GM Word of the Week

We all know about the tricky little devils in D&D known as the gnomes.

Which, of course, means we don’t know anything at all about the very interesting and misunderstood people we call gnomes. Because that’s how this show works. So here is a gnome-centric episode to tell you all the things you don’t know about them. And yes, this is part of the magic series.

Step back into the classroom that is GM Word of the Week as we continue our look at the history of magic and some of the influential people involved. In this episode, the man, the myth, the marketing opportunity, Faust. Are deals with the devil all they are cracked up to be? Probably not. But then again, it depends on what your eventual goal is.

Join us on a spellbinding voyage through history as we unveil the enthralling connections between natural magic, scientific evolution, and the ominous era of witch hunts. From Renaissance luminaries shaping the mystical landscape to the perplexing dance between science and pseudo-science, this episode unravels the threads that wove through centuries. Dive into the intrigue of trials by combat, Charlemagne's stern decree, and the Lombard code's caution against witchcraft accusations. As we navigate this mesmerizing tapestry, the late 1700s beckon, marking the subtle retreat of magic amid political upheavals. Discover the untold stories and captivating mysteries in this riveting episode that unfolds the magical secrets of bygone eras.

Part three of our ongoing series about magic and the people who use it.

In this episode we discuss why you can’t mix your Madonna and Kabbalah, the history of Jewish Mysticism, why the name of God is so hard to say, and how there’s just one magic potion we are aware of that actually, truly, works. And then we tell you how to make it.

Here it is the second part of our Magic series which contains the first part of the history of magic.

But of course, there are several complicated things to get out of the way first before we can really dive in and get to grips with what it is Dungeons and Dragons is trying to do with magic in the first place. One of the biggest questions being, where do you start with the history of magic? And it’s not easy to answer. But we make a beginning of it by way of a bowl and a book. So sit back and enjoy another lengthy episode of GM Word of the Week

The long awaited first episode in a series all about Magic in Dungeons and Dragons.

But first, we have to do some ground work before we can really talk about Magic in D&D. We have to clear up a popular misconception about what magic is, then work out what we mean by magic, and define what isn’t actually magic in the first place.

As you might expect, it takes some time.

Yes, you read that right. Another Lost Episode has arrived.

And wouldn’t you know it, there’s just a bit more on Nostalgia that we had laying around. Fortunately, this brings our Nostalgia series to a final close and completes a request made quite some time ago by the shows original researcher and writer, The Angry GM, to actually cover the topic. And so we have. Finally and at last.

Also, there’s a bit about why Charisma is so screwed up as an ability stat. So enjoy that as well.

We explore the rich history of AI, starting with the works of Hero of Alexandria, who created mechanical devices that paved the way for future advancements in automation.

We also dive into the Islamic Golden Age and the contributions of Al-Jazari and Al-Khwarizmi, who played a key role in developing mathematical algorithms and automated machines. From there, we trace the evolution of AI through the ages, covering key developments and milestones along the way. Finally, we touch on the potential risks and rewards of AI and the ongoing debate around its impact on society.

Never ask a writer where they get their ideas. They haven’t got a clue.

Fortunately for everyone, the Ancient Greeks did have a clue. Several clues in fact. But in order to understand what was really going on, you need to get to grips with muses. And some Greek history. And a bit of what passes for the Greek religion, such as it was. And then, of course, you have to make sure everyone who wants a muse has one. Including people you wouldn’t think needed one.

Here is an episode inside of which is contained a red herring or two. For once, though, it's a common phrase that we use regularly that means exactly what you've always thought it meant. And that's great, don't you think? How nice.

Except… Well, you and I both know we wouldn’t be here if there wasn’t something that needed explaining about this phrase we all know so well. But what could it possibly be? And just how could it help you run a better game session? I guess you’ll just have to listen to find out.