Ever made a deal with a dragon? How about a dark force lurking in the shadows? In our latest RPGBOT.Podcast episode, we dive deep into the world of pacts, bargains, and contracts in

• TTRPGs RPGs like D&D and Pathfinder 2!
• Dragon Pacts in 3.5e
• Dark Gifts in Ravenloft
• Infernal Contracts in Pathfinder 2
• PLUS: Ash and Randall spill their DM crutches

Whether you're a player or DM, this episode is packed with storytelling gold and tips on how to strike a deal (without losing your soul)!

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, Ash, Tyler, and Randall dive deep into the world of pacts, bargains, and exchanges in role-playing games. They explore how these mechanics enhance both storytelling and gameplay, with examples from popular systems like Dungeons & Dragons and Pathfinder 2.

The discussion starts with Dragon Pacts from 3.5e, where sorcerers could trade spell slots for spell-like abilities granted by powerful dragons. They also examine the Dark Gifts from 5e’s Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft, which offers players powerful abilities in exchange for dark, often risky consequences.

In this insightful conversation, the hosts analyze dark bargains, supernatural gifts, and infernal contracts in both 5e and Pathfinder 2. They highlight the delicate balance of power, agency, and storytelling potential that pacts bring to the table, particularly for Warlocks and their patrons. The hosts stress the importance of giving all characters attention and encourage DMs to integrate patrons more effectively into their games.

Wrapping up, Ash, Tyler, and Randall discuss various contracts in Pathfinder 2, including Infernal Contracts, Thrun Contracts, and divine intercessions, unpacking their hidden clauses and the intricate consequences. They also share their personal DM crutches, such as relying on combat and pre-made maps, and respond to a question of the week about their biggest DM habits.

Links

D&D 3.5 Dragon Magic (affiliate link)

Takeaways

• Pacts, bargains, and exchanges in role-playing games provide opportunities for unique storytelling and character development.
• Dragon Pacts in 3.5e allowed sorcerers to trade spell slots for spell-like abilities granted by powerful dragons.
• Dark Gifts in 5e's Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft offer players unique abilities and drawbacks tied to the dark forces of the setting.
• Pacts can serve as a storytelling device, providing players with choices and consequences that shape their characters' paths.
• Pacts can introduce powerful NPCs, create story hooks, and add depth to the game world. Different types of deals and bargains add depth and complexity to the game
• DMs should balance the attention given to different characters and their backstories
• Supernatural gifts, such as blessings and charms, can provide temporary boons to players
• Contracts in Pathfinder 2 have hidden clauses and termination clauses, adding intrigue and risk
• Warlock patrons offer opportunities for role-playing and character development Pathfinder 2 offers various types of contracts, including Infernal Contracts, Supernatural Contracts, and Thrun Contracts.
• Contracts can have hidden clauses and termination clauses that add complexity and consequences to the agreements.
• Divine intercession provides boons and curses from deities, offering unique abilities and limitations.
• DM crutches can include relying on combat encounters and using pre-made maps.
• It's important for DMs to be aware of their crutches and strive for a balanced and engaging gameplay experience.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It’s a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

• Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET
• Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet
• Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social

Ash Ely

• Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
• Twitter: @GravenAshes
• YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

• @JackAmateur
• Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

• @Lzr_illuminati