RPG Blokes

This week we’re diving into the finer points of gaming and tackling those pesky cheats! We’ve witnessed it all over the years so you won’t fool us. If you’re keen to stay informed and spot rule-breakers like we do, join us. You might even learn something about your fellow gamers – if you can ever believe another word of what they say that is! Support the show Sign up to RPG Blokes Plus and gain ac...

In this episode of the RPG Blokes podcast, we tackle the timeless debate of battle mapping versus theatre of the mind in tabletop gaming. We examine whether using physical maps and miniatures enhances the combat experience or if relying on imagination fosters deeper engagement. Our discussions include insights from John, Stephen, and Barry as we navigate how each method influences player experienc...

Fifteen years have passed since the necromancer Heinrich Kemmler was trapped and defeated. But his evil is about to begin anew. High in the Grey Mountains, chance - or fate - brings the meeting of a madman and a Chaos Daemon. And thanks to that chance, an Undead Army masses among the high peaks, preparing to roll down on the settlements below. In the isolated monastery of La Maisontaal, one senior...

Anyone who knows the RPG Blokes knows that Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay is the big one for us. It’s the game that traded shiny armour and high magic for mud, disease, and a healthy dose of Chaos. This week, we are beyond chuffed to be joined by absolute RPG royalty: Graeme Davis , one of the original creators of WFRP and the architect behind the re-release of the legendary The Enemy Within campaign....

In this episode of RPG Blokes, we discuss essential survival tips for Dungeons & Dragons characters. We emphasize the importance of party cohesion, checking for traps, and engaging in role play to avoid reckless actions. Strategic positioning in combat and effective communication among players are highlighted as keys to success. Through anecdotes, we illustrate how diplomacy can avert danger a...

Today, we’ve got a bonus episode for you all, and we’re going to cut our teeth on a new RPG. We’ve invited a true heavyweight from the World of Darkness—the one and only Lore By Night—to guide us through a Session Zero for Vampire: The Masquerade. If you’ve ever wondered how a group of “seasoned” (alright, middle-aged) blokes handles a game built on political intrigue and personal horror rather th...

In this episode, we chat with Little Mark, a miniature painting expert, about the impact of miniatures in tabletop RPGs and the therapeutic benefits of painting. He shares his personal journey, evolving from a novice to a competition-level painter, while emphasizing the joy of the process over perfection. We discuss essential techniques and tools for beginners and highlight the supportive communit...

Grab your dice and light a candle for the misunderstood bards of the past. In this episode, Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry tackle the big one: The Redemption of D&D. We look back at the 80s when the media linked our hobby to the occult and suicide, and compare it to the modern era of celebrity DMs and Wembley Arena sell-outs. It gets a bit spicy as the blokes discuss how modern politics and &qu...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, we explore the fascinating world of dice superstitions with fellow gaming enthusiasts. We each share our unique relationships with our dice, revealing a mix of methodical approaches and casual attitudes. Our discussion unveils a variety of die-related superstitions, including the “no-touch” rule and the idea of dice jails as a punishment for underperforming dice.  We...

In advance of our Interview with Dragon Warriors Co-Creator Dave Morris we are pleased to release the first episode of our live-play session of Dragon Warriors.  With DW old timer Jon as GM, Mark, Barry, and Stephen create unique characters, including a noble knight, a dubious warlock, and a comically named assassin. We arrive in the town of Overdale and encounter a mysterious lady called Galadria...

In this episode, we explore the nostalgic impact of Dragon Warriors, a cornerstone in role-playing games that has shaped our gaming journeys for 40 years. Joining us is Dave Morris, co-creator of Dragon Warriors, who shares stories from its inception, including the groundbreaking choice to serialize the game into accessible booklets. We discuss the game’s distinct features, like its limited charac...

Welcome back to RPG Blokes ! It’s Season 2, and we’re diving into what really happens after your first few games — when “trying D&D” turns into “I think I’ve got a new hobby.” We talk about what comes next: the growing time commitment, the emotional rollercoaster of your first character, and the new worlds that open up beyond the table. From painting miniatures and buying dice sets you definit...

This episode’s short and sweet — we lift the lid on RPG Blokes Plus , our subscriber service. For just $3 a month, you’ll get additional episodes throughout the year, and the chance to help us keep the dice rolling. We explain how it works, what you get, and why we’ve launched it. If you’ve enjoyed the show so far, this is how you get more of it , particularly live plays — more laughs, more games,...

In this season finale of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry look back on their journey through Season 1 with humour, honesty, and a healthy dose of self-deprecation. They revisit standout episodes, share behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and reflect on the show’s aim to welcome new players while still offering insight for veterans. The conversation ranges from personal highlights—like the...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the often-overlooked topic of age in tabletop gaming, challenging the idea that Dungeons & Dragons is just for the young. They share their own stories of entering or re-entering the hobby later in life and celebrate the richness older players bring to the table. The conversation highlights the camaraderie, creativity, a...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry tackle one of Dungeons & Dragons’ most iconic (and often misunderstood) mechanics: the alignment system. From lawful good to chaotic evil, the team breaks down each of the nine alignments, sharing how they influence gameplay, storytelling, and party dynamics. The conversation highlights common pitfalls and player experiences—li...

In this episode of RPG Blokes , hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the world of tabletop RPGs beyond Dungeons & Dragons , offering insights for middle-aged newcomers eager to expand their gaming horizons. The discussion covers standout indie titles like The One Ring , Earthdawn , and Call of Cthulhu , emphasizing fresh mechanics, immersive lore, and alternative genre experiences. They...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, the team dives into the world of Dungeons & Dragons—often called the perfect starting point for newcomers to tabletop RPGs. Stephen, the D&D veteran, shares insights from playing every edition since the 80s, while John highlights how the polished resources make the game approachable. Barry, with five years’ experience, reflects on overcoming the nerves of ste...

In this episode of RPG Blokes , the team explores the different styles of roleplaying games, helping middle-aged newcomers find the right fit for their first adventures. Mark, John, and Barry kick things off with sandbox games, where player freedom drives the story. John champions this open style, while Barry notes the challenge of keeping players engaged. They move on to dungeon crawls and hack-a...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, the crew tackles the mysteries of being a Dungeon Master, exploring the essential role this figure plays in tabletop RPGs. Whether you're new to gaming or just curious about what goes on behind the DM screen, there's valuable insight here for everyone. Mark, Stephen, John, and Barry share their seasoned experiences, offering perspectives from both sides of...

In this episode of RPG Blokes , the crew dives into the essentials of table etiquette, offering insider tips on how to enhance the group experience in tabletop RPGs. Whether you’re new to role-playing or a seasoned player, there’s something here for everyone looking to strengthen their social game at the table. The hosts cover key aspects like punctuality, respecting others’ turns, and when it’s a...

In this episode of RPG Blokes , we help new players take their first big step into the world of Dungeons & Dragons—creating their first character. Where do you start? Do you need a backstory? Should you plan every detail, or just roll the dice and see what happens? The Blokes are here to guide you through the process, making character creation less intimidating and a lot more fun. We kick thin...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, we continue our guide for new and returning players with First Session Essentials Part 2 . This time, we focus on what other paraphernalia you might need to bring to the gaming table and what you can safely leave behind. We start with the essentials—yes, you’ll need dice, but don’t panic if you don’t have your own set (yet). Digital vs. paper character sheets? Both h...

In this episode of RPG Blokes , we explore what new and returning players need to know before their first RPG session. This is Part 1 of a two-part series designed to ease you into the world of tabletop gaming and help you make the most of your first adventure. We dive into the importance of preparation, from understanding basic rules to deciding whether you need a rulebook at all. Do you need to...

In this episode of RPG Blokes , Mark, Barry, Jon, and Stephen tackle a fundamental question for newcomers and seasoned players alike: “Do you have the time to play an RPG?” With work, family, and life’s responsibilities, it’s not always easy to carve out time for hobbies. The Blokes discuss the realities of balancing work schedules, commuting, and family commitments with the time demands of gaming...