THE STORMLIGHT ARCHIVE RPG – How to Play Part 1: Concepts and Themes – RPGBOT.Podcast S5E102

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Episode Notes

Snacks, Ghosts, and Shardblades: How to Play Stormlight Archive RPG (Part I)”
Because nothing says “epic fantasy” like kettle chips, Cajun cuisine, and the looming threat of narrative-driven permanent injuries.

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In this first installment of How to Play the Stormlight Archive RPG, the hosts take listeners on a whirlwind ride from snack aisle recommendations to Southern Gothic ghost stories before plunging headfirst into the mechanics of the Stormlight RPG.

The episode opens with food talk—everything from dill pickle kettle chips and Louisiana’s famous Zapp’s Voodoo chips to gas station fried chicken and boudin blanc. With a dash of humor and cultural flavor, the conversation eases into spooky tales of Savannah and New Orleans before pivoting into the main course: the Stormlight RPG’s unique mechanics.

Listeners get an in-depth look at how the game emphasizes both strategic combat and narrative storytelling. From the mysterious plot die to heartbeat-linked Shardblade summoning, the mechanics elevate roleplay by weaving tension and consequence into every roll. Combat in Stormlight plays out with distinctive pacing—10-second rounds, strategic positioning, and careful maneuvering—creating a rhythm that rewards tactical play.

The hosts also break down status effects, the permanence of injuries, and the recovery mechanics that keep characters on the razor’s edge of risk and survival. The balance between crunch and narrative immersion is front and center, showing how this RPG captures the scope and stakes of Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere setting.

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Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Randall James

Producer Dan