Tales & Tactics

In this episode, we dive deep into the art and science of army list writing and unit construction across a variety of wargames. From the streamlined formats of Warhammer 40K and Age of Sigmar to the meticulous detail of The Horus Heresy and The Old World, we explore how different games approach points values, upgrades, and balance. We also break down the structured Orders of Battle in BattleTech a...

In this episode, we dive deep into LaserStorm 2nd Edition, the fast-paced, large-scale sci-fi wargame designed for 6mm to 10mm mass battles. We break down its dynamic initiative system, streamlined combat mechanics, and deep unit customization, exploring what makes it one of the best options for epic tabletop warfare. Whether you’re a veteran of classic Epic-scale wargames or new to the genre, we...

In this episode, we dive into the wild, unpredictable world of magic in tabletop RPGs, exploring everything from classic Vancian spellcasting and magic points to other innovative systems. We even touch on psionics and super powers. Breaking down how traditional games like Dungeons & Dragons have shaped the art of casting—with mechanics that range from rolling on unique spell tables with critic...

In this episode, we dive into Mage: The Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition , a game where belief shapes reality and the struggle for control is as dangerous as the magic itself. We break down its freeform magic system, the Ascension War between the Traditions and the Technocracy, and the ever-present risk of Paradox when pushing reality too far. From themes of power and rebellion to the personal j...

In this episode, we explore the art of adapting fiction and history into tabletop war games and RPGs. From faithfully recreating historical battles, to reimagining sci-fi and fantasy literature as a gameable setting, we break down the challenges and creative choices involved. How do designers balance accuracy with playability? What makes an adaptation feel authentic while keeping it engaging at th...

In this episode, we dive into War of the Ring: Second Edition , the epic strategy board game that brings the struggle for Middle-earth to life. We explore its origins, tracing its lineage back to the original SPI game and how designers Roberto Di Meglio, Marco Maggi, and Francesco Nepitello refined the concept into a rich, asymmetric experience. From the Free Peoples' desperate defense to the Shad...

In this episode of Tales & Tactics , we’re exploring the vital role of weapons, armor, and equipment in tabletop games. From crafting and durability to range, damage, and special qualities, we’ll break down how these elements influence gameplay and storytelling. We’ll also examine survival mechanics, consumables, and how tools like torches or rope add immersion and problem-solving opportunitie...

Explore the origins of Metamorphosis Alpha , the groundbreaking 1976 RPG by James M. Ward that launched science fiction into tabletop gaming. Set aboard the derelict starship Warden , players navigate a post-apocalyptic world of radiation, mutations, and forgotten technology inspired by classic sci-fi novels like Non-Stop and Orphans of the Sky . We'll dive into its innovative mechanics, from muta...

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of miniature agnostic gaming — where your creativity with miniatures knows no bounds. From historical games that transcend specific manufacturers to the art of kitbashing and the philosophy of WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get), we discuss how players breathe new life into orphaned games like Mordheim and Warzone . We cover standout examples of...

In this episode, we delve into Hobgoblin , the brutal fantasy wargame designed by Mike Hutchinson, the mind behind Gaslands and A Billion Suns . Inspired by classic large-scale fantasy battles, Hobgoblin embraces fast-paced, high-stakes combat where miniatures meet quick and bloody ends. We explore the game’s innovative keyword-based system that promotes creative army building, the striking visual...

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of meta-currencies – those in-game resources managed outside the narrative that empower players to wield a fragment of the Game Master’s authority. From Fate ’s Compels to Call of Cthulhu ’s Pushed rolls, meta-currencies give players agency, encourage roleplay, and add tension through risk and reward. We break down how different systems like Numene...

In this episode, we dive into the strange and exotic world of Numenera , the award-winning tabletop RPG by Monte Cook Games. Set a billion years in the future on Earth, after the rise and fall of eight advanced civilizations, Numenera blurs the lines between science and magic with its mysterious artifacts, bizarre technology, and themes of discovery and survival. We’ll explore its origins, influen...

In this episode we explore the essential tools that bring tabletop games to life: dice, miniatures, maps, and more. From the iconic d20 to more exotic narrative dice, we break down how different materials and mechanics shape gameplay. We also touch on the role of miniatures, maps, and tokens in enhancing immersion, and highlight how various systems like D&D, BRP, and Genesys use these tools to...

Explore the captivating world of Legend of the Five Rings (L5R), a franchise that began as a collectible card game in 1995 and evolved into a beloved tabletop RPG blending samurai drama and fantasy intrigue. We delve into its dynamic "Roll and Keep" mechanics, elemental gameplay, and unique systems like Honor, Glory, and Status, which bring Rokugan’s rigid social hierarchies to life while challeng...

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the mechanics that shape turn initiative and activation in tabletop and role-playing games. From classic Dungeons & Dragons' Dexterity-based rolls to the unique card-draw system of Sharp Practice, we explore how various games determine who acts first and in what sequence. Learn about fixed initiatives in Call of Cthulhu, the narrative-driven approach o...

Join us in this episode as we delve into the evolution of Bolt Action, with the third edition of this popular 28mm WWII miniature wargame, by Warlord Games. We’ll compare its journey from the earlier editions, through to the current game, which features significant gameplay updates by renowned designer Alessio Cavatore. Discover the refined mechanics, including the dynamic “dice-pull” activation s...

In this episode, we dive deep into the mechanics of fear, sanity, and corruption across a variety of tabletop and role-playing games. From the cosmic horrors of Call of Cthulhu to the body-warping mutations of Warhammer 40K: Dark Heresy , we explore how these mechanics impact gameplay, character development, and player agency. We’ll look at how different games model fear, stress, and madness—wheth...

In this episode, we delve into Chill , the classic horror role-playing game first released by Pacesetter Ltd in 1984, with a spotlight on its second edition published by Mayfair Games in 1990. We explore the origins of Chill , how it compares to its peers like Call of Cthulhu , and its unique approach to flexible character creation. We’ll talk system mechanics, from skill checks to fear and terror...

In this episode we dive into the numbers that shape your tabletop experience! From Dungeons & Dragons to Necromunda and beyond, we explore how attributes, skills, and stats define a character’s abilities, delving into classic characteristics like Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence, and their derivatives like hit points and spell points. We'll also break down the difference between level-bas...

In this episode, we explore Dux Britanniarum , a 2012 release by Richard Clarke from TooFatLardies, which pioneered core mechanics like Force Morale that became central in later games. Known for its balance between historical depth and enjoyable gameplay, this skirmish campaign game allows players to relive the turbulent post-Roman period in Britain. With the Saxons raiding British lands, the game...

In this episode, we explore how time-keeping and distance impact gameplay across RPGs, wargames, and board games. We discuss how different systems, from the tactical rounds of Dungeons & Dragons to the hex grids of GURPS , handle time and movement, influencing resource management, strategy, and game balance. With examples from various games, we highlight how these mechanics shape both combat s...

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the unique world of Dungeon Crawl Classics (DCC) RPG. We explore the fascinating history of the game, its association with the old-school renaissance movement, and the creative vision of Goodman Games. We also delve into the core concepts of the Dice Chain, Gonzo Fantasy, and Appendix N's influence on the game play of DCC. From the chaotic, unpredictabilit...

In this episode, we explore the concepts of scope and scale in wargames and RPGs. Scope focuses on the player's perspective, defining the limits and range of their actions, while scale determines how close we are to the action and the level of abstraction. We dive into various examples, from skirmish and grand strategy games like BattleTech and De Bellis Antiquitatis , to RPGs such as The One Ring...

In this episode, we dive into the quirky and fast-paced world of Space Weirdos and Sword Weirdos , skirmish games created by Casey Garske. We'll explore the unique mechanics, creative freedom, and DIY nature of these rules-light miniatures games, uncovering what sets them apart in the tabletop community. Whether you're a veteran skirmisher or new to the genre, join us as we break down what makes t...

In this episode, we continue our exploration of the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 1st Edition Dungeon Master's Guide, a defining resource for running the game and the core of this system. We'll uncover the book's deep influence on the role-playing game landscape, focusing on its comprehensive though somewhat esoteric rules, and invaluable tools, rich with ideas for running immersive campaigns. J...