On this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast - We break down the art of smacking, grappling, and generally making your DM cry.

Episode Summary: Ever wanted to suplex a dragon? How about blind an orc with a well-placed pocket full of dirt? In this episode, our hosts take a deep dive into combat maneuvers across Pathfinder 1E, Pathfinder 2E, and Dungeons & Dragons 5E, exploring how these tactical tools can make or break a fight.

We tackle the infamous grapple flowchart (yes, that thing exists), discuss why Pathfinder 2’s tagging system makes life easier, and reminisce about the chaotic glory of PF1’s maneuvers like Dirty Trick and Sunder. Whether you love combat crunch or prefer 5E’s simplified "grapple and shove" approach, there’s something here for every tactician at the table.

Plus, we chat about weapon masteries, homebrew rule flexibility, and why new DMs should break the rules (responsibly, of course). So grab your rulebooks, prepare your trip attacks, and let’s get tactical!

Key Takeaways:

• PF2’s tagging system makes combat easier to navigate, but some players miss the crunch.
• Combat maneuvers = tactical genius – they’re not just for magic users!
• Learning PF2 is like learning a new language – fluency in rules is key.
• PF1’s CMB/CMD system is complex but allows for wild combat creativity.
• Grappling is both powerful and a logistical nightmare – be ready to double your combat time!
• Battlemaster fighters in 5E get all the fun maneuvers, leaving other classes feeling left out.
• Dirty Trick (PF1) is underrated – ever wanted to blind someone with an improvised move? You can!
• Size matters in combat – grappling a giant is significantly harder than tripping a goblin.
• PF1 had an overwhelming amount of maneuvers, while 5E boiled it down to just grapple and shove.
• Weapon masteries & new systems like Tales of the Valiant add more martial depth to combat.
• Homebrew makes everything better – house rules can improve mechanics & storytelling.
• New DMs: loosen up! Don’t be a rules lawyer; creativity beats strict rule-following.

Whether you're a seasoned Pathfinder pro, a new DM trying to navigate combat mechanics, or just here for the chaos, this episode has something for you. Now, go forth and trip your enemies into oblivion!

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Tyler Kamstra

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Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
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Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati