RPGBOT.Podcast

In this first of a two-part episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss the Monk Class in Dungeons & Dragons, acknowledging the cultural issues with the class and the challenges it faces in terms of mechanics and gameplay. We explore ability scores, proficiencies, and features while highlighting Monks reliance on Dexterity, Wisdom, and Constitution. We talk about the Monk's unarmored defense, martial arts abilities, and the limitations of available weapons. The team expresses their opinions on the class and offer insights into the class' strengths and weaknesses, breaking down the different subclasses and their features. We cover the Ascendant Dragon, Open Hand, Shadow, Drunken Master, Four Elements, Long Death, Mercy, and Cobalt Soul subclasses and we dig into our frustrations with some design decisions for the Monk class.

We'll provide insights into the various options available for Monks and offer recommendations for players, covering various features and abilities of the Monk, including Flurry of Blows, Stunning Strike, and Slow Fall; with our thoughts on the effectiveness and balance of these features. We provide insights and suggestions for optimizing the Monk class, such as multiclassing and choosing the right subclass, and discuss the importance of ability score improvements and the impact of race on the Monk's abilities.

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 swirling vortex of chaos, the endless expanse of malevolent intent, the Abyss beckons with its promise of boundless power and insidious pleasures. In this post, we delve into the twisted depths of the Abyss, home to the demonic hordes that threaten to consume all that stands in their way. Join us as we explore the unfathomable layers of this chaotic universe and uncover its secrets, dangers, and enticing rewards. Welcome to the Abyss, where madness and malevolence reign supreme.

• DnD 5e
• Dungeon Master's Guide
• Monsters of the Multiverse
• 3.5 Expedition to the Demonweb Pits (affiliate link)
• Pathfinder Wiki
• Demon Lords
• Qlippoth
• Outer Rifts

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 discuss variant rules. We examine the difference between house rules and variants, and review a collection of our favorite variant rules for DnD 5e and for Pathfinder 2e and debate which ones you should or should not use and why.

This episode was originally release January 5th, 2022

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

• Articles on RPGBOT.net
• The Fundamental Math of Character Optimization
• Oops All Elves
• The Monsterizer
• DnD 5e
• Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link)
• Chapter 8 under Adjudicating Area Effects
• Chapter 9 under Resting and under Combat Options
• Pathfinder 2e:
• Gamemastery Guide
• Chapter 4
• https://2e.aonprd.com/Rules.aspx?ID=1297
• Other Stuff
• DnDBeyond Campaign Level Spread Chart – Taken from a video in 2019, so may be outdated

You can find more information at https://rpgbot.net/ - Analysis, tools, and instructional articles for tabletop RPGs.

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 ready to take your warlock to new heights? In this second of our two-part episode of the RPGBOT. Podcast, we guide through the levels, and the power and potential of the Warlock class truly begins to unfold. Join us as we dig into the exciting world of levels 5-20 for warlocks. From choosing new spells to mastering invocations, we will explore the many ways you can unlock the full potential of your Warlock.

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THE EPISODE

• Warlock Handbook
• Warlock Races Breakdown
• Warlock Eldritch Invocations Breakdown
• Warlock Pact Boons Breakdown
• Warlock 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 special episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, Wizards of the Coast Lead Designer Amanda Hamon joins the team to discuss the latest Dungeons and Dragons release, Vecna, Eve of Ruin. We talk about the history of Vecna in D&D, his motivations, and how he fits into the 50th anniversary celebration of D&D. We also discuss the inclusion of Greyhawk and other classic settings in the adventure, as well as the return of iconic characters like Mordenkainen and Elminster.

Amanda provides insight into the development and excitement surrounding this major adventure release. Amanda also share with us the inclusion of lesser-known characters like Strahd, Lord Soth, and Miska the Wolf Spider. The conversation then shifts to the challenges of designing a high-level adventure and the importance of creating a simple yet engaging narrative. The hosts also ask about new monsters and magic items in the book. In this final part of the conversation, the hosts and guest discuss the use of a magic item called the Head of Vecna, which can banish powerful creatures to other planes of existence. They also give advice to players who are new to high-level play. Stay tuned until the end for the free-flowing conversation with Amanda.

• Vecna: Eve of Ruin
• Amanda Hamon
• Twitter: @amandahamon
• Pathfinder Wiki
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amanda_Hamon_Kunz
• Other Stuff
• Rod of Seven Parts

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 tired of travel feeling like a mundane chore in your RPG sessions? Look no further, because in this episode we will explore the art of making travel an exciting and essential part of your game. Learn from the successes and failures of popular fiction and discover techniques to make your players engaged and invested in the journey. Say goodbye to boring travel and hello to epic adventures!

Special thanks to for this week's questions of the week.

This episode was originally published on December 22, 2021

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

• RPGBOT.Podcast episodes referenced in this episode
• Episode 0 – The Adventure Begins
• Episode 15 – Food
• Articles on RPGBOT.net
• DnD 5e – Oath of Conquest Paladin Handbook
• DnD 5e – The Fundamental Math of Character Optimization
• DnD 5e
• Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link)
• Chapter 9, under "Creating a Monster"
• Player's Handbook (affiliate link)
• Chapter 8, under "Movement"
• Pathfinder 2e:
• Core Rulebook (affiliate link)
• Page 479: Travel Speed
• https://2e.aonprd.com/Rules.aspx?ID=470
• Other Stuff
• Dijkstra's Algorithm
• Eurotrip
• XKCD: Unpopular Opinions
• Left for Dead 2
• Lord of the Rings
• Mulan 2 – Escort Mission Boogaloo
• Oregon Trail
• Oregon Trail Card Game (affiliate link)
• Red Hand of Doom (affiliate link)
• Skyrim, available now on your smart fridge or whatever
• The Mandalorian – Chapter 10: The Passenger
• Wheel of Time (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 episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss the help action in tabletop role-playing games, specifically in Dungeons & Dragons 5e and Pathfinder 2e. We explore the mechanics of the help action, including its use in combat and out of combat scenarios. We also discuss the limitations and potential benefits of using the help action, as well as different character options that can enhance its effectiveness. This highlights the importance of understanding the rules and clarifying any misconceptions to ensure a fair and balanced gameplay experience.

We also discuss the rules and mechanics of the Aid action in both D&D 5e and Pathfinder 2e, exploring the differences in how the action is handled in each system, including the requirements, benefits, and limitations. We include character options that make taking the Aid action more attractive, such as the Mastermind Rogue subclass in 5e and the Cooperative Nature and Loyal Empath feats in Pathfinder 2e. Overall, highlighting the importance and usefulness of the Aid action in both systems.

In the final part of the episode we talk about the cooperative nature of aid checks in Pathfinder Second Edition, and the idea of adjusting the DC for aid checks based on the difficulty of the task and the level of training of the character being aided; and how aid checks can be used in combat to create openings for attacks or to identify weaknesses in enemies. The team share their personal experiences with aid checks and offer different perspectives on when and how to adjust the DC; overall, emphasizing the importance of aid checks in the game and encouraging players to use them more often.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The help action in tabletop role-playing games allows a character to assist another character, granting advantage on ability checks or attacks
• The help action is commonly used in combat to provide advantage on attack rolls, especially with familiars or characters with specific abilities
• In out of combat scenarios, the use of the help action depends on the DM's ruling and the specific skill being assisted
• Understanding the rules and clarifying any misconceptions about the help action is important to ensure a fair and balanced gameplay experience
• Different character options, such as feats or class abilities, can enhance the effectiveness of the help action. The Aid action in D&D 5e and Pathfinder 2e has different rules and mechanics
• In D&D 5e, the Aid action requires using an action and the DM determines if the aid is successful
• In Pathfinder 2e, the Aid action requires preparation, being in a proper position, and conveying necessary information
• The Aid action in Pathfinder 2e has degrees of success, with higher levels increasing the chance of critical success
• Character options like the Mastermind Rogue subclass in 5e and the Cooperative Nature and Loyal Empath feats in Pathfinder 2e make taking the Aid action more attractive
• The Aid action can be a powerful tool for assisting allies and improving the chances of success in both systems. Aid checks in Pathfinder Second Edition are a cooperative mechanic that allows characters to assist each other in various tasks.
• The DC for aid checks can be adjusted based on the difficulty of the task and the level of training of the character being aided
• Aid checks can be used in combat to create openings for attacks or to identify weaknesses in enemies
• The hosts share their personal experiences with aid checks and offer different perspectives on when and how to adjust the DC
• Aid checks are an important and versatile mechanic that players should utilize more often in the game

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

• DnDBeyond: Help
• Archives of Nethys: Aid
• https://2e.aonprd.com/Actions.aspx?ID=2292

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 first of our two-part episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we build Warlocks. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the world of RPGs, Warlocks are a fascinating and powerful character class that can bring a unique dynamic to any game. In this post, we'll dive into the history and lore of Warlocks, their abilities and spells, and how you can create a memorable Warlock character for your next campaign. So grab your spellbook and join us as we explore the world of Warlocks in tabletop RPGs!

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THE EPISODE

• Warlock Handbook
• Warlock Races Breakdown
• Warlock Eldritch Invocations Breakdown
• Warlock Pact Boons Breakdown
• Warlock 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 episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss a topic that many of us are familiar with: lifestyle changes. But have you ever stopped to consider how these changes can drastically transform your Pathfinder 2e or D&D 5e RPG campaigns? From going from rags to riches, or from luxury to survival, our characters' lifestyles can have a profound impact on the stories we tell and the experiences we have in our role-playing games. So grab your dice and join us as we explore the power of lifestyle changes in RPGs, how they work, what they mean, and how you can use them as a storytelling device; and how they can take your campaigns from squalor to splendor.

Special thanks to @F_Capomax and @KevinLowman60 for this week's questions of the week.

This episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast was originally published December 8th, 2021

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

• RPGBOT.Podcast episodes referenced in this episode
• Episode 10 – Horror
• Episode 15 – Food
• Articles on RPGBOT.net
• DnD 5e – Practical Guide to Campaign Planning
• The Quartermancer
• The section of RPGBOT.net about Pokemon
• DnD 5e
• Acquisitions Incorporated (affiliate link)
• Player's Handbook (affiliate link)
• Dungeon Master's Guide (affiliate link)
• Ghost of Saltmarsh (affiliate link)
• Out of the Abyss (affiliate link)
• Xanathar's Guide to Everything (affiliate link)
• Pathfinder 2e:
• Core Rulebook (affiliate link)
• Downtime Rules on pages 294 and 500
• https://2e.aonprd.com/Rules.aspx?ID=181
• https://2e.aonprd.com/Rules.aspx?ID=538
• Other Stuff
• Dungeon Master's Guide II (DnD 3.5) (affiliate link)
• Forbidden Lands (affiliate link)
• Magmar (The pokemon)
• Magnamar (The city)
• Red Hand of Doom
• The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss (affiliate link)
• Way of the Wicked (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 two-part episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we build upon the Artificers we created in Part 1. Artificers are a class that has long captured the imaginations of tabletop roleplaying game enthusiasts. With their mastery of technology and their ability to create powerful magical items, artificers bring a unique and exciting element to any RPG campaign. The team dives into the world of artificers in tabletop roleplaying games, exploring their origins, their abilities, and how they can enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the world of RPGs, learn all about this fascinating class and how they can add a new level of creativity and adventure to your tabletop adventures. So grab your dice, sharpen your pencils, and let's dive into the world of artificers!

MATERIALS REFERENCE IN THIS EPISODE

• Artificer Handbook
• Artificer Infusions Breakdown
• Artificer Races Breakdown
• Artificer Subclasses Breakdown
• Eberron: Rising from the Last War (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