Shows
Loot MechanicsWisdom of the Aged – Loot Mechanics #402It’s an in-between week, with not much to discuss (also the last show in a three-show recording session!), so where do we go? Back to the “advice well”, as Beoulus and Scormus answer questions from younger TTRPG players and GMs! Intro (0:34) – The same old nonsense Tabletop Roleplaying (3:59) – Answering more questions from […]2024-11-111h 00Loot MechanicsOld-School Mindset – Loot Mechanics #361Beoulus and Scormus discuss how video games used to be released, as opposed to the new models, and which is superior. Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Video Games (10:36) – BG3’s director thinks the game shouldn’t be on subscription services. Is this old-school mindset hurting the game, in the long term? Wrap (34:06) […]2024-01-291h 00Loot MechanicsBest and Worst of 2022 – Loot Mechanics #304A rundown of our Best and Worst games of 2022! Intro (0:49) – Final thoughts on 2022 Other (8:38) – The Best Games of 2022! Blade Runner RPG Pokemon Legends: Arceus Coyote & Crow Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Rant (26:55) – The Worst Games of 2022 Dark Souls The Roleplaying Game Diablo Immotal Wrap (51:10) – […]2022-12-2659 minLoot MechanicsLast-Minute Holiday Gift Guide, 2022 edition – Loot Mechanics #303Yes, it’s that time of year again! Our annual picks for great, last-minute gifts for the gamers in your life! Intro (0:49) – What we’re doing for the Holidays! Other (5:29) – The gift-guide, as we do every year, but with less schlock this time around. TTRPG Dice, Joking Hazard, Replica Weapons, DragonFire Lamp, D&D […]2022-12-1931 minLoot MechanicsThe Last Topical Show of 2022! – Loot Mechanics #302Finishing out the year with some semi-topical news (as is our way), before the Holiday Specials come… Intro (0:49) – Scormey headbutted the planet, and Beoulus has been doing other things. Collectible Card Games (4:57) – Hasbro refutes suggestion they are killing “Magic: the Gathering” Wrap (31:05) – New World devs announce a lackluster roadmap […]2022-12-1245 minLoot MechanicsSchrödinger’s Company – Loot Mechanics #301Today we’re talking about unusual settings we might use for various TTRPGs, and the fickleness of WotC fans. Intro (0:49) – Scormey’s dice have failed him, and Beoulus has been working (because that’s all he does). Tabletop Roleplaying (5:34) – LET’S TALK SETTINGS!… Which is to say, unusual locales to center your adventures in. Wrap […]2022-12-051h 01Loot MechanicsBack to Business – Loot Mechanics #300We’re all about business today, talking about antitrust lawsuits and open game licenses! Exciting stuff! Intro (0:49) – Scormey’s been getting back to solo roleplaying with “WitchCraft”, and Beoulus discusses some “No Man’s Sky” news. Video Games (5:58) – The FTC looks likely to move to block Microsoft’s acquisition of ActivisionBlizzard Wrap (28:24) – WotC […]2022-11-2846 minLoot MechanicsBad Choices – Loot Mechanics #299Catching up, talking a bit about bad GM choices, and Scormey talks about a cool new game he got recently. Intro (0:49) – Scormey’s been on a hot streak, and Beoulus has been doing… something. Tabletop Roleplaying (5:29) – Let’s talk a bit about bad choices some GameMasters make, and how to fix them. Wrap […]2022-11-2156 minLoot MechanicsNot so Funagain – Loot Mechanics #298The distribution house Funagain has been screwing up left and right, especially with Free League associated projects. Scormey rants a bit about this. Intro (0:49) – Looks like we have a new trilogy of “Witcher” games coming, and Scormey is all about it! Rant (9:39) – I’m kinda mad at Funagain, Free League, and Limithron. […]2022-11-1456 minLoot MechanicsA Heroic Show – Loot Mechanics #297It’s all superheroes, all the time (almost), on today’s podcast! Intro (0:49) – Catching up on recent Meta news. Tabletop Roleplaying (19:20) – “Mutants & Masterminds” 3rd Edition is getting a reprint. What Superhero games would we like to see come back? Wrap (37:38) – Let’s talk a bit about “Marvel Snap” “Alchemists Tower” Kevin […]2022-11-0757 minLoot MechanicsThe Curse of Spooky Goodness! – Loot Mechanics #296Like every year, Beoulus and Scormey discuss a few new games (video games or TTRPGs) fitting to play on Halloween Intro (0:49) – What Halloween events are playing this year? Other (16:24) – The guys discuss “Trophy Dark“, “Killer Frequency“, “The Eldritch Hack“, and “Scorn“ Wrap (53:37) – Our plans for Halloween! “Alchemists Tower” Kevin […]2022-10-311h 01Loot MechanicsPanic and Paranoia – Loot Mechanics #295China cracks down on LARPers, and a new edition of “Paranoia” TTRPG, on this week’s show! Intro (0:49) – Somehow, Scormey’s “No Man’s Sky” exploits on Nintendo Switch pay off. LARP (7:57) – China goes full “Satanic Panic” on their LARPing community Wrap (28:42) – Mongoose is going to drop a new Kickstarter for “Paranoia: […]2022-10-2443 minLoot MechanicsThat could have gone better – Loot Mechanics #294“No Man’s Sky” on the Switch, “The Secret World” TTRPG brings controversy, and Roblox is getting sued! Intro (0:49) – Scormey’s been playing “No Man’s Sky” on his Switch, and Beoulus has been playing NMS on PC! TTRPG (19:26) – The Kickstarter project for “The Secret World” TTRPG started off with a bang, but not […]2022-10-1759 minLoot MechanicsDeveloper’s Blues – Loot Mechanics #293Beoulus posits a question: If you could develop your dream game, what would it be like? We have some thoughts. Intro (0:49) – Scormey finally got his office/studio renovated, and Beoulus had some gaming ADHD. Other (8:12) – If we could develop a game, what would it be like? Wrap (39:57) – Scormey’s thoughts on […]2022-10-1058 minLoot MechanicsSpooky Season! – Loot Mechanics #292It’s October again! Let’s talk about Ghoulish Gaming! Intro (0:49) – Scormey’s getting an early start on decorating for Halloween, and Beoulus has been doing… not much, gaming-wise. Other (6:23) – Let’s talk about some upcoming horror games, like “Saturnalia“, and “The Secret World” TTRPG! Wrap (31:38) – Blizzard screws up yet another launch day! […]2022-10-0359 minLoot MechanicsCatching up… again – Loot Mechanics #291Catching up with news from the last few weeks, because we’re really bad at this Podcasting thing! Intro (0:49) – I finally got my preorder for “No Man’s Sky” for the Switch! Plus, Beoulus went on vacation! Video Games (6:59) – Another big Nintendo Direct happened, with plenty of big news! Wrap (48:02) – Blizzard […]2022-09-261h 00Loot MechanicsYarrr! – Loot Mechanics #290It’s “International Talk Like a Pirate Day”, so we’re all about pirates in Gaming, on today’s show! Intro (0:49) – Wizard 101 inundated with profane system messages, as it was either hacked or assaulted by a rogue employee. Other (12:33) – Talking about the role of Pirates in gaming, from board games to MMOs to […]2022-09-1959 minLoot MechanicsThe First of Many to Fall – Loot Mechanics #289We knew Wizards of the Coast’s purchase of D&D Beyond would cause issues for other TTRPGs, but this soon? Intro (0:49) – Discussing “No Man’s Sky” and a couple non-“Animal Crossing” games for the Switch. TTRPG (6:31) – WotC’s purchase of D&D Beyond claims its first victim! Wrap (29:20) – Will Amazon come to regret […]2022-09-1246 minLoot MechanicsBad Sony, No Biscuit – Loot Mechanics #288We have a good ol’ fashioned rant session over Sony’s PS5 pricing plans, and other stuff. Intro (0:49) – PAX West just happened, with all its indie-game goodness. Rant (10:19) – Screw Sony and their Playstation 5, too! We give them a good reaming over their pricing plans. Wrap (29:17) – Scormey got a few […]2022-09-0538 minLoot MechanicsCosmetics Only? Riiiiiiiiiiiight! – Loot Mechanics #287Blizzard claims “Diablo 4” will not be Pay-to-Win, and other lies, on today’s show. Intro (0:49) – “Guild Wars 2” hits 10 years old, and other stuff. Video Games (4:20) – Blizzard claims “Diablo 4” will not be P2W, but will anyone believe them at this point? Wrap (25:39) – “Magic: The Gathering” meets “Doctor […]2022-08-2942 minLoot MechanicsYet More Tolkien – Loot Mechanics #286“The One Ring” is getting adapted to 5e, and other D&D-related news. Nothing major, of course. Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Tabletop Roleplaying (5:30) – One D&D. That’s it, nothing else matters. Wrap (40:08) – Free League is adapting their Tolkien TTRPG “The One Ring” to D&D 5e, something we could already do […]2022-08-2248 minLoot MechanicsStarting Over – Loot Mechanics #285The usual noise and drivel, plus a discussion of what might it take to get us to start a new MMORPG? Intro (0:49) – Scormey’s Nintendo Switch has failed him (slightly), and Beoulus talks about “Guild Wars 2”. Opinion (5:26) – What features and such would entice us to start playing a new MMORPG? Wrap […]2022-08-1550 minLoot MechanicsWhen Choads Go To GenCon – Loot Mechanics #284The worst of 4Chan sent some nasty messages to GenCon attendees, because Reasons. Yay, Humanity? Intro (0:49) – Scormey talks frying at Faire, and Beoulus talks about a new “No Man’s Sky” update. Other (5:57) – Choads text-assault folks at GenCon, as if that isn’t expected anymore. Wrap (27:07) – The Ennies were awarded at […]2022-08-0834 minLoot MechanicsA Return To Normal – Loot Mechanics #283Friendly Local Game Stores were struggling before the pandemic, so now that it is “over”, how can we get people back in? Intro (0:49) – Talking a bit about “Faeria” and “Traveler’s Rest” Advice (11:32) – Now that the Pandemic is “over” (it isn’t), we discuss some suggestions for getting people back into Friendly Local […]2022-08-0151 minLoot MechanicsChock full of stories – Loot Mechanics #282Gamestop goes NFTs, Eve Online courts the Noobs, and Roll20 and DTRPG form into a mega-VTT! Intro (0:49) – Gamestop launches an NFT marketplace, to the surprise of no one. Tabletop Gaming (15:48) – Roll20 and Drive-Thru RPG have joined forces! Wrap (43:40) – EVE Online is trying to draw in noobs. “Alchemists Tower” Kevin […]2022-07-2555 minLoot MechanicsTrove, but actually good – Loot Mechanics #281Doing voxel gaming right, and other nonsense Intro (0:49) – Scormey got some new games for the stack, and Beoulus is doing stuff! Other (9:56) – Scormey and Beoulus have some thoughts regarding “Minecraft Dungeons“. Wrap (37:40) – The nominations for the Ennies are out, and there are some interesting inclusions this year! “Alchemists Tower” […]2022-07-1852 minLoot MechanicsThere have been worse ideas – Loot Mechanics #280Now that video game movies are actually decent, TTRPGs-based films are getting a similar treatment. Intro (0:49) – Scormey is looking to buy an XBox, and whatever Beoulus has been up to. Tabletop News (7:00) – “Alice is Missing” is getting turned into a movie. Wrap (19:48) – Hideo Kojima falsely linked to political assassination. […]2022-07-1133 minLoot MechanicsBack to that deep ol’ well – Loot Mechanics #279Dipping back into the cesspool that is Facebook and Reddit, for more questions from Tabletop GameMasters! Intro (0:49) – Scormey has more new TTRPGs. He’s pretty excited about them, anyway! Tabletop Roleplaying (13:40) – More GM/DM advice, from the depths of Facebook and Reddit! Wrap (1:06:20) – “Elder Scrolls Online” got a new update. Does […]2022-07-041h 14Loot MechanicsNot Surprising At All – Loot Mechanics #278“Starfield” looks great, “Conan Chop Chop” isn’t all that much fun, and yet another TTRPG gets an OGL. yawn Intro (0:49) – Scormey tried (and failed) to pick up “Conan Chop Chop” again. Also, there’s a festival in “Guild Wars 2”? Video Game News (5:35) – As expected, “Starfield” looks amazing… but is it already […]2022-06-2741 minLoot MechanicsDiab-Low – Loot Mechanics #277Blizzard has had a rough few weeks regarding the Diablo franchise, and continue shoot themselves in the foot. We discuss this, and more. Intro (0:49) – Scormey is back from Faire, and has thoughts on the matter. Video Game News (9:58) – “Diablo Immortal” sucks, and this causes Blizzard to ruin any hype fans might […]2022-06-201h 01Loot MechanicsBoring Old Opinion Piece – Loot Mechanics #276Pulling a topic out of our ass, yet again! This time, we talk about ideas for new features in our favorite MMORPGs. Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief (mostly Drone stuff). Other (7:19) – Features we’d like to see added to certain online games, and why. Wrap (38:40) – Final thoughts, including more new […]2022-06-1346 minLoot MechanicsWhoops! – Loot Mechanics #275A fix is coming for the “Dark Souls” RPG, and another Marvel MMO bites the dust. Intro (0:49) – Beoulus has been working, as usual, and Scormey is at Faire! Tabletop Roleplaying (7:26) – The “Dark Souls” RPG fix is coming soon… kind of, anyway. Wrap (26:29) – The Marvel MMO from Daybreak is no […]2022-06-0641 minLoot MechanicsTroll Party – Loot Mechanics #274Trolls doing what Trolls do in “Guild Wars 2”, and a little talk about the “Girl Genius RPG” book. Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Video Game News (7:46) – ArenaNet fails to learn from previous mistakes, allowing Trolls to screw players yet again. Wrap (23:45) – My thoughts on the “Girl Genius RPG“, […]2022-05-3034 minLoot MechanicsPANIC! – Loot Mechanics #273New TTRPG books, panic over D&D Beyond’s recent book removal scandal, and more! Intro (0:49) – NEW. F*CKING. BOOKS. Tabletop Roleplaying (13:09) – ZOMG! DERR TAKKIN” MAH BOOKZ! Wrap (33:12) – Final thoughts. “Alchemists Tower” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/2022-05-2341 minLoot MechanicsNostalgia on Steroids – Loot Mechanics #272Since these movies are right in our wheelhouse, let’s talk about tabletop roleplaying in action film settings! Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Tabletop Roleplaying (3:37) – The merits and downsides of delving into action-movie tabletop roleplaying Wrap (26:12) – In a move that shocks no one, Bethesda delays “Starfield” to 2023. “Alchemists Tower” […]2022-05-1636 minLoot MechanicsFixing what’s broken – Loot Mechanics #271New stuff in Scormey’s mail, a look at more bad dev choices from Blizzard, and we discuss the ethics of fixing errors in TTRPG books. Intro (0:49) – New games arriving at Casa de Scormey! Video Game News (6:29) – Troubles regarding “World of Warcraft”, and Scormey relates how this all comes back to a […]2022-05-0945 minLoot MechanicsFuture Uncertain – Loot Mechanics #270Catching up on stories we missed the last few weeks (D&D, No Man’s Sky, Girl Genius RPG), on today’s show! Intro (0:49) – Beoulus has some things to say about the new “No Man’s Sky” update, “Outlaws” Tabletop Gaming (7:57) – Big changes for D&D coming, with Hasbro is buying out “D&D Beyond”, plus “Dragonlance” […]2022-05-0252 minLoot MechanicsNice! – Loot Mechanics #269Swingin’ into more answers to DM and GM questions, only in a sexy way! Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Sage Advice (7:26) – Answering more questions from DMs and GMs! Wrap (58:38) – Final thoughts. “Alchemists Tower” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/2022-04-251h 08Loot MechanicsIs this all over a helmet? – Loot Mechanics #268Talking about the “Halo” series, as well as Scormey’s frustrations with a certain gaming company, on today’s show! Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Other (6:48) – Scormey’s been watching the series based on “Halo”, and has a few thoughts on the controversy about it… Tabletop Games (22:05) – I think I’m done with […]2022-04-1851 minLoot MechanicsChanges for the better – Loot Mechanics #267Let’s talk about WoW rumors, threats to Kickstarter’s dominance over crowdfunding, and Hello Games wins another award! Intro (0:49) – Let’s talk about the rumors surrounding the new WoW expansion! Board Games (12:31) – Cyanide and Happiness abandon Kickstarter, in favor of Gamefound Video Games (28:52) – “No Man’s Sky” wins a BAFTA, and has […]2022-04-111h 01Loot MechanicsBursting Bubbles – Loot Mechanics #266Let’s spend some time today talking about the recently-announced adventure compilation for D&D, “Journeys Through the Radiant Citadel”, while considering if pay-to-win games are ready to come crashing down. Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Tabletop Roleplaying (11:44) – Let’s talk about our thoughts on the upcoming adventure compilation for D&D, “Journeys Through the […]2022-04-0455 minLoot MechanicsFrom Tyria to Tekumel – Loot Mechanics #265Looking ahead to the future for “Guild Wars 2”, and discussing the fall of a roleplaying Icon Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Video Games (4:29) – ArenaNet has big plans for “Guild Wars 2”. Let’s discuss them! Tabletop Gaming (22:21) – Discussing the disturbing information recently uncovered about M.A.R. Barker Wrap (44:24) – […]2022-03-2851 minLoot MechanicsAll Wizards, All The Time – Loot Mechanics #264Talking about “Magic: The Gathering” and “Dungeons & Dragons”, on this week’s show! Intro (0:49) – From “Vagabonds of Dyfed” to “Dune”, and more recent fun! Collectible Card Games (7:18) – Scormey doesn’t really recognize modern “Magic: The Gathering“. Whinging commences. Tabletop Roleplaying (30:08) – Do we really need any TTRPGs other than “Dungeons & […]2022-03-2154 minLoot MechanicsTrolls be Trollin’ – Loot Mechanics #263Russian Trolls attack CD Projekt Red, and WotC lays groundwork for a possible “Dragonlance” campaign book. Intro (0:49) – Discussing Beoulus’ views on the new “Guild Wars 2” expansion. Plus “Elite: Dangerous” abandons consoles. Video Games (15:00) – Russian Trolls review-bomb “Cyberpunk 2077”, fail miserably. Tabletop Gaming (31:30) – Newest Unearthed Arcana hints at upcoming […]2022-03-141h 04Loot MechanicsHipster Roleplayers – Loot Mechanics #262Let’s talk about TTRPG bullies and some of our favorite video games that we just can’t finish Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. TTRPG (8:28) – Some say D&D players are starting to get bullied for playing it, as opposed to other TTRPGs. Has the community gone Full Hipster? Video Games (28:41) – Some […]2022-03-0753 minLoot MechanicsLegendary! – Loot Mechanics #261Today we talk about our thoughts on “Pokemon Legends: Arceus” and the full first season of “The Legend of Vox Machina”. Spoilers! Intro (0:49) – Chatting a bit about new content for “No Man’s Sky” and “Guild Wars 2”. Plus, COVID. Video Games (4:49) – Scormey has been playing a lot of “Pokemon Legends: Arceus“, […]2022-02-2839 minLoot MechanicsWords to the Wise – Loot Mechanics #260Answering questions from Internet DMs. Seriously, that’s all. Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Advice (4:03) – Answering questions from Internet DungeonMasters Wrap (56:57) – Final thoughts. “Alchemists Tower” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/2022-02-211h 03Loot MechanicsFirestorms – Loot Mechanics #259Let’s talk about corporate communications, butthurt bigots, and more on today’s show! Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Video Games (5:06) – CIG steps in it, again, regarding their communication with fans of “Star Citizen”. Tabletop Games (37:04) – There’s an inclusivity-focused Cthulhu Mythos game coming. Will it be a victim of the “Get […]2022-02-141h 09Loot MechanicsI Got A Lot Of Slots – Loot Mechanics #258Beoulus and Scormey have some TTRPG Hot Takes, and Scormey rants (again) about F2P video games. Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Tabletop Gaming (4:53) – Roleplaying Hot Takes Rant (29:30) – “Free to Play” video games are an abject failure. Wrap (1:02:03) – Final thoughts. “Alchemists Tower” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative […]2022-02-071h 10Loot MechanicsBeads of Love – Loot Mechanics #257Discussing corporate buyouts, D&D, and more, on today’s show! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Video Games (3:54) – We have to discuss the Activision/Blizzard buyout, late though we may be. Podcasting & Streaming (27:42) – We talk about “The Legend of Vox Machina”, and so forth. Wrap (1:01:48) – Beoulus has the new […]2022-01-311h 15Loot MechanicsLegends and Losers – Loot Mechanics #256Let’s talk about the Critical Role animated series, and some honesty out of Cloud Imperium Games! Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Podcasts & Livestreams (4:25) – “The Legend of Vox Machina” arrives later this week! Let’s discuss our thoughts on the show. Video Game News (25:26) – CIG announces both “Star Citizen” and […]2022-01-2450 minLoot MechanicsThe Power of No – Loot Mechanics #255Players and artists stand up for themselves, on today’s podcast! Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Video Game News (8:19) – SSG announces, then backs down from, controversial P2W changes for LOTRO TTRPG News (35:26) – TSR 3.5 gets another kick in the balls. Wrap (59:04) – Final thoughts. “Alchemists Tower” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) […]2022-01-171h 05Loot MechanicsMost Anticipated 2022 – Loot Mechanics #254Let’s talk about some of the games we are most looking forward to in 2022! Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. Video Games (9:34) – Here are some of our most-anticipated video games for 2022! Tabletop Games (32:19) – Same as above, but for TTRPGs coming in 2022! Wrap (51:12) – Final thoughts. “Alchemists […]2022-01-1055 minLoot MechanicsStarting 2022 with a WTF – Loot Mechanics #253Scormey got a surprise in the mail recently, and we have another rant about Alt-Right Gamer CHUDs Intro (0:49) – Our week, in brief. TTRPG Talk (8:00) – So guess what came in the mail the other day? A Rant (36:30) – Right-Wing Gamers are starting to really make me hate Gaming in general. Wrap […]2022-01-031h 03Loot MechanicsFive Years Gone – Loot Mechanics #252A fun look back at the last five years of this show, from our days as “Pixels & Dice”, through our run (thus far) as “Loot Mechanics”. Intro (0:50) – A few words from Scormus Main Topic (3:57) – 2017: A Gamer Confessional (with Ryleia!) Other Bullshit (27:32) – 2018: Our first impressions of D&D […]2021-12-292h 11Loot MechanicsVery Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide – Loot Mechanics #251Our annual suggestions for last-minute gifts for the Gamers in your life. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (3:58) – What to get the Gamer in your life, when you’re a dumbass, and waited until the last minute to buy a gift Sage Advice (9:56) – Actually good ideas for last-minute gifts […]2021-12-2242 minLoot MechanicsThe Last Topical Show of 2021 – Loot Mechanics #250Fandom is not making many fans right now, and our prestigious “Best and Worst Games” awards of 2021! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (3:44) – Fandom shits the bed with their licensing for 3rd party Cortex Prime content Other Bullshit (27:11) – Best and Worst of 2021 Wrap (1:08:56) – Final […]2021-12-151h 15Loot MechanicsObscurity and Infamy – Loot Mechanics #249Scormey waxes philosophical on obscurity in TTRPGs and “New World”. Also, Gamigo makes wild claims about “Rift”, and cool stuff coming on Kickstarter! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (10:00) – How obscure is too obscure, when it comes to TTRPGs? Is this game too close to the line? Video Game News […]2021-12-081h 01Loot MechanicsLies, Deceit, and Homework – Loot Mechanics #248Lots to catch up on this week, with news about LOTRO, D&D, plus commentaries on Activision/Blizzard and Scormey’s Kickstarter problem! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (12:47) – Daybreak (Enad Global 7) opens mouth, spews lies about LOTRO, Marvel MMO, etc. TTRPG News (36:01) – Strixhaven is coming, and Scormey could not […]2021-12-011h 05Loot MechanicsSuckerpunch – Loot Mechanics #247XL Games takes “ArcheAge” away from Gamigo, and WotC files for a trademark on a product that sounds a lot like their own VTT. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (2:19) – Gamigo takes one on the chin, as “ArcheAge” is being taken away from them. TTRPG News (19:58) – Let’s discuss […]2021-11-2446 minLoot MechanicsTo Be Fair – Loot Mechanics #246Today we talk a bit about the new Kickstarter project for “Thirsty Sword Lesbians”, and we look at good news regarding “New World”! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (6:54) – The TTRPG “Thirsty Sword Lesbians” is getting an expansion, and it’s a pretty cool Kickstarter project! Video Game News (36:11) – […]2021-11-171h 06Loot MechanicsUnified in Disgust – Loot Mechanics #245“New World” players seem unified in their disdain for Amazon devs, and we discuss how “Critical Role” went from darlings to villains. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (8:39) – The problems just keep piling up for “New World”, don’t they? TTRPG News (41:54) – Critical Role are now apparently pariahs, because… […]2021-11-101h 11Loot MechanicsOvershadowed – Loot Mechanics #244Today’s a bit of Good News, with shades of Bad. We’re talking about the “Girl Genius RPG”, and updates for ACNH! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (3:47) – The long-awaited “Girl Genius RPG” is finally on the way, but not without controversy. Video Game News (28:35) – The “Animal Crossing” update […]2021-11-0353 minLoot MechanicsSomething Vaguely Halloweeny – Loot Mechanics #243Talking about this year’s crop of MMORPG Halloween events, and our favorite horror-themed board and card games! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (2:47) – Let’s talk this year’s Halloween events in our favorite MMORPGs Other Bullshit (28:10) – Spooky Haunted Board Games! Wrap (44:10) – Final thoughts. Music from https://filmmusic.io “Pixelland” […]2021-10-2750 minLoot MechanicsBad to the Bone – Loot Mechanics #242Discussing whether we would play a TTRPG with a bad reputation, and Scormey has a bit of an MMO Rant… Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (3:27) – Are you willing to try a TTRPG with a bad reputation? Rant (26:40) – Is the idea of truly social MMO play dead and […]2021-10-2049 minLoot MechanicsI did Nazi that coming – Loot Mechanics #241More drama regarding the Intellivision Amico. Plus, FKR, anyone? Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (3:22) – There’s more drama regarding the Amico, and yes, it’s another day that ends with a Y. It Came From The Internet (23:30) – Think OSR TTRPGs are too restrictive? Maybe FKR is more your style! […]2021-10-1349 minLoot MechanicsNew Stuff and Whiners – Loot Mechanics #240D&D getting a huge giftset in January, and Scormey gives some thoughts on “New World”! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (7:16) – WotC is releasing a massive new giftset for D&D in January! Let’s discuss! Rant (32:59) – “New World” has finally arrived, and Scormey has Thoughts on the matter. Wrap […]2021-10-0655 minLoot MechanicsToxicity or Passion? – Loot Mechanics #239Game devs of all stripes tend to call out criticism of their games as “Toxicity”. Is that really fair? Also, is WotC leaving money on the table regarding CCGs? Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (7:28) – Is all negative player feedback really Toxicity, or are devs just unfairly blowing them off? […]2021-09-291h 01Loot MechanicsDid Activision buy Paizo? – Loot Mechanics #238Paizo has been rocked by some rather grim allegations of late, and Nintendo proves they are still Nintendo. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (5:34) – Paizo doing their best impression of Blizzard, and not in a good way. Video Game News (37:47) – Nintendo drops the price of the current Switch […]2021-09-221h 13Loot MechanicsGenCon and other coolness – Loot Mechanics #237Let’s talk GenCon and the future of gaming conventions. Plus, retro gaming via FPGA … Is it finally worth the price? Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (5:14) – GenCon 2021 is (finally) here! Let’s talk about what this means for cons in the future. Video Game News (23:28) – FPGA comes […]2021-09-1559 minLoot MechanicsFire up your Clanks! – Loot Mechanics #236Discussing updates regarding the Wargaming story from last week, as well as the upcoming release of “Girl Genius” TTRPG! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (6:55) – Wargaming apologizes… sort of. Tabletop Roleplaying News (46:04) – “Girl Genius” TTRPG is finally coming! Fans of the web-comic all rejoice! Wrap (1:09:50) – Final […]2021-09-081h 20Loot MechanicsWorld of Whale$hips – Loot Mechanics #235Wargaming shows their true colors. Also, let’s discuss the furor around the new companion book for “Thousand Year Old Vampire” Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (4:28) – Wargaming just keeps digging their grave deeper and deeper. Tabletop Gaming News (43:29) – How do you anger a whole bunch of Vampires? Wrap […]2021-09-011h 15Loot MechanicsEnnies and Ouchies – Loot Mechanics #234The nominations for the 2021 ENNIE awards are out, and Nintendo stomps on a ROM website operator. Again. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (6:42) – The nominations for this year’s ENNIES are out! Let’s discuss. Video Game News (1:15:50) – ROMUniverse gets their throat stomped by Nintendo, and it’s all their […]2021-08-251h 38Loot MechanicsOn the Horizon – Loot Mechanics #233We’re all about upcoming gaming projects this week! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (2:28) – Let’s talk about a great new TTRPG on Kickstarter, “Omega Horizon“. Video Game News (22:45) – Let’s talk upcoming gaming projects! Wrap (48:00) – Final thoughts. Music from https://filmmusic.io “Pixelland” by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC […]2021-08-1857 minLoot MechanicsStupid is as Stupid does – Loot Mechanics #232More stupid Blizzard discussions, because we have to, and WotC are raising prices by the end of the year. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (8:09) – Chaos ensues over at Blizzard, as J. Allen Brack “steps down” as President Tabletop Gaming News (32:04) – Price increases are coming for D&D and […]2021-08-111h 02Loot MechanicsThe Switch-Killer? – Loot Mechanics #231Let’s (belatedly) talk about Valve’s Steam Deck, and a bit about OP subclasses in D&D. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (3:04) – The Steam Deck is coming. Is it the Switch-Killer? Sage Advice (35:08) – Beoulus wants to talk about overpowered subclasses in D&D Wrap (1:01:36) – Final thoughts. Music from […]2021-08-041h 12Loot MechanicsD&D Meh – Loot Mechanics #52There’s new information on upcoming D&D products to discuss, and of course the whole Blizzard kerfuffle. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (5:19) – Let’s talk about the new information regarding autumn releases for D&D Video Game News (25:59) – California v. Blizzard. This ought to be good! Wrap (41:57) – Final […]2021-07-2856 minLoot MechanicsGoing RAW, Dawg – Loot Mechanics #51A discussion of “Going RAW” in TTRPGs, and whether or not there are signs of life for the MMORPGs formerly run by Trion Worlds. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (2:38) – Let’s discuss whether or not to play “rules as written” in TTRPGs. Video Game News (21:26) – Gamigo has brought […]2021-07-2139 minLoot MechanicsUnPROfessional – Loot Mechanics #50The Switch “Pro” finally got announced, and things are simply ugly over at TSR/WFG Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (2:05) – The “Not Pro” Nintendo Switch is coming. I’d just like to say WE WERE RIGHT! Tabletop Gaming News (15:23) – More woes and weirdness coming from the newest former TSR. […]2021-07-1444 minLoot MechanicsTaking out the Trash – Loot Mechanics #49Dealing with troublesome players, and broken video games, on today’s podcast Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (9:28) – GM advice for dealing with troublesome players, and perhaps recognizing them early Video Game News (31:07) – “Dungeons & Dragons: Dark Alliance” apparently sucks. Let’s discuss. Wrap (47:56) – Final thoughts. Music from […]2021-07-0755 minLoot MechanicsSame Old Story – Loot Mechanics #48Discussing some serious BS from Funcom regarding Secret World Legends, and a giant of TTRPG history is back (to our chagrin)! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (4:19) – Funcom fails at supporting SWL, as well as honoring the death of a beloved community member Tabletop Gaming News (23:42) – Guess what’s […]2021-06-3056 minLoot MechanicsAddressing the Future – Loot Mechanics #47Let’s discuss the inevitable 6th edition of “Dungeons & Dragons”. Also, Google is bringing Stadia to Android devices… and no one cared. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (14:02) – WotC will inevitably release a 6th edition of D&D. What do we think that will look like? Video Game News (38:49) – […]2021-06-2357 minLoot MechanicsCasual Paradise – Loot Mechanics #46Today we discuss the upcoming Casual MMO “Palia”, as well as the recently announced books for D&D5e. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (6:08) – Let’s talk about “Palia“, and how it might save the MMORPG genre Tabletop Gaming News (22:55) – Two new adventure books have been announced for D&D, and […]2021-06-1646 minLoot MechanicsBattle Royale – Loot Mechanics #45Things are looking rosy for the games previously controlled by Daybreak, and people are going insane over Pokemon TCG cards. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (4:28) – Dweebs fight over Pokemon TCG cards, which is about as ‘Murica as you can get, outside of a school shooting. Video Game News (15:53) […]2021-06-0938 minLoot MechanicsAwfully Cheerful News – Loot Mechanics #44So apparently there is an upgraded Nintendo Switch coming, possibly this Autumn. Also, let’s talk about an awesome new TTRPG on Kickstarter, that really deserves your attention! Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (5:38) – Word is the Switch Pro is indeed a Thing. Let’s discuss! Tabletop Roleplaying News (26:16) – I […]2021-06-0254 minLoot MechanicsOdyssey of PainEpisode #43 – We discuss the new expansion for “Elite: Dangerous”, and Scormey has a bit of a Rant about Amazon. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (8:58) – “Elite Dangerous: Odyssey” just launched. We have thoughts on the new expansion. Rant (25:28) – Do not preorder TTRPGs through Amazon! Wrap (43:31) […]2021-05-2657 minLoot MechanicsSimpin’ for TiamatEpisode #42 – Today we discuss the upcoming D&D crossover into “Magic: The Gathering”, as well as Scormey has a bit of a rant about Twitch. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (8:44) – Taking a look at the upcoming D&D crossover into “Magic: The Gathering” Rant (25:13) – Can these women […]2021-05-1951 minLoot MechanicsAddictions and ObsessionsEpisode #41 – Lets talk about addictions in the TTRPG sphere, and whether the obsession with MMORPGs is over. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (7:30) – Which TTRPG products are the most addictive: Dice, Minis, or the Games themselves? Other Bullshit (22:04) – Does anyone really care about MMORPGs anymore? Wrap […]2021-05-1242 minLoot MechanicsI hope they get Werewolves rightEpisode #40 – The future of games formerly under the Daybreak umbrella is still in doubt, and we talk about the upcoming “World of Darkness” series and movie. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (4:15) – Enad Global 7 finally talks about the Daybreak buyout, but doesn’t really address the future of […]2021-05-0543 minLoot MechanicsAging OutEpisode #39 – How will the video game industry change as older gamers leave the hobby? Also, how will home 3D printers affect the TTRPG miniatures market? Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (3:36) – While PC and Console Gaming remain strong, Mobile clearly dominates the industry. With many gamers getting older, […]2021-04-2839 minLoot MechanicsRevisiting some topicsEpisode #38 – Let’s discuss some topics we’ve talked about previously, but are deserving a second look. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief, and some further comments on the Intellivision Amico Main Topic (10:57) – Kickstarter is full of Indie TTRPG projects, and those are dominated by ones that are compatible with D&D 5e. […]2021-04-2147 minLoot MechanicsScormey’s Broken AgainEpisode #37 – Scormey had another medical procedure done, so here’s a pre-recorded fluff episode, to cover while he’s in bed, hating life. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (4:24) – Let’s talk about our “Guilty Pleasure” video games! Other Bullshit (19:10) – What TTRPGs do we love to read, but would […]2021-04-1443 minLoot MechanicsPerfectly AwfulEpisode #36 – Discussing drama and worse in the Kickstarter TTRPG community, and whether the Intellivision Amico will ever actually be released. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (8:05) – “The Perfect RPG” perfectly fails on Kickstarter, amongst a hail of controversy and such. Video Game News (26:57) – The Intellivision Amico […]2021-04-0746 minLoot MechanicsAll about the positivity!Episode #35 – Looks like maybe we were a bit too harsh regarding “Rift” lately. Also, let’s discuss John Harper’s generous changes to his hacks license for “Lasers & Feelings”, and what it means for TTRPG development. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (6:18) – Looks like we were wrong about “Rift” […]2021-03-3149 minLoot MechanicsAlas, poor Rift! I knew it wellEpisode #34 – There is potential f*ckery afoot at Gamigo, when it comes to “Rift”. Also, with a new D&D movie in development, we discuss what other TTRPGs might make for good movies. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (7:02) – Gamigo is shuttering the “Defiance” titles, and laying off the US-based […]2021-03-241h 13Loot MechanicsA Dicey SituationEpisode #33 – Discussing drama and discord in the Dice Collecting community, and (of course) EA screws up. Again. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (3:12) – Don’t be like the owner of Gate Keeper Games. Seriously, just… ugh! Other (26:02) – A brief addendum to our last topic, regarding Dice Maniacs’ […]2021-03-1751 minLoot Mechanics“Anonymous Sources”Episode #32 – Should we trust anonymous sources anymore, and Adam Bradford has a new job. Intro (0:50) – Our week, in brief. Main Topic (2:26) – Bloomberg reports that a new 7″ 720p OLED display is coming to a new Nintendo Switch revision later this year. But can we really trust this? TTG News […]2021-03-1038 minLoot MechanicsThe Fall GuyEpisode #3 – Today Beoulus and Scormus have a chat about “Fall Guys” bringing the worst out of the PvP community, and discuss the classic TTRPG “Twilight: 2000” coming back via Kickstarter. Intro (0:50) – Not much, we screwed this up! Main Topic (1:12) – The newest game to come into the battle royale arena, […]2020-08-2135 minLoot MechanicsDiscussing the Merits – Pixels & Dice #177Today Beoulus and Scormus debate in favor of their favorite MMORPG*, not to say which is better, but to help expose more people to their choices. Music from https://filmmusic.io “Pixelland” by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) See more trash like this at Scormey.com2020-06-1759 minLoot MechanicsDeconstructing: Paranoia – Pixels & Dice #167On today’s show, Beoulus and Scormus break down “Paranoia”, one of the most unique tabletop roleplaying games of all time. Music from https://filmmusic.io “Pixelland” by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) See more trash like this at Scormey.com2020-04-0834 min