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Podcasts from Upturned Table

The Weekly LIVE 281 – Sigil DOA, Wildsea Bundle of Holding, Black Powder and Brimstone and RipCrypt Dungeon Sprint

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Wizards of the Coast’s virtual tabletop project, Sigil, appears to be in trouble after mass layoffs eliminated 90% of its development team shortly after launch. Originally announced as part of the One D&D initiative in 2022, Sigil was intended to integrate with D&D Beyond and provide a high-end 3D alternative to existing VTTs like Roll20. However, the platform struggled with performance issues, unclear monetization plans, and a lack of a distinct purpose. Despite high-profile showcases, its reception was lukewarm, with a rushed release in February 2025 requiring a paid D&D Beyond subscription for full access. The layoffs suggest Wizards may be abandoning the project, leaving questions about future updates and support. With only a small team remaining, Sigil risks becoming another failed digital experiment by Wizards of the Coast.

The Wildsea, a narrative-driven weird-fantasy TTRPG by Mythworks, is set in a world overrun by rampant greenery, where chainsaw-powered ships navigate a vast, toxic forest canopy. Players take on roles as wildsailors—descendants of humanity and other strange beings—exploring ruins, hunting creatures, and trading rare goods. The complete Wildsea game line is now available for $19.95 in a Bundle of Holding, including the 368-page core rulebook, two sourcebooks (Storm & Root and Ship Gardens), and two full-length adventures (One-Armed Scissor and Red Right Hand). While the game offers deep immersion and unique mechanics, some rules may require careful interpretation. This limited-time bundle provides everything needed to dive into the richly detailed world of the Verdancy.

Blackpowder & Brimstone is a grimdark fantasy RPG by Benjamin Tobitt, published under Free League’s Workshop label and powered by the MÖRK BORG ruleset. Set in a world of religious schism and war, players take on the roles of desperate adventurers navigating a conflict between the Orthodox and Puritans of the Church of the Sacred Blood. The game blends swashbuckling action with gothic folk horror, featuring black powder weapons, demonic threats, and forbidden magic with dangerous consequences. It offers a rules-light, art-heavy experience with unique weapons, deadly combat, and rich lore. After a successful crowdfunding campaign, Blackpowder & Brimstone is now available through Free League’s store and DriveThruRPG, promising intense, fast-paced gameplay where survival and profit go hand in hand.

RipCrypt, a fast-paced “dungeon sprint” TTRPG, is set to launch in 2025 through a partnership between indie studio Gritsilk Games and major publisher Modiphius Entertainment. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, the game will be released in both retail and online stores, featuring a core rulebook, premium edition, and a control board. Set in the Undergrade, a maze of crypts and catacombs, RipCrypt blends tactical gameplay with immersive storytelling, catering to both newcomers and veteran RPG players. The game emphasizes quick character creation, fast combat resolution, and streamlined mechanics, with a roll-high d8 dice pool and unique progression system. With its lo-fi analog aesthetics, concise 148-page rulebook, and a wealth of illustrated content, RipCrypt aims to offer an engaging, accessible RPG experience that redefines the dungeon-crawling genre.

#sigil #wildsea #freeleague #ripcrypt

D&D Beyond Sigil:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sigil

Wildsea Bundle of Holding:

https://bundleofholding.com/presents/Wildsea

Black Powder and Brimstone (affiliate link):

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/515145/black-powder-and-brimstone-core-book

RipCrypt:

https://gritsilk.com/

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):

https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

https://substack.com/@matthewrobinson3

Chris on social media:

https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:

http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​

https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/upturnedtable

Give us a tip on our livestream:

https://streamlabs.com/upturnedtabletop/tip​

Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe

https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

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The Weekly LIVE 280 – Sigil Released,The Western Reaches, Rising POD Costs and AI Bull Cocks

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Dungeons & Dragons’ new virtual tabletop platform, Sigil, has launched with high expectations but demonstrates significant shortcomings, feeling incomplete and more akin to a pre-alpha version than a polished product. While it boasts aesthetically pleasing 3D graphics and ties to D&D Beyond for character integration, the app struggles with functionality, lacking essential features for game management and customization, which detracts from the user experience. Many users report frustrating bugs and inconsistencies with character imports and game mechanics, suggesting the need for manual oversight. Critics note that despite its visual appeal, Sigil does not adequately compete with established virtual tabletops, and its current state casts doubt on its potential for future improvement. Additionally, feedback from the community reflects skepticism about its overall viability as a go-to platform for D&D sessions, particularly given the limitations on customization and gameplay integration.

The newly launched crowdfunding campaign for the Western Reaches setting, designed for the Shadowdark roleplaying game by the Arcane Library, is rapidly gaining traction, having surpassed half a million dollars within hours of its start. With a goal to reach the million-dollar mark, this sandbox environment includes new classes, ancestries, and themed areas like the Gloaming Forest and Djurum Desert. The offering comes in two hardcover editions, priced at $129 and $149 for a premium version, with fulfillment anticipated by December 2025. As it stands, The Western Reaches already ranks as one of the highest first-day funded tabletop RPG projects, indicating significant interest from the gaming community.

DriveThruRPG has issued a warning to publishers about impending increases in Print on Demand (POD) costs, which could rise significantly—by 20-50%—starting April 1st due to escalating supply costs. This increase primarily affects black and white printing, including both hardcover and softcover formats, attributed to issues such as tariffs and supply chain disruptions. While DriveThruRPG has stated they won’t adjust selling prices immediately, the heightened publishing costs may lead to price increases for customers, particularly impacting smaller publishers who might face reduced profitability. Publishers are encouraged to consider purchasing POD products soon to avoid the upcoming price hikes.

Chris Cocks, Hasbro’s CEO, who has played Dungeons & Dragons for 40 years, emphasizes the importance of trust and collaboration in both gaming and corporate leadership. He has been focusing on a “pivot back to play” strategy at Hasbro, moving away from a previous emphasis on storytelling to enhance product design, innovation, and customer engagement. Cocks has reduced the company’s content spending significantly and shifted its approach toward capital-light licensing to maintain profitability, while also exploring new markets to address emerging challenges. He highlights the need for adaptability within the supply chain and aims to capture a broader customer base by creating affordable toys for emerging markets. Cocks is also an advocate for integrating artificial intelligence into gaming, arguing it can enhance creativity and engagement in Dungeons & Dragons. While he perceives AI as a tool that can democratize content creation, he acknowledges current platforms often fail to compensate creators adequately. He envisions future offerings that could enable parents to customize popular brands like Peppa Pig and enrich D&D campaigns, framing AI as a beneficial addition to the brand. Despite potential challenges related to tariffs and manufacturing costs, Cocks maintains a hopeful outlook for reaching more consumers and evolving Hasbro’s product lines to meet changing demographics and preferences.

D&D Beyond Sigil:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sigil

The Western Reaches Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/shadowdarkrpg/western-reaches

Chris Cocks Interview’

https://www.semafor.com/article/03/06/2025/we-had-to-go-back-to-play-how-hasbros-dungeon-master-ceo-got-serious-about-games

#sigil #wshadowdark #dtrpg #chriscocks

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):

https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

https://substack.com/@matthewrobinson3

Chris on social media:

https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:

http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​

https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/upturnedtable

Give us a tip on our livestream:

https://streamlabs.com/upturnedtabletop/tip​

Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe

https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 41:54 — 41.5MB) | Embed

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The Weekly LIVE 279 – Ernie Gygax Passes, Horus Heresy RPG, Tunnels & Trolls and Fallout Factions

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Ernie Gygax Jr., son of Dungeons & Dragons co-creator Gary Gygax, passed away recently after struggling with health issues, as confirmed by his brother Luke. He played a pivotal role in shaping early D&D by participating in its playtesting and contributing to the game’s mechanics. Notably, he introduced the character Tenser, a wizard whose spells have persisted in D&D lore. Gygax Jr. was also the inaugural manager of the Dungeon Hobby Shop and co-published Gygax Magazine, while later helping establish the third venture of TSR. His death serves as a significant loss to the tabletop role-playing game community.

While Gygax Jr. made critical contributions to D&D’s development, his later years were marred by controversy. After leaving Gygax Magazine due to legal disputes, he became involved in discussions promoting the new TSR, which included instances of disparaging remarks regarding race and gender. His comments led to backlash and subsequent distancing from the second TSR. Despite the controversies, Luke Gygax highlighted his brother’s commitment to mentoring young gamers, showcasing Ernie’s approachable nature and encouragement toward those new to the gaming world.

Cubicle 7 announced the development of a new tabletop RPG set during the Horus Heresy, slated for release in 2026. This significant event in Warhammer 40K lore marks a defining civil war within the Space Marine legions. Players will adopt two characters: a primary Consul in a Space Marine corps and a secondary character with a specialized role, allowing for dynamic gameplay by swapping between characters as needed. Pre-orders for the core rulebook and starter kit are expected to open in the summer of 2026, promising an engaging experience steeped in the rich narrative of the Warhammer universe.

Tunnels & Trolls (T&T) is set to make a notable return in 2025, reintroducing players to a fantasy world populated by trolls—enigmatic creatures formed from earth and rock. Legends tell that these trolls can awaken from their slumber when darkness envelops them, and historical narratives reveal that ancient kingdoms collapsed when trolls roamed the land. Under the guidance of innovative game designers Scott Malthouse and Chris Bissette, T&T aims to merge classic roleplaying elements with new mechanics, ensuring quick and exciting combat experiences. The reimagined edition will cater to all types of gamers, offering options for solo play, one-shot adventures, or detailed campaigns.

Modiphius has released the Fallout: Factions Core Rulebook, expanding on the skirmish-level wargame that allows players to control Wastelander warbands vying for dominance in the Fallout universe. This core rulebook provides comprehensive gameplay instructions, introduces a variety of iconic factions, and outlines an intricate campaign system. Players can explore rich scenarios and character options while engaging with the game’s evolving narrative. With these updates, both Tunnels & Trolls and Fallout: Factions aim to provide immersive and accessible tabletop experiences for players.

#horusheresy #tunnelsandtrolls #falloutfactions #modiphius

Rebellion T&T Announcement:

https://rebellionunplugged.com/tunnels-and-trolls-is-coming-2025/

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):

https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

https://substack.com/@matthewrobinson3

Chris on social media:

https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:

http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​

https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/upturnedtable

Give us a tip on our livestream:

https://streamlabs.com/upturnedtabletop/tip​

Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe

https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

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The Weekly LIVE 278 – Invincible RPG, Dark Horse Closing, Skeleton Key Shutdown and Runequest Bundle

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Free League and Skybound have announced Invincible – Superhero Roleplaying, a tabletop RPG based on Robert Kirkman’s Invincible comic series, which has been adapted into a Prime Video animated show. The game, set to launch on Kickstarter later this year, will feature a Core Rulebook and Starter Set with illustrations by original artists Cory Walker and Ryan Ottley. Designed by industry veterans Adam Bradford and Tomas Härenstam, the RPG will use the Year Zero Engine, promising an immersive, sprawling superhero experience faithful to the original comic’s narrative depth.

Dark Horse is shutting down its iOS comics app, requiring users to download purchased comics by March 30th. While digital comics will remain available on other platforms, this move highlights ongoing concerns about digital ownership. Senator Ron Wyden has urged the FTC to establish clearer guidelines on digital purchases, ensuring consumers understand their rights regarding licensing and potential content loss. Additionally, Amazon is eliminating the ability to download Kindle books to a computer, restricting transfers to Kindle devices and apps, further underscoring the shift toward controlled digital ecosystems.

Wizards of the Coast has reportedly canceled an unannounced AAA horror game in development by its Skeleton Key studio, according to the studio’s Audio Director, Nassim Ait-Kaci. Skeleton Key, founded in 2022, was led by industry veterans such as Christian Dailey and Charles Boyd, with a focus on immersive storytelling and suspenseful gameplay. While the game was never officially revealed, its cancellation follows a trend of major studios shutting down projects amid increasing financial caution in the gaming industry. The lack of job postings on Skeleton Key’s careers page further suggests the project’s termination, though Wizards of the Coast has not provided an official statement.

Fans of tabletop RPGs can grab an incredible deal on RuneQuest, a long-running fantasy roleplaying game, with a Humble Bundle offering 20 digital rulebooks, adventures, and supplements for just $18. Originally released in 1978 alongside Advanced Dungeons & Dragons, RuneQuest is set in the mythic world of Glorantha, where players navigate a richly detailed society influenced by living gods. This bundle includes core rulebooks, bestiaries, adventure modules, and in-depth lore resources, including the Guide to Glorantha, which spans 800 pages. Available until March 15, the deal also includes a 15% discount for Chaosium’s online store, making it a great opportunity for worldbuilding enthusiasts and those looking to explore an alternative to Dungeons & Dragons.

#runequest #invincible #darkhorsecomics #skeletonkey 

Runequest Bundle:

https://www.humblebundle.com/books/runequest-chaosium-inc-books

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):

https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

https://substack.com/@matthewrobinson3

Chris on social media:

https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:

http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​

https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/upturnedtable

Give us a tip on our livestream:

https://streamlabs.com/upturnedtabletop/tip​

Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe

https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

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The Weekly LIVE 277 – Fallen London, Old World RPG, Fighting Fantasy and Dungeon Scrawl on Roll20

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Fallen London: The Roleplaying Game is an officially licensed tabletop RPG set in the eerie, gothic world of Fallen London, a subterranean Victorian city filled with intrigue, immortality, and eldritch horrors. Developed by Magpie Games using the Ædana System, the game allows players to create unique characters and form a “concern”—a group bound by a shared grand ambition, such as overthrowing the Masters, uncovering hidden secrets, or reshaping the world itself. The game introduces a dynamic system of opportunities, leads, and ventures, encouraging player-driven narratives filled with uncertainty and tension. With a rich setting inspired by the original browser game and its spin-offs, players will navigate a world where death is often temporary, devils barter for souls, and reality itself is mutable. Using a dice-based challenge system and mechanics like Menaces and Obsessions, the RPG ensures high-stakes storytelling where characters must balance their desires against the dangers of the Neath.

Cubicle 7’s upcoming Warhammer: The Old World RPG, set in the year 2276 IC, explores the Old World continent 250 years before Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay (WFRP)’s familiar Karl-Franz era. The game will use a d10 dice pool system with no hit points/Wounds and will emphasize “ordinary citizens” as player characters, including Bretonnians and unusual races. The setting focuses on Taalagad near Talabheim, featuring a weaker, more secretive Chaos presence. Designed as a more accessible introduction to Warhammer RPGs, it will launch with a Players Guide, GMs Guide, Starter Set, and expansions. While it won’t replace WFRP, it introduces a sandbox-style enemy organization system to enhance world-building. Fans anticipate further details as the summer release approaches.

The Fighting Fantasy solo adventure gamebooks, originally created by Ian Livingstone and Steve Jackson in 1982, are returning to print in the U.S. for the first time in over 20 years through a collaboration with Steve Jackson Games. These classic gamebooks blend storytelling with RPG mechanics, allowing readers to make choices that shape their adventure. The initial re-release includes five popular titles—The Warlock of Firetop Mountain, Deathtrap Dungeon, City of Thieves, The Citadel of Chaos, and The Forest of Doom—featuring original artwork and improved formatting for readability. A Kickstarter campaign has far surpassed its funding goal, offering pledge options for individual books, full sets, and retailer packages, with shipping planned for June. Fans can also access add-ons like the Choose Cthulhu gamebooks and The Fantasy Trip RPG.

Roll20 has integrated Dungeon Scrawl, a free and easy-to-use mapmaking tool, directly into its virtual tabletop (VTT), making map creation faster and more convenient for Dungeon Masters. With this new feature, users can quickly design dungeons, taverns, or other maps and seamlessly import them into Roll20’s latest Jumpgate version. Dungeon Scrawl offers features like isometric maps, PDF export, and customizable grids, with additional perks for pro-subscribers, such as Dark Mode and Commercial Use Licensing. This integration streamlines mapmaking, allowing DMs to focus more on storytelling and gameplay rather than technical setup.

Fallen Londaon RPG:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/magpiegames/fallen-london-the-roleplaying-game

Fallen London Browser Game:

https://www.fallenlondon.com/login

Official FIGHTING FANTASY website:
www.fightingfantasy.com

Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sjgames/fighting-fantasy-solo-adventure-gamebooks-back-in-print

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):

https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

https://substack.com/@matthewrobinson3

Chris on social media:

https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:

http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​

https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/upturnedtable

Give us a tip on our livestream:

https://streamlabs.com/upturnedtabletop/tip​

Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe

https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

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The Weekly LIVE 276 – Blades ‘68, Osprey New Wargames, Kult: Divinity Lost and Daggerheart Release

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Blades ’68 is an official supplement for Blades in the Dark by Tim Denee and Evil Hat Productions, moving the setting forward 100 years into the turbulent 1960s. Set in Doskvol after the end of Unity War III, the world is now shaped by electroplasmic fusion and the so-called Age of Consensus, marked by science, rationality, and consumerism—but unrest simmers beneath the surface. Players take on the roles of scoundrels, spies, and revolutionaries navigating a world of espionage, crime, and counterculture. With themes inspired by 60s thrillers and a fresh take on Blades in the Dark mechanics, Blades ’68 offers a unique blend of intrigue and danger. The playtest is available now, with a preview on DriveThruRPG.

Osprey Games is set to release three new miniature wargames in 2025, covering historical, sci-fi, and prehistoric themes. Pacific Command, arriving in May, is a World War II naval wargame by Mike Hutchinson, focusing on carrier combat in the Pacific with a fog-of-war mechanic and a dice pool system for resolving battles. Voidfighter, launching in August, is a sci-fi dogfighting game by Casey Garske, allowing players to customize ships with unique traits, weapons, and abilities while engaging in fast-paced space combat. Hide, Stone, And Bone, debuting in November, is a prehistoric survival wargame where players lead tribes through hunting, combat, and resource gathering in a dynamic campaign system. Each game offers distinct gameplay mechanics and thematic depth for tabletop enthusiasts.

Helmgast’s Kickstarter campaign for KULT: Divinity Lost – Dark Realms and Other Horrors expands the award-winning horror RPG with four new books: Metropolis, The Illusion and the Borderlands, Scarlet Bride and Other Tales, and Broken Reflections. These sourcebooks and scenario collections deepen the game’s lore, exploring the hidden supernatural reality behind our world, the terrifying boundaries between dimensions, and new horror-driven narratives. Featuring contributions from veteran writers, haunting artwork, and high-quality hardcover editions, this ambitious project caters to fans of KULT‘s dark storytelling. Additional add-ons include Deep Waters, Voices from Beyond the Veil, Exiled Terrors, and The Seeker’s Testament, offering even more chilling content.

Critical Role’s new fantasy RPG, Daggerheart, developed by Darrington Press, is set for release on May 20, 2025, with pre-orders opening the same day. Featuring a card-based mechanic and unique Hope & Fear dice, Daggerheart blends traditional RPG elements with innovative character creation using domains, ancestry, and community cards. The game will be available physically through Daggerheart.com, Darrington Press Guild, and FLGS, while digital editions will be on Demiplane and DriveThruRPG. A limited-edition Core Set with exclusive content will also be available. Alongside the launch, Critical Role will run a Daggerheart miniseries featuring the dark Age of Umbra campaign setting developed by Matt Mercer, inspired by Dark Souls and Kingdom Death: Monster. While speculation continues about Critical Role shifting to Daggerheart for its main campaign, upcoming announcements later this spring will clarify their future plans.

#blades68 #ospreygames #kult #daggerheart

Blades’68 Playtest:

http://evilh.at/68-playtes

KULT: Divinity Lost Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/helmgast/kult-divinity-lost-dark-realms-and-other-horrors

Daggerheart Pre-oreder:

https://www.daggerheart.com/pre-order/

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):

https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

https://substack.com/@matthewrobinson3

Chris on social media:

https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:

http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​

https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/upturnedtable

Give us a tip on our livestream:

https://streamlabs.com/upturnedtabletop/tip​

Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe

https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

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The Weekly LIVE 275 – Green Ronin, Dark Tower Deluxe, Netrunner and Resistance Bundle

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Green Ronin Publishing is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025 with a yearlong series of special events, sales, and reflections on its history. Founder Chris Pramas entered the RPG industry as a freelancer in 1993 and worked on various RPGs before joining Wizards of the Coast in 1998. After spending time writing for Advanced Dungeons & Dragons and working on the Chainmail miniatures game, Pramas missed RPG writing and launched Green Ronin in 2000 as a side project. The company’s first release, Ork! The Roleplaying Game, debuted at Origins 2000, inspired by humorous, freeform RPG sessions from the early ’90s. This was followed by Death in Freeport, a fantasy adventure that gained critical acclaim and cemented Green Ronin’s place in the industry. Since then, Green Ronin has become a major RPG publisher, with Ork! still going strong and new projects like Swords of the Shadow Planet on the horizon.

Goodman Games continues its Original Adventures Remastered line with Dark Tower Remastered, a deluxe reimagining of the classic 1979 Dungeons & Dragons module by Jennell Jacquays. The three-book slipcase set includes a faithful reproduction of the original dungeon, a remastered adaptation for Dungeon Crawl Classics (DCC) and Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, and expanded content featuring new adventures that extend the campaign. Known for its nonlinear dungeon design and emergent storytelling, Dark Tower remains influential in RPG history. This remastered edition not only modernizes the adventure but also deepens the experience with additional lore, commentary, and adventures. For fans of classic dungeon-crawling, Dark Tower Remastered offers a robust and immersive campaign that captures the spirit of old-school RPGs while introducing new elements for contemporary players.

Null Signal Games has announced Elevation, a new expansion for the Netrunner card game, set for release in Q2 2025. Netrunner is a two-player asymmetric card game set in a cyberpunk future where hackers battle megacorporations for control. Elevation expands the game’s card pool with new Runner cards, six run events, region upgrades, and an ice inspired by a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set in the futuristic megacity of Kota Kalimantan, the expansion introduces a rich narrative centered around the construction of the Mahkota Langit space elevator and the struggle between corporate control and the displaced undercity residents. The set will be legal for Organized Play in May 2025 and replaces several older sets in Standard format.

Bundle of Holding has launched a Resistance Bundle featuring ten tabletop RPGs centered around anti-authoritarian themes. The collection includes games like Apocalypse Frame, Grey Ranks, and Misspent Youth, which explore rebellion against oppressive regimes in various settings, from dystopian futures to Nazi-occupied Poland. A bonus tier includes Eat the Reich, a game about vampire commandos hunting Nazis, and other subversive titles like Moonpunk and No God’s Country. The bundle is available for a limited time, with proceeds benefiting the Center for Constitutional Rights.

#greenronin #darktower #dcc #netrunner

DarkTower Remastered:

https://goodman-games.com/store/product/dungeon-crawl-classics-dark-tower-3-volume-slipcased-set/

Resistance Bundle:

https://bundleofholding.com/presents/Resistance

Zinequest on Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/zinequest

Support Us by Shopping on DTRPG (afilliate link):

https://www.drivethrurpg.com?affiliate_id=2081746

Matt’s DriveThruRPG Publications:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse.php?author=Matthew%20Robinson

https://substack.com/@matthewrobinson3

Chris on social media:

https://hyvemynd.itch.io/​​

Abusecartoons Weekly Cartoons:

http://www.abusecartoons.com/​​

https://www.twitch.tv/abusecartoons

​​Support Us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/upturnedtable

Give us a tip on our livestream:

https://streamlabs.com/upturnedtabletop/tip​

Intro song is “Chips” by KokoroNoMe

https://kokoronome.bandcamp.com/

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The Weekly LIVE 274 – Astartes 2, Legacy of Kain TTPRG, ENnies Ban AI and Dirtbags! for Zinequest

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Games Workshop has unveiled a new teaser trailer for Astartes II, the much-anticipated follow-up to the acclaimed Astartes animation. While the teaser doesn’t showcase actual footage from the upcoming project, it hints at the backstories of key characters and sets the tone for a grimdark narrative deeply rooted in Warhammer 40,000 lore. Syama, the creator of the original Astartes, is collaborating closely with the Warhammer Studio to deliver another visually stunning and action-packed story. The animation is set to release in 2026, leaving fans with a long wait, but in the meantime, they can explore other Warhammer+ animations, including Return to Cadia from the Hammer and Bolter series.

Meanwhile, the Legacy of Kain franchise is making a return with a tabletop RPG, Scourge of the Sarafan, developed by Lost in Cult and published under the MÖRK BORG system. Set in Nosgoth, the game allows players to take on the role of vampire-hunting warrior-priests as they battle the growing undead menace. Alongside this, The Book of Nosgoth, an in-depth encyclopedia exploring the franchise’s history, lore, and development, is also in the works. Both projects are being crowdfunded and will be available individually or as part of a deluxe edition. With Legacy of Kain’s dark themes of fate, free will, and morality, this revival aims to immerse fans once again in the gothic world of Nosgoth.

The ENnie Awards, a prestigious tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) awards ceremony, has announced that from the 2025-2026 cycle onward, any product containing generative AI content will be ineligible. This decision follows criticism of their previous 2023 policy, which allowed AI-generated content in certain categories while restricting it in others. After receiving feedback from the TTRPG community, the ENnies determined that AI-generated content undermines creativity and originality, leading to this stricter policy. The new rule applies to AI-assisted writing, visual content, and editing, ensuring that all submitted works are entirely human-made. While the policy does not retroactively affect the 2024-2025 awards, it marks a significant shift in response to industry concerns over AI’s role in creative endeavors. The TTRPG community has largely welcomed this decision, seeing it as a victory for human creators in an industry increasingly wary of AI’s influence. Many companies, including Wizards of the Coast, have taken a stance against AI-generated content on ethical grounds, citing issues of originality and fairness. The ENnie Awards, a volunteer-run organization, emphasized their commitment to fostering human-driven creativity and innovation within the community. As the landscape of game development continues to evolve, this policy ensures that the ENnies remain a platform for celebrating genuine artistic and narrative efforts.

Dirtbags! is a fast-paced, rules-lite sci-fi shooter RPG by The Dungeon’s Key, launching on Kickstarter for #ZineQuest on January 28th. Set in a dystopian, corporate-run future, players take on the role of convicts forced into the Military Foundation’s Rehabilitation Incentive Program (R.I.P.), battling alien infestations, pirates, and undertaking dangerous missions in the hope of freedom. The game features three core ability scores, a unique two D6 dice pool system for actions and ammo, and five character roles, emphasizing tactical and cinematic combat. Inspired by Starship Troopers, Tank Girl, and Aliens, Dirtbags! critiques corporate greed and explores mature themes while maintaining an action-packed experience. A free Quickstart Guide will be available at launch.

#astartes2 #legacyofkain #ennies #dirtbags!

Astartes II Trailer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbgYaeerXhg

Legacy of Kain TTRPG on Backerlit:

https://www.backerkit.com/c/projects/lost-in-cult/legacy-of-kain-ttrpg-and-official-encyclopaedia

ENnies Awards Policy:

https://ennie-awards.com/revised-policy-on-generative-ai-usage/

Dirtbags!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/thedungeonskey/dirtbags-a-sci-fi-shooter-ttrpg

Zinequest on Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/zinequest

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The Weekly LIVE 273 – Fate of the Fellowship, McCullough 2025, Evil Genius Games and Bitter Chalice

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The upcoming release of “The Lord of the Rings: Fate of the Fellowship”, a cooperative tabletop game by Matt Leacock and Z-Man Games, brings the world of Middle-earth to life this June. Players will work together as heroes to protect Middle-earth’s havens from advancing enemies while helping Frodo evade the Nazgûl on his journey to destroy the One Ring. With gameplay designed for 1-5 players, the game features 13 characters, 14 event cards, and 24 objectives, alongside stunning artwork and a detailed 11-inch replica of Barad-dûr as the game’s centerpiece. Leacock adapts the system from his renowned Pandemic board game, which has already been reimagined in various settings, such as Star Wars and the Cthulhu mythos. This new game holds special significance for Leacock, as his cooperative game design journey began with Reiner Knizia’s “The Lord of the Rings” in 2000. Now, 25 years later, Leacock shares his personal take on Tolkien’s epic tale. He will be providing design insights leading up to the game’s release and signing early copies at the U.K. Games Expo in May.

Joseph McCullough’s 2025 releases from Osprey Games include a mix of fun, imaginative, and adventurous titles. “Hairfoot Jousting,” a whimsical game about tournament competition, focuses on humor and sportsmanship. The “Stargrave: Death Vector” expansion introduces cyberpunk hacking mechanics and deadly cyborg enemies in a campaign set within the Outlaw Technology Sector. “Frostgrave: Advanced Spellcraft” adds critical spellcasting mechanics and a competitive campaign to celebrate the game’s 10th anniversary, while “The Silver Bayonet: Britain – Bones of Albion” expands its supernatural battles to the British Isles with a full campaign and undead enemies.

Evil Genius Games (EGG), publisher of the Everyday Heroes tabletop roleplaying game, has been under scrutiny for its business practices and leadership issues, as detailed in investigative articles published in 2024. These articles, based on court documents, internal communications, and interviews with former employees, revealed ethical concerns and alleged retaliation against staff who spoke out. Recently, EGG’s CEO, Dave Scott, contacted a Reddit user, asking them to remove a link to one such article, claiming it was harming the company. This request backfired, reviving interest in the article and invoking the “Streisand Effect.” Despite financial backing and recent product launches, including the digital platform “Sidekick,” EGG has faced criticism for its previous use of controversial Web3 technologies and its treatment of employees. Critics argue the company’s struggles stem from leadership decisions rather than external commentary.

Finally, “Bitter Chalice,” a Soulslike fantasy TTRPG, offers players a dark and immersive journey through the cursed Blighted Lands. Inspired by games like Bloodborne and Elden Ring, the game is structured as a meticulously crafted campaign with unique classes, areas to explore, and a dynamic map. Aimed at delivering a challenging yet narrative-driven experience, it avoids the repetitive death mechanics typical of Soulslike video games. The game’s launch promises early bird bonuses and exclusive content for backers.

#pandemic #frostgrave #evilgeniusgames #bitterchalice 

ENWorld’s reporting on Evil Genius Games:

https://www.enworld.org/threads/the-rise-and-fall-of-evil-genius-games.702617/

Evil Genius Games Digital Platform:

https://sidekick.evilgeniusgames.com/

BItter Chalice:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/theworldanvil/bitter-chalice

ch Crusade Late Pledge on MyMiniFactory:

https://www.myminifactory.com/frontier/trench-crusade-late-pledge-3423

Painting Contest Page:

https://www.myminifactory.com/competition/trench-crusade-painting-competition-292

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The Weekly LIVE 272 – Gotham City Chronicles, The Sutra of Pale Leaves,Trench Crusade Late Pledge, Sqwürmish: Grimm Vast Skirmish and Diamond Bankruptcy

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The Batman: Gotham City Chronicles – The Roleplaying Game has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Gamefound, featuring 127 miniatures, books, tile maps, dice, and other materials to immerse players in the Batman universe. Following Monolith Boardgames’ earlier successful campaigns, this new project includes the “Skyline Edition” pledge for RPG content and a “Sidekick” option for miniatures, offering a blend of narrative gameplay and detailed collectible figures. Fans of Batman, RPGs, and miniatures are drawn to the impressive sculpts and comprehensive materials, although some concerns persist about production timelines and shipping costs, with an estimated delivery of January 2026. Despite these uncertainties, the campaign has already surpassed its funding goal, reaching over 282% of the target.

Chaosium has announced The Sutra of Pale Leaves – Twin Suns Rising, a new Call of Cthulhu adventure set in 1980s Japan, featuring the King in Yellow entity. This marks an exciting shift, blending the RPG’s cosmic horror with a modern, unique setting during Japan’s technological boom. Call of Cthulhu is particularly popular in Japan, where scenarios often focus on contemporary, relatable locations rather than historical settings. While limited details are available, the creative team includes notable writers and artists, and fans are eager to explore this fresh narrative and setting. The adventure is slated for release in 2025, appealing to fans of the Vast Grimm RPG and similar modern horror genres.

The Trench Crusade Late Pledge offers a final chance to purchase STL files for the skirmish-scale tabletop miniatures game set in a grim alternate timeline. Factory Fortress Inc’s campaign includes six warbands, reinforcements, and exclusive painting competitions with prizes for categories like Best Painted and Best Diorama. The late pledge provides the full range of high-quality miniatures at discounted prices, attracting both collectors and gamers. Players can dive into this horror-themed tabletop experience, expanding their miniatures collection or showcasing their painting and kitbashing skills.

Diamond Comics Publishers, once a dominant distributor in the comic book industry, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing financial instability due to lost exclusive publisher relationships, inflation, and decreased margins. The company plans to sell key assets, including Diamond UK and Alliance Games, while seeking buyers for other subdivisions like Diamond Select Toys. Diamond’s decline stems from its controversial handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led major publishers like DC and Marvel to seek alternative distributors. While this development could fragment ordering systems for comic book retailers, it signals a potential shift toward more competitive and diverse distribution models in the industry.

#gothamcitychronicles #kinginyellow #trenchcrusade #sqwurmish

Trench Crusade Late Pledge on MyMiniFactory:

https://www.myminifactory.com/frontier/trench-crusade-late-pledge-3423

Painting Contest Page:

https://www.myminifactory.com/competition/trench-crusade-painting-competition-292

Batman: Gotham City Chronicles – RPG : Skyline Edition

https://gamefound.com/en/projects/monolith-board-games-sarl/batman-gotham-city-chronicles—rpg–skyline-edition#/section/box-1-skyline-box-content-60649

Sqwurmish Skirmish Campaign:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/creaturecuration/sqwurmish-a-vast-grimm-sci-fi-skirmish-game-and-miniatures?ref=8pj2yr

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Chris on Itch.io:

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