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Podcast On YouTube

That is right! The podcast is now uploaded to YouTube. This has been a work in progress for a while. We wanted to provide a visualizer and not just a static image. We hope to expand our YouTube presence as time goes on!

Latest Podcast Episode

TCW 223 - D&D & Video Games 2E

In the second part of our exploration of Dungeons & Dragons and its connection to video games, we examine the game’s refinement and rise in popularity. D&D was a groundbreaking experience, brought to life through Gary Gygax’s collaboration with others, particularly Dave Arneson, who developed many of its foundational concepts. The game evolved from miniature wargaming focused on medieval combat, with Tolkien-inspired high fantasy elements added later as an afterthought. These fantasy rules closely resembled those of Rules for Middle Earth but weren’t universally embraced, as some players preferred the realism of traditional wargaming, making it challenging to satisfy both audiences. We also delve into the well-known controversy between Gygax and Arneson and the creation of the Blackmoor campaign setting. We explore how TSR released the original box set and then evolved it into AD&D. Additionally, we examine how RPGs began to take off as a whole new type of game that people could play. Finally, we look at how D&D became embroiled in the cultural backlash of the 1980s "Satanic Panic."