!
Esther and Navaar breakdown Pathfinder Lost Omen’s Firebrands, a new Pathfinder 2e hardcover for rebels and braggards. Plus, all the latest news for the Pathfinder roleplaying game.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 63 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with two Magic: The Gathering Hall of Famers Robert Dougherty and Darwin Kastle, the designers of Star Realms. They speak about how their love of trading card games and wanting to help Darwin find a job brought the deckbuilder known as Star Realms into reality. Their development process was fueled by wanting to beat each other until they balanced out the cards. Thanks to a friend they created an app for the game that has increased the game’s fan base over the years. Plus, they talk about their approach to expansions and spin-offs. Check out the special announcement at the end of the episode that you don’t want to miss!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Robert Dougherty – Guest
Darwin Kastle – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes battle at Jatembe Park to save all of Absalom Station!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
After working as an RPG developer for years, and as an Essence20 developer for nearly a year, Jason is ready to address today’s topic: What is an RPG developer?
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
With Pathfinder 2e expanding its ancestry options in bold new directions, Loren and Jess look how Paizo turned the traditionally antagonistic hobgoblins into a playable option.
Listen Now! (mp3)If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
John had the chance to chat with Know Direction’s very own Navaar Seik- Jackson to chat about game design and podcasting.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Join Alex Augunas, James Ballod, and new producer and co-host John Godek as Know Direction: Beyond returns and talks about the Interstellar Species Starfinder hardcover.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Jason is back at Paizo as a Pathfinder Senior Developer! Jason and John talk about his return, and what might be going on with Starfinder after the recently announced Pathfinder Remastered hardcovers.
Listen Now!
Esther and Navaar open up the Pathfinder Treasure Vault, a new Pathfinder 2e hardcover they describe as the GM’s dream! And the player’s dream, too.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Esther and Navaar open up the Pathfinder Treasure Vault, a new Pathfinder 2e hardcover they describe as the GM’s dream! And the player’s dream, too.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 62 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Sarah Shipp the designer of Deadly Dowagers. This game started with a theme of generations of people trying to improve their positions in life that quickly became a theme about you playing as a middle-class Victorian woman who would kill to be a duchess. In Sarah’s card-drafting game you will marry, collect money, and murder to improve your status in life. The game beyond being very thematic also includes fun easter eggs! Listen to how Sarah’s first design changed through the development process.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Sarah Shipp – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes craft a master plan so crazy that it just might work!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Because monsters are cool and creating your own monsters can be fun, Loren and Jess go over the Pathfinder 2e monster creation rules, including presenting two original Pathfinder 2e monsters of their own creation.
Listen Now! (mp3)If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
John chats with freelance writer and game designer Andrew Geels about his work on the recently released Treasure Vault and recently announced Rage of Elements hardcovers from Paizo.
Listen Now!(mp3)
John and Jason discuss the recently announced Paizo video games and talk about what a Starfinder video game might look like.
Listen Now!
Esther and Navaar return to the recent Lost Omens Impossible Lands Hardcover, and welcome one of the book’s authors, Ruvaid Virk to talk about his contributions—Jalmeray specifically—authoring cultural representation in fantasy worldbuilding as a member of the culture being represented, compelling deities, and more.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 61 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Chris Chung the designer of Lanterns: The Harvest Festival. What started out as a game jam design quickly became an evergreen game. With its simplistic rules, unique theme and beautiful artwork. Plus, a fun easter egg that Chris’s grandma was excited to spot in the artwork. Listen to how Chris grew as a designer and turned a nature themed game into Lanterns.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Chris Chung – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes endeavor to save Absalom Station for certain destruction!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
After going days without power due to an ice storm, Ryan just wanted to hang out with his friend Jason and talk about whatever. Fair warning, there’s virtually no Essence20 talk in this episode of the Know Direction Network’s Essence20 podcast.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Loren and Jessica look at the goddess of righteous valor, justice, and honor.
Listen Now! (mp3)If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
John chats with freelance writer and game designer Jeremy Blum about his work on the recently announced Pathfinder Tian Xia hardcovers and Season of Ghosts adventure path.
Listen Now!(mp3)
John and Jason discuss the original Starfinder comics from Dynamite and make some educated predictions concerning the new upcoming Starfinder comics!
Listen Now!
Venture into the Impossible Lands with the Know Direction podcast.
In this review of the recent Lost Omens Hardcover, Esther and Navaar look at the many Ancestries and regions this book has to offer, and compare how Paizo handled regions outside of the Inner Sea Region in the past to how they’ve done so since the launch of second edition.
Also available in writing.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 60 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Joe Barron from Gray Matters Games about how he teamed up with graphic design students at the College of DuPage to create a word game during the Wordle craze. Through playtesting they not only improved the graphics of the game but realized that their electronic timer could be improved to help the hearing impaired by adding flashing lights. Check out this fun spelling game with a Scattergories twist!
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Joe Barron – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes make a triumphant return, defeating the guardian of the Worldseed and saving the planet!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
As Jason discussed last episode, he’s been using an fan generated Foundry module to run his G.I. Joe campaign. We speak with a developer of the Essence20 module, Renderance, about the hows and whys of bringing Essence20 to the Foundry virtual tabletop, and how Essence20 players can get in on the action themselves. It all starts with this Github link.
Essence20 News* Cobra/Con Fusion: A G.I. JOE/Transformers Essence20 crossover adventure available at this year’s Free RPG Day offering (June 24th) * ICv2 lists Transformers as one of the top selling RPGs of the last quarter. * G.I. JOE Sgt Slaughter Limited Edition Accessory Pack PDF is now available to those who preordered. * Renegade put out a call for playtesters
Misprinted D4 replacements are shipping out soon.
https://discord.com/channels/702536469365129256/840692125603332116/1089938467275935817
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Loren and Jessica take D&D 5e characters submit to them by fans and walk through converting them to Pathfinder 2e.
Listen Now! (mp3)If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
John chats with game designer, actor, and stage fight director Nicolas Logue about his career and upcoming live stream fundraiser, which you can check out here: https://hui.uhfoundation.org/g/RedRaven
Listen Now!(mp3)
John and Jason build upon the previous episode by talking about the additions they would like to see made to Starfinder in the future.
Listen Now!
New hosts Esther Wallace and Navaar Jackson introduce themselves and let you know what to expect from the Know Direction Podcast going forward.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 59 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Ben Goldman the designer of Paint the Roses published by Northstar Games. He talks about designing co-op games and how adding the Alice and Wonderland theme to a previous quilting theme added to the design of the game. From the stacking of roses to grow the Queen’s height and speed to adding the white rabbit to help people understand how the Queen’s movement works. There were a lot of minor changes to the design to make this a challenging, yet fun co-op puzzle game with a nice rubber band effect. And for those of you who want some tips on how to beat this game check out this blog: https://www.northstargames.com/pages/paint-the-roses-hints-and-tips
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Ben Goldman – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Less than 30 days after Renegade Con Virtual 2023, Renegade Game Studios hosted Renegade Con Virtual: Just Wait Special Edition. What new news could President and Publisher Scott Gaeta, and VP Sales and Marketing Sara Erickson have to announce so soon after Renegade Con Virtual 2023?
Lots!
Finster’s Monster-Matic Cookbook
Power Rangers Standee Pack 1
Cobra Codex
G.I. JOE Roleplaying Game Villain Miniatures Set 1
Cobra Dice
Cobra Dice Bag
Field Guide To Action And Adventure
And if you preordered the Power Rangers RPG: Across The Stars, Transformers RPG: The Time is Now, or My Little Pony RPG Core Rulebook, the PDF is available now to download.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
Guest host Ron Lundeen turns the tables and interviews John for the 100th episode of Presenting: Gamers Making Games.
Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Loren and new cohost Jessica Redekop give Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition players a run down on the basics of Pathfinder 2e, including an extensive look at all of 2e’s base classes.
If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John and Jason talk about Starfinder Enhanced! A book just announced, and one they both wrote for.
Listen Now!
In episode 58 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Scott Brady the designer of Hues and Cues published by the Op Games. Scott was able to use his connections as a reviewer to get in touch with publishers once his color swatch themed party game was ready to pitch. The game was inspired by his printing background that only got better through playtesting. Hear him talk about his unique scoring mechanic and how the game actually works for color blind folks in this episode.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Scott Brady – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John chatted with Roll for Combat’s Mark Seifter and Stephen Glicker about their ongoing projects and the recent issues concerning the OGL.
Listen Now!(mp3)
In episode 57 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Chris O’Neill about both his game Mazes and the RPG system he designed for the game called Polymorph. Chris spent years creating a new system based around each player playing as a specific single die. Each character will come with a die and an amount of stars. In the system stars allow players to forgo rolling to achieve what they want to do. The system was heavily inspired by the old days of D&D where most things were possible as long as it made sense. Chris worked to create a very accessible system that could be adapted into any storyline. He also talks about how 9th Level Games licensing the system works so other creatives can choose to expand on the RPGs 9th Level Games has already published.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Chris O’Neill – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John chatted with Paizo Pathfinder Developer and freelance author Landon Winkler.
Listen Now!(mp3)
What happened at last weekend’s Renegade Con Virtual 2023? Ryan and Jason cover the Renegade Con news, focusing on the Essence20 products, of course, but giving some time to the many, many, MANY (many) other games Renegade announced.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John and Jason discuss how Starfinder compares to other D20 systems and what resources they recommend for those getting started with Starfinder.
Listen Now!
In episode 56 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Heather O’Neill about her first solo design Meeple Party. What started out as a logic puzzle for your brain quickly got themed around hosting a party with your fellow roommates. Meeples were given colors and stereotypes that tied into how they moved other party-goers around the modular board. In order to win you had to set up different scenarios and take pictures while avoiding adding stress to you and your roommates. As Heather’s first co-op game she learned a lot about coming up with a win condition that worked and a way to scale the difficulty of the game. Also, how adding the right art and humor added an extra level to the game’s design.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Heather O’Neill – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John chatted with freelance author and game designer Sen H.H.S. about her writing career and how it has helped her cope with mental illness.
Listen Now!(mp3)
John and Jason change gears and discuss some of the implications of the Open RPG Creative License (ORC) for Starfinder.
Listen Now!
In episode 55 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Ami Baio about her first co-design Lost for Words that she worked on with her son. The initial inspiration for the game came from her love of languages and how different words carry different meanings that can invoke memories that are worth sharing. Learn some new words as well as the feelings that can be expressed through this unique party game.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Ami Baio – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John is taking a several episode break from editing and posting Intrepid Heroes. We’ll pick up right we left off afterwards. We are nearly finished recording Devastation Ark and plan to finish soon.
Listen Now!(mp3)
John chatted with freelance author and game designer Isabelle Thorne about her prolific writing career and the Luminant Age campaign for Pathfinder 2e.
Listen Now!(mp3)
In case you know anyone in the market for a new RPG system, Ryan and Jason explain how to sell Essence20 to your friends and game store owners.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John and Jason share their favorite Starfinder armor upgrades and explain why they chose each.
Listen Now!
In episode 54 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Joe Slack about his solo puzzle game Relics of Rajavihara. Starting from an enjoyment of puzzle video games of moving blocks Joe worked to create his almost legacy game themed in an Indiana Jones like world that was suggested by the Solo Board Game Facebook Groups. Joe learned through self-publishing how to develop the game to its best state with cutting down on components and thinking outside the box.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Joe Slack – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes fight against impossible assailants to prevent the World Seed from destroying the entire planet!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
As the Pathfinder news, previews, and interviews podcast, we rarely cover matters related to Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition. However, with leaked information suggesting D&D publisher Wizards of the Coast may be attempting to remove the authorization of the OGL 1.0(a) that Pathfinder 1e was built on, the OGL 1.1 leak could theoretically impact Pathfinder enthusiasts.
Alex Augunas and Owen K.C. Stephens join host Ryan Costello to discuss the news and reaction to OGL 1.1
Listen Now! (mp3)Sources Referenced* Expert Contract Lawyer Explains WotC’s New OGL 1.1 and What It Means by Roll For Combat * Dungeons & Dragons’ New License Tightens Its Grip on Competition by Linda Codega * D&D CEO Thinks Hobby Is ‘Under Monetized’ Compared To Video Games By Claire Jackson * A QUICK HISTORY OF THE D&D OPEN GAMING LICENSE by ANDREW B. * WOTC trying to REVOKE THE OGL for D&D (Lawyer-gamer shares leaked language and comments on it) by The Rules Lawyer
John chatted with Luminant Age Creative Director and freelance author and game designer Mikhail “Michael” S. Rekun about his prolific writing career and the Luminant Age campaign for Pathfinder 2e.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Between September 2008 and December 2011, the Know Direction Network periodically released episodes of an original work of audio fiction called Dwarfed. This fantasy satire began life as a spec script when I was hoping to work fulltime as a screenwriter. When my career plans changed and my podcast took off, I invited my friends, some of which will sound familiar to longtime listeners, to record the dialog for the characters in the script. Then, over the next few years, I recorded the narration and assembled Dwarfed into 9 individual episodes. Those episodes are no longer available on the website, but they’ve been collected for the first time here as the Dwarfed Special Edition.
Listen Now!
The Know Direction holiday tradition continues!
Ryan chats with Luis Loza, Jason Keeley, Loren Sieg, John Godek, and Nate Wright about the holidays, 2022, and the future of the Know Direction Network.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Ryan and Jason look back on Essence20’s first year in the industry.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John and Jason share their favorite Starfinder magic items and explain why they chose each.
Listen Now!
In episode 53 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Michael Guigliano about Batman: The Animated Series – Gotham City Under Siege. We speak about how he got into the gaming hobby through playing Twilight Imperium then met the designer Richard Launius who’d become his co-designer on the Batman game. The design started as a way to help kids learn simple math equations playing as the Avengers attempting to stop Ultron bots that warped into signing the game with IDW and adjusting all the characters to the Batman Universe.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Michael Guigliano – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
John and Ron discuss the future of our Intrepid Heroes. (Note: I mistakenly called this Episode 103 during the episode.)
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
John chatted with freelance author and game designer Shan Wolf about the upcoming Pathfinder Lost Omens Highhelm hardcover and his other freelance work.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Our Adventurous Heroes’ final confrontation with Evgeni concludes.
Listen Now! (mp3)Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running an original adventure that serves as a sequel to Paizo’s Pathfinder Society Scenario #2-17: Lost Maid of Anactoria. Syrinscape provided our theme song and background music. Check them out at syrinscape.com. Finally, the network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection
Featuring:
Ryan Costello as Xavier Saveur
Jefferson Jay Thacker as Glanville Placid Humphrey Alencroft
Loren Sieg as Lily Campbell – Human Investigator of the Toxin Codexer variety, Young Reformer
Vanessa Hoskins as Idonia Stonebrook – Human Priestess of Milani
Jason Keeley as Oggdren Bloodhammer – Dwarf Cavalier, disgraced knight of the Taldan Horse
And Scott D Young as our illustrious Game Master.
Ryan and Jason reflect on their most vivid memories related to the Essence20 brands, Power Rangers, G.I. JOE, Transformers, and My Little Pony.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
Although the hosts both work for Renegade Game Studios in some capacity, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.
John and Jason share their favorite Starfinder spells and explain why they chose each.
Listen Now!
In episode 52 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Ashwin Kamath and Clarence Simpson about their game The Wolves, published by Pandasuarous Games. These designers met through the Tabletop Mentorship Program and created this game design in a matter of months during the worst of the pandemic. Utilizing online playtests they were able to iterate quickly even while living in different parts of the United States. Thanks to their unique action selection mechanic of double-sided tiles this game allows players to control and grow packs of wolves! Flip to certain terrains to move, populate, and howl with your pack! Check out this unique area control game.
Listen Now! (mp3)Featuring:Ashwin Kamath and Clarence Simpson – Guests
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Our heroes reach the bridge of the massive ship and are met with deadly security robots!
Listen Now!(mp3)The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
John chatted with game designer and actual play gamemaster Esther Wallace about her Chromythica Pathfinder actual play, her new gossip based game, and gaming with disabilities.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Inspired by Andor on Disney+ and how it weaves four distinct, three-episode plots into a cohesive 12-episode season, Ryan and Jason look at how Essence20 GMs can plot story arcs for their Power Rangers, G.I. JOE, Transformers, and My Little pony campaigns. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check […]
John and Jason share their Top 5 Starfinder Playable Species and explain why they chose each. Turns out both use very different criteria in creating their lists! Listen Now!
In episode 51 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Marge Rosen about her card game Pirate Party: Women of the High Seas. A card game loosely based on the mechanics of Rummy that took on it’s own character by theming it after historical women pirates! The game offers different gameplays, historical […]
We reflect back on our four plus years of gaming together. Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
John chatted with Critical Hit Cookies owner Karee Vogrin about baking for gamers as well as marathon sessions with the Order of the Amber Die. Listen Now!(mp3)
Ryan and Jason look at how visuals help bring roleplaying game sourcebooks to life, outline what makes a good art order, and discuss some of the surprising challenges involved in ordering art for Power Rangers, G.I. JOE, Transformers, and My Little Pony. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. […]
John and Jason share their Top 5 Starfinder Adventures and explain why each of them made the cut. Spoiler: Their lists are completely different! Listen Now!
In episode 50 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Daniel Newman about his co-published game London Necropolis Railway. He talks about how a Wikipedia link on a historic event in London inspired this morbidly themed game. Also, how he and his company New Mill Industries work to take interestingly themed games […]
Our heroes encounter a dangerous trap and an unexpected ally in the core of the strange starship. Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
John chatted with freelance artist and author Jacob Blackmon about his freelance work, his artistic influences, and favorite his comic books! Listen Now!(mp3)
Our Adventurous Heroes track their hated rival Evgeni down for a final confrontations. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running an original adventure that serves as a sequel to Paizo’s Pathfinder Society Scenario […]
Ryan and Jason, who wrote on and developed on Operation: Cold Iron, respectfully, break it down for GMs and fans interested in more information on the first G.I. Joe Adventure Series hardcover. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com. Although the […]
Jason and John discuss developing Starfinder adventures, with Jason walking through his process for developing the Band on the Run Starfinder adventure written by Luis Loza. Listen Now!
In episode 49 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Roberta Taylor about her game Creature Comforts published by KTGB. This game was initially inspired by the changing of the seasons in Canada. The worker placement with the interesting dice mechanics came shortly after. Roberta talks about her design process, having Helaina […]
In episode 49 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Roberta Taylor about her game Creature Comforts published by KTGB. This game was initially inspired by the changing of the seasons in Canada. The worker placement with the interesting dice mechanics came shortly after. Roberta talks about her design process, having Helaina […]
Our heroes journey to the gas giant Liavara and discover that one of it’s moons is actually a gigantic starship that has become active as a result of the new signal! Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Our heroes journey to the gas giant Liavara and discover that one of it’s moons is actually a gigantic starship that has become active as a result of the new signal! Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
John chatted with freelance author and game designer Andrew Mullen about his projects, including his upcoming Luminant Age campaign setting for Pathfinder 2e. Listen Now!(mp3)
John chatted with freelance author and game designer Andrew Mullen about his projects, including his upcoming Luminant Age campaign setting for Pathfinder 2e. Listen Now!(mp3)
“Mr. Oggdren, how many crits does it take to get to the gooey blood center of a Taldan dwarf?” With the way GM Scott Young rolls in this combat, we might find out! Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous […]
“Mr. Oggdren, how many crits does it take to get to the gooey blood center of a Taldan dwarf?” With the way GM Scott Young rolls in this combat, we might find out! Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous […]
As is common with roleplaying games, Essence20 GMs and players need to parse the meaning behind some unclear rules. Do they use the rules as written (R.A.W.) even if they have reason to believe something is wrong? Do they try to interpret how to run the rule as intended (R.A.I.)? One of Essence20’s authors and designers […]
Jason and John discuss writing Starfinder adventures, with Jason walking through his process for crafting the Junker’s Delight stand alone adventure. Listen Now!
In episode 48 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Molly Zeff a co-owner of Flying Leap Games and co-designer of Million Dollar Doodle, a semi-collaborative entrepreneurship-themed drawing party game. She took an idea her friends thought up at a restaurant and enhanced the idea by adding additional elements and playtesting. Listen […]
Our heroes discover the destination of a strange signal emitting from the tower – and things are looking to go from bad to worse! Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
John chatted UK based freelance writer and game developer David N. Ross about his work converting Paizo Adventure Paths to D&D 5e and the challenges of being a full time freelancer. Warning Audio is rough as I had difficulty removing considerable background noise. Listen Now!(mp3)
In search of magical painter André Gauieux, our Adventurous heroes find their way to an art auction in the sewers of Ustalav. But first, they gear up to fight vampires, because the sewers of Ustalav. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the […]
Jason and John discuss the process for developing Starfinder Adventure Paths from initial brainstorming of ideas through final layout and sending to the printers. Listen Now!
In episode 47 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Michael Pittre on his co-design game “On the Rocks”. He talks about starting a company around this initial design. How he sourced such premium components and worked through the initial Kickstarter Campaign not going their way. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring: Michael Pittre […]
The living nature of the spungeon makes for very strange and dangerous traps. Listen Now!(mp3) The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
John chatted with freelance author and game designer Isis Wozniakowska about her graduate studies, traveling of Europe, and freelance writing and game design work. Listen Now!(mp3)
You know what every private home needs? Cells in the basement. Good for wine. Good for evil artefacts. Good for visiting art experts. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running an original […]
Each Essence20 core rulebook ties into a setting. However, there’s more to the setting of an RPG campaign than just the brand. Ryan and Jason help Essence20 GMs and players narrow down the details of where and when their campaign takes place. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. […]
John and Jason discuss how they go about building high level characters, plus some of the challenges associated with GMing and developing high level content for Starfinder. Listen Now!
In episode 46 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Steve Resk about his game Supershow. A design that started out as a fix to the TOPs trading card game, it was later turned into a pro-wrestling game. He started by making the first printing out of a local non-game manufacturing company […]
Our heroes engage in a lengthy battle with a pack of undead bantrids! Listen Now!(mp3) *The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Join Alex Augunas, James Ballod, Dustin Knight, and Thurston Hillman talk about the future of Starfinder including the Scoured Stars AP and Interstellar Species (not Reforged). Listen Now! (mp3)
John chatted with Paizo Front-End Engineering Lead and prolific freelance author Andrew White about his work, his writing, and how the Paizo Union efforts are progressing. Listen Now!(mp3)
Vanessa and Luis pour over the new Kingmaker releases for 2nd edition, totaling nearly 800 pages of content across two books, including new dungeons, new quests, new companions, and new subsystems. Paizo has given this AP the royal treatment, and it shows in this re-release of a 1st edition favorite. Listen Now! (mp3)
Hey, remember how last episode, Glanville receives a painting from an admirer? And how everyone was suspicious it was some kind of murder painting? It ends up, yep! Murder painting. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new […]
Several related but varied Hasbro properties run on the Essence20 Roleplaying System. Ryan and Jason talk about taking these established and beloved settings and adapting them into roleplaying games. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at Wordburglar.com.
John and Jason talk about the processes they use to create new Starfinder characters, as well as creative ways for naming them. In the discussion, Jason also talks about the shift from races to species in Starfinder. Listen Now!
In episode 45 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with James Hewitt & Sophie Williams about their co-design Hellboy: The Board Game published by Manic Games. This co-op Dark Horse comic book inspired game is filled with minis used to explore ever evolving case based maps. Players are investigating cases while fighting […]
This isn’t your slightly younger self’s Upshift! Learn all about our new co-host (Renegade Game Studios’ new developer Jason Keeley), new format, and newfound willingness to number our episodes in the first episode of the new Upshift. Featuring Letter From Snake Eyes 4, generously provided by Wordburglar. Check it and other amazing 80s-inspired out at […]
Our heroes investigate the source of a strange intergalactic signal. Listen Now!(mp3) *The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
John chatted with serial entrepreneur Dave Scott, owner and founder of Evil Genius Productions, publisher of Everyday Heroes. Listen Now!(mp3)
As our adventurous heroes settle into a temporary new base of operations, Glanville receives a painting from an admirer. BTW, if you want to send to show how you feel to someone you admire, do not send them the gift Glanville got. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction […]
This isn’t your slightly younger self’s Upshift! Learn all about our new co-host (Renegade Game Studios’ new developer Jason Keeley), new format, and newfound willingness to number our episodes in the first episode of the new Upshift. Listen Now! (mp3)
Jason and John give some tips and tricks for getting started with Starfinder, as well as discuss Starfinder’s surprising launch at Gen Con 5 years ago. Listen Now!
Vanessa and Luis pour through the new Lost Omens Travel Guide. Luis talks about the creation of the book and many parts of life on Golarion that are covered therein, while Vanessa absolutely gushes over the inspiration she gets from reading the latest release in the Lost Omens line. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 44 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we recap the second season with guest host and game enthusiast Natasha “Nat” Iris. Nat interviews Danielle to get her thoughts on the season’s highlights and lessons learned. From designing games based on components to feeling to culture we learned there are many ways to […]
Our heroes engage in a lengthy starship combat. Listen Now!(mp3) *The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Alex, James, and Dustin go over all the announcements from GenCon 2022! Listen Now! (mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at the Second Edition’s summoner. Follow along as they break down the summoner class features, discuss the various eidolon types, present their own summoner builds, and talk about the different summoners in media. If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach […]
John chatted with freelance writer and game designer Carlos Cabrera about his new project – Total Recall for Everyday Heroes. Listen Now!(mp3)
It’s episode 35 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. Continuing their search through the temple, they continue their work toward solving the mysteries of the temple’s third floor. With a bit of work, they’ll be able to put their skulls to good use! Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is […]
Jason and John talk about some of the cool Starfinder things announced at Gen Con, including the Redshift Rally adventure, Golarian World, and Thursty’s new position as Managing Creative Director for Starfinder! Listen Now!
Vanessa Hoskins and guest cohost Alex Augunas cover the Pathfinder 2e and Starfinder news from Gen Con 2022, including the biggest news of all: The kineticist playtest, which is now live! Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 43 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Chrissy Fagerholt, one of the designers of FRIEND or FAUX and founder of EAP Toy & Games. Chrissy and her friends took the experience and fun of a girl’s night and created a questions game. They designed levels of questions from tame […]
Our heroes learn the hard way about quantum mechanics. Listen Now!(mp3) *The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Jason and John talk about more personnel changes at Paizo and discuss why this trend continues. Listen Now!
Luis and Vanessa welcome you to Pathfinder and discuss tools and methods for getting started with Pathfinder 2nd Edition. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 42 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Sydney Engelstein, one of the designers to take on the challenge of continuing on the Aeon’s End game line! Listen to Sydney discuss the original games, her involvement with the past and current expansions as well as her favorite one she’s worked […]
Our heroes locate the remaining lost researchers – plus another unexpected person. Listen Now!(mp3) *The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
Alex, James, and Dustin go over rebuilding published encounters, including a reforged enemy from the Dead Suns Adventure Path! Listen Now! (mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at Pathfinder’s humans! They discuss the use of humans in fiction, the human spirit, and the various mechanics related to humans in Pathfinder. If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop […]
John chatted with Paizo Managing Editor and freelance author Leo Glass. Listen Now!(mp3)
Jason and John talk about their favorite Starfinder adventure paths, classes, and creatures. Listen Now!
Stephen Glicker and Mark Seifter from Roll For Combat join Luis and Vanessa to talk about one of the most buzzworthy third party projects: Monster Training for Pathfinder 2e! Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 41 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Banana Chan a designer on the culturally inspired game Jiangshi: Blood in the Banquet Hall. Listen to learn more about how a culture can inspire different design choices from how dice work in the system to adding spirit paper as a component. […]
Our heroes locate one of the missing researchers, but must defeat a nanotech golem to save them! Listen Now!(mp3) *The GM is Ron Lundeen, an employee of Wizards of the Coast, whose opinions are his own.
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a leap of faith and look into one of Pathfinder’s deities: Sarenrae! They discuss the nature of Sarenrae and her faith, discuss whether each class is a good fit for Sarenrae, answer some listener questions about Sarenrae, and philosophize about the nature of Good and […]
John chatted with freelance editor and RPG author, plus Intrepid Heroes player, Stephanie Lundeen. Listen Now!(mp3)
Jason and John talk about the relationship between the various Starfinder adventure paths and hardcovers, and how ideas get pitched and developed in the Star Chamber. Listen Now!
Vanessa, Luis, and guest co-host Randal Meyer review the psychic as part of a Dark Archive sneak preview event Pathfinder content creators participated in. Find out all about the far seeing new Pathfinder 2e class! Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 40 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Jeff Chin and Andrew Nerger about their game Canvas which was a component first design. Inspired by translucent cards Jeff and Andrew worked to get creative prototyping this beautiful entry-level game that is now being distributed globally. Even the game box being […]
As our heroes explore the disconcerting bio-dungeon, they are attacked by a suit of animated armor! Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at the Second Edition’s magus. Follow along as they break down the magus class features, present their own magus builds, and talk about ways to maximize your magus action economy. If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us […]
John chatted Organized Play Regional Venture Captain (Great Lakes) and recent freelance author Brent Bowser about the affect of the pandemic on conventions and organized play, and also gets to meet the Regional Venture Cat, Bacon! Listen Now!(mp3)
Knights of Lastwall, the latest hardcover for the Pathfinder Lost Omens campaign setting line lets you take up arms against the Whispering Tyrant and his undead army. Luis Loza, Ryan Costello, and Dustin Knight breakdown this amazing addition to the Lost Omens line and goes chapter by chapter discussing the lifestyle, tools, and identities of […]
In episode 39 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Chris Rio the designer of Cheer Up! published by Cheer Up Games. He talks about designing a creative way to make a word game that removes the flaws of the games he saw already on the shelf. Also, how he’s made his […]
Our heroes encounter an underground complex made entirely of a squishy, yet firm material – it’s a spungeon! Listen Now!(mp3)
Come hear the Pathfinder Design team talk about the state of the game and give a preview of what’s to come in 2022 and beyond! Listen Now! (mp3)
Talk to the developers, authors, and editors of two Adventure Paths set in the Impossible Lands: the steampunk-themed Outlaws of Alkenstar and the undead intrigue-themed Blood Lords! Listen Now! (mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at Pathfinder’s halflings! They discuss the history of halflings in fantasy, note the various flavor and lore aspects of halflings, note how halflings fit into Pathfinder’s Lost Omens setting, and discuss the various mechanics tied to halflings. They also present a few sample […]
A celebration of all things Starfinder! Hear from past members of the team, veterans, and its newest members. From before the game’s launch in 2017 to its exciting future, this panel delves into the history of Starfinder and gives some hints on where the game may be going in the future. Listen Now! (mp3)
An in-depth look at how we run playtests here at Paizo, with a focus on engaging with the testers and data-driven feedback! Listen Now! (mp3)
John chatted Know Direction’s very own Nate Wright about his RPG freelance writing and his Eldritch Excursion blog on the Know Direction Network. Listen Now!(mp3)
Members of the Paizo Staff share their tips for GMing Pathfinder and Starfinder! Listen Now! (mp3)
Curious about playing Pathfinder virtually but not sure where to start? Join Paizo staff for a fun and informative walkthrough on the basics of virtual tabletops (VTTs), including our top tips for beginners and answers to all your VTT questions! Listen Now! (mp3)
Our adventurous heroes close the lid on the Lost Maid of Anactoria. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running a modified version of an adventure he wrote for Paizo, Pathfinder Society Scenario #2-17: Lost […]
Catch up with the Organized Play team as they chat about what’s coming this year! We’ll be revealing the title of Pathfinder Society Year 4 and talking about what’s next for Starfinder Society in the Year of Redemption’s Rise. Listen Now! (mp3)
What goes into the creation of an adventure for Golarion? What’s on the horizon and coming soon for the stand-alone adventure line? Join James Jacobs, Leo Glass, and PaizoCon Guest of Honor Vanessa Hoskins for the inside scoop! Listen Now! (mp3)
We’re not gonna tell you how Aroden died, but pretty much any other answer is up for revelation! Come to this seminar armed with your most burning questions about the mysteries of the Lost Omens campaign setting, and we’ll do our best to pull back the curtain and reveal the truth! Listen Now! (mp3)
Let’s make aliens! Join us as our panelists discuss how they design creatures to fit the needs of their stories, worlds, and encounters—all while they create a completely new creature with the audience. Listen Now! (mp3)
Help create an amazing new science-fantasy planet in this one-hour workshop on building worlds in Starfinder. We’ll discuss general concepts you can apply when designing locations in your Starfinder game and use tools like the Galaxy Exploration Manual and Starfinder Deck of Many Worlds to guide us. Listen Now! (mp3)
Ever wanted to publish your own material set in the Pathfinder or Starfinder settings? Now you can with Pathfinder and Starfinder Infinite, hosted on DriveThruRPG! Learn about the program and find out how to get started with members of Paizo’s staff and existing Infinite publishers. Listen Now! (mp3)
The paranormal secrets of the Dark Archive have remained hidden for too long! Join designers Logan Bonner & James Case and editors Avi Kool & K Tessa Newton as we unseal the casefiles and reveal classified info on the psychic and thaumaturge classes, new options, and stories from behind the scenes! Listen Now! (mp3)
Learn all about the adventures Paizo has planned for the Drift Crisis. This panel deep dives some of the upcoming plans for Adventures Paths, Modules, One-Shots, and Organized Play. Hear about what’s coming up and how you can be a part of Starfinder’s biggest event since its launch! Listen Now! (mp3)
Tragedy strikes the Starfinder setting’s hyperspace realm, creating chaos and opportunity in a galaxy-wide event called the Drift Crisis. Learn about this galaxy-wide event, the new Drift Crisis book, and how this can impact your campaign in countless ways! Listen Now! (mp3)
Foundry VTT is an installable client virtual tabletop software. Don’t know what that is? Want to learn more? This panel will get you started. Listen Now! (mp3)
Ron says goodbye to Digital Divination as he moves on to another company in the industry. Listen Now!
Paizo Publisher and Chief Creative Officer Erik Mona gives a peek at upcoming Paizo releases. Listen Now! (mp3)
Vanessa and Luis join each other after PaizoCon 2022’s conclusion to discuss their convention experiences and discuss the newly announced books for Pathfinder! Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 38 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Josh Kaplan a youtube reviewer and abstract game designer. Josh discusses having a game in print and selling out in a month and what happens to your game when a publisher’s company hits hard times. Plus, tips on how to pitch to […]
Our heroes venture into the frigid tundra and encounter some very strange festive decor! Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a leap of faith and look into one of Pathfinder’s deities: Gorum! They discuss the nature of Gorum and his faith, discuss whether each class is a good fit for Gorum, and answer some listener questions about Gorum. If you have questions or requests for […]
John chatted with Emerald City Lodge Venture Captain Jocelyn Hamilton about becoming the first GM to achieve both 5 Glyph status for Pathfinder 2e and 5 Nova status for Starfinder, as well as her extensive collection of Roll20 tables for both systems. Listen Now!(mp3)
We say goodbye to Perram after his 12 years of unbelievably outstanding service growing Know Direction to the network it is today. Ryan Costello joins Vanessa and Luis to reminisce about Know Direction’s history, the state of the network, and Perram’s future endeavors. Listen Now! (mp3)
Traveling a mere few miles, our Adventurous Heroes unmask the villain. But what follows, no one expected. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running a modified version of an adventure he wrote […]
John and Ron discuss the upcoming new release of Spelljammer for 5e and how it compares with Starfinder, plus a little Drift Crisis, and even a little travel info! Listen Now!
In episode 37 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Christopher Ryan Chan, one of the co-designers and the illustrator of the Night Cage published by Smirk & Dagger Games. We discuss creating a narrative when designing a horror themed board game using mechanics and art to create a feel that adds […]
This episode marks the beginning of our second season! Having previously completed Dawn of Flame, our intrepid heroes continue with high level adventures in the Devastation Ark Adventure Path, with GM Ron Lundeen and new player addition Eleanor Ferron! Listen Now!(mp3)
Alex, James, and Dustin talk to Paizo Senior Developer John Compton about the Drift Crisis event changing Starfinder FOREVER! Join us and learn about the creation of this galactic book. Listen Now! (mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at the Second Edition’s witch. Follow along as they break down the witch class features, present their own witch builds, and discuss the merits of the current witch design. If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on […]
John chatted with freelance author and Pathfinder content creator James Beck about his deadly d8 Youtube channel and his Pathfinder Infinite projects. Listen Now!(mp3)
Following their last lead takes our Adventurous heroes into a fiery yet familiar sitution. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running a modified version of an adventure he wrote for Paizo, Pathfinder Society […]
It’s episode 34 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. Having defeated the undead couatl, they continue to explore this new floor. They encounter unbudging doors, skulls that don’t talk, and more water with cool glimmering effects. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast […]
In preparation for an interview with RPG All-Stars, John and Ron make a list of tips and potential pitfalls for GMs and players switching over to Starfinder from other D20 games. Listen Now!
Knights of Lastwall, the latest hardcover for the Pathfinder Lost Omens campaign setting line lets you take up arms against the Whispering Tyrant and his undead army. Vanessa and her co-host Luis Loza, pulling double duty as the book’s developer, give you a special preview of Chapter 3, focused on new player options. Listen Now! […]
In episode 36 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Randy Flynn about his design Cascadia published by Flatout Games. This tile-laying puzzle game of building habitats and expanding your wildlife has become so popular that it has been printed in various languages. Randy talks about his experience developing the game with […]
Our heroes complete their deal with the void hags and finally make their way out of the sun. This episode concludes the Dawn of Flame Adventure Path from Paizo. Join us in two weeks as our intrepid heroes continue with high level adventures in the Devastation Ark Adventure Path, with GM Ron Lundeen and new […]
Alex, James, and Vanessa tell of the doom and chaos coming to Starfinder in the form of The Drift Crisis! This is a year long event (complete with rulebook) that will change the galaxy forever… you don’t want to miss it! Listen Now! (mp3)
Our Adventurous heroes narrow the suspects down to The Whispering Tyrant and Baba Yaga. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running a modified version of an adventure he wrote for Paizo, Pathfinder Society […]
In episode 35 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Mary Flanagan about her co-design Phantom Ink published by her company Resynom Games. She speaks about her experience starting on the video game side during the “.com boom” in the early 90s to transitioning to tabletop games. Mary is an artist, designer, […]
Paizo Design Lead Logan Bonner joins Vanessa and Luis to dig into the Book of the Dead, a tome of rules and lore all about fighting undead, allying with undead, and becoming undead. PLUS a ton of adjustments and monsters for adding more undead in your 2nd Edition game! Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes come face to face with the instigator of the war within the sun – General Khaim! Listen Now!(mp3)
John chatted with PaizoCon Online Committee Chair, Southern Indiana Venture Captain, and freelance RPG author Mike Bramnik about how he got started and what folks might need to know about PaizoCon online! Listen Now!(mp3)
It’s episode 33 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. Having moved down to the next level of the temple, they now face off with an undead couatl! There’s fighting, last second shield raises, and an attempt to pull one over on the GM. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is […]
Having recovered from last week’s technical problems, John and Ron discuss the high level play in the Devastation Ark Adventure Path, along with the importance of teamwork. Listen Now!
In episode 34 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Amelie Le-Roche a co-designer and artist of Synchronized published by her company Zerua Games. Amelie talks about how they took a suggested theme and turned it into a game. How the “fun” was there from the initial playtest which motivated them to […]
Paizo Development Manager Ron Lundeen joins Vanessa and Luis to discuss the announcement of the Abomination Vaults adventure path for 5th Edition D&D. What does this mean for Paizo, Pathfinder, and the future of the adventure path line? Listen Now! (mp3)
With no respite, our heroes are confronted by a pack of fiery dog-like creatures and their handlers! Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, we talk about Paizo’s newly announced conversion of the Abomination Vaults adventure path over to Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, along with major changes at Paizo scheduled to start this very day! If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction […]
Loren and Luis talk about why fantasy RPGs seem to be so much more popular than sci-fi RPGs and the massive variety of sci-fi games. Listen Now!
To celebrate this week’s release of Renegade Game Studios new G.I. JOE Roleplaying Game, Upshift host and one of the book’s authors Ryan Costello answered your questions live on Discord. Listen Now! (mp3)
John chatted RPG freelance author Lysle Kapp about how he got started writing back in the day, plus how RPG freelance writing compares to writing legal briefs. Listen Now!(mp3)
Ambushed in the bog by well dressed skeletons, can our Adventurous heroes keep themselves and Evgeni alive? Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running a modified version of an adventure he […]
It’s episode 32 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. They move down to the next level of the temple, travel through some strange doors, and run into some ants who are quite reasonable all things considered. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast […]
Ron and John talk about the Precog that Ron is playing in the Starfinder Horizons of the Vast adventure path. Listen Now!
In episode 33 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Emerson Matsuuchi the designer of Century: Spice Road, Century: Eastern Wonders, Century: A New World and the Golem Editions published by Plan B Games. Emerson talks about one lighting in a bottle game Century: Spice Road, plus designing two follow up games […]
Vanessa and Luis get the scoop on Book of the Dead! They’re joined by Mark Seifter, a developer and author for this book, to talk about all of the fantastic options for living player characters in Chapter 1: Prayers for the Living! Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes hack an elevator and find themselves in a world of hurt when the doors open! Listen Now!(mp3)
Alex, James, and Vanessa look at how the Precog turned out in publication, point out some of the big differences, and give the class an overall shakedown! Punch girls not included. Listen Now! (mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at Pathfinders goblins! They discuss the history of goblins fantasy, note the various flavor and lore aspects of goblins, note how goblins fit into Pathfinder’s Lost Omens setting, and discuss the various mechanics tied to goblins. They also present a few sample goblins, […]
John chatted Paizo Technical Editor and freelance author Simone D. Sallé about how she got her start and began working for Paizo. Listen Now!(mp3)
The investigation takes our Adventurous heroes to the home of the lost Maid of Anactoria. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running a modified version of an adventure he wrote for […]
It’s episode 31 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. They face off with an undead, collect some keys, and what happens next shocks them. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is […]
John and Ron explain the charter system that is used for exploration and settlement building in the Starfinder Horizons of the Vast adventure path. Listen Now!
In episode 32 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Ryan Courtney the designer of Pipeline published by Capstone Games. Ryan created an amazing business simulation about the refinement of oil and how it has been a part of the government-controlled energy sector. He talks about making his design incredibly thematic but […]
Vanessa and Luis go in-depth on their background and influences in tabletop role-playing games, sharing their passion and approach to the craft. Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes get badly wounded taking on yet another large mob of fiery enemies! Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at the Second Edition’s swashbuckler. Follow along as they break down the swashbuckler class features, present their own swashbuckler builds, have some trouble with the Viking Test, and present what Loren calls the most powerful build Luis has ever made! If you have […]
John chatted freelance author, game designer, and new Know Direction staff member Michelle Jones about her writing and work on behalf of Black creators in the RPG industry. Listen Now!(mp3)
New GM Scott D Young brings the old Adventurous crew into a new edition of Pathfinder, running the first session of a modified version of an adventure he wrote for Paizo, Pathfinder Society Scenario #2-17: Lost Maid of Anactoria. Listen Now! (mp3) Young and Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. GM Scott […]
In honor of Black History Month, The Know Direction Network’s Michelle Jones reached out to noteworthy black RPG industry creators. Navaar Jackson, Trey Joiner, Kandi Jeanne, and Quinn Murphy join us tonight to discuss their contributions to gaming. Listen Now! (mp3) Show Links https://twitter.com/SecretNrdSocial https://www.instagram.com/secretnerdpodcast/ https://navaarsnp.itch.io/the-last-detective https://twitter.com/StationUkuwa https://www.instagram.com/ukuwa_station/ https://nhp-shaka.itch.io/mfecane-field-guide https://twitter.com/kandi_jeanne https://twitter.com/DiceyAmazons https://kandi-jeanne.itch.io/ https://twitter.com/qh_murphy
It’s episode 30 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. They face off with a monster with a long tongue and find a new treasure. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is […]
Last August, at RenegadeCon Virtual Special Edition, Renegade Game Studios hit the ground running. We finally saw the first look at the Power Rangers, G.I. JOE, and Transformers RPGs. With that in mind, RenegadeCon 2022 is a two day event next weekend, Friday, March 4th, and Saturday, March 5th. We’re here to talk about what’s […]
John and Ron discuss both the past and the future of Digital Divination, along with a special announcement to mark the 50th episode! Listen Now!
In episode 31 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Move38’s Founder & CEO Jon Bobrow about the Blinks System. His system was created as a mash-up between a toy, video game and board game using electronic hexicon tiles that each hold a single game. Each tile will train the others in […]
Ryan, standing in for Perram, joins Vanessa to talk with Bill and Jon from Beadle and Grimm’s! They discuss the successful launch of the Character Chronicles books and their new Gold Edition of Absalom: City of Lost Omens boxed set! Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes just manage to finish off one mob, and then suddenly get faced with yet another!. Listen Now!(mp3)
Paizo’s Development Manger Linda Zayas-Palmer and Starfinder Society Developer Jessica Catalan join Alex and Vanessa to discuss the end of the Starfinder Society Season 4 Data Scurge and the beginning of Season 5, including one of three new factions! Listen Now! (mp3)
Special guest Starfinder Senior Developer John Compton join Alex and Vanessa to gush about the changes to the Evolutionist class as it adapts to it’s place in the Starfinder class lineup. Listen Now! (mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at another one of the meta-regions for the Lost Omens setting, the Saga Lands. Follow along as they give you a tour of the region and its nations, discuss the types of campaigns suitable for the region, and discuss character ideas that would […]
John chatted Coyote & Crow designer and publisher Connor Alexander about his unique new game and the successful Kickstarter for it, including the challenge of building an all indigenous team of writers and artists for a game set in the uncolonized future.. Listen Now!(mp3)
It’s episode 29 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. They deal with the fallout of pushing more buttons than they should and investigate some new rooms in the temple. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know […]
John and Ron talk about beginning the Horizons of the Vast Starfinder Adventure Path and how it compares to Kingmaker! Listen Now!
In episode 30 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Conor McGoey, the founder of Inside Up Games as well as the designer behind Summit, Vault Assault, Gorus Maximus, and more! Summit was not only his first published game but it had a competitive, cooperative and solo mode attached to it. Learn […]
Grady and Theo from Queerfinder -currently the most popular product on Pathfinder Infinite- join Perram, Luis, and Vanessa to talk about the niche Queerfinder fills, putting the first issue together, and how they feel about it’s popularity. Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes get ambushed as they try to release prisoners from the brig. Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Loren discusses her plan to create a contest to determine the greatest sword fighting build in Pathfinder 2E. Working with Luis, she covers the details of her plan and lays down some ground rules for the contest set to be held at a later time. If you have questions […]
John chatted Nicole Lindroos, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Green Ronin Publishing, about how the company got started as well as her extensive history in the tabletop RPG industry.. Listen Now!(mp3)
It’s episode 28 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. They meet with Qarnoz yet again and pose several questions to their skeletal acquaintance. Also, they shockingly succeed and then proceed to utterly fail with dealing with a trap! Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual […]
Ryan and Perram test the format for the Know Direction Network’s Essence20 news, previews, and interviews podcast. They introduce themselves, cover some of the recent Essence20 news, and then take the Power Rangers RPG character creation rules for a test drive by reinterpreting G.I. JOE’s Snake Eyes as a Green Ranger (available here). All the […]
John and Ron talk about the sections of Galactic Magic they wrote, plus John hints at a hidden MCU reference in SFS Bounty #1! Listen Now!
In episode 29 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Graham Gentz, a writer and designer on “Savage Sisters.” He also performs with 9th Level Games as “Fomo” the kobold puppet. Savage Sisters was designed by Adriel Wilson and uses the Polymorph RPG system designed by Chris O’Neill. Learn more about the […]
Thursty, Zoren the Bear, and the War Hams crew are adventuring through the new dark world of Rotgrind. Join us as one of the most creative designers in gaming introduces us to this new Pathfinder world. Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes finally make their way to the Crucible in the fiery center of the sun, where the crew learns more about the physics of the sun, and Julakashti learns the downside to being swallowed whole! Listen Now!(mp3)
Alex, James, and Vanessa review Galactic Magic, the newest offering for Starfinder that includes the new Precog class, over 100 spells, and tons of magical lore about the Starfinder setting! Listen Now! (mp3)
John chatted freelance author and organized play coordinator Rigby Bendele about their extensive experience and how they got started. Listen Now!(mp3)
Ron and John talk about kicking off a new high level Starfinder adventure, as well as the delightful Marrying Mr. Darcy board game! Listen Now!
In episode 28 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Austin Foss (Pops) and Jenna Radtke (Bejou) otherwise known as part of the Pops & Bejou team and the designers of CULTivate. Pops & Bejou started as a friendship formed in college that turned into a publisher at the beginning of COVID-19. […]
New Know Direction podcast hosts Luis Loza and Vanessa Hoskins join Perram to breakdown the last Pathfinder 2e hardcover of 2021, Lost Omens: Monsters of Myth. Listen Now! (mp3)
Mark will be leading their new Battlezoo line of RPG Products for Pathfinder and Dungeons and Dragons. Mark and Stephen join us to chat about the new initiative and what to expect! Listen Now! (mp3)
An alien creature has laid a trap for our heroes and boarded their vessel! Listen Now!(mp3)
John chatted with Rob Pontious, a Know Direction blogger, an Order of the Amber Die member, and a player in both Know Direction’s Valiant and Roll for Combat’s Three Ring Adventure actual plays. Listen Now!(mp3)
We take a break from our normal gaming to chat about what happened in 2021, as well as give a glimpse into what we’ll be doing in 2022. Listen Now!(mp3)
This is it, the last Know Direction podcast episode of the year! Know Direction Network staff and cast joining Ryan and Perram for a celebration of the best of 2021. We had so much fun last year, and have grown so much over the years, we’ve added an extra hour to this episode to try […]
In episode 27 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Gwen Ruelle, one of the designers of Fire Tower and co-owner of Runaway Parade Games. Gwen talks about taking her love of cooperative game elements and using it to make a fire tower burning game of winds changing and friends working to […]
Ron and John talk about the year that was for Starfinder in an end of the year retrospective. Listen Now!
John chatted with Great Lakes Region Venture Captain and freelance author Ivis K. Flanagan. Listen Now!(mp3)
Our heroes dive into the sun and receive some unexpected and very unusual guests! Listen Now!(mp3)
Hero Forge® CEO, Teagan Morrison, joins Ryan and Perram to talk about the history of Hero Forge® and some exciting changes coming up soon! Find out how to have layered clothing, two characters at once or even ELEVEN ARMS! As well as how Hero Forge grew to be the one of the most used sites […]
In episode 26 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Glenn Drover, owner of Forbidden Games and designer of Raccoon Tycoon. A game that has players buying and selling goods from a marketplace, doing quick actions, and set collecting adorable animals and their railroads. Glenn was inspired by Catan and Monopoly wanting […]
John and Ron talk about synergizing a party and creating characters for high level Starfinder play. Listen Now!
How does technology in Starfinder even work? And why can’t I call my friend in the Veskarium from my apartment in Absalom Station? Listen Now! (mp3)
It’s episode 27 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. They encounter some gross sahkils and fight the evil fiends! Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an original, homebrew creation set […]
John chatted with Online Region Venture Officer and freelance author Nicole Heits. Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren and special guest Ryan Costello discuss some of their favorite Pathfinder products from 2021. They chat about their favorites in the rulebook and Lost Omens lines, as well as provide some anecdotes about Abomination Vaults. If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out […]
Special guest GM Jason Tondro joins the crew for the final book of the adventure path and gets to know the players a bit before diving in. Listen Now!(mp3)
Ryan and Perram breakdown all 400+ pages of the latest Lost Omens hardcover, with Paizo’s Chief Creative Officer, as well as Absalom, City of Lost Omens Development Lead, Editing Lead, and, frankly, its champion, Erik Mona. Listen Now (mp3)
In episode 25 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Danielle Deley and Nathan Thornton about their game Medium, an improv-inspired party game that helps players sync minds and search for words that link together to score points. It’s a game that’s as fun to lose as it is to win. Listen […]
John and Ron welcome special guests from the Intrepid Heroes actual play podcast to to chat about running and playing in Starfinder Adventure Paths. Listen Now!
John chatted with Singaporean freelance author Tan “Shao” Han about his writing, publishing company, and research into table top RPGs. Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take some time to chat about all the stuff they would like to see in Pathfinder that Paizo won’t make themselves. They discuss potential new classes and products, including a guide to vikings! If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us […]
Our heroes conclude book four of the adventure with a deadly battle against a mighty solar dragon! Listen Now!(mp3)
For the first time in a long time, Ryan and Perram hand you, the listener, a quill, parchment, and the power to write the outline for the episode. What would you like to hear them talk about? Gaming, podcast production, personal interests, the past, present, and future are all valid topics. Post what you want […]
In episode 24 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication, Danielle talks with Ryan Laukat, the designer and illustrator of Sleeping Gods, Above and Below, Near and Far, and more. Ryan is the co-owner of Red Raven Games as well as a triple threat of game designer, artist, and storyteller. In this episode, he discusses […]
With Thanksgiving approaching in the U.S., Ron and John talk about the things they are thankful for, both in Starfinder and in life. Listen Now!
Alex, James, and Vanessa chat all about mechs! What does it require for a vehicle to be a mech, why mechs and powered armor are different, and how mechs in Starfinder are ABSOLUTELY fantastic! Listen Now! (mp3)
It’s episode 26 and our Valiant heroes continue their journey through the Temple of the Whisperer. They encounter Qarnoz, the skeleton, and then proceed to move on and face threat of an assassination! Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The […]
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at the Second Edition’s oracle. Follow along as they break down the oracle class features, present their own oracle builds, and stretch the Batman test further than ever before! If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on […]
Our heroes continue to fight their way up the Spire and are nearly to the top! Listen Now!(mp3)
Luis Loza joins Ryan and Perram to break down the latest hardcover for the Pathfinder Lost Omens line: Grand Bazaar. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 23 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication, we kick off season 2 talking with Kathleen Mercury, an educator, and board game designer. Her first published design Greece Lightning started with her decision to co-design with Mark Sellmeyer on his space-themed game about black holes. This game developed into a push-your-luck, roll-and-move race […]
Recorded on the eve of Halloween, Ron and John talk about different ways to incorporate horror into Starfinder campaigns. Listen Now!
Paizo’s Shay Snow and influential freelancer Jessica Redekop join Perram and Vanessa Hoskins to discuss the groundbreaking United Paizo Workers, Paizo voluntarily recognizing the union, and how Paizo staff and freelancers made this monumental event happen. Listen Now! (mp3)
It’s episode 25 and our Valiant heroes are delving deeper into the Temple of the Whisperer. They descend down to the next floor and continue their exploration, before running into a ghostly being. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The […]
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at Pathfinders elves! They discuss the origins of elves in fantasy, note the various flavor and lore aspects of elves, note how elves fit into Pathfinder’s Lost Omens settings, and discuss the various mechanics tied to elves. They also present a few sample […]
John chatted with Andrew White and Jason Tondro about the historic recognition of the United Paizo Workers union, what precipitated it, and what comes next. Listen Now!(mp3)
Got a question about Starfinder rules or lore? Want to know what it is like working on TTRPGs? Paizo’s editorial staffers provide answers in this open-ended audience-participation Q&A session! Listen Now! (mp3)
Paizo’s Michael Sayre joins Ryan and Perram to break down Pathfinder Guns & Gears! Does this book go boom? Yes, yes it does. In the best ways. Listen Now! (mp3)
Got a question about Pathfinder rules or lore? Want to know what it is like working on TTRPGs? Paizo’s editorial staffers provide answers in this open-ended audience-participation Q&A session! Listen Now! (mp3)
John and Ron talk about building, playing, and writing about mechs in Starfinder. Listen Now!
Paizo editorial staff discuss how to get started as a freelancer in this informative seminar designed to showcase tips and strategies to help you get your foot in the door as an author. Listen Now! (mp3)
The Adventure Path development teams take a close look at upcoming campaigns and answers your questions about Adventure Paths past, present, and future. Listen Now! (mp3)
Join Know Direction staff and Jenny Jarzabski, Line Developer for Paizo’s Starfinder Society Organized Play program, as they discuss the future of organized play, upcoming projects, and working in the TTRPG industry. Listen Now! (mp3)
KD staffers Vanessa Hoskins and Dustin Knight cap off the launch of Pathfinder Infinite by hanging out with our listeners, reflecting on how the launch went, and what they expect for the Infinite’ future. Listen Now!
It’s episode 24 and our Valiant heroes are delving deeper into the Temple of the Whisperer. They recover after their fight and begin dealing with a puzzling set of doors. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an […]
Join Know Direction staff as they interview Avi Kool, Paizo’s Senior Editor for the Pathfinder RPG, about upcoming projects and working in the TTRPG industry. Listen Now! (mp3)
John chatted with Know Direction blogger, podcaster, and popular actual play participant Loren Sieg!. Listen Now!(mp3)
Our heroes destroy a mag-train as they prepare for the final assault on the spire. Listen Now!(mp3)
Paizo editorial staffers lead a discussion on finding and engaging creators that embrace diverse viewpoints to work towards a more inclusive industry. Listen Now! (mp3)
Join Paizo editorial staffers as they take a peek at 2022’s stand-alone adventure production for the Pathfinder and Starfinder RPGs. Listen Now! (mp3)
Know Direction’s own Vanessa Hoskins and Owen KC Stephens have Pathfinder Infinite plans. They join Ryan and Perram to give an author and a publisher’s take on Paizo’s new Community Content program. Listen Now! (MP3)
Pathfinder Design Team members talk about upcoming releases for the Pathfinder RPG, including Book of the Dead and beyond. Listen Now! (mp3)
Ron and John talk about Paizo’s Starfinder Infinite, a new publishing collaboration with DriveThruRPG that allows for third-party content using the characters, creatures, and settings of the Starfinder tabletop roleplaying game beginning on October 13, 2021. Listen Now!
Delve into the world of Golarion through the Lost Omens campaign setting for the Pathfinder (second edition) RPG. Come learn about upcoming projects and ask questions about prior releases. Listen Now! (mp3)
Join Know Direction staff as they interview Paizo’s Director of Game Design about upcoming projects, streaming games on Twitch, and his decades of involvement in the TTRPG industry. Listen Now! (mp3)
With Ryan a designer and a fan of Renegade Game Studios’ Essence20 Roleplaying System, he and Perram geek out about Power Rangers, G.I. JOE, Transformers, and their upcoming roleplaying games. Listen Now!
Take a sneak peek into the contents of the upcoming Starfinder RPG rulebook slated for release in December 2021, as presented by the Starfinder editorial team! Listen Now! (mp3)
It’s episode 23 and our Valiant heroes are delving deeper into the Temple of the Whisperer. They find the first bits of what will be a very involved puzzle and get into another fight. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. […]
Paizo Organized Play developers and program staff discuss upcoming storylines, convention appearances, future plans for the Starfinder Society and Pathfinder Society organized play programs. Listen Now! (mp3)
John chatted with third party publisher Paul Fields about his company, Evil Robot Games, as well as the impact of Starfinder Infinite. Listen Now!(mp3)
Join Paizo Design Team members for an in-depth discussion of the upcoming Pathfinder Guns & Gears rulebook, releasing October 2021. Listen Now! (mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren wrap up their look at one of the meta-regions for the Lost Omens setting, the Mwangi Expanse. Follow along as they cover the new ancestries, gods, and monsters found throughout the region. (Note: Due to tech issues, Luis’s audio for the first half of the episode […]
Join Paizo Publisher and Chief Creative Officer Erik Mona for a peek at upcoming Paizo releases! Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes battle a fierce fire giant to recover some important relics. Listen Now!(mp3)
Ryan and Perram cover all of the news from Gen Con 2021: New book announcements, the new classes playtest, and, of course, #paizoaccountability. Listen Now! (mp3)
John and Ron talk about what has been going on at Paizo this past week, plus some of the cool products announced at GenCon. Listen Now!
Alex and Vanessa review the new Nanocyte class in Tech Revolution. This might be the biggest class yet! Listen Now! (mp3)
John chatted with Paizo Pathfinder Designer James Case about joining as an Editor, then becoming a Developer, and finally a Designer. Listen Now!(mp3)
The thrilling conclusion! Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring: GM Jason Keeley; Ryan Costello as Glahda Stern, human champion of Abadar Jefferson Jay Thacker (aka Perram) as The Professor, human necromancer Alexander Augunas as Koji Kishimono, kitsune monk Dustin Knight as Dustin as Kuro Kishimono, kitsune witch And Jessica Redekop as Aramilla, tiefling diabolic sorcerer.
Our heroes battle a squad of enemies to recapture the silver Protector’s Chariot! Listen Now!(mp3)
Ryan and Perram fumble their way through the Gen Con 2021 Paizo Schedule (Only saved by chat! Thanks gang!) And then talk about Owl Cat’s new Wrath of the Righteous PC Game! Listen Now! (mp3)
John chatted with Paizo Pathfinder Developer and Know Direction Staff member Luis Loza about freelance writing and game development. Listen Now!(mp3)
Koji sees this and thinks “I want that around my neck.” Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring: GM Jason Keeley; Ryan Costello as Glahda Stern, human champion of Abadar Jefferson Jay Thacker (aka Perram) as The Professor, human necromancer Alexander Augunas as Koji Kishimono, kitsune monk Dustin Knight as Dustin as Kuro Kishimono, kitsune witch And Jessica […]
Our heroes search for a Protector’s Chariot and find a well stocked armory along the way! Listen Now!(mp3)
Secrets of Magic kicks off a new era of Pathfinder RPG hardcover products. With exciting new options like the Magus and Summoner, excerpts from in-world texts on magical theory, new subsystems and alternate spellcasting, and further pushing the boundaries of an RPG rulebook’s visual presentation, there’s a lot of Secrets of Magic to breakdown. Fortunately, […]
Danielle and Denice talk about some favorite moments and lessons learned thanks to season 1’s guest designers. As well as where they are in their current game design journeys. We say farewell to Denice from the show and about the show coming back in late Fall with a refresh for season 2! Listen Now! (mp3) […]
Ron and John talk about the first book of the Horizons of the Vast Adventure Path, Planetfall, written by Ron Lundeen! Listen Now!
Starfinder’s newest base class, the Evolutionist, is currently in play test. What’s this class all about? What’s the initial feedback after a few weeks of playtests? How does the Evolutionist make Starfinder evolve? The Know Direction Beyond team speaks with the class’ designer, John Compton, about Starfinder’s Evolutionist. Listen Now! (mp3)
It’s episode 22 and our Valiant heroes are making their first steps into the Temple of the Whisperer. They encounter a strange boundary and surprisingly tough rock monster. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an original, homebrew […]
John chatted with Starfinder and Pathfinder freelance author Scott D. Young. Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren continue their look at one of the meta-regions for the Lost Omens setting, the Mwangi Expanse. Follow along as they cover the various ancestral and ethnic groups of the region. If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know […]
Ah! A totally real ghost! Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring: GM Jason Keeley; Ryan Costello as Glahda Stern, human champion of Abadar Jefferson Jay Thacker (aka Perram) as The Professor, human necromancer Alexander Augunas as Koji Kishimono, kitsune monk Dustin Knight as Dustin as Kuro Kishimono, kitsune witch And Jessica Redekop as Aramilla, tiefling diabolic sorcerer. […]
The ally our heroes seek to liberate fights back against them rather than gain their freedom! Listen Now!(mp3)
The Battle Zoo Bestiary -collecting the winning entry’s of Roll For Combat’s RPG Superstar– is coming soon to Kickstarter. Stephen Glicker and Mark Seifter join Ryan and Perram to go over what to expect from the Kickstarter, from the book and beyond. Listen Now! (mp3)
Danielle and Denice speak with Vanessa Hoskins, their first RPG designer. The Know Direction Network’s own Vanessa talks about RPGs, Pathfinder, and writing part 2 of the Abomination Vaults. Her extensive credits and knowledge on RPGs will help listeners dip their toes into RPG design and game play, as well as learn how to get […]
Ron returns from vacation and he and John talk about the Evolutionist Playtest. Listen Now!
It’s episode 21 and our Valiant heroes have arrived at the Temple of the Whisperer. They quickly learn about some strangeness related to the temple and take the fight to some really weird pigs. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. […]
John chatted with Pete Zupan from the Rise of the Rulelords, a Pathfinder Second Edition educational podcast. Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at one of the meta-regions for the Lost Omens setting, the Mwangi Expanse. Follow along as they give you a tour of the area and its locales, from city states to new nations to dangerous regions. If you have questions or requests for […]
Our heroes break into the occupier’s prison to liberate an important ally! Listen Now!(mp3)
Everyone at a Pathfinder table plays at least one character. What makes a character good? What makes them fun for the player versus fun for everyone else? What role do mechanics play? We’re looking forward to a lively conversation about characters past, present, and future. With author Neal Litherland of the Improved Initiative blog. Listen […]
In episode 20 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Jonathan Gilmour, the designer behind Dead of Winter, Mental Blocks, Wasteland Express Delivery Service, Kids on Bikes, Dinosaur Island and so many other games and expansions! Jonathan is known for his ability to predict what themes or mechanics are going to be […]
Starfinder Developer Jason Tondro co-hosts while Ron is on vacation. John and Jason chat about superheros and developing new Starfinder classes. Well mostly it’s about superheros. Warning – Black Widow Spoilers Ahead! Listen Now!
The Mwangi Expanse, broke ground with its deep look at Pathfinder’s African analog. But the lore isn’t the only exciting information in the latest Pathfinder hardcover. Join authors Michelle Jones and Nate Wright to breakdown the six new ancestries and over a dozen new creatures in the bestiary. Listen Now! (mp3)
Content Warning: Misgendering (There’s a gag with a character who is unclear about other characters’ genders and it’s not great. If you’d like to skip past that, the gag starts at 6:03 in the episode and is done at 8:58.) It’s episode 20 and our Valiant heroes are leaving the Urmavin oasis. Once they do, […]
John chatted with Know Direction staff member and RPG freelancer Randal Meyer. Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at the Second Edition’s investigator. Follow along as they break down the investigator class features, present their own investigator builds, answer some listener questions, and give you tips on how to make the most of the That’s Odd feat in your games! If […]
What creatures will our band of adventurers find inside the fish camp main building? Totally unrelated trigger warning: arachnophobia. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring: GM Jason Keeley; Ryan Costello as Glahda Stern, human champion of Abadar Jefferson Jay Thacker (aka Perram) as The Professor, human necromancer Alexander Augunas as Koji Kishimono, kitsune monk Dustin Knight as Dustin […]
The latest Pathfinder hardcover, Lost Omens – The Mwangi Expanse, bursts with so much amazing content, we’re splitting our breakdown of the book in two. In part 1, we look at the new information about the setting, its people, and its history. With authors Allie Bustion and Jabari Weathers. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 19 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk about Bez Shahriari’s game Kittycataclysm. From trimming down the design to make a quicker playing game to interweaving cat puns into a mechanically solid design. We learn about deciding to balance versus leaning into the power of a card. As well as learning […]
John and Ron also talk about Envoys, Space Dungeons, and Book 1 of the Horizons of the Vast Adventure Path, written by Ron. Listen Now!
Former Paizo and WotC developer Chris Sims joins Perram to talk about how we can use our understanding of the worst of our history to help make our fantasy cultures deeper and more complex with his Nazi rules. Listen Now! (mp3)
Starfinder Tech Revolution design lead, John Compton, joins Alex and James to take a closer look at the nanocyte, Starfinder’s newest class, as well as the other cutting-edge technologies introduced in this book. Listen Now! (mp3)
John had the opportunity to chat with Lyz Liddell, current Editing Manager for Magic: The Gathering, and former editor, writer, and designer for Pathfinder, Starfinder, and Pathfinder 2nd Edition. Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at Pathfinders gnomes! They discuss the origins of gnomes in fantasy, note the various flavor and lore aspects of gnomes, note how gnomes fit into Pathfinder’s Lost Omens settings, and discuss the various mechanics tied to gnomes. They also present a few sample […]
Our Otari troublemakers go from one life threatening battle to another. From raising skeletons to tossing around ancestors, dropping the hammer, and blasts of fire and lightning, everyone learns just what their new allies can do in a fight. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring: GM Jason Keeley; Ryan Costello as Glahda Stern, human champion of Abadar Jefferson […]
In episode 18 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Maxine Ekl, the designer of Think Ahead, High & Low Poker, Dual Value Playing Cards, and Stripes! Maxine is one of the co-organizers for Chicago’s Protospiel and co-owner of Clever Playing Cards. She’s a large fan of designing card games and her […]
Ron received a promotion! John and Ron also talk about making the switch from online gaming back to in-person play. Listen Now!
It’s episode 19 and our Valiant heroes are traveling through the Goldcliff Mountains. While there, they encounter an interesting oasis that holds some secrets. Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an original, homebrew creation set in the […]
John had the opportunity to chat with Pathfinder and Starfinder freelance author Kendra Leigh Speedling. Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at one of the meta-regions for the Lost Omens setting, the Eye of Dread. Follow along as they give you a tour of the spooky region and its nations, discuss the types of campaigns suitable for the region, take a look at the […]
With an eye for the supernatural, contract law, and teachable moments, a motely band gets together to investigate a haunted fishery. Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring: GM Jason Keeley; Ryan Costello as Glahda Stern, human champion of Abadar Jefferson Jay Thacker (aka Perram) as The Professor, human necromancer Alexander Augunas as Koji Kishimono, kitsune monk Dustin […]
Pathfinder has had a long and wonderful history on its journey from risky gamble, then most popular RPG in the world, and onwards to 2nd edition. Ryan and Perram give you a crash course on the weird and unexpected story that brought us here. Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 17 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Daryl Andrews designer of Sagrada, BOSK, 7 Summits, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Kodama 3D, Back to The Future Outatime and so many other games. Daryl shares his insights on going from hobbyist to designer thanks to an amazing local community of […]
Wait, that’s it? We’re already done PaizoCon Online 2021? We must be, since Ryan, Perram, and John wrap up the con with Paizo’s Aaron Shanks. Listen Now! (mp3)
Members of the Starfinder team talk about upcoming Starfinder adventures, the type of release with the most movement this year in how much and what type of material to expect. Listen Now! (mp3)
John and Ron talk about loot drops in Starfinder and how they might be adjusted for various campaigns. Listen Now!
Eleanor Ferron, one of the developers of the Lost Omens line of hardcovers, joins Ryan and Perram to dive deeper into the upcoming Lost Omens – Mwangi Expanse, detailing the last three ancestries introduced in to book. Listen Now! (mp3)
Pathfinder developers spotlight all of the material related to the Mwangi Expanse coming out this year. Listen Now! (mp3)
The Galaxy Exploration Manual lead designer, Joe Pasini, joins Alex and James to breakdown the new Starfinder hardcover.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Members of Paizo’s art department share their favourite recent pieces, and bring a crowdsourced monster idea to life.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Ryan, Perram, and the third member of the PaizoCon Online 2021 KD Con Team, John Godek, talk about PaizoCon Online 2021 so far.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Jason Keeley goes into greater detail with Ryan and Loren on the Starfinder Module he wrote, Junkers Delight, as well as other upcoming Starfinder adventures.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Members of the Starfinder team talk about upcoming Starfinder adventures, the type of release with the most movement this year in how much and what type of material to expect.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Logan Bonner sits down with Perram and Loren, diving deeper into the upcoming hardcover for the Pathfinder RPG line, Secrets of Magic.
Listen Now! (mp3)
It’s episode 18 and our Valiant heroes are setting out to the Temple of the Whisperer. They take some time to prepare their gear and then make a quick stop at the Skymark Mine.
Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an original, homebrew creation set in the Age of Lost Omens setting. The network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection.
Featuring: Avi as Sarna — CG half-orc human fighter
Follow Avi on Twitter @legalizegoblins
Rob Pontious as Ev’etaewayr — CG elf wizard
Follow Rob on Instagram @silentinfinity or Twitter @silentinfinity
Jessica Redekop as Xiadani — CG aasimar human druid
Follow Jessica on Instagram @tectonomancer or Twitter @tectonomancer
Owen K.C. Stephens as Seren D. Pious — CG halfling bard
Follow Owen on Facebook at OwenK.C.Stephens, Twitter @Owen_Stephens, or find his blog at his website, owenkcstephens.com
And Luis Loza as the Game Master
Follow Luis on Twitter @donatoclassic or find him at his website, luisloza.com
Additional Information: Valiant concept art banner by Noé Leyva
Valiant character art by Sebastian Rodriguez
The High Desert – AM by carvin_knowles licensed via Audio Micro.
Members of the Pathfinder design team preview what to get excited about in the upcoming hardcover release, Secrets of Magic.
Listen Now! (mp3)
A look at Paizo’s Beginning Years, with Erik Mona, James Jacobs, Sarah Robinson, and Jason Bulmahn.
Listen Now! (mp3)
John had the opportunity to chat with Kelly Pawlik, co-founder of Dire Rugrat Publishing and frequent contributor to Kobold Press.
Listen Now!(mp3)
Pathfinder Adventure Path Developer Patrick Renie talks to Ryan and Perram about the upcoming APs, with a focus on Fists of the Ruby Phoenix, and the newly announced Quest for the Frozen Flame.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Developers on Paizo’s Pathfinder team challenge you to take on the Fists of the Ruby Phoenix.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Ryan and Perram follow up on the Galaxy Exploration Manual with Starfinder Lead Designer Joe Pasini.
Listen Now! (mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at the Second Edition’s ranger. Follow along as they break down the ranger class features, present their own ranger builds, answer some listener questions, discuss background skills, and give a breakdown of the ranger’s role in the game!
If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
Featuring:
Luis Loza writer of Monstrous Physique and GM for Valiant.
Loren Sieg writer of Dear DovahQueen and Bend the Knee.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Get to know the Galaxy Exploration Manual with members of the Starfinder design and development team.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Erik Mona officially starts PaizoCon Online 2021, with the big reveals and announcements usually reserved for the Saturday night banquet.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Perram, Loren, and myself kick off PaizoCon Online 2021 with Paizo’s Aaron Shanks.
Listen Now! (mp3)
YouTube’s Nonat joins Ryan and Perram to discuss the news and announcements from PaizoCon Online 2021!
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 16 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Ryan Costello the designer of Orphans & Ashes, LFG Storytime with Dick, and a writer for various RPGs. Ryan pitched, designed, and developed Orphans & Ashes for Blind Ferret Entertainment based on their webcomic series Looking for Group. He worked to capture the dark humor and quirkiness of the webcomic characters to build a game designed with the fans in mind. He learned many valuable lessons about manufacturing and creating realistic manufacturing timelines as well as how to curate a board game subscription box while working for Blind Ferret. Ryan has worked his way into the gaming industry starting with creating the Know Direction podcast that currently hosts this show to landing a job with Blind Ferret and now Laughing Dragon. Ryan is a hobbyist turned game designer you can learn a lot from.
Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring:
Ryan Costello – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Denice – Host
John and Ron talk about PaizoCon Online 2021 as well as how to get inexperienced RPG players started into Starfinder.
Listen Now!
It’s episode 17 and our Valiant heroes track down the priestess from their prayers, meet up with a friend, and plan their visit to the Temple of the Whisperer.
Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an original, homebrew creation set in the Age of Lost Omens setting. The network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection.
Featuring: Avi as Sarna — CG half-orc human fighter
Follow Avi on Twitter @legalizegoblins
Rob Pontious as Ev’etaewayr — CG elf wizard
Follow Rob on Instagram @silentinfinity or Twitter @silentinfinity
Jessica Redekop as Xiadani — CG aasimar human druid
Follow Jessica on Instagram @tectonomancer or Twitter @tectonomancer
Owen K.C. Stephens as Seren D. Pious — CG halfling bard
Follow Owen on Facebook at OwenK.C.Stephens, Twitter @Owen_Stephens, or find his blog at his website, owenkcstephens.com
And Luis Loza as the Game Master
Follow Luis on Twitter @donatoclassic or find him at his website, luisloza.com
Additional Information: Valiant concept art banner by Noé Leyva
Valiant character art by Sebastian Rodriguez
You can see the map of Altameda here! Thanks to Jessica Khoury at Lizard Ink Maps for the map!
Pro RPG Audio: Old West Saloon soundscape by Plate Mail Games. Check out their work on their DriveThruRPG page!
The High Desert – AM by carvin_knowles licensed via Audio Micro.
John had the opportunity to chat with Know Direction’s very own Perram!
Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at their first Pathfinder Second Edition ancestry: dwarves! They discuss the origins of dwarves in fantasy, note the various flavor and lore aspects of dwarves, note how dwarves fit into Pathfinder’s Lost Omens settings, and discuss the various mechanics tied to dwarves. They also present a few sample dwarves, try out their dwarf accents, and answer listener questions.
If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
Featuring:
Luis Loza writer of Monstrous Physique and GM for Valiant.
Loren Sieg writer of Dear DovahQueen and Bend the Knee.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes prepare for their journey to a war zone, and find out a saboteur is traveling with them!
Listen Now!(mp3)
PaizoCon Online is next week! Join Ryan and Perram in finding out what to expect from Paizo’s Public Relations Manager Aaron Shanks and Organized Play Associate Alex Speidel.
Listen Now (MP3)
We talk with Josh Wood, a developer at AEG and game designer of Santa Monica, the Tiny Towns Expansions, and Cat Lady. Josh talks about the differences between developing and designing games as well as the heartwarming stories from Cat Lady’s design journey.
Featuring:
Listen Now! (mp3) Josh Wood – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Denice – Host
Alex and James talk the talk about Starfinder’s surprisingly nuanced NPC creation process, then walk the walk, turning live listener suggestions into an undead television signal that rots your brains.
Listen Now! (mp3)
It’s episode 16 and our Valiant heroes have to decide what to do next on their adventures. When things aren’t as clear to them, they do the thing that makes the most sense: pray for help!
Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an original, homebrew creation set in the Age of Lost Omens setting. The network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection.
Featuring: Avi as Sarna — CG half-orc human fighter
Follow Avi on Twitter @legalizegoblins
Rob Pontious as Ev’etaewayr — CG elf wizard
Follow Rob on Instagram @silentinfinity or Twitter @silentinfinity
Jessica Redekop as Xiadani — CG aasimar human druid
Follow Jessica on Instagram @tectonomancer or Twitter @tectonomancer
Owen K.C. Stephens as Seren D. Pious — CG halfling bard
Follow Owen on Facebook at OwenK.C.Stephens, Twitter @Owen_Stephens, or find his blog at his website, owenkcstephens.com
And Luis Loza as the Game Master
Follow Luis on Twitter @donatoclassic or find him at his website, luisloza.com
Additional Information: Valiant concept art banner by Noé Leyva
Valiant character art by Sebastian Rodriguez
You can see the map of Altameda here! Thanks to Jessica Khoury at Lizard Ink Maps for the map!
Virtutes Instrumenti by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
The High Desert – AM by carvin_knowles licensed via Audio Micro.
John had the opportunity to chat with Kobold Press founder Wolfgang Baur.
Listen Now!(mp3)
We return to Stabby’s Group where it all began: Character creation. Ryan and Loren walk the players through the character creation process in these special 1-on-1 recordings before the special Stabby’s Group one-shot.
Featuring:
Loren Sieg writer of Dear DovahQueen and Bend the Knee.
Ryan Costello director of logistics at the Know Direction Network and cohost of the Know Direction podcast.
Stan! cartoonist, author, and game designer whose experience with tabletop RPGs dates back to the 70s, and work in the industry dates back to TSR.
Eleanor Langthorne actor, model, and lead singer of Vices Inc.
Meg the Dweeb ER nurse and cosplayer.
Bryan Stiltz Longtime gamer and game industry veteran.
Listen Now! (mp3)
As this book of the adventure comes to a close, Murdox makes a heroic sacrifice!
Listen Now!(mp3)
Designer Quinn Murphy is working on a solo version of Pathfinder 2e he calls Paragon mode. Tommy from the Black Dragon Gaming YouTube channel has experience running games for groups of less than the recommended 4. Together, they join Ryan and Perram to talk about running Pathfinder for small groups.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Special Thanks To
- Designer Quinn Murphy
- Tommy from Black Dragon Gaming
In episode 14 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Erica Hayes-Bouyouris about her co-design BOSK by Floodgate Games. Erica shares her insights on how to find a good co-design partner and what it was like as a woman diving headfirst into game design with the Canadian “Big Dogs”.
Featuring:
Listen Now! (mp3) Erica Hayes-Bouyouris – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ben Moy – Host
Denice – Host
John and Ron talk about vehicle chases in Starfinder and some recent changes that make them more fun.
Listen Now!
Ryan’s wanted to GM for a while now, but hasn’t made the time. After last Know Direction’s GM Style conversation, he couldn’t wait any longer. He invited anyone who wanted to join him in the Geek Together chat channel on Discord and improvise a game.
Attendance wasn’t what he hoped for.
But the fun had was exactly what he hoped for!
Listen Now!
It’s episode 15 and our Valiant heroes are back home and taking a break. We take a moment to get a feel for the direction of the campaign and for everyone to present their theories about what might come next. Finally, everyone takes some time to visit with Eilamesa to get some shopping done!
Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an original, homebrew creation set in the Age of Lost Omens setting. The network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection.
Featuring: Avi as Sarna — CG half-orc human fighter
Follow Avi on Twitter @legalizegoblins
Rob Pontious as Ev’etaewayr — CG elf wizard
Follow Rob on Instagram @silentinfinity or Twitter @silentinfinity
Jessica Redekop as Xiadani — CG aasimar human druid
Follow Jessica on Instagram @tectonomancer or Twitter @tectonomancer
Owen K.C. Stephens as Seren D. Pious — CG halfling bard
Follow Owen on Facebook at OwenK.C.Stephens, Twitter @Owen_Stephens, or find his blog at his website, owenkcstephens.com
And Luis Loza as the Game Master
Follow Luis on Twitter @donatoclassic or find him at his website, luisloza.com
Additional Information: Valiant concept art banner by Noé Leyva
Valiant character art by Sebastian Rodriguez
The High Desert – AM by carvin_knowles licensed via Audio Micro.
John had the opportunity to chat with freelance writer, artist, and game designer Jessica Redekop!
(Note this interview took place before she joined the staff at the Know Direction).
Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren take a look at the Second Edition’s sorcerer. Follow along as they break down the sorcerer class features, present their own sorcerer builds, answer some listener questions, discuss the feasibility of wearing explorer’s clothing, and settle once and for all what type of spell casters the kids at Hogwarts could be!
If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
Featuring:
Luis Loza writer of Monstrous Physique and GM for Valiant.
Loren Sieg writer of Dear DovahQueen and Bend the Knee.
Listen Now! (mp3)
Our heroes are confronted with a new foe who hides within a deceptive hall of mirrors!
Listen Now!(mp3)
Valiant GM and Paizo developer Luis Loza joins Ryan and Perram to talk about how they define their GMing style, and how that style defines their campaigns.
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 13 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Zachary Connelly on his game LOTS: A Competitive Tower Building Game. Zach speaks about designing his game with his son in mind. Plus, mistakes he made over various Kickstarters including the importance of having multiple people spell check your game. He also discusses how designing and redesigning games with component prices in mind can be a huge factor in if a game is going to be publishable. Learn more about being a hobby game designer/publisher from Zach in this episode of Game Design Unboxed.
Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring:
Zachary Connelly – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ben Moy – Host
Denice – Host
John and Ron discuss moving their actual play Starfinder game to another Virtual Table Top (VTT), including some pros and cons about the ones they have used.
Listen Now!
Alex, James, and Vanessa talk about the wonderful content brought to you by back matter! These articles have player options, monsters, and tons of lore for the Starfinder roleplaying game.
Listen Now! (mp3)
It’s episode 14 and our Valiant heroes seem to be done with the shadow warrior’s trials. Now all that’s left for them to figure out is how to get back home!
Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an original, homebrew creation set in the Age of Lost Omens setting. The network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection.
Featuring: Avi as Sarna — CG half-orc human fighter
Follow Avi on Twitter @legalizegoblins
Rob Pontious as Ev’etaewayr — CG elf wizard
Follow Rob on Instagram @silentinfinity or Twitter @silentinfinity
Jessica Redekop as Xiadani — CG aasimar human druid
Follow Jessica on Instagram @tectonomancer or Twitter @tectonomancer
Owen K.C. Stephens as Seren D. Pious — CG halfling bard
Follow Owen on Facebook at OwenK.C.Stephens, Twitter @Owen_Stephens, or find his blog at his website, owenkcstephens.com
And Luis Loza as the Game Master
Follow Luis on Twitter @donatoclassic or find him at his website, luisloza.com
Additional Information: Valiant concept art banner by Noé Leyva
Valiant character art by Sebastian Rodriguez
Thunder Dreams by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
The High Desert – AM by carvin_knowles and far west whistle 001 – AM by eulaliojavier licensed via Audio Micro.
John had the opportunity to chat with RPG luminary Jeff Grubb about Dungeons and Dragons, Guild Wars, and the possibility of a new Marvel Superheroes RPG!
Listen Now!(mp3)
On this episode of Legend Lore, Luis and Loren bring on Ryan and Perram to chat about one year of Legend Lore episodes. They discuss the genesis of the show, possibilities for future episodes, and Loren takes the time to cover the remaining classes that haven’t gone through the Viking Test!
If you have questions or requests for future episodes, reach out to us on the Know Direction Discord or drop us a line at KnowDirection@hotmail.com.
Featuring:
Loren Sieg writer of Dear DovahQueen and Bend the Knee.
Luis Loza writer of Monstrous Physique and GM for Valiant.
Listen Now! (mp3)
The session’s through, what do we do? We talk about how it went and share our feelings on a system that’s new to most of the players.
Featuring:
Luis Loza writer of Monstrous Physique and GM for Valiant.
Loren Sieg writer of Dear DovahQueen and Bend the Knee.
Ryan Costello director of logistics at the Know Direction Network and cohost of the Know Direction podcast.
Stan! cartoonist, author, and game designer whose experience with tabletop RPGs dates back to the 70s, and work in the industry dates back to TSR.
Eleanor Langthorne actor, model, and lead singer of Vices Inc.
Meg the Dweeb ER nurse and cosplayer.
Bryan Stiltz Longtime gamer and game industry veteran.
Listen Now! (mp3)
It takes teamwork from all our heroes to finally defeat a foe seemingly immune to nearly everything they can throw at it!
Listen Now!(mp3)
The third (and final?) Bestiary for Pathfinder is out! Dustin Knight joins Ryan and Perram to put it through its paces! Why are so many of these monsters the spawn of Perram’s nightmares?!
Listen Now! (mp3)
In episode 12 of Game Design Unboxed: Inspiration to Publication we talk with Julio Nazario about his design CTRL by Pandasaurus Games. Julio has worked to make his designs language-independent as well as use his engineering background to design in a 3-D space. Learn about his quick turnaround for CTRL and the lessons he learned as a newer designer.
Listen Now! (mp3) Featuring:
Julio Nazario – Guest
Danielle Reynolds – Host
Ben Moy – Host
Denice – Host
John and Ron talk about how players and GMs can and should deal with unseen and invisible foes.
Listen Now!
As our Adventurous heroes return to The Palace of Birdsong and close in on Count Bartelby Lotheed, someone learns a lesson in karma.
Listen Now! (mp3) Adventurous is a production of the Know Direction Network. Adventurous plays on the Roll20 virtual tabletop and uses the War For The Crown Adventure Path Roll20 products, provided by and available at Roll20.net. Syrinscape provided our theme song and background music. Check them out at syrinscape.com. Finally, the network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection
Featuring:
Jefferson Jay Thacker as Glanville Placid Humphrey Alencroft – Human Wizard (illusionist), Senatorial Hopeful
Loren Sieg as Lily Campbell – Human Investigator of the Toxin Codexer variety, Young Reformer
Ryan Costello as Xavier Saveur – Elf Bard (wit), Rising Star
Jason Keeley as Oggdren Bloodhammer – Dwarf Cavalier, disgraced knight of the Taldan Horse
Vanessa Hoskins as Idonia Stonebrook – Human Priestess of Milani
And Crystal Frasier as our illustrious Game Master.
It’s episode 13 and our Valiant heroes are following the shadow warrior deeper into the Glass Treader. Down below, they find things are heating up!
Listen Now! (mp3) Valiant is a Pathfinder Second Edition actual play podcast and is a production of the Know Direction Network. The show is an original, homebrew creation set in the Age of Lost Omens setting. The network and content like this is made possible thanks to the generous donations of our patrons at patreon.com/knowdirection.
Resources to Help Support Asian Communities: Support the AAPI Community Fund
Anti-Asian Violence Resources
Asian Awareness Project Links
Stop Asian Hate Links
Additional Links
Featuring: Avi as Sarna — CG half-orc human fighter
Follow Avi on Twitter @legalizegoblins
Rob Pontious as Ev’etaewayr — CG elf wizard
Follow Rob on Instagram @silentinfinity or Twitter @silentinfinity
Jessica Redekop as Xiadani — CG aasimar human druid
Follow Jessica on Instagram @tectonomancer or Twitter @tectonomancer
Owen K.C. Stephens as Seren D. Pious — CG halfling bard
Follow Owen on Facebook at OwenK.C.Stephens, Twitter @Owen_Stephens, or find his blog at his website, owenkcstephens.com
And Luis Loza as the Game Master
Follow Luis on Twitter @donatoclassic or find him at his website, luisloza.com
Additional Information: Valiant concept art banner by Noé Leyva
Valiant character art by Sebastian Rodriguez
Thunder Dreams by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
The High Desert – AM by carvin_knowles and far west whistle 001 – AM by eulaliojavier licensed via Audio Micro.
John chats with novelist and freelance RPG writer and publisher Alison Cybe.
Listen Now!(mp3)