The journey through Session Zero reaches its conclusion. In this episode, the party arrive at La Mason Taal — where they learn about the job ahead and what’s really at stake. It’s a chance to set the stage, bring the characters together with purpose, and prepare for the campaign to properly begin. For newcomers, this shows how Session Zero naturally moves from building characters and backstory into the adventure itself. By the end, our alter egos are ready, the hooks are in place, and the sto...
The road out of the mountains is anything but simple. In this episode, the party face the last of their mountain trials — finishing their fight with Shaven, overcoming encounters along the way, and finally descending into the valley where the monastery awaits. It’s a mix of combat, travel, and discovery, leading us to the gates of safety at last. For new players, this is a glimpse of how journeys unfold at the table — danger, challenge, and the promise of something new just around the corner....
The journey continues — and danger is never far away. In this episode, our newly formed party face their first real challenge together: a perilous climb, a 100ft drop, and the risks that come with pushing forward. It’s a tense mix of problem-solving, roleplay, and teamwork, all playing out as naturally as it would at any real in-person table. For new players, it’s a glimpse of how the game shifts from character setup into high-stakes adventure. For returning listeners, it’s the moment the dic...
With backstories now in place, our characters take their first steps into the world — together. In this episode, we shift from individual origins to shared purpose, as the group begins their journey in earnest. The roleplay is still low-pressure and grounded, just like a real first session, but we’re moving into party dynamics, character interplay, and setting the tone for the game ahead. If you’ve been following along, this is where things start to click — and if you’re new to the hobby, it’...
In this episode, we move from character creation into something a little more narrative. The ideas that started taking shape during character generation — backgrounds, motivations, relationships — are now being brought to life through a short roleplaying session. We’re stepping into the past. What you’re hearing is the backstory — played out as a scene — to help us discover who these characters really are before the campaign begins. It’s unscripted, low pressure, and designed to feel like an ...
In Episode 4 of our Session Zero series, we finish building our characters from the ground up. Careers are locked in, skills and talents are finalised, and equipment is sorted — but the real fun is just beginning. With the mechanics in place, we start to explore who these characters really are. Where do they come from? What drives them? What secrets are they hiding? It’s the moment where stat blocks begin to breathe, and backstories start to emerge. Whether you’re a newcomer looking to unders...
In this episode, we’re continuing character generation — getting into the finer details that bring each character to life. We’re choosing star signs, picking out talents, and assigning skills. It’s the nuts and bolts of the character sheet, but still full of laughs and light conversation. This is what it really sounds like to build your first RPG character around the table — no pressure, no jargon, just a bunch of people figuring it out together. Check out us Blokes on our official website. ...
In this episode, we’re continuing our character generation. Last time, we laid the groundwork — and the rough shape of who these people are. This time, we’re diving a bit deeper. It’s still casual and unfiltered — the sort of conversation you’d have round the table at your first proper session. If you’re new to the hobby, this is a chance to hear how characters evolve from a few lines on a sheet into something with a bit of life to it. And if you’ve been listening along, these are the moments...
Thinking of trying out tabletop roleplaying games but not sure where to start? This episode kicks off our Session Zero — a relaxed, real-time walkthrough of what it’s like to sit down for your first ever game night. We begin with character creation: building our alter egos from scratch, chatting through choices, and setting the scene for the adventure ahead. It’s unscripted, down-to-earth, and designed for anyone new to the hobby. If you’ve ever wondered how a roleplaying game actually starts...
In this season finale of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry look back on their journey through Season 1 with humour, honesty, and a healthy dose of self-deprecation. They revisit standout episodes, share behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and reflect on the show’s aim to welcome new players while still offering insight for veterans. The conversation ranges from personal highlights—like the unexpectedly popular First Session Essentials—to the highs (breaking into the UK games podcast ch...
In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the often-overlooked topic of age in tabletop gaming, challenging the idea that Dungeons & Dragons is just for the young. They share their own stories of entering or re-entering the hobby later in life and celebrate the richness older players bring to the table. The conversation highlights the camaraderie, creativity, and connection found in RPGs—regardless of age—and how mature players often add depth, patience, a...
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...
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, co...
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 appe...
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 fo...
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. Jo...
In this episode of RPG Blokes, the crew dives into the essentials of table etiquette, offering insider tips on how to enhance the group experience in tabletop RPGs. Whether you’re new to role-playing or a seasoned player, there’s something here for everyone looking to strengthen their social game at the table. The hosts cover key aspects like punctuality, respecting others’ turns, and when it’s appropriate to chime in, alongside tips on managing phone usage, asking questions, and staying enga...
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we help new players take their first big step into the world of Dungeons & Dragons—creating their first character. Where do you start? Do you need a backstory? Should you plan every detail, or just roll the dice and see what happens? The Blokes are here to guide you through the process, making character creation less intimidating and a lot more fun. We kick things off with the basics—race, class, background, and how these choices shape not just your stats bu...
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we continue our guide for new and returning players with First Session Essentials Part 2. This time, we focus on what other paraphernalia you might need to bring to the gaming table and what you can safely leave behind. We start with the essentials—yes, you’ll need dice, but don’t panic if you don’t have your own set (yet). Digital vs. paper character sheets? Both have their place, though the Blokes have strong opinions on which one actually helps you learn the ...
In this episode of RPG Blokes, we explore what new and returning players need to know before their first RPG session. This is Part 1 of a two-part series designed to ease you into the world of tabletop gaming and help you make the most of your first adventure. We dive into the importance of preparation, from understanding basic rules to deciding whether you need a rulebook at all. Do you need to study the lore or have a character fully mapped out before you begin? Not necessarily—but it can e...