RPG XRAY

This episode’s topic is randomness. Chance is a core part of nearly all roleplaying games, but why is it fun? Can you have a valuable RPG without it? Does randomness increase or decrease the quality of stories at the table? Join us as we find out on RPGXray.HOSTS:Ethan Schoonover Jason Beaumont Erik SaltwellAPPENDIX X:Co-Intelligence (Book, Erik) Solium Infernum (, Erik) 1491 (Bo

This episode’s topic is classes. Wizard, thief, fighter, rogue! We all know the tropes of classic fantasy RPGs but how have these evolved over time? What is the benefit of a class and how do classless RPG systems compare to a more traditional approach? What happens when you unbundle skills and abilities from the bounds of a class model?HOSTS:Erik SaltwellBrendan PowerEthan Schoon

In this episode of RPG Ex-Ray, hosts Brendan Power, Jason Beaumont, and Erik Saltwell dive deep into the art and science of railroading in tabletop role-playing games.Our main discussion in the episode is railroading—when and how it's appropriate, the balance between player agency and narrative structure, and how to avoid the pitfalls that can make players feel their choices are

This episode’s topic is props. From maps to sound effects, miniatures to background music, props evoke tone, immerse players, and clarify what is going on in your game’s fiction. Join us as we discuss what makes props work, and when they fail.HOSTS:Erik Saltwell Ethan Schoonover Jason BeaumontAPPENDIX X:Godzilla Movies (Film, Jason) Alan Wake 2 (Video Game, Brendan) The Expanse

This episode’s topic is Creative Agendas. Whether we aspire to overcome challenges, embody characters, or simply socialize with friends, our high-level goals determine many of our choices and define what we are proud about in our roleplaying sessions.HOSTS:Erik SaltwellBrendan PowerEthan SchoonoverAPPENDIX X:Marvel's What If (TV, Erik) The Guns of August (Book, Ethan) Routledge A

This episode’s topic is Rulings. The use of at-the-table decision making is one of the defining features of tabletop roleplaying games that allows for unlimited player creativity. Relying on other humans, though, can leave your table open to bad behavior and interpersonal conflict. Join us as we discuss the differences between rules and rulings in RPGHOSTS:Erik SaltwellEthan Scho

This episode’s topic is Licensed IP, which provides RPG gamers the promise of being a hero in stories they already love, while utilizing their knowledge of a property’s setting and tropes to improve the tabletop role playing experience. Join us, to learn how licensed IP can enhance, or break, your gameplay.HOSTS:Erik SaltwellEthan SchoonoverBrendan PowerAPPENDIX X:A Murder at t

This episode’s topic is Authorities. Who can say what, and when can they say it, in an RPG? Authorities determine this, and have, since the foundation of tabletop role playing.Small changes to the authorities in your game can have huge, sometimes unexpected impact on the gameplay experience.HOSTS:Erik SaltwellEthan SchoonoverJason BeaumontAPPENDIX X:City of Darkness: Life in Kowl

This episode’s topic is Systems. Unlike video games, role playing games separate game engine, game concept and game level into distinct pieces. We dig into the various ways that RPGs split authority for the design of each piece between designers, game masters and players. What effect do these choices have on the experience of the game, and how can you use them to foster great pla

This episode’s topic is PROGRESSION. Whether it’s levels, experience points, that scar your character has with an epic backstory, or some other measure of character development, PROGRESSION is a mechanic that stretches back to the earliest days of RPGs. We will dig into the layers of what and how games offer progression to players in this episode of RPG Xray.Appendix X:The Rook