Tag: D&D Beyond

The Weekly Podcast no.287 – Tariffs Lawsuit, Warmachine Mk4, Roll20 & Demiplane and Halo App

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The Pacific Legal Foundation has filed a lawsuit on behalf of Stonemaier Games and other small business plaintiffs challenging the legality of recently applied tariffs on Chinese imports. The lawsuit, detailed in an April 30, 2025 article, argues that President Biden’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose these tariffs exceeds presidential authority, as the 1977 law makes no mention of tariffs and has historically been used only for economic sanctions. The plaintiffs, including tabletop game publisher Stonemaier Games, children’s clothing company Princess Awesome & Boy Wonder, art gallery Quent Cordair Fine Art, and metal treatment company 300 Below, seek refunds for tariffs already paid and aim to “restore the proper limits of presidential authority” by reasserting that tariff authority is constitutionally granted exclusively to Congress, not the executive branch.

Steamforged Games is rejuvenating the Warmachine franchise, which previously competed closely with Warhammer 40K in the miniature wargaming sector. Following a challenging period, Warmachine is set to make a strong comeback in 2025, and to generate excitement, the senior team at Steamforged will host a live Ask Me Anything (AMA) session on Discord. Scheduled for May 8, 2025, this event will feature key figures from the company who will address questions about the game’s revival, new model releases, and future plans, creating direct engagement opportunities for fans. The AMA will not only provide insights into the development of the Warmachine universe but also includes promotions such as giveaways of starter sets for beginners, designed to help newcomers engage with the game. Attendees will have the chance to interact via video and chat, making this a dynamic platform for community building. Additionally, ongoing support for the game will be featured, including updates on expansions and exclusive content available through the Warmachine app.

Roll20, which acquired the Demiplane rules compendium platform in June 2024, has launched a public beta integrating the two systems. This integration allows users to seamlessly link their Demiplane characters to Roll20 campaigns without exporting or rebuilding, with both platforms now offering cross-platform sync and shared subscription benefits active since February. The public beta currently supports character sheets for six game systems (Alien: RPG, Candela Obscura, Cyberpunk RED, Marvel Multiverse Role-Playing Game, Pathfinder 2e, and Vampire the Masquerade 5e), with over 2,000 data fields available for use in Modscripts and Macros. This integration represents another step in Roll20’s strategy to become a comprehensive tabletop gaming platform, following previous acquisitions of DriveThruRPG and Dungeon Scrawl.

Mantic Games has launched the Halo: Flashpoint app to facilitate gameplay and event management for players. This app will provide users with access to full rules, gameplay content, and a free list-building feature, enabling players to create their army lists conveniently. The app supports both free and subscription-based functionalities, allowing for organized play and the ability to run tournaments. Covering a range of features, the app aims to enhance the gaming experience for Halo: Flashpoint fans, making it a comprehensive tool for both casual and competitive play.

Andrew Clayton, creator of Foundry Virtual Tabletop (VTT), has taken a strong stance against the use of generative AI in the tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) industry, calling it a “betrayal” of the artists, writers, and designers who built the space. In a recent interview, Clayton described AI-generated content as “soulless and derivative,” arguing that it exploits creative work without consent. This view sharply contrasts with Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks, who has openly embraced AI for Dungeons & Dragons development. While Foundry as a company opposes AI integration, some user-created modules do include AI tools, but Clayton emphasizes that Foundry itself will not support AI, now or in the future. This puts Foundry at odds with Hasbro’s vision, despite its official partnership with D&D.

#warmachine #roll20 #demiplane #halo #foundryvtt

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The Weekly no.281 – Sigil DOA, Wildsea Bundle of Holding, Black Powder and Brimstone and RipCrypt Dungeon Sprint

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Wizards of the Coast’s virtual tabletop project, Sigil, appears to be in trouble after mass layoffs eliminated 90% of its development team shortly after launch. Originally announced as part of the One D&D initiative in 2022, Sigil was intended to integrate with D&D Beyond and provide a high-end 3D alternative to existing VTTs like Roll20. However, the platform struggled with performance issues, unclear monetization plans, and a lack of a distinct purpose. Despite high-profile showcases, its reception was lukewarm, with a rushed release in February 2025 requiring a paid D&D Beyond subscription for full access. The layoffs suggest Wizards may be abandoning the project, leaving questions about future updates and support. With only a small team remaining, Sigil risks becoming another failed digital experiment by Wizards of the Coast.

The Wildsea, a narrative-driven weird-fantasy TTRPG by Mythworks, is set in a world overrun by rampant greenery, where chainsaw-powered ships navigate a vast, toxic forest canopy. Players take on roles as wildsailors—descendants of humanity and other strange beings—exploring ruins, hunting creatures, and trading rare goods. The complete Wildsea game line is now available for $19.95 in a Bundle of Holding, including the 368-page core rulebook, two sourcebooks (Storm & Root and Ship Gardens), and two full-length adventures (One-Armed Scissor and Red Right Hand). While the game offers deep immersion and unique mechanics, some rules may require careful interpretation. This limited-time bundle provides everything needed to dive into the richly detailed world of the Verdancy.

Blackpowder & Brimstone is a grimdark fantasy RPG by Benjamin Tobitt, published under Free League’s Workshop label and powered by the MÖRK BORG ruleset. Set in a world of religious schism and war, players take on the roles of desperate adventurers navigating a conflict between the Orthodox and Puritans of the Church of the Sacred Blood. The game blends swashbuckling action with gothic folk horror, featuring black powder weapons, demonic threats, and forbidden magic with dangerous consequences. It offers a rules-light, art-heavy experience with unique weapons, deadly combat, and rich lore. After a successful crowdfunding campaign, Blackpowder & Brimstone is now available through Free League’s store and DriveThruRPG, promising intense, fast-paced gameplay where survival and profit go hand in hand.

RipCrypt, a fast-paced “dungeon sprint” TTRPG, is set to launch in 2025 through a partnership between indie studio Gritsilk Games and major publisher Modiphius Entertainment. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, the game will be released in both retail and online stores, featuring a core rulebook, premium edition, and a control board. Set in the Undergrade, a maze of crypts and catacombs, RipCrypt blends tactical gameplay with immersive storytelling, catering to both newcomers and veteran RPG players. The game emphasizes quick character creation, fast combat resolution, and streamlined mechanics, with a roll-high d8 dice pool and unique progression system. With its lo-fi analog aesthetics, concise 148-page rulebook, and a wealth of illustrated content, RipCrypt aims to offer an engaging, accessible RPG experience that redefines the dungeon-crawling genre.

#sigil #wildsea #freeleague #ripcrypt

D&D Beyond Sigil:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sigil

Wildsea Bundle of Holding:

https://bundleofholding.com/presents/Wildsea

Black Powder and Brimstone (affiliate link):

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/515145/black-powder-and-brimstone-core-book

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https://gritsilk.com/

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The Weekly LIVE 280 – Sigil Released,The Western Reaches, Rising POD Costs and AI Bull Cocks

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Dungeons & Dragons’ new virtual tabletop platform, Sigil, has launched with high expectations but demonstrates significant shortcomings, feeling incomplete and more akin to a pre-alpha version than a polished product. While it boasts aesthetically pleasing 3D graphics and ties to D&D Beyond for character integration, the app struggles with functionality, lacking essential features for game management and customization, which detracts from the user experience. Many users report frustrating bugs and inconsistencies with character imports and game mechanics, suggesting the need for manual oversight. Critics note that despite its visual appeal, Sigil does not adequately compete with established virtual tabletops, and its current state casts doubt on its potential for future improvement. Additionally, feedback from the community reflects skepticism about its overall viability as a go-to platform for D&D sessions, particularly given the limitations on customization and gameplay integration.

The newly launched crowdfunding campaign for the Western Reaches setting, designed for the Shadowdark roleplaying game by the Arcane Library, is rapidly gaining traction, having surpassed half a million dollars within hours of its start. With a goal to reach the million-dollar mark, this sandbox environment includes new classes, ancestries, and themed areas like the Gloaming Forest and Djurum Desert. The offering comes in two hardcover editions, priced at $129 and $149 for a premium version, with fulfillment anticipated by December 2025. As it stands, The Western Reaches already ranks as one of the highest first-day funded tabletop RPG projects, indicating significant interest from the gaming community.

DriveThruRPG has issued a warning to publishers about impending increases in Print on Demand (POD) costs, which could rise significantly—by 20-50%—starting April 1st due to escalating supply costs. This increase primarily affects black and white printing, including both hardcover and softcover formats, attributed to issues such as tariffs and supply chain disruptions. While DriveThruRPG has stated they won’t adjust selling prices immediately, the heightened publishing costs may lead to price increases for customers, particularly impacting smaller publishers who might face reduced profitability. Publishers are encouraged to consider purchasing POD products soon to avoid the upcoming price hikes.

Chris Cocks, Hasbro’s CEO, who has played Dungeons & Dragons for 40 years, emphasizes the importance of trust and collaboration in both gaming and corporate leadership. He has been focusing on a “pivot back to play” strategy at Hasbro, moving away from a previous emphasis on storytelling to enhance product design, innovation, and customer engagement. Cocks has reduced the company’s content spending significantly and shifted its approach toward capital-light licensing to maintain profitability, while also exploring new markets to address emerging challenges. He highlights the need for adaptability within the supply chain and aims to capture a broader customer base by creating affordable toys for emerging markets. Cocks is also an advocate for integrating artificial intelligence into gaming, arguing it can enhance creativity and engagement in Dungeons & Dragons. While he perceives AI as a tool that can democratize content creation, he acknowledges current platforms often fail to compensate creators adequately. He envisions future offerings that could enable parents to customize popular brands like Peppa Pig and enrich D&D campaigns, framing AI as a beneficial addition to the brand. Despite potential challenges related to tariffs and manufacturing costs, Cocks maintains a hopeful outlook for reaching more consumers and evolving Hasbro’s product lines to meet changing demographics and preferences.

D&D Beyond Sigil:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sigil

The Western Reaches Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/shadowdarkrpg/western-reaches

Chris Cocks Interview’

https://www.semafor.com/article/03/06/2025/we-had-to-go-back-to-play-how-hasbros-dungeon-master-ceo-got-serious-about-games

#sigil #wshadowdark #dtrpg #chriscocks

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The Weekly LIVE 267 – No More HasbroToy Movies, Lord of the Rings on D&D Beyond, Exodus TTRPG and Black Friday TTRPG Sales

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Hasbro has decided to step back from financing films based on its toys, following financial disappointments from movies like Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves and Transformers One. While these films were critically appreciated, their box office returns fell short, prompting Hasbro to leave the movie-making business. The company is now open to licensing its brands for others to adapt into films but will no longer co-finance such projects. This decision is ironic given the massive success of 2023’s toy-based Barbie film, which became a global phenomenon. Under CEO Chris Cocks, a gaming-focused leader, Hasbro plans to shift its resources toward interactive entertainment, including a potential push into video game development. However, this pivot likely means fans won’t see sequels to movies like Honor Among Thieves, despite its creative take on classic D&D themes.

Fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth can now access The Lord of the Rings Roleplaying sourcebook on D&D Beyond. Created by Swedish publisher Free League, this adaptation tailors the award-winning One Ring RPG for Dungeons & Dragons’ fifth edition ruleset. The 240-page guide features six classes, 12 subclasses, 14 species, and 42 unique feats designed to capture the essence of Tolkien’s world. It also includes adventure paths for levels 1–10, complemented by compatible maps for D&D Beyond’s virtual tabletop. While the physical book costs over $50 on Free League’s website, the D&D Beyond edition is available for $29.99, offering players a seamless way to explore Middle-earth using modern tools.

Wizards of the Coast’s Archetype Entertainment has announced Exodus: The Traveler’s Handbook, a tabletop RPG tied to its upcoming sci-fi video game Exodus. Created by James Ohlen, a veteran designer of classics like Baldur’s Gate and Knights of the Old Republic, this TTRPG invites players to lead “Travelers” on perilous missions involving alien artifacts and time-dilation consequences. The tabletop game is offered as a limited pre-order for “founders” who subscribe to the game’s email list before December 10. While details about gameplay mechanics remain scarce, speculation suggests a possible adaptation of D&D’s 5E rules. Both the game and TTRPG aim to expand the Exodus universe, blending space exploration with rich storytelling.

Tabletop role-playing game enthusiasts can find numerous Black Friday deals this season. Key highlights include discounts from Goodman Games (15–40% off), Paizo, and Exalted Funeral (25–50% off). Magpie Games is running month-long promotions, while Dungeon Alchemist offers 20% off its map-making software on Steam. Fans of smaller publishers can explore sales from Elf Lair Games and Arken Forge, among others, for a wide range of deals on adventures, supplements, and tools to enhance their gaming experience.

#lotr #dndbeyond #exodusrpg #blackfriday

BLACK FRIDAY SALES

Goodman Games:

https://goodman-games.com/store/ (15-40% off)
https://goodman-games.com/blog/2024/11/26/black-friday-is-early-save-up-to-40-on-5e-adventures/ (15-40% off)

Coupon codes goodhaul2024 and indiehaul2024 will be automatically applied to qualifying orders at checkout.

Paizo https://paizo.com/store/sale/blackFriday2024

Exalted Funeral https://www.exaltedfuneral.com (25-50% off)

Magpie Games https://magpiegames.com/ (month long sale)

City of Mists https://cityofmist.co/pages/shop

Elf Lair Games https://www.elflair.com https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/publisher/3869/Elf-Lair-Games

Arken Forge https://arkenforge.com

US$17.50 $35.00

Dungeon Alchemist -20% on Steam

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1588530/Dungeon_Alchemist/

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The Weekly LIVE 256 – D&D Beyond Debacle, Gav Thorpe Joins Konflikt 47, Start Here RPG and Dungeon World Purchased

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The D&D Beyond digital toolset, a crucial platform for many Dungeons & Dragons players, is undergoing significant changes that may complicate its use before improvements are realized. Following Hasbro’s acquisition of the toolset in April 2022, it has become a central hub for 5th edition Dungeons & Dragons, especially as more users transitioned to digital platforms during the pandemic. The upcoming transition from the 2014 to the 2024 version of the Player’s Handbook involves complex steps to maintain compatibility between the old and new rules, including the need to manually recreate some spells and magic items from the 2014 ruleset to function with the new digital character sheets. Wizards of the Coast plans to implement a “Legacy” system in D&D Beyond, allowing users to access older 2014 materials alongside the new 2024 rules. While some rules will be automatically updated, others, such as classes, subclasses, and species, will remain accessible in their original form. However, this system may lead to challenges, as older and newer rules may overlap, requiring players to manually adjust their characters or use the homebrew system to maintain the original functionality of certain spells and items.

The planned update has sparked controversy among the D&D community, with many players expressing frustration over the forced integration of the 2024 rules into their current campaigns. The automatic update of spells and items has been particularly contentious, as it disrupts ongoing gameplay. Wizards of the Coast has faced backlash for this approach, leading them to reconsider and allow players the option to continue using older versions of spells and items without forcing updates. In response to the outcry, Wizards of the Coast has announced that they will not automatically update character sheets with the new rules, preserving the existing content while adding the 2024 rules as optional updates. This change has been welcomed by the community, as it restores player choice in how they interact with the toolset and the game’s evolving rules.

In a related development, Wizards of the Coast has also expanded its partnerships with third-party content creators, bringing new content to the D&D Beyond Marketplace. This includes collaborations with companies like Free League Publishing, Kobold Press, and others, offering a broader range of resources for players and Dungeon Masters alike. These partnerships indicate a continued effort to enrich the D&D Beyond platform with diverse content from across the tabletop role-playing game industry.

“Start Here RPG” is designed as an easy-to-learn and streamlined tabletop roleplaying game, created by veteran game designer Tim Beach. The game is intended for both newcomers and experienced players who find traditional RPG rulebooks overwhelming. With rules that can be learned in just a few minutes, “Start Here” allows players to quickly jump into the gameplay without the need for extensive preparation.

The game system is straightforward, with characters defined by six attributes that directly influence dice rolls and outcomes in the game, making it intuitive and minimizing the need for complex rules. The “Start Here” RPG consists of a trio of books that guide players through the basics of roleplaying and gradually introduce more complex concepts. The first book is tailored for beginners, offering simple rules, sample characters, and an introductory fantasy setting called “Serpents & Strongholds.” The second book expands on the rules, providing more character options, leveling-up mechanics, and a science fiction setting called “Star Ex.” The third book, “Campaign Sampler,” delves deeper into different settings, including a zombie-apocalypse scenario “Zombiesaurus Rex” and a Western-themed “Wizards & Wranglers,” offering more adventure ideas and campaign details. Tim Beach, who has over 30 years of experience in the RPG industry, created “Start Here” to fill the need for an accessible yet complete roleplaying game. The project is a passion endeavor, developed over several years, with support from other editors, authors, and artists. The game aims to offer a fun, easy, and immersive roleplaying experience without the complexity of traditional RPGs.

Gav Thorpe, a renowned Warhammer 40,000 author and designer, has joined the design team for Warlord Games’ alternate-history World War 2 wargame, Konflikt ‘47. Thorpe is known for his extensive work on multiple editions of Warhammer 40k and Warhammer Fantasy Battles, as well as for authoring numerous Warhammer novels. His addition to the Konflikt ‘47 team, led by Andy Chambers, marks another ex-Games Workshop great joining the project. Thorpe, who is passionate about World War 2 games and alternate history, expressed excitement about contributing to Konflikt ‘47, a game that blends WW2 with weird-science elements. Recently, Warlord Games has also brought on board other notable figures, including Cam Rogers, a narrative lead with experience in the videogame industry, and William “Bill” King, a prolific Warhammer author and game designer. The collaboration of these veteran designers has generated anticipation for the next edition of Konflikt ‘47, which may or may not incorporate the upcoming Bolt Action third edition rules. The project is seen as a revival of the 1990s Warhammer design studio, given the involvement of several key figures from that era.

Luke Crane, known for designing The Burning Wheel and Mouse Guard RPGs, has acquired the rights to Dungeon World from its original creators, Adam Koebel and Sage LaTorra. Crane announced on the Dungeon World+ Discord that he, along with a business partner, purchased the game and is planning a new edition. The first edition of Dungeon World, released in 2012, was highly acclaimed and won several awards, including the 2012 Golden Geek RPG of the Year. Crane, who previously worked at Kickstarter, indicated that his vision for the new edition of Dungeon World includes a thorough edit of the text, improved organization, and updated mechanics. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the game’s accessibility while refining its content. Although it is unclear if Koebel and LaTorra will be involved in the new edition, Crane’s plans suggest a focus on enhancing the game’s core qualities without drastically altering its essence. The update is expected to bring a much-needed refresh to the beloved game while preserving what made it popular in the first place.

#dndbeyond #gavthorpe #starthererpg #dungeonworld

Start Here RPG on Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/beachhousegames/the-start-here-roleplaying-game

StarTrek Adventures First Edition Bundle:

https://www.humblebundle.com/books/star-trek-adventure-rpg-first-edition-collection-modiphius-books?partner=upturnedtable

Deadzone Frontier:

https://www.myminifactory.com/frontier/deadzone-2774

Immersive RPG Bundle for Alchemy VTT (affiliate link):

https://www.humblebundle.com/software/free-league-immersive-rpg-bundle-for-alchemy-vtt-software?partner=upturnedtable

Alien 2E Kickstarter Campaign URL: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1192053011/alien-rpg-second-edition-and-rapture-protocol

4-Hour Dune RPG Review:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/review-dune-in-106781242

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Try Fantasy Grounds VTT (affiliate link):

http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/360148/15958

Outgunned RPG – Action Hero Pledge UNBOXING:
https://youtu.be/IYDyzNvQQKo

Shop at Noble Knight Games (affiliate link)
https://www.nobleknight.com/affiliate/aw.asp?B=3&A=1312&Task=Click

10% off First Purchase from Modiphius:
http://r.sloyalty.com/r/vhbUPnHm6tIp

Dragonbane Actual Play Episode One:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC9u841QuXM

Dragonbane Core Set:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/418106/Dragonbane-Core-Set

Dragonbane Free Quickstart:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/409397/Dragonbane-Quickstart

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The Weekly LIVE 252 – Alchemy VTT Bundle, D&D VTT This Year, Pirate Borg Expansions and WotC Removes Credits

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Free League Publishing, known for RPGs such as Tales from the Loop, Symbaroum, and Coriolis, has launched an extensive Immersive RPG Bundle for the Alchemy virtual tabletop (VTT). This bundle includes 50 items from Free League’s catalog, covering various rulebooks, adventures, and supplemental materials. Normally valued at over $1,000, the bundle is available for $30. Additionally, purchasing the bundle supports Direct Relief, a nonprofit providing global medical aid. The bundle features games like Tales from the Loop, Vaesen – Nordic Horror Roleplaying, Dragonbane, and Mutant Year Zero, among others. It offers core rulebooks, expansion books, pre-made adventures, and campaign books, excluding the ALIEN RPG due to licensing constraints. This special offer runs for 19 more days.

During Hasbro’s Q2 earnings call, CEO Chris Cocks announced that the D&D virtual tabletop is set to be available later this year. Described as a “3D roleplaying sandbox experience,” the VTT will be previewed at GenCon and promises to enhance the digital D&D experience with its build on Unreal Engine 5. Pre-orders for the new Player’s Handbook include a virtual miniature of a gold dragon, indicating the platform’s readiness for use. The earnings call highlighted that Wizards of the Coast, part of Hasbro, continues to drive significant revenue growth, notably through digital products like Baldur’s Gate 3 and D&D Beyond. The new VTT aims to integrate D&D’s digital and physical gameplay, offering backward compatibility with fifth edition adventures and supplements, though third parties are already referring to the new rules as “5.5.”

Limithron has announced two new expansions for the Pirate Borg tabletop RPG, to be funded through a Kickstarter campaign launching on September 17. The expansions, titled Cabin Fever and Down Among the Dead, will be released as hardcover editions along with collectible items like GM screens, dice sets, custom coins, and ship combat tokens.Cabin Fever, created through the Known Conspirators community on itch.io, features over 144 pages of content from various creators. Down Among the Dead includes three new adventures, modular rulesets, and other GM resources across 120 pages. These expansions promise to add significant new content and options for Pirate Borg players.

Faith Elisabeth Lilley, a former member of the digital content team at Wizards of the Coast (WOTC), revealed that the team’s credits have been removed from D&D Beyond. The team was responsible for integrating book content into the online platform and contributing to the book development process. Although initially agreed that the team would be credited on D&D Beyond due to space limitations in physical books, their names have recently been removed without notice.The removal of credits has sparked disappointment and criticism within the community, as it undermines the contributions of those who significantly improved the quality and success of D&D’s digital and physical products.Also, Dark Horse Comics has announced a licensing deal with Wizards of the Coast to produce new comics and graphic novels based on Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering, starting in 2025. This collaboration will feature original stories expanding the lore and universes of these popular games. Dark Horse has a history of publishing licensed gaming comics and aims to bring fresh, high-stakes stories to fans and newcomers alike.The partnership will include comic series, graphic novels, art books, and more, with a focus on engaging storytelling and captivating artwork. Fans can look forward to the first releases in the summer of 2025.

 

#alchemyvtt #pirateborg #onednd #dndbeyond

Immersive RPG Bundle for Alchemy VTT (affiliate link):

https://www.humblebundle.com/software/free-league-immersive-rpg-bundle-for-alchemy-vtt-software?partner=upturnedtable

Alien 2E Kickstarter Campaign URL: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1192053011/alien-rpg-second-edition-and-rapture-protocol

4-Hour Dune RPG Review:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/review-dune-in-106781242

Humble Bundle (affiliate link):

https://www.humblebundle.com/?partner=upturnedtable

Check out our new shirts on Red Bubble:
https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/161648028?ref=studio-promote

Try Fantasy Grounds VTT (affiliate link):

http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/360148/15958

Outgunned RPG – Action Hero Pledge UNBOXING:
https://youtu.be/IYDyzNvQQKo

Outgunned Adventure on Backerkit

https://www.backerkit.com/c/projects/two-little-mice/outgunned-2

Shop at Noble Knight Games (affiliate link)
https://www.nobleknight.com/affiliate/aw.asp?B=3&A=1312&Task=Click

10% off First Purchase from Modiphius:
http://r.sloyalty.com/r/vhbUPnHm6tIp

Dragonbane Actual Play Episode One:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC9u841QuXM

Dragonbane Core Set:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/418106/Dragonbane-Core-Set

Dragonbane Free Quickstart:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/409397/Dragonbane-Quickstart

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):
https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

https://substack.com/@matthewrobinson3

Chris on social media:
https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:
http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​
https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons
https://twitter.com/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:
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Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe
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The Weekly LIVE 245 – Roll20 Buys Demiplane, Steamforged Buys Warmachine, Instagram Training AI and Adam Bradford Hired by Fantasy Grounds

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Roll20 has acquired Demiplane, a character management and creation toolset, to enhance its virtual tabletop (VTT) platform. This acquisition aims to create a seamless user experience for tabletop RPG players, allowing them to buy RPG content, manage characters, and play games in one place. Roll20 CEO Ankit Lal emphasized the goal of connecting gamers and providing a comprehensive digital toolkit for various game systems. Demiplane’s integration will support new game systems and Kickstarter campaigns with digital options. Demiplane CEO Peter Romenesko mentioned efforts to merge the two platforms’ features. The acquisition won’t immediately impact users, but Demiplane’s development team, minus executive Adam Bradford, will stay intact. Bradford has joined SmiteWorks, the owner of Fantasy Grounds, as Chief Development Officer.

Steamforged Games has acquired the Iron Kingdoms universe, including the Warmachine wargame, Formula P3 paints, and the Iron Kingdoms RPG series, from Privateer Press. This acquisition aims to enhance the gaming experience for players through a collaboration between Steamforged and Privateer Press on design and development. Steamforged, known for its successful game development, plans to transition the range to its website, ensuring a smooth changeover while honoring existing orders. The acquisition is expected to strengthen the miniature gaming community, with continued support for related events and upcoming releases, including a Kickstarter for the Iron Kingdoms RPG.

Meta has confirmed that it uses public Instagram images to train its AI image generator, sparking outrage among users, especially artists. Many are considering leaving Instagram due to this and the platform’s declining reach. Despite the backlash, opting out is complicated and mainly available to EU users. Superstar artist J. Scott Campbell advised artists to remain on major platforms like Instagram for business growth, though he has joined the artist-friendly platform Cara. Cara promises to filter out AI-generated content and offers an alternative for those concerned about AI’s ethical issues. Campbell also suggests artists build direct connections with their audience through mailing lists.

SmiteWorks, the developer behind the virtual tabletop software Fantasy Grounds, has hired Adam Bradford as its Chief Development Officer. Bradford, known for founding D&D Beyond and leading Demiplane, brings significant experience to his new role. At SmiteWorks, he will focus on expanding Fantasy Grounds’ market presence, enhancing user engagement, and improving user experience. Doug Davison, President of SmiteWorks, expressed confidence in Bradford’s ability to drive growth and innovation. Bradford is enthusiastic about contributing to the success of Fantasy Grounds and aims to modernize its visual identity.

#warmachine #fantasygrounds #meta #demiplane #roll20

Mork Borg Action Figure Kicksarter:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/justinsirois/mork-borg-action-figure-w-zine-by-stockholm-kartell

Outgunned RPG – Action Hero Pledge UNBOXING:
https://youtu.be/IYDyzNvQQKo

Replicant Rebellion:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1192053011/blade-runner-rpg-replicant-rebellion-and-asset-pack

Outgunned Adventure on Backerkit

https://www.backerkit.com/c/projects/two-little-mice/outgunned-2

The Sassoon Files Second Edition:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/singularity-sons/the-sassoon-files-second-edition

RPG Humble Bundles:

https://www.humblebundle.com/?partner=upturnedtable

Shop at Noble Knight Games (affiliate link)
https://www.nobleknight.com/affiliate/aw.asp?B=3&A=1312&Task=Click

10% off First Purchase from Modiphius:
http://r.sloyalty.com/r/vhbUPnHm6tIp

Dragonbane Actual Play Episode One:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC9u841QuXM

Dragonbane Core Set:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/418106/Dragonbane-Core-Set

Dragonbane Free Quickstart:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/409397/Dragonbane-Quickstart

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):
https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

Chris on social media:
https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:
http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​
https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons
https://twitter.com/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:
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Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe
https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

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The Weekly LIVE 242 – Darkness at the Brink of Ohio, One More Multiverse, Greyhawk 2024 and Soloman Kane RPG

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“Darkness at the Brink of Ohio” is a new solo tabletop roleplaying game designed by Banana Chan. The game follows the transformation of a late-night radio DJ into something horrific and otherworldly. Set in Akron, Ohio, players choose one of three characters (a clinical lab tech, a gas station attendant, or a security guard) as they listen to a horrific event involving DJ Mike from 106.6: The Brink. The game includes a soundtrack released for free on YouTube. Themes in this solo RPG include parasocial relationships and hypervisibility within a small fanbase. The book will be approximately 100-125 pages with a cover illustrated by Michael Croteau.

One More Multiverse, a virtual tabletop app, is closing down after four years. It offered pixel-art sprites and a user-friendly interface for playing RPGs online. The app supported games like Blades in the Dark and Yazeba’s Bed and Breakfast. Despite efforts, sustainability became an issue. Assets and verses created by players will remain accessible for 90 days. The closure announcement precedes the official release date for Yazeba’s. Players have 90 days to download or screenshot their creations. A well-crafted alternative to platforms like Roll20 and D&D Beyond, it’s unfortunate to see it go.

The 2024 edition of Dungeons & Dragons will feature Greyhawk as a sample setting in the Dungeon Master’s Guide. Greyhawk, one of the original D&D campaign settings created by Gary Gygax, will be showcased with a double-sided poster map including the City of Greyhawk and the Flanaess. The setting is presented as a template for Dungeon Masters to create their own worlds, with enough detail to bring Greyhawk to life but also leaving room for customization. The release is part of D&D’s 50th-anniversary celebration, highlighting Greyhawk’s classic fantasy elements and its potential for new adventures. The Dungeon Master’s Guide is set to release on November 12, 2024.

The Savage World of Solomon Kane RPG is based on the works of Robert E. Howard and allows players to embark on adventures as Solomon Kane, a hero battling evil in the 17th century. The game emphasizes themes of good versus evil and encourages gamemasters to create a grim setting where players can fight against darkness. The Savage Worlds Adventure Edition (SWADE) system is used for its simplicity and ease of play. The content for this RPG is Kickstarter Exclusive and will not be available through retail.

#bananachan #OMM #greyhawk #solomankane

Darkness at the Brink of Ohio:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/gameandacurry/the-darkness-at-the-brink-of-ohio

The Sassoon Files Second Edition:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/singularity-sons/the-sassoon-files-second-edition

RPG Humble Bundles:

https://www.humblebundle.com/?partner=upturnedtable

Shop at Noble Knight Games (affiliate link)
https://www.nobleknight.com/affiliate/aw.asp?B=3&A=1312&Task=Click

10% off First Purchase from Modiphius:
http://r.sloyalty.com/r/vhbUPnHm6tIp

Dragonbane Actual Play Episode One:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC9u841QuXM

Dragonbane Core Set:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/418106/Dragonbane-Core-Set

Dragonbane Free Quickstart:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/409397/Dragonbane-Quickstart

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):
https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

Chris on social media:
https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:
http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​
https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons
https://twitter.com/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:
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Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe
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The Weekly LIVE 241 – D&D Beyond Changes, 13th Age 2E, Edgerunners Starter Kit and The Sassoon Files 2E

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D&D Beyond, the official digital service for Dungeons & Dragons 5e, recently underwent a major redesign. However, the removal of the option to purchase individual content has sparked outrage among players. Previously, players could buy specific elements from official sourcebooks at a cheaper price than buying the entire book. But with the recent update, players must now purchase the full book to access its content, leading to increased costs and restrictions on customization. This change has drawn criticism from the community, with players expressing concerns about limited character options and higher prices, potentially discouraging new players and increasing costs for existing ones. Some players speculate that these changes are motivated by financial gain, but it’s uncertain how they will ultimately impact the game and its community. 

The 13th Age Second Edition Kickstarter campaign aims to refresh and modernize the popular tabletop RPG. Key features include revamped class powers and revitalized monsters, providing players with a wide array of options for effective gameplay. Character backstory plays a significant role, shaping the game’s narrative and providing bonuses to skill checks. Additionally, the game strengthens storytelling mechanics through icon connections, offering both narrative advantages and consequences. The second edition will consist of two reasonably-sized books: the Player’s Handbook and the Gamemaster’s Guide. These books will include updated rules, monsters, and setting materials. The campaign offers various pledge tiers, including options for digital and physical rewards, as well as limited edition items. Overall, the goal is to enhance the gaming experience while maintaining compatibility with previous editions and supplements.

Talsorian Games is releasing a Cyberpunk: Edgerunners Mission Kit for Cyberpunk Red, inspired by the anime and the Cyberpunk 2077 game. Priced at $35, the kit includes three books totaling 120 pages, providing instructions for new players, lore from Cyberpunk 2077, and backgrounds for characters from the anime. The set also contains a full-length mission titled “The Jacket” set after the events of the anime. The kit features themed dice, standees, tokens, and maps, along with artwork by the anime’s director, Hiroyuki Imaishi. The release is slated for mid-to-late June, available in physical and digital formats.

The Sons of the Singularity are launching a Kickstarter campaign for “The Sassoon Files, 2nd Edition,” a horror campaign for the Call of Cthulhu role-playing game set in 1920s Shanghai. Victor Sassoon leads a diverse team in defending the city against Mythos influence. The new edition doubles the content of the original, featuring expanded scenarios, campaign settings, and improved production. It explores Shanghai’s history and factions like Communists, Nationalists, Triads, and the Japanese, along with the secret Mythos history. The campaign will offer PDF and hardcover versions with scenarios, lore sheets, pre-generated characters, maps, and handouts. The development team includes writers, artists, and a cultural consultant. The Kickstarter launches on May 11th.

#dndbeyond #13thAge #edgerunners #sassoonfiles

13th Age Second Edition:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/pelgranepress/13th-age-second-edition-storytelling-action-fantasy-game

The Sassoon Files Second Edition:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/singularity-sons/the-sassoon-files-second-edition

RPG Humble Bundles:

https://www.humblebundle.com/?partner=upturnedtable

Shop at Noble Knight Games (affiliate link)
https://www.nobleknight.com/affiliate/aw.asp?B=3&A=1312&Task=Click

10% off First Purchase from Modiphius:
http://r.sloyalty.com/r/vhbUPnHm6tIp

Dragonbane Actual Play Episode One:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC9u841QuXM

Dragonbane Core Set:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/418106/Dragonbane-Core-Set

Dragonbane Free Quickstart:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/409397/Dragonbane-Quickstart

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):
https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

Chris on social media:
https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:
http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​
https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons
https://twitter.com/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:
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Give us a tip on our livestream:
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Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe
https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

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The Weekly LIVE 139 – The Last Prospector for Stargrave, D&D Beyond Handover, Role Players Doc and Reproductive Rights Bundle

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The Last Prospector is a new campaign supplement for the sci-fi tabletop miniatures game Stargrave by creator Joseph McCullough. In this clever approach to a two-player campaign, the ten scenarios are not played in a narrative sequence, but are chosen by the winner of the previous scenario. There is also a Faction Standing mechanic where crews need to have a positive standing with one or more of the six factions in the supplement to receive faction bonuses. This supplement follows the previous Quarantine 37. Stargrave is the scifi sibling to the fantasy-themed Frostgrave. Both games are miniatures agnostic and d20 based. If you like miniatures skirmish games, this is a good as it gets.

WotC takes control of D&D Beyond next week.There will be a request to update permissions and the WotC Terms of Service and they also clarified what will happen to homebrew and other user-generated content. This follows the WotC buyout of D&D beyond earlier this year, but the official transfer of ownership takes place next week. If you have an account, you might notice a few changes. In related news, D&D Beyond will be permanently removing Volo’s Guide to Monsters and Mordenkainen’s Tome of Foes on May 17th in favor of the upcoming Monsters of the Multiverse book.

Global documentary studio XTR is working on a brand new documentary about the tabletop RPG Dungeons & Dragons. Inspired by the spike in popularity the game has experienced since its release of Fifth Edition in the Summer of 2014. This is the first full-fledged film on the subject. The documentary is being called Role Players and will cover everything about the seminal fantasy game from its beginnings to present day. This kind of attention can only add to the current popularity or turn off prospective players by how the community is portrayed.

Finally we have a charity bundle from DriveThruRPG’s ‘RPGs For Reproductive Justice’ Bundle Gets You 57 Games For Only $25. In the wake of the leaked Supreme Court decision, a number of RPG creators have come together to raise money for reproductive justice on DriveThruRPG. One of the best ways you can help is by giving to organizations already doing the work. Which is what the Hydra Cooperative, an indie RPG co-op, is doing with the RPGs for Reproductive Justice Bundle. Get some great games while supporting a good cause. #dndbeyond #stargrave #bundle #wotc

The Last Prospestor for Stargrave on DTRPG (affiliate link): https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/391955/Stargrave-The-Last-Prospector?affiliate_id=2081746

DriveThruRPG’s ‘RPGs For Reproductive Justice’ Bundle (affiliate link) https://www.drivethrurpg.com/m/product/395890?affiliate_id=2081746

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link): https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

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