#roleplaying-games — Public Fediverse posts

It would be interesting to learn from those who no longer play official D&D (5e) what's the primary reason...

Is it because you don't like 5e itself?

Or because you have issues with WotC/Hasbro and its behavior as a corporation?

#dnd #WotC #ttrpg #roleplayinggames

It would be interesting to learn from those who no longer play official D&D (5e) what's the primary reason...

Is it because you don't like 5e itself?

Or because you have issues with WotC/Hasbro and its behavior as a corporation?

#dnd #WotC #ttrpg #roleplayinggames

A #PF2e conversion of my older #Pokemon #MagicItems, with a fusion of #Leafeon & #Gardevoir for a #staff to make hearts blossom!
Come vote for future items on my Patreon

#MagicItem #Pathfinder2e #RPG #RPGArt #PokemonArt #Pathfinder #TTRPG #PathfinderArt #Illustration #FantasyArt #TabletopRPG #PokemonFanArt #FantasyIllustration #Homebrew #TabletopGaming #FantasyGaming #RolePlayingGames #TabletopArt #GameMaster #FantasyWorld #HomebrewContent #GameDesign #MagicItemDesign #PathfinderCommunity

In the past two years, I've been the DM for 21 teenagers and 13 adults for their very first D&D game. Cool, huh?

#dnd #dungeonsanddragons #ttrpg #roleplayinggames

In the past two years, I've been the DM for 21 teenagers and 13 adults for their very first D&D game. Cool, huh?

#dnd #dungeonsanddragons #ttrpg #roleplayinggames

AMC and Renegade Game Studios have announced a new roleplaying game line based on Anne Rice's Immortal Universe, starting in autumn 2026. #RoleplayingGames https://www.geeknative.com/240237/interview-with-the-vampire-rpg-coming-to-backerkit-this-autumn/

There Are No Ghosts at the Grand – stripping back the physical and metaphorical layers of a haunted hotel
By Jordan Erica Webber

Renovate rooms, investigate the supernatural and watch people burst into song in this surreal British ghost story

https://www.theguardian.com/games/2026/jul/23/there-are-no-ghosts-at-the-grand-friday-sundae-summer-games-preview

#Games #Culture #Roleplayinggames #Puzzlegames #TheGuardian #JordanEricaWebber

There Are No Ghosts at the Grand – stripping back the physical and metaphorical layers of a haunted hotel https://www.theguardian.com/games/2026/jul/23/there-are-no-ghosts-at-the-grand-friday-sundae-summer-games-preview #Games #Culture #RolePlayingGames #PuzzleGames

There Are No Ghosts at the Grand – stripping back the physical and metaphorical layers of a haunted hotel https://www.theguardian.com/games/2026/jul/23/there-are-no-ghosts-at-the-grand-friday-sundae-summer-games-preview #Games #Culture #RolePlayingGames #PuzzleGames

I had a video come out last Thursday that sparked a much more contentious debate in the comments than I anticipated.

"When the Table Votes You Out: 3 D&D Stories"

WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZGY8UJraG4 [22 min]

#DungeonMaster #DnD5e #DMAdvice #RPGTips #GameMaster #DungeonsAndDragons #TTRPGCommunity #RoleplayingGames #Ruckerworks

I had a video come out last Thursday that sparked a much more contentious debate in the comments than I anticipated.

"When the Table Votes You Out: 3 D&D Stories"

WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZGY8UJraG4 [22 min]

#DungeonMaster #DnD5e #DMAdvice #RPGTips #GameMaster #DungeonsAndDragons #TTRPGCommunity #RoleplayingGames #Ruckerworks

Into the Dungeon!!

One of the most common tropes that exist in tabletop role playing games (TTRPGs) is that player characters (PCs) will desire to find and clear the dungeon. This is such a long-standing concept that the first adventures in the first TTRPG was developed around this notion. Everyone desires to take care of these dungeons. Before the first PC is able to enter, some initial questions must be answered.

Why Made?

Before anything is made, someone will ask what the purpose will be. A company builds a 50-story tower. That will be so they can have someplace for their office and rent out to other companies for the same reason. A vehicle will be constructed so that it can transport people and supplies to where they are or needed. This principle will be no different for dungeons. A dungeon will mostly be built for some reason other than it is currently used. Some possible examples would be a prison, catacombs, connect different places, or other (possibly benign) reason. None of these will be to trouble others. Catacombs are used to bury honored dead, such as the King and Queen. Prisons are meant to detain those who committed some crime or other violation. The current condition of the dungeon will possess remnants of this regardless of the changes time brings.

Location?

Most commonly, the dungeon will be located either close to some major place (city) or obscure place. While both are workable, they are not the only possibilities. In or near the city will allow easy access for PCs who desire to explore. However, it also makes problems for the locals since those wanting trouble will have similar ease. In the remote location solves that problem but creates challenges for explorers who try to explore and bring back anything gained.

Underground Only?

The first place that people will think of will be that underground dungeon. This is so common that game masters (GMs) will rarely place them anywhere else. Does that need to remain so? Essentially anywhere that can be enclosed and create trouble for the PCs can be called a dungeon. This could include that forest, some castle, abandoned vehicle or station. The only real requirement will be that it is sufficiently large to allow for multiple rooms to explore. Examples for these alternates would include that office tower, a wizard keep, an aircraft carrier, the Death Star, or anything else meeting this requirement. The tower and keep will generally be above ground while the carrier is on some ocean and the Death Star is in space. Have fun and place some dungeon in these alternative places to surprise those pesky PCs.

Condition?

Usually when something is built, the builders will attempt to make the place in pristine condition. This does not mean that it will stay that way, especially if not given upkeep. If the original builder or owner abandons the place, then it will fall into disrepair. Over time, other beings will occupy these places probably making modifications that the original never intended. Goblins could move in and make additional rooms, usually with traps. Another problem might be that rooms would collapse making things troublesome to get through. Water or other substance could drip causing things to become difficult to see, slick to travel through, or other problem. Combining several problems would lead to a place that would make even the best and most powerful PC reluctant to enter.

Treasure?

PCs will generally take to dungeons so they can gain the treasure within. Before GMs grant said treasure, they should ask themselves who placed it there and why. The common assumption is that they were left from prior adventurers that died. Usually, some later adventurer will not allow those treasures to remain. Goblins will gather such items to use in their travels. Wolves, squirrels, raccoons and similar creatures will sort through them and claim them for their respective function. More intelligent creatures, like the dragon, will pull everything into one central place so they can guard them better. What defenses are around will depend upon the dungeon’s condition and who occupies it

Size?

Among gamers, the five-room dungeon has become popular. This simplistic system tells everyone where and how they enter the dungeon, what problems to expect, and how to exit the place. This system will work great for one-shot games or something that is supposed to be solved with little effort. An effort to improve this problem is done through the megadungeon. The idea here is that for some (usually unstated) reason the dungeon has grown to the size that it cannot be fully dealt with in several years of exploration. The Labyrinth could be considered a megadungoen. A problem here is that the size makes them unworkable for even the best teams and locations. Since their real size is unrevealed, they would cause extreme trouble for anyone traveling anywhere several miles around, which could be the size of the U.S. or larger. A simple solution would be to generate a conventional dungeon of the size that the PCs will reasonably explore.

The most common troupe of exploring the dungeon carries many challenges that usually is either ignored or handwaved away. Issues like the size, when and why made, original and current function will not come up. The problem of the current occupants will be addressed since the PCs will desire to deal with them. Since every issue mentioned will play into its current design, they need to be brought up in some manner, at least by the GM. It will be appropriate if the players want to go into some location that does not currently exist. In that case, simply add it as though it was always there. This can also be if it was placed where the players have no desire to travel to. With that, move it to where everyone wants to be. The most important issue will be making a dungeon that the players want to explore for some reason. When that is done, there will be some exploration that will entice everyone and they will desire to recreate for many years.

Please refer this blog to your friends and family. If you use this link, everyone will receive a bonus.

There is a Spring Store that one can obtain all that wonderful merchandise. Please visit this site for all your great gaming products from Asp the Gamer. They have everything that makes all your games better.

Make a one-time donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Make a monthly donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Into the Dungeon!!

One of the most common tropes that exist in tabletop role playing games (TTRPGs) is that player characters (PCs) will desire to find and clear the dungeon. This is such a long-standing concept that the first adventures in the first TTRPG was developed around this notion. Everyone desires to take care of these dungeons. Before the first PC is able to enter, some initial questions must be answered.

Why Made?

Before anything is made, someone will ask what the purpose will be. A company builds a 50-story tower. That will be so they can have someplace for their office and rent out to other companies for the same reason. A vehicle will be constructed so that it can transport people and supplies to where they are or needed. This principle will be no different for dungeons. A dungeon will mostly be built for some reason other than it is currently used. Some possible examples would be a prison, catacombs, connect different places, or other (possibly benign) reason. None of these will be to trouble others. Catacombs are used to bury honored dead, such as the King and Queen. Prisons are meant to detain those who committed some crime or other violation. The current condition of the dungeon will possess remnants of this regardless of the changes time brings.

Location?

Most commonly, the dungeon will be located either close to some major place (city) or obscure place. While both are workable, they are not the only possibilities. In or near the city will allow easy access for PCs who desire to explore. However, it also makes problems for the locals since those wanting trouble will have similar ease. In the remote location solves that problem but creates challenges for explorers who try to explore and bring back anything gained.

Underground Only?

The first place that people will think of will be that underground dungeon. This is so common that game masters (GMs) will rarely place them anywhere else. Does that need to remain so? Essentially anywhere that can be enclosed and create trouble for the PCs can be called a dungeon. This could include that forest, some castle, abandoned vehicle or station. The only real requirement will be that it is sufficiently large to allow for multiple rooms to explore. Examples for these alternates would include that office tower, a wizard keep, an aircraft carrier, the Death Star, or anything else meeting this requirement. The tower and keep will generally be above ground while the carrier is on some ocean and the Death Star is in space. Have fun and place some dungeon in these alternative places to surprise those pesky PCs.

Condition?

Usually when something is built, the builders will attempt to make the place in pristine condition. This does not mean that it will stay that way, especially if not given upkeep. If the original builder or owner abandons the place, then it will fall into disrepair. Over time, other beings will occupy these places probably making modifications that the original never intended. Goblins could move in and make additional rooms, usually with traps. Another problem might be that rooms would collapse making things troublesome to get through. Water or other substance could drip causing things to become difficult to see, slick to travel through, or other problem. Combining several problems would lead to a place that would make even the best and most powerful PC reluctant to enter.

Treasure?

PCs will generally take to dungeons so they can gain the treasure within. Before GMs grant said treasure, they should ask themselves who placed it there and why. The common assumption is that they were left from prior adventurers that died. Usually, some later adventurer will not allow those treasures to remain. Goblins will gather such items to use in their travels. Wolves, squirrels, raccoons and similar creatures will sort through them and claim them for their respective function. More intelligent creatures, like the dragon, will pull everything into one central place so they can guard them better. What defenses are around will depend upon the dungeon’s condition and who occupies it

Size?

Among gamers, the five-room dungeon has become popular. This simplistic system tells everyone where and how they enter the dungeon, what problems to expect, and how to exit the place. This system will work great for one-shot games or something that is supposed to be solved with little effort. An effort to improve this problem is done through the megadungeon. The idea here is that for some (usually unstated) reason the dungeon has grown to the size that it cannot be fully dealt with in several years of exploration. The Labyrinth could be considered a megadungoen. A problem here is that the size makes them unworkable for even the best teams and locations. Since their real size is unrevealed, they would cause extreme trouble for anyone traveling anywhere several miles around, which could be the size of the U.S. or larger. A simple solution would be to generate a conventional dungeon of the size that the PCs will reasonably explore.

The most common troupe of exploring the dungeon carries many challenges that usually is either ignored or handwaved away. Issues like the size, when and why made, original and current function will not come up. The problem of the current occupants will be addressed since the PCs will desire to deal with them. Since every issue mentioned will play into its current design, they need to be brought up in some manner, at least by the GM. It will be appropriate if the players want to go into some location that does not currently exist. In that case, simply add it as though it was always there. This can also be if it was placed where the players have no desire to travel to. With that, move it to where everyone wants to be. The most important issue will be making a dungeon that the players want to explore for some reason. When that is done, there will be some exploration that will entice everyone and they will desire to recreate for many years.

Please refer this blog to your friends and family. If you use this link, everyone will receive a bonus.

There is a Spring Store that one can obtain all that wonderful merchandise. Please visit this site for all your great gaming products from Asp the Gamer. They have everything that makes all your games better.

Make a one-time donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Make a monthly donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

I go on a rant about idiotic D&D players and terrible DMs. (I also provide some guidance on how to deal with them.)

WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZGY8UJraG4 [22 min]

#DungeonMaster #DnD5e #DMAdvice #RPGTips #GameMaster #DungeonsAndDragons #TTRPGCommunity #RoleplayingGames #Ruckerworks

I go on a rant about idiotic D&D players and terrible DMs. (I also provide some guidance on how to deal with them.)

WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZGY8UJraG4 [22 min]

#DungeonMaster #DnD5e #DMAdvice #RPGTips #GameMaster #DungeonsAndDragons #TTRPGCommunity #RoleplayingGames #Ruckerworks

I asked this on my YouTube channel @ruckerworks, but would like to cross-ask on Mastodon:

If it were available, would you take an online course from an experienced DM that teaches you how to become a D&D dungeon master?

#dnd #dungeonmaster #ttrpg #roleplayinggames #training

I asked this on my YouTube channel @ruckerworks, but would like to cross-ask on Mastodon:

If it were available, would you take an online course from an experienced DM that teaches you how to become a D&D dungeon master?

#dnd #dungeonmaster #ttrpg #roleplayinggames #training

My #DnD #Pokemon #MagicItem of the Day, with a fusion of #Gastly, #Poochyena, #Greavard, & #Maschiff for a staff of the goodest puppers!
Come vote for future items on my Patreon

#DnD5E #MagicItems #DnDHomebrew #Art #RPG #RPGArt #TabletopGaming #FantasyArt #HomebrewMagic #PokemonArt #DnDArt #DungeonsAndDragons #TTRPG #MagicItemDesign #Illustration #GameDesign #RolePlayingGames #FantasyGaming #GameMaster #HomebrewContent #FantasyWorld #FantasyIllustration #PokemonFanArt #Homebrew #TabletopRPG

I'm excited about tomorrow's new video, which uses a new format: 3 D&D tips in 3 minutes or less.

I intend to add these shorter, more tip-focused videos to my current mix of slightly longer videos (which are typically ~7 minutes) that cover more philosophical-based topics.

Stay tuned!

https://www.youtube.com/@ruckerworks/

#dnd #ttrpg #dndtips #roleplayinggames

I'm excited about tomorrow's new video, which uses a new format: 3 D&D tips in 3 minutes or less.

I intend to add these shorter, more tip-focused videos to my current mix of slightly longer videos (which are typically ~7 minutes) that cover more philosophical-based topics.

Stay tuned!

https://www.youtube.com/@ruckerworks/

#dnd #ttrpg #dndtips #roleplayinggames

A #PF2e conversion of my older #Pokemon #MagicItems, with a fusion of #Entei & #Moltres for a #spear to rain down volcanic ash!
Come vote for future items on my Patreon

#MagicItem #Pathfinder2e #RPG #RPGArt #PokemonArt #Pathfinder #TTRPG #PathfinderArt #Illustration #FantasyArt #TabletopRPG #PokemonFanArt #FantasyIllustration #Homebrew #TabletopGaming #FantasyGaming #RolePlayingGames #TabletopArt #GameMaster #FantasyWorld #HomebrewContent #GameDesign #MagicItemDesign #PathfinderCommunity

My #DnD #Pokemon #MagicItem of the Day, with a fusion of #Reshiram, #Zekrom, and #Kyurem for a #staff to spin between fire, ice, and electricity!
Come vote for future items on my Patreon

#DnD5E #MagicItems #DnDHomebrew #Art #RPG #RPGArt #TabletopGaming #FantasyArt #HomebrewMagic #PokemonArt #DnDArt #DungeonsAndDragons #TTRPG #MagicItemDesign #Illustration #GameDesign #RolePlayingGames #FantasyGaming #GameMaster #HomebrewContent #FantasyWorld #FantasyIllustration #PokemonFanArt #Homebrew

That is so Spacy

While the most popular genre in tabletop role playing games (TTRPGs) is fantasy, another genre that many players desire to play will be some form of science fiction. Does this mean that they will be traveling from one planet to another solving problems? Will there be technological gadgetry in place of fantasy spells? Are all the fantasy races not allowed?

Going Traditional?

Is the planet-hopping scifi the only way to make scifi? The most common version of science fiction that people think of will be the traditional version. In this, players will be members of some interplanetary society, such as Star Trek’s Federation. Either they will have their own ship or be able to utilize a ship that is able to travel from one planet to another across several light years in a period of minutes or hours at most. Communication will have similar increases of speed. The presence of aliens will be common. Adventures will take place on the ship, in space, on planet, or some combination of all. Going from one planet to another several light years away will be extremely common. Heroes will be normal, although highly trained and skilled, members of whatever race they belong to. For example, if a human, the hero would not be able to possess mental powers unless that is available to every human. This human character could seem so skilled in xenobiology that they know every detail of every alien lifeform in an instant by memory. They could also be such a great target master as to make Hawkeye look like some beginner. Everyone will have access to high technology devices. Such devices will be able to perform instant heal on any wound, instant translation of any language regardless how dissimilar, instant transportation over thousands to millions of kilometers, along with many others.

That’s Solar

For those not wanting to make a campaign that goes interplanetary but still maintains the feel of a traditional game they can make a solarpunk game. In solarpunk, Earth has developed some method for travel and survival in space so that they can create societies anywhere in the Sol System. The speed of travel will be anywhere from relativistic to light speed at maximum. The technology seen in Enterprise is seen as extremely advanced in comparison. Technology mostly will be more advanced versions of what can be found in reality. Medical healing will occur faster than modern societies expect but not at the instant rate expected for traditional. Weapons will be limited to what is available in reality. Energy weapons might exist but unreliable, expensive, bulky, or some combination. If there are aliens, there will be some reason that they are not able to use their comparatively advanced technology or evolved on some other body in Sol System.

Be Punked

Different people have taken varied views about how society could evolve into the future. The most common versions are listed here.

• Cyberpunk: During a cyberpunk campaign, government debts reached the point that they broke society. To solve the problem, corporations gained more autonomy and power. Finally, they became independent governments unto themselves. These corporation-states will rewrite boundaries, make their own police force, laws, and everything else that is traditionally done by governments. The characters will either by employed by some company-state or illegal operatives working on their own. If the first, the company-state will pay all expenses, provide all needed equipment, and everything else at the price of demanding total loyalty and following their rules and oversight. When taking the later they will have greater freedom to perform what they want. The price for that freedom will be they are hunted by the corporation-state, need to cover their own costs, provide their own equipment, and everything else on their own.
• Ecopunk: Here, the environmentalists get everything they desire. Everything artificial has become illegal and no longer used. Every energy source has become some form of renewable energy. No form of pollution anywhere. The players will have challenges that goes along with enforcing such a society.
• Biopunk: With this, everything is about improving the body. If there is a problem with the arm, replace it with a bionic replacement. Same with any other portion of the body. Desire that arm-cannon? Simply purchase one. Want to run faster or leap further? Get bionic legs. Become bulletproof? Buy bulletproof skin. The ultimate goal is to make the perfect human. Adventures here would be the same with real life, just elevated with the presence of those bionic components.

End it All!

The ultimate test of any society is if it can survive the long term. With some debate, most have done this. Every few years, someone will come out with some prediction that they say will destroy everything. What if one or more of these predictions came true? This is the basis for the post-apocalyptic campaign. During these campaigns, society either will be ending or be at some point after the apocalypse. If the first, then those that predicted the disaster will feel vindicated even though everyone is cursing what is happening as society is being destroyed. No one will know what is happening, religions will call upon their deities, and other forces will collide into a chaotic situation. During the later, current religions will either not exist or have mutated into something strange, factions have formed, and other adaptations have been completed. Challenges here would either be one faction against another or survival based.

Science fiction is a popular way for people to play games. While the traditional way with powerful space ships, aliens, energy weapons, and planets everywhere is the first thought of, that does not mean this is the only version that exists. The speed of the ships can range anywhere from modern rockets (0.001 light maximum) to several thousand or million times that of light speed. Where societies occur will develop in similar manner to that speed. Higher speed will allow greater spread between those cities, either on planet or in space. Alternatively, players could ask what happens when some extreme event happens. This event could be when corporations take over for governments, or environmentalists gain their every desire, or people are able to modify their very body at will in any manner. The final possibility would be asking about the possibility if every society were to collapse and humanity went without any form of government or any oversight. No matter the version that is used, everyone should be able to create interesting stories that they will want to retell over several years.

Please refer this blog to your friends and family. If you use this link, everyone will receive a bonus.

There is a Spring Store that one can obtain all that wonderful merchandise. Please visit this site for all your great gaming products from Asp the Gamer. They have everything that makes all your games better.

Make a one-time donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Make a monthly donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

That is so Spacy

While the most popular genre in tabletop role playing games (TTRPGs) is fantasy, another genre that many players desire to play will be some form of science fiction. Does this mean that they will be traveling from one planet to another solving problems? Will there be technological gadgetry in place of fantasy spells? Are all the fantasy races not allowed?

Going Traditional?

Is the planet-hopping scifi the only way to make scifi? The most common version of science fiction that people think of will be the traditional version. In this, players will be members of some interplanetary society, such as Star Trek’s Federation. Either they will have their own ship or be able to utilize a ship that is able to travel from one planet to another across several light years in a period of minutes or hours at most. Communication will have similar increases of speed. The presence of aliens will be common. Adventures will take place on the ship, in space, on planet, or some combination of all. Going from one planet to another several light years away will be extremely common. Heroes will be normal, although highly trained and skilled, members of whatever race they belong to. For example, if a human, the hero would not be able to possess mental powers unless that is available to every human. This human character could seem so skilled in xenobiology that they know every detail of every alien lifeform in an instant by memory. They could also be such a great target master as to make Hawkeye look like some beginner. Everyone will have access to high technology devices. Such devices will be able to perform instant heal on any wound, instant translation of any language regardless how dissimilar, instant transportation over thousands to millions of kilometers, along with many others.

That’s Solar

For those not wanting to make a campaign that goes interplanetary but still maintains the feel of a traditional game they can make a solarpunk game. In solarpunk, Earth has developed some method for travel and survival in space so that they can create societies anywhere in the Sol System. The speed of travel will be anywhere from relativistic to light speed at maximum. The technology seen in Enterprise is seen as extremely advanced in comparison. Technology mostly will be more advanced versions of what can be found in reality. Medical healing will occur faster than modern societies expect but not at the instant rate expected for traditional. Weapons will be limited to what is available in reality. Energy weapons might exist but unreliable, expensive, bulky, or some combination. If there are aliens, there will be some reason that they are not able to use their comparatively advanced technology or evolved on some other body in Sol System.

Be Punked

Different people have taken varied views about how society could evolve into the future. The most common versions are listed here.

• Cyberpunk: During a cyberpunk campaign, government debts reached the point that they broke society. To solve the problem, corporations gained more autonomy and power. Finally, they became independent governments unto themselves. These corporation-states will rewrite boundaries, make their own police force, laws, and everything else that is traditionally done by governments. The characters will either by employed by some company-state or illegal operatives working on their own. If the first, the company-state will pay all expenses, provide all needed equipment, and everything else at the price of demanding total loyalty and following their rules and oversight. When taking the later they will have greater freedom to perform what they want. The price for that freedom will be they are hunted by the corporation-state, need to cover their own costs, provide their own equipment, and everything else on their own.
• Ecopunk: Here, the environmentalists get everything they desire. Everything artificial has become illegal and no longer used. Every energy source has become some form of renewable energy. No form of pollution anywhere. The players will have challenges that goes along with enforcing such a society.
• Biopunk: With this, everything is about improving the body. If there is a problem with the arm, replace it with a bionic replacement. Same with any other portion of the body. Desire that arm-cannon? Simply purchase one. Want to run faster or leap further? Get bionic legs. Become bulletproof? Buy bulletproof skin. The ultimate goal is to make the perfect human. Adventures here would be the same with real life, just elevated with the presence of those bionic components.

End it All!

The ultimate test of any society is if it can survive the long term. With some debate, most have done this. Every few years, someone will come out with some prediction that they say will destroy everything. What if one or more of these predictions came true? This is the basis for the post-apocalyptic campaign. During these campaigns, society either will be ending or be at some point after the apocalypse. If the first, then those that predicted the disaster will feel vindicated even though everyone is cursing what is happening as society is being destroyed. No one will know what is happening, religions will call upon their deities, and other forces will collide into a chaotic situation. During the later, current religions will either not exist or have mutated into something strange, factions have formed, and other adaptations have been completed. Challenges here would either be one faction against another or survival based.

Science fiction is a popular way for people to play games. While the traditional way with powerful space ships, aliens, energy weapons, and planets everywhere is the first thought of, that does not mean this is the only version that exists. The speed of the ships can range anywhere from modern rockets (0.001 light maximum) to several thousand or million times that of light speed. Where societies occur will develop in similar manner to that speed. Higher speed will allow greater spread between those cities, either on planet or in space. Alternatively, players could ask what happens when some extreme event happens. This event could be when corporations take over for governments, or environmentalists gain their every desire, or people are able to modify their very body at will in any manner. The final possibility would be asking about the possibility if every society were to collapse and humanity went without any form of government or any oversight. No matter the version that is used, everyone should be able to create interesting stories that they will want to retell over several years.

Please refer this blog to your friends and family. If you use this link, everyone will receive a bonus.

There is a Spring Store that one can obtain all that wonderful merchandise. Please visit this site for all your great gaming products from Asp the Gamer. They have everything that makes all your games better.

Make a one-time donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Make a monthly donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Update day!

There's a new setting: The Dessert. It's hot and largely empty. Don't forget to bring some water.

In a bid to make thievery worthwhile, you'll now get gold when pickpocketing as well as loot. More gold than you would by killing, too.

Also new 3d-looking buttons. And a whole lot of new bugs. So many bugs. My todo list is longer than when I started today. Whoops!

Enjoy!

#games #browserGames #rpg #gameDev #soloGameDev #roleplayingGames

Update day!

There's a new setting: The Dessert. It's hot and largely empty. Don't forget to bring some water.

In a bid to make thievery worthwhile, you'll now get gold when pickpocketing as well as loot. More gold than you would by killing, too.

Also new 3d-looking buttons. And a whole lot of new bugs. So many bugs. My todo list is longer than when I started today. Whoops!

Enjoy!

#games #browserGames #rpg #gameDev #soloGameDev #roleplayingGames

#RPGaDAY2026 starts August 1st

https://castingshadowsblog.com/2026/07/01/rpgaday2026-starts-august-1st/

#RPGaDAY2026 starts August 1st

https://castingshadowsblog.com/2026/07/01/rpgaday2026-starts-august-1st/

I love to play text based roleplay games. Mainly Play by Post via "oldschool" forums.

So I wonder, is it strange to mainly roleplay female characters?
I mean, the argument of videogames "I don't like to look at a male arses all the time" doesn't apply here.

Can't really explain why I like to play female characters more than male ones. But I guess it's because I'm already playing a male character in real life all the time?

#PlayByPost #RolePlay #roleplayinggames

JUST RELEASED:

New DMs worry when their players don't seem to be having a good time. Experienced DMs do too, honestly. I cover what's actually going on and what both DMs and players can do about it.

READ: https://ruckerworks.com/2026/06/dnd-game-not-fun-advice-dms-players/
WATCH: https://youtu.be/0AeKMTiuCjk [7 min 21 sec]

#dnd #dungeonsanddragons #ttrpg #roleplayinggames #DungeonMasters #DMadvice #PlayerAdvice

JUST RELEASED:

New DMs worry when their players don't seem to be having a good time. Experienced DMs do too, honestly. I cover what's actually going on and what both DMs and players can do about it.

READ: https://ruckerworks.com/2026/06/dnd-game-not-fun-advice-dms-players/
WATCH: https://youtu.be/0AeKMTiuCjk [7 min 21 sec]

#dnd #dungeonsanddragons #ttrpg #roleplayinggames #DungeonMasters #DMadvice #PlayerAdvice

Not all D&D game sessions are created equal. Sometimes, both players and DM say "Meh" and hope the next session is more fun.

I talk about this uncomfortable reality and what both DMs and players can do about it in tomorrow's article and video.

Stay tuned!

https://ruckerworks.com/blog/
https://www.youtube.com/@ruckerworks/

#dnd #dungeonsanddragons #ttrpg #roleplayinggames #DungeonMasters #DMadvice #PlayerAdvice

Not all D&D game sessions are created equal. Sometimes, both players and DM say "Meh" and hope the next session is more fun.

I talk about this uncomfortable reality and what both DMs and players can do about it in tomorrow's article and video.

Stay tuned!

https://ruckerworks.com/blog/
https://www.youtube.com/@ruckerworks/

#dnd #dungeonsanddragons #ttrpg #roleplayinggames #DungeonMasters #DMadvice #PlayerAdvice

One idea for a PvP session is to have each player move their character sheet to the player next to them, and then go for another few rounds.

Is this a fun option? Have you ever done this during your PvP session?

READ: https://ruckerworks.com/2026/06/dnd-pvp-scenarios-table-rules/
WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62nO61ZPjQU [9 min 54 sec]

#DnD #DungeonsAndDragons #PvP #GameIdeas #TTRPG #RolePlayingGames

One idea for a PvP session is to have each player move their character sheet to the player next to them, and then go for another few rounds.

Is this a fun option? Have you ever done this during your PvP session?

READ: https://ruckerworks.com/2026/06/dnd-pvp-scenarios-table-rules/
WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62nO61ZPjQU [9 min 54 sec]

#DnD #DungeonsAndDragons #PvP #GameIdeas #TTRPG #RolePlayingGames

What a haul! Both the classic 1985 Edition of the Doctor Who RPG (with modules) as well as the modern rules & sourcebooks for Drs 1-12! Many are hard to find now.

#RPG #tabletopgames #roleplayinggames #doctorwho #newarrivals #fireflybookstore #keepinitkutztown #lehighvalley #berkscounty #kutztown

What a haul! Both the classic 1985 Edition of the Doctor Who RPG (with modules) as well as the modern rules & sourcebooks for Drs 1-12! Many are hard to find now.

#RPG #tabletopgames #roleplayinggames #doctorwho #newarrivals #fireflybookstore #keepinitkutztown #lehighvalley #berkscounty #kutztown

Enhancing TTRPGs: The Benefits of Including Romance

A controversial topic when it comes to tabletop role playing games (TTRPGs) is the issue of romance. Whenever this comes up, several people first think of having sex. Yet, that is only a small part of the overall picture. For that reason, many people consider it taboo. They forbid any form of discussion at the table. When taking a more open-minded view, there are many ways this can enhance personal growth. It can also improve the game overall.

For Me?

People can be initially reluctant to incite either conversation or possible romance with someone new. When discussing it with familiar and hopefully nonjudgmental company, someone can decide his preferences. Someone will feel comfortable telling everyone, especially himself, that he is homosexual. During the troublesome teenage years, older members of the game group can support the teen. They can encourage the teen to try different ways they would wish to date another person. Additionally, when the teen shows interest in another, others will notice it both in and out of the group. They will boost the person’s confidence. This support will make him more to ask the other person out.

Gamer Run

It can get challenging to bring in romance to the game. Most groups will be made either entirely or mostly of men. If a male PC wants to romance a female, he must flirt. He can flirt with either the female PC or the female GM. Unless the player is great at disassociation, there will be problems with them performing with this activity. Some games have experimented with a system of romance rolls. These rolls decide how successful the character is in their effort. This is an effort to make romance work in some manner akin to how their combat system operates. Player A inanities conversation with Player B. Player B is neutral during this meeting, so there is no modifier either positive or negative. Performing romance in this manner seems natural. Many TTRPGs devote a large part of the game to combat in various forms. The primary problem that I have with this approach is that romance is not something that should be considered adversarial. Instead, it should be something that should be cooperative among two or more willing parties sharing a mutual goal.

Problematic?

Like many people, several gamers have their comfort zones that they prefer to stay in. Romance happens to be one of the strongest of these. Most people will take one view that they will have a powerful subconscious hold that they will not vary from. It does not matter if they favor or oppose having romance. They will feel uncomfortable with the direct flirting among other group members, who they view as friends. This is why most groups will consider this topic a forbidden topic, assuming they even bring it up. Romance is like any other social activity. It is akin to addressing the King or working those contacts. It should be handled through proper interaction rather than some form or modified combat.

Whenever romance is brought into any TTRPG, it can be highly polarizing. This can be since it either is done improperly or makes everyone feel uncomfortable. Trying to work in romance by emulating the combat system is not effective. It actually does a disservice to how romance works. This situation can help teach anyone who feels uncomfortable when they like someone else. By handling romance in role play like other situations, everyone can become more comfortable. This method addresses the issue of romance in the game. This will then introduce more options for players to create amazing stories to recreate over many years.

Please refer this blog to your friends and family. If you use this link, everyone will receive a bonus.

There is a Spring Store that one can obtain all that wonderful merchandise. Please visit this site for all your great gaming products from Asp the Gamer. They have everything that makes all your games better.

Make a one-time donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Make a monthly donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Enhancing TTRPGs: The Benefits of Including Romance

A controversial topic when it comes to tabletop role playing games (TTRPGs) is the issue of romance. Whenever this comes up, several people first think of having sex. Yet, that is only a small part of the overall picture. For that reason, many people consider it taboo. They forbid any form of discussion at the table. When taking a more open-minded view, there are many ways this can enhance personal growth. It can also improve the game overall.

For Me?

People can be initially reluctant to incite either conversation or possible romance with someone new. When discussing it with familiar and hopefully nonjudgmental company, someone can decide his preferences. Someone will feel comfortable telling everyone, especially himself, that he is homosexual. During the troublesome teenage years, older members of the game group can support the teen. They can encourage the teen to try different ways they would wish to date another person. Additionally, when the teen shows interest in another, others will notice it both in and out of the group. They will boost the person’s confidence. This support will make him more to ask the other person out.

Gamer Run

It can get challenging to bring in romance to the game. Most groups will be made either entirely or mostly of men. If a male PC wants to romance a female, he must flirt. He can flirt with either the female PC or the female GM. Unless the player is great at disassociation, there will be problems with them performing with this activity. Some games have experimented with a system of romance rolls. These rolls decide how successful the character is in their effort. This is an effort to make romance work in some manner akin to how their combat system operates. Player A inanities conversation with Player B. Player B is neutral during this meeting, so there is no modifier either positive or negative. Performing romance in this manner seems natural. Many TTRPGs devote a large part of the game to combat in various forms. The primary problem that I have with this approach is that romance is not something that should be considered adversarial. Instead, it should be something that should be cooperative among two or more willing parties sharing a mutual goal.

Problematic?

Like many people, several gamers have their comfort zones that they prefer to stay in. Romance happens to be one of the strongest of these. Most people will take one view that they will have a powerful subconscious hold that they will not vary from. It does not matter if they favor or oppose having romance. They will feel uncomfortable with the direct flirting among other group members, who they view as friends. This is why most groups will consider this topic a forbidden topic, assuming they even bring it up. Romance is like any other social activity. It is akin to addressing the King or working those contacts. It should be handled through proper interaction rather than some form or modified combat.

Whenever romance is brought into any TTRPG, it can be highly polarizing. This can be since it either is done improperly or makes everyone feel uncomfortable. Trying to work in romance by emulating the combat system is not effective. It actually does a disservice to how romance works. This situation can help teach anyone who feels uncomfortable when they like someone else. By handling romance in role play like other situations, everyone can become more comfortable. This method addresses the issue of romance in the game. This will then introduce more options for players to create amazing stories to recreate over many years.

Please refer this blog to your friends and family. If you use this link, everyone will receive a bonus.

There is a Spring Store that one can obtain all that wonderful merchandise. Please visit this site for all your great gaming products from Asp the Gamer. They have everything that makes all your games better.

Make a one-time donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Make a monthly donation

Your contribution is appreciated.

Most D&D groups ban PvP (player against player hostile action) during regular campaign play. At my table, we have two dedicated sessions a year where that's all we do and it's a total blast.

I describe the table rules and scenarios you can use to make your dedicated PvP game night a huge success. Available as free downloads.

READ: https://ruckerworks.com/2026/06/dnd-pvp-scenarios-table-rules/
WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62nO61ZPjQU [9 min 54 sec]

#DnD #DungeonsAndDragons #PvP #GameIdeas #TTRPG #RolePlayingGames

Most D&D groups ban PvP (player against player hostile action) during regular campaign play. At my table, we have two dedicated sessions a year where that's all we do and it's a total blast.

I describe the table rules and scenarios you can use to make your dedicated PvP game night a huge success. Available as free downloads.

READ: https://ruckerworks.com/2026/06/dnd-pvp-scenarios-table-rules/
WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62nO61ZPjQU [9 min 54 sec]

#DnD #DungeonsAndDragons #PvP #GameIdeas #TTRPG #RolePlayingGames

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales review – a playable love letter to Zelda https://www.theguardian.com/games/2026/jun/18/the-adventures-of-elliot-the-millennium-tales-review #Games #RolePlayingGames #Culture

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales review – a playable love letter to Zelda https://www.theguardian.com/games/2026/jun/18/the-adventures-of-elliot-the-millennium-tales-review #Games #RolePlayingGames #Culture

What is your experience with leveling in RPGs?
For "DnD" in the poll read any edition of Dungeons and Dragon or other RPG where XP leveling is suggested by lists of "monsters" including XP awarded for defeating.
If your GM did some weird hybrid like count the monsters you would have killed if you went through the session like a munchkin, vote your conscience.

#ttrpg #dnd5e #roleplayinggames #pathfinder2e

What is your experience with leveling in RPGs?
For "DnD" in the poll read any edition of Dungeons and Dragon or other RPG where XP leveling is suggested by lists of "monsters" including XP awarded for defeating.
If your GM did some weird hybrid like count the monsters you would have killed if you went through the session like a munchkin, vote your conscience.

#ttrpg #dnd5e #roleplayinggames #pathfinder2e

A #PF2e conversion of my older #Pokemon #MagicItems, with a fusion of #Grovyle & #Empoleon for a #trident to strike from the seaweed!
Come vote for future items on my Patreon

#MagicItem #Pathfinder2e #RPG #RPGArt #PokemonArt #Pathfinder #TTRPG #PathfinderArt #Illustration #FantasyArt #TabletopRPG #PokemonFanArt #FantasyIllustration #Homebrew #TabletopGaming #FantasyGaming #RolePlayingGames #TabletopArt #GameMaster #FantasyWorld #HomebrewContent #GameDesign #MagicItemDesign #PathfinderCommunity

A #PF2e conversion of my older #Pokemon #MagicItems, with a fusion of #Kingdra & #Prinplup for a #halberd to strike like a wave!
Come vote for future items on my Patreon

#MagicItem #Pathfinder2e #RPG #RPGArt #PokemonArt #Pathfinder #TTRPG #PathfinderArt #Illustration #FantasyArt #TabletopRPG #PokemonFanArt #FantasyIllustration #Homebrew #TabletopGaming #FantasyGaming #RolePlayingGames #TabletopArt #GameMaster #FantasyWorld #HomebrewContent #GameDesign #MagicItemDesign #PathfinderCommunity

Eurogamer: RPG Maker forum users are racing to archive almost 15 years of valuable resources, as game engine maker announces impending move. “Users of the official RPG Maker forums – a vibrant community hub for the famed game engine – are rushing to save years of valuable discussion and resources following the news of its impending shut-down.”

Eurogamer: RPG Maker forum users are racing to archive almost 15 years of valuable resources, as game engine maker announces impending move. “Users of the official RPG Maker forums – a vibrant community hub for the famed game engine – are rushing to save years of valuable discussion and resources following the news of its impending shut-down.”

The Otherworldly Circus #4: Idle Days

We spent the following day trying to be inconspicuous. Pierre might have breathed in too much smoke – or some fumes – back on the job. That or he ate (or drank) something that didn’t quite agree with him. Either way he was indisposed and Gust magnanimously offered to take care of him. Which, obviously, was the perfect excuse for him to stay out of sight of anyone, considering he had a bounty put on him.

Or well, the bounty was for the ridiculously muscular dude that interfered before dock workers could start putting out the fires on that ship. Gust might be a poor twig of a guy that the Fists are trying (badly) to frame, but there’s no point in risking some idiot thinking it’s him in that poster, right?

And so we paid a visit to Fili — the guy we caught by the shipyard awhile ago — early in the morning. Since we did have the wood already and actually had some money to pay for the work.

Well, I said “paid a visit” but he only really gave us vague and frankly inaccurate directions. Fortunately for us, shouting: “HEY FILI!” drew the attention of someone. That someone turned out to be Fili’s landlord.

He, at first, tried deflecting and saying he knows three guys named Fili and then mentioning a painter. Once we mentioned we had a job for the shipbuilder Fili, and that he told us to meet him here, the landlord became very happy. “Maybe he’ll finally pay his rent on time, then,” he said as he led us to the shipbuilder’s room.

Hiring Fili went smoothly, though he told us to organise some help if we wanted the work done in less than a week. That’s when the landlord said he could organise a couple of workers… For 8 Valads per day, which was what we agreed on with Fili. Which, come to think of it, was a rather outrageous asking price for what it got us: a couple of drunkards that — admittedly — were able to hold things steadily, despite themselves staggering and swaying about, from what Fili told us.

With that done, we went back to the Mercenaries’ Guild, to look for some odd jobs. I decided to play courier, delivering packages all over the city. I haven’t paid attention to what Jene, Laren and Jeanne did… But they mentioned helping out hold down goblins? I didn’t ask.

In the evening, Fili came back, telling us he’d need nails and bolts for the repairs, he was baffled by the fact we actually flew on that thing without anyone falling to their doom it the ship literally falling into pieces. He said he could deal with that, but he’d need 20 Valads, but he also want in a rush for those yet, since there was still work to do regardless. We said we’ll tell him the next day. He also told us it would be a good idea to have someone on the lookout, in case the Fists — or anyone else, really — decided to mess with our ship.

Next day in the morning we dropped by the Chemists. We finally, finally got something to call the guy we always interacted with; well… the next best thing after a name, anyway: a moniker.

So, “Sergeant” had a couple of jobs for us to choose from. The one we decided on would need us to get ready in the evening. While we were there we asked about the things Fili brought up. To sum it up, yeah Fili’s estimate was accurate and we might as well leave it up to him, since none of us has any inking about metalworking in any shape way or form. And we paid off a kid to keep an eye out for our ship. Or well, paid Sergeant to pay off a kid.

With that concluded we decided to do some more odd jobs from the mercenaries, more money and a record of completed jobs might be of use. While going to the Guild, we paid a visit to Fili in order to let him know we got a lookout, as well as giving him the funds to get the missing materials.

The rest of the day went very similarly to how the previous one went.

Close to midnight, we set off to perform our little… operation.

[Previous Session]

The Otherworldly Circus #4: Idle Days

We spent the following day trying to be inconspicuous. Pierre might have breathed in too much smoke – or some fumes – back on the job. That or he ate (or drank) something that didn’t quite agree with him. Either way he was indisposed and Gust magnanimously offered to take care of him. Which, obviously, was the perfect excuse for him to stay out of sight of anyone, considering he had a bounty put on him.

Or well, the bounty was for the ridiculously muscular dude that interfered before dock workers could start putting out the fires on that ship. Gust might be a poor twig of a guy that the Fists are trying (badly) to frame, but there’s no point in risking some idiot thinking it’s him in that poster, right?

And so we paid a visit to Fili — the guy we caught by the shipyard awhile ago — early in the morning. Since we did have the wood already and actually had some money to pay for the work.

Well, I said “paid a visit” but he only really gave us vague and frankly inaccurate directions. Fortunately for us, shouting: “HEY FILI!” drew the attention of someone. That someone turned out to be Fili’s landlord.

He, at first, tried deflecting and saying he knows three guys named Fili and then mentioning a painter. Once we mentioned we had a job for the shipbuilder Fili, and that he told us to meet him here, the landlord became very happy. “Maybe he’ll finally pay his rent on time, then,” he said as he led us to the shipbuilder’s room.

Hiring Fili went smoothly, though he told us to organise some help if we wanted the work done in less than a week. That’s when the landlord said he could organise a couple of workers… For 8 Valads per day, which was what we agreed on with Fili. Which, come to think of it, was a rather outrageous asking price for what it got us: a couple of drunkards that — admittedly — were able to hold things steadily, despite themselves staggering and swaying about, from what Fili told us.

With that done, we went back to the Mercenaries’ Guild, to look for some odd jobs. I decided to play courier, delivering packages all over the city. I haven’t paid attention to what Jene, Laren and Jeanne did… But they mentioned helping out hold down goblins? I didn’t ask.

In the evening, Fili came back, telling us he’d need nails and bolts for the repairs, he was baffled by the fact we actually flew on that thing without anyone falling to their doom it the ship literally falling into pieces. He said he could deal with that, but he’d need 20 Valads, but he also want in a rush for those yet, since there was still work to do regardless. We said we’ll tell him the next day. He also told us it would be a good idea to have someone on the lookout, in case the Fists — or anyone else, really — decided to mess with our ship.

Next day in the morning we dropped by the Chemists. We finally, finally got something to call the guy we always interacted with; well… the next best thing after a name, anyway: a moniker.

So, “Sergeant” had a couple of jobs for us to choose from. The one we decided on would need us to get ready in the evening. While we were there we asked about the things Fili brought up. To sum it up, yeah Fili’s estimate was accurate and we might as well leave it up to him, since none of us has any inking about metalworking in any shape way or form. And we paid off a kid to keep an eye out for our ship. Or well, paid Sergeant to pay off a kid.

With that concluded we decided to do some more odd jobs from the mercenaries, more money and a record of completed jobs might be of use. While going to the Guild, we paid a visit to Fili in order to let him know we got a lookout, as well as giving him the funds to get the missing materials.

The rest of the day went very similarly to how the previous one went.

Close to midnight, we set off to perform our little… operation.

[Previous Session]

Eight trends I’ve noticed from watching hour of livestreams from Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox and more https://www.theguardian.com/games/2026/jun/10/eight-trends-from-summer-game-fest-nintendo-playstation-xbox #Games #Culture #RolePlayingGames #ActionGames #Nintendo #Xbox #Playstation