Episode 13 (July 2007)

Episode 13 (July 2007)
Mailbag, Part 2

Don't just read about D&D's latest news and announcements -- listen to them as well! And where better to find inside information than from the very halls of Wizards of the Coast? Presenting Episode 13: Mailbag, Part 2!

This episode, we answer yet more questions from the D&D Mailbag, as solicited from players throughout the past several podcasts. Our thanks to everyone who submitted questions, and be sure to continue to send your questions to dndfeedback@wizards.com!

Episode 13

00:55: Ben asks: Is it possible to enjoy being a player after being a DM?

If you’re visiting Milwaukee, you might well want to check out the Safe House... if, that is, you can find it.

04:50: John asks: How can I encourage my players to develop more personality for their characters?

More on roleplaying can also be found in the Save My Game: Encouraging Roleplaying article.

11:05: Ben asks: What are the elements of the current rule set that you’d most like to get rid of?

Of course, for advice on how to play a bard, there’s the Characters with Class: Bards with Class article.
For more on legendary items, check out the Magic Item Compendium.
Mike did tackle monster design (or rather, re-design, in the Design & Development: Monster Makeover series, with the rust monster, ogre mage, and beholder.

16:20: Cody asks: What are your recommendations for the best physical space for gaming?

Of course, versions of the "ultimate gaming table" have also been invented by crafty DMs.

21:50: John asks: With so many options, do you still play straight PHB classes?

23:50: Alfie asks: Do you think D&D has more potential for fun with less experienced players?

Self-organizing forms of life, while using all of the pieces of the game but in your hybrid way, sounds a lot like Calvinball.

27:15 Brent asks: Do you play in any of the official campaign settings? Also, do you implement iconic characters (e.g., Drizzt)?

Elminster last appeared in Elminster’s Daughter.

30:55: G. asks: What is it like working for Wizards of the Coast?

And if you’d like to find out what it’s like working here firsthand, check out the current listings on our job page.

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David Noonan is a designer/developer for Wizards of the Coast. His credits include co-designing Dungeon Master's Guide II, Heroes of Battle, and numerous products for the Eberron campaign setting. He lives in Washington state with his wife, son, and daughter.

Mike Mearls is the dark hope of chaotic evil: young, handsome, well endowed in abilities and aptitudes, thoroughly wicked, depraved, and capricious. Whomever harms Mearls had better not brag of it in the presence of one who will inform the Demoness Lolth!

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