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Down in a Heap

Down in a Heap

By Rob c

A big pot of old school RPG stew.
Cover art photo provided by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash: unsplash.com/@cadop
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Reaction rolls in RPGs

Down in a HeapJan 14, 2019

00:00
14:58
The Big Wet Postdiluvian RPG Review

The Big Wet Postdiluvian RPG Review

Review of the post apocalyptic, “postdiluvian” RPG, The Big Wet, by Sam Sorensen. Physical copies available at Exalted Funeral (along with pdf), or pdf only at Sam’s Itch page.
Mar 09, 202443:09
Throwing Spaghetti

Throwing Spaghetti

A couple ideas were popping in my head this morning. Sacrificing a level as meta currency, and magical healing at a cost. Just throwing spaghetti at the wall…
Mar 07, 202408:25
Cairn RPG 1e Review
Feb 26, 202450:43
You Blew it Up!

You Blew it Up!

The Anchor-pocolypse finally has arrived in June. Jason from Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast calls to ask my podcasting fate. And new caller Riley from Diogetic Advancement recommends the game, Swyvers, now live on Kickstarter.
Feb 20, 202414:06
New Year, New Conversations

New Year, New Conversations

I blabber a bit about how the fiction I want my games to emulate is much more grounded, small scope & slow burn than most. I’m weird…🤪 Plus some conversations with Spencer from Keep Off the Borderlands and Daniel from Bandit’s Keep.
Jan 23, 202433:54
Into the B/oX Holiday Call-in Bonanza

Into the B/oX Holiday Call-in Bonanza

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Calls from BJ of Arcane Alienist, Jason of Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast, Michael from Mirke the Meek, and Daniel from Bandit’s Keep about my Into the B/oX smash up. Five years of podcasting - thanks everyone! 👍
Dec 16, 202347:03
My Magic-user Attacks with their Axe! ??? How I’d rule on it.

My Magic-user Attacks with their Axe! ??? How I’d rule on it.

Ideas for PCs restricted in weapon choice by class using weapons outside those lists in classic D&D. Inspired by conversations on recent episodes of Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast. Plus, last day chance to back Mythic Bastionland KS: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bastionland/mythic-bastionland-rpg-before-into-the-odd
Dec 06, 202316:37
Into the B/oX Combat Run-through 1

Into the B/oX Combat Run-through 1

I run through a small low-level skirmish between a party and group of Hobgoblins to see how a mash-up of B/X and Into the Odd might be different from straight B/X. Plus calls from Jason and Aaronnpc. Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃
Nov 20, 202347:05
Different Approaches to Rock’em Sock’em Robots

Different Approaches to Rock’em Sock’em Robots

Jason from Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast calls in to describe how three old games dealt with the Rock’em Sock’em Robots effect. Plus some talk about my bitchin’ Camaro and the great ‘91 Halloween Blizzard.
Nov 13, 202332:07
Gary’s Appendix Issue 3 and OSR October wrap.

Gary’s Appendix Issue 3 and OSR October wrap.

I take a look at the Halloween themed Issue 3 of Gary’s Appendix by Jeff Jones of the RPG Ramblings podcast and do a little wrap up of OSR October 2023. Happy Halloween!🎃
Oct 31, 202319:50
Into the B/oX: a Peanut Butter Cup Smash-up?

Into the B/oX: a Peanut Butter Cup Smash-up?

I noodle about a mash-up of B/X with combat inspired by Chris McDowall’s game Into the Odd. Will two great flavors create a new taste sensation ala Reese’s, or would it be like topping your Count Chocula with sauerkraut?
Oct 28, 202347:11
OSR October: A Guide to Thieves’ Guilds by Todd Leback

OSR October: A Guide to Thieves’ Guilds by Todd Leback

I take a look at the supplement, A Guide to Thieves’ Guilds by Todd Leback of Third Kingdom Games. It’s part of his Filling in the Blanks Populated Hexcrawl Series. Available at Drivethru RPG. Also a call from Jason from Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast.
Oct 21, 202330:29
Gary’s Appendix Issue 2 for OSR October

Gary’s Appendix Issue 2 for OSR October

A cold has dropped my voice an octave, so please forgive my froggy delivery. Today I look through Gary’s Appendix Issue 2 from Jeff Jones at RPG Ramblings Publishing. Check it out at DrivethruRPG.
Oct 17, 202318:37
Call-in OSR October

Call-in OSR October

Calls and conversation from John Large of Red Dice Diaries, Rich Fraser of Cockatrice Nuggets, and Jason Connerly from Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast. Thanks guys! Wanna get in the fun? Email me a voice file to bigbalboni at gmail dot com.
Oct 10, 202330:06
OSR October: Tuesday Tidbits - Jazz Up the Fighter

OSR October: Tuesday Tidbits - Jazz Up the Fighter

Spicing up the vanilla fighter is a common house rule in OSR games. Here’s one method (Fighting Tricks) from Dice Roll Zine #3 by Steve Cook of Hog Town Games.
Oct 03, 202315:21
OSR October 2023: Episode 1

OSR October 2023: Episode 1

It’s been a while, but already that time of year again: OSR October! I blabber about how it came about, what’s happening, what I have planned, and has gamer wanderlust always existed? Plus I drink a blue cheese flavored soda...
Oct 02, 202331:05
Placement of Treasure in B/X plus new Gary’s Appendix KS

Placement of Treasure in B/X plus new Gary’s Appendix KS

There’s a new KS for Gary’s Appendix issue 3 from Jeffery Jones. And calls from Evil Jeff, Joe, Pink Phantom, Taylor, Jason, and Darkfluid prompt me to a deep dive into procedural treasure placement in B/X (among other topics). It’s a bonanza!
Aug 04, 202301:14:31
Gary’s Appendix: Issue 1 plus calls

Gary’s Appendix: Issue 1 plus calls

I take a look at the zine, Gary’s Appendix by RPG Ramblings Publishing available in pdf/print direct at rpgramblings.com or pdf at DrivethruRPG.com plus calls from Jason & Daniel about bugs, traps, treasure, and granularity. A new caller (Joe from Dekahedron podcast) takes issue with my use of “lazy design”. What do I mean by that, and is combat part of a game’s “story”? Leave a voice message at bigbalboni at gmail. Thanks!
Jul 15, 202301:02:33
I Hate Bugs!

I Hate Bugs!

Originally meant to be a call-in show, with updates on playing FTF for the 1st time since 2020 morphs into a screed against giant bugs. But through venting, perhaps wisdom, and a place for the bugs is found? Still have the calls too! from Rob (Menion) of Confessions of a Wee Timrous Bushi; Jason from Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast, and The Pink Phantom from Phantom Thoughts.
Jun 23, 202358:51
Knave 2e Kickstarter Talk plus Thieves, Advantage/Dis and the movie, The Last Valley

Knave 2e Kickstarter Talk plus Thieves, Advantage/Dis and the movie, The Last Valley

Calls from Jason of Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast prompts discussion about Knave 2e, mass battle systems, Advantage/Disadvantage, Thieves, and a strong recommendation for the movie, The Last Valley. Released in 1971, Directed by James Clavell, starring Michael Caine and Omar Sharif. Set during the 30 Years War. A breathe of fresh air if (like me) you’re tired of “EPIC “ CGI nonsense.
May 31, 202329:46
What’s Up? Knave 2e Kickstarter, S&W KS, Shadowdark KS thoughts.

What’s Up? Knave 2e Kickstarter, S&W KS, Shadowdark KS thoughts.

Hey. It’s been a while. Talk about what I’ve been up to and thoughts about the Knave 2e Kickstarter (9 days left to go if you want to back it) as well as about the Shadowdark & S&W KS...and why I haven’t seen the D&D movie.
May 23, 202348:45
Lore & Rumors on Planet Eris

Lore & Rumors on Planet Eris

I go over my method for providing starting PCs with campaign Lore & Rumors. Plus calls from Jason, Joe, and Daniel. “Whumming” by Goblin’s Henchman and another song from Chaos Warband.
Mar 03, 202337:57
“Acquisitions” From Backstory and a Transmission from Planet Eris

“Acquisitions” From Backstory and a Transmission from Planet Eris

My Planet Eris game finally started and I share a moment that came up while finishing PC creation. What would you have done? Plus calls from James Knight, Jason, Daniel and a Rogue transmission from Planet Eris.
Feb 28, 202334:01
OSE Advanced Fantasy Deep Dive: 4

OSE Advanced Fantasy Deep Dive: 4

A look at the rest of the optional rules in the Character book from OSE Advanced Fantasy by Gavin Norman of Necrotic Gnome: separate race & class, multi-class, learning spells, combat, etc. Plus calls from Jason and Daniel.
Jan 28, 202301:04:07
OSE Advanced Fantasy Deep Dive 3

OSE Advanced Fantasy Deep Dive 3

Wrapping up the remainder of PC classes outlined in Necrotic Gnome’s OSE Advanced Fantasy by Gavin Norman: Half-elf, Half-Orc, Illusionist, Knight, Paladin, Ranger, and Svirfneblin. Plus a call from Jason. Enjoy!
Jan 18, 202355:57
OSE Advanced Fantasy Deep Dive 2

OSE Advanced Fantasy Deep Dive 2

Calls from Jason & Joe and a close looks at Bards, Drow, Druids, Duergar, and Gnomes in OSE Advanced Fantasy by Gavin Norman of Necrotic Gnome.
Jan 15, 202357:20
OSE Advanced Fantasy Deep Dive 1

OSE Advanced Fantasy Deep Dive 1

The first Deep Dive episode of the Old School Essentials Advanced Fantasy Box set by Gavin Norman of Necrotic Gnome covers an overview of the line, a look at the box set, and the elements of the Acrobat, Assassin, and Barbarian PC classes.
Jan 10, 202351:56
Call-in Bonanza Ramble

Call-in Bonanza Ramble

What was planned as the 1st episode of the OSE Advanced Deep Dive morphs into a straight call-in bonanza ramble featuring Jason, Daniel, Pink Phantom, and Spencer. Dungeon23, OGL, Spirit of the Rules, AD&D Nostalgia, Separate attribute adjustments for fighters, Pets, and gaming gifts. Settle in. OSE Advanced Deep Dive will commence next episode. 👍
Jan 08, 202345:51
Roll For Random Thoughts...December?

Roll For Random Thoughts...December?

Calls from Keith and Daniel about The School of Hard Knocks; Gaming goodies from Christmas; Kickstarter goodness Hyperborea 3E and OSE Advanced, and a look ahead at podcasting and gaming in 2023. Happy New Year!
Dec 31, 202232:02
The School of Hard Knocks?

The School of Hard Knocks?

I offer up a potential new house rule for those who enroll at The School of Hard Knocks. Crazy, really crazy, or crazy good? YOU decide. Plus calls about Planet Eris & OSR October. 👍
Nov 08, 202223:40
OSR October Finale: Planet Eris by Jimm Johnson

OSR October Finale: Planet Eris by Jimm Johnson

Spotlight on a great World Setting, Planet Eris, by Jimm Johnson of the Scribes of Sparn. While intended for OD&D, this could easily be used for any Fantasy RPG. Get the PDF or Print + PDF at DrivethruRPG.com. World map can be viewed at: cubeofquazar.blogspot.com and http://knights-n-knaves.com/thescribesofsparn/planet-eris-map.jpg
Oct 31, 202235:58
OSR October: Call-in Bonanza

OSR October: Call-in Bonanza

Calls from the last week of OSR October featuring Jason, Aaron the NPC, Goblin’s Henchman, and Joe.
Oct 30, 202237:15
OSR October: Thursday Theories (Friday Edition 🤣)

OSR October: Thursday Theories (Friday Edition 🤣)

The last Thursday Theory in October ends with the closing line of my theme song: “Try not to go, Down in a Heap.” Character death is part of the deal in old adventure games. Long-term survival is a badge of honor (and a sign of good luck 😉).
Oct 28, 202221:30
OSR October: Wednesday Wanderings - Whisper & Venom

OSR October: Wednesday Wanderings - Whisper & Venom

This Wednesday Wandering leads to the mini setting and adventure book, Whisper & Venom by Zach Glazar. Originally published by his company, Lesser Gnome, it was recently on KS with a new edition through Necromancer Games in both an OSE and 5e version.
Oct 27, 202213:32
OSR October: Tuesday Tidbits - Midderzine Tables
Oct 26, 202214:02
OSR October: Monster Monday - Name That Monster!

OSR October: Monster Monday - Name That Monster!

I take a trip through the way-back machine to the earliest time I can recall trying to stat out a unique monster. Can you name it? You probably won’t be surprised where I stole it from...😉
Oct 24, 202221:35
OSR October: Saturday Call-in Bonanza on Sunday 🤦‍♂️

OSR October: Saturday Call-in Bonanza on Sunday 🤦‍♂️

Lots of calls about lots of topics fielded by a grumpy host who had just returned to work after an all-too-brief vacation. Sound fun? Woo hoo! Hey Ho, let’s GO!
Oct 24, 202201:02:14
OSR October: Thursday Theories - Bring Your Pole, Oil, & Rope

OSR October: Thursday Theories - Bring Your Pole, Oil, & Rope

Thursday Theories addresses the importance of equipment, exploration, and resource management in OSR games. Plus, was there a “Proto-OSR” that started way back in the early 1980’s?
Oct 20, 202222:33
OSR October: Wednesday Wanderings among the clouds of Highfell by Greg Gillespie

OSR October: Wednesday Wanderings among the clouds of Highfell by Greg Gillespie

My Wednesday Wandering shoots us towards the moon in this unique mega dungeon adventure setting: Highfell, The Drifting Dungeon by Greg Gillespie. Available at DrivethruRPG. Check out all four of Greg’s mega dungeons. They’re fantastic! 👍
Oct 19, 202220:51
OSR October: Tidbit Tuesday a Lifepath Random Generator

OSR October: Tidbit Tuesday a Lifepath Random Generator

For Tidbit Tuesday I dive into Dice Roll Zine #3 from Steve C of Hog Town Games. I really like the quick random tables here to generate a beginning character’s background. Check out all three issues of Dice Roll Zine. They’re great!
Oct 19, 202211:03
OSR October Mashup: Monster Friend Monday!

OSR October Mashup: Monster Friend Monday!

The recording I did with my old friend I thought lost was found! And we’re discussing monsters; reskinning them, and thoughts about player knowledge about monsters powers & vulnerabilities. It’s a Monster Monday/ Friend Friday mashup!
Oct 17, 202224:23
OSR October: Supplement Sunday going Back to BasiX

OSR October: Supplement Sunday going Back to BasiX

Supplement Sunday is looking at the compilation of the 1st ten issues of the Back to BasiX Zine by Thom Wilson of ThrowiGames. It’s available on DrivethruRPG for $15 (pdf) or $25 (Hardcover + PDF). Great B/X material!
Oct 16, 202217:11
OSR October: Saturday Call-in Bonanza

OSR October: Saturday Call-in Bonanza

An Anchor conversation with Rich, Jason, Kevin, and The Pink Phantom about the d30, OSR Generations, early Domain Play, Zombies & The Night Stalker, playstyle preferences and other assorted bric a brac. Contact me at bigbalboni at gmail or via Discord where I’m RC/DowninaHeap. Thanks!
Oct 15, 202238:28
OSR October: Thursday Theories - Don’t be a Dope

OSR October: Thursday Theories - Don’t be a Dope

I delve further into my Theme Song outlining how I view “Old School Style” play. Today, don’t be a Dope. Don’t pull punches based on PC attributes. War not sport. PC roles in party vs. PC persona. Lore, not Intelligence. But that’s, like, just my opinion Man. 😉
Oct 13, 202218:32
OSR October: Wednesday Wanderings into The Fungus Forest!

OSR October: Wednesday Wanderings into The Fungus Forest!

This quick adventure review looks at The Fungus Forest by Nash Press from 2016. Available as a PWYW PDF at DrivethruRPG. It’s a large cavern system filled with unusual creatures and (of course!) weird fungi of every imaginable type. Potentially months of exciting play for $3 (recommended price)? What are you waiting for?!?
Oct 12, 202213:19
OSR October: Tidbit Tuesday - I Can’t Hardly Wait

OSR October: Tidbit Tuesday - I Can’t Hardly Wait

Blurring the lines between Tidbits and Theories, I talk about the Stages of an Adventuring Party, and how I Can’t Wait for “Name” level to begin the Domain building phase of the game. Plus a Replacement’s song makes anything better...😃
Oct 11, 202218:42
OSR October: Monster Monday’s 2

OSR October: Monster Monday’s 2

It’s Monster Monday #2 and getting into the spooky October feel, I’m choosing a different spin on a classic Undead monster from Barrowmaze Complete by Greg Gillespie. Brains good....
Oct 10, 202206:37
OSR October: Supplement Sunday - Do you know your A, B, C’s?
Oct 09, 202217:06
OSR October: Saturday Call-in Bonanza

OSR October: Saturday Call-in Bonanza

It’s one week into OSR October, and I have a bunch of calls! Please enjoy this “podcast conversation” with Spencer, Jason, Daniel, Kevin, and Goblin’s Henchman!
Oct 08, 202252:17
OSR October: Friend Friday with Jason of Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast

OSR October: Friend Friday with Jason of Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast

My fellow Universal Monster Maniac and Podcasting Pal, Jason of Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast joins me. Main topics include notable OSR rules sets and movies that to us, capture an OSR feel.
Oct 07, 202201:00:31