In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry tackle one of Dungeons & Dragons’ most iconic (and often misunderstood) mechanics: the alignment system. From lawful good to chaotic evil, the team breaks down each of the nine alignments, sharing how they influence gameplay, storytelling, and party dynamics.The conversation highlights common pitfalls and player experiences—like the rigidity of lawful good in morally grey scenarios, the unpredictability of chaotic neutral characters, and the challenge of making true neutral feel meaningful. The hosts reflect on their own alignment mishaps and preferences, injecting humour and personal anecdotes along the way.They also explore how alignments can evolve throughout a campaign, acting as tools for character growth rather than rigid labels. The discussion touches on the history of alignments in D&D, how they’ve changed across editions, and why modern players often interpret them more flexibly.Whether you’re a stickler for rules or a free-spirited wildcard, this episode offers practical insight and plenty of laughs to help you rethink your next character’s moral compass.Check out us Blokes on our official website. https://www.rpgblokes.comJoin Our Discord Community using the following link, and continue the conversation. https://discord.gg/JyVcd8PNHnNow, it's Time to .... Slice and Dice!
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33:39
Independent RPGs the Beginners Guide
In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the world of tabletop RPGs beyond Dungeons & Dragons, offering insights for middle-aged newcomers eager to expand their gaming horizons. The discussion covers standout indie titles like The One Ring, Earthdawn, and Call of Cthulhu, emphasizing fresh mechanics, immersive lore, and alternative genre experiences.They delve into horror and survival games where tension and vulnerability take precedence over heroics, contrast narrative-driven systems like Vampire: The Masquerade with D&D’s level-focused structure, and celebrate licensed games such as Alien and Blade Runner for their accessible, story-rich worlds. Throughout, the hosts stress that a passionate GM and an open mind are key to unlocking the full potential of RPGs.The episode closes with practical advice on helping D&D veterans try new systems, encouraging experimentation to keep the hobby vibrant and creatively fulfilling.Check out us Blokes on our official website. https://www.rpgblokes.comJoin Our Discord Community using the following link, and continue the conversation. https://discord.gg/JyVcd8PNHnNow, it's Time to .... Slice and Dice!
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37:01
D&D The Ultimate Gateway System
In this episode of RPG Blokes, the team dives into the world of Dungeons & Dragons—often called the perfect starting point for newcomers to tabletop RPGs.Stephen, the D&D veteran, shares insights from playing every edition since the 80s, while John highlights how the polished resources make the game approachable. Barry, with five years’ experience, reflects on overcoming the nerves of stepping into the Dungeon Master role.The team explores D&D’s 50-year heritage, the visual appeal of its books, and its rise in pop culture thanks to shows like Stranger Things. They discuss how D&D inspires creativity across literature, film, and gaming, and how its modular rules balance simplicity for beginners with depth for veterans.Combat, magic systems, character creation, and the thrill of levelling up all get attention, alongside the community spirit D&D fosters through local groups and online forums.With personal stories and practical advice, the episode captures what makes D&D not just a game, but a cultural phenomenon that keeps welcoming new generations of players.Check out us Blokes on our official website. https://www.rpgblokes.comJoin Our Discord Community using the following link, and continue the conversation. https://discord.gg/JyVcd8PNHnNow, it's Time to .... Slice and Dice!
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55:52
D&D Styles of Play, a Beginners Guide
In this episode of RPG Blokes, the team explores the different styles of roleplaying games, helping middle-aged newcomers find the right fit for their first adventures.Mark, John, and Barry kick things off with sandbox games, where player freedom drives the story. John champions this open style, while Barry notes the challenge of keeping players engaged. They move on to dungeon crawls and hack-and-slash games—Barry’s favourite—for their straightforward, action-packed gameplay that’s great for beginners.Survival horror gets a spotlight next, with tense decisions and brutal combat. Mark and Barry reflect on Call of Cthulhu and how fear and vulnerability shape the experience. The team then discusses mystery and investigation games, comparing narrative-heavy systems to more combat-focused ones like D&D.Finally, they touch on epic campaigns—long, character-driven arcs that D&D does best—blending combat, story, and progression.Packed with advice and personal stories, the episode helps listeners find the RPG style that suits their playstyle and group best.Check out us Blokes on our official website. https://www.rpgblokes.comJoin Our Discord Community using the following link, and continue the conversation. https://discord.gg/JyVcd8PNHnNow, it's Time to .... Slice and Dice!
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37:15
Your Dungeon Master, the DM Demystified
In this episode of RPG Blokes, the crew tackles the mysteries of being a Dungeon Master, exploring the essential role this figure plays in tabletop RPGs. Whether you're new to gaming or just curious about what goes on behind the DM screen, there's valuable insight here for everyone.Mark, Stephen, John, and Barry share their seasoned experiences, offering perspectives from both sides of the table. Stephen talks about adapting DM styles to player needs, balancing structure with spontaneity. John provides thoughtful advice on interpreting rules and storytelling, ensuring the player's enjoyment remains central. Barry, representing the player's viewpoint, outlines what qualities make an effective DM, highlighting the importance of welcoming atmospheres, rule mastery, and clear communication from both players and DMs.Packed with practical tips and engaging anecdotes, the Blokes discuss the finer points of bringing NPCs to life with distinctive voices and memorable mannerisms, as well as handling tricky scenarios like splitting the party. Above all, they stress collaboration and mutual respect as keys to a fulfilling RPG experience, empowering new players and fostering a sense of shared storytelling and camaraderie at the table.Check out us Blokes on our official website. https://www.rpgblokes.comJoin Our Discord Community using the following link, and continue the conversation. https://discord.gg/JyVcd8PNHnNow, it's Time to .... Slice and Dice!
RPG Blokes is a fortnightly podcast dedicated to introducing Dungeons and Dragons to new players, especially those who are of an older age. Whether you’re discovering RPGs for the first time or returning after years away, we’re here to demystify the game and show you how rewarding it can be. With a focus on making the hobby accessible and fun, we break down the basics, share tips for beginners, and offer a welcoming space for anyone looking to explore the world of collaborative storytelling.Join us for insightful discussions, personal stories, and practical advice that will help you dive into the game—no matter your age or experience. It’s never too late to start your next adventure with RPG Blokes! Now, Let's SLICE & DICE!
Ireland