RPGBOT.Podcast

Are you tired of players constantly metagaming and ruining the suspense in your tabletop role-playing games? Look no further, because in this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we delve into the world of secret rolls and how they can add a new level of excitement and uncertainty to your game. Whether you're a Pathfinder 2 or Dungeons & Dragons 5e player, we've got you covered with tips and tricks on how to effectively use secret rolls in your game. So buckle up, and get ready to take your campaign to the next level with the power of secret rolls.

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss the use of secret rolls in tabletop role-playing games. We explore the mechanics of secret rolls in Pathfinder 2 and the lack of explicit rules for secret rolls in Dungeons & Dragons 5e. We highlight the benefits of secret rolls in preventing metagaming and creating suspense and uncertainty for players. We also provide practical advice for DMs on how to handle secret rolls, including paraphrasing information and lying when necessary. We discuss the use of secret rolls in knowledge checks and the potential for critical success and failure to reveal the outcome of the roll.

Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of secret rolls in enhancing gameplay and creating a more immersive experience. In this conversation, Tyler, Ash, and Randall discuss the use of secret rolls in tabletop role-playing games, specifically focusing on Pathfinder 2e and Dungeons & Dragons 5e. They explore the benefits and drawbacks of secret rolls in different aspects of the game, including knowledge checks, hide and sneak actions, and social interactions. They also provide tips for building a homebrew campaign, including using random tables for inspiration and creating encounters with multiple monsters, interesting terrain, and complications. Overall, they emphasize the flexibility and creativity that secret rolls can bring to the game.

Links

• Cantrip Candles (Affiliate Link)

DnD 3.5 via d20srd.org

• Sense Motive

DnD 5e via DnDBeyond

• Deception
• Insight

PF2 via Archives of Nethys

• "Secret" tag

Previous Episodes

• 5-Room Dungeon

RPGBOT.net

• Encounter Builder

Other Stuff

• Asgard's Random World Generator
• Kobold Fight Club
• Wattaboo.itch.io

Takeaways

• Secret rolls can prevent metagaming and create suspense and uncertainty for players.
• Paraphrasing information and lying when necessary can help DMs handle secret rolls effectively.
• Critical success and failure in knowledge checks can reveal additional information or lead to misinformation.
• Allowing players to metagame a little when they critically succeed can enhance the gaming experience.
• Secret rolls can enhance gameplay and create a more immersive experience. Secret rolls can add excitement and unpredictability to tabletop role-playing games
• Using secret rolls for knowledge checks can prevent metagaming and enhance the role-playing experience
• In hide and sneak actions, secret rolls can create tension and surprise for both players and GMs
• Social interactions can benefit from secret rolls, allowing players to make more nuanced decisions and adding an element of mystery
• When building a homebrew campaign, start with a setting or theme and gradually expand from there
• Encounters should include multiple monsters, interesting terrain, and complications to make them more engaging and challenging

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 episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we delve into the intricacies of one of the most fascinating planes in the D&D cosmology: Mechanus. Known for its absolute order and interlocking gears the size of small countries, Mechanus is a plane like no other. Join us as we explore the various features and inhabitants of this highly structured and symmetrical world. From the Modron bureaucracy to the optional rules, get ready for a deep dive into the intricacies of Mechanus. Grab your dice and join us as we take a journey into the heart of this incredible plane.

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, We break down the Plane of Mechanus in the D&D cosmology. We describe Mechanus as a plane of absolute order, with interlocking gears the size of small countries. We talk about the Modrons, creatures that inhabit Mechanus and are known for their bureaucratic and orderly nature. Two optional rules for Mechanus: the Law of Averages, where creatures always use the average damage result for attacks and spells, and Imposing Order, where visitors must make a Wisdom saving throw at the end of a long rest to avoid changing their alignment to lawful neutral.

We also delve into the hierarchy of Modrons, the native inhabitants of Mechanus, and their roles and functions within the plane. We share tidbits about Modrons, such as their limited communication abilities and the constant replacement of Modrons in the hierarchy upon death. We touch on the challenges of finding stat blocks for higher-ranking Modrons. We discuss various aspects of Mechanus, the plane of law and order in the Dungeons & Dragons multiverse. We cover topics such as the ruling modron hierarchy of Mechanus, Asmodeus's Ruby Rod, the Formians, the Gate Town of Automata, and the Great Modron March. We also mention the Hall of Concordance in Sigil.

Takeaways

• Mechanus is a plane of absolute order with interlocking gears the size of small countries
• The gears are habitable on both sides and everything is perfectly balanced and symmetrical
• Mechanus connects to three other planes: Acheron, Arcadia, and Sigil
• Modrons, creatures that inhabit Mechanus, are known for their bureaucratic and orderly nature
• Two optional rules for Mechanus: Law of Averages and Imposing Order Pathfinder has a plane dedicated to law called Axis, which falls between Mechanus and Sigil.
• Modrons are the only native inhabitants of Mechanus and exist in an absolute hierarchy based on the number of sides they have.
• Modrons have limited communication abilities and can only communicate with Modrons one step above or below them in the hierarchy.
• When a Modron dies, they are immediately replaced in the hierarchy, and Primus creates new Monodrones to maintain a stable number of Modrons in the multiverse.
• Finding stat blocks for higher-ranking Modrons can be challenging, and previous editions may provide more information. Mechanus is the plane of law and order in the D&D multiverse
• The Modrons are the ruling hierarchy of Mechanus
• The Ruby Rod is a powerful artifact that controls the Slodds
• The Slodds are chaotic creatures that seek to break free from Mechanus
• The Formians are ant-like creatures that have invaded Mechanus
• Automata is a Gate Town in Mechanus known for its bureaucratic and orderly nature
• The Great Modron March is a mysterious event that occurs every 289 years
• The Hall of Concordance in Axis is a place where contracts are signed and enforced
• Mechanus is a fascinating and complex plane with many unique features and creatures

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 remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss initiative and surprise mechanics in TTRPGs. We examine how initiative and surprise work in DnD 5e and how people are using it wrong, we compare 5e to other RPGs including Pathfinder 2e and The One Ring, and we explore some variant initiative options which you might use in your own games.

This episode was originally published April 6, 2022

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

• RPGBOT.News – Caleb Valorozo-Jones on Neurodiversity in TTRPGs
• RPGBOT.Podcast Season 2 Episode 1 – Variant Rules

Dungeons and Dragons 5e

• Player's Handbook (affiliate link)
• Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link)

Pathfinder 2e

• Core Rulebook (affiliate link)
• Gamemastery Guide (affiliate link)

Other Stuff

• Alien RPG
• Easy Roller Dice's Hollow Metal Dice (affiliate link)
• Fantasy Flight Star Wars (affiliate link)
• Mörk Borg
• The One Ring 2e

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 back to part 2 of our Wizards optimization discussion with the one and only Treantmonk! In the previous episode, we delved into the world of D&D 5e Wizards and explored their potential at lower levels. Now, we continue our journey and tackle the exciting realm of mid to high levels. Brace yourselves, as we discuss powerful spell choices, gameplay strategies, and the fierce competition for spells among our characters. Grab your spellbooks and let's dive in!

Summary

In part 2 of our Wizard optimization discussion with Treantmonk, we continue optimizing our Wizards. We continue from level 7 and discuss our spell choices and subclass features. The gameplay of each character is described, with Ash focusing on confusion and illusion, Randall using magic missile as a machine gun, Chris restraining and damaging enemies, and Tyler causing mischief from a distance. We also discuss the importance of spell selection and the competition for spells as wizards progress to higher levels. We're excited about the powerful spells we have access to and the creative ways in which we can use them.

We discuss the importance of optimizing our characters and the fun of collecting and using a wide variety of spells. We talk about our choices for Spell Mastery feature at level 18. We briefly discuss their choices for second-level spells, with Chris taking Tasha's Mind Whip and Vortex Warp, Ash choosing Phantasmal Force and Mirror Image, and Randall debating between Web and Shatter. We debate the usefulness of the Wish spell and the potential problems it can cause at the table. In the final part of our conversation, we discuss our choices for signature spells at level 20.

Takeaways

• Choosing the right spells is crucial for optimizing a Wizard character in D&D 5e.
• Each player has a unique play style and strategy based on their chosen subclass and spell selection.
• Higher-level spells offer more powerful and versatile options for combat and utility.
• Competition for spells in our spell draft increases as characters progress to higher levels.
• Understanding the mechanics and synergies of spells can lead to creative and effective gameplay.
• They express excitement about the powerful spells they have access to and the creative ways they can use them.
• The hosts discuss the importance of optimizing their characters and the fun of collecting and using a wide variety of spells.
• They also discuss high-level subclass features and the unique abilities they provide.
• They debate the pros and cons of the Wish spell, acknowledging its power but also the potential problems it can cause at the table.
• The hosts make their selections for the Spell Mastery feature at level 18, with each host choosing spells that complement their playstyle.
• They also briefly discuss their choices for second-level spells, considering their usefulness and synergy with their overall spell selection.
• At level 20, characters can choose two third-level spells to be their signature spells, which they can cast once per day without expending a spell slot.
• The hosts have fun joking around and making light of their choices for signature spells.
• The conversation highlights the camaraderie and enjoyment that can come from playing high-level wizards in Dungeons & Dragons.
• The hosts also discuss the challenges and limitations of certain spells at higher levels.

Materials Referenced in This Episode

• Treantmonk (Chris Honkala)

• Youtube

• Twitter

• Patreon

• Wizard Handbook

• Wizard Subclasses Breakdown

• Wizard Spell List Breakdown

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 ultimate guide to optimizing your wizard in Dungeons & Dragons 5e! Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, our guest Chris Honkala (Treantmonk) joins us to share expert tips and strategies for creating a powerful and effective wizard. From race and ability scores to spellcasting and subclasses, we'll cover everything you need to know to make the most out of your wizard character. So grab your spellbook and get ready to become the ultimate arcane master!

Summary

In this episode, Chris Honkala (Treantmonk) joins Tyler, Ash, and Randall to discuss optimizing wizards in Dungeons & Dragons 5e. They cover various topics such as race and ability scores, proficiencies, spellcasting, and subclasses. We share opinions on different subclasses and our favorite spells. We also discuss the Wizard's low-level features and their usefulness. We provide insights and tips for players looking to optimize their wizard characters.

We also discuss our opinions on different wizard subclasses in Dungeons and Dragons, covering every official suclass, and offering a polite nod to the Critical Role subclasses. We share thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of each subclass and our personal preferences. We also discuss the features and abilities they gain at different levels, such as improved minor illusion and arcane deflection. We talk about the mechanics of copying spells into spellbooks and the importance of initiative for wizards.

In this episode, we draft our spells, each picking just two per spell level in random order. Forced to compete for our favorites, we make some interesting choices to grab the best spells we can at each spell level from 2nd through 4th. We also look at our various subclass features and how they work with our spell choices.

Takeaways

• Wizards are full spellcasters and their spellcasting feature is their main focus.
• The Arcane Recovery feature allows wizards to recover spell slots during a short rest.
• Different subclasses offer unique abilities and playstyles for wizards.
• Choosing the right spells is crucial for optimizing a wizard character.
• Consider race and ability scores to maximize the effectiveness of a wizard.
• The hosts discuss their opinions on different wizard subclasses in Dungeons and Dragons, sharing their thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of each subclass
• They discuss the mechanics of copying spells into spellbooks and the importance of initiative for wizards
• Spell choices should be based on personal playstyle and the needs of the party.
• Listeners can find the guest, Chris, on his YouTube channel, TreatMonk's Temple.

Materials Referenced in This Episode

• Treantmonk (Chris Honkala)

• Youtube

• Twitter

• Patreon

• Wizard Handbook

• Wizard Subclasses Breakdown

• Wizard Spell List Breakdown

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 remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we explore creating your character's backstory. Creating a compelling character is an essential part of playing Dungeons and Dragons (D&D). While the game may be full of dragons, magic, and epic battles, it's the characters that bring the story to life. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, here are some tips and tricks for bringing your adventurer to life and making them a memorable part of your D&D experience.

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 part two of our comprehensive guide to optimizing your Barbarian character in D&D! In our previous episode, we covered the basics of the class and its features at low levels. Now, we delve into the more advanced features and abilities gained by the Barbarian as they level up. Get ready to unleash your inner savage and learn how to maximize your Barbarian's potential!

Summary

In our second part of our guide to optimizing Barbarians, we talk about the features and abilities gained by the Barbarian class at levels 5 to 20. We explore the unique paths of Ancestral Guardian, Giant, and Wild Magic subclasses and their unique features. We also cover the Barbarian's optional class feature, such as Instinctive Pounce, as well as different ability score improvements and feats.

In the final part of the conversation, we talk about the level 15-20 features of the Barbarian class. We highlight the improvements and new abilities gained at each level, such as increased Brutal Critical damage, additional resistances, and unlimited rages. We also discuss the limitations and drawbacks of certain features. We share our thoughts on playing a high-level Barbarian and express excitement for the upcoming episode on the Wizard class.

Takeaways

• The Extra Attack feature at level 5 doubles the Barbarian's damage output
• The Path of the Wild Magic and Path of the Ancestral Guardian subclasses offer unique abilities and playstyles
• The Elemental Cleaver feature allows the Path of the Giant Barbarian to infuse their weapon with primordial energy, dealing extra damage of a chosen type
• The Spirit Shield ability allows the Barbarian to reduce damage taken by an ally within 30 feet
• The Instinctive Pounce feature allows the Barbarian to move half their speed when they rage
• The Feral Instinct feature gives the Barbarian advantage on initiative rolls
• The Brutal Critical feature has limitations and may not be as impactful as expected.
• The Relentless Rage feature can be a lifesaver in combat.
• The Polearm Master feat can provide additional reach and combat options.
• Features like increased damage, additional resistances, and unlimited rages enhance the Barbarian's combat capabilities.
• Certain features have limitations and drawbacks, such as limited scaling and situational usefulness.
• Playing a high-level Barbarian can be fun and rewarding, especially with optimized strategies and creative character concepts.
• The hosts express excitement for the next episode on the Wizard class.

• Content from RPGBOT.net
  • Barbarian Handbook
  • Barbarian Races Breakdown
  • Barbarian Subclass Breakdown
• Other Stuff
  • Johnn Four: The 5-Room Dungeon
  • Zangief

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

Unleash your inner primal warrior with our guide to optimizing the Barbarian class! From race and ability scores to managing rage and exploring different flavors of this ferocious class, we'll help you create the ultimate Barbarian for your next campaign. Don't settle for a one-dimensional brute – unlock the full potential of this versatile class with our expert tips and strategies.

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we optimize Barbarians. We explore the race, ability scores, skills, and features of the Barbarian class. We touch on the limitations of rage and the importance of managing rage uses. We emphasize the importance of considering different flavors and interpretations of rage to make the Barbarian class more interesting and diverse.

We also discuss the role of Barbarians in combat and their limited utility outside of combat. We review the different subclasses of the Barbarian class in Dungeons & Dragons, provide our opinions on each subclass, and highlight their strengths and weaknesses. We discuss the subclasses which we've have chosen for our example barbarians. Ash chooses the Path of the Giant, which allows him to become a fairy giant barbarian with increased reach and size. Tyler chooses the Ancestral Guardian subclass, which grants him the ability to protect his allies by taunting enemies and reducing damage to them. Randall chooses the Path of Wild Magic, which gives him the ability to roll on a table and gain beneficial effects whenever he enters a rage. We also share some of their favorite memories from D&D and Pathfinder games.

Takeaways

• Barbarians are primarily focused on strength and constitution, with a splash of other abilities depending on the desired character build.
• Rage is the central feature of the Barbarian class, providing resistance to certain types of damage and a damage bonus on strength-based melee attacks.
• Managing rage uses is crucial, as Barbarians have a limited number of rages per day.
• Flavor and interpretation of rage can vary, allowing for different character concepts and playstyles.
• Barbarians excel in combat but may have limited utility outside of combat.
• Consider the adventuring day structure and the limitations of rage when playing a Barbarian.
• The Bear Totem subclass of the Totem Warrior is a popular choice for its survivability.
• The Ancestral Guardian subclass is powerful but can be boring to play.
• The Berserker subclass is considered the worst subclass due to the exhaustion mechanic.
• The Path of the Beast subclass is fun and offers a Lycanthrope-like experience.
• The Path of the Juggernaut subclass is compared to the Home Run Bat from Super Smash Bros.
• The hosts discuss the importance of setting expectations and discussing subclass choices during session zero.
• The hosts discuss the subclasses they have chosen for their barbarian characters. Ash chooses the Path of the Giant, Tyler chooses the Ancestral Guardian subclass, and Randall chooses the Path of Wild Magic
• They share some of their favorite memories from D&D and Pathfinder games

• Content from RPGBOT.net
  • Barbarian Handbook
  • Barbarian Races Breakdown
  • Barbarian Subclass Breakdown
• Other Stuff
  • Johnn Four: The 5-Room Dungeon
  • Zangief

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

Are you looking to add some brain-teasing challenges to your Tabletop RPG sessions? Look no further! In this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we explore the world of puzzles in tabletop RPGs. From tips on how to run them effectively to utilizing character abilities, we have you covered. Plus, we'll take a trip through history to uncover some inventive puzzle ideas for your game. Get ready to level up your tabletop experience with these thrilling and strategic puzzles!

This episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast was originally published March 22, 2022.

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

• RPGBOT.Podcast Episode 4 – Failure, with special guest Colby of the Crit Fails Podcast

Dungeons and Dragons 5e

• Player's Handbook (affiliate link)
• Tales from the Yawning Portal (affiliate link)
• Tasha's Cauldron of Everything (affiliate link)

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 second half of our breakdown of Druids, we dig into the exciting world of druid spells and abilities at 5th level and above. We take a look at the higher-level abilities and playstyle of a druid, including their powerful Wild Shape and spellcasting abilities. Get ready for an insightful and in-depth exploration of the Druid class in this episode. Let's dive in!

• Druid Handbook
• Druid Races Breakdown
• Druid Subclass Breakdown
• Druid Spells Breakdown
• RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes
  • Wild Shape

Takeaways

• Druids gain powerful spells like Call Lightning and Conjure Animals at 5th level.
• Summoning spells can be used creatively to overwhelm enemies or control the battlefield.
• Some spells, like Sleet Storm, may have limitations or drawbacks that make them less effective.
• The Cosmic Omen subclass feature grants druids special reactions based on dice rolls, providing additional utility in combat. Druids gain access to powerful area control spells at higher levels.
• The Circle of Stars subclass allows druids to transform into celestial forms and gain additional benefits.
• Druids can increase their ability scores or choose a feat at level 12.
• Seventh-level spells grant druids even more powerful abilities, such as Firestorm and Plane Shift.
• At level 14, druids receive their final subclass feature, such as the ability to cast Alter Self at will. The Druid class gains powerful abilities and features at higher levels, including the ability to shapechange into powerful creatures and cast spells while in Wild Shape.
• At level 20, Druids become nearly unkillable with the Archdruid feature, allowing them to use Wild Shape an unlimited number of times.
• Druids have a wide range of spells at their disposal, including powerful area-of-effect spells like Earthquake and Tsunami.
• The versatility of the Druid class allows for a variety of playstyles, from being a frontline tank to a spellcasting support character.
• The Druid class offers unique opportunities for epic storytelling and gameplay, with the ability to commune with nature and shapechange into powerful creatures.