Episode Notes
Strap on your Shardplate and call your Spren—Episode 2 of our How to Play Stormlight Archive RPG series takes a lore-heavy dive into the Cosmere, exploring worldbuilding, Knights Radiant, and everything you need to roleplay in Roshar’s storm-tossed setting.
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Show Notes
In this second episode of the Stormlight Archive RPG series, the RPGBOT crew explores the lore of Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere and how it translates into tabletop roleplaying games. If Episode 1 was about concepts and themes, Episode 2 is all about the deep cuts—ancient oaths, cosmic forces, and worldbuilding that makes campaigns shine.
We discuss the Knights Radiant, their broken history, and the role of Heralds in shaping the moral landscape of the world. From the caste system of Alethi culture to the gender-based taboos that define everyday life, players will discover how to use social structures as storytelling tools.
The conversation covers iconic magical elements like Shardblades and Shardplate, how Spren bonds give Radiants their powers, and the dangers of the Everstorm. We also dive into Shadesmere—the Cognitive Realm—and how it offers surreal roleplaying opportunities. Finally, we examine the influence of Honor, Cultivation, and Odium, and the shocking revelation that the Parshendi are the Voidbringers, reframing the conflict of Roshar in ways ripe for campaign drama.
This is your guide to using Stormlight Archive lore in tabletop RPGs—whether you’re designing your own system, adapting 5E, or just looking for inspiration to roleplay in the Cosmere.
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