Most tabletop gamers are familiar with the classic D20 system, but the vast universe of dice mechanics holds far more secrets and surprises. In this episode of Two Kobolds in a Trenchcoat, Shiv and Aely explode the myth that D20 reigns supreme by dissecting unconventional systems like D10 pools, stress dice in Alien, the transformative Breathless mechanics, and the intricate custom dice of Star Wars: Edge of the Empire. They reveal how these systems enhance storytelling, heighten tension, and introduce fresh gameplay dynamics, whether you're a GM craving more narrative spice or a player looking for a thrill.

Our friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10

When is it worth creating something from scratch? How do you ensure your big boss leaves a lasting impression and keeps your players on their toes? If you're tired of cookie-cutter monsters and predictable battles, this episode is your ultimate guide to crafting encounters that captivate and challenge at just the right moments.

Discover how to turn simple creatures into unforgettable foes by blending or adjusting stats, resistances, and abilities, making each fight feel personal and significant. Get insights on how to experiment with layered tactics, unpredictable bosses, and even enemy evolutions that adapt to your players' strategies, ensuring combat stays exciting and dynamic.

Our friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10

The darkness of space hides secrets and danger, unlike anything you've explored before. In this episode, Shiv dives into Coriolis: The Great Dark, a standalone sci-fi fantasy game set on a battered, mysterious asteroid city forged from the wreckage of a shattered civilisation. If you love cosmic horror mixed with hard sci-fi and riveting faction politics, this episode is your ticket to a new universe of adventure.

We break down the core rulebooks' intriguing lore, from the desperate Diaspora fleeing a war-torn universe to the dark secrets lurking in the ruins of the Builders, and how these elements create a universe teeming with stories that matter. Shiv highlights why Coriolis appeals to fans of Alien, Blade Runner, and Symbaroum, with mechanics that favour immersive narrative and high-stakes risk-taking. Whether you're hunting artefacts, avoiding cosmic corruption, or navigating faction rivalries, this episode shows why Coriolis is a must-have for players craving a rich, challenging space exploration experience.

Perfect for GMs seeking a gritty, resource-management-heavy game, or players drawn to cosmic horror and atmospheric world-building. If you’re ready to explore a universe where danger lurks behind every asteroid and hope is a fragile beam in the dark, this episode will leave you eager to roll the dice. Get ready for a new dimension of sci-fi storytelling that’s as beautiful as it is deadly, because in Coriolis, the dark is only the beginning.

Our friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Special Track

'Machinery of the Stars' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10

The secret to overcoming the world-building block might be simpler than you think, and it’s not just about grinding harder or waiting it out. When even seasoned creators hit a daunting wall, what’s the secret to breaking through? Aely's solo spin on this episode reveals how to turn frustration into fresh inspiration, even when prompts seem impossible to crack. If you’ve ever stared at a blank page, feeling stuck on generating new lore, characters, or entire worlds, this is your must-listen remedy.

Aely shares personal stories from her own creative struggles during a major world-building challenge, including how she tackled a controversial prompt about a lost will that defied her established rules. You'll discover specific techniques like "adjacent thinking," using world-building prompts creatively, and leaning on tools like random generators, and how to turn their randomness into a win. She breaks down the importance of writing buddies and why just having someone to bounce ideas off can shatter even the most stubborn blocks. Plus, the episode dives into common misconceptions, such as the idea that autism and world-building are not barriers but rather different ways your brain can thrive.

Our friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10

Most GMs struggle with keeping their storytelling on track without falling into the dreaded railroading trap. If your game feels like it's wandering or long pauses kill the pacing, this episode is your secret weapon. Shiv and Aely reveal practical, easy-to-implement techniques to guide your story smoothly, without taking away player agency.

In this lively discussion, they dive into real-world tips like using visual timers, countdown dice, and props to create a sense of urgency that nudges players onward. You'll discover how to set effective deadlines, craft subtle nudges instead of heavy-handed railroad tactics, and leverage player psychology, like FOMO, to keep everyone engaged. Plus, learn how to handle long-term campaigns with downtime, side quests, and player distractions without losing momentum. They also explore how to read your group's vibe, use humour and innuendo strategically, and gently steer your story when players go off-script.

Whether you're running your first game or you're a seasoned storyteller, understanding these nuanced techniques can transform chaotic sessions into cohesive adventures. The stakes? Less frustration, more fun, and stories that feel both dynamic and player-driven. Missing these tips might mean endless side quests, lost plots, or feeling like you're herding cats, so mastering story guidance is essential.

Our friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10

Uncover the truth about metagaming, why it can either ruin or enhance your role-playing experience. Is your obsession with inside info hurting your game, or can it be a secret weapon? Find out how top game masters and players navigate the fine line between strategic advantage and breaking immersion in this fiery debate.

In this episode, we break down the different faces of metagaming, from rule clarifications and strategy discussions to the sneaky ways players exploit or undermine their characters’ realism. You’ll discover: the subtle but impactful difference between helpful meta tactics and outright cheating; how to use metagaming to deepen storytelling without breaking immersion; and why some forms of table talk can be a vital part of cooperative play. Whether you’re a seasoned Dungeon Master or a new adventurer, knowing when and how to use meta-knowledge can make or break your game.

Our friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10

Unlikable characters can be some of the most compelling in storytelling, but why do we gravitate toward them, and how do they shape our game nights? In this candid episode, two veteran TTRPG players dive deep into the psychology of complex, flawed characters. Discover how characters like the passive healer, the abrasive antihero, or the unpredictable rogue reflect not only the story but the players behind them.

This episode is perfect for GMs seeking to understand the layered nature of NPCs and players exploring morally grey areas. If you've ever wondered why unlikable characters are often the most memorable, or how to craft protagonists with depth, this conversation offers essential insights.

Whether you're a player, a storyteller, or just love delving into the fascinating layers of character psychology, this episode will challenge your perspective and inspire richer storytelling. Hit play, your next game session might never be the same.

Our friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10

Unlock the hidden power of tool proficiencies in your tabletop RPG campaigns. Despite their potential to fuel creativity and problem-solving, tools are often overlooked or underutilized—until now.

In this episode, we peel back the curtain on how tool proficiencies can transform ordinary gameplay into epic moments. Discover why most players never capitalize on their tools beyond basic uses and learn practical ways to incorporate them into your adventures. Whether it's crafting clever non-combat solutions or deconstructing obstacles with expert knowledge, using tools creatively can turn the tide of any challenge.

Our friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10

Most of us don't create backup characters — but maybe we should. When a favorite drops dead mid-adventure or a campaign takes an unexpected turn, the pain of losing a character can be overwhelming. Yet, the idea of deliberately crafting a "backup" could save you from heartbreak...or curse your game entirely. In this episode, two seasoned players explore the unspoken rules and superstitions around backup characters, revealing why they never intentionally make them and how such a decision can affect your campaigns and storytellingOur friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10

Most players still misunderstand the true difference between intelligence and wisdom. In this episode of Two Kobolds in a Trench Coat, we unveil the hidden mechanics behind these core D&D stats that can transform your characters and gameplay.

Ever wondered why perception checks spot the obvious, while investigation digs deeper? Or how wisdom applies to survival instincts versus knowledge of the law?

We break down these distinctions with concrete examples—from disarming traps to choosing the right skill for the job. You'll discover how a low intelligence score doesn't mean you're dumb, and that wisdom isn't just about knowing facts but applying practical judgment. They explore surprising insights, like how animal instincts mimic biological "wisdom" and how role-playing with mismatched stats can unlock new creative possibilities.

Our friend Toni has created a great Paladin Subclass. If you need a new subclass option for your character, go check out the link below!

Support our friend Toni and buy their subclass - Oath of the Ancestors Paladin subclass! - https://ko-fi.com/s/d8117d909f

Intro & Outro

'Rainbows' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for the DieHardDice Promo is

'Soar' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

Music for World Anvil Promo is

'Amberlight' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au

To use our promo code, visit the link belowhttps://www.dieharddice.com/pages/_go_?ref=13711:1281321&discount=Kobold10

Or use code Kobold10 at checkout.

We are now affiliated with World Anvil. To use our code, click the link for 10% off! - https://worldanvil.pxf.io/Kobold10