Specifically, the podcast ends by cutting off DM Chris Perkins mid-sentence. I understand it must sometimes be tough to find a good spot to end these things, but cutting it mid-sentence is harsh and even a bit rude.
DM: "At this point, we can all ro-"
Considering how long this has been in the pipeline, that's just poor.
That being said, I was really glad to have another installment to listen to!
Keep em coming!
The second episode of the Penny Arcade D&D podcast is online, so if you've been shivering with antici... pation since we rolled for initiative last week, grab yer boots and get ready to dance.
The bad-guys are shifting away from the fighter without taking an attack!
Seriously. Scott Kurtz is like the worst 4e fighter ever. I don't know that we've ever heard him mark an enemy.
I never would have thought that minor (no insult intended!) celebrity gaming sessions existed nor would be fun and interesting to hear! I don't think I've bought a D&D product since the 3.0 Player's Handbook which I believe had an irresistible price point (and I don't think I ever played with it), but I am considering grabbing something newer soon, maybe the PH2 (which is probably what the makers of this series would love to hear!).
The sound seemed a little louder in this episode which was good, because I had to turn it way up on the first one. (Might just be my aging system.)
The page announcing each installment should link to a more specific forum or ideally discussion thread.
And I'd like to see some character stats. They might not mean much to me just yet, but I'm sure many listeners would enjoy them. If these are already out there, hopefully someone can point me to them.
Note that the link goes to WIl Wheatons Safe for Work blog site, not the totally not safe for work Suicide Girls page.
In any case, the relevant portion of his blog is:
[indent]My 4E experience started with character creation, which I did sitting on the floor of my office with pencils and paper, the Player's Handbook, and the Adventurer's Vault. I know there are online tools available to do it all for you, but I couldn't bring myself to use them; I'm an original analog gamer, man, that's just how I roll. (4d6 and drop the lowest FTW.) It took awhile because while I had read the books, I had never tried to use them, and there was some page-flipping while I wrapped my brain around the system. However, and this is crucial, I never got frustrated or felt bored. The process took some time because I had a learning curve and because there are several decisions to make, not because I was confused or because the rules were disorganized.[/indent]
Anyone else not able to download the 3rd podcast? The page is up but the link is dead.
Same here.
Perhaps one of us can find an email account to notify that will be able to remedy this? (Or we can wait for someone to notice these forum posts.)
The poking must have worked, cause iTunes downloaded it.
GREAT SUCCESS! Your poking awoke the slumbering beast, it seems.
A few side notes.
Wil's character name is Aeofel Elhromane. I dug around his blog comments and he states so. Wizards is taking the easy way out by going by his nickname "Al". Naughty naughty.
Also, am I the only one who thinks Chris had a wonderful, theatrical voice? Somehow his voice is just so impressive and perfect for storytelling.
BTW, Lahara is the same name as my female Tiefling Warlord. Funny.
But I digress. It is a bit of a joke, yes, but they could have put "Al" in quotes since it's his forced nickname. That, and after listening to him say his name seven or eight times, I gave up and HAD to find out how it was spelt. Basically I didn't know what he was saying. Nice way to draw in the audience, Wil.
And I really wish there was a PvP and Penny Arcade comic for each podcast like the first time around. Their art is just awesome, and somehow I really get a feel for the characters. The podcasts are way too much fun, mostly since it's a bunch of very funny guys joking around.
As funny as the tuna was, I think I'll keep it on the side.
I will confess: I stole it from Summoner.
Yeah, same here. I figured as much
Why isn't Wil adding his proficiency bonus to his attack rolls with his weapon??
Is there something about the Avenger class that prohibits that?
And more importantly to me...is he so oblivious to other guys characters that he isn't asking himself "gee, why is it that I only add +4 to my attack rolls and my party members are all adding +6, +7 and even +9?"...
I'm not saying Wil is dumb or anything...I love reading his blog and stuff having grown up watching him on TV and having sons about the same age range as his....but...come on...
How about a little situational awareness dude??!
He should have printed out a character sheet at the least and filled it out. It would have helped him greatly. But hey, Wil's still human, so he forgets. In a recent blog post he said he needed to reboot his positronic brain.
But what is important is he's having fun. Even when he has to send the naughty die to the
off bag.Why isn't Wil adding his proficiency bonus to his attack rolls with his weapon??
Is there something about the Avenger class that prohibits that?
And more importantly to me...is he so oblivious to other guys characters that he isn't asking himself "gee, why is it that I only add +4 to my attack rolls and my party members are all adding +6, +7 and even +9?"...
I was thinking the same thing.
My one thought at some point was that his powers were "spell-like" in that they don't allow you to add the prof. bonus of a weapon to the attack roll (like a warlock with a pact blade, IIRC). But then at one point he's reading through a power's description and says "keywords ... weapon" or "implement" or something that just rang a bell in my head.
I know it's all just for fun, and they're long since done with the session. But I really have to try hard not to scream into my headphones (at work no less) at him.
Guess you all enjoyed the third episode. I was ansy to leave for class and kept trying to download it to my iPod so I could listen to it in transit. I managed, and couldn't stop laughing at some points. It resulted in people staring.
I listened to it while riding my bicycle to work and the, um, tuna discussion made me lol, which got me a few looks from people I passed.
Also, am I the only one who thinks Chris had a wonderful, theatrical voice? Somehow his voice is just so impressive and perfect for storytelling.
Oh, I agree. He has a wonderful voice.
BTW, does anyone have a photo of the floorplan/dungeon tiles Chris pulled out when the party dropped down into the hole? Wil tried to describe it, but I'd still like to see it.
As for the floorplan, no. Chris didn't post it, and I think the others (Wil, PvP, or Penny Arcade) didn't post any photos as far as I know. Unless Chris used something like Dwarven Forge or the like, I'm pretty sure he used a combination of dungeon tiles and foam board. Maybe a combination of all of them? Making 1" models of colmuns and scaffolding out of foam board is time consuming but not impossible.
Jeez. That give me the image of them playing D&D with doll furniture and saying the tuna line.
I guess you use what works.If I had handwritten all my character stuff (and I know I would be equally excited to play with everyone there and Chris Perkins as the DM) I probably would have made the same mistakes. I don't think Wil frequents this site so much and knew about the character builder at the time.
The proficiency bonuses are a little confusing when you first come to 4th, but they make sense (and I like them) once you've actually started playing.
I imagine Chris was too busy focusing on keeping the game on track to notice.
I *really* love these new podcasts, I think having them play through a custom adventure is a lot better than just a few encounters from KotSF, this way I don't know what's coming! :O
Who else thinks that Wizards should produce a special set of Minis for Al, Jim, Binwin and Omin? I know I do! :P
First crossbow man, in awe of the residual blue sparkles of Jim's magic, says "What is that?"
The other gapes a bit. "I think that's Jim Darkmagic..."
The first turns to his ally in shock. "Of the New Hampshire Darkmagics??"
The second points a nervous finger in Jim's direction. "Dude, they just got Darkmagic magicked!!"
Yeeahhh... I have too much free time it seems.
I keep trying to get the motivation to do some Jim Darkmagic art myself.
I keep using the term "Darkmagic magic'ed!" wherever I can. Wil's voice was so excited! XD
I'm going to listen to the latest one again now!
OH, if you don't listen to the Penny Arcade podcast already check it out, in their latest one "The Old Ways" they talk about Mike's own game of D&D that he is running.
Who else thinks that Wizards should produce a special set of Minis for Al, Jim, Binwin and Omin? I know I do! :P
I second that, so very much. Especially if, rather than being "traditional" DnD minis, they were designed by Kurtz or Gabe.
Heck, I'd really be happy with a full comic detailing the in-character adventures of Acquisitions Incorporated through both of the podcasts.
I just really, really wish that they had two comics per podcast like the first "season". Mike and Scott are awesome artists, and really capture their characters well.
Am I the only one hoping for the return of Splug? I think even James Wyatt had a soft spot for him. Also, another funny mini could be made of him. Just a very nervous looking goblin. I'd like to believe Splug survived the first podcast... but he seems to have vanished (although Fallcrest probably wouldn't allow him around.) Jim couldn't even remember his name!
Ok I honestly haven't read through this whole thread....
The whole thread, eh? You're on the first page, man. :D
Who else thinks that Wizards should produce a special set of Minis for Al, Jim, Binwin and Omin? I know I do! :P
Honestly, I will be genuinely surprised and disappointed if they don't do a small boxed set with minis.
Also I really like an efficient podcast. A ton of extra stuff in it, like long intro songs and stuff like that, are, imho, not necessary.
So if it's done, finish it.
Am I the only one hoping for the return of Splug? I think even James Wyatt had a soft spot for him. Also, another funny mini could be made of him. Just a very nervous looking goblin. I'd like to believe Splug survived the first podcast... but he seems to have vanished (although Fallcrest probably wouldn't allow him around.) Jim couldn't even remember his name!
If you're looking for more Splugg action, check out the 4th ed actual play podcasts on rpgmp3.com, where splugg joins the team and gets a hilarous starring role. He's still there up to the end of Thunderspire Labyrinth!
If you're looking for more Splugg action, check out the 4th ed actual play podcasts on rpgmp3.com, where splugg joins the team and gets a hilarous starring role. He's still there up to the end of Thunderspire Labyrinth!
That's hysterical. In our game, we kept Splugg around as well. He travelled with the PC's to Thunderspire, and when we added a new player that wanted to play a rogue, Splugg got an upgrade from NPC to PC.
That's hysterical. In our game, we kept Splugg around as well. He travelled with the PC's to Thunderspire, and when we added a new player that wanted to play a rogue, Splugg got an upgrade from NPC to PC.
Funny you mention that... I sort of do daydream storytelling when I'm doing something monotomous. One that seems reoccuring (especially since I'm listening to the podcast over and over again for giggles) is of the game Penny Arcade, PVP, and Wil play but I'm sort of imagining it from a novel written form. I felt they really needed a rogue character because, let's face it, sublety is not thier strong point. Then I went "Wait, what happened to Splug?" So I pictured that Splug sort of got left by Acquisitions Inc to do his own thing, but he missed them. He found out they got to Fallcrest, but couldn't really get in due to his goblin-status. I kinda picture him sneaking into their makeshift headquaters, popping into view and crying out "Masters! I am so glad I found you!!" Hijinks ensue.
Also, new podcast up. Sadly a bit short, but I'm thinking alot happens in the next one. I think the metal jaws they talk about are the Scythejaw from the Demonweb set.
"Gnom gnom gnom gnom. Gnap! Gnap gnap!!"
I think the metal jaws they talk about are the Scythejaw from the Demonweb set. "Gnom gnom gnom gnom. Gnap! Gnap gnap!!"
The scythejaw was definitely the inspiration. I tweaked its stats a bit. You'll see the tweaked version in the published adventure, which comes out in Dungeon magazine this month.
Chris
Seriously. Scott Kurtz is like the worst 4e fighter ever. I don't know that we've ever heard him mark an enemy.
I make it my policy never to tell players how to play their characters — unless they're clearly not having a good time. :embarrass
Binwin Bronzebottom moves to the beat of his own drum. It's a very special drum.
Chris
I make it my policy never to tell players how to play their characters — unless they're clearly not having a good time. :embarrass
Binwin Bronzebottom moves to the beat of his own drum. It's a very special drum.
Chris
Yeah... a mended one possibly... like in Discworld. Wait, crossing fandoms. And I think Scott got a little absorbed in drawing sometimes... I know what that's like. It's like dealing with a junkie. "No dude, really! I'm good to go!! I can handle it!"
Plus, you have the most wonderful theatrical voice. Seriously, start thinking about doing audio on the side. But you're probably busy... well, extra money now at days is always nice.
Out of curiosity, how did you make the pit they went into? I can picture it rather well and how you encorporated the elevation impresses me... but how did you manage the scaffolding?
Ugh... getting horrible grade school flash backs to making various homemade 3D projects. Using a pinata and Legos for the siege of Troy. Arrrghhh...
Out of curiosity, how did you make the pit they went into? I can picture it rather well and how you encorporated the elevation impresses me... but how did you manage the scaffolding?
I used dungeon tiles that look like wooden boards to represent the top level of the scaffolding, and then stacked other dungeon tiles underneath them to give them the sense of elevation. Everything was held in place with small rolls of tape between the tiles. Basically, I added a sense of height to certain tiles by elevating them.
Chris
The scythejaw was definitely the inspiration. I tweaked its stats a bit. You'll see the tweaked version in the published adventure, which comes out in Dungeon magazine this month.
Chris
I can't wait to see this adventure. Great work Chris
By the way: I feel bad for poor Wil. He realized after the fact that he had forgotten to add his weapon proficiency bonus to his attacks. Ah well, they all sound like their having a blast.
The first round of PA/PVP podcasts really were a nice reminder of good times with DnD, and were really the "last straw" to get me into 4th, and back into DnD (from Saga, and a general "DnD Burn-Out").
Anywho: Rock On.
--- Greatfrito
Addendum: Y'know, I'd love to see the PA/PVP minis pack. I'd also love to see a Splug mini, as done by the guys.
Moar: Going back through the images, I really think WotC should bribe the PA/PVP guys into fully illustrating their adventures.
I used dungeon tiles that look like wooden boards to represent the top level of the scaffolding, and then stacked other dungeon tiles underneath them to give them the sense of elevation. Everything was held in place with small rolls of tape between the tiles. Basically, I added a sense of height to certain tiles by elevating them.
Chris
I saw some of the Dwarven Forge sets that Penny Arcade referred to. Really amazing looking but so far from my price range. Your idea was utterly brilliant. I think adding a actual physical representation of elevation can keep things nicely in perspective. Your little minis are 3D, so a 30 foot drop should look more intimidating than just a bold line.
I have to confess, the material coating the new tiles is nice. I'm really too scared to use tape on it... but it feels like tape would peel off nicely. If not, there's always Goo Gone. I'm not sure how well with it would work with the previous ones since it looks like a different coating.
I was really sceptical about purchasing them, but since I sometimes have a hard time starting an area's design it works well for me. Feels sorta like pipeline. "Gee... put this here and this fits... put a bend here..." Sometimes a blank page leaves TOO many options.
Still tempted to save up for a wet-dry mat. I think there's a good compromize between somewhere between the two.
I have to confess, the material coating the new tiles is nice. I'm really too scared to use tape on it... but it feels like tape would peel off nicely.
Try the "poster tack" stuff, if you're concerned. I've tried it out, extensively, and (thus far) I've had no problem on either old or new tiles. Plus: Reusable.
That should get you all of them so far.
I saw some of the Dwarven Forge sets that Penny Arcade referred to. Really amazing looking but so far from my price range.
Yes, I had a look at Dwarven Forge too. Very nice indeed, but I just can't justify the cost, I'm afraid. I'm working on my own set of "dungeon tiles" at the moment, a basic dungeon set with 3D walls and doors. Card stock is cheaper than polystone.
@Chris Perkins, nice to see you here, Chris.
Plus, you have the most wonderful theatrical voice. Seriously, start thinking about doing audio on the side. But you're probably busy... well, extra money now at days is always nice.
Yes pls! Chris Perkins, get yourself an agent and tell them to talk to Audible and see if they can do a book with your voice. YAY!
For some reason, it won't show on the main page, so I just tried putting in the appropriate date. It worked. Joy!
This new one is over and HOUR long, and has the best ending lines so far. I fall over laughing each time. Massive laughing from the new episode. They really get into this game, and it just makes me want to play so much.
For those of you, like myself, who don't subscribe to the podcast and gets it via the Wizards webpage to see the related artwork, here's the link for episode 5: Penny Arcade/PvP Episode 5 Series 2
For some reason, it won't show on the main page, so I just tried putting in the appropriate date. It worked. Joy!
This new one is over and HOUR long, and has the best ending lines so far. I fall over laughing each time. Massive laughing from the new episode. They really get into this game, and it just makes me want to play so much.
I agree about the ending. I laughed for a good minute when I first heard it... And then I replayed it several more times. It was hilarious.
I agree about the ending. I laughed for a good minute when I first heard it.
Oh yes, so very great.
Keep forcing the guys to do this stuff at least once every 6 months or so - they're just so great.
Okay Aeofel, put the sword away now. He's dead. Stabbing him over and over won't change anything. It might make you feel better, but it's not going make him any more dead.
Plus... each time I hear Wil say "overwhelming" he really pronounces the H. My god that man can enunciate!
Oh yes, so very great.
Keep forcing the guys to do this stuff at least once every 6 months or so - they're just so great.
Man, they should have a contest or auction off an opening for someone to play D&D with them the next time. It could go towards Child's Play or something. I would love, love, LOVE to play with them. However, it does lead to the possibility that the person who wins is a big jerk.
That's the thing about D&D groups... sometimes one person can really make the experience go from total fun to a grating annoyance. Makes my respect for DMs soar to new heights.
Man, they should have a contest or auction off an opening for someone to play D&D with them the next time. It could go towards Child's Play or something. I would love, love, LOVE to play with them. However, it does lead to the possibility that the person who wins is a big jerk.
That's the thing about D&D groups... sometimes one person can really make the experience go from total fun to a grating annoyance. Makes my respect for DMs soar to new heights.
If they got Colbert to do it, all would be complete.
Plus... each time I hear Wil say "overwhelming" he really pronounces the H. My god that man can enunciate!
I keep thinking that maybe he's over pronouncing the H on purpose, hoping someone will recognize it as a Family Guy reference: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lich59xsjik
Anyway, Lahara, awww I'm sure you're doodles are cute. I ended up putting my own "Jim Darkmagic" fanart up on my Deviant Art account.
http://anarsilan.deviantart.com/art/He-wields-the-power-of-Arcane-115989373
----
I listened to Episode 5 last night after I got in from work (3am) and man, I couldn't get to sleep it was so funny. The bit with Binwin and the flamejets had me in hysterics!
Binwin is fast becoming as cool as Jim!
I have to say Chris, I am so inspired by your DMing skills. I've really picked up a thing or two listening to the podcasts and I can't wait to run my next session.
Please say you'll pass on the idea of Acquisitions Incorporated minis. ;)
Gah! I hate waiting for the next one though! I hope it's another long one!
~M
Binwin is fast becoming as cool as Jim!
He is, but for very different reasons (to me, at least). The absolute ease with which Jim does everything (how many crits?) contrasts so very well with Binwin's continual bad-luck (though it seems fairly par-for-course for a defender). They make a great team. Hell, they all do.
Please say you'll pass on the idea of Acquisitions Incorporated minis. ;)
Man, I want those so very much. Heck, the problem at this point is that I'd want a whole set (of 3 or 4) for each character (well, Will's character has yet to grow on me quite enough, but he's getting there).
I mean, for Jim, we need: "Magic Missile Firing Jim" (action pose, with wand), "Flying Dove Jim" (with a white dove flying into the air above him from his outstretched hand), and "Fan-Club Jim" (signing a photo of himself).
Binwin we need: "Binwin Kicking Ass" (action pose, knocking something silly), "Binwin on Fire" (dwarf, on fire. 'nuff said), and "Very Badly Beaten Binwin" (with cuts, bruises, and general injuries).
For Omin, we could have: "Aggressive Omin" (action pose, firing his lance of faith or sacred flame), "Commanding Omin" (maybe another action pose, obviously directing the others around), and "Omin at Work" (with spectacles on, and a book, doing the book-keeping for Aquisitions Incorporated).
And of course, I'd love to see a "Splug" mini, done based on the artwork from the first series.
So much... potential... hurting... brain.
(rhetorically) "Have you ever been in the head of a steel snapping-jaw machine?"
"Yes, just recently"
"Good point. I withdraw the question."
For the context, you'll have to listen to the podcast.
He is, but for very different reasons (to me, at least). The absolute ease with which Jim does everything (how many crits?) contrasts so very well with Binwin's continual bad-luck (though it seems fairly par-for-course for a defender). They make a great team. Hell, they all do.
Absolutely. Binwin reminds me of all the character's I've played that would try so hard and just have the *worst* luck of all.
I do feel bad though, he wouldn't have gone down in fight against the Scythejaw if Wil had remembered he had Jerry's Righteous Brand bonus! He forgot to add the extra +4, which would have hit and allowed him to pull it off.
I always end up yelling out when they forget some math somewhere. Like Omin hasn't been adding his healers lore either! D:
Man, I want those so very much. Heck, the problem at this point is that I'd want a whole set (of 3 or 4) for each character (well, Will's character has yet to grow on me quite enough, but he's getting there).
I mean, for Jim, we need: "Magic Missile Firing Jim" (action pose, with wand), "Flying Dove Jim" (with a white dove flying into the air above him from his outstretched hand), and "Fan-Club Jim" (signing a photo of himself).
Binwin we need: "Binwin Kicking Ass" (action pose, knocking something silly), "Binwin on Fire" (dwarf, on fire. 'nuff said), and "Very Badly Beaten Binwin" (with cuts, bruises, and general injuries).
For Omin, we could have: "Aggressive Omin" (action pose, firing his lance of faith or sacred flame), "Commanding Omin" (maybe another action pose, obviously directing the others around), and "Omin at Work" (with spectacles on, and a book, doing the book-keeping for Aquisitions Incorporated).
And of course, I'd love to see a "Splug" mini, done based on the artwork from the first series.
So much... potential... hurting... brain.
Or even better, a dove flying off but Jim trying to catch it again. He's only got one of those you know. ;)
--------
See the thing is, these podcasts (for me anyway) really show what D&D is about. It's not the smelly, basement game of wearing wizard hats media makes it out to be, it's a bunch of friends having a damn good laugh whilst rolling dice and letting go for a few hours.
The podcasts helped convince my girlfriend to give D&D a go as it totally wasn't what she was expecting. She used to think it was all serious business until she listened to Jim's antics. XD
Favourite quotes include "You don't know how many times I've seen those doves" and "I think I sprained my uvula", as well as them calling Wil's character Alf. Brilliant stuff.
Oh man. I can finally get back on to the Forums! For some reason I just couldn't get on them for ages.
Anyway, Lahara, awww I'm sure you're doodles are cute. I ended up putting my own "Jim Darkmagic" fanart up on my Deviant Art account.
I couldn't get on either. Anyway, yeah, your art is awesome. I don't know how to color using photoshop and such... I think I sort of learned how to but it takes so much time... I'd rather just doodle with my pencil. (And buying an electronic art pad for hundreds of dollars? Not in my budget.) There's a few other Jim Darkmagic art on Deviant Art. My favorite is one of a dire owl carrying off Jim's grandmother.
Turns out I do have a Deviant Art account, but I think the scanner isn't hooked up. It's a pain. I'll see what I can do. Been doodling like mad. My favorite recent one was during Chemistry lab waiting for 20 minutes for a substance to be heated. It's of Binwin just missing getting snapped at by the thresher maw, (sythejaw, whatever...) it leaping in the air and snaping at him with bloody metal teeth.
As for Aeofel's minis? Hmm... I'll go with: "Oath Swearing Aeofel" (extending his hand at his hated foe and muttering a long curse in gutteral Eladric), "Taste My Justice Aeofel" (swinging his blade theatrically, and let's say he hit because he added the right bonuses...), and "Other Eladrin Aeofel" (Aeofel repeatedly stabbing and mocking with a high voice a fallen foe)
I think the "Beaten Binwin" should be "Brazen Binwin" when he viciously charges into a room of foes (ala Leroy Jenkins) and usually stirs up a great deal of trouble. "Commanding Omin" should be called "Omin Dran, CEO", and the "Aggressive Omin" should encorporate his divine symbol. You have Jim dead on.
As for Aeofel's minis? Hmm... I'll go with: "Oath Swearing Aeofel" (extending his hand at his hated foe and muttering a long curse in gutteral Eladric), "Taste My Justice Aeofel" (swinging his blade theatrically, and let's say he hit because he added the right bonuses...), and "Other Eladrin Aeofel" (Aeofel repeatedly stabbing and mocking with a high voice a fallen foe)
I think the "Beaten Binwin" should be "Brazen Binwin" when he viciously charges into a room of foes (ala Leroy Jenkins) and usually stirs up a great deal of trouble. "Commanding Omin" should be called "Omin Dran, CEO", and the "Aggressive Omin" should encorporate his divine symbol. You have Jim dead on.
I love 'em! Let's get these made!
Binwin, on the other side of the flame-spewing traps yelling at Jim with hands cupped around mouth. "Use your f***ing magic!!"
Jim, still trying to beat out the flames on his cloak from the last attempt to disarm the trap cups his ear towards Binwin "What's that? OH! Yeah!!" Next to him stands Omin, covering his face and slightly ashamed the dwarf FIGHTER was the one to think of that.
By the way... doesn't there seem to be a time gap between Episode 4 and 5? The ninja and one of the crossbow guys are gone and Binwin gets gnawed on by the scythejaw (which missed him at the end of episode 4). I think something like this happened with the last series between two of the episodes... not the jump between changing DMs... you only really notice it if you play the podcasts one after the other. The oddest thing is I have the podcasts as MP3s and right after it is a bit of Beethoven's 9th that came with my iTunes which I didn't have the heart to delete. It's odd hearing the violens give a tense few notes, then the drums pound after some of the last lines: "At this point, we can all roll..." "Let's unroll the rope ladder and descend..." "That's as bad as it could possibly be..." "What's that? Oh! Yeah!!"
And I'm seriously curious if ANY of the guys (other than Chris) read these posts. I'm a bit doubtful... yet hopeful...
Question: are there any more podcasts like this? I've listened to both series of the PA/PVP podcasts over and over and I daren't not listen to them again any time soon. I've tried listening to the rpgmp3.com podcasts (as linked to earlier in the thread), but they're not nearly as funny or compelling.
I've gotta scratch this itch.
Question: are there any more podcasts like this? I've listened to both series of the PA/PVP podcasts over and over and I daren't not listen to them again any time soon. I've tried listening to the rpgmp3.com podcasts (as linked to earlier in the thread), but they're not nearly as funny or compelling.
I've gotta scratch this itch.
I agree. I was listening to the first 4E podcast of rpgmp3 and they just aren't nearly as funny. Of course, the PA/PVP ones are pandering to the audience a bit and their humor (and talent) is the source of their income. And it's a little weird that one of the guys on the rpgmp3 sounds like Bill Paxton.
In the end... it makes me want to find a bunch of people who are nice and funny and roleplay with them. I'm willing to bet WotC people read that and go "Yeah!! We did our job!!! Drinks all around!!" Probably the positive reaction from the first podcast spurred them to make the second. How long it takes for a third to roll around... well... hopefully not as long. I sort of doubt the PHB 3 is going to come out 8 months from now (roughly the same length of time between the release of 4E and PHB 2.) I'm still wondering where the monk and psionic classes are going to fit in...
Bah! I'm babbling. Basically I know the podcasts are great PR to advertise the cool D&D stuff... so what I'm trying to say is a bit before the next really exciting release comes out they might do another podcast. God... I know I'm just one of the tons of fans of Penny Arcade, Player vs Player, and Wil Wheaton, but I would adore to be able to play with them. They seem so nice and so funny. I'm sure my extensive catalog of Mel Brooks movie quotes would help.
Hopefully they'll realize the positive impact it's had in general terms on D&D and just keep producing it, whether or not they have anything to show off in the podcast.
The new content is more a tasty morsel they added, not a driving force for the podcast. I figure WotC realized they can also talk about the additional content they have to offer as well beyond just the core books. I'm sure they'll make another series of podcasts eventually, but I have the impression that a few more tasty delights might be tossed in. I have to confess they really trumped the last podcast by adding Wil Wheaton (who happens to be well aquainted as far as I can tell with Penny Arcade, and possibly PvP as well.) Nice move.
I think they do realize the potential because PA and PvP have a huge fan base, and not everyone in that fan base roleplay. I hope that this sparks intrest for people to get into roleplaying, and not so much from a marketing stand point. People still look at me strangely when I mention that I'm into it, but it doesn't stop me from carrying around a new D&D book around campus and reading it before class starts. I'm just glad that no longer people don't immediatly assume it means I'm into some satanic cult or kinky bedroom activies.
It is worth noting that both Gabe from PA and Wil have started up their own D&D campaigns now. Gabe sometimes writes about it on the PA website and Wil writes quite extensively about it on his site. Wil has posted some cool photos too.
I have listened to some of the podcasts from RPGMP3 and while I applaud and appreciate the effort, it's not nearly as entertaining as "our guys", but they will do in a pinch. Also, I cant believe I'm writing this, but I wish RPGMP3 would do some heavy editing, because some of those podcasts go on for ages.
I will end this by repeating what I said in an earlier post, I really, really want to see a set of Aquisitions Inc minis, preferably a series.
If you're reading this, Chris, then please consider it. You know it makes sense. I would just like to ad my name to the list that says, please please please make this a regular outing. Listening to the adventures that these guys go one are really entertaining. I imagine any game of D&D to be entertaining but these Gabe, Tyco and Scott in particular have a banter that just works.
In an ideal world i would think that the characters of Jim, Binwin and Omen (possibly Alf) would live on and there could but a 'guest' player each time. That would give WotC to demonstrate new player content, but keep the characters that have already cemented themselves into the podcasts.
Plus they helped me figure out game mechanics while I was waiting for my PHB.
I will agree with that statement. Things i am now reading in the PHB are a lot easier to understand because i have already heard them on the Podcast in action. It was great as begginner, especially with Gabe being a begginner to start with in the first series.
I will agree with that statement. Things i am now reading in the PHB are a lot easier to understand because i have already heard them on the Podcast in action. It was great as begginner, especially with Gabe being a begginner to start with in the first series.
If you think the 4e PHB is hard to read... try reading 3e or 3.5e combat rules some time. It was painful.
And yeah... I think the fact that in the first series Mike ("Gabe") had never done this before is a great aid to the audience. I think a few of the basic never-before-rpger questions were asked. "Do we have to speak in accents?" "Can I roll to kill Irontooth?" Stuff like that.
Of course, I would encourage someone to come up with a better name than Jim. Maybe Jhim. And probably explain that there is no New Hampshire (or probably Hampshire for that matter... where the heck is Hampshire anyway???) Mike seemed happy with his name, however, so I probably wouldn't push it too much. Heh. Chet Awesomelaser.
Of course, I would encourage someone to come up with a better name than Jim. Maybe Jhim. And probably explain that there is no New Hampshire (or probably Hampshire for that matter... where the heck is Hampshire anyway???) Mike seemed happy with his name, however, so I probably wouldn't push it too much. Heh. Chet Awesomelaser.
What? SHH! Do you want to get Darkmagic magicked or something?!
Next up I want to doodle:
Binwin, on the other side of the flame-spewing traps yelling at Jim with hands cupped around mouth. "Use your f***ing magic!!"
Jim, still trying to beat out the flames on his cloak from the last attempt to disarm the trap cups his ear towards Binwin "What's that? OH! Yeah!!" Next to him stands Omin, covering his face and slightly ashamed the dwarf FIGHTER was the one to think of that.
Yeah, that's a pretty hilarious scene.
By the way... doesn't there seem to be a time gap between Episode 4 and 5? The ninja and one of the crossbow guys are gone and Binwin gets gnawed on by the scythejaw (which missed him at the end of episode 4).
I already wondered if noone else noticed. I always listen to the end of the last episode to remind myself of the current situation before starting the new one, so it was immediately obvious to me.
Maybe something is wrong with the fourth part, it was exceptionally short. At first I thought that maybe Wizards had decided to make the series longer by shortening the episodes, but clearly that isn't the case.
If there were fifteen to twenty minutes missing from that episode, that'd explain the gap very well. WHAT'S UP, WIZARDS? WhY ARE WE BEING DENIED OUR FREE ENTERTAINMENT? THIS IS A DISGRACE. I'D DEMAND MY MONEY BACK IF I HAD PAID ANY.
I think something like this happened with the last series between two of the episodes... not the jump between changing DMs... you only really notice it if you play the podcasts one after the other.
Really, where? The cuts in the last series are so clean that when I listened to them on my mp3-player, I didn't even notice when one episode ended and the next started. Until they added the disclaimer, anyway.
Of course, I would encourage someone to come up with a better name than Jim. Maybe Jhim. And probably explain that there is no New Hampshire (or probably Hampshire for that matter... where the heck is Hampshire anyway???)
Jhim is better than Jim?
I applaud your open-mindedness, however. Some people might take issue with Darkmagic as a name. ;)
Hampshire is a county in England. Go figure.
I already wondered if noone else noticed. I always listen to the end of the last episode to remind myself of the current situation before starting the new one, so it was immediately obvious to me.
Maybe something is wrong with the fourth part, it was exceptionally short. At first I thought that maybe Wizards had decided to make the series longer by shortening the episodes, but clearly that isn't the case.
Maybe Kiko (I think he's the guy doing the recording) had to stop recording to cut down file size, and had a little trouble restarting the recording? I don't know... I don't know how it all works...
Really, where? The cuts in the last series are so clean that when I listened to them on my mp3-player, I didn't even notice when one episode ended and the next started. Until they added the disclaimer, anyway.
Let me see... *opens iTunes and pokes around* Okay... in the original series between episode 2 and 3. It's hard to notice but the whole entering the room thing kinda vanished. I'm not sure why they switched DMs either...
Jhim is better than Jim?
Have you seen the human names in PHB? THAT'S worth
ing over.I applaud your open-mindedness, however. Some people might take issue with Darkmagic as a name. ;)
Why thank you.
Honestly, I've heard worse. Some people are a bit lacking in the imagination department and when you're starting out roleplaying for the first time... what's the first thing you do? Make a character. You haven't had time to get your imagination flowing just yet so the water's a bit stagnant. See how Mike develops his character more and more between series 1 & 2? Being creative already he has an advantage so things flow quickly.Hampshire is a county in England. Go figure.
I forgot that. Hmm. I still don't get why it's pronounced sheer and not shy-er (as in, Shire where the Hobbits lived. Yes. I am a nerd. Live with it. Love it.)
OH! New podcast up! Awesome artwork! Listening now...
Let me see... *opens iTunes and pokes around* Okay... in the original series between episode 2 and 3. It's hard to notice but the whole entering the room thing kinda vanished. I'm not sure why they switched DMs either...
Hmm, maaybe you're right. I interpreted that as Jerry spotting the beds on the game board. They hadn't entered the room proper yet, as the DM gives them the room description later, after pointing out the loot from the previous encounter, which they had just wrapped up at the end of the second episode.
So in any case nothing much happened inbetween.
Have you seen the human names in PHB? THAT'S worth
Nah, don't recall any specific names. But then the DM suggested that "Binwin Bronzebottom" had the quality for an official product. Well, in that case James Darkmagic III of the New Hampshire Darkmagics is pure gold.
Some people are a bit lacking in the imagination department and when you're starting out roleplaying for the first time... what's the first thing you do?
Read the rules; and I don't mean just the Player's Handbook. By the way I don't recall, do they still give naming advice?
Anyway, lacking imagination is one thing. Daft names another. Darkmagic is silly, which works if you want to play that way, and these guys clearly want to play that way.
I forgot that. Hmm. I still don't get why it's pronounced sheer and not shy-er (as in, Shire where the Hobbits lived. Yes. I am a nerd. Live with it. Love it.)
I don't think it's pronounced sheer either. More "shir" like in shirt. My explanation for that is that it's simply sloppy articulation handed down over generations.
Hmm, maaybe you're right.
You'll find I'm right 95% of the time. I like to leave a little breathing room for mistakes. *teasing*
Read the rules; and I don't mean just the Player's Handbook.
Well obviously. I meant after all that, the first real ACTION they take.
By the way I don't recall, do they still give naming advice?
*whips out her PHB and flips to p.47, then clears her throat dramatically* Human Male Names: Alain, Alek, Benn, Donn, Drew, Erik, Jonn, Kris, Marc, Mikal, Pieter, Quinn, Samm, Thom, Wil
*closes the book* If you think Jhim is worse than Jim... well, there's your argument right above. See the trend in the names?
Anyway, lacking imagination is one thing. Daft names another. Darkmagic is silly, which works if you want to play that way, and these guys clearly want to play that way.
Of course! These guys are nuts and we love it. Then again... I did love their reaction to Mike's choice in name. Hehehe.
I don't think it's pronounced sheer either. More "shir" like in shirt. My explanation for that is that it's simply sloppy articulation handed down over generations.
I meant sheer like "a sheer cliff", "sheer audacity"; also the same sound as "to shear a sheep". Anyway, with my above example of human names (which all are most likely pronounced the same as modern day versions,) we can see that language evolves over time, either through sound or spelling. Sometimes both. Leave it to humans to be thoroughly inconsistant.
Best parts:
The whole trap scene. ALL of it. It caused tears to well up in my eyes. Binwin and his trap-springing skill at its finest.
"Stop, drop and roll, Jim, roll."
The dark recipie of the evil culinary cauldron. *evil voice* "Reduce by 2/3 before cooking."
Manos, hand of fate! With Torgo!
Omin boldly walking to the skulls. Then Scott: "Awesome it's safe to-AAHHHH!!"
Dramatic opening of the giant double doors revealing Binwin in all his mightiness.
The whole failing to arise your skeleton part. "This never happens. Usually when I try to raise a skeleton..." "It happens to every necromancer atleast once in their life..."
How the hell could Chris hope to keep a straight face? I'd have to run to the bathroom every 20 minutes to make sure I wouldn't wet myself laughing.
Not that I... ever did that.
Ew.And the skull over-analyze was brilliant; reminded me a lot of my group. Clever solution as well.
The "you can double move" bit was pure evil genius. Poor Binwin. Although when you think about it, Chris did him a favor; this way, Binwin's next turn wouldn't be ended early by the trap.
True, but I think Chris' intention was merely to remind him that it was a possible course of action, and that anytime he doesn't do a standard action he could take another move action. Nothing's worse than "Oh yay, my turn!"
*STEP* "AUGGGHH!!" 
*SQUISH* 
I also wonder if something was edited out of the later podcasts. There never seems to be any introduction for "Carl." All of a suddden they are fighting this guy and calling him by name.
I also wonder if something was edited out of the later podcasts. There never seems to be any introduction for "Carl." All of a suddden they are fighting this guy and calling him by name.
"Carl" was their nick name for Kalarel, the final boss from the first series of podcasts.
I just wanted to add my praise for the podcasts... just finished listening to the new one for the second time. Bindwin's double move was fantastically evil, kudos to Mr. Perkins. The podcasts played a big part in getting me interested in playing 4th ed.
I noticed that Chris also stated that the adventure was in "this months issue of Dungeon magazine", would that be the March issue? I will admit that I subscribed to dnd Insider so I could down load that particular adventure. I guess Chris deserves congratulations, since the podcasts got me back into the game and his post got me to subscribe to the site. Well played, sir.
And, of course, the necromancer did say he posessed the Amulet of Kalarel, later.
Well obviously. I meant after all that, the first real ACTION they take.
My point is, shouldn't they be prepared? It's not like somebody jumps at them on the street and shouts "A name for a fantasy game! Now!"
Of course, when you see what the people who made this game came up with, having lots of time to think about it, maybe the problem runs deeper.
*whips out her PHB and flips to p.47, then clears her throat dramatically* Human Male Names: Alain, Alek, Benn, Donn, Drew, Erik, Jonn, Kris, Marc, Mikal, Pieter, Quinn, Samm, Thom, Wil
*closes the book* If you think Jhim is worse than Jim... well, there's your argument right above. See the trend in the names?
Yeah, I do. Your suggestion fits right in. :P
Many of those names aren't so bad, really. I'm sure Alain is perfectly fine.. if you're French. And what's wrong with Marc, anyway? I'm sure Kris Straub and Wil Wheaton don't see a problem with their names, either.
According to the Penny Arcade website, they did have to edit something out of the one of the first series of podcasts because it was considered inappropriate.
Really? The only part where I noticed a "jump" was when they changed DMs, and from their comments I got the impression they skipped part of the adventure.
Could it have been worse than "This c*bleep*t is getting a Crushing Blow" - "I think that technically that would be a called shot"?
In another part Scott says "I'm gonna f***ing reaping strike this guy's ball- sack. nuts. tes****es."
This reminds me, there is a point in one of the podcasts where Kiko apparently comments on the excessive swearing, prompting them to randomly spout swear words for a few seconds. Does anyone recall which episode that was?
I also wonder if something was edited out of the later podcasts. There never seems to be any introduction for "Carl." All of a suddden they are fighting this guy and calling him by name.
The DM simply started referring to the NPC by name in the middle of the fight and the players naturally made jokes about it.
And, of course, the necromancer did say he posessed the Amulet of Kalarel, later.
I think that was just the DM humouring the players.
... their answer was "Wil Wheaton chose to use a weapon that he was not proficient with, therefore he did not receive a proficiency bonus when attacking."
I'm like "What are you talking about??? He's an Avenger AND an Eladrin. Proficiency would be the last thing he'd be worried about."
Yeah, well just wanted to say I really enjoy these podcasts. Hilarious. It seems like there are "errors" in each episode regarding the rules, I thought they were doing it on purpose for some kind of contest later, like "can you spot the mistakes?"
I've noticed these as well:
1.) Shouldn't Binwin the DWARF have been able to resist being pushed next to the chompers with his Dwarven Stability thing?
2.) Jim Darkmagic's Force Orb did 2d8 on the secondary attack instead of 1d10. (Please don't Darkmagick me...)
1.) Shouldn't Binwin the DWARF have been able to resist being pushed next to the chompers with his Dwarven Stability thing?
I noticed this too. Probably an oversight. Or, the dwarf feature only reduces a forced move by 1, and maybe the push effect had enough squares to put him in the jaws either way.
According to the Penny Arcade website, they did have to edit something out of the one of the first series of podcasts because it was considered inappropriate.
I also wonder if something was edited out of the later podcasts. There never seems to be any introduction for "Carl." All of a sudden they are fighting this guy and calling him by name.
The podcasts are definitely edited for content. Some naughty stuff gets cut, as well as the occasional boring bit. (I could be wrong, but I doubt the masses are interested in listening to four guys eating pizza for 10 minutes.)
We have no way to know for sure, but I took it that they said "It's Carl!" when Chris was setting out the minis in the room... and took it that Chris is using the same mini for this BBEG as he used for Kalarel.
And, of course, the necromancer did say he posessed the Amulet of Kalarel, later.
Mike and Jerry refer to Kalarel as "Carl."
Humor is a strange and wondrous thing.
And I'd totally call him Carl too. Great job DMing Chris; keep it up!
My point is, shouldn't they be prepared? It's not like somebody jumps at them on the street and shouts "A name for a fantasy game! Now!"
They don't? Well why not?!
Yeah, I do. Your suggestion fits right in. :P
Many of those names aren't so bad, really. I'm sure Alain is perfectly fine.. if you're French. And what's wrong with Marc, anyway? I'm sure Kris Straub and Wil Wheaton don't see a problem with their names, either.
I don't think that's Wil's first name by birth... he goes by it... I don't know it must be an actor thing. Like Sean Bean, his first name by birth is Shaun.
This reminds me, there is a point in one of the podcasts where Kiko apparently comments on the excessive swearing, prompting them to randomly spout swear words for a few seconds. Does anyone recall which episode that was?
Series 2, Episode 3. Starts about 28:55 and explains it all... How can you forget the tuna?? Oh man. I couldn't breathe for a few minutes I was laughing so hard.
I think that was just the DM humouring the players.
Well, let's ask the source. Chris?
The podcasts are definitely edited for content. Some naughty stuff gets cut, as well as the occasional boring bit. (I could be wrong, but I doubt the masses are interested in listening to four guys eating pizza for 10 minutes.)
Good point. Although, if it was as funny as when they started eating the cookies... heh. Mmm. As for pizza, living near NYC makes me have pretty high standards for pizza. Everywhere else... it's always just not quite right.
Humor is a strange and wondrous thing.
So very true. I still say most people who make the world worse just don't laugh enough or have a good sense of humor. I know when I feel sick, I pop in some Mel Brooks, Monty Python, or MST3K and feel better very quickly.
"I am the lemon zester of distruction."
I feel kinda sorry for Wil's character, Al the Eladrin Avenger. There was some build up for this character, ie Wil will be playing a class from the soon to be released PHB2, etc, but so far I'm not seeing (or hearing) a whole lot of avenging going on... :D
I'm sure that was made worse by him declaring an Oath of Enmity on a guy, only to have him run away.
By the way, did anyone else love the "I love the smell of powdered bones in the morning. Smells like Jim Darkmagic."
I rolled only a partial success on my Paraphrasing.
They don't? Well why not?!
There have been complaints.
I don't think that's Wil's first name by birth... he goes by it... I don't know it must be an actor thing. Like Sean Bean, his first name by birth is Shaun.
You're right, his real name is Richard. Or William. Which makes Wil his chosen name. Maybe you want to send him an email, tell him what you think of his choice.
Maybe you could suggest he change his name to Whil.
Series 2, Episode 3. Starts about 28:55 and explains it all... How can you forget the tuna?? Oh man. I couldn't breathe for a few minutes I was laughing so hard.
Oh yeah, thanks. "Please cut that part out. Please cut that part out." :D
And of course he didn't.
And the forums appear to have gone all... green and stuff today or maybe it's just because I haven't had my tea yet.
The big missing part in the first podcast happens when they find the armor with a riddle... I guess it got edited out not to spoil the answer to the riddle?
The big missing part in the first podcast happens when they find the armor with a riddle... I guess it got edited out not to spoil the answer to the riddle?
Actually, I believe that is when they switched DMs. The old DM had built up this huge thing about the riddle, and I think he had made it up, because the new DM was kinda "Um, riddle? What?" (paraphrased).
And Kreydon got Wil's name correct. I believe it is Richard William Wheaton III.
edit: After Binwin's bad saves, I want to give Scott a d20 with all sides 1-10 replaced with 11-20.
edit2: OMG, witchalock preview!
edit3: *spoiler* I know at one point the PA guys posted a scan of Jim's character sheet...with negative hit points...
I forgot that. Hmm. I still don't get why it's pronounced sheer and not shy-er (as in, Shire where the Hobbits lived. Yes. I am a nerd. Live with it. Love it.)
Well, Sheriffs aren't called "shire reeves" any more -- probably the same phonic Grimm's Law-type stuff going on.
I'm sure that was made worse by him declaring an Oath of Enmity on a guy, only to have him run away.
Even worse, now that I've seen the PHB2, is knowing that not only was Wil cheating himself out of half his bonuses, he should have been rolling twice to hit all of his Oath-targets! Maybe he wasn't the only one adjacent to them, or something, but he should have been chopping bad guys like cordwood with that Oath, poor guy.
I wince every time he rolls the die knowing he is sooo under-utilizing a fun class. Still it adds to the fun of the Podcast I think.
The podcasts are definitely edited for content. Some naughty stuff gets cut, as well as the occasional boring bit. (I could be wrong, but I doubt the masses are interested in listening to four guys eating pizza for 10 minutes.)
Maybe that's where the guys learned what Kalarel's name was:
Mike: (chewing) So who is this guy we'll be fighting once we finish our pizza.
Chris: He's the boss of this adventure. A necromancer named Kalarel.
Mike: Ooooh, I'm going to call him Carl!
Back a couple years ago (like 6) when Final Fantasy 11 (the MMO) came out they did a comic. I forget if it was the first ever MMO Gabe played, but the joke was that Tycho named his character something like "Byzantar" while Gabe's guy was "Jim". The punchline was something like "This is just great; now I get to be known as 'that guy that hangs out with Jim'" echoing the frustration more "dedicated" roleplayers in MMO feel when they see "non-fantasy names". For a long time PA reader like myself it was a lite chuckle to see that Gabe's naming scheme ("Lacking sufficient y's for a pseudo-celtic-fantasy name') have not changed.
You are not Jim Darkmagic! Jim Darkmagic is SEVEN FEET TALL!
Best.Line.Yet.
I love how you just roll with the guys Chris and let them have their little jokes!
I was in Mike's uStream last night and I got to ask him if Jim really dies in this podcasts... He said;
Well that's a good question... Does Jim die? You'll have to wait and see. Of course, you need to ask... Can Jim die? Is there only one Jim Darkmagic?
I freaking love these guys.
:evillaugh
I can't wait for Wednesday. Can. Not. WAIT.
*explodes from glee*
It's the Dread Pirate Jim Darkmagic! I hope the next one is Andre the Giant!
Yeah, poor Wil.
I wince every time he rolls the die knowing he is sooo under-utilizing a fun class. Still it adds to the fun of the Podcast I think.
I just noticed today... Wil has a holy symbol that gives him a bonus... and he's not adding that to his implement power rolls... which is most of his powers. Sooo... for a while no +1 for his level, no +1 for implement, no proficency bonus on his sword for anything using his weapon, and if he has a magic sword no bonus from that. I'm sort of doubting the last one... but that's alot of bonuses to miss out on.
I'm not going to sit here and say Wil is stupid, because we've already established that's not the case. But I do feel badly for him because poor Aeofel is just not showing the original 3 what he can offer to Aquisitions Inc. As he put it succinctly, "the intern is just a little nervous.
Also, I appologize for any typos, but I burned my favorite hand in chem lab. Ouch.
Chris Perkins said in this thread that he doesn't like to tell players that they are playing "wrong." I think that's just a natural passive-aggressive defence DMs evolve to make their hordes of monsters live longer. Oh yes, DMs; I'm on to your plan!
Well... I'm not sure of that myself. I know Chris said as much... but I think we could all agree that Wil would of enjoyed a few more extra bonuses (bonui? :thinks
on his rolls.Wil, if you read this, I hope you gave Aeofel the Leather Armor proficency feat! I think the Avengers need leather armor. Besides... elves (and eladrin) look hot in leather. Not just female elves/eladrin!!
Ughhhh!!! One more dayyyy!!!
#8 is up, and it looks like the last one.
Oh well, at least we know Wil's got some useful/deadly/imposing encounter powers of his own.
And I can't stop laughing. I'm fairly certain the entire terminal is avoiding me, security debating over whether or not to detain me, and that a sky marshal is fingering his holstered weapon.
Yet this does not deter me. I laugh until tears well up in my eyes. Well done Mike Krahulik, Jerry Holkins, Scott Kurtz, Wil Wheaton, and Chris Perkins. I hope you continue to bring further joy to our nerdy hearts.
I go now to my flight, iPod in hand, with many more moments of sudden, inappropriate laughter to follow. My fellow soldiers, I salute you.
btw, does anyone else think it's hilarious that the "You SUCK!" chants come AFTER the dice get rolled?
Bah.
God I love these Podcasts... So much fun. They fill my dreary, empty days with D&D and pure joy. I just hope next time Binwin actually stays on his feet!
Chris Perkins said in this thread that he doesn't like to tell players that they are playing "wrong." I think that's just a natural passive-aggressive defence DMs evolve to make their hordes of monsters live longer. Oh yes, DMs; I'm on to your plan!
LOL, actually I go over my players' sheets for errors, and most of the ones I've found are where they're cheating themselves. I always tell them.
On topic though, this whole podcast event has been brilliant. In the moment, you never really think about what it would be like to play D&D with an audience, but it's definitely an experience to get to be the innocent bystander (or should I say, the voyeur?) at a game like this.
Please please please please, do more of these, they're great!
Please please please please, do more of these, they're great!
They HAVE to do more, otherwise...well I don't know, but it will be bad.
They HAVE to do more, otherwise...well I don't know, but it will be bad.
Amen!
No way, I'm going to have to actually study or work on writting my research papers during my down time!!!!!
I doubt this is the end of D&D podcast being Wizards is too smart to let a good thing go. They'll giving it time and analyze all the problems with it and put out at least 2 more editions (J/K love U guys).
I'm so on board for the mini's...but $30 is my spending limit.
What they should do now, beside another podcast, is develop a TV series with these guys sitting around playing with cuts to some of their artwork. I would drop an entire semester midway to watch that.
...I wept with hysterical laughter. Serious tears down my face and uncontrollable shoulder shakes.:D I got some serious funny looks.
Omin Dran's two 1's and the guys' reaction were just hilarious, and so so so true!
I have been playing D&D since 1981 and have always DM'd. Last year one of my player's decided to run a session with the rest of the group as a favour to me. I created a 3.5E swordsage - to show the others what 4E might feel like. Well they did a good job of finally welcoming me as a player, building up my first ever attack with one of the more spectacular swordsage powers as I laid into a dire rat. And I rolled a 1! and then another 1, and then five rolls on the trot below 10. I was very nearly rat chow and they had to come and save me. I thought they were going to wet themselves they were laughing so hard. Jerry - I've been there mate, I've been there.
Jerry - I've been there mate, I've been there.
Haven't we all? I remember being at a place where an archer needed a natural 20 just to hit me, and (by 3.5 standards) ended up with an auto-kill. Three 20's. Yeah, that normally would have been 8 damage on a level 10 barbarian...
For those of you worried about them not making any more, check out Chris' part of the Staff Blogs. He talks about the podcasts in a new post he has put up.
I couldn't *believe* what happened to Jerry. Especially after what Wil had said he would do after the first roll. XD
I've just put up a post in my blog about the podcasts and my thoughts on them, It still surprises how many people have showed an interest in playing D&D after listening to them.
Can't wait for more of their antics.
EDIT: Nvm, he mentioned it in his blog. Next month, apparently.
"Good King Jerry One's-a-lot, never rolls a twenty..."
Seriously. Scott Kurtz is like the worst 4e fighter ever. I don't know that we've ever heard him mark an enemy.
Hmm. Why would he have to say he marks an enemy? By my understanding, the mark just happens any time the fighter attacks an enemy. It seems the problem is on the DM. Maybe I am playing it wrong.
The Paladin declares a challenge and attacks thereby marking that target.
According to the Penny Arcade website, they did have to edit something out of the one of the first series of podcasts because it was considered inappropriate.
Hmmm....I am an old fart. What's worse than c**t (rhymes with Hunt)? That word only warranted a bleep. What could possibly have been worse and warranted deletion?
NVM, I can come up with some but I am sure examples would be banned.
The podcasts are definitely edited for content. Some naughty stuff gets cut, as well as the occasional boring bit. (I could be wrong, but I doubt the masses are interested in listening to four guys eating pizza for 10 minutes.)
Maybe you just don't know how boring some of our jobs are in rl. ;)
Man, can I play. It is getting harder to get someone to play DnD with. I almost went back to 1st/2nd Edition after a brief stint with 3rd/3.5. Freaking 4th edition rocks, IMO.
What could possibly have been worse and warranted deletion?
Well in ther first series, apparently they had to cut out a large chunk of the podcast because the boy were discussing whether or not sexually abusing a goblin would be a minor action.
I can see why that might be inappropriate to the podcast, as its not really filtered. Perhaps they might be able to release a 'directors cut' of the series?
Well in ther first series, apparently they had to cut out a large chunk of the podcast because the boy were discussing whether or not sexually abusing a goblin would be a minor action.
That must have been a hilarious conversation... I wouldn't mind hearing the uncut version of both podcasts now.. :D
no matter how long, I would listen to it all.
The adventure I wrote for Series 2 appears in the May issue of Dungeon magazine. Seriously. I'm not jerking y'all around this time. ;)
Chris
oh god a directors cut would be awesome!
no matter how long, I would listen to it all.
We have 10 glorious minutes of everyone eating pizza too close to the microphone.
I wouldn't call it quality entertainment . . . :embarrass
We have 10 glorious minutes of everyone eating pizza too close to the microphone.
I wouldn't call it quality entertainment . . . :embarrass
Says you...
We have 10 glorious minutes of everyone eating pizza too close to the microphone.
I wouldn't call it quality entertainment . . . :embarrass
Now that depends! I mean we are talking about Jerry, Mike, Scott, Wil and Chris here... I mean Chris most of all... I'm sure he malevolently devours his pizza one excruciating bite at a time, savoring each and every silent scream emanating from the slice's non-existent mouth, slowly gulping each chunk knowing full well the torture has only begun...
*And yes, I do know you are in fact the malicious torturer himself!
The DM leading Binwin into a trap (I snorted milk through my nose for that one)
The two 1's in the last episode, pure entertainment.
The only thing that would improve it would be some photo's of the battlemats just to save Wil from having to describe them to the listners.
Good stuff.
:D
Anyway, loved them so far. The whole "Punch him in the ____ hole" bit had me crying in laughter too. :D
Of course Jerry did once express a desire to groom her so he may have just been fantasizing.
On Penny Arcade's own podcast, they talked of having Vin Diesal. That'd also be cool.
What role should he (or anyone else that joins Aq Inc.) be?
Jim the controller bit done really well, so I think one of the other 3 roles would be better additions.
Defender: Well, Binwin goes down a lot, so another front liner would definitely be appreciated. Nothing says 'we're going to acquire your stuff' like 2 big meaty defenders.
Leader: In the last two podcasts we've seen the party go down quite a bit, so anyone that can offer healing and/or extra positioning would definitely be to the benefit of the party. We'd probably want a Leader that feels different than Omin, probably a class that stays back and does his healing from a distance.
Striker: This is the hardest. Wil wasn't using the correct modifiers so it's hard to gauge how effective Wil's Avenger really is. Of course strikers are always welcome to the group since dealing loads of damage would take down the enemies faster... Still, I think the party (given its horrid die rolls and bad luck) needs something with a little more staying power than your typical striker. If we were to add an additional striker, he should probably be more of a ranged bent (a kin to the Ranger).
So my bet's on the next member of the party will be a Leader or Defender.
With all the traps Mr. Perkins seems to like to throw at them, methinks they need a rogue.
That's a valid point as well.
However, methinks any new hire will be a class from the PHB 3...
I would love it if a fifth member of the group could be chosen through an online contest. They said they need a rogue in their party. I'm sure that every listener would love to have a chance at being the newest member of Acquisitions Inc. I know that I certainly would.
I was thinking the exact same thing...
...I would refinance my already sold soul to be there for an 8 hour session.
I would love it if a fifth member of the group could be chosen through an online contest. They said they need a rogue in their party. I'm sure that every listener would love to have a chance at being the newest member of Acquisitions Inc. I know that I certainly would.
Actually, this idea was proposed at one point.
I believe the Acquisitions Inc gentlemen turned down the option for now, however - as they're pretty happy with the camaraderie they've all achieved. Which is fair - let's face it, they all play off of each other really well.
While I'd love to enter such a contest myself, I can see where adding a stranger (with unknown personality) could disrupt the flow of those podcasts pretty quickly.
Great idea, however!
Well aside from the fact that they are wonderfully awesome and a fantastically comical time killer
.All I can say is keep em coming, we could always use more flaming dwarves.
My favorite quote:
"I deal half damage on a miss"
"So do you deal full damage on TWO misses?!?!?
I wouldn't mind seeing some nice multi-classing but even then, its not necessary.
After the latest podcasts come out I make the latest drawing they do my background. The last episode drawing was my background for four weeks, in that time I played four times. Those four times I rolled worse than I ever had before, it was only when a friend said that my background worked for me, did I realize what had happened, I had cursed my self with Jerry's terrible rolls! By putting up his worst moments in game I had cause my dice to be infected. Once I took it down and made a dice wall my rolls returned to normal. Thankfully
Huh. I NORMALLY roll crap. So following the basic logic of dealing full damage on two misses...
I'll be rolling twenties like HECK!
Though you DON'T deal full damage on two misses...
I must retreat to my lair to experiment.
Anyways, Acquisitions Inc. SAID they wanted a rogue. So a rouge is what should be given them... even IF another role would be better. I would have a leader, given that avengers CAN achieve quite a good AC at lower levels and thus can act like defenders.
So the rogue would be long-range and carry a HUGE amount of potions with extra starting gold. That's my solution.
Yeah, I'm looking at you, Wil.
PS. And I still want to see minis based on the AI characters. Don't think I forgot about it!
And yes, I want the Acquisitions Incorporated minis too. So much. More than Orcus. So much more than Orcus. (And I want Orcus a lot, it turns out.)
I can bring you up to speed on the latest podcast news.
A few months ago, Wil Wheaton and the folks at Penny Arcade swooped into Wizards HQ and made off with a pile of D&D swag. In the midst of the chaos, they also pitched some cool podcast ideas, one of which featured Jerry running a DARK SUN session for his game group. I won't be involved in that particular game, but I'm actually looking forward to being "on the outside looking in" for a change.
As for Acquisitions Incorporated, we're waiting for various schedules to align. Mike, Jerry, Scott, Wil, and myself are busy beavers, and it's not easy getting us in the same room at the same time, even for a half day. However, there will be an Acq Inc reunion in the not-too-distant future, I assure you. Everyone's up for it. Plans are in the works! Aeofel must be avenged! If I was a gambling man, I'd bet money on us getting together this summer, but I can't promise anything. However, I can say that the next Acq Inc adventure is written and ready to go.
Christopher Perkins
D&D Senior Producer, RPG R&D
Wizards of the Coast LLC
A few months ago, Wil Wheaton and the folks at Penny Arcade swooped into Wizards HQ and made off with a pile of D&D swag. In the midst of the chaos, they also pitched some cool podcast ideas, one of which featured Jerry running a DARK SUN session for his game group. I won't be involved in that particular game, but I'm actually looking forward to being "on the outside looking in" for a change
I think I said that. :P
Hey all,
I can bring you up to speed on the latest podcast news.
A few months ago, Wil Wheaton and the folks at Penny Arcade swooped into Wizards HQ and made off with a pile of D&D swag. In the midst of the chaos, they also pitched some cool podcast ideas, one of which featured Jerry running a DARK SUN session for his game group. I won't be involved in that particular game, but I'm actually looking forward to being "on the outside looking in" for a change.
As for Acquisitions Incorporated, we're waiting for various schedules to align. Mike, Jerry, Scott, Wil, and myself are busy beavers, and it's not easy getting us in the same room at the same time, even for a half day. However, there will be an Acq Inc reunion in the not-too-distant future, I assure you. Everyone's up for it. Plans are in the works! Aeofel must be avenged! If I was a gambling man, I'd bet money on us getting together this summer, but I can't promise anything. However, I can say that the next Acq Inc adventure is written and ready to go.
Christopher Perkins
D&D Senior Producer, RPG R&D
Wizards of the Coast LLC
This is very very good news, indeed!
Acq Inc. lives, and profits are up,
Jim Darkmagic swag is selling out.
Are the Dark Sun episodes downloading properly for everyone? Eps 5 and 6 have yet to appear in my iTunes at all. (Not that I can't download them myself anyway, but I like to keep things all organized-like.)
Same. But also, when I try to listen to Episode 6 directly from the website, it plays Episode 4 instead.
Edit to clarify: I'm referring to the embed, not the download button.
Chris, as much as I love listening to you DM (and my wife says your voice makes her a bit "tingly"...WTF?) I gotta say Jerry did a bang-up job running Dark Sun.
I must admit, the only reason I listened to this was because It was Darksun, but it really hooked me in!.. never thought Id say that. The group lacked a arcane type I think, who might of wanted that spell 'book' but on the whole I thought it sounded like an enjoyable session. Twocoins reminded me of a friend whos characters seem to spend more time TKO then awake, so it brought back some memories.
The Monk sounded really strong and Monks are not something I naturally associate with Darksun.
Thanks for the Podcast.
Even after all this time, Season 3 was almost 2 years ago(?), and yet I haven't seen it mentioned that Aeofel wasn't done in by a pit of acid, he was done in by bad math on Wheaton's part. He should have had another round, it might have been possible.
Anyway, these were great. I have them loaded as mp3's on my phone and I listen to them at work when no one is around.
Despite bad math on all of their parts on occasion, and forgetting powers/abilities (seems Omin adds Healer's Lore during the first season only, and forgets afterwards), it was sill a great series, and definitely inspirational. Helped me get the fever for 4e. (Sadly, I was a 3.5 holdout before seeing/hearing these podcasts)
I have been running 4e encounters on the VT, and at home since.
Steve
Thanks for the heads up. I'll look out for that one although I must say the audio only works better for me as I have lots of time to listen and a lot less to watch!
Also I don't know if this is the right thread to mention this but personally the new section in the podcasts about other gaming matters is a real disappointment. I listen to the official DnD podcast because I want to hear about Dungeons and Dragons. If I want general gaming news I would download an appropriate general gaming podcast.
When focused on DnD, in particular the technical and design thnking behind creatures, powers or rules I find the podcast informative and interesting. Anyone reading this post or listening to the podcasts is likely to know the game well enough to know that it easily has enough depth and history to justify a regular, full, purely DnD focused podcast.
Thank you for listening and I will in return keep listening - and when I have the time watching!
Regards
Archie