Ghostfire Gaming

The Eldritch Lorecast

About the show

Ben Byrne, Dael Kingsmill, Shawn Merwin, and Todd Kenreck bring you the latest tabletop hobby news, discussions on roleplaying game design, ideas for players and GMs, and share their passion for tabletop roleplaying games and the community! For More info be sure to check out ghostfiregaming.com.

Newest episodes

#267. Is This D&D Beyond’s Best Drop Yet? | Eldritch Lorecast

Nov 11, 2026 46 min

D&D Beyond's November Drop brings back the Bariaur for the first time since 3.5e, along with Valkyries, Upper Planes feats and... a pitchfork. Paizo adds Dracula, Frankenstein and The Wicker Man to 13 Omens, plus we get into romance in TTRPGs, cozy "beach episode" sessions, how to end a campaign, and terrible dump stats.Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.comJess: @jberrtDael: @dailydaelTodd: @ToddKenreckShawn: @shawnmerwinEditor: @jberrtTopics:00:00 - Intro00:45 - Romance in TTRPG's07:44 - D&D Beyond Drops: Champions of Ysgard14:09 - 13 Omens adding Vintage Horror adventures20:15 - "Beach Episodes" In D&D?27:33 - Ending a Campaign36:06 - Terrible Dump Stats?

#266. D&D Beyond's WORST Feature Fixed?

Nov 4, 2026 54 min

D&D Beyond's search function finally works! Plus physical copies of D&D: World of Warcraft are running late in North America, Dan Ayoub steps up as Wizards of the Coast president and a court clears the way for Paizo and Green Ronin to get their books back from the Diamond bankruptcy. Then, how to pull off a multi-table Epic at a con. Back The Seeker's Guide to Dreaded Demigods on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/the-seekers-guide-to-dreaded-demigods Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:37 - D&D Beyond Search Function Fixed!! 09:49 - D&D WoW Book Delays 12:08 - Dan Ayoub Promoted to WotC President 16:19 - WOTC Unionisation Effort 20:11 - Court Clears Paizo & Green Ronin Inventory 25:48 - Running an Epic at a Con? 49:36 - How Many Games do you GM/Play In?

#265. Chaosium just NUKED their TTRPG Creator Content!

Oct 28, 2026 59 min

Chaosium just pulled more than 40 community titles over AI-generated content, so what does that mean for TTRPG creators? We also share our best tricks for prepping D&D sessions in less time, then get into Misplaced Monsters Vol. 2, Games Workshop scrapping its Necromunda RPG, Atlas Games halting shipping to the EU, and D&D themed....toilet paper? The Seeker's Guide to Dreaded Demigods is LIVE on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/the-seekers-guide-to-dreaded-demigodsEmail your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.comBen: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydaelTodd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwinEditor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:42 - Low Prep D&D 12:04 - Chaosium Removes AI Creator Content 27:10 - Misplaced Monsters Vol.2 29:25 - Seekers Guide to Dreaded Demigods 31:06 - GW Scraps Necromunda RPG Plans 36:08 - Atlas Games No Longer Shipping to the EU 38:47 - D&D Toilet Paper? 44:57 - D&D Wallpaper 46:15 - Long Voyage Encounters

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All episodes

The newest 50 of 267 episodes

#267. Is This D&D Beyond’s Best Drop Yet? | Eldritch Lorecast

Nov 11, 2026 46 min

#266. D&D Beyond's WORST Feature Fixed?

Nov 4, 2026 54 min

#265. Chaosium just NUKED their TTRPG Creator Content!

Oct 28, 2026 59 min

#264. D&D’s Most Charming Guide Is Now Its DEADLIEST Villain

Oct 21, 2026 1 hr 0 min

@Runesmith joins us to talk through the final book in the Seeker's series! We also get into how to actually use a campaign setting instead of letting it gather dust, building fights around deception, and whether having unique NPC minis and tokens is worth the hassle. The Seeker's Guide to Dreaded Demigods is LIVE on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/the-seekers-guide-to-dreaded-demigodsEmail your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.comBen: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydaelTodd: @ToddKenreck Editor: @jberrt Topics:00:00 - Intro00:35 - The Seeker’s Guide to Dreaded Demigods17:31 - WOTC Response to Unionisation19:42 - Using Campaign Settings28:36 - Increasing Player Enthusiasm35:40 - Deception Themed Fights48:58 - Unique NPC Minis/Tokens

#263. Things Every D&D Table Should Be Stealing From Other Games | Eldritch Lorecast

Oct 14, 2026 58 min

Some of the best rules at a D&D table don't come from D&D at all. This week we dig into other games like Daggerheart and Shadowdark to find what's worth smuggling into your 5.5e game. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Matt: @heyitsMattyP Adam: @RetroArchetype Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:42 - TTRPG's that make D&D better! 25:30 - Kobold Press x Shadowdark 28:18 - White Wolf & Renegade Games part ways 34:52 - D&D workers union 37:38 - D&D Star Wars 39:51 - Hacks for learning new games

#262. The Sorrow Knight is D&D's Most Emo Subclass Yet | Eldritch Lorecast

Oct 7, 2026 57 min

Jay Jani from D&D Beyond joins us to talk digital tools at the table, what goes into a monthly Drop, and the Sorrow Knight! The first full subclass to arrive through the program. We also get into Ravenloft: Project Lamordia, what Ghostfire is bringing to PAX Australia, and how to make a horror adventure scare and delight your players. Want to join Ghostfire Gaming at PAX Australia? See the Game Schedule here and book now: https://events.humanitix.com/gfg-pax-aus?ml_recipient=200315957349975649&ml_link=200315818930603626 Find out more information about our Panel at PAX Australia here: https://conventions.leapevent.tech/schedules/view/943573 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.comShawn: @shawnmerwinDael: @dailydaelTodd: @ToddKenreckJay: @GPyromaniaEditor: @jberrtTopics:00:00 - Intro00:39 - Using Digital Tools in Your D&D Games07:58 - D&D Drops: October Release22:51 - Ravenloft: Project Lamordia25:11 - Ghostfire at PAX Australia26:42 - Restarting a Campaign34:10 - Running Horror Adventures49:08 - Importing 3rd Party Content on D&D Beyond

#261. Is D&D Finally Nerfing Casters?

Sep 30, 2026 51 min

The D&D: World of Warcraft previews keep rolling in, and the new monster abilities have everyone asking whether casters are finally getting reined in. We also cover Dragonlance joining the D&D Icons line, D&D novels getting reprinted in the UK, and whether bolting rules from other games together is a 5th Edition habit or something D&D faithfuls have always done.Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.comShawn: @shawnmerwinDael: @dailydaelTodd: @ToddKenreckAdam: @retroarchetypeEditor: @jberrtTopics:00:00 - Intro07:37 - D&D World of Warcraft: Updates24:34 - Wizards of the Coast Staff Changes28:59 - D&D Icons: Dragonlance33:08 - D&D Novel Reprints in the UK38:37 - Is combining multiple systems unique to 5th Edition D&D?44:45 - Best DMing moments?

#260. Should D&D Fans Be Worried About Universes Beyond?

Sep 23, 2026 55 min

Preorders are open for D&D: World of Warcraft, the first book in the new Universes Beyond line. But, what does a crossover this big mean for the future of D&D? We also dig into the Seeker's Guide to Dreaded Demigods,hunt for systems that make non-combat gameplay sing, and work out why hexcrawls keep pulling us back in. Follow The Seeker's Guide to Dreaded Demigods on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/the-seekers-guide-to-dreaded-demigods Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Shawn: @shawnmerwin Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Logan: @Runesmith Editor: @jberrt Topics: Intro - 00:00 05:22 - D&D: World of Warcraft Preorders 11:29 - Impact of Universes Beyond on D&D? 20:04 - The Seeker’s Guide to Dreaded Demigods 29:49 - Martial vs Caster Support 37:15 - Systems for Non Combat Gameplay? 45:44 - Hexcrawls

#259. D&D Has Gone Off the Deep End With Playable Kuo-toa...

Sep 16, 2026 50 min

Unearthed Arcana returns to the Underdark for round two, with new Cleric and Sorcerer subclasses, an updated Circle of Spores Druid, and FIVE playable species. Meanwhile, we tackle character death in D&D, figure out how to run a HUGE dungeon without losing your mind, and ponder whether Frankensteining game systems together makes a masterpiece or a monster? Back Aberration NOW it's the LAST 24 HOURS : https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB2_2026_8_935 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Jess: @jbertart Dael: @dailydael Jordy: @Arlentric Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro/ DnD Character Deaths 07:22 - Starlight Event Recap 14:22 - Unearthed Arcana: Underdark Pt.2 18:16 - CONTENT WARNING: ARACHNOPHOBIA!! 23:31 - Aberration: Oblivion’s Embrace - FINAL 24 HOURS! 25:30 - Home TTRPG Games 30:37 - Running Large Dungeons 38:51 - Frankensteining Systems?

#258. Wake Up Babe, a New D&D TV Show Announced!

Sep 9, 2026 1 hr 1 min

Netflix announces a Ravenloft TV series, but who should play D&D's most notorious villain, Strahd von Zarovich? We fondly remember the D&D movie, recap every announced (and cancelled) D&D TV show, and ponder whether 5.5e should have bounded Hit Points? Back Aberration NOW: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB2_2026_8_935 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:17 - Ravenloft coming to Netflix 13:57 - Every announced D&D TV show 17:13 - Remembering Honor Among Thieves 23:29 - Castle Ravenloft board game 2e 25:15 - Paizo still in trouble? 29:30 - Encouraging player feedback 44:30 - Bounded hit points?

#257. Reacting to the Warlock Trailer and D&D's Digital Future!

Sep 2, 2026 52 min

Gameplay footage from Warlock gets a HUGE reaction, and D&D drops ANOTHER surprise video game trailer! Meanwhile, we ponder whether a 5.5e adventure could ever feel like The Odyssey? Back Aberration NOW: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB2_2026_8_935 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: ⁨@ToddKenreck⁩ Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:19 - Warlock video game 14:35 - Long Rest Tavern game 19:11 - Exodus (& octobot!) 25:13 - Aberration 26:40 - The Odyssey as a D&D adventure? 41:57 - High Level Adventures

#256. D&D Now Lets You Play as a Mind Flayer... (which SHOULD be a Bad Thing, Right?)

Aug 26, 2026 58 min

The latest D&D Unearthed Arcana lets your 5.5e character "transform" into a Mind Flayer! But shouldn't turning into a monster be a bad thing? Back Aberration NOW: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB2_2026_8_935 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:28 - UA: Mind Flayer Transformation 26:18 - Aberration board game 30:53 - UA: Underdark subclasses 54:33 - Ravenloft D20 Popcorn Bucket

#255. Does EVERY TTRPG Have to be a Video Game, Now?

Aug 19, 2026 1 hr 1 min

Digital platforms like D&D Beyond continue to infiltrate the TTRPG industry with the release of Free League Unbound! Could Paizo recover from their money troubles? And what's the secret to ensuring your D&D Players are always having fun? Learn how to use their curiosity against them! Noclip⁩ documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAv0LYLQi5c&tEmail your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:12 - Best TTRPG video games 08:57 - Free League Unbound 17:51 - Paizo's got money troubles 23:10 - Rowan, Rook & Decard unionize 24:08 - D&D Beyond disgusting Drops 26:16 - Using curiosity to craft campaigns 39:14 - Noticing interactive objects 48:59 - Sparking player curiosity

#254. Is D&D is About to Drown...?

Aug 12, 2026 54 min

An UNPRECEDENTED amount of D&D news fell out of Gen Con, including Icons, Dark Sun, and even Universes Beyond setting up a massive number of new D&D products! Follow Aberration here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB2_2026_8_935 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Gen Con Recap 08:57 - Gen Con breaks records! 10:11 - D&D keynote recap 13:37 - World of Warcraft 16:37 - Is D&D flooding the market? 28:20 - D&D Beyond updates 32:01 - Aberration 34:18 - Ghostfire Gaming x Ravenloft 37:23 - Daggerheart & V:TM V6 42:35 - ANOTHER new OGL

#253. How D&D SLAYED Gen Con to Remain the #1 TTRPG

Aug 5, 2026 41 min

SO MUCH D&D news exploded at Gen Con, including Icons, Dark Sun, Greyhawk, and the Universes Beyond projects: World of Warcraft and Star Wars... we barely had time to cover it all while sheltering from a tornado! GeeknSon gaming tables: https://geeknson.com/pages/game-room-gaming-table Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Joey: @JamesJHaeck Justice: @justiceraminarman Foster: @TheatreOfTheUnaligned Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Gen Con 2026 13:50 - D&D Icons 22:14 - Uh oh, A Tornado 22:46 - GeeknSon 24:01 - Dark Sun 28:08 - Star Wars 30:41 - World of Warcraft

#252. The Deadliest Challenge Your D&D Party can Face!

Jul 29, 2026 57 min

What's more dangerous in D&D than a monster? The party! So give your players a taste of their own medicine with the "Anti-Party" method. Also, should roleplaying be MANDATORY for a Warlock player? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:42 - The "Anti-Party" 16:41 - Gen Con events 19:28 - Warlock players MUST roleplay 37:14 - Is 5.5e crafting broken? 46:58 - Is a monster book a setting guide?

#251. Is D&D Abandoning the Adventurer's League?

Jul 22, 2026 52 min

Are D&D Encounters replacing the Adventurer's League? Meanwhile, Paizo revokes its Pathfinder and Starfinder license from Archives of Nethys and we decide the best social encounter rules. Book your seat for the Starlight D&D Epic: https://events.humanitix.com/starlight-dnd Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Using a DM Screen? 07:45 - D&D Encounters S2 16:53 - Finding a TTRPG group 21:19 - Starlight D&D Epic 23:35 - Ghostfire at Gen Con 25:09 - Paizo revoke license 41:06 - Best social mechanics

#250. How Gen Con will Reshape D&D's Future!

Jul 15, 2026 58 min

WotC announces a STAGGERING number of D&D events for Gen Con, which could change the future of 5.5e forever! Daggerheart releases new playtests for the Summoner and Blood Hunter, while Chaosium Vote Grim Hollow for Best Setting at the ENNIES: https://vote.ennie-awards.com/vote/2026/ Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Hiding Ability Check DC's 14:16 - The D&D TOWER!! 29:35 - Ennie Awards voting 30:47 - D&D Season of Magic 39:15 - Daggerheart playtests 45:50 - Chaosium vs AI 49:19 - Invasion of the Doppelgängers?

#249. DON'T Let Party Conflict Ruin Your D&D Campaign!

Jul 8, 2026 58 min

Is it ever safe to let your D&D party argue among themselves? Should just ANY character be allowed to use Thieves Tools to pick a lock? What makes a great TTRPG open game license? We answer the tough questions on this week's episode! Learn about Aberration: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHAB_2026_7_249 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Project Hail Mary [SPOILERS!] 06.23 - Letting Sorcerers pick locks? 18:41 - Ennie Awards nominations 22:45 - A Grim Hollow board game! 25:09 - D&D Fan Expo postponed 27:58 - Zweihänder game license 31:16 - Creating party conflict 48:51 - Stop being bored in combat!

#248. How to LEVEL UP Your Game Master Skills for D&D!

Jul 1, 2026 1 hr 1 min

We're sharing HORROR stories from our early days GM'ing for D&D or other TTRPG's, giving tips on how to improve as a game master, and digging deeper into Vampire: The Masquerade on D&D Beyond. Pre-order Vampire: The Masquerade - Bound by Blood: https://marketplace.dndbeyond.com/category/4IQF87I?pid=DB4IQF87I Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - GM Horror Stories! 08:27 - Lorecast SURPRISE interview? 10:53 - Arcana Unleashed subclasses 14:45 - Free RPG Day 17:51 - Diana Jones Award nominees 20:38 - First WotC workers union 21:34 - V:tM Bound by Blood 29:21 - Easy GM mistakes? 38:56 - Level up your GM'ing 50:51 - Player consequences

#247. How Vampire: the Masquerade Landed on D&D Beyond!

Jun 24, 2026 1 hr 3 min

HUGE News this week with Vampire: the Masquerade landing on D&D Beyond while WotC reveals more of how Unearthed Arcana 5.5e playtesting works. Jennifer Kretchmer joins us to talk TTRPG accessibility, educating the next generation of game designers, and what playing a Paladin truly means! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: ‪ ⁨@ToddKenreck⁩ Jen: @dreamwisp Editor: ‪ @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 18:29 - VtM: Bound by Blood 26:04 - UA and WotC transparency 47:49 - D&D rules reference cards 49:49 - Why the Paladin hate?

#246. Would You Play a Transformer in D&D 5.5e?!

Jun 17, 2026 53 min

Joined this week by special guest Logan, we question whether the FATE TTRPG is dying, chonky dragons in chonkier dice, Hasbro IP's coming to D&D 5.5e and how to survive your first Convention in style! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Shawn: @shawnmerwin Dael: @dailydael Todd: ‪@ToddKenreck‬ Logan: @Runesmith Editor: ‪ @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:03 - The End of Fate? 10:04 - Themberchaud D20 Chonk 14:55 - Toy franchises in 5.5e? 20:35 - Legends of Greyhawk on D&D Beyond 25:25 - Advice for Your First Convention 32:46 - Large Scale Battles in D&D 42:59 - 3rd Party Spells

#245. WotC Backtracks on D&D Beyond Drops!

Jun 10, 2026 52 min

Is WotC listening to the community with the changes to D&D Beyond Drops? We meet the members of the D&D Advisory Group, Hasbro starts up an AI company, and Paizo are forced to make some difficult choices. Grim Hollow now Available: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHRF_2026_6_244 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - What is Homebrew? 09:08 - D&D Beyond Drops update 13:31 - D&D Advisory Group 19:14 - New D&D book and Baldur’s Gate 2? 27:58 - Hasbro AI studio 32:50 - Paizo layoffs 35:55 - Neon Odyssey breaks records 45:24 - John Blanche 46:42 - Digital dice themes

#244. D&D Goes Fully Grimdark with Latest Books!

Jun 3, 2026 57 min

Grim Hollow 5.5e FINALLY brings horror and grimdark adventures to D&D! Meanwhile D&D Beyond makes good on another promise, and we gear up to celebrate the International Day of Play! Grim Hollow now Available: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHRF_2026_6_244 Start your Adventures in Etharis here:https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHRF_2026_6_243 Learn more about the UNICEF Day of Play:https://www.unicef.org/parenting/day-of-play Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:54 - Grim Hollow 5.5e is HERE! 13:56 - Gen Con D&D events 18:50 - International Day of Play 22:22 - D&D Beyond Journals 27:07 - Political intrigue adventures 49:01 - 3rd party D&D starter sets

#243. A New Horror TTRPG Emerges from D&D's Biggest Rival

May 27, 2026 45 min

A D&D game is cancelled and details about a new horror TTRPG from the makers of Pathfinder and Starfinder! Meanwhile, are you a Gamist, Narrativist, or Simulationist gamer? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:46 - Paizo’s horror TTRPG 23:09 - D&D game cancelled 28:20 - GNS game theory 35:43 - Weaving Character Backstories

#242. Is Playing D&D a "Selfish" Power Fantasy?

May 20, 2026 58 min

D&D 5e is accused of being 'artistically hollow' by one of tabletop gaming's biggest influencers, alongside Pathfinder, Draw Steel, and Daggerheart. So we explore if that's true? Quinns Quest review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wH5-uQj4uOA Saga of the Seasons 5e Adventure: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHVC_2026_5_242 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:04 - Gen Con events 07:39 - Quinns vs D&D 26:15 - Are Optimizers truly the villains? 40:20 - Stories vs Railroads

#241. Have "Drops" Just Changed D&D FOREVER?

May 13, 2026 1 hr 3 min

Outrage explodes at WotC over D&D Beyond Drops, which give new 5.5e content to subscribers only! But is the latest controversy real or overblown? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: ⁨@ToddKenreck⁩ Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ⁨@jberrt⁩ Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:32 - D&D Beyond Drops 30:49 - Chris Cocks Interview 38:37 - Neon Odyssey 41:40 - High Level Campaigns 48:54 - Optimizer Discourse

#240. How to Transform D&D Adventure Modules to Other Settings!

May 6, 2026 57 min

This week we minimize DM prep by converting D&D adventure modules to other settings like Grim Hollow, and which one-shots make for the perfect side quests and starter adventures to kick off your TTRPG campaign! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:36 - Best side quest one-shots 09:32 - D&D Beyond Starter Packs 15:33 - Ted D&D episode 21:10 - WotC's AI rules lawyer 31:26 - WotC workers union 35:10- Supporting New DM’s 40:01 - Transforming adventure modules 49:58 - "Pilot Episode" D&D sessions.

#239. Are You Still Getting These D&D 5.5e Rules Wrong?

Apr 29, 2026 59 min

This week we revisit the hidden differences between D&D 5e and 5.5e, review the Dungeon Masters live play "Play Along Pack", and Dael actually reads an Unearthed Arcana including the Barbarian Path of Lament, Monk Warrior of Venom, and Warlock Primordial Patron. LAST WEEK to back Lairs of Etharis: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHLA_2026_4_236 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - D&D 5.5e rules Quiz 14:39 - Do you like a one-shot? 23:10 - D&D live play "Play Along Pack" 38:53 - Unearthed Arcana: Villains 2 49:03 - Louis Zocchi passing 50:24 - D&D 6e on the horizon?

#238. Is the OFFICIAL D&D Liveplay About to End Critical Role?

Apr 22, 2026 1 hr 0 min

WotC is launching an 'official' D&D liveplay campaign, with talent from Dimension 20 and Baldur's Gate 3. But can it hope to topple Critical Role? Meanwhile, have TTRPG's become a luxury purchase? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 06:00 - Ravenloft book reveals 21:50 - Daggerheart & luxury TTRPG goods 25:35 - Dungeon Crawler Carl sets records! 29:10 - The "Official" D&D live play 38:42 - Players missing sessions 46:41 - Complex villains & worlds

#237. Is D&D 5.5e Abandoning Full Adventure Modules?

Apr 15, 2026 1 hr 3 min

Not a single full adventure module has released for D&D 5.5e! Have Wizards of the Coast abandoned modules in favor of only setting guides? Or does a new role at WotC suggest 3rd party creators will make the adventures, now? Delve into the Lairs of Etharis: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHLA_2026_4_236 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:52 - Adventure prep in 30mins 11:05 - D&D abandoning adventure modules? 22:06 - WotC hire new 3PP role 29:11 - Lairs of Etharis 31:12 - World of Darkness OGL 40:26 - Worst part of turning into a monster 44:55 - A return to analog TTRPG's?

#236. How D&D's New UA Misses the Point of Playing Evil Characters!

Apr 8, 2026 58 min

Unearthed Arcana unlocks the power of EVIL for D&D 5.5e, with a villainous new Cleric, Druid, Fighter, and Sorcerer subclass. With villainous feats also empowering players, does WotC miss the point of playing evil characters?\ Delve into the Lairs of Etharis: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GHLA_2026_4_236 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 07:00 - Lairs of Etharis x Mega Dungeon Month 10:55 - Unearthed Arcana: Villainous Options 27:10 - Villainous transformations 32:52 - Hasbro vs the netrunners 35:02 - Greyhawk: Shield Lands 36:33 - Free League OGL

#235. The D&D Digital Era Continues with the Quickbuilder

Apr 1, 2026 57 min

D&D Beyond releases the character Quickbuilder while MCDM launches the Codex for Draw Steel on Steam marketplace. Player or GM, the digital age of TTRPG's is here to stay! Delve into Mega Dungeon Month: https://www.backerkit.com/c/collections/mega-dungeon-month The Codex Pricing & Distribution: https://www.patreon.com/posts/codex-pricing-153537787 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 05:26 - Cyberpunk Red reprint 08:55 - D&D Beyond Quickbuilder 13:36 - The Draw Steel Codex 22:22 - Mega Dungeon Month 25:46 - Are 5.5e Gish overpowered? 40:54 - Living up to a Forever DM

#234. WotC Announces ANOTHER D&D Setting Book!

Mar 25, 2026 58 min

Wizards of the Coast collaborates with Melf himself, Luke Gygax, on a new Greyhawk setting book for D&D 5.5e. Meanwhile we plan a TTRPG heist adventure and debate random encounter charts. Back Neopia Quest today! https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GGNQ_2026_1_226 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:19 - Playing a MEGA-dungeon 09:42 - Melf's Guide to Greyhawk 22:35 - Neopia Quest launches! 24:59 - Direct sales vs distribution 31:16 - Heists and sneaking past danger! 50:35 - Using random encounter charts

#233. Top 10 Selling TTRPG's of 2025... #04 is SHOCKING!

Mar 18, 2026 1 hr 0 min

10 Tabletop Roleplaying Games DOMINATED 2025 sales from Sept-Nov, Matt Colville shows how MCDM continue to do things differently, and why backseat Dungeon Mastering drives us all nuts! Follow Neopia Quest for updates: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GGNQ_2026_1_226 Check out ⁨@masteringdungeons⁩ MCDM interview: https://youtu.be/6-dUeIQHRYs?si=yNNRb9AtCEumvhTY Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:43 - Top selling TTRPGs 22:16 - Matt Colville interview recap 28:40 - Neopets ends Geekify license 32:53 - Neopia Quest 34:51 - Critical Role movie 39:40 - Backseat DMing 47:21 - Best 5e monster rules

#232. A D&D Roadmap FINALLY Arrives and It Looks... Sick?

Mar 11, 2026 54 min

WotC reveal D&D Seasons as the roadmap forward in 2026, including new Ravenloft content in the Season of Horror and Arcana Unleashed to empower spellcasters! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:05 - D&D Beyond interview recap 08:15 - Chris Cocks on AI (briefly) 09:22 - D&D roadmap 28:48 - Vox Machina S4 33:19 - Kickstarter United 35:15 - 1 setting, multiple tables? 46:13 - Big monsters at low levels

#231. D&D Beyond FINALLY Fixes the 5.5e Confusion!

Mar 4, 2026 1 hr 1 min

Ben & Todd talk to Brian Perry (Executive Producer) and Zac Cohn (MAPS Product Manager) to explore how D&D Beyond is changing to make playing D&D 5.5e a better game to play! Critical Role makes a new hire, and the Exodus TTRPG not published by WotC? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:45 - Brian Perry and Zac Cohn Interview 37:37 - New DnD books 44:25 - Crit Role hires Alyssa 52:31 - DnD Fan Expo London 56:10 - Exodus RPG

#230. Can a D&D Beyond Roadmap Save the Platform?

Feb 25, 2026 54 min

A roadmap for D&D Beyond reveals new upcoming features, the OGL architect claims AI could replace game designers, and is it better to have more classes or subclasses in a TTRPG like D&D or Pathfinder? Follow Neopia Quest for updates: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GGNQ_2026_1_226 D&D Beyond roadmap article: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/2132-d-d-beyonds-2026-development-roadmap Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 07:29 - D&D Beyond roadmap 23:03 - Neopets TTRPG disaster 28:47 - Can AI replace game designers? 37:41 - Pathfinder playtest 40:53 - Classes vs subclasses

#229. The D&D 2014 Finale We ALMOST Got!

Feb 18, 2026 58 min

Chris Perkins reveals how Vecna: Eve of Ruin COULD have been a perfect finale for 5e 2014, D&D continues the march towards its digital future, and is the fall of Discord going to harm tabletop roleplaying games? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 09:20 - Vecna’s missing obelisks 19:57 - Hasbro pushes digital 26:46 - Discord hurting TTRPGs 35:42 - Villain foreshadowing 49:39 - Volcano adventures

#228. D&D's Sequel to Baldur's Gate 3 Announced!

Feb 11, 2026 58 min

D&D gets a television series as a sequel to Baldur's Gate 3 while Apple TV greenlights multiple Cosmere projects. Then remembering we're a TTRPG podcast, we debate whether Wild Shape is magical and why Encumbrance is a GREAT RULE, ACTUALLY TODD! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:16 - Is Wild Shape magic? 08:46 - HBO Baldur's Gate 3 series 17:59 - Apple TV Cosmere series 24:39 - Beadle & Grimms D&D leaks 27:41 - GM books vs player books 37:14 - When to help players with rules 51:51 - Enforcing encumbrance

#227. Demiplane OVERTAKES D&D Beyond with New Features?

Feb 4, 2026 53 min

Does Demiplane's NEW Campaign feature give it an edge over D&D Beyond? Meanwhile, WotC continues hiring game designers, and how can YOU design the best dungeons? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:59 - WotC hires MORE designers 05:49 - New Hasbro board members 08:07 - Why AI can't play D&D 15:19 - New Demiplane features 21:16 - Designing GREAT dungeons 35:56 - Setting Ability Check DC's

#226. Deciding the GREATEST D&D 5e Adventure Module!

Jan 28, 2026 53 min

D&D introduces itself to Fortnite players, WotC hires ANOTHER fantastic game designer, and we decide upon the TOP 3 D&D 5e Adventure Modules! Follow Neopia Quest here: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_GGNQ_2026_1_226 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - TOP 3 D&D Adventure Modules 12:18 - WotC Hires Shawn 13:30 - D&D Fortnite collab 18:01 - D&D Beyond 3rd party updates 25:42 - Neopia Quest 29:45 - DriveThru RPG price rise 30:50 - Farewell Jean Rabe 32:08 - Making solo scenes work 43:45 - Homebrew magic items Fortnite island codes: D&D Boxfights – 1190-4691-0255 D&D Treasure RNG – 4958-2624-5634 D&D Dungeon Deathrun – 5806-6430-0158 D&D Bossfight – 2218-1049-5866 D&D Zombie Dragon Adventure (early access) – 2525-9596-3235

#225. Why are D&D Books Getting Smaller!?

Jan 21, 2026 1 hr 1 min

Is the D&D Shrinkflation getting more noticeable with Eberron: Forge of the Artificer? Are bigger or smaller TTRPG books better? Does Critical Role or Stranger Things sell more D&D? All that, and more! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ⁨@jberrt⁩ Topics: 00:00 - D&D book shrinkflation 08:34 - Ed Greenwood on RPG book quality 18:58 - Non-WotC Forgotten Realms book? 25:45 - WotC staff shuffle 32:42 - The Stranger Things effect 40:31 - Unearthed Arcana: Mystic Subclass 47:49 - Games Workshop says "No AI" 53:11 - Are miniatures needed?

#224. The REAL Reason We Only Talk D&D (and Daggerheart)

Jan 14, 2026 1 hr 6 min

Why ARE D&D, Daggerheart, and Draw Steel the ONLY roleplaying games folks talk about? What is Crows and when can you playtest it? How do you tackle GM mental overload? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: @ToddKenreck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ⁨@DannyCalamari⁩ Topics: 00:00 - Intro 00:29 - Non-D&D games we play 03:55 - Why we DON'T talk non-D&D games 17:05 - What is Crows? 25:47 - Handling GM mental overload 39:11 - Hex grid vs square grid 48:38 - Alternate combat win conditions

#223. New Year, New Co-Host, but Where's D&D in 2026?

Jan 7, 2026 53 min

The biggest D&D news podcast welcomes their newest Co-Host! Critical Role plans for their future while WotC is yet to reveal any D&D books for 2026. Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael Todd: ⁨@ToddKenreck⁩ Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ⁨@jberrt⁩ Topics: 00:00 - Intro 03:34 - Todd Kenreck's new job! 05:45 - D&D's plans in 2026 13:03 - Stranger Things S5 (spoilers) 17:46 - Future of Critical Role 32:45 - Adhoc and Crit Role video game 36:00 - Industry passings 37:09 - Stat Block integrity

#222. Should the #1 D&D Podcast Finally Call it Quits?

Dec 31, 2025 1 hr 3 min

The Eldritch Lorecast says another sad farewell! We try deciphering our own Spotify wrapped while pondering whether systems of magic inherently make it impossible to balance a TTRPG, and is that a bad thing? Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ⁨Danny Camilleri Topics: 00:00 - Intro 04:23 - Lorecast's terrible analytics 20:51- Another sad farewell 24:03 - Systems of magic 34:25 - Balancing spellcasters 46:06 - Is balancing the party important? 56:16 - Favorite poems

#221. Looking Back on the BIGGEST 2025 D&D News!

Dec 24, 2025 52 min

What was the BEST game released in 2025? What stories reshaped the TTRPG industry? The Eldritch Lorecast celebrates another year of D&D and tabletop gaming with the Elly Awards! Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @dailydael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: ⁨@jberrt⁩ Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:23 - Biggest news of 2025 12:01- Best TTRPG release 16:56 - Best TTRPG related release 22:59 - Best Con of 2025 27:46 - Guests of the year 30:01 - A sad farewell 35:04 - New Years resolutions 45:29 - Best Lorecast moments 2025

#220. Does Paying Your DM Ruin the D&D Hobby?

Dec 17, 2025 1 hr 1 min

Paying your DM can change the dynamic at your D&D table, but do paid dungeon masters ruin the TTRPG hobby for everyone? Meanwhile, WotC makes a pact for the next D&D video game: Warlock! LAST CHANCE to Late Pledge to Grim Hollow: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ghostfiregaming/grim-hollow?ref=5z40qv Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @jberrt Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - Divinity trailer 04:24 - Warlock D&D game 19:43 - Jason Carl departs White Wolf 24:30 - New head of D&D! 26:59 - Holiday stream schedule 28:55 - Finding regular players 40:54 - Paid GMing

#219. Is D&D's Biggest Competitor Already Dead?

Dec 10, 2025 1 hr 1 min

The Cosmere RPG set the record for TTRPG crowdfunding and then vanished? So where did it go? Meanwhile D&D Beyond plans for the future and why is Jubensha the best roleplaying game you've never heard of? Enter the Enchanting Emporiums with 30% off (use EE30): https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_ELEE_2025_12_219 People Make Games⁩ Jubensha documentary: https://youtu.be/6_dlxbGUNNQ?si Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael Shawn: @shawnmerwin Brooks: @brookstho Editor: Jess Berthelsen-Murray Topics: 00:00 - Intro 02:50 - Is Cosmere over already? 14:46 - Jubensha (scripted murder) 28:43 - An Italian 5e adventure 31:40 - Future for D&D Beyond 39:38 - Enchanting Emporiums 43:09 - Evil Hat Production pitches 45:05 - Make 5e combat challenging

#218. We've Been LIED To About D&D Sales!

Dec 3, 2025 1 hr 2 min

D&D sales figures expose the REAL popularity of 5e 2024, we're give our gift giving guide for the TTRPG fan in your life, and discuss how to bring adventure campaigns to that satisfying conclusion! Transform your wardrobe at the Ghostfire merch store: https://ghostfiregaming.com/GGYT_Store_2025_11_204 Email your questions to podcast@ghostfiregaming.com Ben: @TheBenByrne Dael: @DailyDael James: @jamesjhaeck Shawn: @shawnmerwin Editor: @ZsDante Topics: 00:00 - Intro 01:13 - TTRPG gift guide 05:09 - D&D sales lies! 19:02 - Restarting a Campaign after hiatus 30:28 - Satisfying campaign endings

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Podcast details

Created by: Ghostfire Gaming
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 11, 2026
Episodes: 267
Release period: Weekly
Avg. episode length: 1 hr
Explicit: No
Language: English

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