RPGBOT.Podcast

In Part II of our Werewolf the Apocalypse Actual Play, we enter Birgit Van Gelder's Creepy House of Glitches—where werewolves transform, supernatural attacks strike, and... our audio equipment needs a blessing. Will our heroes defeat the mysterious intruder or will the real battle be against Wi-Fi demons and rogue microphones? Tune in for epic combat, unconscious allies, and the deep philosophical question: Why does tech always fail when things get spooky? Listen now, if you dare… just don't blame us for any supernatural buffering.

Summary

In this hilarious and suspenseful second half our Werewolf the Apocalypse Actual Play episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, the crew completes a thrilling RPG adventure—complete with supernatural chaos and… technical glitches. The scene is set in a spooky house belonging to none other than Birgit Van Gelder, a mysterious character whose backstory is as complex as the podcast's audio problems.

As the tension builds, the team battles not only their game adversaries but also a rogue microphone and a few unexpected software crashes. Just as they're about to face down a creepy intruder, the sound cuts out, leaving listeners to wonder: who will emerge victorious—our heroes or the glitch gremlins?

Cue intense combat mechanics, character transformations, and one very unconscious ally. Between strategizing their next move and fighting off supernatural baddies, the players also find time to contemplate life's big questions—like why the Wi-Fi always fails at the worst moment.

Tune in for epic battles, emotional stakes, and some unforgettable Werewolf: The Apocalypse chaos that leaves the team with more questions than answers—and an introduction to some shady new factions. Don't worry, though; they promise the next episode will have fewer technical issues. Probably.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

Links

• Werewolf: The Apocalypse 5th Edition Core Rulebook (affiliate link)
  • Physical
  • Digital

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

The RPGBOT crew is back, and this time we're diving deep into werewolf drama, diner banter, AND suspicious horticulture clubs (because who doesn't love a good cult mystery?). Join us in Barton's Crux for some hilarious character intros, greasy food debates, and a wild investigation that takes us from pie to murder rituals in the woods! Murder, mayhem, and the WORST cops ever? Check. 🐾 Werewolf transformations? You bet. All the laughs? ALWAYS.

Summary

In this laugh-out-loud episode, the RPGBOT crew dives into the wild world of the Werewolf RPG, where fangs, fur, and…horticulture clubs? (Yeah, you read that right.) The gang introduces their colorful cast of werewolves living in the not-at-all-creepy town of Barton's Crux. They unpack their tragic (and sometimes ridiculously hilarious) backstories, including a mystery involving a guy named Mitchell and some seriously suspicious plants.

Cue a diner scene where our furry heroes debate the finer points of greasy food, what it means to be "successful" (spoiler: it's not about money, it's about looking cool while eating pie), and their eclectic personal styles. The squad bands together to track down a missing person, using their super-werewolf skills—because why investigate like normal people when you can shapeshift into a four-legged murder machine?

But wait, there's more! They trot off into the woods, sniffing out clues like canine detectives and stumble upon some gruesome evidence: bodies, rituals, and a potential cult (because, of course, there's a cult). Things take a turn for the seriously messed up as they realize their small-town murder mystery is way more "satanic ritual" than "Miss Marple."

Naturally, they also have to deal with the local cops, who are suspiciously bad at noticing werewolves in their midst. It's tense, it's awkward, and someone might accidentally get themselves arrested (again).

All in all, this episode is a rollercoaster of laughs, suspense, and fur-raising adventure. And don't worry—there's even more mayhem to come in the next one!

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

Links

• Werewolf: The Apocalypse 5th Edition Core Rulebook (affiliate link)
  • Physical
  • Digital

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we're talking TOOLS in TTRPGs. How do tools work in D&D and Pathfinder? How can we make them more than just a fancy hammer in a rogue's bag of tricks? Can a crowbar change your destiny? (Hint: Yes.) Join us as we get into the nuts, bolts, and… thieves' tools! Listen now and learn how to turn your humble toolkit into an epic storytelling device!

Materials Referenced in this Episode

Articles from RPGBOT.net

• Practical Guide to Tools – DnD 5e

DnD 5e

• Players Handbook (affiliate link)
• Xanathar's Guide to Everything (affiliate link)

Pathfinder 2e

• Core Rulebook (affiliate link)

Other Stuff

• Brennan Lee Mulligan
• Call of Cthulhu (affiliate link)
• Dimension 20
• Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
• Fantasy Flight Star Wars (affiliate link)
• Star Trek (The Chris Pine version)
• Star Wars: The Phantom Menace

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

The RPGBOT crew is going full moon this week with a deep dive into 🐺 Werewolf: The Apocalypse! Expect:

• Werewolf combat tips (because who doesn't need to know the best way to rip apart an enemy?)
• Character creation advice so your wolf doesn't have the social skills of a brick
• A heated debate: Do werewolves prefer fetch or frisbee?

Grab your silver bullets and tune in for a hairy good time!

Summary

In this fang-tastic episode, the RPGBOT crew dives paw-first into the world of Werewolf: The Apocalypse! Between howling with laughter and some seriously strategic bites of wisdom, they tackle everything from classic werewolf lore to the best ways to keep your furry alter ego from going full "rabid dog." Character creation takes center stage as the hosts debate the best ways to balance rage and humanity, while sprinkling in tips to avoid creating a werewolf with the social skills of a brick. Expect a deep dive into combat strategies, plenty of pun-laden humor, and even a discussion on the real question: do werewolves prefer fetch or frisbee? Whether you're a seasoned lycanthrope or just curious if the moon really brings out your wild side, this episode offers up laughs, insights, and a hairy good time.

Takeaways

• The werewolf trope often represents the struggle between humanity and primal instincts.
• Underworld faced legal issues due to similarities with World of Darkness lore.
• True Blood is considered a successful adaptation of Vampire: The Masquerade themes.
• Character creation in Werewolf: The Apocalypse is more structured compared to Vampire.
• Combat in Werewolf is especially deadly, particularly when in human form.
• Silver poses a serious threat to werewolves, inflicting aggravated damage.
• Touchstones are vital for maintaining a character's emotional balance and humanity.
• Chronicles in World of Darkness serve as the overarching campaign framework.
• Tenets guide player morality and shape in-game decisions and actions.
• The game promotes creativity in crafting character backstories and roleplaying interactions.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

Get ready for a howling good time on the latest RPGBOT.Podcast! The gang dives into Werewolf: The Apocalypse, where becoming a Garu means balancing your inner beast while trying not to accidentally maul your buddies. They explore the spirit world (aka the Umbra), debate which werewolf tribe cancels brunch over moral philosophy, and discuss rage management—yes, even werewolves need to chill. So, which furry tribe are you? Find out before the apocalypse hits!

Summary

Get ready for a howling good time as the RPGBOT.Podcast crew sinks their teeth into Werewolf: The Apocalypse! In this episode, they tackle the furry existential crisis of becoming a Garu—because, you know, nothing screams "fun" like balancing your inner beast while trying not to accidentally claw your friends. They dive deep into the game's lore, from the world-ending Apocalypse (no biggie) to the Worm, Wild, and other creatures that sound like they came straight out of an eco-conscious fever dream.

But wait, there's more! They sniff out the intricacies of the Umbra, the spirit world that mirrors our own—but with fewer Starbucks and more rampaging spirits. Tribal stereotypes get dissected, as they debate which werewolf pack is the most likely to cancel brunch over a slight misalignment of moral philosophy. Of course, no episode would be complete without raging out over mechanics—quite literally, as they explain how players juggle rage and transformation without turning into uncontrollable murder machines. Wrapping up with some character creation tips, they make sure you leave knowing exactly which furry tribe best suits your personality—because nothing says "self-discovery" like choosing your inner werewolf class!

Takeaways

• Thematic Core: The game explores themes of anger, societal conflict, and existential struggles.
• Cosmology Breakdown: Central to the game's lore is the balance between the Wild (creation), the Weaver (order), and the Worm (entropy and corruption).
• Historical Failures: The Garu (werewolves) have a history of failing to prevent the looming apocalypse, adding a layer of tragic responsibility.
• Becoming a Garu: The first transformation is traumatic and central to the character's identity, setting the stage for their role in the story.
• Tribal Societal Structure: Garu society is complex, with various tribes representing different ideologies:

• Red Talons: Now more moderate in their views.
• Shadow Lords: Believe in a "might makes right" philosophy.
• Silent Striders: Nomadic and open to knowledge.
• Silver Fangs: The self-proclaimed aristocracy of werewolves.
• Black Spiral Dancers: Oppose Gaia, embracing chaos and corruption.
• Rage Mechanics: Rage serves as a double-edged sword, a powerful resource that must be managed carefully to avoid losing control.

• The Umbra (Spirit World): A mystical realm that mirrors the real world, playing a key role in the game's spiritual and cosmic themes.
• Character Creation: Players choose from various tribes and auspices, each defining unique abilities and roles within Garu society.
• Community & Identity: The game emphasizes the importance of community and identity within the Garu, with groups like the Heart Wardens (creatives and storytellers) and the Ghost Council (witches and investigators).

Get ready to laugh as we break down the funniest ways status conditions wreck your DnD and Pathfinder characters! From being Charmed into helping the villain to running scared with Frightened or turning into a statue with Petrify—we've got it all. Tune in to this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast and find out why being Incapacitated is just an excuse for your party to make you the punchline.

Summary

Ever had your epic hero reduced to a gibbering mess because of a pesky status condition? Welcome to the wacky world of DnD and Pathfinder mishaps! In our uproarious roundup, we explore how your legendary warrior becomes a helpless bystander faster than you can say "natural one."

First up, Charmed—when your mighty barbarian thinks the dragon is just a scaly best friend who wants to borrow the kingdom's keys. Then there's Dominated, where you become the DM's puppet, attacking your own party while they scream, "Not again!"

Feeling brave? Not for long! Frightened turns your fearless paladin into a track star sprinting away from battle. Poison and disease make a cameo too, transforming your stout dwarf into a vomiting mess recalculating HP mid-barf.

Let's not forget Petrified—the ultimate freeze frame. You're now modern art, and your friends are debating whether to pawn you or use you as a coat rack. Finally, Incapacitated leaves you lying on the battlefield contemplating life choices while everyone else actually plays the game.

In short, status conditions are the universe's way of saying, "Don't take yourself too seriously." So next time you're turned into a potted plant, just roll with it—and hope someone has Greater Restoration handy!

Links

• RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
• Status Conditions, Part 1: How to Restrain Your Dragon – RPGBOT.Podcast S2E52
• Articles from RPGBOT.net
• Gloom Stalker Ranger Handbook
• How to Literally Play Dungeons and Dragons
• Oath of Conquest Paladin Handbook
• DnD 5e
• Players Handbook (affiliate link)
• Tasha's Cauldron of Everything (affiliate link)
• Pathfinder 2e
• Core Rulebook (affiliate link)
• Other Stuff
• Call of Cthulhu (affiliate link)
• Mike Mearls
• Neverwinter nights

Links

• RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
• Initiative and Surprise – RPGBOT.Podcast S2E27
• Stealth and Invisibility – RPGBOT.Podcast S2E43
• Articles from RPGBOT.net
• How to Restrain Your Dragon
• DnD 3.x – Sorcerer/Wizard Supremacy Caster Spell List
• DnD 5e
• Players Handbook (affiliate link)
• Pathfinder 2e
• Core Rulebook (affiliate link)
• Pathfinder 1e
• d20PFSRD.com's section on grappling – Look for links in the big yellow box

Support Our Sponsors

• Cantrip Candles
• https://rpgbot.net/candles
• dScryb
• https://dscryb.com/rpgbot

Key Takeaways

Charmed Condition: It makes the target friendly, but doesn't allow full control. In DnD 5e, once the charm wears off, NPCs often become hostile. Players need to be careful when using charm spells as they can backfire socially.

Dominate Person: This spell gives the caster full control over the target's actions. However, DMs are advised to use it sparingly against players to avoid removing their agency and reducing enjoyment.

Frightened Condition: Fear mechanics have evolved. In earlier DnD editions, fear could stack and become more severe. In 5e, it imposes disadvantage on attacks and ability checks, while in Pathfinder 2 (PF2), it introduces a numerical system (Frightened 1, 2, etc.) that decays each turn.

Poison and Disease: 3.x DnD made these effects more severe by causing ability score damage, making it difficult for players to track changes. In 5e, poisons primarily impose disadvantage, and diseases are less impactful, much to the hosts' disappointment. PF2 strikes a balance by introducing afflictions with less need for constant recalculations.

Incapacitated: This condition is particularly devastating in 5e, as it strips away most actions, leaving characters vulnerable. In PF2, mental actions like recalling knowledge can still be performed, even when paralyzed.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

Welcome to The Darkest House—Monte Cook Game's TTRPG where the house isn't just haunted, it's actively plotting your doom! Join us as we dive into cursed tools, doom mechanics, and Philip Harlock's questionable relationship with the most emotionally unstable building ever. Ready for some spooky home improvement tips? Listen if you dare!

Summary

WARNING: SPOILERS! Get ready for the RPGBOT.Podcast's spookiest, creepiest, most definitely-not-cursed episode yet! This time, the hosts bravely enter "The Darkest House" - the TTRPG from Monte Cook Games where the house itself is not just a building, but an actively vengeful character who's probably plotting against you while you're folding laundry. They dive deep into the game's doom mechanics, which will make you question all your life choices, and explore why Philip Harlock's relationship with a haunted house might be just a little too intense.

Spoiler: there's doom, tension, and a mysterious, probably evil, house in desperate need of a good therapist. They also reveal the game's secret to ultimate horror: it's not about jump scares—it's the creeping psychological dread of realizing your character's personal arc is falling apart faster than IKEA furniture. Plus, they cover how you can drag this existential nightmare into your other campaigns! Because, clearly, nothing says "fun Friday night" like being emotionally terrorized by a building with personality issues.

Tune in, if you dare. Or, you know, if you're just looking for DIY home renovation tips... of the haunted variety.

Links

• The Darkest House (affiliate link)

Support Our Sponsors

• Cantrip Candles - https://rpgbot.net/candles
• dScryb - https://dscryb.com/rpgbot

Takeaways

The Darkest House RPG is designed for horror storytelling:

• The house is an entity that actively works against players.
• Players can integrate their existing characters into the game.
• Doom mechanics add a layer of tension and consequence.
• The house's actions are always detrimental to players.
• Character arcs are crucial for narrative depth.
• The game encourages gaslighting and psychological horror.
• The house can consume spaces from other worlds.
• Players may enter the house for various motivations.
• The relationship between Philip Harlock and the house is central to the narrative.
• The Darkest House is a unique horror RPG experience.
• Player autonomy is challenged by entities like the Lurker.
• Mystic Tools are essential for escaping the house.
• Personal arcs are crucial for character development.
• Each entity in the house has a distinct personality and threat level.
• The Gallery contains paintings that can aid or hinder players.
• The story of Philip Harlock serves as a cautionary tale.
• The house itself is a character, influencing player decisions.
• Exploration of the house leads to different experiences each time.
• The horror is atmospheric, focusing on psychological elements.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

PARENTAL ADVISORY - EXPLICIT CONTENT: Prepare to have your brain slurped! This week on the RPGBOT.Podcast, our hosts dive into the mind-blasting world of Mind Flayers! Ever wonder how a brain becomes a tentacle smoothie? Curious about undead Alhoons? Or just need combat tips in case an Elder Brain crashes your next campaign? We've got ALL the answers—plus a few tentacles. Tune in for laughs, lore, and life advice from the terrifying Ill-Sensei (now accepting students!). Buckle up for horror and hilarity—you don't want to miss this one! Listen now before your brain becomes lunch!

Summary

PARENTAL ADVISORY - EXPLICIT CONTENT: In this gut-busting episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, our fearless hosts dive headfirst into the creepy, crawly, brain-slurping world of Mindflayers! Get ready for a wild ride as they unravel the mysteries of Mindflayer reproduction (spoiler: it's grosser than you think), explain how a perfectly good brain turns into an eldritch smoothie via seromorphosis, and discuss the dark joys of becoming an undead Alhoon. If you've ever wanted to know how to survive an Elder Brain attack or how to pronounce Ulitharid without sounding like you're sneezing, this episode has you covered.

Packed with horror, hilarity, and questionable life choices, this episode also digs deep into the Mindflayer hierarchy, the bizarre mentorship of Ill-Sensei (like a life coach, but for tentacle-faced nightmares), and tactical advice for surviving these horrifying brain bandits in your next tabletop campaign. It's a terrifyingly fun exploration of D&D's most iconic, brain-hungry monsters, and trust us—there are no bad ideas, just brain snacks!

Links

• Monsters of the Multiverse (affiliate link)
• Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (affiliate link)
• Spelljammer: Adventures in Space (affiliate link)
• Volo's Guide to Monsters (affiliate link)
• DnD 3.5
• Lords of Madness (affiliate link)
• Futurama
• Why Must I be a Crustacean in Love

Support Our Sponsors

• Cantrip Candles
• https://rpgbot.net/candles
• dScryb
• https://dscryb.com/rpgbot

Episode Takeaways

• Body Horror: Mind Flayers reproduce through a grotesque process involving disturbing body transformations.
• Dual Sex Organs: They are hermaphroditic, having both male and female reproductive organs.
• Painful Transformation: Seromorphosis, the process of turning victims into Mind Flayers, takes about a week and is excruciating.
• Elder Brain Control: Mind Flayer society is ruthlessly controlled by Elder Brains, with no room for dissent.
• Ulitharid Rebels: Ulitharids, powerful Mind Flayers, can challenge the authority of Elder Brains.
• Short Lifespans and Cannibalism: They live only about 100 years, which often leads to cannibalism in their society.
• Absorbed Consciousness: When Mind Flayers die, their consciousness is absorbed by the Elder Brain.
• Mind Flayer Experiments: Strange creatures like Intellect Devourers and Cranium Rats are products of their terrifying experiments.
• Undead Variants: Alhoons are Mind Flayers that become undead through a dark process.
• Hive Mind Awareness: Stealth is nearly impossible against Mind Flayers due to their shared hive mind.
• Fragile but Deadly: Fighting them requires quick action and high intelligence saves because of their physical frailty.
• Elder Brain Command: Elder Brains are the central force controlling Mind Flayer colonies.
• Humor vs. Horror: Despite the terrifying nature of Mind Flayers, their lore is often discussed with dark humor.
• No Worship or Souls: Mind Flayers lack the concept of worship and do not possess souls.
• Central Antagonists: They make excellent primary villains or complex allies in tabletop campaigns.
• Good-Aligned Possibilities: Good-aligned Mind Flayers present unique narrative opportunities.
• Evil Representation: In most lore, Mind Flayers are depicted as inherently evil.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

In this week's remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we're feeling stunned, paralyzed, and maybe just a little charmed! Join us as we dive into the wild world of status conditions in DnD and Pathfinder. From the good ol' days of DnD 3.0 to the modern mechanics that keep you blinded and restrained—we're talking about how these conditions have evolved, what they say about the games we love, and how they can cripple your enemies or... you, if you're not careful! Whether you're a sneaky rogue trying to stun your foes or a DM looking to frighten your players, we've got tips and tricks to help you stay on top of your game. Give it a listen before you're left petrified!

Links

• RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
• Initiative and Surprise – RPGBOT.Podcast S2E27
• Stealth and Invisibility – RPGBOT.Podcast S2E43
• Articles from RPGBOT.net
• How to Restrain Your Dragon
• DnD 3.x – Sorcerer/Wizard Supremacy Caster Spell List
• DnD 5e
• Players Handbook (affiliate link)
• Pathfinder 2e
• Core Rulebook (affiliate link)
• Pathfinder 1e
• d20PFSRD.com's section on grappling – Look for links in the big yellow box

Support Our Sponsors

• Cantrip Candles
• https://rpgbot.net/candles
• dScryb
• https://dscryb.com/rpgbot

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati

Spooktober alert! Ready to dive into the brain-slurping, tentacle-waving world of mindflayers?! In the latest episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we explore the charm of Illithids and their Elder Brain overlords (they're like the worst bosses ever) Thralls? Check. Brain buffets? Check. Cooking tips for keeping your creepy squid colony fed? You betcha! Oh, and we might've figured out how to turn Miss Frizzle into your next D&D character... because why not? Tune in if you dare! But, um, watch your head...

Summary

Get ready for Spooktober with the RPGBOT.Podcast as the gang dives into the tentacled depths of mindflayers, D&D's creepiest brain munchers. This episode is a buffet of hilarious and insightful takes on everything from the origins of the Illithid Empire to their Elder Brain overlords and weird thrall-based society.

But it's not all gloom and doom! The hosts bring their signature humor, even when discussing the highbrow topic of mindflayer cuisine (spoiler: brains are on the menu). They also tackle the real challenge of keeping a mindflayer colony fed—it's tough out there for a brain-eating squid-monster! Plus, if you've ever wondered how to channel your inner Miss Frizzle from The Magic School Bus into your next D&D character, they've got you covered.

So grab your thinking caps (but watch out for mind flayers) and tune in for an episode that's as spooky as it is side-splitting!

Links

• DnD 5e
• 2014 Monster Manual (affiliate link)
• Monsters of the Multiverse (affiliate link)
• Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (affiliate link)
• Spelljammer: Adventures in Space (affiliate link)
• Volo's Guide to Monsters (affiliate link)
• DnD 3.5
• Lords of Madness (affiliate link)
• Futurama
• Why Must I be a Crustacean in Love

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Key Takeaways

• Mindflayers in D&D: Mindflayers are a staple of D&D horror lore, blending dark themes with a sense of unease and intrigue.
• The Illithid Empire's Legacy: The Illithid Empire boasts a rich and complex history, integral to the lore of mind flayers.
• Elder Brain Authority: Elder Brains are central to mind flayer society, serving as both leaders and key figures in their colonies.
• Colony Structure: Mindflayer colonies are organized around the Elder Brain, with a hierarchical system centered on its influence.
• Role of Thralls: Thralls play a crucial role in the daily operations and control within mind flayer societies.
• Conquest Ambitions: Mindflayers are driven by a desire to dominate the multiverse once more, seeking to reclaim their former glory.
• Disturbing Powers: The nature of mindflayer power, from psychic abilities to mind control, is deeply unsettling.
• Knowledge & Power: Mindflayers have a unique approach to both knowledge and power, driven by their insatiable hunger for control.
• Humor in Darkness: Humor can provide an enlightening contrast when discussing dark themes like mind flayers and their eerie traits.
• Preconceptions about Food: Many people hold preconceived notions about food preparation, which can be subverted in unusual contexts.
• Cooking Perceptions: The way food is cooked greatly impacts how it's perceived, even when discussing bizarre diets.
• Mind Flayer Diet: Mindflayers have a unique diet that consists mainly of brains and internal organs, adding to their horrifying image.
• Food Supply Challenges: Sourcing enough food to sustain a mind flayer colony is a major challenge, considering their unusual dietary needs.
• Population Dynamics: The population dynamics of mind flayers, from thralls to colony expansion, require careful planning and control.
• Cultural Perspectives: Shifting cultural views can alter our understanding and perception of creatures like mind flayers.
• Reproduction Complexity: The reproduction process for mind flayers is complex and deserves further exploration within their lore.
• Miss Frizzle in D&D: Miss Frizzle can be interpreted in fun and creative ways in D&D character creation, adding a quirky element.
• Humor & Depth: The podcast hosts enjoy blending humor with serious topics, making complex lore more accessible and engaging.
• Pop Culture in D&D: Engaging with pop culture characters like Miss Frizzle can enhance the D&D experience, bringing in new dimensions of creativity.

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How to Find Us:

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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