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The Arcane Alienist

The Arcane Alienist

By B. J. (aka “GameDoc”)

A podcast mostly about tabletop roleplaying games, from game theory and concepts to session recaps to sources of inspiration. I also occasionally delve into other nerdy things like board games, comics, books, movies, and television.

Email: arcane.alienist@gmail.com.

You can leave a voicemail message here or through Speakpipe:

http://www.speakpipe.con/ArcaneAlienist

#oldschoolessentials #d&d5e #mongoosetraveller

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Session Recap: For Eric

The Arcane AlienistMay 08, 2021

00:00
31:18
Four Callers and a Giant Ferret

Four Callers and a Giant Ferret

In this episode I have calls from Joe, Karl, Mirke, and Jason, plus a brief recap of my second Knave/OSE group's last game session.


Hindsightless (Joe Richer)

  • https://open.spotify.com/show/3LMcaHlfCDZrjUGEYEZbYx


The GMologist Presnets (Karl Rodriquez)

  • https://open.spotify.com/show/2rN4slVxXBZpTDxweaR1Ap
  • https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOx7VJObmeKlCjdSDkKZfTQ


Mirke the Meek

  • https://open.spotify.com/show/3C2sM7eSEd6uZoyXlLc0Yo


Nerd's RPG Variety Cast (Jason Connerly)

  • https://open.spotify.com/show/4oPnUnwitpUqn9saEkFaNf
Feb 15, 202437:28
Now It’s a Party (Two Actually)

Now It’s a Party (Two Actually)

I’ve got a couple of calls from Jason and an update on D&D with the a bunch of band kids and theater nerds. Nerds RPG Variety Cast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4oPnUnwitpUqn9saEkFaNf Also be sure to check out some cool solo play from Daniel Norton: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLWlyyPUNLSxVSJUJ5hxyqKMDZnE5LQ9M&si=HI05U8gB3qarjfdl
Jan 31, 202445:41
Theater of the Mind with Theater Kids
Jan 21, 202401:04:45
Raccoon Sky Pirates
Jan 15, 202433:05
Return to the Mythic World of Urd

Return to the Mythic World of Urd

I am a couple of days away from getting back to running my homebrew setting, this time with a city-based adventure and a table full of teenage rookies for players. Here's a little bit of new lore and a question for the audience. Also, we have calls from Jason Connerly and Mirke the Meek regarding computers and video games in D&D. Be sure and check out Mrike's new podcast (and Jason's old one). Mirke the Meek: https://open.spotify.com/show/3C2sM7eSEd6uZoyXlLc0Yo?si=pv_ieh5ITUWPlkJBTRuAsQ&nd=1&dlsi=6297810891104e8c Nerds RPG Variety Cast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4oPnUnwitpUqn9saEkFaNf Dragon Magazine #74: https://annarchive.com/files/Drmg074.pdf
Dec 29, 202336:53
Is D&D Becoming a Video Game, or Vice-Versa?

Is D&D Becoming a Video Game, or Vice-Versa?

Some thoughts on the relationship between tabletop games and video games. Plus calls from Karl and Jason.
Dec 18, 202330:12
Revisiting the Metagame of D&D

Revisiting the Metagame of D&D

In this episode I circle back around to the metagame of Old School D&D - the understanding of what drives the game forward. Plus a fist-time call from the Original Jason (Hobbs) The Random Screed Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0yqtTfxYKD1ap7X39InSFa Here's the episode of Hindsightless were Joe talks about a villain that gets to metagame: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7fak38SQGzXfn5vsSJsHAw?si=LSmqRRcZQ3WI4UpEue6NGg Bandit's Keep videos on procedural play: https://youtu.be/qRcImTmIzdA?si=ELTFpT7hTkvRElzq https://youtu.be/CM0X9TBwVco?si=rU725FQGrJZBHfqH
Dec 06, 202322:00
Indigenous Games of Chance

Indigenous Games of Chance

This is our final episode for Native American Heritage Month. I'll talk about some traditional games of chance as well as Naasii, a push your luck dice game from the makers of Coyote & Crow.

  • https://shop.coyoteandcrow.net/products/naasii-a-coyote-crow-dice-game


Be sure to check out Part 2 of our Coyote & Crow reveiw over on the GMologist Presents:

  • https://open.spotify.com/episode/7EgR8VYC5CAkuaXBG8Ha0T?si=mSR1_BobQ_-4EvASjt3s1w


I also have calls from Jason of the Nerds RPG Varity Cast and Brian of Have to Look That Up.

  • https://open.spotify.com/show/4oPnUnwitpUqn9saEkFaNf
  • https://open.spotify.com/show/6n4mUdWGD0x5r8pI6ZRoYa

Also, check out this great novel by Louis Owens:

  • https://www.amazon.com/Bone-Game-American-Literature-Critical/dp/0806128410

Notes on Cherokee Language:

  • Osiyo = Hello
  • Ulihelisdi, nigade = Welcome, everyone
  • Dagwado B. J. = My name is B. J.
  • Wado = Thank you

Nov 30, 202332:17
Gvhei: The Bobcat

Gvhei: The Bobcat

In this episode for November is Native American Heritage Month, I want to highlight the Bobcat, and independent comic by Cherokee creator James Hostler. Set in Indian Territory, 1898, it’s a blend of superhero, western, steampunk, sci-fi, and historical fiction.

Check it out online: https://www.thebobcat.net/ Notes on Cherokee Language:

  • Gvhei = Bobcat
  • Osiyo = Hello
  • Ulihelisdi, nigade = Welcome, everyone
  • Dagwado B. J. = My name is B. J.
  • Wado = Thank you


Nov 21, 202309:34
Coyote & Crow: Setting Review

Coyote & Crow: Setting Review

November is Native American Heritage Month. In this episode I am joined by frequent collaborator Karl (of The GMologist Presents) and my friend and fellow gamer Sarah to discuss Coyote & Crow (https://coyoteandcrow.net/). We cover the concept and the setting for the game, including the ways it helps players get drawn into an Indigenous mindset. This the first of two reviews. Our second one will appear on The GMologist Presents and will dig more into the game mechanics. Look for it later this month. You can also watch out discussion YouTube: https://youtu.be/7_NZ-3pIZNg?si=XrV6OdaVOafeWfk4 Notes on Cherokee Language: Osiyo = Hello Ulihelisdi, nigade = Welcome, everyone Dagwado B. J. = My name is B. J. Wado = Thank you
Nov 12, 202301:17:59
The Three R’s of OSR October
Oct 14, 202322:24
Good Friends, Good Times

Good Friends, Good Times

In this episode, I have calls from Anthony Boyd (aka, Runeslinger) of the Casting Shadows blog/podcast/YouTube, and Jason Conerly of the Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast. We’ll discuss our recent Hollow Earth Expeditions game, and a little bit of debate about the nature of gunslingers.


Casting Shadows/Runeslinger

  • Blog: https://castingshadowsblog.com/
  • Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sEnjb4ECR6CcfU6Bvug7p
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPNsDvSNFQuknLu_8sakzLQ


Nerd's RPG Variety Cast

  • https://open.spotify.com/show/4oPnUnwitpUqn9saEkFaNf
Oct 08, 202322:50
Review: We Deal in Lead

Review: We Deal in Lead

The GMologist, Karl Rodriguez, joins me in this episode as we roll up a character and review We Deal In Lead, a weird west game from By Odin's Beard RPG. The game uses a version of the Cairn rules and is set in a realm inspired by Steven King's series, The Dark Tower. You can view this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/RBxZbNLv-wM?si=yW37eTuZyO6YjXI5 You can check out more about the game here: https://byodinsbeardrpg.com/books/we_deal_in_lead/ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?app=desktop&list=PLMM-_Btq0jhRq4qQiQQzRpbwpWfK84gR1 And be sure to check out Karl’s podcast and YouTube channel https://open.spotify.com/show/2rN4slVxXBZpTDxweaR1Ap https://www.youtube.com/@thegmologist9270
Sep 23, 202350:39
Call-In Roundup: Heavy Metal Magery & Arcane Archaeology

Call-In Roundup: Heavy Metal Magery & Arcane Archaeology

Calls from Jason Connerly and the Pink Phantom. Be sure to listen to their latest episodes:

  • Nerd's RPG Variety Cast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4oPnUnwitpUqn9saEkFaNf
  • Phantom Thoughts: https://open.spotify.com/show/6FruRifoPx94Vbmi2jGCUr


Also, here a link to the book series Jason mentions in his call:

  • https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XM3SG56
Sep 22, 202313:36
Inspiration: Michael Moorcock's Elric Saga
Sep 16, 202355:05
Heavy Metal Magery
Sep 10, 202343:31
RPG a Day 2023 Call-In Roundup

RPG a Day 2023 Call-In Roundup

In this episode, we have calls from various podcasters about #RPGaDAY2023.

  • Jason of Nerds' RPG Variety Cast
  • Daniel of Bandit's Keep
  • Karl & Amy of The GMologist Presents

Be sure to check out their podcasts as well!


Sep 03, 202333:27
RPG a Day 2023: Day 31

RPG a Day 2023: Day 31

#RPGaDAY2023 comes to a close (Whew!). Maybe your favorite RPG is the friends you made along the way.

Aug 31, 202307:40
RPG a Day 2023: Day 30

RPG a Day 2023: Day 30

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode: obscure role-playing games you may or may not have hear of.

Aug 30, 202305:28
RPG a Day 2023: Days 28 & 29

RPG a Day 2023: Days 28 & 29

It's #RPGaDAY2023 and we are finally caught up. In this episode, the scariest thing I have done to a DM and a very memorable encounter (both of which happen to be the same event).

Aug 29, 202310:36
RPG a Day 2023: Days 26 & 27

RPG a Day 2023: Days 26 & 27

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode, I dodge the question on favorite character sheets and new editions.

Aug 28, 202308:37
RPG a Day 2023: Days 24 & 25

RPG a Day 2023: Days 24 & 25

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode, complex vs. simple RPGs and the games I have on the shelf waiting to be played. Plus a call from Jason Conerly.

  • Nerd's RPG Variety Cast, https://open.spotify.com/show/4oPnUnwitpUqn9saEkFaNf

Also, check out the amazing art of Johan Egerkrans

  • https://www.johanegerkrans.com/
Aug 27, 202320:34
RPG a Day 2023: Days 21, 22, & 23

RPG a Day 2023: Days 21, 22, & 23

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode, we look at licensed properties, cool looking products, and secondhand purchases. Plus, a call from medial baron Daniel Norton. Check out his podcast:

  • Bandit's Keep, https://open.spotify.com/show/02QTUpzgKCv2aT6sH6G5rk
Aug 26, 202319:06
RPG a Day 2023: Days 19 & 20

RPG a Day 2023: Days 19 & 20

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode, my favorite published adventures and a look towards the future. What will I be playing in 20 years? Also, be sure to check out Joe Richter and Anthony Boyd's podcasts:

  • Hindsightless, https://open.spotify.com/show/3LMcaHlfCDZrjUGEYEZbYx
  • Casting Shadows, https://open.spotify.com/show/0sEnjb4ECR6CcfU6Bvug7p
Aug 25, 202311:30
RPG a Day 2023: Days 17 & 18

RPG a Day 2023: Days 17 & 18

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode, the funniest game I've played and thoughts on favorite types of systems. Also, calls from Spencer, Jason, and Karl. Check out their podcasts!

  • Keep Off the Borderlands, https://open.spotify.com/show/6WeOXszl7BrxQvmjrw7xAI
  • Nerds RPG Variety Cast, https://open.spotify.com/show/4oPnUnwitpUqn9saEkFaNf
  • The GMologist Presents, https://open.spotify.com/show/2rN4slVxXBZpTDxweaR1Ap
Aug 24, 202333:46
RPG a Day 2023: Days 14, 15, & 16

RPG a Day 2023: Days 14, 15, & 16

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode - my lack of convention experience is laid bare, and the game I wish I owned. Plus a call from the Joyous Stoic himself, Joy Richter. Be sure and check out his podcast:

  • Hindsightless, https://open.spotify.com/show/3LMcaHlfCDZrjUGEYEZbYx
Aug 23, 202308:45
RPG a Day 2023: Day 13

RPG a Day 2023: Day 13

It's #RPGaDAY2023. Because 13 is an unlucky number, we talk about unlucky characters and the most memorable demises of men and dragons.

Aug 22, 202312:13
RPG a Day 2023: Days 11 & 12

RPG a Day 2023: Days 11 & 12

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode - the weirdest game I've ever played and old games that I still play.

Aug 21, 202307:12
RPG a Day 2023: Days 9 & 10

RPG a Day 2023: Days 9 & 10

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode - favorite dice (they're all my favorites) and favorite tie-in fiction.
Aug 20, 202309:19
RPG a Day 2023: Days 7 & 8

RPG a Day 2023: Days 7 & 8

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode, The "smartest" RPG I've played (shout to Joe Richter at Hindsightless) and my favorite characters.

Aug 19, 202309:14
RPG a Day 2023: Days 5 & 6

RPG a Day 2023: Days 5 & 6

It's #RPGaDAY 2023. In today's episode, the oldest game I've played and the favorite ones I never get to play.

Aug 18, 202306:38
RPG a Day 2023: Days 3 & 4

RPG a Day 2023: Days 3 & 4

It's #RPGaDAY2023. In this episode, the first and last (to date) games I bought this year, which are Pendragon and Carin/We Deal in Lead respectively.
Aug 17, 202306:48
RPG a Day 2023: Days 1 & 2

RPG a Day 2023: Days 1 & 2

I'm back for #RPGaDAY2023, although I am playing catch-up. In this episode, the first RPG I played this year (subject to debate) and memories of by first GM.

Aug 16, 202313:14
D&Disms: The Worldbuilder’s Lament

D&Disms: The Worldbuilder’s Lament

In this episode I discuss the mechanics vs. the lore of D&D, the latter of which has in many ways become self-referential. What’s essential and what can be tossed before it’s not D&D anymore?
Oct 21, 202225:10
OSR October: Rulings not Rules in 5e D&D?
Oct 12, 202217:08
Clerics, Gods, & Saints Revisited

Clerics, Gods, & Saints Revisited

In this episode, I discuss the origin and tropes of the D&D cleric and their match or mismatch with the typical polytheistic settings of D&D. For more on clerics, check out Delta's D&D Hotspot (http://deltasdnd.blogspot.com/p/primary-house-rules.html?m=1) and Web DM (https://youtu.be/4OASWdj8LYY).
Sep 27, 202222:25
Session Recap: Skeletons and Zombies and Cultists (Oh My!)

Session Recap: Skeletons and Zombies and Cultists (Oh My!)

We did it! We finished Keep on the Borderlands in my Mythic World of Urd Campaign. Here’s a recap of how it went. Plus calls from Joe (Hindsightless), Karl (GMologist Presents), Jason (Nerds RPG Variety Cast) and Kevin (The Redcaps Podcast).
Sep 16, 202243:37
The Moat House Dungeon

The Moat House Dungeon

Recap of my parallel Temple of Elemental Evil campaigns using OSE and 5e as the party confronts the evil that lurks beneath the ruined most house near Hommlet. Plus calls from a trio of distinguished podcasters regarding VTTs and theater of the mind play.
Sep 11, 202255:13
In the Mind’s Eye

In the Mind’s Eye

A return to basics with in-person play and theater of the mind. Also, wrapping up #RPGaDay2022 with calls from Jason Connerly and Anthony Boyd.
Sep 01, 202227:14
RPG a Day 2022, Week 5: The Home Stretch

RPG a Day 2022, Week 5: The Home Stretch

#RPGaDay2022 It’s the final week of questions. Plus more Hyperborea and a passing of the torch (or guiding bolt, actually).
Aug 28, 202220:58
Let’s Jam!

Let’s Jam!

Spelljammer is here. In this episode I’ll take a deep dive into the new 5e Spelljammer collection, make some comparisons to the original 2e material, and extol the wonder of miniature giant space hamsters. Go for the eyes Boo!
Aug 23, 202201:49:03
RPG a Day 2022, Week 4: Hyperborea

RPG a Day 2022, Week 4: Hyperborea

#RPGaDay2022 This week it’s all about an interesting setting and the characters I play there, leading into an impromptu recap of the latest adventures in Hyperborea.
Aug 21, 202230:31
RPG a Day 2022, Week 3: What Do We Want?

RPG a Day 2022, Week 3: What Do We Want?

#RPGaDay2022 This weeks prompts are all about personal preferences and practices.
Aug 16, 202222:19
RPG a Day 2022, Week 2: My Friend Brian

RPG a Day 2022, Week 2: My Friend Brian

#RPGaDay2022 continues. I answer the prompts from week 2 and take calls from Jason Connerly, Karl Rodriguez, and Anthony “Could Be Related” Boyd.
Aug 10, 202234:01
RPG a Day 2022, Week 1: D&D with Kids

RPG a Day 2022, Week 1: D&D with Kids

It’s #rpgaday2022. In this episode I answer the questions for week 1 and talk about D&D with adolescents. Also calls from Jason Connerly of the Nerds RPG Variety Cast ( https://anchor.fm/jason376 ) and the man behind RPG A Day himself, Anthony “No Relation” Boyd ( https://anchor.fm/runeslinger ). Also, check out Anthony’s blog: https://castingshadowsblog.com
Aug 01, 202238:08
Ancient Peoples in your RPG
Jul 20, 202239:47
Session Recap: Queen of the Kobolds

Session Recap: Queen of the Kobolds

In this episode, a recap form the latest OSE session in the Mythic World of Urd along with some underworld lore. I also have some calls from Jason Connerly and Karl Rodriguez, and a deeper dive in to retainer XP and salaries.
Jul 05, 202241:55
Character Backgrounds (for any system) & Carcass Crawler #2 for Old School Essentials.

Character Backgrounds (for any system) & Carcass Crawler #2 for Old School Essentials.

I’ve got a call from Joe Richter, some thoughts on character background complexity, and a deep dive into Carcass Crawler #2 for OSE.
Jul 01, 202248:03
A Wizard, an Alchemist, and a Cleric Meet along a Path…

A Wizard, an Alchemist, and a Cleric Meet along a Path…

It’s a short episode today. Updates from the Pathfinder 2e games I’ve been playing in.
Jun 21, 202225:05
The Moat House Massacre

The Moat House Massacre

Recaps of my ongoing parallel Temple of Elemental Evil campaigns, one with 5e D&D and the other using Old School Essentials.
Jun 09, 202228:17