Tag: Gen Con

The Weekly LIVE 301 – Dungeon Crawler Carl, Hellfire Club Minis, Sword World, Diablo RPG and #300?

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Renegade Game Studios announces a “full scale” Dungeon Crawler Carl RPG based on Matt Dinniman’s popular LitRPG series. The game will immerse players in the hilariously brutal world of Carl, featuring deadly traps, absurd loot, and relentless entertainment derived from the book series about a Coast Guard veteran and his ex-girlfriend’s cat competing in an alien-created dungeon crawl. Renegade, known for their licensed IP work including World of Darkness, Power Rangers, and GI Joe RPGs, plans additional Dungeon Crawler Carl titles including board and deck-building games, with the RPG expected in 2026.

WizKids unveiled D&D Stranger Things: Heroes of Hellfire, a new miniatures set launching in October 2025 that features six painted miniatures of the Stranger Things cast’s D&D characters, including Lady Applejack, Tayr the Paladin, and a classic pewter-style D&D Vecna. This release coincides with WotC’s upcoming Stranger Things: Welcome to the Hellfire Club RPG boxed set, demonstrating the continued expansion of cross-media RPG merchandise and tie-ins that leverage popular entertainment properties to attract new players to tabletop gaming.

Glass Cannon Unplugged is developing an official Diablo tabletop RPG set to launch via Kickstarter in Fall 2025, featuring a custom d6 dice pool system designed for “cinematic action” and fast-paced tactical combat. The game promises to address a common D&D criticism by starting players as “seasoned heroes” rather than “inexperienced and squishy 1st levels,” allowing immediate access to epic-level gameplay from session zero. The 300+ page core rulebook will be accompanied by premium miniatures and an anthology of one-shot adventures written by RPG industry luminaries including John Harper (Blades in the Dark), Joe LeFavi (Blade Runner RPG), and Shawn Tomkin (Ironsworn).

Mugen Gaming announced they are bringing Sword World RPG to English for the first time, localizing Japan’s most successful and culturally significant fantasy RPG that has eclipsed Dungeons & Dragons in its home market since 1989. Created by Group SNE and originally serving as the official Lodoss War RPG, Sword World uses a 2d6 system with flexible multi-classing that emphasizes teamwork and collaborative storytelling over individual heroism. The company plans to crowdfund the Sword World 2.5 Deluxe Rulebook in 2026, with long-term support including expansions, adventures, and community resources to establish the game in the English-speaking market.

#dungeoncrawlercarl #hellfireclub #swordworld #diablo

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The Weekly Podcast no.288 – Tariff Wars, Citizen Sleeper: Spindlejack, Gamefound RPG Party and Liquid Steel

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Denver-based game creator Luke Stratton, a former concert lighting designer, developed a pirate-themed tabletop RPG called “Pirate Borg” during the pandemic. However, his business is now facing significant challenges due to new import tariffs that have more than doubled the cost of manufacturing game components in China from $50,000 to $125,000. With limited alternatives, Stratton may need to seek additional investment or increase the game’s price.

The TTRPG industry is experiencing shifts in convention attendance, as UK publisher Rowan, Rook, and Decard announced they won’t attend Gen Con this year due to safety concerns related to the U.S. political climate. While their booth will be operated by U.S. representatives, there will be no UK staff presence for events or meetings, following a trend of international creators canceling U.S. appearances.

New game releases continue to generate excitement, including “Citizen Sleeper: Spindlejack,” a free solo tabletop RPG adaptation of the popular indie video game where players use dice to survive as an airbike courier on a space station. 

The crowdfunding platform GameFound has partnered with DriveThruRPG and publishers like Magpie Games and Chaosium to launch “RPG Party,” an initiative supporting independent TTRPG creators with resources, mentorship, and marketing assistance.

The Melsonian Arts Council is crowdfunding “Liquid Steel,” a project that translates Eduardo Mazzitelli and Enrique Alcatena’s classic Argentinian science-fantasy comic series into English for the first time, alongside a tabletop RPG adaptation compatible with the TROIKA! gaming system. The campaign offers both books separately or together, with manufacturing planned in Europe to avoid U.S. tariff complications for American customers, and estimated delivery by October 2025.

#pirateborg #citizensleeper #gamefound #liquidsteel

Citizen Sleeper: Spinlejack

https://jump-over-the-age.itch.io/citizen-sleeper-spindlejack

Gamefound RPG Party Application:

https://forms.office.com/e/FwS2T832iH

Liquid Steel on Backerkit:

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The Weekly LIVE 274 – Astartes 2, Legacy of Kain TTPRG, ENnies Ban AI and Dirtbags! for Zinequest

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Games Workshop has unveiled a new teaser trailer for Astartes II, the much-anticipated follow-up to the acclaimed Astartes animation. While the teaser doesn’t showcase actual footage from the upcoming project, it hints at the backstories of key characters and sets the tone for a grimdark narrative deeply rooted in Warhammer 40,000 lore. Syama, the creator of the original Astartes, is collaborating closely with the Warhammer Studio to deliver another visually stunning and action-packed story. The animation is set to release in 2026, leaving fans with a long wait, but in the meantime, they can explore other Warhammer+ animations, including Return to Cadia from the Hammer and Bolter series.

Meanwhile, the Legacy of Kain franchise is making a return with a tabletop RPG, Scourge of the Sarafan, developed by Lost in Cult and published under the MÖRK BORG system. Set in Nosgoth, the game allows players to take on the role of vampire-hunting warrior-priests as they battle the growing undead menace. Alongside this, The Book of Nosgoth, an in-depth encyclopedia exploring the franchise’s history, lore, and development, is also in the works. Both projects are being crowdfunded and will be available individually or as part of a deluxe edition. With Legacy of Kain’s dark themes of fate, free will, and morality, this revival aims to immerse fans once again in the gothic world of Nosgoth.

The ENnie Awards, a prestigious tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) awards ceremony, has announced that from the 2025-2026 cycle onward, any product containing generative AI content will be ineligible. This decision follows criticism of their previous 2023 policy, which allowed AI-generated content in certain categories while restricting it in others. After receiving feedback from the TTRPG community, the ENnies determined that AI-generated content undermines creativity and originality, leading to this stricter policy. The new rule applies to AI-assisted writing, visual content, and editing, ensuring that all submitted works are entirely human-made. While the policy does not retroactively affect the 2024-2025 awards, it marks a significant shift in response to industry concerns over AI’s role in creative endeavors. The TTRPG community has largely welcomed this decision, seeing it as a victory for human creators in an industry increasingly wary of AI’s influence. Many companies, including Wizards of the Coast, have taken a stance against AI-generated content on ethical grounds, citing issues of originality and fairness. The ENnie Awards, a volunteer-run organization, emphasized their commitment to fostering human-driven creativity and innovation within the community. As the landscape of game development continues to evolve, this policy ensures that the ENnies remain a platform for celebrating genuine artistic and narrative efforts.

Dirtbags! is a fast-paced, rules-lite sci-fi shooter RPG by The Dungeon’s Key, launching on Kickstarter for #ZineQuest on January 28th. Set in a dystopian, corporate-run future, players take on the role of convicts forced into the Military Foundation’s Rehabilitation Incentive Program (R.I.P.), battling alien infestations, pirates, and undertaking dangerous missions in the hope of freedom. The game features three core ability scores, a unique two D6 dice pool system for actions and ammo, and five character roles, emphasizing tactical and cinematic combat. Inspired by Starship Troopers, Tank Girl, and Aliens, Dirtbags! critiques corporate greed and explores mature themes while maintaining an action-packed experience. A free Quickstart Guide will be available at launch.

#astartes2 #legacyofkain #ennies #dirtbags!

Astartes II Trailer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbgYaeerXhg

Legacy of Kain TTRPG on Backerlit:

https://www.backerkit.com/c/projects/lost-in-cult/legacy-of-kain-ttrpg-and-official-encyclopaedia

ENnies Awards Policy:

https://ennie-awards.com/revised-policy-on-generative-ai-usage/

Dirtbags!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/thedungeonskey/dirtbags-a-sci-fi-shooter-ttrpg

Zinequest on Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/zinequest

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The Weekly LIVE 268 – PAX Unplugged 2024, Amazon Warhammer Deal, Elven Expansion for the One Ring and Free League Partners with 2LM

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PAX Unplugged has solidified its position as the second-largest tabletop gaming convention in the U.S., boasting its largest post-pandemic event at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia. Its prime location near major metropolitan areas like New York City and Washington, D.C., gives it a significant advantage, drawing attendees and exhibitors alike. While specific attendance numbers weren’t disclosed, experts estimate that its turnout exceeds the 17,706 reported by Origins Game Fair by 50-100%. With nearly 400 exhibitors, compared to Origins’ 326, PAX Unplugged provides a robust showcase for board and card games, often serving as an alternative to the oversaturated Gen Con.

Games Workshop has taken a bold step by granting Amazon exclusive rights to adapt Warhammer 40,000 into film and TV. This move has fans both excited and wary, given the mixed history of geek franchises transitioning to mainstream media. While licensing promises a lucrative revenue stream with minimal costs, mishandling the beloved Warhammer IP could alienate the loyal fanbase that has sustained Games Workshop since 1983. Amazon’s track record—ranging from the success of Fallout to the controversial Rings of Power—underscores the risks and rewards of this partnership. If successful, it could position Games Workshop as a leading player in media licensing while drawing new fans to its tabletop universe.

Free League has unveiled two elven expansions, Realms of the Three Rings for The One Ring RPG and Keepers of the Elven-rings for its 5E counterpart, deepening players’ exploration of Tolkien’s Middle-earth. These expansions focus on the realms of Lórien, Rivendell, and Lindon, highlighting their lore, landmarks, and the enduring power of the Three Rings. Players can also delve into Sauron’s dark schemes and take on the roles of High Elves or Elf-lords. Available for pre-order with immediate PDF access, the expansions continue Free League’s tradition of blending rich storytelling with accessible game design, appealing to both Tolkien enthusiasts and tabletop RPG fans.

Free League has partnered with Italian studio Two Little Mice to publish the cinematic action RPG Outgunned. Drawing inspiration from classic action and heist films, Outgunned uses innovative “Director’s Cut” dice mechanics, emphasizing combinations over totals. Players take on the roles of heroes fighting against formidable villains in high-stakes missions. With the core rulebook, expansions, and a mini-campaign now available, Outgunned joins Free League’s portfolio of award-winning games like MÖRK BORG and ALIEN RPG. This new addition reflects Free League’s commitment to delivering immersive and genre-diverse gaming experiences.

#paxuplugged #oneringrpg #warhammer #2LM #freeleague

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The Weekly LIVE 248 – Modiphius Acquires Strato Minis, CRIT Awards at GenCon, Caverns of Thracia and Rascal News

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Modiphius Entertainment has acquired Strato Minis Studio, a Polish company known for its resin miniatures and games such as Hardwar, Retrobots, and Stratoyager. Modiphius will take over the development of these lines, starting with a re-launch of Hardwar, a 6mm scale miniatures game centered on sci-fi mech, armor, and aerial combat. Modiphius co-founder Chris Birch praised the Strato Minis team for their intricate world-building and expressed plans to expand the game’s audience. The new Hardwar line will be released in stages, including a reprint of the core rules and a free quickstart PDF to help new players.

The CRIT Awards, organized by Ivy, announced on June 24 that their in-person ceremony would not return to Gen Con due to safety concerns. This decision followed social media backlash after the nomination of a performer associated with WafflesMapleSyrup, a studio criticized for its Zionist stance. Omega Jones, the intended host, suggested that Gen Con forced the awards to withdraw due to their anti-Zionist stance. The CRIT Awards emphasized the difficulty of the decision and urged the community to avoid harassment or violence. No official comments were received from Gen Con or CRIT Awards at the time of publication.

The Caverns of Thracia, a legendary mega-dungeon adventure, has successfully raised $352,007, far exceeding its $10,000 goal. The campaign offers both 5E and Dungeon Crawl Classics (DCC) editions, featuring a rich narrative set in an ancient dungeon filled with formidable foes and numerous secrets. The project supports a full-year campaign with extensive content, including new monsters, magic items, and spells. Stretch goals have expanded the adventure’s scope, and new scenarios and add-ons have been introduced. Backers can choose between classic hardcover or special limited editions with unique cover art and custom dice sets inspired by the adventure’s theme.

Rascal News, an independent TTRPG and culture outlet, is running its first pledge drive to ensure sustainability and support freelance writers. Launched in February, Rascal has grown to 4,150 members, including 1,050 paying subscribers. The drive aims to enable the co-founders to write full-time and commission more freelance content. Subscriber goals range from increasing contributors to attending conventions and launching a podcast. The drive runs from July 1 to August 3, with various events planned to engage the community and attract new subscribers. Rascal remains committed to reader-funded, ad-free journalism and seeks support to continue its unique, voice-driven coverage of the TTRPG world.

#modiphius #critawards #cavernsofthracia #rascalnews

Caverns of Thracia on Backerkit:
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Outgunned RPG – Action Hero Pledge UNBOXING:
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Outgunned Adventure on Backerkit

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The Weekly LIVE 196 – Conan Leaves Modiphius, Dreams and Machines, Gloomhaven Grand Festival and Renegade Studios Ceasing & Desisting

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Modiphius is holding a clearance sale before transferring the license for the Conan Roleplaying Game to Monolith. All physical and digital content from Modiphius will be discontinued on June 30th. While many physical books for the game have sold out, PDF copies of all the books are still available. The Conan Roleplaying Game has been well-received with various supplements and accessories released alongside the core rules. There is also a Quickstart Adventure available for those interested.

Modiphius, known for their official tabletop RPGs for Dune, Fallout, and Star Trek, is venturing into a new concept called Dreams and Machines. This post-apocalyptic sci-fi RPG aims to attract curious players with a starter set, making it more accessible. Pre-orders for Dreams and Machines are open on Modiphius’ website, and the game will be showcased at Gen Con 2023. The TRPG is set on a planet isolated from Earth due to a devastating robotic uprising, where society is slowly rebuilding while living in fear of dormant mecha known as Wakers.

Cephlofair Games has launched a significant crowdfunding campaign called the “Gloomhaven Grand Festival” to fund multiple Gloomhaven-related projects. This includes a new edition of Gloomhaven, a Gloomhaven Roleplaying Game, and a comprehensive miniatures set. The campaign has already raised over $1 million, surpassing half of its $2 million goal. Gloomhaven is a highly acclaimed campaign-style board game known for its dungeon-crawling gameplay. A Kickstarter campaign for its sequel, Frosthaven, previously held the record as the most-funded tabletop Kickstarter, raising nearly $13 million.

Renegade Game Studios, which produces licensed TTRPGs like Transformers, GI Joe, and Vampire: The Masquerade, has issued a cease and desist letter to a small creator using the word “renegade.” The Polyhedral Knights had a Kickstarter campaign for their game called ‘Renegade City,’ which is a tabletop RPG centered around playing criminals using dominoes instead of dice. Renegade Game Studios’ claim to the word ‘renegade’ has sparked controversy and may result in unintended negative consequences, known as the Streisand Effect. The Polyhedral Knights received a letter from Renegade Game Studios’ lawyers demanding the removal of the word ‘Renegade’ from their game’s title.

#modiphius #conan #gloomhaven #renegade

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Gloomhaven Grand Festival on Backerkit:

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Full Glorious History of NuTSR:
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Dragonbane Actual Play Episode One:
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