What Would The Smart Party Do? (The Smart Party)

Episode 177 – Wilderness Travel

Fancy a trip to the Isle of Dread!? This episode the lads take a look at traveling in the wilderness, how to make it interesting and what tips and trips can improve the journey.

If you dig actual plays then check out the new ⁠Unconventional GMs⁠ for games played in about two hours!

Live From the Spring Kraken 2024 in Germany, Gaz joined forces with game designer Robin D Laws and fellow Unconventional GM Guy Milner to give a seminar on running adventures games for ttrpgs.

If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new ⁠⁠Unconventional GMs YouTube channel⁠⁠.

Episode 184 – Hot War, Cold City (with Jon Hodgson and Malcolm Craig)

Joining the ‘cast this time, Jon Hodgson of Handiwork Games and RPG author and academic Malcolm Craig. The Cold War period and monster hunting in Berlin come to the fore as the lads dive into Hot War and Cold City among other great games from the Handiwork studio!

You can find out more about Malcolm Craig here. And here are some links for Handiwork Games:
Hot War & Cold City
FiveEvil
Maskwitches
Beowulf

If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel.

The long-awaited return of Cold City and Hot War gives the lads a perfect opportunity to talk to designer Malcolm Craig about the new versions of the game, inspiration for cold war Berlin, a deep dive into lazy-GM mechanics and much more!

For an Actual Play of the new game in action, go to the Unconventional GMs youtube channel.

Check out more details on the games on the Handiwork website.

Episode 178 – Starforged With Shawn Tomkin

Returning special guest Shawn Tomkin, designer of Ironsworn and of particular interest this time, Starforged. It’s an excellent Sci Fi RPG and well worth digging into, which is exactly what the lads do this time!

If you dig actual plays then check out the new ⁠Unconventional GMs⁠ for games played in about two hours!

Episode 180 – Shadow of the Weird Wizard with Rob Schwalb

Returning special guest Rob Schwalb, creator of Shadow of the Demonlord, Punk Apocalyptica, D&D designer and more, returns to the show to tell us all about his design process and work on his new Kickstarter, Shadow of the Weird Wizard.

The Kickstarter project page is here:

Shadow of the Weird Wizard.

If you dig actual plays, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel. Lots of great games played with vim and vigour in two hours or less.

How much should players contribute to the ttrpg experience? How much are they allowed too? The lads discuss getting more out of your gaming sessions.

Gaz is joined by (Stunt Ben) Guy to talk about pacing in games. How do you manage pace and get the most out of your sessions?

Check out Unconventional GMs for pace-filled games!

This time Becky Annison and Josh Fox of Black Armada Games join us to talk about the new edition of Lovecraftesque, GMless games, design and small press publishing.

Find out all about Black Armada on their website.

Check out fast-paced Actual Play at Unconventional GMs!

Episode 185 – Cities (aka Fantasy Tripadvisor)

After wandering the wilderness and diving down dungeons, plucky adventurers wish to go to an enthralling city. Maybe your entire campaign is based around one location. The lads explore various cities from ttrgps and the merits and flaws thereof!

If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel.

We were delighted to have returning guest Jason Cordova on to talk about all things Brindlewood Bay, The Gauntlet and more!

The Gauntlet

Feat of a Black Dragon

The Darkened Threshold

Burn After Running

Unconventional GMs

With a new edition of D&D on its way, more evolution than revolution, what elements could be done differently? The lads dive into other games and new ideas to see what could make the hobby's big player even better.

Episode 181 – Gaming in Ukraine with Tasha from idearoll

Fresh from The Kraken gaming retreat, the lads have met old friends and made new ones. Chief among those is Tasha from the idearoll youtube channel, who joins them this week to talk about gaming events, the scene in Ukraine and challenges of the current environment. A great episode full of enthusiasm and community spirit!

You can find the idearoll channel below (in Ukrainian), which also has several other links for supporting the team’s efforts. idearoll on YouTube.

Get yourself a copy of the Vaesen Spirits and Monsters of Mythic Ukraine on Drivethru here.

Charitable links:
Defence And Demining
Medical Aid
Rebuild Ukraine
Come Back Alive
Hospitallers

If you dig actual plays, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel. Lots of great games played with vim and vigour in two hours or less.

Episode 183 – Unacceptable! (a.k.a. It’s Not You It’s Us)

There are a plethora of gaming events to go to these days and you meet all kinds of people and playstyles. Often this is a cause for celebration, a way to pick up new ideas and techniques. Sometimes though, it’s suboptimal. There are still some people who haven’t got the memo about gaming with others, and this time the lads aim to set things straight.

Episode 186 – What Games Workshop Can Teach Us

There's a lot of crossover between geeky hobbies, and with the lads both working for the big Games Workshop back in the day, what can skirmish games teach us about RPGs?

If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new ⁠Unconventional GMs YouTube channel⁠.

Episode 179 – Pendragon 6e with David Larkins

Returning special guest David Larkins, Line Editor for the King Arthur Pendragon RPG joins the lads to talk about the new edition, it’s starter set and get back to basics on what Pendragon is all about for new players and old hands alike!

If you dig actual plays then check out the new ⁠Unconventional GMs⁠ for games played in about two hours!

Episode 174 – Beyond Dread Portals (a.k.a. Climinal)

This time the boys are joined by Good Friend of the Show and returning guest Dr Mitch and Newt from D101 Games to talk about their new project Beyond Dread Portals. A game for those wanting to move slightly away from what D&D has to offer, but with some familiarity so the leap of faith isn’t too scary!

Episode 176 – Dungeons Not Dragons

Whether you’re from the old school days of white-lined maps on blue backgrounds, or newly arrived at the idea of maps, scouring the internet for your Roll20 backgrounds, dungeons have a long and storied history in RPGs. Join the lads as they look back over the years at dungeons, what makes them good and how they can be used better.

If you dig actual plays then check out the new ⁠Unconventional GMs⁠ for games played in about two hours

How do you put more character in your #ttrpg character? You don't have to go full method actor, here are some simple and actionable ideas to get you started.
If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new ⁠Unconventional GMs YouTube channel⁠.

Episode 182 – How To GM with Justin Alexander

The lads are delighted to have returning Good Friend of the Show, RPG producer and designer at Atlas Games, Justin Alexander. He’s got a new book coming out, available in all good purveyors of such things, So You Want To Be A Game Master. Join for great insights, some not seen or heard before on the Alexandrian (or maybe anywhere!) and to get a unique precis of what is in this fine work. Visit Justin’s excellent RPG resource The Alexandrian, as check out what’s hot at Atlas Games.

If you dig actual plays played with vim and vigour, check out the new Unconventional GMs YouTube channel.

How do you prepare a new game for running at a convention, event or just with your friends? Gaz is joined by Stunt Ben, Guy from the Burn After Running blog and Craig from Third Floor Wars to give you all the advice you need and more!

If you’re a fan of the show, you’ll know we love AGON, powered by the Paragon system. This time the lads are delighted to be joined by Sean Nittner, the co-author and independent game designer Tim Denee, who’s done some great stuff with the game. Come on in for a deep dive on the game design process, what makes these sets of games great and how to squeeze more gaming juice from your sessions!

Evil Hat have a ton of great games you can peruse for your delectation on their website.
You can see more of Tim’s great work on his website, Old Dog Games
If you’re in the US, or plan on travelling there for a convention, find out about Big Bad Con here.

If you dig actual plays then check out the new Unconventional GMs for games played in about two hours!

Hi All

It's been a minute, we've had a lot to deal with on the home front, but I've pulled out the stops and got you some Stunt Bens in to chat about reviews in gaming - how useful they are and what we want from them.

Have a great festive season - all the best!

Gaz & Ben

Episode 57 - Playing Up
(a.k.a Player's advice for players)

We have books full of gaming advice for GMs, but where is all the help for players? What can you do to help your fellow players out? Shouldn't we all just be helping each other have a great time?


All this and more answered in this episode, with your genial hosts, Baz and Gaz!

We don't do Kickstarters for the podcasts, but we do have a Patreon. Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and help us pay for hosting and other sundries. Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content!

Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

The lads are back from holiday! They've been reading stuff, playing games, going to conventions. This week they just about Games Expo, ConDamned and not wearing pants. Also! Bonus content - preparing characters for a con game or maybe just rolling them up at the convention table. Why do one over the other?



You can find out about ConDamned on t'Facebook group. If you fancy getting involved in UK Games Expo, their website is here.

Want a sweet Fanzine from The Smart Party? Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and help us pay for hosting and other sundries.

Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Join in some great chat on G+ with a varied RPG community.

Episode 54 – Counting Beans
Special Guest time once more! The Gents speak to Paul Baldowski, joint creator of the excellent All Rolled Up gaming accessories, prolific blog writer, author of the Cthulhu Hack and more! We also chat about the latest games from Sweden and try to work out why we love them so much. Like Stranger Things? Play The Future Loop!

Want a sweet Fanzine from The Smart Party? Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and help us pay for hosting and other sundries.
Email the guys
Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party
Join in some great chat on G+ with a varied RPG community.

Episode 55 - Licensed Games with Mat Hart

If you've heard about Guild Ball and the Dark Souls board game, you'll have heard of record-breaking Kickstarters from Steamforged Games. The lads have an extensive chat with the loquacious Mat Hart about RPGs, licensed games, kickstarters and what he's having for tea.


We don't do Kickstarters for the podcasts, but we do have a Patreon. Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and help us pay for hosting and other sundries. Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content!

Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Join in some great chat on G+ with a varied RPG community.

What Would The Smart Party Do? Episode 2: What are your favourite mechanics? (a.k.a. “Going All Bilbo”) Whether or not you think system matters, the mechanics of a game are an integral part of what can make it a good or bad experience. So, what are good mechanics? Gaz and Baz talk about some of […]

Episode 3: Problem players and what to do with them (a.k.a. Snooze you lose) What are problem players and what do you do with them? If you don’t think you have a problem player, maybe it’s you? Gaz and Baz talk about some of their experiences and what to do to change things for the […]

Episode 4: Settings (a.k.a. Cutting Up Museums) We remember them well from Fantasy Heartbreakers to the finest game ever made. Creating your own setting at the table through play might be all the rage, but nothing beats a good published setting. Gaz and Baz talk us through some of their favourites and discuss what makes […]

Episode 5: Art in RPGs (a.k.a. Dancing About Architecture) What is the place of art in RPGs? Does it still have meaning? What constitutes good or bad art? Isn’t it all subjective? Gaz and Baz discuss some of their favourite artists and pieces as they negotiate some of the wider considerations of RPG art.

Episode 1: Trad or Indie? Who would win in a fight? (a.k.a. Oceans 11 With Polearms) Is there such a thing Trad or Indie? What does the Venn diagram look like? What the blue blazes is Trindie? This and more awaits you, gentle listener.

Episode 6: Keeping Everyone Together (a.k.a. A Fighter, a Thief and a Magic User Walk Into a Bar…) You’ve sat down for a new game but you want to know how your group of adventurers fit together. Or do you? Why not just crack on with the adventure straight away? What happens when someone’s character […]

Episode​ ​​7​​: ​​Being a Better Player (a.k.a.​​ ​I’ve Painted Myself Out of a Game​) ​There’s lots of advice for GMs, but how can we be a better player? Every day is a school day, so if only there was a podcast to help us with lessons on how to do a more sterling job of […]

Episode​ ​​8​​: Gaming Rock Stars (a.k.a.​​ ​Giant Attack Redacted​) We’ve all seen them, surrounded by groupies, sipping champagne from crystal d20s, but are writers and designers of games rock stars? Heroes? Have we got any, do they exist?

Episode 9: Kickstarters (a.k.a. Crowd Source of Amusement) Kickstarter, IndieGoGo and publishers getting money in advance – what’s the state of play and what does it mean for getting games published? Does it help the small guys? All this and more…

Episode 10 – Social Conflict (a.k.a I Hit It In The Ennui) What do you do when you’re playing a silver-tongued devil but haven’t got the words as a player? I can’t fence, but sword-fighting seems well covered in RPGs. Do you need a doctorate to play a scientist? All these questions are more are […]

Episode 12 – Historical Gaming (a.k.a The Three Mathematicians) Why play in the real world when you’ve got a fantastical one? Wait, there’s our own history with lots of excellent genres and documents to mine! What do the Smart Party know about such things? Not enough, so we’ve recruited that bastion of Britishness and sartorial […]

Episode 13 – OSR (a.k.a Arguing About Mindflayers) What the heck is OSR anyway? Damned if I know, so we got the lovely Dan (from The Undercroft fanzine fame) to come and school us like it’s 1987. So come find out what those letters stand for, what the gaming movement is about, does everyone on […]

Episode 14 – The Future (a.k.a You Can’t Text in Traveller) What is the future for RPGs? Are we destined to have a weird hobby that is only played in nursing homes and retirement communities, or is the hobby Strong Like Bull? What do two old men know about it anyway? Baz talks about rappers […]

Bonus Episode – The Kraken This week I was at The Kraken, a gaming retreat in Germany, halfway between Berlin and Hamburg at a lovely Schloss. I managed to grab half an hour with head honcho Fabian Küchler to ask him about this idea of a gaming vacation rather than convention, what motivates him and […]

Episode 15 – Games Workshop (a.k.a Ten Commandments) Games Workshop – that most divisive of topics, known to all the gaming world and yet so misunderstood. Or is it? The Smart Party podcasters used to work for the GW and have insider knowledge. Come join us and find out what life is like on the […]

Epsiode 16 – Convention Games a.k.a. Conventional Wisdom What’s the difference between convention games and regular home games? Is D&D any good? What are the top tips for running convention games? Listen to Gaz & Baz as they give you their accumulated wisdow! Read more advice here and pay what you want! Why not become […]

Episode 17 – Organising Furnace a.k.a. Burn Baby Burn Hot on the heels (pun maybe intended) of our interview with convention organiser Fabian at The Kraken, we bring you Graham Spearing of Furnace fame to tell us about his experiences over the last ten years. The Smart Party produced a pair of Fate adventures to […]

Episode 18 – Science Fiction a.k.a. Gaming With the Stars Why isn’t Science Fiction as good as Fantasy? Doesn’t seem to be from a gaming scene point of view, when blatantly it is in other media. So where are the good Sci Fi games at? What are the pitfalls of Sci Fi gaming and what […]

Episode 19 – Cyberpunk a.k.a. Designer Clothes for Roleplayers “The ‘Net is a waste of time, and that’s exactly what’s right about it.” – William Gibson  Hot off the back of the Science Fiction ‘cast we bring you Cyberpunk!  It’s a Tale of Two Cities, pink Mohawks, chrome implants, Corporate Troubleshooters and anarchistic players and characters. […]

Episode 20 – Gamer Bling (a.k.a Spending money you don’t have on things you don’t need) The festive season is already upon us (almost) and we’re already writing our shopping lists for Santa and generous relatives who don’t understand the hobby. Also, Dragonmeet approaches with even greater alacrity. What should gamers get other people to […]

Episode 21 – Dragonmeet 2015 (a.k.a Too Much Cthulhu) Dragonmeet took place in London Village last weekend, with over 1000 delegates, many of whom packed the seminar room to hear us discuss whether there was too much Cthulhu in gaming. As a live recording the sound is somewhat woeful, but hopefully you’ll enjoy some lively […]

Episode 22 – Taking Ideas From Other Games (a.k.a New Year, New Ideas) The tinsel is in disarray and the clammy grip of work clutches our hearts, but fear not, for The Smart Party are back with another Podcast! This week we talk about what we can glean from those gamey Christmas presents we got; […]

Episode 23 – Urban Fantasy & Unknown Armies (a.k.a. Urban Armies) Urban fantasy seems like a big old piece of the genre, so we dig around in it a bit before taking an in depth look at our favourite example; Unknown Armies. With a 3rd edition on its way, we can look back fondly on […]

Episode 24 – Superhero Gaming (a.k.a. Super Troopers) Baz is all “make mine Marvel” while Gaz doesn’t really understand why people would wear their underpants on the outside. Our intrepid ‘casters dive into the emotive issue of superhero gaming. Is D&D and supers game? Is there even a good supers RPG out there? Is it […]

Episode 25 – Dying in the First Ten Minutes (a.k.a. Character Generation) Roll the dice, throw the bones, allocate points or get a pre-gen; this week the Smart Party talk about character generation and all related items. Regrettably Gaz is suffering from the dreaded Man Flu (2pt disadvantage) and Baz is similarly afflicted and talking […]

Episode 26 – Putting Ticks in Boxes (a.k.a. Experience) Hot on the heels of character generation, our characters want to level up! What’s the deal with experience points and levels? Are they an archaic throwback to the beginning of gaming or still relevant? Join our Baz and Gaz on a journey though experience systems from […]

Episode 27 – Comabt (a.k.a. Roll For Initiative) Why can’t we all just get along? Because fighting is fun, in gaming at least. Or is it? Why does it take up so much of RPG text and sessions in general? Baz and Gaz roll up their sleeves and knife fight over what all this conflict […]

Episode 28 – Systems Redux (a.k.a. System of a Down) Baz wrestles with the question “Do we have too many systems?” – are there enough? Too many? Why are people bringing out more? Gaz drinks Hot Toddies and cough medicine in equal amounts in order to help fuel more discussion. Join the team for a […]

Episode 29 – Android : Netrunner RPGs (a.k.a. The Future Perfect) Special guest time! UK Netrunner National Champion (and avid roleplayer) Alex White joins Baz and Gaz to talk about the Android : Netrunner universe and how or why you’d play there. It’s not all dark dystopia or combat chapters, new ideas via old science […]

Episode 30 – Character Sheets (a.k.a. Got Any Rope?) Fresh back from 7 Hills gaming convention Gaz is enthused about character sheets and giving players enough rope to hang themselves. Baz gets in on the action as the lads talk through prepping for a convention game and how a good set of character sheets can […]

Episode 31 – Into The Odd (Walkthrough) This week Baz takes Gaz through a journey Into the Odd by Chris McDowall. First impressions, through character creation (all four rolls of it) and on to deeper into the OSR style book with a difference. Come join the lads as they have a root around in the […]

Episode 32 – Roll the Bones (a.k.a When to Roll Dice) An interesting question from one of our lovely Patreons, when do you (as a GM) ask for dice rolls? If you’re not rolling them, how do you make things happen? Baz and Gaz ramble through a field of dice-filled ideas and thoughts on rolling […]

Episode 33 – Into the Odd (a.k.a A Merman Fell Down The Well) With a bunch of our gorgeous Patreons, and other hangers on, Baz led us through a session of Into The Odd and much hilarity ensued. Here we talk about our experiences and how the game shaped the play. Stay tuned to the […]

Episode 34 – Fate Accelerated (Walkthrough) As Queen would say, I wanna make a supersonic man out of you – or woman, or however you self-identify. Baz and Gaz deep dive into the wonderfully diverse-friendly Fate Accelerated; a quick and fast introduction to the Fate family of games. You can get it yourself on Pay […]

Episode 35 – Long Con, Short Con Convention season is upon us and the team have been to UK Games Expo and had a great time. More on that and then a discussion on upcoming events and conventions in general. Could we go for a short demo version of a convention? What’s happened to the […]

Episode 36 – Community Spirit This one is about you. No, not you, you. We’re all one big happy gaming community right? Everyone gets out what they put in. Well maybe the Gents are a little to old now, and they can’t get the old working man’s club feel they used to get. Perhaps communities […]

Episode 37 – What We Want From Books Gaming books aren’t what they used to be. Back in the old days summers were longer and hotter; and cricket balls were harder. RPG books gave you everything they wanted… Or did they? The Gents take off their rose-tinted glasses (sometimes) to talk about what they want […]

Episode 38 – Continuum 2016 It was like getting the band back together – not only were Baz and Gaz at Continuum, so were a fistful of other Smart Party members and we cornered Pete to tell us about his experience and why Fate isn’t rubbish. Sound quality varies as we were live and direct […]

Episode 39 – Preparing for the Wurst (a.k.a. Gaz had too many sausages in Germany) This week the lads are back from jollies and are all full of beans (and wurst), but also hot tips on preparing games for conventions (or elsewhere really). Join The Smart Party on a post-summer enthused hour of talking all […]

Bonus Episode – Actual Play – Night’s Black Agents Special bonus edition! The lads are joined by Patreon’s Steven and Piers for a taster session of Night’s Black Agents. Join the gang for a dip into Warsaw’s seedy underbelly crossed with the Bourne Identity and some preternatural goings on. Warning – does contain some naughty […]

The Kraken is a fabulous Gaming Retreat (not convention) in Germany, about half way between Berlin and Hamburg. Run by Runequest Gesellschaft e.V. a non-profit organisation, the event has very much a family feel to it, with previous guests becoming part of the organising team and new attendees welcomed to the bosom of gaming like […]

Contrary to popular opinion, Baz and Gaz don’t agree on everything. With the upcoming festive Halloween season nearly upon them, the lads chat about horror games and try to get to bottom of why Baz isn’t enamoured. Also mostly spoiler-free chat of Stranger Things and why it’s good! Want more of the same? By becoming […]

Baz and Gaz investigate the recent spate of hacks, including The Black Hack and Cthulhu Hack. Small press house rules for the masses, Emperor’s New Clothes, inspired pet projects? The lads have a wander through some of the recent offerings in search of what the new hawtness is all about. Want more of the same? […]

“It’s all about balance” as Gaz’s long-suffering manager used to say in the face of another “challenge” from his firebrand employee. Being a Libran, Gaz could relate to this. The lads engage in a hearty discussion on what balance means for games, if we’ve got it, and it it’s worth having. Want more of the […]

How do you get a game in a new town? The lovely Guy from Go Play : Leeds joins us this week to chat about his experiences and how he approached this perennial issue. Turns out if you look about your home town, it could easily be a mine of (until now) undiscovered gamers… Want […]

A new gaming year awaits us! What’s hip, hop and happenin’? The lads discuss plans for the future, new releases, upcoming conventions and a couple of rumours and speculations! Want more of the same? By becoming an honoured Patreon, to keep us encouraged, or if you’re feeling fruity, simply drop the guys a line and […]

Well the Christmas lull is over, back to work and no time to be reading large tomes of gaming goodness. What's an avid gamer to do? How about get some products that allow you to roll up inspiration? Will that give us all we need? What are the advantages? Our intrepid duo go fell-running with d20s to find out.

Episode 47 – The State of the Smart Party (a.k.a. You’re Safe From Fireballs on a Bus) This week the guys have a good old ramble through what’s going on in their gaming world at the minute, including new purchases, Baz’s game that he’s writing and more! Want more of the same? By becoming an […]

Episode 48 – Ten Interesting Mechanics (a.k.a. Systems Are Doing It For Themselves) There are a plethora, nay myriad of systems out there, so what are some good ones? The lads chat through some of their favourite ways of rolling funny shaped dice. Thanks to the d20 Future Show for inspiring this week’s topic. Want […]

Episode 49 – Ten Things We’re Jonesing For (a.k.a. Chasing the Dragon) This week the guys talk about ten of their current favourite gaming things. Everything from Post Apocalypse to Super Heroes, trying new things, system specific conventions, alternate history, Asterix, blogs and more! Next time it’ll be our 50th episode! Drop us a line […]

Episode 62 - Preparing For Dragonmeet

If you're going to try a one day gaming convention in the Big Smoke, then Dragonmeet is the place to be. What to expect though? Baz and Gaz lead you through everything that's going down, provide stories of previous adventures, and fill you in on some tips and tricks, along with highlights not to be missed. Most of all, they look forward to meeting both their listeners there!



Dragonmeet is one of the most vibrant tabletop gaming conventions and the largest of it's kind in London. You'll discover a day jam-packed with things for you to do. Expect new and old games to play, industry panels, book signings, an art show, bring & buy, cosplay events, lots of new traders and big demos, tournaments and of course the chance to make new friends and hang out with fellow gamers.

Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you.



Check out our spangly new Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Episode 64 - End of Year Review 2017

It's been a funny old year. Or has it? Baz and Gaz go over what's been happening, talk about their favourites, and upcoming things that tickle their collective fancy.


Throw a copper piece into the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you. If we get enough funding we'll dish out some fanzine action too - so tell your friends.



Check out our spangly new Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Episode 65 - Rafael Chandler Interview

Author of one of the finest novels of modern times (Baz knows his stuff on this), video game designer and RPG creator Rafael Chandler joins the boys for a discussion about his works and many other fun things!


Find out about Splatterpunk horror games, the enigmatic El Degollador (The Decapitator) from Peruvian history, how the creation process works for games and novels, why spiders are your friends, and much more!

If you want to tell Rafael about your favourite Masters of the Universe figure, you can find him on G+, and you can buy many of his great books from Amazon too.


Give sacrifice to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you. At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing a fanzine - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.



Check out their Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Episode 107 - Electric Bastionland
(a.k.a You Have Shared Ownership of a Child's Musket)

Into the Odd was one of the lad's favourite independent game offerings of a couple of years ago, and now Chris McDowall is back again with his follow up, Electric Bastionland. Chris jumps in to talk about the imminent Kickstarter (early November 2019), what the design process was on the new game, what new and improved and much more. Plus! A five minute character creation session and other great content.

If you want to see Chris' Blog find out more here

Get in touch, the lads love to hear from you!
Facebook: facebook.com/thesmartparty
Twitters: twitter.com/the_smart_party
Email: thesmartparty@hotmail.com
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/thesmartparty
Patreons: patreon.com/thesmartparty

Episode 50 – Back to the Future Prepare to travel back to the times of Black & White TVs and only three channels on your TV. The Smart Party take us back to their roleplaying beginnings, through to what they’ve been playing at conventions only days ago. Guest comments, special features, Smart Party Healing Potions, […]

Episode 51 – All Rolled Up & Swedish Gaming Special Guest time once more! The Gents speak to Paul Baldowski, joint creator of the excellent All Rolled Up gaming accessories, prolific blog writer, author of the Cthulhu Hack and more! We also chat about the latest games from Sweden and try to work out why […]

Special Guest time again! We’re too good to you. This week the lads chat to Mike Mason, Line Editor for Call of Cthuhlu at Chaosium. Kult of Keepers – who or what are they? Secrets from Black Library and 40K roleplaying. What does a line developer actually do? Organised Play and being on different sides […]

Episode 56 - ShaCon All Over
(a.k.a Savage Worlds and ShaCon Convention)

The UK's inaugural Savage Worlds convention has happened and Gaz was there as Guest of Honour! Baz asks searching questions about this Savage Worlds thing as may some people haven't yet heard about it or played it. It's not Earthdawn after all.


Something weird happened with Gaz's mic this time round, but don't worry, the lads have thrashed the tech goblins and everything should be back to perfection next week!

We don't do Kickstarters for the podcasts, but we do have a Patreon. Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and help us pay for hosting and other sundries. Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content!

Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Join in some great chat on G+ with a varied RPG community.

Episode 58 - Blades in the Dark - with Iain McAllister of Giant Brain fame!

The lads have been playing the excellent Blades in the Dark by John Harper, and Baz even went out of his comfort zone, running it as a low-prep game at a convention. Hear what is so good about this game anyway, and maybe a couple of foibles.



You can find Iain's blog here: Giant Brain Game reviews, reports from UK Games Expo and more.

Help us get to Dragonmeet! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and help us pay for limousines and champagne. Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content!



Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Episode 59 - Fria Ligan Interview with Tomas Härenstam

This week, it's special guest time once again, and the the affable from The Free League came along to talk to us about Mutant Year Zero, Tales From the Loop, their new Kickstarter and more!


If you're really quick, you might just be able to get in on the Forbidden Lands Kickstarter - an open-world survival tabletop RPG with art by legendary Swedish fantasy artist Nils Gulliksson and the masterful Simon Stålenhag.



Help us get to Dragonmeet! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and help us pay for limousines and champagne. Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content.



Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

A fantastic German gaming retreat happens once a year in the old East, and Gaz was there once again. He comes back loaded with interviews, the first of which is a debrief of the event with Andrew Kenrick, former White Dwarf editor and Managing Editor at Cubicle 7 and publisher of the excellent Dead of Night rpg.



We discuss the high quality of the event, why you should play Delta Green as well as Call of Cthulhu, the advantages of multi-cultural gaming and also a few writer tips for good measure! A note on sound quality - these episodes are filmed in the field, at the mercy of strangers blundering past, people kicking tables or other things - but the content more than makes up for any of this.

What is The Thing From Finland? Click the link to find out...

Help us get more content! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting interviews with lovely people. Maybe a better mic for recording on the go! Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content.



Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

We reviewed Blades in the Dark a few weeks ago and now Baz has taken it out for a spin with his gaming group. For your delectation we present a bonus 'cast - an hour of actual play!



Become a Patreon and we can get you the character creation audio too! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting you more stuff.



Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

Special Guest and Great Old One, Sandy Petersen (creator of Call of Cthulhu and mind behind Petersen Games talks to us about his upcoming board games, getting into Call of Cthulhu and his foray into video games.



A fantastic German gaming retreat happens once a year in the old East Germany and this is one of several on-site interviews. As a result sound quality isn't 100%, but the content is!

You can find the latest Kickstarter from Petersen Games here, created by Sandy's son and fellow designer Lincoln, you get to play your part in summoning the end of the world - with whatever dubious rewards that may bring!

Help us get more content! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting interviews with lovely people. Maybe a better mic for recording on the go! Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content.



Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

Episode 61 - The Grognard Files

Baz and Gaz are joined by Chris (a.k.a Dirk the Dice) from The Grognard Files, to talk about old, comforting RPG gaming. Something eldritch occurred with Gaz's voice and he sounds like a dusty robot, but never mind that, our guest has a syrupy voice, sweet and soothing as if from the Sabden Treacle Mines.


The guys talk Grognard Files, old school stuff like Runequest, Games Workshop, 24 hour gaming advice and more! If you haven't checked out the Grognard Podcast, then you should remedy this immediately!

Help us get more content! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting interviews with lovely people. Maybe a better mic for recording on the go! Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content.



Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

You're in a German Schloss, it's 4am, and you've been drinking and eating fit to burst. What could top this off? Chatting to President of Chaosium, Rick Meints about Runequest, running Chaosium, the fan community and ducks.



Slurred words are obviously a result of being sleepy, and sound of enjoyment in the background is... well, people enjoying themselves. We recorded live and there is a bit of background noise, but the content, as always, is awesome.

Help us get more content! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting interviews with lovely people. Maybe a better mic for recording on the go! Get us to $75 and Baz will get you some extra special content.



Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

Ken Rolston, known for his work on Elder Scrolls (Morrowind and Oblivion), Paranoia and many other gaming successes, joins us for a chat about all things game related. From his long and storied history in the hobby, producing an RPG, the state of the video gaming industry, RPG tips and stories, to many amusing anecdotes, Ken was a delight to chat to.



In his own words: subversive, perverse, deconstructionist, sophisticated, mellifluous, jaded and more; Ken is a huge personality in the gaming world and has a lot of really great stuff to share. As with previous Kraken entries, we recorded live where we could and as a result incidental sounds intrude - but the content more than makes up for any of those niggles!

Help us get more content! Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep getting interviews with lovely people. Also, Gaz splashed out on a new recording device and is having to live off beans on toast. He'll waste away.



Check out our spangly new Facebook page, if that's your poison.

Email the guys

Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party

Direct download here!

Bonus Episode - Black Hack at Dragonmeet

The lands went on a jolly to Dragonmeet and have a full episode in the pipe - but along the way they spent some time in the bar chatting to David Black of The Black Hack fame, gate crashed by Chris Mc Dougal Donald Duncan Dowall from Into the Odd.



Throw in a dollar or two to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you.



Check out our spangly new Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Episode 63 - Dragonmeet Review & Interviews

After a great time as part of the #Podcastzone at Dragonmeet, the guys got together for a review of the event and also mixed in some of the interviews and brief chats they got while gadding about. Hear from OSR guys such as Luke Gearing [19:20], the Lamentations of James Raggi [28:55], the silvered tones of Patrick Stuart [34:05]; plus, what's new in Chaosium Line Editor Mike Mason's stable [39:50] and more Cthlhu style shenanigans from Paul Baldowski.



James Raggi has plenty of great stuff on his site, including Patrick's work such as Veins of the Earth.
Get your hand on Fever Swamp here.
Down Darker Trails, is available from the Chaosium site, of course.
Get yourself some lovely All Rolled Up goodies from Paul and Fil too!

Throw a copper piece into the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you. If we get enough funding we'll dish out some fanzine action too - so tell your friends.



Check out our spangly new Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Direct download here!

Episode 66 - A New Campaign 2018

It's the start of a glorious new year and the lads discuss what they've got for Christmas, how to start a new campaign, what new and exciting games they may be setting up for 2018 and other goodness. Do you remember Transhuman Space? That and more could be in the offing this year...

Give sacrifice to the Patreon fund, and we'll keep attending great events, and recording more content for you, dear listeners. Both of you. At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing a fanzine - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.



Check out their Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Episode 67 - Greg Stolze Interview

Gaming Legend Greg Stolze joins the lads for a great chat about his many games and what he's up to in 2018. Unknown Armies, Over The Edge, Godlike, Feng Shui, REIGN, Temintation Shock, short stories and novels - Greg has an impressive portfolio and plenty to talk about, so dive in and enjoy!



You can hear about about Temination Shock on Greg's Soundcloud and read much more on REIGN and his myraid other writing projects on the Stolze site.

Deliver gold pieces to the Patreon fund, and we can keep producing great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1 has landed on doorsteps all over the place, from Bermuda to Beverly Hills (seriously!). At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing an adventure for supporters too - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.




Check out their Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Episode 68 - Roleplaying Games of the 90s
(a.k.a. Gaming Like It's 1999)

Let's party like it's 1999! Why not the whole decade? The lads take a trip down memory lane to go over the 90s (which only last decade right?) and talk through some of the key products, what's still hot and what's not - and maybe which games deserve another day (or never really got the day they deserved) in the sunshine.



The episode is dedicated to Mik Reed, who was a familiar avuncular face on the UK con circuit. Sadly, after a long battle with a mystery illness, he has left us. As generous and supporting in games as he was in real life, he never spoke ill of anyone and was a great contributor to the online as well as offline community. He'll be missed.

Check out their Facebook page. Find them on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Deliver gold pieces to the Patreon fund, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1 has landed on doorsteps all over the place, from Bermuda to Beverly Hills (seriously!). At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing an adventure for supporters too - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.





You can find out more on Spaghetti Conjunction here and should definitely get yourself some Grognard Files action.

Episode 69 - Urban Fantasy with Paul Mitchener
(a.k.a. Liminal Advertising)

Special Guest time once more and the prolific Dr Mitch is on again. The lads talk about his new Urban Fantasy game, and indeed – what is Urban Fantasy? Does American Gods count? What about Young Adult novels? Liminal is out on Kickstarter with a bunch of stretch goals, all introducing different writers, Jason Behnke’s art and other frippery - giving the guys plenty to talk about. Mitch even sings at one point… but don't let that put you off!



You can find out more on the Liminal Kickstarter here and should definitely check out the 7 Hills RPG convention. Jason Behnke is a fabulous artist - you should go to his site and give him money to do stuff.

If you wanted to get your hands on Monkey, go check out D101 Games, and to understand what the Monkey TV series is… click here.

Check out the Facebook page. Find The Smart Party on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys.

Deliver gold pieces to the Patreon fund, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1 has landed on doorsteps all over the place, from Bermuda to Beverly Hills (seriously!). At time of writing we're at a sufficient level to get the boys writing a producing an adventure for supporters too - so in 2018 our loyal Patrons have even more to look forward to.

Episode 70 - Dungeons and Dragons
(a.k.a. There's this new game called D&D)

There's a new hwatness on the streets that you may not have heard of. It's called Dungeons & Dragons and has loads of editions apparently. Who knew? Baz and Gaz have managed a couple of sessions (after finally making a save versus paralysis), and what's more have been on the same side of the DM screen for once. Baz patiently talks a sceptical Gaz through the joys of the Player's Handbook and they finish off with a score out of five scimitars for the game. Join them on a magical journey, and discover the legality of Owlbears, how to fall down a mountain and how to turn a Halfling into Robin Hood.



Should the guys talk about the Dungeon Master's Guide? Monster Manuals? More? Give them your view via Facebook, on the Twitters: @the_smart_party or email the guys directly!

Deliver copper-painted platinum pieces to the Patreon fund, and you too can get great content - including a fanzine - Smartzine #1. Already a Patreon and want to appear in a scenario? Drop the guys a line via the above methods and they'll make something happen.