In today’s episode, Monica and Rai sit down to discuss the concept of the hard bargain – a social refusal mechanic that can improve any game. We talk about what they are, how to use them, and how to implement them in your homebrew or professional design.
Category: Bonus Experience
A deeper look at the play experience and the finer details of running and writing tabletop games from two queer experts with sparkling water.
BXP 05×04-DEEP DIVE: Core Systems Loop
D joins Monica for another Deep Dive! We discuss the concept of a “core system” loop, aka what central concepts make a game’s system tick. We go in-depth into the mechanics of a handful of our favorite games to demonstrate.
BXP 05×03-BXP Talks D&D 4e (feat. David Castro)
In today’s episode, Monica is joined by David Castro of Ink Stained Studios to talk D&D 4e: the good parts, the bad parts, its history, and its impact on current design.
BXP 05×02-Forever GM or Game Ambassador?
Today Monica and Rai tackle the thorny subject of always being stuck in the GM seat. Is that a good thing? A bad one? Neither? We discuss the ups and downs of being the game facilitator and how to feel less anxious about stepping into the role yourself.
BXP 05×01-A Lukewarm Defense of Perception Checks
Today we’re talking about Perception checks – that old chestnut. Are they bad? Are they good? Should we throw them away entirely? What’s even the point of having them? Monica and Rai break down their thoughts on the topic.
BXP 05×00 – IT’S SEASON FIVE, BABEYYY
Did you miss us? Don’t worry, we’re “on” again for the next six months. Drink it up while you can. Tell your friends. Tell your spouse. Tell your kids. Tell your parents. …on second thought maybe not those last two.
BXP 04×12 – The Joys of Chargen
We discuss Rai’s harrowing mouth experiences, what we’re GONNA talk about next time, and that feel when a snake beats you in the gubernatorial race for Elysium.
BXP 04×11 – Teeth are the Naughty Bones
We discuss Rai’s harrowing mouth experiences, what we’re GONNA talk about next time, and that feel when a snake beats you in the gubernatorial race for Elysium.
BXP 04×10 – Build a Better One-Shot
In today’s episode we discuss the art of the one-shot, including: games that are suited for short play, how to MAKE a game suited for short play, and how one gets ideas for short games anyway.
BXP 04×09 – BXP Reads: Dragonhearts
In today’s episode Monica and Rai review Dragonhearts, a Firebrands hack about playing shapeshifting dragons who fight and kiss. It’s extremely our shit.