RPG Blokes

In this episode, we’re continuing character generation — getting into the finer details that bring each character to life. We’re choosing star signs, picking out talents, and assigning skills. It’s the nuts and bolts of the character sheet, but still full of laughs and light conversation.

This is what it really sounds like to build your first RPG character around the table — no pressure, no jargon, just a bunch of people figuring it...

In this episode, we’re continuing our character generation. Last time, we laid the groundwork — and the rough shape of who these people are. This time, we’re diving a bit deeper.

It’s still casual and unfiltered — the sort of conversation you’d have round the table at your first proper session.

If you’re new to the hobby, this is a chance to hear how characters evolve from a few lines on a sheet into something with a bit of life to i...

Thinking of trying out tabletop roleplaying games but not sure where to start? This episode kicks off our Session Zero — a relaxed, real-time walkthrough of what it’s like to sit down for your first ever game night.

We begin with character creation: building our alter egos from scratch, chatting through choices, and setting the scene for the adventure ahead. It’s unscripted, down-to-earth, and designed for anyone new to the hobby.

If...

In this season finale of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry look back on their journey through Season 1 with humour, honesty, and a healthy dose of self-deprecation. They revisit standout episodes, share behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and reflect on the show’s aim to welcome new players while still offering insight for veterans.

The conversation ranges from personal highlights—like the unexpectedly popular First Session E...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the often-overlooked topic of age in tabletop gaming, challenging the idea that Dungeons & Dragons is just for the young. They share their own stories of entering or re-entering the hobby later in life and celebrate the richness older players bring to the table.

The conversation highlights the camaraderie, creativity, and connection found in RPGs—regardle...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry tackle one of Dungeons & Dragons’ most iconic (and often misunderstood) mechanics: the alignment system. From lawful good to chaotic evil, the team breaks down each of the nine alignments, sharing how they influence gameplay, storytelling, and party dynamics.

The conversation highlights common pitfalls and player experiences—like the rigidity of lawful good in mo...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the world of tabletop RPGs beyond Dungeons & Dragons, offering insights for middle-aged newcomers eager to expand their gaming horizons. The discussion covers standout indie titles like The One Ring, Earthdawn, and Call of Cthulhu, emphasizing fresh mechanics, immersive lore, and alternative genre experiences.

They delve into horror and survival games whe...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, the team dives into the world of Dungeons & Dragons—often called the perfect starting point for newcomers to tabletop RPGs.

Stephen, the D&D veteran, shares insights from playing every edition since the 80s, while John highlights how the polished resources make the game approachable. Barry, with five years’ experience, reflects on overcoming the nerves of stepping into the Dungeon Master role.

T...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, the team explores the different styles of roleplaying games, helping middle-aged newcomers find the right fit for their first adventures.

Mark, John, and Barry kick things off with sandbox games, where player freedom drives the story. John champions this open style, while Barry notes the challenge of keeping players engaged. They move on to dungeon crawls and hack-and-slash games—Barry’s favourite—for ...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, the crew tackles the mysteries of being a Dungeon Master, exploring the essential role this figure plays in tabletop RPGs. Whether you're new to gaming or just curious about what goes on behind the DM screen, there's valuable insight here for everyone.

Mark, Stephen, John, and Barry share their seasoned experiences, offering perspectives from both sides of the table. Stephen talks about adapt...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, the crew dives into the essentials of table etiquette, offering insider tips on how to enhance the group experience in tabletop RPGs. Whether you’re new to role-playing or a seasoned player, there’s something here for everyone looking to strengthen their social game at the table. The hosts cover key aspects like punctuality, respecting others’ turns, and when it’s appropriate to chime in, alongside ti...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, we help new players take their first big step into the world of Dungeons & Dragons—creating their first character.

Where do you start? Do you need a backstory? Should you plan every detail, or just roll the dice and see what happens? The Blokes are here to guide you through the process, making character creation less intimidating and a lot more fun.

We kick things off with the basics—race, class, ba...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, we continue our guide for new and returning players with First Session Essentials Part 2. This time, we focus on what other paraphernalia you might need to bring to the gaming table and what you can safely leave behind.

We start with the essentials—yes, you’ll need dice, but don’t panic if you don’t have your own set (yet). Digital vs. paper character sheets? Both have their place, though the Blokes ha...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, we explore what new and returning players need to know before their first RPG session. This is Part 1 of a two-part series designed to ease you into the world of tabletop gaming and help you make the most of your first adventure.

We dive into the importance of preparation, from understanding basic rules to deciding whether you need a rulebook at all. Do you need to study the lore or have a character fu...

In this episode of RPG Blokes, Mark, Barry, Jon, and Stephen tackle a fundamental question for newcomers and seasoned players alike: “Do you have the time to play an RPG?” With work, family, and life’s responsibilities, it’s not always easy to carve out time for hobbies.

The Blokes discuss the realities of balancing work schedules, commuting, and family commitments with the time demands of gaming. They explore session lengths, campa...

Online or in-person—where should you play? In this episode of RPG Blokes, Mark, Barry, Jon, and Stephen weigh in on the great debate, offering insights from decades of gaming experience. Whether you’re a newcomer wondering where to start or a seasoned player navigating modern gaming trends, this discussion has something for you.

First up: online gaming. The Blokes share their experiences with digital platforms like Roll20 and Foundr...

Who says adventure is just for the young? In this second episode, the RPG Blokes—Mark, Barry, Jon, and Stephen—are here to prove that role-playing games are tailor-made for us slightly older (and maybe a bit wiser) adventurers. Drawing on their combined century of gaming experience, they’ll show you how RPGs aren’t just “games” but epic tools for hitting those core emotional sweet spots: security, connection, achievement, purpose—y...

Welcome to the very first episode of RPG Blokes! We’re four middle-aged mates from London, UK, with a shared passion for tabletop role-playing games (RPGs). We believe this hobby has the power to bring endless joy, creativity, and connection to people like us—whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, 60s or beyond, It's a great way to remain young at heart.

For years, we’ve been introducing people to RPGs in our local community, while r...