Pipes Feed Preview: Know Direction Network

  1. Upshift 57: Melee Combat In Essence20

    Sat, 27 Dec 2025 22:37:44 -0000

    Put up your dukes, Ryan and Charles are getting scrappy. In honour of Boxing Day, Charles wanted to know more about how melee combat works in Essence20. Ryan breaks down the rules, melee’s purpose in the system, some good options for melee builds, and the origin of the melee weapon rules. Listen Now! (mp3) Video […]
    <p><!--StartFragment --></p> <p>Put up your dukes, Ryan and Charles are getting scrappy.</p> <p>In honour of Boxing Day, Charles wanted to know more about how melee combat works in Essence20. Ryan breaks down the rules, melee&#8217;s purpose in the system, some good options for melee builds, and the origin of the melee weapon rules.</p> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/Upshift00057.mp3">Listen Now! (mp3)</a></h2> <h2>Video</h2> <p><a href="https://youtu.be/slvUuYcXvD8"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29838" src="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/057-cover.png" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <h1>Show Notes</h1> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As Indiana Jones demonstrated, if you had a gun, why would you use a sword? What is the importance of melee in a game with guns and lasers? </span></p> <h2>Topic: Melee in Essence 20</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Essence 20 system has a great number of Melee options across all of the worlds that it covers. What does Melee give us? </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Melee In Essence20</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Might and Finesse.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ranged attacks in melee.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Grappling. </span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why is Melee important to have?</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Every soldier carries a knife.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Critical to the settings.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">More dramatic than guns. </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">A wider range of options for players.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sometimes a sword is better.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ninjas.</span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Good examples of Melee focused characters:</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Power Rangers: Every Power Ranger.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">G.I. JOE: Storm Shadow, Jinx, Sgt. Slaughter, Big Boa. Rocky?</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Transformers: Devastator, Bludgeon. The Dinobots.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">My Little Pony: Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Big Mac. </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why are they Iconic?</span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Melee Roles</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What makes a good Melee Role?</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Perks</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Essence Score Boosts</span></li> </ul> </li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Power Rangers: </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Black</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, Green, Red</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yellow</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Path of Flame</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Purple</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">G.I. JOE: </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Commando, Renegade</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ranger, Vanguard</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Transformers: </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Analyst, Modemaster, Scientist</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Warrior</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">My Little Pony: </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spirit of Loyalty</span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Melee weapons</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The evolution of melee weapons</span></li> </ul> <h1>Shout Outs</h1> <ul> <li>G.I.Joe Headcast: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast">https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast</a> The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith</li> <li>Thank you <a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/knowdirection">Patrons</a> for keeping our lights on.</li> <li>Thank you <a href="https://wordburglar.com/">Wordburglar</a> for the use of Letters From Snake Eyes part 4.</li> </ul> <p>Although Ryan works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fupshift-57-melee-combat-in-essence20%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2057%3A%20Melee%20Combat%20In%20Essence20" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fupshift-57-melee-combat-in-essence20%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2057%3A%20Melee%20Combat%20In%20Essence20" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_google_plus" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/google_plus?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fupshift-57-melee-combat-in-essence20%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2057%3A%20Melee%20Combat%20In%20Essence20" title="Google+" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_reddit" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/reddit?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fupshift-57-melee-combat-in-essence20%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2057%3A%20Melee%20Combat%20In%20Essence20" title="Reddit" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_pinterest" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/pinterest?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fupshift-57-melee-combat-in-essence20%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2057%3A%20Melee%20Combat%20In%20Essence20" title="Pinterest" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_evernote" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/evernote?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fupshift-57-melee-combat-in-essence20%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2057%3A%20Melee%20Combat%20In%20Essence20" title="Evernote" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_delicious" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/delicious?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fupshift-57-melee-combat-in-essence20%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2057%3A%20Melee%20Combat%20In%20Essence20" title="Delicious" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fupshift-57-melee-combat-in-essence20%2F&amp;title=Upshift%2057%3A%20Melee%20Combat%20In%20Essence20" data-a2a-url="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/12/upshift-57-melee-combat-in-essence20/" data-a2a-title="Upshift 57: Melee Combat In Essence20"></a></p>

  2. Digital Divination 151 – Holiday Traditions and Holiday Monsters!

    Thu, 25 Dec 2025 11:00:22 -0000

    John, Jason, and Ron talk about some of their holiday traditions and then dive into creating a grumpy holiday monster! Listen Now! Watch Now!
    <p>John, Jason, and Ron talk about some of their holiday traditions and then dive into creating a grumpy holiday monster!</p> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/DD/DD151.mp3">Listen Now!</a></h2> <h2><a href="https://youtu.be/W_aJOptCV4k">Watch Now!</a></h2> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-151-holiday-traditions-and-holiday-monsters%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20151%20%E2%80%93%20Holiday%20Traditions%20and%20Holiday%20Monsters%21" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-151-holiday-traditions-and-holiday-monsters%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20151%20%E2%80%93%20Holiday%20Traditions%20and%20Holiday%20Monsters%21" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_google_plus" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/google_plus?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-151-holiday-traditions-and-holiday-monsters%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20151%20%E2%80%93%20Holiday%20Traditions%20and%20Holiday%20Monsters%21" title="Google+" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_reddit" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/reddit?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-151-holiday-traditions-and-holiday-monsters%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20151%20%E2%80%93%20Holiday%20Traditions%20and%20Holiday%20Monsters%21" title="Reddit" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_pinterest" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/pinterest?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-151-holiday-traditions-and-holiday-monsters%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20151%20%E2%80%93%20Holiday%20Traditions%20and%20Holiday%20Monsters%21" title="Pinterest" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_evernote" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/evernote?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-151-holiday-traditions-and-holiday-monsters%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20151%20%E2%80%93%20Holiday%20Traditions%20and%20Holiday%20Monsters%21" title="Evernote" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_delicious" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/delicious?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-151-holiday-traditions-and-holiday-monsters%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20151%20%E2%80%93%20Holiday%20Traditions%20and%20Holiday%20Monsters%21" title="Delicious" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-151-holiday-traditions-and-holiday-monsters%2F&amp;title=Digital%20Divination%20151%20%E2%80%93%20Holiday%20Traditions%20and%20Holiday%20Monsters%21" data-a2a-url="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/12/digital-divination-151-holiday-traditions-and-holiday-monsters/" data-a2a-title="Digital Divination 151 – Holiday Traditions and Holiday Monsters!"></a></p>

  3. Intrepid Heroes 174 – The Memorial (Murder in Metal City Session 8)

    Mon, 22 Dec 2025 11:00:43 -0000

    Our heroes head to a memorial for these deceased friend, only to be attacked by android terrorists! Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City! Cast: Jason Keeley – GM Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams […]
    <p>Our heroes head to a memorial for these deceased friend, only to be attacked by android terrorists!</p> <p>Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!</p> <p>Cast:<br /> Jason Keeley &#8211; GM<br /> Alex Speidel &#8211; Patsy Van Dyne<br /> Isis Wozniakowska &#8211; Voss Seltee<br /> Jocelyn Hamilton &#8211; Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)<br /> John Godek &#8211; Xabi Fraglorious<br /> Rue Dickey &#8211; Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)<br /> Tim Nightengale &#8211; Dexter Rayne</p> <p>Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast</p> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/IH-Actual-Play/EP174MIMCS9.mp3">Listen Now!(mp3)</a></h2> <h2><a href="https://youtu.be/CI_mEVWc5_c">Watch Now!(mp4)</a></h2> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-174-the-memorial-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20174%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Memorial%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-174-the-memorial-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20174%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Memorial%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_google_plus" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/google_plus?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-174-the-memorial-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20174%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Memorial%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Google+" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_reddit" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/reddit?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-174-the-memorial-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20174%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Memorial%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Reddit" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_pinterest" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/pinterest?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-174-the-memorial-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20174%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Memorial%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Pinterest" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_evernote" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/evernote?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-174-the-memorial-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20174%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Memorial%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Evernote" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_delicious" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/delicious?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-174-the-memorial-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20174%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Memorial%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Delicious" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-174-the-memorial-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;title=Intrepid%20Heroes%20174%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Memorial%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" data-a2a-url="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/12/intrepid-heroes-174-the-memorial-murder-in-metal-city-session-8/" data-a2a-title="Intrepid Heroes 174 – The Memorial (Murder in Metal City Session 8)"></a></p>

  4. Know Direction Beyond 103: Module and Adventure Path Review

    Wed, 17 Dec 2025 14:39:34 -0000

    Alex and James give their spoiler-free thoughts on Starfinder 2e’s first published adventures, Murder In Metal City and Guilt of the Grave World. Recorded live on Twitch. Listen Now! (mp3)
    <p>Alex and James give their spoiler-free thoughts on Starfinder 2e&#8217;s first published adventures, <a href="https://store.paizo.com/starfinder-2e-murder-in-metal-city-deluxe/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Murder In Metal City</a> and <a href="https://store.paizo.com/starfinder-adventure-guilt-of-the-grave-world/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Guilt of the Grave World</a>.</p> <p>Recorded live on Twitch.</p> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/KDB102.mp3">Listen Now! (mp3)</a></h2> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fknow-direction-beyond-103-module-and-adventure-path-review%2F&amp;linkname=Know%20Direction%20Beyond%20103%3A%20Module%20and%20Adventure%20Path%20Review" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fknow-direction-beyond-103-module-and-adventure-path-review%2F&amp;linkname=Know%20Direction%20Beyond%20103%3A%20Module%20and%20Adventure%20Path%20Review" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_google_plus" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/google_plus?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fknow-direction-beyond-103-module-and-adventure-path-review%2F&amp;linkname=Know%20Direction%20Beyond%20103%3A%20Module%20and%20Adventure%20Path%20Review" title="Google+" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_reddit" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/reddit?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fknow-direction-beyond-103-module-and-adventure-path-review%2F&amp;linkname=Know%20Direction%20Beyond%20103%3A%20Module%20and%20Adventure%20Path%20Review" title="Reddit" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_pinterest" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/pinterest?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fknow-direction-beyond-103-module-and-adventure-path-review%2F&amp;linkname=Know%20Direction%20Beyond%20103%3A%20Module%20and%20Adventure%20Path%20Review" title="Pinterest" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_evernote" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/evernote?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fknow-direction-beyond-103-module-and-adventure-path-review%2F&amp;linkname=Know%20Direction%20Beyond%20103%3A%20Module%20and%20Adventure%20Path%20Review" title="Evernote" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_delicious" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/delicious?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fknow-direction-beyond-103-module-and-adventure-path-review%2F&amp;linkname=Know%20Direction%20Beyond%20103%3A%20Module%20and%20Adventure%20Path%20Review" title="Delicious" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fknow-direction-beyond-103-module-and-adventure-path-review%2F&amp;title=Know%20Direction%20Beyond%20103%3A%20Module%20and%20Adventure%20Path%20Review" data-a2a-url="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/12/know-direction-beyond-103-module-and-adventure-path-review/" data-a2a-title="Know Direction Beyond 103: Module and Adventure Path Review"></a></p>

  5. Game Design Unboxed 130: Three Chapters

    Tue, 16 Dec 2025 13:14:06 -0000

    In episode 130 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with game designer Joe Hout about his fairytale-themed trick-taking game, 3 Chapters, accessibility in gaming, and his design journey. Joe shares how his path into game design began by tweaking games he loved and then took off after completing a passion-project game he self-published via Kickstarter. […]
    <div data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody"> <p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">In episode 130 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with game designer <strong>Joe Hout</strong> about his fairytale-themed trick-taking game, 3 Chapters, accessibility in gaming, and his design journey.</p> <p>Joe shares how his path into game design began by tweaking games he loved and then took off after completing a passion-project game he self-published via Kickstarter. We break apart 3 Chapters and how the creation of the game was a culmination of favorite mechanics and key moments from various games he’s designed over the years.</p> <p>This episode covers common barriers to entry in board games, from rule overload to games that are difficult to teach, and why familiar themes like fairytales can make learning feel intuitive. Joe and Danielle discuss how storytelling can help teach and pitch games &#8211; especially trick-taking games &#8211; which can feel frustrating or intimidating to players who are new to certain mechanics.</p> <p>Joe talks about the joy of hearing players say, “let’s play again,” the value of sticky rules that make it easy to return to a game after time away, and why a game’s weight matters less than its intended audience and purpose. We also discuss learning through design podcasts and tools, collaborating with great publishers, and how those relationships open doors across the tabletop industry.</p> </div> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/GDU_E130_3_Chapters.mp3">Listen Now! (mp3)</a></h2> <h3>Featuring:</h3> <p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Joe Hout &#8211; Guest</p> <p>Danielle Reynolds &#8211; Host</p> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-130-three-chapters%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20130%3A%20Three%20Chapters" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-130-three-chapters%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20130%3A%20Three%20Chapters" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_google_plus" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/google_plus?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-130-three-chapters%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20130%3A%20Three%20Chapters" title="Google+" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_reddit" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/reddit?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-130-three-chapters%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20130%3A%20Three%20Chapters" title="Reddit" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_pinterest" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/pinterest?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-130-three-chapters%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20130%3A%20Three%20Chapters" title="Pinterest" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_evernote" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/evernote?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-130-three-chapters%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20130%3A%20Three%20Chapters" title="Evernote" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_delicious" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/delicious?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-130-three-chapters%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20130%3A%20Three%20Chapters" title="Delicious" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-130-three-chapters%2F&amp;title=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20130%3A%20Three%20Chapters" data-a2a-url="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/12/game-design-unboxed-130-three-chapters/" data-a2a-title="Game Design Unboxed 130: Three Chapters"></a></p>

  6. Upshift 56: Questions About Essence20 Core Rulebooks

    Fri, 12 Dec 2025 20:05:04 -0000

    Listener ‪@jasonsumma1530‬ asked what Ryan would change about the Core Rulebooks if Renegade Game Studios released 2.0 versions. This is NOT an announcement that Essence20 2.0 is a thing, just speculation with the benefit of hindsight on the ideal layout of an Essence20 Core Rulebook. Listen Now! (mp3) Video Show Notes This topic was suggested […]
    <p><!--StartFragment --></p> <p class="pf0"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" dir="auto">Listener </span><span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" dir="auto"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" tabindex="0" href="https://www.youtube.com/@jasonsumma1530" target="">‪@jasonsumma1530‬</a></span><span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" dir="auto"> asked what Ryan would change about the Core Rulebooks if Renegade Game Studios released 2.0 versions. This is NOT an announcement that Essence20 2.0 is a thing, just speculation with the benefit of hindsight on the ideal layout of an Essence20 Core Rulebook.</span></p> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/Upshift00056.mp3">Listen Now! (mp3)</a></h2> <h2>Video</h2> <p><iframe width="768" height="432" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9XZRiGUkT3I?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen title="What Makes A Core Rulebook? - Upshift 56"></iframe></p> <h1>Show Notes</h1> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This topic was suggested by @jasonsumma1530 on YouTube, who asked: </span></p> <p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">“IF you could do a CRB 2.0 for any of the original three, what would you change? Would it be possible to condense it all into one slightly larger book since most of the rules are pretty much the same? Would it be better to do something similar in the line of DnD where you have a GMB (Game Manager Book) and CB (Character Book) with all of the updates in each</span></i><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">”</span></i></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Topic: The Core Rulebook 2.0  </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Essence 20 system has been learning, maturing, and bringing everything that it has learned into its new products. If Ryan was going to apply everything that he’s learned to developing a CRB 2.0, what changes would he make and how would that improve the GM and Player experience. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What is a Core Rulebook and what importance does it hold to a gaming system? </span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Set the tone </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Establish the setting </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Establish credentials </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Explain the rules</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Provide options</span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Redesigning the CRB</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Goals for a redesign</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What would be your goals for a redesign?</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">One Core Rule book or one for each Property?</span></li> </ul> </li> </ul> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">One chapter at a time</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 1: Introduction</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Foreword</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Introductory Essay</span></li> </ul> </li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 2: Essence20 Essentials</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What Is An RPG</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Essence20 Essentials</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Character Creation</span></li> </ul> </li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 3-5: Influences, Origins, and Roles</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">One chapter for each of the games big three options, in the order that makes the most sense for the setting. </span></li> </ul> </li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 6: Essences, Defenses, and Skills</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Include rules for Skills Tests</span></li> </ul> </li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 7: General Perks</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 8: Equipment</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 9: Setting Specific Chapter</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Zords, Converting, Magic, etc. Possibly more than one chapter.  </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Contacts</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Factions</span></li> </ul> </li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 10: Conflict</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Combat</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Challenges</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stress</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Exploration</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Size and stuff</span></li> </ul> </li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 11: For Game Masters</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What is a scene? </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="3"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Telling a story</span></li> </ul> </li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 12: Threats</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chapter 13: Adventure</span></li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h1>Shout Outs</h1> <ul> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Latest Essential Builds: <a href="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/12/essential-builds-john-cena/">John Cena</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Next: You tell Ryan!</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Eleven (Stranger Things)</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Benoit Blanc (Knives Out)</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Klaus (</span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Klaus_(comics)"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Klaus</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">)</span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Maester Aelix’s Transformers chargen videos on YouTube: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@MaesterAelix"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/@MaesterAelix</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">G.I.Joe Headcast: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast"><span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith </span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Thank you <a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/knowdirection">Patrons</a> for keeping our lights on.</span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Thank you <a href="https://wordburglar.com/">Wordburglar</a> for the use of Letters From Snake Eyes part 4. </span></li> </ul> <p>Although Ryan works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fupshift-56-questions-about-essence20-rulebooks%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2056%3A%20Questions%20About%20Essence20%20Core%20Rulebooks" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" 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  7. Digital Divination 150 – The Past and Future of Digital Divination

    Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:00:24 -0000

    John, Jason, and Ron reflect on the past and discuss the future of Digital Divination as we achieve our 150th episode Listen Now! Watch Now!
    <p>John, Jason, and Ron reflect on the past and discuss the future of Digital Divination as we achieve our 150th episode</p> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/DD/DD150.mp3">Listen Now!</a></h2> <h2><a href="https://youtu.be/vZAWFfzTksA">Watch Now!</a></h2> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-150-the-past-and-future-of-digital-divination%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20150%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Past%20and%20Future%20of%20Digital%20Divination" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-150-the-past-and-future-of-digital-divination%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20150%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Past%20and%20Future%20of%20Digital%20Divination" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_google_plus" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/google_plus?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-150-the-past-and-future-of-digital-divination%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20150%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Past%20and%20Future%20of%20Digital%20Divination" title="Google+" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_reddit" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/reddit?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-150-the-past-and-future-of-digital-divination%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20150%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Past%20and%20Future%20of%20Digital%20Divination" title="Reddit" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_pinterest" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/pinterest?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-150-the-past-and-future-of-digital-divination%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20150%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Past%20and%20Future%20of%20Digital%20Divination" title="Pinterest" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_evernote" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/evernote?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-150-the-past-and-future-of-digital-divination%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20150%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Past%20and%20Future%20of%20Digital%20Divination" title="Evernote" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_delicious" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/delicious?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-150-the-past-and-future-of-digital-divination%2F&amp;linkname=Digital%20Divination%20150%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Past%20and%20Future%20of%20Digital%20Divination" title="Delicious" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fdigital-divination-150-the-past-and-future-of-digital-divination%2F&amp;title=Digital%20Divination%20150%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Past%20and%20Future%20of%20Digital%20Divination" data-a2a-url="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/12/digital-divination-150-the-past-and-future-of-digital-divination/" data-a2a-title="Digital Divination 150 – The Past and Future of Digital Divination"></a></p>

  8. Intrepid Heroes 173 – The Casino (Murder in Metal City Session 8)

    Mon, 08 Dec 2025 11:00:12 -0000

    Our heroes head to the Magenta Orbital Amusement Platform in search of an old friend. Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City! Cast: Jason Keeley – GM Alex Speidel – Patsy Van Dyne Isis Wozniakowska – Voss Seltee Jocelyn Hamilton – Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams) John […]
    <p>Our heroes head to the Magenta Orbital Amusement Platform in search of an old friend.</p> <p>Join our Intrepid Heroes as they solve the mystery of the Murder in Metal City!</p> <p>Cast:<br /> Jason Keeley &#8211; GM<br /> Alex Speidel &#8211; Patsy Van Dyne<br /> Isis Wozniakowska &#8211; Voss Seltee<br /> Jocelyn Hamilton &#8211; Together in Electric Dreams (Dreams)<br /> John Godek &#8211; Xabi Fraglorious<br /> Rue Dickey &#8211; Whose Boughs Are Lit Within (Boughs)<br /> Tim Nightengale &#8211; Dexter Rayne</p> <p>Starfinder 2nd Edition Actual Play Podcast</p> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/IH-Actual-Play/EP173MIMCS8.mp3">Listen Now!(mp3)</a></h2> <h2><a href="https://youtu.be/Zx5kJd22Z1g">Watch Now!(mp4)</a></h2> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-173-the-casino-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20173%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Casino%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-173-the-casino-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20173%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Casino%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_google_plus" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/google_plus?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-173-the-casino-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20173%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Casino%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Google+" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_reddit" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/reddit?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-173-the-casino-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20173%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Casino%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Reddit" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_pinterest" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/pinterest?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-173-the-casino-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20173%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Casino%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Pinterest" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_evernote" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/evernote?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-173-the-casino-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20173%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Casino%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Evernote" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_delicious" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/delicious?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-173-the-casino-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;linkname=Intrepid%20Heroes%20173%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Casino%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" title="Delicious" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fintrepid-heroes-173-the-casino-murder-in-metal-city-session-8%2F&amp;title=Intrepid%20Heroes%20173%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Casino%20%28Murder%20in%20Metal%20City%20Session%208%29" data-a2a-url="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/12/intrepid-heroes-173-the-casino-murder-in-metal-city-session-8/" data-a2a-title="Intrepid Heroes 173 – The Casino (Murder in Metal City Session 8)"></a></p>

  9. Game Design Unboxed 129: Gelt Galore

    Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:37:43 -0000

    In this festive episode 129 of Game Design Unboxed, we chat with sister duo Anya and Irina Kagan – game designers and the founders of Gifts Galore – about their Hanukkah-themed party game, Gelt Galore. They talk about how magical childhood traditions inspired them as adults to bring new energy to holiday gatherings and how a […]
    <div data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody"> <p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">In this festive episode 129 of <i>Game Design Unboxed</i>, we chat with sister duo <strong>Anya and Irina Kagan</strong> &#8211; game designers and the founders of Gifts Galore &#8211; about their Hanukkah-themed party game, Gelt Galore.</p> <p>They talk about how magical childhood traditions inspired them as adults to bring new energy to holiday gatherings and how a simple homemade game — originally crafted from post-its, stickers, and family trivia — turned into a full-fledged board game.</p> <p>We discuss several unique design challenges including how to compile authentic and accurate historical info for trivia questions and how to strike the right balance between questions that are easy/fun and questions that are deep or educational.</p> <p>The sisters also share how they designed Gelt Galore to be accessible and inclusive by using pictures along with colors (considering colorblind accessibility), designing mechanics that work for players of all ages and mobility capabilities, the “bribes” that help them attract playtesters (like candy or pizza), the inviting game design community in Kalamazoo, Michigan, stories of little-known Hanukkah heroines, and the age-old debate of the superior latke topping. Is it sour cream or applesauce? You decide!</p> </div> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/GDU_E129_GeltGalore.mp3">Listen Now! (mp3)</a></h2> <h3>Featuring:</h3> <p data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Anya and Irina Kagan &#8211; Guests</p> <p>Danielle Reynolds &#8211; Host</p> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-129-gelt-galore%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20129%3A%20Gelt%20Galore" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-129-gelt-galore%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20129%3A%20Gelt%20Galore" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_google_plus" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/google_plus?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-129-gelt-galore%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20129%3A%20Gelt%20Galore" title="Google+" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_reddit" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/reddit?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-129-gelt-galore%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20129%3A%20Gelt%20Galore" title="Reddit" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_pinterest" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/pinterest?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-129-gelt-galore%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20129%3A%20Gelt%20Galore" title="Pinterest" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_evernote" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/evernote?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-129-gelt-galore%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20129%3A%20Gelt%20Galore" title="Evernote" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_delicious" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/delicious?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-129-gelt-galore%2F&amp;linkname=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20129%3A%20Gelt%20Galore" title="Delicious" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fgame-design-unboxed-129-gelt-galore%2F&amp;title=Game%20Design%20Unboxed%20129%3A%20Gelt%20Galore" data-a2a-url="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/12/game-design-unboxed-129-gelt-galore/" data-a2a-title="Game Design Unboxed 129: Gelt Galore"></a></p>

  10. Upshift 55: What (Little) We Know About Power Rangers

    Fri, 28 Nov 2025 19:14:07 -0000

    Ryan doesn’t know Power Rangers. Neither does Charles. But here they are, trying to talk about the Power Rangers RPG. Listen Now! (mp3) Video Show Notes Essential Builds – Dynamo Follow Ryan on Instagram and Bluesky, and check out his Budo-A-Day project. G.I.Joe Headcast: https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith The Universe Awaiting, Charles’ […]
    <p><!--StartFragment --></p> <p class="pf0">Ryan doesn&#8217;t know Power Rangers. Neither does Charles. But here they are, trying to talk about the Power Rangers RPG.</p> <h2><a href="http://knowdirectionpodcast.com/podcasts/Upshift00055.mp3">Listen Now! (mp3)</a></h2> <h2>Video</h2> <p><iframe width="768" height="432" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JqqIZQ2woZk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen title="What (Little) We Know About Power Rangers - Upshift 55"></iframe></p> <h1>Show Notes</h1> <ul> <li aria-level="1"><a href="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/11/essential-builds-dynamo/">Essential Builds – Dynamo</a></li> <li aria-level="1">Follow Ryan on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kd.ryan.costello/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/costello.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, and check out his <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/search/keyword/?q=%23budoaday" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Budo-A-Day</a> project.</li> <li aria-level="1">G.I.Joe Headcast: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast">https://www.youtube.com/@G.I.Joe_Headcast</a> The Energon Protocols with Erik Smith</li> <li aria-level="1"><a href="http://theuniverseawaiting.ca" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Universe Awaiting</a>, Charles&#8217; new retro toy and RPG company, is going to be at the Kitchener/Waterloo Toy show on November 23rd.</li> </ul> <p>Although Ryan works for Renegade Game Studios, this podcast and the network that hosts it are not affiliated with Renegade Game Studios.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a class="a2a_button_facebook" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F11%2Fupshift-55-what-little-we-know-about-power-rangers%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2055%3A%20What%20%28Little%29%20We%20Know%20About%20Power%20Rangers" title="Facebook" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F11%2Fupshift-55-what-little-we-know-about-power-rangers%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2055%3A%20What%20%28Little%29%20We%20Know%20About%20Power%20Rangers" title="Twitter" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_google_plus" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/google_plus?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F11%2Fupshift-55-what-little-we-know-about-power-rangers%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2055%3A%20What%20%28Little%29%20We%20Know%20About%20Power%20Rangers" title="Google+" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_reddit" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/reddit?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F11%2Fupshift-55-what-little-we-know-about-power-rangers%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2055%3A%20What%20%28Little%29%20We%20Know%20About%20Power%20Rangers" title="Reddit" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_pinterest" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/pinterest?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F11%2Fupshift-55-what-little-we-know-about-power-rangers%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2055%3A%20What%20%28Little%29%20We%20Know%20About%20Power%20Rangers" title="Pinterest" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_evernote" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/evernote?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F11%2Fupshift-55-what-little-we-know-about-power-rangers%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2055%3A%20What%20%28Little%29%20We%20Know%20About%20Power%20Rangers" title="Evernote" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_button_delicious" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/delicious?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F11%2Fupshift-55-what-little-we-know-about-power-rangers%2F&amp;linkname=Upshift%2055%3A%20What%20%28Little%29%20We%20Know%20About%20Power%20Rangers" title="Delicious" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fknowdirectionpodcast.com%2F2025%2F11%2Fupshift-55-what-little-we-know-about-power-rangers%2F&amp;title=Upshift%2055%3A%20What%20%28Little%29%20We%20Know%20About%20Power%20Rangers" data-a2a-url="https://knowdirectionpodcast.com/2025/11/upshift-55-what-little-we-know-about-power-rangers/" data-a2a-title="Upshift 55: What (Little) We Know About Power Rangers"></a></p>