Shane Plays - LPs and Interviews

[sstacks]

felipepepe just announced an expanded version of the CRPG Book Project.

The CRPG Book Expanded Edition brings 152 pages extra pages, 56 new game reviews, several new articles, a lot of revised content and a glorious cover art gallery! The total: 680 pages!

You can freely download it here:
https://crpgbook.wordpress.com/2022/02/07/update-29-the-expanded-edition-is-released/

 

[sstacks]

I recently interviewed game designer Bruce Nesmith.

About 75% of the episode focuses on his tabletop RPG design work at TSR, but there's also some discussion about TSR's early forway into producing their own computer games (they managed to put 3 out) as well as discussion of his time on the Elder Scrolls at Bethesda, including his role as lead designer for Skyrim.

Shane Plays Geek Talk Episode #255 – 4/15/2022

RPG designer Bruce Nesmith discusses his career as a TSR veteran (Ravenloft 2E, Gamma World 4E, Dragonlance), Elder Scrolls Skyrim lead designer, and now novelist. Bruce’s first day at TSR was an experience, to say the least. What does he consider his biggest achievement while at TSR? Bruce’s opinion of TSR under Gary Gygax versus Lorraine Williams and what he considers TSR’s “glory days”. What was his job description as lead designer on The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim? Why did Oblivion have a big celebrity but Skyrim didn’t? Bruce was years ahead of the game when it came to his revamp of the Armor Class system for Gamma World 4E. What do you do when you want to play D&D but you don’t have the rules? You invent it, including simulating the d20 with d6s. Writing for games versus writing prose. Bruce’s Loki in his novel Mischief Maker is not the MCU Loki. Shane laments the lack of a werecow in TSR publications.

Podcast link:
https://shaneplays.com/bruce-nesmith-rpg-designer-tsr-ravenloft-gamma-world-skyrim/

YouTube link: (just audio, no video)

 

[rusty_shackleford]

"Everyone at TSR disliked negative armor class ... but it wasn't something we could change"

:interesting:

Interesting insights into Bethesda, btw.
"Todd doesn't believe in people who are just managers. Managers are people who are doing work and some management."

 

[sstacks]

In case you don't see it posted elsewhere, Matt Barton has posted his interview with Bruce Nesmith:

 

[sstacks]

Hi, all It's been a while, but then again it's been a while since I've done a CRPG-related podcast episode. You may have heard that Neal Hallford is doing some cool events this year for the Betrayal at Krondor 30th Anniversary. He dropped by the show to talk about BAK history and gave some juicy insider details related to the sequel drama. He also talks about is anniversary events. If you listen, I hope you enjoy it!

Infinitron
felipepepe

Podcast
https://shaneplays.com/betrayal-at-...ary-neal-hallford-fan-film-challenge-podcast/

YouTube Version (just audio, no video)


Hey there, friend! If you're into classic games and fascinating stories, you'll love our latest podcast episode featuring the multi-talented Neal Hallford. Join us as he shares insider details on the renowned Betrayal at Krondor CRPG, and get excited about the game's 30th-anniversary celebrations!

This innovative game was truly ahead of its time, and Neal takes us on a journey to explore the bold choices that made it such a hit. Discover the game element that needed a makeover but ultimately turned out even better!

Did you know that Neal's incredible work on the game led Raymond E. Feist to include it in his iconic Riftwar Saga novel series? Hear about their collaboration and get an insider's perspective on Feist's impressive business acumen.

But wait, there's more! Brace yourself for some juicy behind-the-scenes stories of the BAK sequel drama, complete with corporate antics and a dash of Machiavellian mischief. You won't want to miss it!

Neal also shares his thoughts on his Krondor Remastered project and reveals what he'd do differently if he had the chance to remake the game today. Plus, find out which lessons from his Swords & Circuitry game development textbook still hold true and what he'd update for the modern age.

And if you're a budding filmmaker, get inspired by the Betrayal at Krondor Fan Film Challenge, where even your trusty smartphone can be your ticket to success!

Lastly, uncover a surprising connection between Betrayal at Krondor and the legendary BioWare. Tune in now for an enthralling and engaging conversation that's sure to spark your curiosity!