Shows
Tales & TacticsBtB: The Long GameIn this episode we explore “The Long Game”. Why some tabletop campaigns fade quietly into memory while others endure for months or even years. We discuss the hidden factors that determine campaign success: pacing, player investment, scheduling realities, emotional momentum, and knowing when to bring a story to a satisfying close. From burnout and overreach to flexibility and shared purpose, this conversation looks beyond mechanics to the human elements that truly sustain long term play and is a reflective look at what keeps the dice rolling over time.
2026-02-1759 minTales & TacticsRaW: Dragon Rampant 2nd EditionIn this Rules as Written episode, we take a close look at Dragon Rampant 2nd Edition by Daniel Mersey, examining how the updated rules build on the strengths of the original while refining clarity, balance, and flexibility. Designed for fast playing fantasy battles with a strong narrative slant, Dragon Rampant continues to offer an accessible entry point into mass fantasy wargaming without sacrificing tactical interest.We discuss core mechanics, unit profiles, activation, and how the game encourages creative army building across a wide range of fantasy settings. Drawing on tabletop experience alongside the read through, we reflect...
2026-02-101h 00Tales & TacticsRaW: Paranoia XPIn this Rules as Written episode, we dive into Paranoia, the tabletop RPG where the rules are unreliable, the GM is your enemy, and knowing how the game works is a capital crime. Focusing on Paranoia XP, we examine how the system deliberately weaponizes mechanics like hidden target numbers, arbitrary modifiers, mutant powers, clone death, and secret societies to enforce mistrust and institutional chaos. This episode breaks down how Paranoia’s rules are not meant to create fairness or balance, but to model bureaucracy, blame, and control, making it one of the clearest examples of a game where Rules as...
2026-01-1351 minTales & TacticsRaW: PillageIn this episode of Tales & Tactics, we take a close look at Pillage, the 2025 tabletop wargame release from Victrix. Designed for fast, aggressive play with a strong historical flavour, Pillage delivers decisive clashes, clear battlefield roles, and a ruleset that rewards momentum and bold decision making. We break down the rules as written, examining how the core mechanics function at the table and how the game balances accessibility with tactical depth. Drawing on multiple games played prior to recording, we discuss what Pillage does particularly well, how it flows in practice, and why it succeeds as a pick up...
2026-01-0656 minTales & TacticsBtB: Turns & TimingIn this Beyond the Book episode of Tales & Tactics, we examine how turns and timing shape play in RPGs and wargames, from rigid "I go you go" structures and phased turns to initiative systems, simultaneous actions, and narrative timing. We explore how different approaches to sequencing time affect pacing, tension, fairness, player agency, and cognitive load, and why certain genres demand precision while others thrive on flexibility. Ultimately, this episode looks past the surface mechanics to show how timing systems quietly guide player behavior, tactical thinking, and the overall feel of a game at the table.
2025-12-3057 minTales & TacticsRaW: Star Fleet BattlesIn this Rules as Written episode we take a deep dive into Star Fleet Battles, one of the most detailed tactical starship combat games ever published. Using the Cadet Training Handbook and Captain’s Edition Basic Set as our primary sources, we break down how secret energy allocation, simultaneous action, and subsystem level damage create a tense, simulation driven experience. From disruptors and drones to impulse movement and shield collapse, this episode explores why Star Fleet Battles rewards foresight, discipline, and mastery, and why it remains a cornerstone of tactical sci-fi gaming decades after its release.
2025-12-2357 minTales & TacticsBtB: In The CanonIn this episode of Tales and Tactics: Beyond the Book, we sit down for a roundtable discussion on the question of playing “in the canon” gaming within established settings, shared universes, and licensed properties. From famous fantasy worlds to well worn sci-fi timelines, we explore how much canon should matter once the dice hit the table. Drawing on examples from RPGs, wargames, and campaign play, we examine how canon can either empower creativity or unintentionally constrain it. Whether you prefer strict lore adherence or treating canon as a flexible backdrop, this episode digs into how groups can make shared worl...
2025-12-1653 minTales & TacticsRaW: The Star Wars Roleplaying GameIn this episode of Tales and Tactics, we jump to hyperspace as we take a close look at West End Games’ Star Wars D6 Second Edition Revised & Expanded, the legendary RPG that defined an era of galaxy spanning adventure. We break down the rules as written from the elegant attribute skill dice system to the iconic Wild Die and explore why this edition remains one of the most beloved and influential RPGs ever published.
2025-12-0956 minTales & TacticsBtB: Survival MechanicsSurvival games are built on pressure. Food runs out. Weather turns deadly. Equipment breaks at the worst moment. In this episode we dive into how tabletop systems model hardship, scarcity, and the struggle to stay alive. From the granular logistics of Twilight 2000 and The One Ring to the streamlined narrative scarcity of more recent games, we explore how designers create tension, how players adapt under pressure, and why survival rules can transform even simple journeys into memorable stories. Whether you love spreadsheets or story clocks, this episode breaks down the mechanics that make danger feel real and choices feel...
2025-12-0258 minTales & TacticsRaW: Twilight 2000 1st EditionIn this episode we head back to 1984 to explore the original edition of Twilight: 2000, GDW’s legendary Cold War survival RPG. First Edition presents a world where World War Three has burned itself out, governments have collapsed, and the remnants of the U.S. Players are left stranded in the ruins with one final message: you are on your own. We break down how this game blends gritty realism with a percentile task system, how skills, attributes, and hit locations define the tone of play, and why scarcity, attrition, and constant change are at the heart of its design. Fr...
2025-11-2555 minTales & TacticsBtB: Rule ZeroRule Zero says the Game Master can overrule the rules. But if the rules don’t matter, why have them at all? This episode examines this paradox at the core of tabletop gaming: the balance between written systems and the GM’s authority. We explore the idea Rule Zero from its role as a safety valve for incomplete designs to its modern use as a philosophy of play. Along the way, we explore how it protects creativity, enables bias, and tests the very idea of what makes a game fair or meaningful.
2025-11-1853 minTales & TacticsRaW: Quadrant 13In this episode of Tales and Tactics, we dig into the 2012 sci-fi company level wargame Quadrant 13 by TooFatLardies. Built on the robust framework of I Ain’t Been Shot Mum, this ruleset brings granular, historical style mechanics into a future battlefield filled with drones, grav tanks, and alien infantry. After a demo game and a detailed read through, we offer our thoughts on what this game does well, who it’s best for, and where it fits within the broader Lardies library. If you’re a fan of narrative sci-fi gaming with historical roots, or just looking to try someth...
2025-11-111h 02Tales & TacticsBtB: Framing & MindsetIn this episode we explore how Framing & Mindset shape every tabletop experience. Whether a game feels like tense horror, absurd comedy, or grounded realism often has as much to do with the rules themselves, as it does with how players frame their expectations. Complexity, tone, and even genre emerge from the collective agreement on what kind of story everyone is here to tell. From crunchy systems to narrative-driven ones, we unpack how the same mechanics can produce entirely different experiences depending on how you choose to play.
2025-11-0457 minTales & TacticsRaW: Chronicles of Darkness 2nd EditionIn this episode we dive into the mechanical heart of Chronicles of Darkness 2nd edition, and its expansion Hurt Locker, the modern horror engine that rebuilt the Storytelling System from the ground up. From exploding d10s and Integrity checks to the Conditions and Beats that turn emotion into math, we break down how the system makes fear, guilt, and consequence playable.
2025-10-281h 00Tales & TacticsBtB: Solo GamingIn this episode of Tales and Tactics: Beyond the Book, we explore the rich, introspective world of solo RPGs and wargames, an ever growing corner of the hobby where the only opponent is time, and the only limit is imagination. Whether it’s a high crunch system tackled over weeks of downtime, or a quiet, narrative-driven campaign played at your own pace, solo gaming offers unique freedoms and satisfactions. We discuss the tools, styles, and philosophies behind solo play: from journaling RPGs and oracle-driven storytelling, to solo wargame campaigns with evolving maps and persistent forces. We reflect on our ow...
2025-10-071h 01Tales & TacticsRaW: Clash on the FringeIn this episode of Tales and Tactics, we dive deep into the new edition of Clash on the Fringe, the sci-fi skirmish and platoon-level wargame from Nordic Weasel Games. We explore what’s new in 2nd Edition, from updated mechanics and tighter rules to how it captures the grimy, cinematic feel of small-unit combat in the far reaches of space. With its blend of narrative flexibility and tactical crunch, Clash on the Fringe 2e supports everything from one-off gunfights to full campaign arcs. We discuss its place in the indie sci-fi scene, the kinds of stories it enables, and wh...
2025-09-3057 minTales & TacticsBtB: What's an OSR?In this episode of Tales & Tactics: Beyond the Book, we dive into the Old School Renaissance—better known as the OSR. What began in the mid-2000s as a fan-driven effort to keep early D&D alive through retroclones like OSRIC and Labyrinth Lord quickly grew into a design movement emphasizing rulings over rules, player agency, and lethal, sandbox-style play. We explore how blogs and zines fueled the DIY culture, how retroclones opened the door for new publishing, and how OSR-adjacent games like Lamentations of the Flame Princess and Dungeon Crawl Classics took the ethos in bold new directions. Fr...
2025-09-2353 minTales & TacticsRaW: Classic Dungeons & DragonsThis episode we’re cracking open the classic B/X and BECMI editions of Dungeons & Dragons, the boxed sets that taught millions how to play. We’ll break down how Moldvay’s Basic rules streamlined OD&D into a clean, accessible framework, why Cook & Marsh’s Expert set expanded the game into wilderness and domain play, and how Mentzer’s BECMI line pushed advancement all the way to level 36 and beyond into Immortal status. From the simplicity of six ability scores and race-as-class, to the structured progression of dungeon → wilderness → dominion → planar → divine play, these editions show D&D at its most modula...
2025-09-161h 00Tales & TacticsBtB: Gaming GroupsIn this episode of Tales and Tactics: Beyond the Book, we take a step off the battlefield and into the community halls, hobby stores, and living rooms where great games begin: the world of gaming groups, RPG parties, leagues, and tournament scenes. We dive into what makes a thriving tabletop group—how to find one, how to join with success, and what it takes to start your own. Whether you’re looking to build a regular RPG night, host a skirmish campaign, or organize a narrative league or tournament, we share practical advice, personal experiences, and a few cautionary tale...
2025-09-0955 minTales & TacticsRaW: Midgard Heroic BattlesIn this episode of Tales and Tactics, we charge into the mist-shrouded clash of myth and history with a discussion on Midgard Heroic Battles, the ancients and fantasy wargame by James Morris. Designed for epic-scale conflicts with a heroic twist, Midgard blends large unit warfare with streamlined mechanics that encourage sweeping flanks, last stands, and battlefield legend. We explore what makes this game stand out in the world of big battle systems from its clean core rules and mythic overlays to the ways it invites narrative play without sacrificing tactical depth. Whether you’re drawn to Bronze Age spears, No...
2025-09-0259 minTales & TacticsBtB: Character TraitsIn this Beyond the Book, we tackle one of the most enduring design debates in tabletop gaming: traits, talents, feats, edges, advantages—whatever a system calls them, do they add real depth or just make things unbalanced and confusing? We’ll look at how different games implement them, from the granular feat chains of D&D to the broad strokes of narrative systems, and ask whether these mechanics empower creativity or simply trap players in optimization puzzles. Are they the spice that defines a hero, or a patchwork fix for bigger design gaps? Join us as we break down the...
2025-08-261h 01Tales & TacticsRaW: MechWarrior 1st EditionIn this episode of Tales & Tactics: Rules as Written, we strap into the cockpit and dive into MechWarrior 1st Edition—the gritty 1986 RPG that brought life outside the 'Mech to the BattleTech universe. We explore its 2d6-based skill system, point-buy character creation, and how it bridges personal-scale action with hex-based warfare. From dueling noble houses to back-alley firefights, this episode examines how the game captures a galaxy at war—one contract, and one overheating reactor at a time.
2025-08-191h 05Tales & TacticsBtB: Arts & CraftsThis episode, we step away from rules and dice to talk about the hands-on heart of the hobby—miniature modelling, painting, and terrain building. From kitbashing heroes to crafting battlefields, we explore the creative side that brings our tabletop worlds to life.
2025-08-121h 01Tales & TacticsDiY: The ConsortiumIn this episode, we dive into The Consortium, an indie fantasy miniatures game that blends skirmish-level tactics with the heart of a narrative-driven campaign. Built for flexibility and creativity, The Consortium hands players the tools to forge their own heroes, battle monstrous threats, and tell stories in a world where Guild politics and ancient magic shape every mission. We explore the game’s core systems—from its intuitive Action Dice mechanic to its dynamic initiative token draw—and unpack how character and monster creation work through a point-buy system that rewards flavor and storytelling as much as power. Whether you’re...
2025-08-0556 minTales & TacticsToL: The Golden Age of Science FictionIn this Tales of Lore, we explore the Golden Age of Science Fiction, a transformative era when pulp adventure gave way to intellectually rigorous, scientifically grounded storytelling. From Hugo Gernsback’s “scientifiction” experiments to the editorial revolution led by John W. Campbell at Astounding Science Fiction, we trace how authors like Asimov, Heinlein, and Clarke helped shape a genre obsessed with progress, exploration, and the power of the rational mind. It’s a story of optimism, invention, and the belief that the future could be built, not just imagined.
2025-07-2959 minTales & TacticsRaW: Classic TravellerWe journey back to the far future of 1977 to explore Classic Traveller—the minimalist, lethal, and oddly beautiful science-fiction RPG that helped define the genre and set the standard for sandbox roleplaying. With its stark presentation and open-ended design, Traveller offered something radically different from the fantasy games of its time: a hard-edged universe of veterans, traders, and drifters navigating an uncaring galaxy. In this episode, we delve into the infamous character creation system, the game's subtle but powerful mechanics, and its groundbreaking approach to worldbuilding and emergent storytelling. Traveller doesn’t hand you a setting—it gives you the to...
2025-07-221h 01Tales & TacticsBtB: EditionitisIn this episode of Tales and Tactics: Beyond the Book, we turn the page to a topic every tabletop gamer eventually confronts: new editions. We unpack when and why revising a ruleset can breathe new life into a game—and when it might just cause frustration, fragmentation, or fatigue. From the carefully considered updates that refine a system’s core mechanics, to the marketing-driven edition churn seen in some franchises, we explore the lifecycle of rules across wargames, roleplaying games, and historical systems. We also examine what makes an edition change feel earned—and what players, publishers, and designers should...
2025-07-151h 01Tales & TacticsRaW: Chain of Command 2In this episode of Tales and Tactics, we hit the front lines with Chain of Command 2, the much-anticipated second edition of the acclaimed WWII platoon-level miniatures game. After nine full games in the field, we bring you a hands-on review of the updated mechanics, streamlined systems, and fresh tactical nuances that make this edition shine. We dig into what’s changed, what’s improved, and what remains core to the Chain of Command experience. From command dice refinements to enhanced force morale and scenario flexibility, Chain of Command 2 delivers a tighter, sharper game without losing the fog-of-war tension that defi...
2025-07-081h 03Tales & TacticsToL: Warhammer FantasyWelcome to a world where the end times are always looming, the gods demand your fear, and the nobility become rich, while the peasants toil. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the grim, gothic, and grotesquely hilarious setting of Warhammer Fantasy.From its roots in 1980s British punk satire, folk horror, and post-imperial cynicism, to its unique blend of baroque horror and twisted excess, we explore the cultural DNA that shaped the Old World. We’ll look at what makes Warhammer’s satire hit so hard, why its doom feels so real, and how it b...
2025-07-011h 01Tales & TacticsRaW: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 2nd & 4thIn this episode, we dig into two towering editions of Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay — the brutally elegant 2nd Edition and the crunchy, modern 4th. What did each get right? Where do they clash? And how do design choices like Success Levels, career structure, and advancement pacing shape the game’s soul?We explore the shift from flat percentile crunch to narrative granularity, debate the infamous d100 vs. d20 argument, and ask: does slower progression make for a better game? Whether you're a grognard or a new cult initiate, this is your guide to WFRP’s evolving engine of doom.
2025-06-241h 02Tales & TacticsBtB: Gameplay & Campaign AidesIn this episode of Beyond the Book, we take a deep dive into the resources that support your tabletop battles and campaign storytelling—the behind-the-scenes tools that keep the game world running smoothly. From physical notebooks and battle maps to digital dashboards and worldbuilding apps, we share our favorite play aids for both game night efficiency and long-form narrative depth.
2025-06-1758 minTales & TacticsDiY: Fights of FantasyIn this episode, we draw initiative on Fights of Fantasy, a sprawling fantasy miniatures wargame by Christopher Reichenbach. After a deep dive into the rulebook and our first playtest, we break down what makes this system tick. From the character creation options to the highly modular army-building process, we explore how Fights of Fantasy balances crunch with creative freedom.
2025-06-1055 minTales & TacticsBtB: Who's Game Is This Anyway?When a tabletop game hits the table, who's really in control? The company that published it, the designer who wrote it, or the players who bring it to life? In this episode of Beyond the Book, we explore the tangled question of authorship and authority in tabletop games. From infamous licensing controversies like the OGL 1.1 fallout, to the rise of house rules, fan hacks, and open licenses, we break down the complex relationship between legal rights, creative intent, and table culture. Why can’t you copyright rules? What happens when fan creators outshine official products? And is Rule Zero ju...
2025-06-0359 minTales & TacticsRaW: Dark FutureThis Rules as Written, we strap in for a high-octane dive into Games Workshop’s 1988 cult classic, Dark Future—the dystopian car combat game where law is a freelance contract and the highway is a warzone. We break down the game’s unique gear-phase movement system, its streamlined (but deadly) D6-based combat, and its flair for cinematic chaos through modular track design and passive weapons like oil slicks and mines. We also explore the setting’s grim cyberpunk tone, where corporate collapse, climate disaster, and televised violence blend into a world of Sanctioned Ops and renegade biker gangs. Along th...
2025-05-2749 minTales & TacticsToL: The Golden Age of FantasyBefore fantasy was a billion-dollar franchise, it was weird, wild, and wonderfully unhinged. In this debut Tales of Lore episode, we journey back to the 1970s—the decade that shattered old molds and gave rise to a new generation of genre storytelling. From the mythic echoes of Tolkien and the sword-swinging grit of Conan to the surreal horrors of Clark Ashton Smith, we trace the three great precursors of modern fantasy—and explore how their fusion in the '70s created entire subgenres like Heroic Fantasy and Grimdark. Whether you're a fan of Dragonlance, Warhammer, or the original Appendix N ch...
2025-05-2058 minTales & TacticsRaW: Lasalle 2nd editionGrab your bicornes and brush up on your battlefield drills—this week on Tales & Tactics: Rules as Written, we’re marching into Lasalle 2nd Edition, the elegant Napoleonic wargame from Honour Games. Designed by Sam Mustafa, Lasalle 2E trades simulation sprawl for razor-sharp tactical flow, putting you in charge of a division where every formation, volley, and momentum point counts. We break down how it captures the feel of command, from skirmish screens to desperate squares, all in under three hours of gameplay. If you've ever dreamed of leading the Old Guard or outmaneuvering cuirassiers, this is your front line...
2025-05-131h 10Tales & TacticsBtB: Setting the TableIn this episode, we get grounded—literally—as we explore the art and practicality of setting up the perfect tabletop for miniature wargaming. From the compact intensity of a 3x3 to the sweeping battlefields of the classic 6x4, we break down how table size shapes gameplay. We also dive into the role of terrain: how to place it, how different game systems interact with it, and how it influences tactics and immersion. Finally, we consider the value of realism versus creativity—should your battlefield be inspired by actual historical maps, or is it better to conjure your own imagined war-to...
2025-05-061h 05Tales & TacticsRaW: Over the EdgeThis week on Tales & Tactics: Rules as Written, we take a deep dive into Over the Edge, the boundary-breaking RPG where conspiracies are real, and character creation is only limited by your imagination.We explore both the original 1990s edition and its radical 2019 reboot—examining how the rules evolved from the loose, player-driven WaRP system to a sleek, narrative-focused engine powered by 2d6 “lots” and twist-laden resolution. We’ll guide you through the mechanics, the wild trait system, the iconic setting of Al Amarja, and the kinds of characters—mutant detectives, failed vampires, psychic surgeons—that only Over the Edg...
2025-04-291h 01Tales & TacticsBtB: Tabletop VideogamesIn this episode, we explore the evolving relationship between tabletop games and their digital counterparts. From character progression in pen-and-paper RPGs to loot-driven gameplay in action RPGs like Diablo, we examine how different formats shape the player experience. What does it mean to grow a character in a narrative-driven TTRPG versus a stat-heavy video game? How do wargames and strategy titles compare across the table and the screen? Join us as we discuss the shifting genres, core mechanics, and storytelling philosophies that define gaming across mediums.
2025-04-2256 minTales & TacticsRaW: Fabula UltimaIn this episode, we dive into Fabula Ultima, the tabletop JRPG that blends classic video game tropes with modern storytelling mechanics. Inspired by titles like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger, this system invites players to co-create a world of magical ruins, noble heroes, and looming darkness—then set out on an epic journey of discovery, teamwork, and growth. We break down its flexible multi-class character system, cinematic combat, and collaborative world-building approach, exploring how Fabula Ultima captures the heart of JRPG storytelling while remaining accessible to new and experienced players alike.
2025-04-1559 minTales & TacticsBtB: Action EconomyIn this episode we discuss the concept of action economy in tabletop games, focusing on how it determines the number and types of actions players can take during their turns. Join us as we explore various systems, such as D20's standard move actions, free actions, and reactions, and compare them to games like Warhammer Fantasy, Fiasco and Mothership, examining how action mechanics influence strategy, pacing, and player engagement. Delving into the implications of action economy in competitive and non-competitive games, emphasizing its role in shaping gameplay, strategy, and immersion. The conversation touches on the balance between...
2025-04-081h 01Tales & TacticsRaW: Muntant Chronicles WarzoneIn this Rules as Written deep dive, we unpack Mutant Chronicles: Warzone—the gritty, skirmish-level wargame born from the techno-fantasy universe of Mutant Chronicles. From its 1995 debut by Target Games to its modern-day revival attempts, Warzone has carved a unique path through the miniatures battlefield. We explore its alternating activation system, faction-specific strategies, action point economy, and how it blends corporate militarism with supernatural horror. Whether you're a Doomtrooper veteran or new to the system, this episode breaks down what made Warzone a cult classic—and why it still matters today.
2025-04-0154 minTales & TacticsBtB: Lists & Unit ConstructionIn this episode, we dive deep into the art and science of army list writing and unit construction across a variety of wargames. From the streamlined formats of Warhammer 40K and Age of Sigmar to the meticulous detail of The Horus Heresy and The Old World, we explore how different games approach points values, upgrades, and balance. We also break down the structured Orders of Battle in BattleTech and Chain of Command, the detailed unit customization of LaserStorm 2e and OnePageRules, and the historical formations of Black Powder, Hail Caesar, and Pike & Shotte. Whether you’re building for competition, na...
2025-03-251h 01Tales & TacticsRaW: LaserStorm 2nd EditionIn this episode, we dive deep into LaserStorm 2nd Edition, the fast-paced, large-scale sci-fi wargame designed for 6mm to 10mm mass battles. We break down its dynamic initiative system, streamlined combat mechanics, and deep unit customization, exploring what makes it one of the best options for epic tabletop warfare. Whether you’re a veteran of classic Epic-scale wargames or new to the genre, we discuss why LaserStorm’s card-driven activations, morale system, and campaign play make it a standout choice. Tune in as we share our experiences, tactical insights, and tips for building your own futuristic armies in this acti...
2025-03-181h 02Tales & TacticsBtB: Magic & PowersIn this episode, we dive into the wild, unpredictable world of magic in tabletop RPGs, exploring everything from classic Vancian spellcasting and magic points to other innovative systems. We even touch on psionics and super powers. Breaking down how traditional games like Dungeons & Dragons have shaped the art of casting—with mechanics that range from rolling on unique spell tables with critical successes and catastrophic failures, to open-ended systems like Ars Magica’s flexible combinations, and take a look at the gritty chaos magic of Warhammer. Whether you're a veteran or new to TTRPGs, join us as we roll to c...
2025-03-111h 07Tales & TacticsRaW: Mage - The AscensionIn this episode, we dive into Mage: The Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition, a game where belief shapes reality and the struggle for control is as dangerous as the magic itself. We break down its freeform magic system, the Ascension War between the Traditions and the Technocracy, and the ever-present risk of Paradox when pushing reality too far. From themes of power and rebellion to the personal journey of Ascension, we explore what makes Mage one of the most ambitious and thought-provoking RPGs ever created.
2025-03-041h 00Tales & TacticsBtB: AdaptationIn this episode, we explore the art of adapting fiction and history into tabletop war games and RPGs. From faithfully recreating historical battles, to reimagining sci-fi and fantasy literature as a gameable setting, we break down the challenges and creative choices involved. How do designers balance accuracy with playability? What makes an adaptation feel authentic while keeping it engaging at the table? We examine examples from both war games and RPGs, discussing mechanics, worldbuilding, and the tension between historical realism and narrative freedom.
2025-02-251h 04Tales & TacticsRaW: Ares Games - War of the RingIn this episode, we dive into War of the Ring: Second Edition, the epic strategy board game that brings the struggle for Middle-earth to life. We explore its origins, tracing its lineage back to the original SPI game and how designers Roberto Di Meglio, Marco Maggi, and Francesco Nepitello refined the concept into a rich, asymmetric experience. From the Free Peoples' desperate defense to the Shadow's relentless advance, we break down the game’s mechanics, including the political track, action dice, and the ever-looming hunt for the One Ring. We also discuss the game’s immersive design choices, expansions, and...
2025-02-1858 minTales & TacticsBtB: Weapons & ArmorIn this episode of Tales & Tactics, we’re exploring the vital role of weapons, armor, and equipment in tabletop games. From crafting and durability to range, damage, and special qualities, we’ll break down how these elements influence gameplay and storytelling. We’ll also examine survival mechanics, consumables, and how tools like torches or rope add immersion and problem-solving opportunities to adventures. Whether it’s about balancing realism or driving the narrative, gear is at the heart of every great campaign. Tune in for a closer look at the essentials that keep adventurers equipped and ready for anything!
2025-02-111h 15Tales & TacticsRaW: Metamorphosis AlphaExplore the origins of Metamorphosis Alpha, the groundbreaking 1976 RPG by James M. Ward that launched science fiction into tabletop gaming. Set aboard the derelict starship Warden, players navigate a post-apocalyptic world of radiation, mutations, and forgotten technology inspired by classic sci-fi novels like Non-Stop and Orphans of the Sky. We'll dive into its innovative mechanics, from mutation-based character creation to its freeform, referee-driven gameplay, and examine how this 35-page rulebook paved the way for future sci-fi RPGs like Gamma World. Tune in for an in-depth look at a genre-defining classic!
2025-02-041h 06Tales & TacticsBtB: Miniatures AgnosticIn this episode, we explore the fascinating world of miniature agnostic gaming — where your creativity with miniatures knows no bounds. From historical games that transcend specific manufacturers to the art of kitbashing and the philosophy of WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get), we discuss how players breathe new life into orphaned games like Mordheim and Warzone. We cover standout examples of miniature agnostic systems, including BattleTech, Gaslands, Frostgrave, and Reign in Hell, where any model can fit the game’s universe. Whether you’re crafting mech proxies, assembling warbands of demons, or building sci-fi skirmish squads, these games...
2024-12-3156 minTales & TacticsHobgoblinIn this episode, we delve into Hobgoblin, the brutal fantasy wargame designed by Mike Hutchinson, the mind behind Gaslands and A Billion Suns. Inspired by classic large-scale fantasy battles, Hobgoblin embraces fast-paced, high-stakes combat where miniatures meet quick and bloody ends. We explore the game’s innovative keyword-based system that promotes creative army building, the striking visual design featuring art from CROM and Sean Sutter, and the evocative miniatures from Bestiarum and Highlands Miniatures. Set in the grim subterranean world of Rotvärlden — a realm of frozen tombs, fungal jungles, and molten hellscapes — Hobgoblin immerses players in a relentless cycle o...
2024-12-2458 minTales & TacticsBtB: Meta-CurrenciesIn this episode, we explore the fascinating world of meta-currencies – those in-game resources managed outside the narrative that empower players to wield a fragment of the Game Master’s authority. From Fate’s Compels to Call of Cthulhu’s Pushed rolls, meta-currencies give players agency, encourage roleplay, and add tension through risk and reward. We break down how different systems like Numenera’s Player Intrusions, Star Wars: Edge of the Empire’s Destiny Points, and D&D’s Inspiration balance narrative control with mechanical benefits. Whether it’s influencing outcomes, boosting dice rolls, or managing abilities, these tools shape player creativit...
2024-12-1748 minTales & TacticsNumeneraIn this episode, we dive into the strange and exotic world of Numenera, the award-winning tabletop RPG by Monte Cook Games. Set a billion years in the future on Earth, after the rise and fall of eight advanced civilizations, Numenera blurs the lines between science and magic with its mysterious artifacts, bizarre technology, and themes of discovery and survival. We’ll explore its origins, influenced by Planescape and Dark Space, its innovative mechanics like player-driven rolls and tiered character creation, and the rich Ninth World setting filled with danger, wonder, and the remnants of ancient empires.
2024-12-101h 07Tales & TacticsBtB: Dice & ThingsIn this episode we explore the essential tools that bring tabletop games to life: dice, miniatures, maps, and more. From the iconic d20 to more exotic narrative dice, we break down how different materials and mechanics shape gameplay. We also touch on the role of miniatures, maps, and tokens in enhancing immersion, and highlight how various systems like D&D, BRP, and Genesys use these tools to create unique gaming experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, join us for a journey through the physical and mechanical heart of tabletop gaming.
2024-12-0455 minTales & TacticsLegend of the Five Rings 5th EditionExplore the captivating world of Legend of the Five Rings (L5R), a franchise that began as a collectible card game in 1995 and evolved into a beloved tabletop RPG blending samurai drama and fantasy intrigue. We delve into its dynamic "Roll and Keep" mechanics, elemental gameplay, and unique systems like Honor, Glory, and Status, which bring Rokugan’s rigid social hierarchies to life while challenging players to balance personal desires (Ninjō) against societal duty (Giri). From the feuding Great Clans and divine Kami to the perilous Shadowlands defended by the Crab Clan, L5R offers a rich tapestry of lor...
2024-11-2658 minTales & TacticsBtB: Initiative & ActivationIn this episode, we take a deep dive into the mechanics that shape turn initiative and activation in tabletop and role-playing games. From classic Dungeons & Dragons' Dexterity-based rolls to the unique card-draw system of Sharp Practice, we explore how various games determine who acts first and in what sequence. Learn about fixed initiatives in Call of Cthulhu, the narrative-driven approach of Amber, and side-based systems in games like Fabula Ultima. Discover the intriguing initiative mechanics in Troika! where turns are drawn from a bag, and how Five Parsecs from Home uses crew reaction checks for fast and slow action...
2024-11-1259 minTales & TacticsBolt Action 3rd EditionJoin us in this episode as we delve into the evolution of Bolt Action, with the third edition of this popular 28mm WWII miniature wargame, by Warlord Games. We’ll compare its journey from the earlier editions, through to the current game, which features significant gameplay updates by renowned designer Alessio Cavatore. Discover the refined mechanics, including the dynamic “dice-pull” activation system and new “hit-wound-save” shooting rules, as well as the immersive historical primer that brings WWII battles to life. Whether you’re a veteran or new to the game, this episode provides insights into the strategic depth and history behi...
2024-11-0558 minTales & TacticsBtB: Shock & HorrorIn this episode, we dive deep into the mechanics of fear, sanity, and corruption across a variety of tabletop and role-playing games. From the cosmic horrors of Call of Cthulhu to the body-warping mutations of Warhammer 40K: Dark Heresy, we explore how these mechanics impact gameplay, character development, and player agency. We’ll look at how different games model fear, stress, and madness—whether through tactical morale systems in wargames or deeply personal sanity effects in RPGs. How do these mechanics shape our experiences at the table? Can they fit into any game? Tune in as we break down the...
2024-10-2944 minTales & TacticsChill 2nd EditionIn this episode, we delve into Chill, the classic horror role-playing game first released by Pacesetter Ltd in 1984, with a spotlight on its second edition published by Mayfair Games in 1990. We explore the origins of Chill, how it compares to its peers like Call of Cthulhu, and its unique approach to flexible character creation. We’ll talk system mechanics, from skill checks to fear and terror effects, and dig into the lore of SAVE, the secret organization at the heart of the game’s supernatural investigations. Join us for a deep dive into the eerie world of Chill and what...
2024-10-2252 minTales & TacticsBtB: Skill & AbilityIn this episode we dive into the numbers that shape your tabletop experience! From Dungeons & Dragons to Necromunda and beyond, we explore how attributes, skills, and stats define a character’s abilities, delving into classic characteristics like Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence, and their derivatives like hit points and spell points. We'll also break down the difference between level-based and skill-based systems, compare broad versus linked skills, and discuss unique alternatives like elemental attributes in *Legend of the Five Rings* or stat pools in *Numenera*. Plus, we tackle skill bloat and the evolution of stats across various systems!
2024-10-1555 minTales & TacticsDux BritanniarumIn this episode, we explore Dux Britanniarum, a 2012 release by Richard Clarke from TooFatLardies, which pioneered core mechanics like Force Morale that became central in later games. Known for its balance between historical depth and enjoyable gameplay, this skirmish campaign game allows players to relive the turbulent post-Roman period in Britain. With the Saxons raiding British lands, the game emphasizes storytelling through character development and strategic decisions in raids and battles. We also discuss its enduring popularity, the recommended Dux Raiders expansion, and the unique campaign experience it offers.
2024-10-0853 minTales & TacticsBtB: Time and DistanceIn this episode, we explore how time-keeping and distance impact gameplay across RPGs, wargames, and board games. We discuss how different systems, from the tactical rounds of Dungeons & Dragons to the hex grids of GURPS, handle time and movement, influencing resource management, strategy, and game balance. With examples from various games, we highlight how these mechanics shape both combat scenarios and long-term storytelling, and how players often modify them through house rules for a more personalized experience.
2024-10-0158 minTales & TacticsDungeon Crawl ClassicsIn this episode, we take a deep dive into the unique world of Dungeon Crawl Classics (DCC) RPG. We explore the fascinating history of the game, its association with the old-school renaissance movement, and the creative vision of Goodman Games. We also delve into the core concepts of the Dice Chain, Gonzo Fantasy, and Appendix N's influence on the game play of DCC. From the chaotic, unpredictability of magic, to the divine mandates of the deities, we uncover how these elements shape the experiences of both players and judges. Whether you're a seasoned DCC player or new to the...
2024-09-2458 minTales & TacticsBtB: A Return to Scope & ScaleIn this episode, we explore the concepts of scope and scale in wargames and RPGs. Scope focuses on the player's perspective, defining the limits and range of their actions, while scale determines how close we are to the action and the level of abstraction. We dive into various examples, from skirmish and grand strategy games like BattleTech and De Bellis Antiquitatis, to RPGs such as The One Ring and Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay, examining how they handle command levels, group actions, resource management, and character power dynamics. Tune in as we discuss everything from bathtubbing and battlefield command to cinematic...
2024-09-1749 minTales & TacticsSpace & Sword WeirdosIn this episode, we dive into the quirky and fast-paced world of Space Weirdos and Sword Weirdos, skirmish games created by Casey Garske. We'll explore the unique mechanics, creative freedom, and DIY nature of these rules-light miniatures games, uncovering what sets them apart in the tabletop community. Whether you're a veteran skirmisher or new to the genre, join us as we break down what makes these games a standout in the indie wargaming scene!
2024-09-1043 minTales & TacticsAD&D 1st Edition: Dungeon Masters GuideIn this episode, we continue our exploration of the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 1st Edition Dungeon Master's Guide, a defining resource for running the game and the core of this system. We'll uncover the book's deep influence on the role-playing game landscape, focusing on its comprehensive though somewhat esoteric rules, and invaluable tools, rich with ideas for running immersive campaigns. Join us as we examine the DMG's historical significance, key contributions, and the lasting impact it has on shaping the art of game mastering. Whether you're an experienced Dungeon Master or curious about the origins of RPGs, this episode promises...
2024-08-271h 29Tales & TacticsAD&D 1st Edition: Players HandbookIn this episode, we delve into the iconic Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 1st Edition Players Handbook, a cornerstone of tabletop role-playing games. We'll explore its groundbreaking impact on the RPG community, highlighting its detailed rules, rich character classes, and intricate magic systems. Join us as we discuss the book's historical significance, key features, and enduring legacy that continues to influence modern RPGs. Whether you're a veteran player or new to the world of Dungeons and Dragons, this episode offers a nostalgic journey and fresh insights into this classic gaming masterpiece.
2024-08-131h 32Tales & TacticsStarship TroopersIn this episode, we dive into Avalon Hill's Starship Troopers board game, inspired by Robert A. Heinlein's classic novel. We'll explore the game's unique asymmetrical gameplay, and strategic depth that pits the Mobile Infantry against the Arachnids and their humanoid alien allies. Join us as we discuss the scenarios, the game's components, and its lasting impact on the sci-fi and tabletop gaming world. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to Starship Troopers, this episode offers insights and tips to enhance your gameplay experience.
2024-07-3056 minTales & TacticsAdvanced Fighting FantasyThis episode, we explore Advance Fighting Fantasy (AFF), a tabletop RPG system evolving from the popular Fighting Fantasy gamebooks by Steve Jackson and Ian Livingstone. AFF combines simple, original mechanics with expanded rules for character creation, magic, and combat. Set in the rich fantasy world of Titan, it features detailed settings like Allansia, along with a comprehensive bestiary and spell system. AFF’s streamlined and flexible gameplay is accessible to newcomers yet offers depth for experienced gamers, creating an engaging and immersive role-playing experience.
2024-07-161h 10Tales & TacticsLaserburnThis classic tabletop skirmish game created by Bryan Ansell in the early 1980s, features fast-paced, tactical battles with small squads of characters. Known for its depth and flexibility, Laserburn gives a wide range of scenarios and creative gameplay. Despite its age, this game is still appreciated by enthusiasts for its detailed mechanics, offering a unique insight into the roots of sci-fi tabletop wargaming.
2024-07-0257 minTales & TacticsStormbringer 1st EditionIn this episode, we delve into the lesser-known Chaosium classic, Stormbringer, inspired by the psychedelic fantasy epic Elric novels by Michael Moorcock. This game thrusts larger-than-life characters into deadly conflicts between the cosmic forces of Law and Chaos. Heroes must make arcane pacts to gain otherworldly powers, adding a thrilling dimension to their adventures.
2024-06-181h 01Tales & TacticsBattledroids (Battletech 1st Edition)In this episode, we delve into the origins of the BattleTech franchise and explore the foundations that have sustained the game to this day. Join us as we rediscover the original giant fighting mech game and its enduring legacy.
2024-06-0459 minTales & TacticsCall of Cthulhu 2nd EditionThis episode we dive into the second edition of the much beloved Lovecraftian role-playing game, Call of Cthulhu. Joined by our guest host and Keeper, Darren, we explore the other worldly madness that is the first horror role-playing game.
2024-05-211h 22Tales & TacticsCharles Grant's BattleAn early British entry into modern miniature wargaming and significant influence on subsequent UK developers. We look back to this game of the late 60's, first published in the humble pages of Meccano Magazine.
2024-05-071h 13Tales & TacticsDallas The Television Role-Playing GameOne of the first licensed properties to be made into a roleplaying game, base on the hit Mega- Soap, Dallas. With its simple mechanics and evocative modern setting, this game is a delightful, if somewhat dated inclusion to the roleplaying hobby.
2024-04-2357 minTales & TacticsHomebrew ContentThis B-side we talk about the fun and sometimes necessity of modifying your games. For those most familiar with a game system, this is often where the magic happens.
2024-04-1624 minTales & TacticsHeroQuestThis episode we delve into the HeroQuest board game, which for many severed as an introduction into both RPGs and Wargames. We look into how this game introduces various tabletop gaming concepts to the uninitiated.
2024-04-0945 minTales & TacticsWarhammer Fantasy RoleplayThis episode we explore the early origins of the Warhammer setting, in its first role-playing game. We explore the history, rules and mechanics that have since made this a tabletop classic.
2024-03-261h 13Tales & TacticsWhere is the RP in RPG?In this B-Side we discuss the distinction between roleplaying games from other table-top games. While only scratching the surface of this topic, it establishes a beginning to answering this question.
2024-03-1916 minTales & TacticsBoot HillOne of the earliest man-to-man cowboy shootout games, that is both a miniature battle game and roleplaying experience in one. Saddle-up and bring your six-gun as we explore the range that is Boot Hill.
2024-03-1242 minTales & TacticsDungeon SurvivalHere we have an informal discussion about the nature of dungeon survival games.
2024-03-0530 minTales & TacticsTunnels & TrollsThis episode is all about the second fantasy roleplaying game, the dedicated work of one committed gamer to make his own path. To be sure, this ain't no fantasy heartbreaker.
2024-02-2742 minTales & TacticsWarhammer Fantasy BattlesIn this episode we explore Games Workshop's first foray into fantasy wargaming and game that set the stage for their Grimdark legacy to come.
2024-02-1358 minTales & TacticsOriginal Dungeons & DragonsWe get into mother of all roleplaying games and attempt to establish our credibility as role-players.
2024-01-301h 17Tales & TacticsScope and ScaleA casual conversation about scale and overall scope as it applies to war games. What is the difference viewpoint between clashing armies and skirmishing gangs?
2024-01-2331 minTales & TacticsChainmailThis episode we explore Chainmail, the precursor to many wargames and the entirety of roleplaying games as we know them. Join us as we explore the beginnings of a many thing to come.
2024-01-1338 min2024-01-1205 min