AD&D - Let's dive into the Thief abilities from the PHB

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

MP3•Pagina principale dell'episodio

22:49

Jonathan Jones is an NFL cornerback for the Washington Commanders who rose from the undrafted ranks to become two-time Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots, a businessman, philanthropist, and licensed pilot. In 2019, Jonathan founded the Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation in 2019, a platform dedicated to empowering youth through education, professional development, and mentorship. The foundation works to alleviate food insecurity, promote women in stem and sports, and to promote professional development in the communities where he lives. Jay and Jonathan talk about investing in the communities they live in, acknowledging the people who helped you become the person you are, and paying that same investment forward to the next generation. Episode Chapters 0:00 intro 1:24 Building local connections 4:25 Jonathan’s mentors and mentees 10:54 Jonathan’s pride in his mentees’ successes 13:04 how Jonathan chooses his causes 14:08 Jonathan’s support for girls and young women 17:19: Jonathan’s passion for flying 19:40 The Next Step Foundation 20:29 Goodbye For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ Looking for more insights into the world of activism? Be sure to check out Jay’s brand new book, Find Your Fight , in which Jay teaches the next generation of activists and advocates how to step up and bring about lasting change. You can find Find Your Fight wherever you buy your books, and you can learn more about it at www.jayruderman.com .…

22 giorni fa 21:46

In today's episode, I received an email from Tom asking me to take a look at the abilities of the Thief from the PHB and give some commentary on how I'd handle somethings.

#TSR #PHB #Thief #Adnd

http://ko-fi.com/TheEvilDM for Support!

276 episodi

#Lifestyle #Games and Gambling #Evil Dungeon Master #Today I

AD&D - Let's dive into the Thief abilities from the PHB

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

published 22 giorni fa

MP3•Pagina principale dell'episodio

In today's episode, I received an email from Tom asking me to take a look at the abilities of the Thief from the PHB and give some commentary on how I'd handle somethings.

#TSR #PHB #Thief #Adnd

http://ko-fi.com/TheEvilDM for Support!

276 episodi

#Lifestyle #Games and Gambling #Evil Dungeon Master #Today I

Tutti gli episodi

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D Fighters: Powerhouses or Punching Bags? 11:25

4 giorni fa11:25

11:25

In this episode, I take a hard look at the original AD&D 1st Edition Fighter. No spells. No tricks. Just steel, grit, and hit points. Was it enough? Or did the Fighter fall behind as the game scaled up? I’ll break down what made the Fighter strong, where it stumbled, and why it’s still worth playing when the dice hit the table. Whether you’re rolling 3d6 down the line or wielding a vorpal sword, this one’s for the old-school bruisers.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Godlike Stats & Divine Powers – Deities, Dragon #67, and Demigod Dreams 19:48

6 giorni fa19:48

19:48

In this episode, I crack open Deities & Demigods and dig into those legendary stat blocks, from Strength 19 to a god-tier 25... and what those numbers actually do. Then we head to Dragon Magazine #67, where Gygax updates the standard powers of the gods. To top it off, I share a tale from my campaign about the time my character took the long, divine road to demigod-hood under the guidance of the one and only Joe DM. #ADnD #OldSchoolDND #DeitiesAndDemigods #DragonMagazine #Gygax #TTRPGLore #DungeonsAndDragons #OSR #Demigod #TabletopRPG #ClassicDND Support me: https://ko-fi.com/TheEvilDM…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Hatched to Kill: Assassin Bugs in your game! 13:11

13 giorni fa13:11

13:11

In this episode, I spotlight one of AD&D’s most gruesome and underused monsters—the Assassin Bug. It paralyzes victims, implants eggs, and unleashes a swarm of death from the inside out. I break down how to use it for maximum dread, from cursed noble houses to larval horrors in the city sewers. Perfect for DMs who want body horror without homebrewing a thing. #ADnD #TTRPGHorror #OSRGaming #OldSchoolMonsters #MonsterSpotlight #DungeonMasterTools Support me: https://Ko-fi.com/TheEvilDM…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - The Leprechaun! 8:08

15 giorni fa8:08

8:08

Today’s episode is about the enchanting (or annoying) leprechauns! These small, magical beings are known for their mischievous nature and love for lush, green landscapes. With a unique ability to become invisible and create illusions, leprechauns are never easy to catch! Did you know they snatch valuable objects from unsuspecting adventurers with a 75% success rate? Even more fascinating is their cleverness, if you find them in their lair, be careful! They’re experts at tricking captors into believing they’re handing over their treasure when they really aren’t. Plus, leprechauns adore wine, which may help you outsmart them. Join us as we explore their traits, defenses, and the playful, mischievous character that makes leprechauns a beloved figure in folklore! Support: https://Ko-fi.com/TheEvilDM Links: https://solo.to/TheEvilDM…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Looking at the Thief abilities Clarifications in the DMG 16:11

20 giorni fa16:11

16:11

Today is a follow up to the podcast on Monday about the thief abilities. Today we look at the DMG, where it clarifies how some of the abilities CAN be used, to prevent some "abuse" by players. #TSR #PHB #Thief #Adnd http://ko-fi.com/TheEvilDM for Support!

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Let's dive into the Thief abilities from the PHB 21:46

22 giorni fa21:46

21:46

In today's episode, I received an email from Tom asking me to take a look at the abilities of the Thief from the PHB and give some commentary on how I'd handle somethings. #TSR #PHB #Thief #Adnd http://ko-fi.com/TheEvilDM for Support!

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Shaman and Witch Doctor Spells.. 11:41

29 giorni fa11:41

11:41

In today’s episode, I flip open the DMG and talk about tribal spell casters. These magical beings exist among various races, including bugbears, cavemen, and trolls. First I go over the two main types of tribal spell casters: shamans and witch doctors. Shamans are spiritual clerics who practice powerful healing and protective spells. They’re known for their connection to nature and the spiritual realm. On the other hand, witch doctors blend clerical and magic-user abilities, wielding a variety of spells from illusions to enhancements. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy games or just curious about magical lore, this episode will give you insight into life as a tribal spell caster, their powers, and how they fit into their clans. Stick around for an exciting journey into the spellbinding world of tribal magic! https://solo.to/TheEvilDM #adnd #osr #shaman #greyhawk #gygax…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Let's Talk "Hub" Campaigns... 12:29

5 weeks fa12:29

12:29

I got an email from Jeff (another Jeff), who wanted to know about Hub campaigns, so I decided to do a podcast on his email. SO... in today’s episode, I am diving head first into the concept of mission-based worlds in tabletop role-playing games, or RPGs. A hub or mission-based campaign serves as a central base where characters can regroup, heal, and gather supplies after their adventures. This approach isn’t just for video games; it can be incredibly effective in RPGs too! #rpg #TTRPG #adnd #tsr #gygax…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Elf subraces from UA 16:56

5 weeks fa16:56

16:56

In today’s episode, I flipped open the UA to the race section and decided to talk to about the different sub-races that make Elves unique. l'll introduce you to the noble Gray Elves, who share many abilities with high elves, but come with their own twist. Then, we will meet the Wood Elves, known for their connection to nature and woodland creatures, followed by the elusive Wild Elves, or Grugach, who avoid outsiders and revel in their mysterious lifestyles. I will also explore the Valley Elves, who are shunned by others but have intriguing traits. Finally, the Dark Elves, or Drow, a divergent and complex group that differs vastly from their surface cousins.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Demons & Demon Amulets Thoughts. 23:05

6 weeks fa23:05

23:05

Today on the podcast, I decided to talk about my experiences in running Demons and an interesting story about how I've seen a Demon's Amulet used. These unique objects hold the vital essences of powerful demon lords and princes, cleverly keeping their souls both safe and vulnerable. Imagine having the power to control a demon for a whole day—not an easy task, and certainly not without its dangers! An amulet lets its possessor command the demon, but only if they’re careful. If misused, the amulet can lead to dire consequences for the wielder, including the risk of instant attack from the demon itself. We also discuss the astral and ethereal planes where demons roam, and the risks involved if you say the name of a powerful demon out loud.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Grappling Rules from Unearthed Arcana 11:47

6 weeks fa11:47

11:47

In today’s episode, I decided to flip open the UA Book and talk about the mechanics of grappling in combat. Grappling is a powerful move used to restrain opponents, preventing their actions and making them more vulnerable. We’ll explore how grappling works, from the rules for successful grapples to the advantages and disadvantages for both grapplers and grappled targets. Learn how multiple attackers can work together, and discover what happens when a grappled opponent fights back. #dnd #Grappling #adnd #OSR…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - The Death Spell! 16:55

7 weeks fa16:55

16:55

On today's Podcast, I decided to flip open the book and look at the Magic User 6th level spell, The Death Spell. It's an interesting spell that once cast, there is no saving throw against it and basically the target is dead. The Death Spell is a powerful 6th-level conjuration that instantly and irrevocably slays creatures within its area of effect, with no saving throw. The number of victims depends on their hit dice—wiping out up to 80 creatures with less than 2 HD or scaling down to just a few tougher foes. However, it’s useless against lycanthropes, undead, or extraplanar beings. With a casting time of six segments and a pricey material component (a crushed black pearl worth 1,000 GP), this spell is a devastating battlefield tool, ideal for clearing out hordes of weaker enemies in an instant. Keep up with me: https://Solo.To/TheEvilDM…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Orcs with Pig faces.. 15:03

7 weeks fa15:03

15:03

Today on the podcast, I decided to go over the Orcs and how they are structured as a tribe, from the lowly ones to the chief and his assistants, there is a lot to know about orcs! Orcs are common, lawfully evil creatures characterized by their competitive nature and a strong inclination to fight among themselves unless controlled by a powerful leader. They prefer dark environments due to their aversion to sunlight, suffering penalties when exposed to it. Orc tribes are numerous and often found dwelling in underground lairs or simple above-ground villages. They display a hierarchy with leaders and assistants in their ranks, and their encounters often include a significant number of orcs, particularly if they are in their lairs or engaged in raiding activities. Orcs are known for their cruelty, particularly towards elves, whom they kill on sight. Their physical appearance is unattractive, with a color scheme that includes earthy tones, and they are recognized for their mining and tunneling skills. Additionally, orcs are known to interbreed with other races, resulting in half-orcs. #adnd #orcs #dnd #TSR…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Zero Hits Points, Dead? No so fast! 14:36

8 weeks fa14:36

14:36

In the podcast episode, I'm talking about the mechanics of hit points in AD&D, particularly focusing on the concept of "Zero Hit Points." When a character's hit points drop to zero, they become unconscious, leading to a gradual decline into negative hit points each round until they reach -10, resulting in death due to various causes like shock or bleeding. Timely assistance from allies can stabilize an unconscious character through actions like binding wounds or administering healing potions. Reviving a character who has fallen to zero hit points is not a quick process; they will remain in a comatose state for 1-6 turns and must rest for an entire week afterward, during which they cannot engage in any strenuous activities. This downtime emphasizes the importance of tactical decisions in gameplay and the need for strategic support from teammates. The discussion also covers potential long-term effects of extreme negative hit points, such as scarring or loss of limbs, adding depth to character narratives and consequences of battle. #RPG #TabletopGames #HitPoints #GameMechanics #CharacterDeath #RolePlaying #DungeonsAndDragons…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Sticky Situations: The Adherer Unleashed 16:02

8 weeks fa16:02

16:02

Hey, folks! Today, we’re talking about the adherer...a weird, sticky monster from the Fiend Folio. Picture a mummy, but alive, with dirty white skin that looks like bandages and oozes super-strong glue. It’s rare, shows up alone or in small groups, and loves ambushing prey by hiding in piles of leaves or dirt. Its armor’s tough, AC 3 and it’s got 4 hit dice, so it’s not a pushover. The adherer’s big trick? Anything that touches it sticks, like weapons or people, and it only does 1-3 damage with its fists. Fire hurts it bad, just like a mummy, and boiling water messes up its glue for a bit. It’s smart enough to team up with spiders but won’t attack them. Oh, and it’s lawful evil—creepy and tricky! Stick around for more monster talk! #adnd #tsr #greyhawk #dnd #TTRPG…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Let's talk Theater of the mind 21:45

9 weeks fa21:45

21:45

Today on the podcast, I'm talking Theater of the Mind—the old-school, no-map, pure-imagination way to run your tabletop RPGs. Some love it, some hate it, but for me? It’s one of the best ways to keep the game fast, cinematic, and immersive. I’ll break down how to run a killer game without needing a battle map, give some practical tip s for describing action so your players stay engaged, and explain when it works best (and when maybe you should break out the minis). If you want your fights to feel like something out of a comic book panel rather than a grid-based chess game, this episode is for you. #TTRPG #TheaterOfTheMind #TabletopGaming #DMAdvice #RoleplayingGames #ImmersiveStorytelling…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Appendix F: Gambling, plus my homebrew game 15:43

9 weeks fa15:43

15:43

Today on the podcast, I am talking about Appendix F, gambling rules, followed up by my own homebrew "Mug Toss" game. Check it out! #adnd #dnd #TSR #Gygax #TTRPG

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Appendix H: Tricks, but are they harmless? 19:44

10 weeks fa19:44

19:44

Let's talk about Appendix H and the creative potential of traps and tricks within a dungeon setting, emphasizing the importance of innovation for Dungeon Masters (DMs). It suggests that even seasoned DMs can benefit from a variety of tricks that can challenge players and probably screw them over. #DMTips #dnd #Adnd…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Let's talk about training for new levels 12:18

10 weeks fa12:18

12:18

Today I wanted to discuss the mechanics of gaining experience levels in a role-playing game, emphasizing that experience points are merely indicators of a character’s progress and do not automatically lead to level advancement. The Dungeon Master (DM) plays a crucial role in assessing the character’s performance based on their class and alignment. The performance is rated alphabetically, and this rating impacts the character’s eligibility for leveling up. The character must undergo training, which incurs both time and monetary costs. Training must be conducted under a qualified mentor of the same class, and self-training is more expensive. Overall, the process of gaining levels is a structured approach that requires both effort and resources.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Hex Mapping is loads of fun! 12:43

11 weeks fa12:43

12:43

Today on the podcast, I decided to talk about my experiences with Hex mapping, and how I've kind of ignored it over the years and now that I've started actually doing it, I've fallen in love with the entire concept of it. P173 of the AD&D DMG has a whole process about how its done, but you don't have to stop there as there is a plethora of resources on drivethrurpg about how to Hex map. #hexmapping #Mapping #Adnd #TSR #Greyhawk #gygax…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Heroism in a Bottle, Boost your Fighter! 10:07

11 weeks fa10:07

10:07

Need to hit harder, take more damage, and feel like a legend—at least for a little while? Today, I'm talking about the Potion of Heroism and Super-Heroism , the magic drinks that temporarily boost fighters to new heights. More hit dice, better combat skills, and a shot at surviving that impossible fight. But is it a game-changer or just a delay of the inevitable? #DNDMagic #PotionPower #TSR #Dnd #adnd #greyhawk #gygax…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - The Chaos of Casting Stone to Flesh, Storytime! 13:48

12 weeks fa13:48

13:48

In this episode, I am talking about AD&D spell Stone to Flesh spell , exploring its mechanics, its potential uses in gameplay, and of course, the chaotic consequences of casting it recklessly. I share a wild tale from one of my campaigns, where a low-level magic-user decided to use a scroll of Stone to Flesh to resurrect a petrified warrior. Spoiler alert: it did NOT go as planned. What started as a heroic attempt to save a cursed half-orc turned into a nightmare of a pulsating meat swamp , an angry resurrected warrior named Grugnar, and the unexpected arrival of a horrifying meat golem . It’s a hilarious, chaotic tale packed with lessons about spell mechanics, player creativity, and the unpredictable beauty of tabletop RPGs. Tune in for laughs, storytelling, and a reminder of just how wild these games can get! #TTRPG #RPG #adnd #dnd #Greyhawk #TSR…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Magical Item: Magical Eyes 13:02

12 weeks fa13:02

13:02

Today, let's explores four unique magical items known as the “magic eyes” from the Dungeon Master’s Guide for Dungeons & Dragons. Unlike typical magical items that are often gems or artifacts, these magic eyes function similarly to contact lenses, providing various powers to the wearer. The four types discussed include the Eyes of Charming , Eyes of the Eagle , Eyes of Minute Seeing , and Eyes of Petrification . Each item has distinct abilities and drawbacks, making them interesting yet potentially dangerous tools in gameplay. #magicitem #dnd #TSR #ADND…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - the Gorgon, Not the Greek legend? 10:56

13 weeks fa10:56

10:56

Gorgons are rare, formidable creatures resembling bulls and covered in thick metal scales. They inhabit wilderness areas or dreary caverns and possess a unique breath weapon that can turn living beings into stone. This breath attack, which is cone-shaped, can be used four times a day. Gorgons are neutral in alignment, exhibit animal-level intelligence, and primarily rely on their breath weapon rather than physical attacks. With a high armor class and substantial hit dice, they are tough opponents, and their presence can be particularly dangerous in their lairs, where they have a higher chance of encountering adventurers. Despite their strength, gorgons lack magical abilities and have no special defenses. Their awareness extends beyond the physical realm, allowing them to sense creatures in both the astral and ethereal planes.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - The Deadly Allure of the Medusa 12:31

13 weeks fa12:31

12:31

In this episode of The Evil Dungeon Master Podcast, the mysteries and terrors of one of Dungeons & Dragons' most iconic monsters—the Medusa. A creature of beauty and dread, the Medusa is a humanoid monstrosity with a petrifying gaze that can freeze adventurers in their tracks—literally. The Medusa’s deadly stare isn’t her only trick. If adventurers get too clever and avert their eyes, they’ll find themselves up against her poisonous bite—a potent reminder that this isn’t a foe to underestimate. Whether lurking in a cursed ruin or masquerading as a mysterious noble in an urban setting, the Medusa is as versatile as she is dangerous. #Osr #adnd #DNDLore #DungeonMasterTips #MedusaTactics…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - The Power and Perils of the Animate Dead Spell 12:21

14 weeks fa12:21

12:21

Today, we’re talking about one of D&D’s most iconic and underappreciated spells— Animate Dead . This third-level necromancy spell lets you turn lifeless bones into loyal minions, but let’s be honest—how often do players actually use it? We’re breaking down everything you need to know: how it works, why villains love it, and how players can use it to their advantage. I’ll share some of my own experiences running Animate Dead in games, the strategies behind choosing skeletons or zombies, and how to keep your undead horde in check. We’ll also touch on the moral dilemmas that come with animating corpses—because nothing says “party tension” like summoning skeletons in a holy temple. Whether you’re a cleric looking to bring some backup or a Dungeon Master managing the chaos of the undead, this episode has you covered. #Adnd #OSR #RaiseTheDead #AnimateDead #DNDSpells #TTRPGUndead…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Let's reflect on magical mirrors 12:04

14 weeks fa12:04

12:04

Today I am going over the magical mirrors found in Oriental Adventures book and creative ways to incorporate these mirrors into your game. Want a side quest? Have a noble send the party after a Mirror of Curing to save their ailing child. Need a horror twist? Drop a Mirror of Fear in a cursed manor and watch the players squirm as their worst nightmares come to life. Or maybe you’re looking to spice up combat—throw in a Mirror of Spirit Seeing to reveal those pesky invisible threats. These magical mirrors don’t just sit pretty; they drive your story forward. Whether they’re hidden in treasure hoards, used as tools by nefarious cults, or integrated into multi-layered puzzles, these items are a DM’s best friend for creating unforgettable moments at the table. #DNDMagicItems #adnd #TTRPG #OSR…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - FATIGUE AND EXHAUSTION 14:43

14 weeks fa14:43

14:43

On this episode of The Evil Dungeon Master Universe Podcast, I decided to talk about a topic that often gets overlooked in Advanced Dungeons & Dragons—fatigue and exhaustion. Today I will be breaking down why these mechanics are more than just extra rules—they’re game-changers that add depth, realism, and real stakes to your adventures. From how fatigue drains your characters' abilities to the chaos that unfolds when it’s ignored. Whether you’re a veteran Dungeon Master or just getting your feet wet, he’s got tips for making fatigue not just a rule, but a tool to crank up the immersion. Stick around, reflect on your own campaigns, and join the conversation—because the grind of adventuring should feel as gritty as it gets. #ADNDRealism #TTRPGFatigue #DMWisdom…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Nixies: Enchanting Foes or Underwater Nightmares? 10:56

15 weeks fa10:56

10:56

Let’s talk about nixies—the water sprites that are as enchanting as they are dangerous. These rare little tricksters live in hidden seaweed lairs and have a charm ability that can turn even the toughest adventurer into their personal puppet for a year. Yeah, a year . They’re smart, they’ve got combat moves that work underwater or on land, and they can summon schools of fish to make your life a living hell. But here’s the kicker—they’re terrified of fire and bright light, which means they’ve got exploitable weaknesses if you play it smart. So, what are nixies, really? Are they charming allies waiting for the right offer, or are they manipulative captors hiding something more sinister? In this episode, we’ll break it all down—their abilities, their weaknesses, and the strategies you need to deal with these aquatic nightmares. Tune in and learn why these slippery sprites are more than just another monster in the manual. #ADNDLore #DMSecrets #FantasyCreaturesExplored…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D True Neutral: The Alignment That Tests Every DM 13:07

15 weeks fa13:07

13:07

Let’s talk about True Neutral, or as I like to call it, “the alignment that makes my job as DM a complete nightmare.” This episode is all about why I can’t stand tracking this philosophical mess in Advanced Dungeons & Dragons. Sure, it sounds nice on paper—balance between good and evil, chaos and law—but in practice? It’s a headache. #ADNDTrueNeutral #AlignmentMatters #OldSchoolDND Support: https://Ko-fi.com/theEvilDM…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
Plague & Peril: Surviving Disease in AD&D 16:10

16 weeks fa16:10

16:10

Welcome to the dark side of AD&D—where the sword isn’t your only enemy. In this episode, we’re digging into disease and parasitic infestation mechanics and how they crank up the tension in your campaign. From sweltering jungles to filthy cities, I’ll break down how these rules challenge players to survive more than just combat. We’ll talk modifiers, contraction chances, and how to turn these mechanics into rich storytelling moments. So grab your hand sanitizer—this one gets messy. #ADNDMechanics #DungeonMasterTips #OldSchoolGaming Support: Click Join on youtube! https://Ko-fi.com/TheEvilDM…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D is more Dangerous than 5e, here's why.. 18:02

16 weeks fa18:02

18:02

This one’s personal, folks. It all started with an argument at work—a friendly debate about how the old ( Advanced Dungeons & Dragons) is lame, while 5th Edition (5E) , is much better. Naturally, I knew I had to prove my point (because, let’s face it, I’m right). So I crunched the numbers, created identical fighter characters for both systems, and put them to the test. The results? No surprises here for you AD&D fans: 5E makes combat easy mode. Fighters in 5E hit more, hit harder, and level up faster, but that’s exactly why AD&D feels so much more rewarding. In AD&D, every hit is a victory, and every miss keeps the tension alive. It’s not just about rolling dice—it’s about survival, strategy, and earning your wins the hard way. I know I’m preaching to the choir with you, my loyal audience, but this one’s still worth tuning in for. Let’s dive into the gritty details, break down the differences, and maybe throw a little shade at 5E while we’re at it. If you’ve ever wanted hard evidence on why AD&D hits different (pun intended), this is the episode for you. #DungeonsAndDragons #ADnDvs5E #RPGCombatShowdown…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Cantrips can be useful, listen in. 12:58

16 weeks fa12:58

12:58

The Tie cantrip in Dungeons & Dragons serves as a versatile tool for illusionists, allowing them to creatively manipulate their environment and enhance gameplay. This spell can be employed in various inventive ways, such as setting traps, securing gear, creating barriers, and distracting enemies. Illusionists can also leverage the cantrip for tactical advantages in combat, assist in rescue operations, and even engage in artistic displays. Furthermore, the Tie cantrip can facilitate puzzle-solving and establish signaling systems, thus enriching the overall gaming experience with strategic depth and creativity. With its range of applications, the Tie cantrip encourages players to think outside the box and use their spells in multifaceted ways. Highlights 🎭 Trap Setting: Utilize the Tie cantrip to set up snares or tripwires for ambushes. 🎒 Securing Gear: Keep belongings safe while camping by tying them down with the cantrip. 🚧 Creating Barriers: Form makeshift barriers to block paths or slow down enemies. 📣 Distraction: Create noise distractions by tying objects together, diverting attention from the party. 🛑 Rescue Operations: Quickly secure ropes for rescue scenarios, aiding party members in danger. ⚔️ Creative Combat Tactics: Disarm enemies by tying their weapons or restricting their movement with the cantrip. 🎨 Artistic Displays: Impress NPCs or enhance role-playing opportunities with intricate rope designs. Support: https://Ko-fi.com/TheEvilDM…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
End of the Year Wrap up show, Emptying the email bag! 22:24

17 weeks fa22:24

22:24

It’s hard to believe, but here we are—the end of the year and the final show for 2024! Time flies when you’re slaying dragons, spinning tales, and rolling dice. For this special episode, I decided to do a little housekeeping and tackle the email bag . That’s right—I’ve gathered up all the questions you’ve sent my way over the past year, the ones I haven’t had the chance to answer yet, and I’m clearing them out in one big, jam-packed show. Could your question be one of the lucky ones I dive into? Well, there’s only one way to find out—tune in and see if your name or query makes the cut. Thanks to everyone who’s written in, subscribed, or joined me in the hobby this year. You’ve made this journey incredible, and I’m already cooking up big plans for 2025. But for now, let’s send off 2024 in style—answering your burning questions and dropping some DM wisdom to close out the year. Got a question for future shows? Don’t wait! Shoot an email to askthedm@theevildm.com . Want to support the channel or catch bonus content? Hit up youtube.com/@theevildm/join . Here’s to another year of adventures, laughter, and maybe a few critical hits. Roll high, my friends, and I’ll see you in 2025!…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Cleric Command Spell Thoughts.. 12:36

19 weeks fa12:36

12:36

The “Command” spell allows a cleric to issue a single, clear command to a creature that understands the language. The target must obey the command for one round, provided it’s unambiguous. Common commands include “halt” or “flee.” Undead and some intelligent creatures may resist the spell with a saving throw, ensuring it’s not foolproof. Highlights 🗣️ Single Command : The spell issues one clear command. 👥 Language Dependent : The recipient must understand the command’s language. ⏳ Duration : Lasts for 1 round only. 🧠 Intelligence Check : Creatures with high intelligence can resist. ⚔️ Undead Immunity : Undead creatures are unaffected. 🚫 Ambiguity Matters : Commands must be unequivocal to be obeyed. 🎭 Common Commands : Examples include “stop,” “flee,” and “sleep.”…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Changing up how Clerics get spells? 9:54

19 weeks fa9:54

9:54

In Dragon Magazine #92, Gary Gygax wrote and article discussing that the way Cleric's get their spells isn't really written in stone and you as the DM can change it up a bit. Clerics and druids have access to all spells without needing spell books, as their powers are granted by their deities. While the rules allow flexibility, experienced Dungeon Masters may alter these to enhance gameplay. The balance of power is crucial, allowing for the removal or addition of spells based on character faithfulness and the campaign’s needs. This can lead to interesting dynamics, such as withholding spells from unfaithful clerics or druids. Highlights -📜 Clerics and Druids’ Spells: Access to all spells without spell books. DM Flexibility: Experienced Dungeon Masters can modify rules for better gameplay. Balance is Key: Maintaining game balance is crucial when altering spells. Faithfulness Matters: Rewards and penalties based on character faithfulness. Spells Can Be Withheld: Justifiable reasons exist for withholding spells from characters. Druidic Abilities: Druids have specific abilities based on their deities. Character Dynamics: Faith and adherence impact character powers significantly.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Wishes, Alter Reality Spells and Attributes.. 9:08

20 weeks fa9:08

9:08

Players often use wishes or alter reality spells to boost their character’s ability scores. However, to prevent characters from easily achieving high scores (like multiple 18s), it’s suggested that once an ability score reaches 16, wishes only increase it by 1/10th of a point. Thus, raising a score from 16 to 17 requires 10 wishes. Magical books or devices can still raise scores above 16 by a full point, but wishes are limited in their effectiveness. Highlights -✨ Players commonly use wishes to enhance ability scores. Unlimited wish use may lead to imbalanced characters. A cap is suggested for ability scores at 16 and above. Wishes increase scores past 16 by only 1/10th of a point. Raising a score from 16 to 17 requires 10 wishes. Magical items can still raise scores above 16 fully. The restriction applies only to wishes, not other methods.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Advice on Making Taverns a little more interesting.. 11:02

20 weeks fa11:02

11:02

Today's podcast, I got an facebook message on my page from John P, asking about how to make Taverns a little less boring. Each tavern should have a unique style , distinct food , and interesting NPCs to create memorable experiences for players. Highlights: Style of the Place : Unique ambiance and decor. Food Offerings: Distinctive dishes or "house specials" not found elsewhere. Interesting NPCs: Engaging characters that enhance the experience.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Oriental Adventures Magical Items 11:57

20 weeks fa11:57

11:57

The “Charm of Protection from Theft” is a protective charm written on yellow or red paper that reduces stealth success by 20% for intruders. It must be displayed on the door lintel and inflicts damage on removal by non-owners. The “Diamond Mace” is a magical item that discharges a powerful lightning bolt but has limited charges and can be sold for 1000 ch’ien. The “Drums of Thunder” allow the wearer to perform various magical feats, including flying and controlling weather, with a limited number of charges available. Highlights -🔒 Charm of Protection : Reduces intruders’ stealth success by 20%. Display Requirement : Must be placed on the door lintel for effectiveness. Damage on Removal : Non-owners suffer 2d10 damage if they try to remove it. Diamond Mace : Discharges a powerful 12-dice lightning bolt, limited charges. Value of Mace : Can be sold for 1000 ch’ien when depleted. Drums of Thunder : Versatile magical item with various charging uses. Flight and Control : Allows flying and weather control among other magical functions.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Let's talk Honor Mechanics from OA 15:44

21 weeks fa15:44

15:44

Honor is paramount for a character, reflecting their worth, dependability, and family reputation. Honor can be earned or lost through actions, impacting a character’s social standing, respect, and influence. Unlike traditional notions of good and evil, honor measures deeds accomplished regardless of morality. Characters must carefully track their honor points as their actions can elevate or disgrace their family name. Highlights -🏮 Honor Matters : Power and wealth are meaningless without honor. Earning Honor : Actions like bravery and loyalty increase honor points. Losing Honor : Dishonorable deeds lead to loss of honor points. Family Ties : A character’s honor affects their family’s reputation and vice versa. Class Differences : Honor impacts characters differently based on class and actions. Tracking System : Players must record honor points, awarded by the DM. Consequences of Honor : Low honor can lead to disgrace and loss of status.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Cursed Items and Identifying them... 10:31

21 weeks fa10:31

10:31

Today's podcast topic comes from LeroyD20 on X, he suggested a discussion about cursed items. Cursed items. The bane of adventurers everywhere and the mischievous delight of dungeon masters. You know the drill—our plucky hero picks up a shiny new sword, only to find out it’s not so much “Sword of Slaying” as it is “Blade of Bondage.” But what makes cursed items so delightfully dangerous in AD&D isn’t just their effects—it’s the mystery surrounding them and the inherent gamble in figuring out what you’ve got. Enter the Identify spell.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Thoughts about the Rod of Smiting.. 9:28

21 weeks fa9:28

9:28

Today's podcast is all about the Rod of Smiting. I wanted to discuss this Magical item, because I've seen some confusion surrounding it in regards to how its used and where it falls under for using it. The Rod of Smiting is a +3 magic weapon that deals 4-11 damage (d8 + 3) to most enemies and has special effects against golems and outer plane creatures. Against golems, it inflicts 8-22 damage (2d8 + 6) and can completely destroy them on a roll of 20 or higher, but each hit drains a charge. For outer plane creatures, it also deals normal damage, but a roll of 20 or higher triples the damage and drains a charge. The rod cannot be recharged. Highlights -⚔️ Weapon Type: +3 magic weapon ⚔️ Standard Damage: 4-11 (d8 + 3) hit points ⚡ Against Golems: 8-22 (2d8 + 6) damage 💥 Golem Destruction: Roll of 20+ completely destroys 💣 Charge Drain: Each hit on a golem drains 1 charge 🔋 Outer Plane Damage: Normal damage with special effects 🌌 Non-rechargeable: Cannot be recharged ❌…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Cloak of Guarding from Dragon 91 11:05

21 weeks fa11:05

11:05

The Cloak of Guarding is a gray woolen garment that becomes rigid upon impact, deflecting non-magical missiles and reducing damage from physical attacks. It withstands pressure until it absorbs 25 hit points of damage, after which it disintegrates. However, it offers no protection against heat, cold, or electrical attacks. It has a value of 1500 experience points and can be sold for 10,000 gold pieces. Highlights -🧥 Material : Identical to a woolen cloak in weight and texture. Impact Response : Becomes rigid upon physical blows, deflecting attacks. Damage Reduction : Reduces damage by -2 per die, minimum 1. Pressure Limit : Absorbs up to 25 hit points of damage from sustained pressure. Disintegration : Disintegrates after reaching damage threshold. Rest Requirement : Requires resting to regain protective powers. Elemental Vulnerability : Maximum damage from heat, cold, and electrical attacks.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Designing For Unique Wilderness Encounters 8:41

23 weeks fa8:41

8:41

The article "Designing for Unique Wilderness Encounters" provides Dungeon Masters with tables and instructions to generate unique terrains and features for wilderness encounters. It focuses on integrating environmental diversity into gameplay by considering terrain types, grades, slopes, and features like streams, ponds, and vegetation. The goal is to create realistic and strategic battlefield setups, enhancing immersion in outdoor adventures. Highlights 🎲 Random Tables : Provides comprehensive tables for generating terrain types such as clear, rough, marshy, wooded, and mountainous environments. 🗺️ Terrain Segments : Encourages dividing terrain into four-square-foot areas to determine distinct features in each segment. 🌊 Water Features : Includes streams, rivers, and ponds with guidelines for determining their location and course. 🏞️ Slopes and Grades : Tables account for terrain grades (gentle, steep, sheer) and slope directions, adding verticality and challenge to encounters. 🌳 Vegetation Types : Introduces vegetation levels from featureless areas to dense woods, affecting visibility and movement. 🛡️ Strategic Design : Terrain features impact battlefields, sightlines, and surprise chances, offering tactical depth. 🗓️ Adaptability : Designed for modular use, allowing DMs to blend features or shrink/enlarge them based on specific needs. Key Insights 🌐 Diverse Terrains : Terrain categories include Clear, Rough, Marshy, Wooded, and Mountainous, each with its own table of features and additional elements. 🧮 Probability Distribution : Rolling percentages ensure random yet balanced terrain generation, with most rolls leaning toward common features like hills or light woods. 🚶 Movement Impact : Features like marshes and steep grades reduce movement speed, while slopes and rough ground add positional complexity. 🌲 Visibility and Surprise : Dense woods and featureless areas alter visibility, increasing or decreasing the chances of surprise and combat engagement ranges. 💧 Dynamic Rivers and Streams : Specific rules for placing rivers and determining their direction, crossings, and fords add realism and functional design. ↕️ Elevation and Facing : Tables for slope direction and facing influence player strategy and the placement of enemies or hazards.…

The Evil Dungeon Master Universe

1
AD&D - Magic Item - The LockStone 10:33

23 weeks fa10:33