Rabid Dogs

Rabid Dogs is a zine for Dungeon Crawl Classics. The zine includes 5 new articles for DCC. Here's what we're given:

• I Hate Work - This is a new starting occupation chart. Because Rabid Dogs changes the race as class dynamic and adds dogs as a class (which is technically a race as class), their needed to be a new chart for funnel adventures. This entry also includes a race table.
• Equal People - Features are extracted from the racial classes and turned into classic racial traits, rather than class features. We're give featureso for dwarf, elf, and halfling. We're also given stats for half-dwarves, half-elves, and half-halflings (quarterlings?).
• I'm An Outsider - We're introduced to the Outlier. This is basically the ranger class, though less heroic than the classes origin. It's a wilderness warrior.
• I Wanna Be Your Dog - This is the reason I backed the zine when it was on Kickstarter. DCC 0-level characters have the potential to start with canine companions and they might survive when the character doesn't. This lets those survivors level up like anyone else. The class is fun and like other DCC classes, your alignment affects your progression.
• Road to Ruin - This entry gives us two  roadside encounters: The Hungry Child and Halo of Flies. Both provide some great and memorable opportunities for your character. 

DCC players should definitely pick this one up. Even if you don't want to take away the traditional racial classes, the outlier and dog classes are wonderful additions to the game. If you want to listen to the music that inspired the zine, check out the Breaker Press YouTube Channel. You can get a copy of the zine here.

World's Finest

In honor of Black History Month, I wanted to share this great piece by Butcher Billy.

Country Meat-Grinder Classics - The Hellson Horror

The Hellson Horror is the first in (hopefully) Tim Snider's new line of "hicksploitation" DCC adventures. His vision of Country Meat-Grinder Classics is 1930's Appalachian-like area cut off from "proper" civilization and in a perpetual backwoods tech, knowledge, and society. Guns and cars/trucks exist but aren't reliable.  Folk magic and superstition are common, but powerful stuff is the stuff or demonic bargains and dark witches. That being said, this can definitely be adapted to The Shudder Mountains, Weird Frontiers, or my Portsmaw setting. 

This adventure is for a group of 2nd level characters. Years ago a wealthy family came to the aid of starving locals. Unfortunately this depleted what they had and they couldn't keep up. The matron of the family made an infernal bargain and all were saved. Unfortunately a year ago the payment came due and now they most feed folks to a monstrous creature. The party get involved with their cousin Vinny goes missing on a hunting trip.

Tim has done a fantastic job with this one. I love the Hellsons and he's done a great job coming up with creepy features for the family. With just a sentence or two per family member, he's made them all fall unique. The devil-sows and Hawgziller are great foes too. Finally, as someone that grew up in Appalachia, I appreciate his use of polecat. 

If you want to add a taste of Appalachia to your game, grab a copy here. Below I've listed a few things I'd do to customize the adventure to some compatible settings. 

In Shudder Mountains

Replace guns with bows and the pickups with wagons. Other than that, this really works as is. I think I would change Xxyzxx to 'Ol Blackcloak. This doesn't change things greatly, just gives you more of chance to give exposure to established devils in the setting.

In Weird Frontiers

Really not much needs to change for Weird Frontiers. Like Shudder Mountains just change pickups to stage coaches or wagons. If you want to keep it Appalachian, you could set the adventure in Kentucky. Xxyzxx could become Shub-Niggurath since that fecund entity is said to operate there. 

In Country Crawl Classics

Honestly you don't need to change anything. Maybe add some nudie mags for flavor and make sure someone falls in the swamp crap. I guess you could change the crocodile to a meth-gator if you really wanted.

In Portsmaw

Replace guns and pickups and this works in Portsmaw as is. The taint of Xxzxx could create a sorghum ooze or two.

Succubus Sunday

  

source

Squirrel Girl Saturday

 Today's Squirrel Girl Saturday comes from kittycosplay94.

We Don't Use the Zed Word

I always laugh when zombie movies and shows refuse to ever use the word zombie. George Romero gets a past because he created the modern zombie genre and referred his as ghouls, but others folks, not so much.

Hell Comes To Frogtown (1988)

Synopsis

Nuclear was left most of America a desolate wasteland. Men are rare and mostly shoot blanks... if you know what I mean. Scavenger and legendary lover, Sam Hell, is kidnapped by the government because of his high sperm count. He's sent on a mission with his handler to a mutant settlement known as Frogtown to retrieve kidnapped fertile women. 

Review

Despite the outlandish premise, cheesy look, and b-movie acting (or maybe because of it) this is a really fun movie. Wrestling star Roddy Piper is great as Sam Hell. He's an asshole, but also more complex than he seems. His attitude and things kind of remind me of Ashley J. Williams. Hell he even uses a Three Stooges bit to take down a major villain. The supporting cast are all decent, except for Rory Calhoun, who's brilliant. The mutant frogs (called greeners) don't look too bad. Some are better than others. The animatronics for the boss frog is really good. If you want to have a trashy good time, check this one out.

The movie is often availble to watch for free on Tubi.

In Your Game

Greener

Init +2, Atk unarmed +3 melee (1d4+2) or slugthrower +2 ranged (1d8);  AC 13; HD 2d10+1; MV 30'. 45' jump; Act 1d20; Fort +2, Ref +1, Will +0

Pod People from Mars!

Pod People from Mars! is an adventure for The Monsters Are Our Heroes by Fainting Goat Games. I want to start by saying that cover is awesome! An homage to may classic movies with a monstrous spin. The pdf is 12 pages (counting cover and OGL). 

The story is a combination of Invasion of the Body Snatchers and War of the Worlds. The adventure is five scenes that see your monsters go face to face against both pod people and a Martian tripod. It's a prime example of what an adventure for The Monsters Are Our Heroes should be. A group of monsters come together and face off against a different kind of inhuman foe hellbent on taking over the world and preying on humanity.

It's a well written and fun adventure. Jacob Blackmon did a fantastic job with this one and if you play TMAOH, you need to grab it (which you can do here).

Ash Wednesday - Ashley J Williams (5e)

Let's keep the 5e Evil Dead action going. Head over to DMDave's site to check out his Ashley J. Williams 5e stats. Take this, the angry molesting tree, Deadite, and Necronomicon and Goodman Games 5e update of Keep on the Borderlands and you can totally play the game I've dreamed about since Tim Brannan posted about it years ago:

Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft

 I am “D&D Beyond” ready for this book.

You can read about the book here.

Update:

I just saw the variant cover and had to add it. 

Music Monday - Leave Her Johnny (Little V)

 Here's another pirate metal shanty cover by Little V. 

Music Monday - Assemble

JT Music videos have been featured here many times. Honestly, they are in my top 10 favorite music groups currently creating tunes. If you're an Avengers fan, you might dig this one. I definitely did. Unfortunately, I've heard the game that it was based on is pretty meh. That being said, it's some nice supers inspirational music.

The Monsters Are Our Heroes (Now With Bonus Content)

I've already reviewed the extremely fun horror game The Monsters Are Our Heroes here. The project smashed its print run Kickstarter goal and now that version and the pdf has even more content. The new version of the pdf has everything I mentioned before and a short adventure written by me. 

The Rise of Malachai is a short (four encounter) adventure that can be used as a one shot or inserted into a regular campaign. It sees our monstrous heroes investigating a rash of disappearances in a nearby state forest. It features shambling corpses, hodags, and an undead puritan... everything you need for a good time. 

If you haven't picked up the pdf already, you can snag it here. 

Realistic Superhero Funeral

This animated short may be 10+ years old but it still seems pretty on the mark. I'm not complaining though. The Death of Superman and Reign of the Supermen story arcs cemented my love for comic books.

Succubus Sunday - Kali Neko

If you want to support Kali Neko, her modeling, and cosplay and don't mind NSFW content, she has an OnlyFans.

Playing An RPG

This is pretty ridiculous, but gave me a good laugh. While it's video game related, it makes me think of D&D murderhobos when they contemplate what they've done.

Squirrel Girl Saturday

An old friend sent this to me and I love it! I can't say Squirrel Girl Saturday will be a regular feature, but who knows, it might be.

@supernovatova

#squirrelgirlcosplay #squirrelgirl #marvel

♬ original sound - Sara Hopkins

After Midnight (2019)

Synopsis

Ten years into his relationship, Hank's girlfriend Abby leaves him with just a parting note. While Hank slowly loses himself, thinking about their relationship and its decline, he also starts to slowly lose his grip on reality as a monster attacks his home every night.

Review

Let me say that while I thoroughly enjoyed this one, the synopsis and trailer are misleading. This movie is a long and poignant look at the founding and decay of a relationship. Jeremy Gardner and Brea Grant do a phenomenal job as Hank and Abby. Hank isn't a perfect character and as the movie goes on you get to see more of his flaws. However, ultimately he's still a relatable character. Abby is a delightful love interest and her side of things is definitely understandable. The supporting cast does a great job too. In particular, I loved Hank's hopeless best friend, Wade. There is some monster investigation and a wicked fight at one point, but this really isn't a horror flick. The collapse of Hank's life is much more of a beast than any horror creature and that is the focus of this film. The unknown monster, which could be an indigenous creature or an alien. is more of a framing piece. This isn't a monster movie. This is a movie about relationships. loss, and growth.

In Your Game

I try to keep these things spoiler free, but I will say there is a creature and it looks awesome. Here are Dark Places & Demogorgons stats for it.

After Midnight Creature

Armor Class: 13

Hit Dice/Points: 5 (22 HP)
Move: 20
Actions: 1
Attack: 2 Claws (1d6) or 1 Tail Stinger (1d4 + poison) 

Bonuses: +3 to Melee attacks, +2 to damage, +3 to stealth rolls

Special: The creature can move in a straight line and still make an attack.  The creature's poison causes anyone to fail a save against it to suffer disadvantage on all physical rolls until rest for an hour.

Morale: 7

Terror: 12
HDE: 4

Here's a bonus disgusting bit of gaming material. 

Gorilla Fart

Some barflies are so desperate they'll drink the melted ice and overflow that fills up a bar mat. This noxious mat juice is known as a gorilla fart. While it will get someone drunk quickly, you must make a Poison Saving Throw with Disadvantage to not throw up. It reportedly tastes like "goin' blind."

Mortal Kombat (2020)

 One of my favorite game franchises is getting a movie reboot that's coming to HBO Max and Theaters in April. Check the newly debuted red-band trailer for Mortal Kombat.

There is definitely game-able content here. I see some 5e content in the future after I watch this. Since the video games have crossed over with DC and Spawn, there may be some 5e supers content too.

Zombicide: Undead or Alive

I love the Zombicide games and CMON make great miniatures. Combine that with my love of the weird west and you know Zombicide: Undead or Alive Kickstarter has my interest. I can't guarantee I'll back it, but I probably will (especially since I could really use some weird west minis).

Gizmo Returns...

 ... in a Mtn Dew Zero commercial alongside Billy (Zach Galligan). 

It's cute and I like the new Gizmo look. Also, Mtn Dew Zero isn't too bad.

Grognautical - The Kittyman

Before my second hospitalization last year I was working on a nautical zine for 5e. Called Grognautical, it would feature the piracy cleric domain, new oceanic creatures, npcs, and other content of that nature. I've started working on it gain. One of the npc's featured will be inspired by this sea shanty I recently shared. My friend Devan is going to try to come up with a piece of artwork for him. This is the format I'm thinking, though I'm not sold on it. If  you have suggestions on the format, let me know.

The Kittyman

While he may seem simple to some, the gnomish sailor known as the Kittyman is far more intelligent that he initially appears. An accomplished carpenter and engineer, he is a valuable member of any crew lucky enough to gain his service. While his moniker is unusual, anyone who has seen him faun over a cat or cat-like creature, know that it suits him perfectly. Whether through divine magic or purity of heart, they tend to show him the same reverence.  It is said even mighty Rakshasa treat him cordially and exclude them from their schemes.

Stats : As Bandit Captain with the following additional abilities:

Now That’s  A Pretty Kitty: The Kittyman has advantage on all social rolls when dealing with felines (including monstrous and humanoid ones).

The Kittyman Comes: Conscious feline allies (including monstrous and humanoid ones) receive advantage on saving throws when they are within 60 ft of the Kittyman.

Conan the Animated (Fan Short)

 This is a pretty cool animated Conan short.

Ash Wednesday - The Evil Dead (5E)

 Now you can add Kandarian Demons to you game (to accompany angry molesting trees and the Necronomicon). The post (which can be found here) contains stats for the Kandarian Demon itself, plus Deadite templates for objects, plants, corpses/bones, and humanoids. The new stats end with the Kandarian Dagger, a mighty fiend slaying weapon. 

Displacer Cock

This post is based on home décor my sister has. I also just wanted an excuse to type "displacer cock" a bunch.

Displacer Cock

Small monstrosity, lawful evil

Armor Class: 11 (dexterity)

HP: 52  (8d6+24)

Speed: 20 ft., fly 40ft.

STR:  6 (-2), DEX: 12 (+1), CON: 16 (+3), 

INT: 6 (-2), WIS: 13 (+1), CHA: 8 (-1)

Saving Throws: Con + 5

Senses: Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception: 11

Languages: --

Challenge: 1 (200 XP)

Proficiency Bonus: +2

Displacement. The displacer cock projects a magical illusion that makes it appear to be standing near its actual location, causing attack rolls against it to have disadvantage. If it is hit by an attack, the trait is disrupted until the end of its next turn. The trait is also disrupted while the displacer cock is incapacitated or has a speed of 0.

Actions:

Multiattack: The displacer cock can make three attacks with its tentacles. 

Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 3 (1d4 + 1) piercing damage and the target must succeed on a DC 11 Constitution saving throw against being magically petrified. On a failed save, the creature begins to turn to stone and is restrained. It must repeat the saving throw at the end of its next turn. On a success, the effect ends. On a failure, the creature is petrified for 24 hours.

Tentacles: Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 3 (1d4 + 1) bludgeoning damage plus 3 (1d6) piercing damage.

Music Monday - I'm Not A Vampire (Revamped)

Falling In Reverse is a band that has a lot of haters (mostly due to the lead singers past and antics), but I love them. Recently they've been doing really epic reinvisionings of some of their biggest hits. Last week they dropped this epic gothic version of their track, I'm Not A Vampire. I love the gothic aesthetic of the the video and that vocalist, Ronnie Radke, put his gorgeous former wrestler girlfriend, Paige, in it.

Also if you're curious, the original was an entirely different pop rock experience.

The Borderlands/The Final Prayer (2013)

Synopsis

A group of investigators from the Vatican are sent to check out a strange phenomenon in a small rural English church. The pair are (for the most part) skeptical at first, but soon found out that there is something going on. 

Review

I'm not going to spoil it, but the movie is a slow burn with a phenomenal ending. There are some seriously creepy moments throughout the film too. While some folks might not like the found footage nature of the film, it works well within the narrative. 

The dynamic between the protagonists, Deacon and Grey, is fantastic and feels natural. Deacon is a kind but skeptical priest because of all he's seen. While Grey isn't religious and more tech savvy, he's way more open to belief. They have great chemistry.

While this could change, it's currently available to watch for free here in the States on Tubi.

In Your Game

This movie would be a great Call of Cthulhu scenario. While I don't talk about the game much anymore, because of decisions made by the creator, I think this adventure would be a great Lamentations of the Flame Princess adventure. 

Music Monday - Wellerman (Little V)

As Tim recently pointed out, sea shanties are in again. I have no problem with this. A metal guitarist I love has recently started doing pirate metal covers of classic shanties.

Love's Labour's Liabilities Review

Love's Labour's Liabilities is the follow up to Love's Labour's Liberated. Unlike the first, which was greatly delayed, the pdf for this volume in the series dropped today (less than 24 hours after the project funded). Like the previous zine, this one has romance oriented content for 5e. There's also quite a bit of lightning themed content, which I'll be honest, confused me at first. Here's a closer look at the content.

The pdf begins with a few dedications from backers to their loved ones, well currently there is only one. However, there are others that will be included in the final version. After this there is a well written discussion on romance and consent in gaming. While some argue this isn't needed, it's a good thing to discuss and I approve of its inclusion. This also mentions the idea of the X-Card which was included in the original and this volume. This is followed by a fantastic poem about desire and love.

The Elemental Lightning Lord otherworldly warlock patron is the first crunch we're presented with. It's an interesting idea too, because it deals with a forced relationship. It embodies the perversion of love. While it thinks it has control over you, you use this power to gain your freedom. The patron grants a series of storm-centric spells to your warlock list and some interesting powers. You gain a few interesting damage abilities and one really cool movement one. The top tier warlock power you grant is unique. It gives you a go big or go home attack against a foe.

The other new classic archetype in the zine is the Way of the Broken Heart monk. Many characters are galvanized and built upon a great loss of a loved one. The archetypes abilities and focus are built upon that. What's interesting is the abilities are all named after four of the five stages of overcoming grief (depression is omitted). I am a fan of this archetype, though I can understand how some might see it as playing on the "women in the fridge trope." I believe the archetype is more than that though. You could use multiple types of trauma to justify the class, not just the loss of a lover.

There are two new backgrounds. The first is the child of the elements. This background is based on someone that was whisked away by an elemental being, such as a genie and raised. There is a variant that you were kidnapped and/or imprisoned by an elemental. The other background is the chaste. This background works on the premise that the character abstains from something (not necessarily love) until they obtain the perfect version. These are both interesting backgrounds. The chaste makes sense based on the romance centered content, but initially the child of the elements is another potentially lightning themed entry.

After backgrounds we have two new feats. The first is Lightning Rod which seems pretty powerful, though also specific which might balance it out. The other is Heart Felt Defense which I like because I'm a fan of bodyguard style abilities.

There are four new spells. None of these are lightning related and all are centered around devotion and the heart. 

There are six new monsters:

• Cupid - these celestials seem like an obvious addition to the game
• Eyes of the Storm - these extremely powerful elementals see themselves as gods and definitely have tie to the Elemental Lightning Lord
• Lightning Elemental - given all of the other lightning based content, the inclusion of these elementals is a no brainer
• Missile Mistletoe - this symbiotic (rather than parasitic) sentient mistletoe may be related to the mistletoe that slayed Baldur.
• Millhive - this bearshaped honey beehive creature is fantastic and frightening. I can't wait to use them
• Ghost General - a phantom that while once a symbol of devotion, now seeks to destruction, using undead minions and magic

There are five really flavorful new magic items. They are utterly quest worthy and have a fairy tale/fable quality that I adore.

There two love related adventure hooks. I appreciate the inclusion of a CW with one. Both are cool and I really want to use the Shelter one, especially given my love of succubi.

The final bit of content is a nine page piece of fiction that gives context to all of the lightning based content. It's a nice little piece that includes some content warnings at the beginning and deals with some series issues,

If you're looking for some new themed content for your 5e game, this is a great addition to your collection. As a hopeless romantic myself, I love it. Currently only the pdf is available (and only to backers). Once it becomes available to the public, I'll let you fine folks know. 

Love and Monsters (2020)

Synopsis

Seven years after Earth's creatures mutated and caused a Monsterpocalypse, wimpy but sweet, Joel leaves the (relative) safety of his underground bunker to reconnect with his high school sweetheart, Aimee. Along the way he encounters all sorts of mutant animals and learns how to survive and grow.

Review

I really loved this movie. Dylan O'Brien has a wonderful wimpy charisma. He's just a likable guy and shows real character growth. I also appreciated that as you learned more about him, you kind of understood why he was the way he was.  Michael Rooker and Ariana Greenblatt are fantastic as Clyde and Minnow. They are a fun pair of survivors. They are sweet and funny. 

The movie is far more emotional that I expected. I didn't think it would hit me the way it did. Honestly, the Mav1s scenes had me tearing up. 

The monsters look amazing! If you want to see why the giant frogs in the Moathouse are scary, watch this one. Same if you want to see how horrific ankhegs and other giant insectile creatures are.

This is a fun coming of age adventure mixed with a creature flick. 

In Your Game

Monster Apocalypse Survival Guide

Authored by survivor of the Monsterpocalypse, this illustrated journal guide covers flora and fauna is an invaluable for those wanting to stay alive in the wilds. It provides advantage on Nature and Survival checks and rolls related to creature knowledge. 

Danny Eros, God of Love

 Danny Trejo posted this pic today and I had to make content based on it.

Danny Eros

Armor Class: 15

Hit Dice/Points: 8 (40 HP)
Move: 15
Actions: 2
Attack: Fist (1d6) or Cupid's Bow (1d6) - 100'/150' range

Bonuses: Toughness +5, +5 to attacks, +2 to damage, +5 to investigation rolls, +10 to seduction rolls

Special: Can speak, read, and write any language, Match Maker(see below),  unless he starts his turn with less than 1 HP he regenerates 5 HP at the beginning on his turn

Morale: 10

HDE: 10

Special Abilities:

Matchmaker: Danny can choose to shoot a love arrow. This magical arrow does no damage. However, if hit, the target must make a Magic Saving Throw or become enamored with the first living individual that fits its romantic orientation (and is of acceptable age).

Born in Los Angelos, this demigod is the son of Cupid/Eros and drug counselor. Despite some early run-ins with the law, he eventually followed in his mother's footsteps and became a pillar of his community. During his twenties he learned of his father's true heritage. Having a great sense of humor he occasionally dons cherubic garments and plays matchmaker.

Succubus Sunday - Valentines Day (NSFW)

 Here's a double dose of Valentines Day love from Mau Sanchez.

Escape From Skullcano Island Trailer

 Check out this amazing fan trailer for Escape from Skullcano Island!

Now check out my review and advice on using it with established D&D settings. 

Stuff of Legends - Episode II

 The second episode of Stuff of Legends is live.

• The game started with a "this isn't for kids" disclaimer. 
• I liked the barbed devil puppet. 
• Have a Barbed Devil being compared to a cat penis is something I'd never thought of before... or would have wanted to hear.
• Slippy is my favorite character. A kuo-toa rogue with anger issue that likes to get naked rub on his enemies sounds fun to me. 
• The Prisoner's Carnival is a cool setting. Having looked it up, it's done in the city of Luskan, not Waterdeep. Luckily I'm not looking for continuity in a comedic puppet-based D&D game. 
• The shows at the Carnival were fun. I need to include something like this in my next game.
• Not really sure where the show is going, but I'm entertained.

He Sees Right Through Me

 This is so adorable! Ginny Di has written a love song for her elatinous cutie cosplay.

Ash Wednesday - Angry Molesting Tree (5E)

 I haven't posted an Ash Wednesday post in a while. Haven't been inspired to create content for it. That hasn't stopped other folks though. I love BenDjinn's blog and he recently did stats for Angry Molesting Trees. This will go along well with his Necronomicon stats. 

Click the link above to get a better quality (and easier to read) version of the image.

Daicon III and IV Openings

Earlier today my friend shared these short films with me. Originally they released as two anime 8 minute 8 mm films produced for Daicon III and Daicon IV conventions in 1981 and 1983. They were animated by Daicon Film, which would later become the anime studio Gainax.  This version of the video has been graphically enhanced. It is full of geek references and you need to check it out. 

My personal favorite parts are her being chased by Kaiju, flying around on Elric's blade Stormbringer, fighting Darth Vader, and the Xenomorph wielding Discovery One as a weapon.

Music Monday - Feminist Sea Shanties

 I've started work on Grognautical again. To get inspiration I've been playing Assassins Creed Black Flag, watching swashbuckling and nautical films, and checking, and listening to sea shanties and hurdy gurdy music. This lead me to the discovery of this Key & Peele sketch.

I got a few good laughs out of it. Semi-related to the subject of the shanties I was reading this article earlier and thought I'd share it with this post. If you don't want to read the article, you can check out video it's about here.  Moral of the story is don't be a shit heel and saying someone can't take a joke when you get called out for it just makes you look even more dumb. 

GrimBlade Kickstarter and Review

 Right now, the other half of The Lone Bards, Josh, has a Kickstarter project going on for ZineQuest 3. 

I've had a chance to talk to Josh about the game and take a look at the pdf and thought I'd give a short review. 

The pdf is _ pages and features writing and artwork all done by Josh. If you aren't familiar with his art, you can check it out here. While there may be some extra goodness added, the rules and such are only 8 pages. That's because GrimeBlade is a highly customizable, but concise game.

Players roll a single d6. The GM rolls an opposing Grim Roll. The die used in these rolls depends on how difficult and dark the task is. These rolls can be modified by Advantage or Disadvantage. Unlike the roll twice and use the better or lesser roll, these modifiers either add or subtract 1d4. Players life force is measured in Hope and their opponents in Glum. Opposed rolls change these totals in combat. PC's and NPC's use skills to do things. These traits define what a character or monster does, and show specializations and such.

Characters roll on character types. backgrounds, and skills charts during character creation. I absolutely love the skills because while traditional skills are self explanatory, specialty skills are decided up by players and GM's. For example let's say you "Negative Version." What does it do? Do is cause someone to act in an opposite manner. Does it create a Nega version of a target? This is up to you and your GM. 

The pdf ends with three threats/monsters. They're pretty bizarre and gruesome looking. They are also good examples of how to create opposition for players.

I'm really proud of Josh and this project. It's a great and easy to play game that encourages creativity. You can back the project here. It has eleven days to go and is close to 75% funded.

Music Monday - Diggy Diggy Hole (Dance Remix)

I'm all about goblin dj's and elven honeys.

Also, here are the original version of Diggy Diggy Hole and the Wind Rose's original version.

Music Monday - Ready for the Floor

 Enjoy this 60's Batman inspired video by Hot Chip.

Do you ever use death traps in your games? I know most folks include them in D&D, but what about supers games?

Pocket Tome of Wondrous Items

I discovered a nifty little zine in a Facebook group, Pocket Tome of Wondrous Items is the first paid release from Michael Putlack. It's a printable pocket zine with 9 magic items for 5e. Some are humorous, but all are super quirky. If you grab the zine, Michael has also included instructions on how to print and fold it. If you have a few gold pieces extra, why not support a new creator?

 

Succubus Sunday

Source

 

Ratatoskyr, King of Insults

As you might have guessed from this Character Creation Challenge post, I'm a fan of the Norse squirrel of legend. Ratotaskyr has appeared in several video games recently. Here are some fun videos of these appearances. 

God of War

Assassin's Creed Valhalla 

SMITE

Kaldheim Cinematic (Extended Cut)

Wizards of the Coast has released an extended cut of their Kaldheim trailer. In addition to Kaya's troll fighting and Tibalt's machination, this version this adds scenes with Inga Rune-Eyes and Sarulf, Realm Eater.

The Lore of Kaldheim

A channel I love, WhatCulture Gaming, has teamed up with Wizards of the Coast to deliver some cool info about the the new MtG set, Kaldheim. 

After watching these videos, I really want this to be a D&D 5e setting.

Genial Jack: Volume 2 Review

While the first issue of Genial Jack gave an overview of the Godwhale and the society that dwelt on and in him, the second issue details the living dungeon inside him. The focus of issue two is all about his guts. The dungeon is designed for low level adventurers, but there are several really tough creatures found inside. 

Of course, like any good adventure we're given several adventure hooks. This is followed by 8 items that prove helpful to those braving Jack's entrails. 

A new druidic circle related to Jack's entrails is detailed. The Circle of the Gutgarden uses magic that's been blended with ancient technoscience to affect "animalcules" that surround living beings. The class grants gaseous related spells and abilities. It kind of reminds me of the Circle of Spores from The Guildmaster's Guide to Ravnica and Tasha's Cauldron of Everything.

There are some interesting rules for the perils of adventuring inside a giant Godwhale's intestinal track. A random encounter chart with 20 unique intestinal encounters follows the perils.

There are several pages of magical items, lost within the Godwhale. Some of these are unique treasures. Others are less rare. There are some cool items, some of which tie into the first issue, such as the Crown of Y's. 

The majority of the oversized zine is dedicated to locations within the small intestine, the wild town of Herniaheim, and the large intestine. There are so many unique places to explore. There are various ruins, wrecks, and monster lairs to keep characters busy for many levels. I like these locations because they are well organized and include sensory bits. For example, a location might mention the sound or smell of the area. They also include people, perils, or plunder you might find within. 

The zine ends with numerous stat blocks for important npcs and unique monsters found inside Jack's digestive track. I have to say, I had a good laugh at the sections name "Colonic Creatures."  My favorite of these is the True Vampire Squid. This undead leviathan is quite frightening. 

I was not let down by the second issue of Genial Jack. I'm pretty sure this release has cemented my resolve to run a nautical 5e game as soon as I can. You can get the pdf and print on demand versions here.

Gotta Get Paid!

 Here's a short video to give you some giggles. 

Magic and Sh*t!

Thirty plus magical items and artifacts inspired by metal? If that doesn't sound cool to you, you probably wouldn't have much fun at my gaming table.

As the video above lets us know, Magic and Shit: Weird Fantasy For Your OSR RPG's is a collection of wild and unique collection of bizarre magic items for your OSR game. Levi writes the dopest content. I will die on the hill to defend that statement. I love everything he's released so far, and I know this is going to be just as good. Even if you don't play OSR games, I have no doubt the content will be worthy of adaptation. Personally, I'm going to give it the 5e treatment. 

You only have four days left to back this wild ride. Go here and do it now. 

Beware, Beware, the Muppetborn Comes

My friend, Alex, shared this on Facebook earlier, which is funny considering the debut of Stuff of Legend this week. Check out more content from the creator BJ Hypes.

Centaur Cosplay

 Check out this wicked costume created by Kyle Scheele!

Penicillin Issue 3

Today I'm going to take a look at Penicillin Issue #3. As I've mentioned before, the Penicillin zine is an interesting mix of rpg content and art. You can read my reviews of issue 1 and 2.

Unlike the previous issues that just featured OSR content, issue three includes content for other games. For example, the first article is for Troika!. The Peridgim is an infernal creature (though not necessarily evil and not a true demon) that feeds on passion. The article includes monster stats and a player background for the Peridem.

The second feature is "the wrong place." This is a combination of comic and game. It's system agnostic and made for at least two players. It features wonderful gothic artwork from Kaylee Rowena. 

The third article is written for basic D&D. It discusses dwarves in a non-traditional way, much like the halflings in issue two. There's a discussion of orichalcum. These unique metal-eating dwarves are given the race-as-class treatment. I like these dwarves and while I might not replace standard dwarves with them, I like them as a subrace, perhaps one that sees themselves as the most pure of their race.

The fourth feature is called The Rose' Fountain, Home of the Dynamos Nymphs. I really like this one (and yes I'm a big fan or rose'). This is a unique set piece is cheeky, but fun. The nymphs and their hangers-on are given stats and some unique traits. This might be my favorite entry in the zine.

The fifth article present medicinal amphibians. The article starts with a bit of fiction, but mostly consists of random charts. A total of ten charts let you customize your experience. It's a random, but fun article. It also made me think of this Family Guy episode and song.

Nacre, City of the Squid and the Snail is next. This sixth feature is four pages discussing and underground city. The article as a whole is written as a creative writing journey. This gives a nice overview of the city though. There are several sidebars. Hirelings, things to buy, encounters, and land marks are all discussed. This is an odd one (like anything in the zine isn't, right?). This is a cool infernal underground city and could make an interesting addition to any D&D game.

Alligator Blood is a one page creative writing piece. It's a pitch for a drug and I really enjoyed it, even if there are no mechanics.

The final article is called So You Contacted an Outer Horror. This one includes several charts that would be useful in any game that includes Yog-Sotothery.  The charts are as follows:

• In what terrible form is it glimpsed?
• What did it represent when it was worshipped in strange eons?
• How can the entity be called?
• What dark powers may it provide for mortals?
• What will it take for such boons?
• What horrid plane does it come from?
• How can it be released?
• What truth is there to its form?
• What does it draw power from?
• What oblivion would follow in its wake?

This is a great chart and honestly, you could base a whole game on this. 

Once again, I'm happy I picked this one up. These zines are weird and I'm not sure I'll ever use them. Still, they really interesting zines to read and have quite a bit of artistic merit. You can purchase the pdf of the issue here.

Stuff of Legends - Episode I

The first episode of Stuff of Legends debuted earlier this week. DM'd by Jovenshire the short series features a group of folks playing a modified version of 5e. What makes the show different is that the scenes that take place in the game are recreated with some Muppet-like puppets. 

The Cast

• Lisa Foiles (Actor and Author) as Magellica Plum (Human Wizard Apprentice) 
• Brandon Rogers (Comedian) as Slippy Richardson (Kuo-Toa Rogue) 
• Shanna Malcom (Actor) as Areola Borealis (Dragonborn Barbarian)
• Lasercorn (Digital Personality and Podcaster) as Hatchet Hand (Dwarf Pirate)

Thoughts

• This episode is just over a half-hour long, which makes it easy to digest. 
• The group is mostly newbies and they take time to explain what they are doing.
• I dig the comedic nature of the show and I think Muppets meet D&D is a fantastic idea.
• While I enjoyed the first episode and they edit most of the language out (except ass), I feel like this is a missed opportunity. This would have been a great family game, but that doesn't work when the dragonborn barbarian is named Areola and describes her rage as "constantly being on PMS." This is an issue with most Wizards actual play stuff, it's not kid friendly. 

Champions of the Electrocube War Omnibus

The Champions of the Electrocube War Omnibus is compilation of the core rules of Valor Knights: The Electrocube Wars (with new art, since it's released by FGG), and Champions of the Electrocube War Volumes 1, 2, and 3. If you click those links, you'll see why I recommend this one.  

You can snag the pdf and print on demand version here. 

Genial Jack On DriveThruRPG!

Genial Jack is a really interesting 5e setting by Lost Pages. Jack is a god whale that is the host to a cosmopolitan city. While nautical in nature, it reminds me of Sigil, the hub of the Planescape setting. That's high praise from me, given that Planescape is one of my all time favorite D&D settings. 

I reviewed the first volume last year. You can now get a print on demand version from DriveThruRPG. This is good news, because originally the zine was only available from the UK publisher or occasionally Exalted Funeral, which meant shipping was costly.  

The second issue is now available too. I'll be picking up a copy when I have some extra money. I'll make sure to review it when I do.

Until then expect a how to use Genial Jack in an Exandria game later this week.

The Class Alphabet for DCC RPG Available Now!

 It's been in the works for a long time and is many years late, but The Class Alphabet for DCC is now available. This project, spearheaded by my gaming brother and muse, David Coppoletti, was started back in the days of Google Plus. It was created by a real who's who of talented folks (and me). 

It includes content by James V. West, Stephen Murrish, Anne Hunter, Victor Garrison, Jarrett Crader, David Baity, Julian Bernick, R.S. Tilton, Wayne Snyder, Claytonian, Diogo Nogueira, Noah Stevens, David Coppoletti, Jeff Goad, Jon Wilson, Reid San Filippo, Justin Isaac, Forres.

It includes art by Danny Prescott, James V. West, Davey Parrott, Jane Elisabeth Thomas, David Coppoletti, Evlyn Moreau, Jon Wilson, R.S. Tilton, Claytonian, Diogo Nogueria, KJ O'Brien, David Lewis Johnson, Ray Otus, Karl Stjernberg, Anna Costa, and Rick Kammer.

I'm going to be honest, I'm totally geeking out that my work is in the same book that features from these folks. Even more so, my class features artwork from one of my favorites, James V. West! 

The book is a wild collection of classes. While they might not work in every game, if you're a fan of Dungeon Crawl Classics, I guarantee you are going to find something in here you like.

Once I get my grubby mitts on a physical copy, I'll make sure to post a review. You can get yours here.

Destination: Uncharted Kickstarter

 Destination: Uncharted, despite the name, is not a new reality show on Discovery or the Travel Channel. No, Destination: Uncharted is the newest game from Bloat Games. 

Think of this game as the table top version of Uncharted, Indiana Jones, The Mummy, or Tomb Raider. It's designed to be a comedic action-packed romp. It will use the Hack the RPG ruleset, making it totally compatible with Valor Knights: The Electrocube War and The Monsters Are Our Heroes. 

The project has a quick turn around time (5 days) and has already funded, with 3 days left. While no official comment has been made, I may or may not be contributing to the project. 

Check out the project here and considering backing it.

Stuff of Legends

 Is this real life?

The answer is yes, apparently. Stuff of Legends is a new miniseries (?) by Jovenshire and has an official partnership with D&D. Here's the trailer which discusses the premise.

I mean, I'm morbidly curious. The humor looks pretty high school-ish, but I do love puppets. The first episode debuts tonight. I might check it out.

Music Monday - The Kittyman Sea Shanty

 I love sea shanties, kitties, and Trailer Park Boys... so you can bet your ass I love this.

Character Creation Challenge Links

During the month of January I took part in the Character Creation Challenge. I created a total of  34 characters for 31 games (counting game variations).  I had fun and I might do it again next year. I'll link all the post below.

• The Monsters Are Our Heroes - El Monstruo Emmascarado
• Freebooters - "Punloving" Rian Lang
• Six-Shooters & Wagons - Deputy Jedediah Lang
• The Zombie Hack - Jeffrey Ryan Lang
• The Vigilante Hack - Zip
• Survive This!! Zombies 2nd Edition - Stephen "Stevie" Sloan Jr. 
• Light City - The Marxman II
• Swords & Wizardry Light - Critter
• Gangbusters B/X Edition - Battling Bugsy Malone
• White Star - Prisoner 740
• Guardians - Kotyr Ratatoskrson
• Vigilante City - The Hood
• Valor Knights: The Electrocube Wars - Firestorm
• The Blackest of Deaths - Nulks
• 5th Evolution: Carbide City - Belle of the Brawl
• Army of Darkness - Justin "Pun" Isaac
• Dark Places & Demogorgons - Zakk Brodie
• Dungeons & Dragons 5E - Sam Whoreson
• 5th Evolution 80's Horror - Terror in the Tunnels - Eric Palmer
• WWE: Know Your Role! - Trik Nasty
• Slashers & Victims Light - Jeremiah Rose
• 5th Evolution: White Chapel Vigilance Committee - Grayson Todd
• All Flesh Must Be Eaten - Justin "Pun" Isaac
• The Blackest Space - Griz O'Janen
• Buffy: The Vampire Slayer - Joel Richards
• White Box: Fantastic Medieval Adventure Game - Sten Heavyhand
• Terra Primate - Conspiracy Theorist
• Dungeon Crawl Classics - Timmons, Renic, Ollo Fishknot, Warren
• Skull & Crosssbones Classics - Nathanial the Noose
• 5th Evolution: World War II - Mystery in the Sahara - Scot Worthington
• Apes Victorious - Justinian