Show Notes
If you’ve ever wondered why your dungeon feels less like a terrifying crawl through the dark and more like a grayscale video game, this episode shines a light on everything wrong—and weird—about darkvision.
In this remastered and updated episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, the hosts revisit one of their most debated topics: how vision mechanics function in tabletop RPGs, especially Dungeons & Dragons and Pathfinder. They dive deep into how different systems handle lighting, visibility, and the ever-confusing rules around darkvision. The episode unpacks the practical and narrative implications of light and darkness on exploration, combat, and roleplay—while also poking fun at the sheer absurdity of adventurers who can see in total darkness but never think to bring a lantern. Whether you’re a rules lawyer, a narrative-driven GM, or just someone who’s tired of arguing over torches, this episode casts a light on what works, what doesn’t, and how to make vision mechanics better at your table.
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How to Find Us:
In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net
Tyler Kamstra
Ash Ely
- Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
- Join Ash’s West Marches-style PF2 Game
- Bluesky: GravenAshes
- YouTube: @ashravenmedia
Randall James
- AmateurJack.com
- Bluesky: @JackAmateur
- Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale
Producer Dan
If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It’s a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.
If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, direct access to the RPGBOT.Team on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us every week for live-streamed recordings.
Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ
How to Find Us:
In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net
Tyler Kamstra
Ash Ely
- Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
- Join Ash’s West Marches-style PF2 Game
- Bluesky: GravenAshes
- YouTube: @ashravenmedia
Randall James
- AmateurJack.com
- Bluesky: @JackAmateur
- Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale
