Fear the Boot
By FearTheBoot.com
To listen to an audio podcast, mouse over the title and click Play. Open iTunes to download and subscribe to podcasts.
Podcast Description
Fear the Boot is an irreverent, round table discussion of tabletop role playing games. In this weekly show we debate game-related issues, offer advice for improving your game, and poke fun at the hobby. Our cast changes a little from show to show, but we always assemble a group of dynamic individuals with divergent views, guaranteeing you will hear several perspectives on everything we discuss.
| Name | Description | Released | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Episode 258 – adapting to player styles | * (0:24) Managing different player styles as a Game Master through such approaches as simultaneous solutions, varying your approach to the game, and setting forth expectations about how the game will go. Check yo self before ya wreck yo self (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5aAbOgdbTbM), by understanding your character's likely impact on the group. * (40:29) When the GM walks away. The differences between managing rules disputes in RPGs and board games. What to do if the Game Master quits the game over a point of contention. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Pat, Wayne For those of you interested in following our "grand experiment" campaign, you can find the forum areas here (http://www.feartheboot.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=62). | 2/15/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
2 |
Episode 257 – a not-so-grand experiment | * (0:44) It feels good to be back, though Chris is sorry for calling Chad names. * (3:25) A big thanks to Wizards of the Coast columnist, Tracy Hurley, for mentioning us in an article on Gamer Resolutions (http://www.wizards.com/DnD/Article.aspx?x=dnd/4news/20120120)! * (4:56) At Fear the Con V (http://www.fearthecon.com), Chris Ings will be running a Bloodname tournament (http://www.conplanner.com/ActivityView.aspx?c=71&a=590) for the surname, Badass. * (8:22) Announcing the contestants for the Power 16 III! Voting will start in a few weeks. * (14:05) Introducing an online game the hosts will be playing using Pathfinder rules and the Forgotten Realms setting. We'll be using this to help us understand each other's game styles and (more importantly) try to apply our own ideas to build and maintain a game. Whether this succeeds or fails, we hope it will serve as a great object lesson. * (18:26) To start things off, Johann asks some questions about the intended level curve of the game, which leads Dan to ask why that's important to his character. * (34:28) Bringing together the cultures of different gaming groups and merging them into a new, mutually enjoyable culture. * (37:10) An invitation to the audience to not only observe but also participate in our little experiment. * (38:46) Lacking the time to develop our next topic, we spin down the episode. However, we kept recording, so Chad's question gets a thorough exploration in the episode coming next week! Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Pat, Wayne | 2/8/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
3 |
Episode 256 – GMing styles | * (0:48) Fear the Boot + Pat - (Dan + Dan's job) = episode 256 * (1:36) Wayne will be posting his first game for Fear the Con V (http://www.fearthecon.com) this Friday. If you're interested in passing out flyers or hanging them up in your local game store, you can download them here (http://www.feartheboot.com/ftb/resources/ftcv_ad.pdf). * (6:21) Our Old Republic guild, House Nachash, is still going strong. You can find details on our forum (http://www.feartheboot.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=56). * (7:33) Poop sock? * (10:11) Pat and his peach cider. * (12:28) Resuming an RPG campaign after a long break. Using the break as an opportunity for taking stock of what's working, revising where needed. Easing back in. Keeping the game alive through outside conversation, or at least keeping the group in contact through a filler game. The pitfalls when coming back, including social distractions and forgetting what was going on. * (36:09) How to get the most out of different GMing styles. Appreciating the distinctions and adapting your play-style to get the most from your Game Master. Evaluating your GM style. How to get the most honest feedback from your players. Hosts: Chris, John, Karla, Pat, Wayne | 2/1/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
4 |
Bonus Episode 42 – naughty or nice to Chris | * (0:12) Johann is an audio freak of nature. * (1:17) Introducing our new game, Naughty or Nice to Chris. We setup the background topic, explain the rules, and have an tangent on "sentient" versus "sapient". * (7:42) Chris restarts the episode. I'm not sure why, but he's in control. * (9:12) We discuss player contribution to the game. To what extent should players be allowed to add things to the game -- even if they seem out of place -- for the sake of their own enjoyment? We start by jumping back to the contributions that break immersion for each of us. The show goes completely off the ranch from there, and I don't think we ever answered the original question. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Johann, Pat, Wayne | 1/11/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
5 |
Episode 255 – after a player character death | * (0:31) A big thanks to Luna for the Secret Santa gift! You can see a scan of it here (http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6657280921_ebc623aa65_z.jpg) and her online gallery here (http://nekoluna.deviantart.com). We also talk about some original Battletech art we have. * (4:44) Handling the logistics of a PC death. We don't debate whether characters ought to die but instead how to keep that person involved, manage the mood around the table, and minimize story disruption. * (22:14) Taking advantage of the unexpected moments of great story and RP that happen during a game, without trying to squeeze them for too much. * (28:45) Chad and modules. Nature takes its course. * (39:30) Managing player morale during the ebb and flow of a game. * (45:34) The greatest game you've never played: Hot Lead (http://www.amazon.com/Hot-Lead-Skirmish-Miniatures-Rules/dp/1556342322/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325998284&sr=8-1)! Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Johann, Pat, Wayne | 1/7/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
6 |
Bonus Episode 41 – things we’ve never done | I apologize in advance for this episode. It was a bonus show recorded on New Years Eve, and nature pretty much just took its course. I have another (regular) episode in the hopper, which I will release later this week to make up for missing last week completely and then off-loading this on you today. Once we get coherent (16:33), the topic is things we've not been able to do yet in our gaming career but really want to someday. Hosts: Beth, Chad, Dan, John, Pat FAIR WARNING: This episodes is quite a bit more crass and directionless than our normal episodes. | 1/2/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
7 |
Episode 254 – social events | * (1:52) Wayne tries to one-up John by rolling a method 0.25 character. * (3:52) Dan offers Chris some unsolicited PR advice. * (5:10) Following a suggestion from forum user, Concise Locket, we discuss going outside of the game-provided mechanics to resolve actions within a game. How other metaphors can enhance or distract from the game, and some tips for making them blend. * (21:57) Giving life and meaning to social events -- such as parties or banquets -- in an RPG. Revealing scene, making memorable NPCs, and progressing plot through the event. The difference between social events triggered by player action versus GM decree. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, John, Pat, Wayne (Wayne's future sorcerer: STR 16, DEX 10, CON 13, INT 11, WIS 13, CHA 15) | 12/21/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
8 |
Episode 253 – significant others | * (0:29) You, me, them, us, and other difficult pronouns. * (1:10) Fear the Con 5 registration is still up and running (http://www.fearthecon.com/) quite nicely. * (1:32) An invitation to our Old Republic guild (http://feartheboot.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=56&t=14715). * (2:18) Method 0.5 character creation meets John's bard. * (4:02) Pat goes for Husband of the Year with his (properly placed) priorities regarding Star Wars: The Old Republic. Also featuring the car story and fish story! * (15:37) Gaming with significant others. How bringing that special someone into a game can greatly benefit or drag down the experience. We also present some strategies for getting the most out of it while preparing for potential pitfalls. This leads into the romance and drama of Battletech. Hosts: Beth, Dan, John, Karla (John's future bard: STR 11, DEX 10, CON 15, INT 13, WIS 10, CHA 9) | 12/14/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
9 |
Interview Episode 21 – jim pinto | * (0:29) What jim's been up to since we last talked with him. You can find his current blog at Post World Games (http://postworldgames.com/). * (3:34) jim must defend his name, Y (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Y#Orthographic_confusion_with_the_letter_thorn), and W (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/W#History). * (6:05) Pat goes for Father of the Year by taking a break from World of Warcraft to devastate his kid in a family game. * (9:43) Giving games the right degree of substance and meaning, without making them overly poignant. * (18:42) The role of the GM, specifically as it's been taught (albeit unintentionally) by the legacy of D&D. First-person versus third-person roleplayers. On a side note, this episode was recorded when Penny Arcade's series, The Conflux, was only a few strips in. * (29:53) The "second Renaissance" of roleplaying games. Also the relationship and perception driven model preferred by many newer games. * (41:34) The seven types of gamers. * (51:32) The important synergy between designers and marketers that's often missing from game development. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Pat, Wayne Guests: jim pinto | 12/8/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
10 |
Episode 252 – knowing it all | * (0:30) Dan's first two games for Fear the Con V (http://www.fearthecon.com) have been posted. Be sure to create or sign up for anything that interests you! * (1:39) Chad and Pat's horrifying idea for episode 300. * (7:04) Yet again, a "minor" topic unexpectedly dominates the show! Wayne's opportunity to defend his bard against the insults made in last episode turns into... * (13:57) ...a discussion on knowledge skills that reveal hidden or plot-important information. We kick around whether to include them at all, how to let them be useful without breaking the game, and the open communication the GM and player ought to have during character creation. * (38:43) The happy accidents of gaming, when unexpected actions of the player or rolls of the dice make the game better than the GM planned. How to create room for such events and capitalize on them when they occur. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Pat, Wayne | 11/30/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
11 |
Episode 251 – shopping | * (0:31) If you’re interested in playing the Old Republic MMO, Fear the Boot has a guild forming on the official game site. You can see details and sign up to run with us here (http://www.swtor.com/guilds/162022/house-nachash)! * (3:12) Chris is writing Skies of Glass serial fiction (http://www.skiesofglass.com/). * (4:37) We give Pat a chance to prep for Beth coming onto Fear the Boot. * (6:23) John gives an update on Bloodmoon Goblins (http://www.bloodmoongoblins.com). This leads to a discussion about collaborating with other people during system or setting design, and how that can apply even to Game Masters running a well-established game. * (13:47) Handling shopping in an RPG. Various approaches to handling it without interrupting the flow of the game. How to handle shopkeeper inventory, character inventory, and item availability. Information on the Booter calls Chad mentioned can be found here (http://feartheboot.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=14342). * (45:52) Why Chad feels his character won't work in the absurd game we're contemplating. Hosts: Chad, Dan, John, Pat | 11/17/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
12 |
Episode 250 – campaign-level play | * (0:47) The website for Fear the Con 5 (http://www.fearthecon.com/) is up and ready for you to start creating and joining games! If you’re looking to split a ride or room, be sure to check the thread on our forums (http://feartheboot.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=55&t=14145) where people are working out those arrangements. * (1:27) Fear the Boot is co-sponsoring a cruise through Gamer Adventures (http://www.gameradventures.com/caribbean.htm) on March 24 through April 1, 2012, and we hope you’ll join us. * (2:51) How to approach bridge games, meaning the games that fall between major plot points or heavy action, in which character advancement, bookkeeping, or roleplaying dominate the session. Some approaches for tuning them to your group's taste and recognizing the opportunities they present. * (18:43) Handling large scale games. Determining what's important to deal with in detail versus abstracting out, how to keep track of resources, divvy up paperwork, and make major NPCs memorable. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, John, Wayne | 11/9/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
13 |
Episode 249 – caster supremacy | You can find a transcript of this show here (http://subscriptorium.com/540/2samples/1ftb)! * (0:59) An extremely deep, philosophical, scholarly debate over the hottest chick on Star Trek. * (13:07) Using Wheel of Time and Lord of the Rings as a jumping off point for a discussion on "upward" versus "downward" fantasy and which trope more accurately describes the average fantasy campaign. Side topics include high and low fantasy, the role of equipment, and the absurdity of most settings' economies. * (26:12) A reflection on the ridiculousness of 'Mechs as viable combat machines juxtaposed against how just plain awesome they are to use in a game. * (30:32) Dealing with "caster supremacy". Specifically, the idea that certain types of casters are significantly more powerful than non-casting classes in D&D 3.0, D&D 3.5, and Pathfinder. Suggestions for keeping them in balance through gentleman's rules, power reductions to casters, or power increases to non-casters. * (59:36) The website for Fear the Con 5 (http://www.fearthecon.com/) is up and ready for you to create and join games! If you're looking to split a ride or room, be sure to check the thread on our forums (http://feartheboot.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=55&t=14145) where people are working out those arrangements. Hosts: Johann, John, Pat, Wayne | 11/1/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
14 |
Episode 248 – micro-focus | You can find a transcript of this show here (http://subscriptorium.com/528/2samples/1ftb)! * (2:09) The website for Fear the Con 5 (http://www.fearthecon.com) is up and ready for you to start creating and joining games! If you're looking to split a ride or room, be sure to check the thread on our forums (http://feartheboot.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=55&t=14145) where people are working out those arrangements. * (7:44) Zingers. What more can be said? They also talk about Halloween candy, costumes, and trick-or-treating. * (23:04) Advice for GMs that need to run rude, hateful, or bigoted NPCs. How to keep such characters believable without crossing any lines your group can't stomach. * (38:47) Adding detail to the smaller parts of the game which often get ignored as the group focuses on the big picture. In case you're not familiar with it, here's an explanation of Chekhov's Gun (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chekov%27s_gun). Hosts: Chad, Chris, John, Pat | 10/26/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
15 |
Interview Episode 20 – Erik Mona | You can find a transcript of this show here (http://subscriptorium.com/518/2samples/1ftb)! * (0:24) Introducing guest host, Willie. * (0:49) Introducing Erik Mona. * (1:34) The size, state, and explosive growth of the Pathfinder game and Pathfinder Society. * (3:23) Erik's more thorough introduction, including his resume in the gaming industry. * (6:35) We ask Erik to explain exactly what the job title of "publisher" means and what specific roles he fills at Paizo. * (9:10) How past experience with the RPGA and Living campaigns affected the formulation of the Pathfinder Society. * (22:14) An after-school D&D club in 1983, how Erik's parents fought to get him in, and how it affected the trajectory of his life. * (30:44) Erik's take on Pathfinder being called "D&D 3.75". We also talk about the possibility of a sequel edition. * (36:09) The upcoming Pathfinder Beginner Box. You can find details and see the unboxing video on their site (http://paizo.com/beginnerbox). We also talk about the market viability of box set products in general. * (50:13) The history, purpose, and future intentions for the Paizo online store. * (56:58) Future projects coming up at Paizo, including the Pathfinder Battles miniatures. Hosts: Chad, Dan, Johann, Wayne, Willie Guests: Erik Mona | 10/20/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
16 |
Episode 247 – not overwhelming a new gamer | You can find a transcript of this show here (http://subscriptorium.com/509/2samples/1ftb)! * (0:30) Welcoming Adam from Kicked in the Dicebags (http://kickedinthedicebags.libsyn.com/). * (1:40) The March of Dimes charity auction -- with prizes sponsored by Gnome Stew (http://www.gnomestew.com/) -- is still in progress. Be sure to get in your bids (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200660282647)! * (2:03) Show transcripts are still being made for our episodes. Links will be given a few days after each episode releases. * (2:21) The site for Fear the Con 5 is live! Get signed up and join us in St. Louis in May of 2012 (http://www.conplanner.com/fearthecon5)! * (5:28) Custom fangs have become too cheap for Wayne's taste. * (7:09) The loss of a dropship in our Battletech game serves as the catalyst for a discussion on defeat in a roleplaying game. We talk about its capacity for adding drama, realism, and emotion to the game, while conversely being able to discourage or drain the players. * (20:00) Wayne commenting on some old gaming notes (http://www.feartheboot.com/ftb/wp-content/uploads/resources/209_WhatsReallyGoingOn.pdf) leads into Dan describing the collection of documents he typically uses when running a game. With our usual disclaimer for potentially offensive content, here is a link (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTwtAJt1JAs) to the pimp's prayer. * (26:20) Getting a brand new player up to speed on the hobby of roleplaying, their first setting, and a system -- without overwhelming them in the process. * (52:16) The video game giveaway will be ending on October 23rd with the winners drawn on October 24th, so this is your last chance to get entered (http://feartheboot.com/giveaway.aspx). Hosts: Adam, Chad, Dan, John, Pat, Wayne | 10/12/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
17 |
Interview Episode 19 – Joe Wetzel and Keith Curtis | You can find a transcript of this show here (http://subscriptorium.com/493/2samples/1ftb)! * (0:35) Wayne tries to hijack the show to talk about Superman. You know what that means: we talk about Batman instead! The blog post on the hosting arrangement can be found here (http://www.feartheboot.com/ftb/index.php/archives/2296). * (3:07) Alex (aka Lizard Farmer) is creating transcripts of the show. Check the show notes a few days after each episode releases for a link to the transcript. An explanation of his idea can be found on our forums (http://feartheboot.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=13953). * (5:39) Our next March of Dimes charity auction has kicked off (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200660282647)! Prizes for this auction are being provided by the Gnome Stew (http://www.gnomestew.com/) website. As with the previous auctions, 100% of the funds raised will go to the March of Dimes. * (8:06) Introducing Joe Wetzel and Keith Curtis! Joe has been developing Hexographer (http://www.hexographer.com/), Dungeonographer (http://www.dungeonographer.com/), and DungeonMorph Dice (http://www.dungeonmorphs.com/). Keith's work can be found on his portfolio site (http://www.kacurtis.com/) or Bloodmoon Goblins (http://www.bloodmoongoblins.com). * (12:02) The importance of maps for creating scale, consistency, fairness, and depth. * (26:34) How to build and fill in a map when you're starting with nothing. The title Joe mentions is Dawn of Worlds (http://www.clanwebsite.org/games/rpg/Dawn_of_Worlds_game_1_0Final.pdf). * (35:10) Filling in the details when you have a map with major locations already set but nothing in mind to occupy the gaps between. * (40:06) A quick survey of climatology and how different climate zones form on a planet. The factors that figure into such estimations and just how important they ought to be when designing your game world. * (52:48) Understanding scale when designing an area, particularly when you're contemplating volume as opposed to surface area. * (57:20) The projects Joe and Keith are working on right now. Joe's work -- including things not already linked in the show notes -- can generally be found on Inkwell Ideas (http://inkwellideas.com/gamemaster-advice/when-characters-die/). * (1:03:27) The video game giveaway (http://feartheboot.com/giveaway.aspx) is still on, so be sure to get entered if you haven't already! Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Karla, Wayne Guests: Joe Wetzel, Keith Curtis | 10/5/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
18 |
Interview Episode 18 – Kenneth Hite | You can find a transcript of this show here (http://subscriptorium.com/477/2samples/1ftb)! * (0:37) Introducing Ken Hite (http://princeofcairo.livejournal.com/). * (1:39) Contrary to what I said in the episode, This Just In...From Gen Con! is still editing the show I guested on. I'll post a link here as soon as it's ready to go. * (1:54) Our video game giveaway is still in progress. Be sure to get entered (http://feartheboot.com/giveaway.aspx)! * (2:21) Wayne presents Dan with a gift from Brian. A big "Thank you!" from Dan for taking the time to send us the note and chainmail dicebag! * (3:42) We kick off the interview by asking Ken about his rather unusual education and how it affects his work in the game industry. * (6:51) Ken gives us his observations on the state of RPGs. He also answers some questions about the rise of story-driven games. * (15:19) A question about how Ken got started in GURPS leads to a discussion of professionalism (or more accurately, the lack thereof) in the RPG industry. * (23:05) Ken begins settling long-running FtB marital disputes. Chris kicks this one off with the GM screen, and then Dan asks about social mechanics. Fortunately, Chris gives this some genuine purpose by questioning whether the way a person runs games affects how they write them. * (30:54) Dan asks Ken for some tips on running horror games. * (41:43) Following the suggestion of Ryan Dancey, we begin The Ken Hite Three Word Game! * (48:49) Ken's past, current, and upcoming work (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenneth_Hite), including Night's Black Agents (http://www.pelgranepress.com/?p=1081) and Star Trek. Hosts: Chris, Dan, John, Pat, Wayne Guest: Kenneth Hite | 9/28/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
19 |
Episode 246 – Group Design | You can find a transcript of this show here (http://subscriptorium.com/470/2samples/1ftb)! * (0:30) Happy birthday to Chris! * (1:38) John announces the closing of Bloodmoon Goblins' fundraiser and explains where things are headed next. * (2:21) Quick updates on GAME convention (http://springfieldgame.com/) and Fear the Con 5. * (2:39) FlatCon (http://www.flatcon.com) is coming up on October 21-23, 2011 in Bloomington, IL. All proceeds from the convention are donated to the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life (http://www.relayforlife.org/). * (3:15) Fear the Boot is giving away some free games, thanks to Tex! If you'd like to enter for any of the titles mentioned, you can do so here (http://www.feartheboot.com/giveaway.aspx). * (7:31) The process of picking a system and setting when your group is starting a new campaign. How to balance everyone's interests. Whether the GM should be able to make a take-it-or-leave-it pitch. * (31:14) Collaboration in an established setting. How to get the players involved and help them feel like they own a part of the game world without contradicting what's in the books. * (38:08) Revisiting the group template with some new and changed perspectives. Explaining what it is, why it's important, and how to build one. Hosts: Dan, John, Pat, Wayne | 9/22/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
20 |
Bonus Episode 40 – Chris and the Crimson Pumpkin | DISCLAIMER: While profanities were censored from this episode, the subject matter is still a bit more crass than what Fear the Boot normally covers. Personal discretion is advised. * (0:00) A bonus episode disclaimer, followed by an explanation of why they don't really work. * (2:23) Explaining the so-called crimson (or scarlet) pumpkin. You can find one here (http://media.washtimes.com/media/image/2008/10/15/20081014-224243-pic-543593599_s640x372.jpg?26ac72c3d5ba7af824d05ae3e08a4eb8015fee34), in case you live near Chris. * (4:47) Exhibit A: Chris' first time out drinking. * (12:09) Exhibit B: Chris and the character scars. * (18:32) Exhibit C: Master Threeballs and the jocks' junk. Hosts: Chris, Dan, John, Pat, Wayne | 9/14/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
21 |
Episode 245 – small topic round-up | * (0:30) John provides an update on the still-running Bloodmoon Goblins Kickstarter (http://www.bloodmoongoblins.com/). * (2:05) Fear the Boot still plans on attending the GAME Convention (http://springfieldgame.com/index.html) in Springfield, Missouri, October 7 - 9, 2011. * (2:42) If you're interested in playing the Old Republic MMO, Fear the Boot has a guild already forming on the official game site. You can see details and sign up to run with us here (http://www.swtor.com/guilds/162022/house-nachash)! * (5:00) Why every roleplaying game should come with a pronunciation guide for all of its proper nouns. * (10:42) Getting people in your gaming group to step up and take leadership roles in the party, particularly when they're not naturally dominating. The distinction between explicit and implicit leaders and how to work with both. * (24:49) Chris reflects on his rant from the last episode and goes on to tell us a story about his childhood. * (26:47) Rewarding players for doing extra prep or post-game work. * (37:06) Helping someone create a character for a setting they've never played in. Hosts: Chris, Dan, John, Pat, Wayne | 9/6/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
22 |
Episode 244 – invasion stories, continued | * (0:24) Imagining an insufficient universe. * (3:22) Pat has a gift for Wayne's birthday. This leads to a conversation about comic collections, older comic storylines, and related tangents. * (7:41) John's Bloodmoon Goblins Kickstarter (http://www.bloodmoongoblins.com/) is still going strong and accepting donations, pre-orders, and other reward purchases! * (8:35) With Wayne's story concluded, Chris has launched a new series of serial fiction on the Skies of Glass website (http://www.skiesofglass.com/). * (10:28) Revisiting invasion stories to pick up some discussion threads we either missed or didn't explore sufficiently in the prior show. We start off with invaders that lack depth because they're more like a force of nature than a hostile culture. * (14:34) When the invasion is a backdrop as opposed to the central plot. The relationship between setting and story, and the inevitable bleed between the two. * (17:09) Playing as the invader instead of the invaded. Determining whether the characters agree with the invasion or oppose it, and keeping the game going either way. * (33:27) Narrating the invasion event. Working out the pacing in a way that makes sense for your campaign. Educating your players about the two sides, particularly when the game is not based on a well-known setting or historical event. Hosts: Chris, Dan, Johann, Pat, Wayne | 8/31/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
23 |
Interview Episode 17 – Ryan Dancey | * (0:36) John's Bloodmoon Goblins Kickstarter (http://www.bloodmoongoblins.com/) is still up and running. John has also expressed his willingness to stay up and run games for people in timezones different than our own. * (1:55) Introducing (or reintroducing) Ryan Dancey. * (7:16) Ryan has been writing a series of columns for EN World. The links are provided at the end of the show notes. * (7:44) Some information on the MMO he's currently helping develop, including an explanation of what he means by a "sandbox game", when used in the context of online play. * (14:57) Chris harkens back to a promo item he received at the D&D Third Edition release party. This leads into some questions about the overwhelming success of the OGL, even in the face of newer editions of D&D. * (24:50) Revisiting Ryan's previous list of predictions. We also get a list of new predictions. * (31:14) Some theories about the shifting demographics of gamers and their interests, using Gen Con 2011 as an anecdotal jumping-off point. * (49:21) The lack of a WotC announcement at Gen Con raises some questions and also serves as a reminder of just how small the industry is. Hosts: Chris, Dan, John, Pat Guest: Ryan Dancey http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/299860-4-hours-w-rsd-who-am-i.html (http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/299860-4-hours-w-rsd-who-am-i.html) http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/301385-4-hours-w-rsd-who-sitting-your-table.html (http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/301385-4-hours-w-rsd-who-sitting-your-table.html) http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/302913-4-hours-w-rsd-realtime.html (http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/302913-4-hours-w-rsd-realtime.html) http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/304716-4-hours-w-rsd-take-note.html (http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/304716-4-hours-w-rsd-take-note.html) http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/306026-4-hours-w-rsd-lets-have-flamewar.html (http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/306026-4-hours-w-rsd-lets-have-flamewar.html) http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/308179-4-hours-w-rsd-get-some-feedback.html (http://www.enworld.org/forum/columns/308179-4-hours-w-rsd-get-some-feedback.html) | 8/24/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
24 |
Episode 243 – invasion stories | * (0:52) On October 7 -9, 2011, Fear the Boot will be attending the GAME convention in Springfield, MO (http://springfieldgame.com/). We hope some of you can join us! This leads to reminiscing about Gorf (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorf) and Logo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logo_%28programming_language%29). * (7:28) If you're playing Champions Online, consider joining the Fear the Boot guild, Awkward Confessors. You can find out more on the forums (http://www.feartheboot.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=13348). My essay on MMOs can be found here (http://www.feartheboot.com/ftb/index.php/archives/830). * (11:17) Dan delivers a rant entitled, "Dammit, put that game down!" * (16:57) Be sure to visit John's Bloodmoon Goblins site (http://www.bloodmoongoblins.com/), watch the promo video, and consider making a donation toward the effort. * (17:51) Running a game where invasion is the primary plot line or setting feature. Creating stories that are believable, yet still offer compelling opportunities for player success. Starting the invasion, defining the invaders, and setting goals for the protagonists. Drawing from real world history for inspiration. Handling the pacing issues that can be caused by a resistance that builds momentum over a long period of time. Hosts: Chris, Dan, Karla, Wayne | 8/17/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
25 |
Bonus Episode 39 – random pre Gen Con silliness | DISCLAIMER: While profanities were censored from this episode, the subject matter is still a bit more crass than what Fear the Boot normally covers. Personal discretion is advised. * (0:47) Why we're doing a bonus episode, and Pat's favorite (non-existent) Care Bears. * (1:34) Introducing Bloodmoon Goblins, a Pathfinder supplement John is creating. He needs our help funding it, so you can find the donation site, promo video, and reward options on his Kickstarter site (http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bloodmoon/bloodmoon-goblins)! * (7:58) Pat and Dan trade gifts (though Dan's ends up with John). This leads into a variety of stories that were probably best left untold. * (19:10) Pat learns about the origin and history of the Bellamy salute (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bellamy_salute). * (22:08) The host division over the upcoming Rise of the Planet of the Apes movie. ("Upcoming" when this was recorded, now in theaters.) * (33:16) Conjecture about our weekly D&D campaign, whether it's about to die, and (if that happens) what opportunities that presents for the show. * (35:57) Two upcoming charity auctions. Hosts: Dan, John, Pat, Wayne | 8/15/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
26 |
Episode 242 – bringing dungeons to life | * (0:44) Some details on the progress and release schedule for Mikey Mason's (http://www.mikeymason.com/) new album, Impotent Nerd Rage. * (4:48) Integrating a comedic character in a serious campaign, without that character disrupting the flow and feel of the game. The actual play Wayne's involved in is Knights of Reignsborough (http://ideologyofmadness.spookyouthouse.com/archives/category/columns/knights-of-reignsborough). * (17:59) Kyle sends in a question related to the series we did on dungeon design (here's part 1 (http://www.feartheboot.com/ftb/index.php/archives/1024) and part 2 (http://www.feartheboot.com/ftb/index.php/archives/1026), for those of you that missed them), asking how to take a dungeon you've already designed and bring it to life. How do you make the place feel exciting and interesting as you describe the trek through countless rooms and corridors? * (58:29) Be sure to keep up with This Just In...From Gen Con! (http://thisjustinfromgencon.com/) for convention coverage and at least one episode that will feature Fear the Boot. Hosts: Dan, Johann, Mikey, Pat, Wayne | 8/3/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
27 |
Epiosde 241 – juggling campaigns | * (1:13) Fear the Boot is co-sponsoring a cruise through Gamer Adventures (http://www.gameradventures.com/caribbean.htm) on March 24 through April 1, 2012, and we hope you'll join us. * (3:03) Do geeks have an unusual habit of raging against the things they love the most, simply out of perfectionist zeal? * (14:11) Being involved in multiple campaigns at once. How to keep your characters and plots separate. How similarities between the two campaigns can both help and hurt. * (40:52) Some updates on Fear the Con 5. It will occur in early May instead of March. We'll be moving to more conveniently located facilities (http://www.marylandheights.com/index.aspx?page=96). And we're also happy to welcome Danger Brewery as our new beer providers! Hosts: Chad, Dan, Pat, Wayne | 7/26/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
28 |
Episode 240 – zero to published, part 2 | * (1:26) Congratulating Atomic Array (http://atomicarray.com/) and Kicked in the Dicebags (http://kickedinthedicebags.libsyn.com/) on their ENnie nominations. This leads into a question about the role awards play in consumer decision-making versus content producers simply enjoying the recognition. * (11:43) The guests pay more attention to the outline than the regular hosts do. * (12:53) Art, layout, and page design. How they help sell your product. Some legal considerations you need to work out with an artist so it's clear who owns what. The best ways to compensate your artists, particularly when you're on a tight budget. * (24:45) Funding the project. Using your own money, the patronage model, or websites such as Kickstarter. How to get other people involved in supporting your work and rewarding them for their investment. Building a budget for your product. * (35:22) Marketing your game. How to build it into the product right from the get-go. Building and utilizing a fan base to help evangelize. Keeping people excited and rewarding them for their effort. * (53:34) Options for getting published, whether electronically or in print. * (57:36) A final thanks to Ed and Derek. You can hear more of Ed on Atomic Array (http://atomicarray.com/) or War Pig Radio (http://www.warpigradio.com/). You can hear more of Derek on his podcast, The Established Facts (http://theestablishedfacts.blogspot.com/) (referred to as Casting Robot during the show). And be sure to take a look at the Palegain setting (http://www.palegainproject.com/) and consider helping out his Kickstarter project (http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/363836098/palegain-born)! Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Derek, Ed, Pat, Wayne | 7/19/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
29 |
Episode 239 – zero to published, part 1 | * (0:29) Introducing our guest hosts, Derek and Ed. * (2:52) Chris gives a shoutout to his nephew who's landed the leading role in Highlander: The Musical. If you're interested in learning more, you can check out their website (http://www.highlanderthemusical.com/). The reason Split Second needs a musical (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQvMWD-_Nfo) (some NSFW language). * (9:26) With Gen Con coming up soon, don't forget to subscribe to This Just In...From Gen Con! (http://thisjustinfromgencon.com/) for some great media coverage. And if you'll be in attendance, be sure to get signed up for the TOFTBCH network (http://www.conplanner.com/ConventionHome.aspx?c=53) and join us throughout the con for meals and pick-up games. * (10:15) The writing process. Translating your ideas and notes into a usable, well-organized document that's fit for publication. Finding good editors -- including those that have experience in the RPG industry -- and building a community of people that can help you. * (28:00) The importance of playtesting to shake out the problems in your game. Also, the importance of getting playtesters outside of your usual circle of friends, and ways to find strangers that will test the game. * (34:11) Getting proper licensing to use established systems or settings. * (38:33) Additional legal concerns, including forming a company, figuring out your taxes, and protecting your work by copyright. The government website I recommended can be found here (http://www.copyright.gov). * (49:48) Some final words of warning and encouragement before we close out part 1 of this series. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Derek, Ed, Pat, Wayne | 7/13/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
30 |
Episode 238 – collaborating on antagonists | * (0:31) Welcoming our guest host, Michael, to Fear the Boot! * (1:06) Fear the Boot will be sponsoring This Just In...From Gen Con! (http://thisjustinfromgencon.com/) during the 2011 convention. Be sure to catch that show for some excellent convention coverage. * (1:30) The Con Planner site is now ready to go for our activities at Gen Con. Be sure to sign up if you want to be kept in the loop on the games and social activities we'll be doing during the con. All you need to do is visit this link (http://www.conplanner.com/ConventionHome.aspx?c=53), go to the Ticketing area to create an attendee, and make sure your profile includes a cell phone number for texting purposes. If you have any questions, write to the email address listed on the site (http://www.conplanner.com/ConventionHome.aspx?c=53). * (2:00) Fear the Boot is now a proud member of the Stitcher audio network. Be sure to stop by their site (http://www.stitcher.com/listen.php?fid=16698), see if their app is something that interests you, and give us a positive review so others can find us! * (3:52) Some background on Michael and the tabletop gaming scene in Japan. * (6:36) The double-edged sword of D&D as the most recognizable title in our hobby. Many of us play it and enjoy it, but it can also conjure up negative stereotypes among non-gamers, leading us to distance ourselves from the game. * (22:03) Collaborative design of a roleplaying game's antagonists. Letting the players work together to build the villains, trading off some level of control for added buy-in. How to keep the plot exciting despite the meta-game, player knowledge of the group's enemies. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Michael, Pat, Wayne | 7/6/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
31 |
Episode 237 – picking up the mantle | * (0:30) Pointless trivia about Wayne's introduction on each episode and Chris' struggles with Left for Dead 2. * (5:27) Fear the Boot will be at Gen Con 2011 with more events organized through our illustrious TOFTBCH network. Expect details to follow in the next episode! We're also sponsoring This Just In...From Gen Con! (http://thisjustinfromgencon.com/) which will be providing onsite coverage throughout the con. * (9:07) Dan versus restaurant birthday celebrations. * (20:07) Taking over a roleplaying game when the original Game Master steps down or leaves the group. Some techniques for making the transition work, and the adjusted expectations players need to have when someone else is running a pre-existing game. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Pat, Wayne | 6/29/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
32 |
Episode 236 – rewarding player characters | * (0:28) Straightening out our seating arrangement. * (3:00) The upcoming reset and renumbering of DC comics. Why we individually think it's a good idea, bad idea, or mixed bag. * (14:10) Rewarding the player characters in your RPG. We start by exploring the various ways of rewarding them such as roleplaying opportunities, personal goals, micro perks, gear, and stat advancement. * (32:46) An intermission where we ponder why GMs don't get rewards. * (39:56) The best practices for handing out PC rewards, keeping them fair, and keeping them from later coming back to bite you in the butt. Hosts: Chad, Dan, Pat, Wayne | 6/21/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
33 |
Episode 235 – gaming with family | * (0:55) Fear the Boot and female hosts. * (2:49) Dan's first awkward confession, plus Unicron, Arcee, and a seven-inch Voltron. * (6:51) Pat rages against 3D movies, and the rest of us pretty much agree. * (12:51) After a brilliant segue, Pat gives his take on the movie incarnations of Mystique. * (16:47) Gaming as your family expands. Not gaming with children (as we discussed in episode 207), but rather gaming when children or spouses are around, require regular attention, and so forth. We look at how we've managed to make gaming work as our lives mature by tweaking our expectations and game execution. Hosts: Dan, Karla, Pat, Wayne | 6/14/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
34 |
Episode 234 – themes | * (0:30) Battletech, the map case, and why we're hesitant to let certain people play characters of another gender. * (5:24) The start of the next March of Dimes charity auction. You have 10 days to bid on a complete Dresden Files set with a GM book, several player books, and plenty of Fudge dice (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200617994099). The books will all be signed by Fred Hicks, Rob Donoghue, and the Fear the Boot hosts. If you wish to make a donation apart from the auction, you can do so here (http://www.marchforbabies.org/personal_page.asp?pp=2892571&ct=4&si=&w=4518033&u=rainagarcia). * (8:08) Themes we'd like to see more often -- or never again -- in roleplaying games. Topics discussed include romance, evil, mercenaries, redemption, addiction, friendship, moral complexity, tragic endings, ambiguous endings, discovery, world context, and the single-dimension quest. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Pat, Wayne | 6/8/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
35 |
Episode 233 – organized play | * (0:30) The first auction is over! The second auction will be for a collection of Dresden File books, signed by Fred Hicks, Rob Donoghue, and the FtB cast. It will start when episode 234 drops next week. * (5:10) Free RPG Day is coming up on June 18th. Chris offers a bring-a-friend idea to help use this day to get new people into the hobby instead of just spreading products around people that already play RPGs. * (11:26) A stage play within a game got us thinking a little more about narrative combat. * (25:46) Willingly declaring failure during the course of narration, whether as the GM or a player. The concern about negatively impacting the rest of the party. * (33:37) A quick look at organized play. What you can expect to get from it, and some tips on getting started. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Pat, Wayne | 6/1/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
36 |
Episode 232 – narrative combat | * (0:41) The first March of Dimes charity auction is still in progress (http://cgi.ebay.com/Fear-Boot-charity-auction-/200609605881?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2eb543a8f9). You have a few days left to get your bid in! * (1:35) Using narration instead of rules to resolve combat. Being fair without dice to serve as an arbiter. How to make it work without the players feeling cheated by the outcome. * (39:01) Dealing with players that have the unusual, singular obsession of seeing their characters destroyed. Hosts: Chad, Dan, Pat, Wayne | 5/24/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
37 |
Episode 231, lying part 2 | * (0:37) Bubba mows his lawn in the middle of the night. We won't call him, but we contemplate calling the D&D help hotline. In case you've never heard of it, here are some highlights from the Butterball turkey hotline (http://www.snopes.com/holidays/thanksgiving/hotline.asp). * (4:18) Kicking off the March of Dimes charity auction with a chance to set the topic, request an interview, and guest on an episode of Fear the Boot. You can find the auction here (http://cgi.ebay.com/Fear-Boot-charity-auction-/200609605881?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2eb543a8f9)! If you'd like to make a direct donation instead of participating in the auction, you can do so here (http://www.marchforbabies.org/personal_page.asp?pp=2892571&ct=4&si=&w=4518033&u=rainagarcia). * (5:55) The next Gamer Adventure cruise is coming up on March 24, 2012. We'd love to have some of you join us! You can find more information here (http://www.feartheboot.com/ftb/resources/caribbean_2012_flyer.pdf). And if you think you can't afford this trip, please contact Kim and see if she can use her travel agent prowess to help you out. * (8:29) Chad takes us back to the D&D hotline. * (10:04) Why won't our campaign roll over and die like every other campaign we play? Using our current game as a case study on why campaigns tend to fall apart and the various factors that can keep them together. * (32:31) We pick up our conversation on lying again. This time we focus on player-to-player lying, including whether social skills should be usable on fellow players. Hosts: Chad, Chris, Dan, Johann, Pat, Wayne | 5/17/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
|
38 |
Bonus Episode 38 – gaming stories | A mix of gaming stories, best characters, and worst characters, drawn from the collective history of the hosts in attendance. FAIR WARNING: While all of the outright profanities are bleeped out, some of the content in this episode is a bit more coarse than our usual fare. Hosts: Chad, Dan, Mikey, Pat, Wayne | 5/10/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
| Total: 38 Episodes |
Customer Reviews
Poignant, Sharp, and Interesting!
I LOVE this podcast. Dan and his crew are personable, intelligent, and funny. They discuss tabletop gaming in a way that is surprisingly innovative; pulling from many different sources of differing opinions, to bring together a show that's not only bright, but entertaining as well. I recommend it to tabletop gamers of any experience level--heck, I'd even recommend it to people who've never played. Great show!
Other gaming podcasts need to fear the boot
After giving multiple pod casts about my most embarrassing hobby ever I found a lot of boring droll. This podcast is excellent, funny, informative, and they keep getting better. I will keep listening.
Impressive Knowledge with Humor
The FTB hosts collectively have a truly impressive array of knowledge about RPGs. Their discussions cross game genres and rules systems, and are refreshingly free of "gamer stories" while keeping things personal and topically relevant.
Listeners also subscribed to
- Role Playing Public Radio
- Ross Payton
- View In iTunes
- The Game Master Show
- David Moore, Mario Dongu
- View In iTunes
- All Games Considered
- Mark Kinney, Mags, and Carol
- View In iTunes
- Pulp Gamer Prime
- Don Dehm & Scott Forster
- View In iTunes
- Have Games, Will Travel
- Paul Tevis
- View In iTunes
