The Vintage RPG Podcast

207
Games #83

Join Stu Horvath and John McGuire as they delve into their favorite tabletop roleplaying games from the past, present and future!

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Recent Reviews
  • dornsown
    A great way to delve into every cranny of table top.
    Have been listening for about 2-2.5 years now, and I have to say Stu and Hambone have done some great work dissecting, invoking, and interviewing so many classic and obscure games and their creative teams. I have actually bought a few things after listening to them talk about them. Heck I love the fiction book reviews they give and have some of those too. I will vouch for this podcast every time. So give a listen and enjoy!
  • samuraix98
    Great Friends, Fun Topics
    F you want to learn about and dive into the TTRPG scene, this is the show to help you.
  • FTC242
    The Best RPG podcast
    Imagine entering a library of every RPG ever made. Simply put, it’s the best way to dive into the rich (and weird) history and diversity of RPGs. Excellent production and sound quality too.
  • Lounge Man 08
    Get it you don’t use Twitter
    Got tired of listening to how they don’t use twitter and how they now use some new platform. Guess what lots of people don’t use twitter. Also I came to listen to stuff about RPGs not what political position you hold. I give two stars because I did like a few episodes, but with more of their political views being expressed at the end just didn’t come to hear that.
  • Kofallb
    Love
    This podcast is awesome, Stu and Hambone are fun to listen to, and they keep it tight, no rambling, just good discussion. Also I like that they have an actual opinion about these games! Join the Patreon, they have a $1 level, it’s the least we can do as listeners. Thanks guys.
  • TLucas70
    Fun but lacking
    Quick deep dives all across the RPG timeline from the Wild West days of the early 70s to now. The historical tidbits are the most enjoyable. Understanding the context and relationship the games and books that comprise the works covered on this show are fascinating. When they discuss D&D and CoC, they are most comfortable and entertaining. Anything beyond that is pretty much one guys explaining things to another. The vacuum created by this dynamic is filled with try-hard snark, nitpick criticisms, and attempts to say something edgy. Fortunately they are generally likable to forgive these foibles.
  • kodiak71
    Top Marks
    Great chemistry, laughs, and in-depth knowledge of RPGs to make your podcast experience even better. Solid takes on games and I wish I had the budget of these guys to buy games and would love to see their collection in the swamp at some point. Episodes are a little short and there is occasional berating of Gygax that sometimes rubs me the wrong way. They aren’t fans of Greyhawk which is unfortunate since the setting has provided the vast majority of cool magic items, spells, and bad guys. It’s not perfect by any means, but I feel they negatively call it out too often. They are about 10 years younger than I, but they bring the energy to good old D&D. It’s great to see/hear the continuation of this wonderful game. Keep it up guys!!!
  • jimmymcsnakes
    RPG History from Some Real Buffs
    These two ur-nerds know exactly what they're talking about when it comes to dusty role-playing-games, but it's more than mere knowledge dropping here. The friendship, the laughs, the good-natured love of the form all shines in this beautifully bite-sized gem. Beyond that, it’s crystal clear where they stand with regard to worker's rights, mutual aid, and anti-fascism, and all the better for it. If you think that’s against free speech, well you can go play Warhammer with your fellow bootlickers somewhere else.
  • Michael Bailey
    Anti-capitalism… with ads 🙄
    I liked this podcast at first but I noticed a slow trend towards politicization in a lot of their episodes. Call me crazy but everything in the world doesn’t need to be political. Even though I likely agree on much their politics, it’s tiresome trying to listen to a show about role-playing games only to be preached to. I especially find it ironic that they’ve recently added ads to their shows then in the most recent episode they claim to hate capitalism. That shows a real lack of self-awareness.
  • Railgun
    Went downhill
    Started out good but now it’s 5 minutes of ads, intros and socialist diatribe before you get to the podcast.
  • decalod85
    Nice podcast
    I like this podcast as I would love to talk RPGs over a beer with Hambone and Stu. They come across as regular guys but are insightful and creative. I really want them to dig into the 90’s boxed sets like Ravenloft Masque of the Red Death, Spelljammer, Red Steel, and possibly the Cadillacs and Dinosaurs RPG.
  • Teem Dodger
    Uninformed
    These guys seem to not understand the Basic D&D set. There are wilderness rules, and rules for strongholds. I guess they think the Rules Cyclopedia is a different system? Also, it’s always suspect when someone says they spent lots and lots of money on a book because it looked pretty, and then they say it’s amazing. Like, of course you think so. You spent a lot of money. This doesn’t tell me anything.
  • Jill Lloyd Flanagan
    Very likeable short form podcast
    Always fascinating, the vintage rpg podcast offers snippets of knowledge from the Host’s knowledge of role playing games. I wish they would do a few more long form episodes but honestly the show is perfect as is
  • ggggreencat
    Concise, affectionate, well-chosen details.
    These guys have an almost uncanny knack for introducing an RPG, giving it context, sharing a grounding anecdote or two, and then leaving room to feel excited about it without getting into the weeds. Joyous, brisk, and easy to listen to.
  • Jon Father
    Informative, Fun, Fantastic
    Love these guys. They clearly know what they’re talking about and never let the complexities (or, comparatively, the lack thereof) inherent to these various TTRPG systems bog down the retrospective into boredom. I can’t even begin to calculate the number of vintage systems I have added to my cellar thanks to our duo’s coverage. This is the perfect melding of entertainment and information I was looking for in a podcast about the gaming hobby. Can’t wait to buy the products being pressed by the crew in their hidden club house somewhere in the swamps of New Jersey.
  • TheOilSkins
    Great history
    Awesome podcast, best content is the history of ttrpgs and commentary on different worlds, systems, etc. therein. The bashing on D&D gets so tedious.
  • D. Julius
    Snark Overload
    Used to eagerly look forward to new episodes and seeing what the guys would talk about. Now, not nearly as much. The snark and condescending tone have become a bit much over the last 8-10 episodes and while a little can be fun, now it’s just annoying. Everyone enjoys different types of games and the hosts should try to remember that. Overall it’s still a good podcast, just not as much fun to listen to as it used to be.
  • wigar1jm
    4 episodes in and I'm in love? (update: 3 years and 100 episodes in and I'm *definitely* in love).
    Originally reviewed in Fall 2018: "The back-and-forth between Stu and Hambone is great, as is the actual content. I find myself grinning, laughing, and nodding along throughout each episode. Plus, I've gotten to hear about some cool products (Ghostbusters RPG and Tales from the Loop!) along with personal insights and experiences with the games. 5/5, 10/10, whatever scale, they're at the tippy-top, and they're only just getting started." 2021 update: "I've been listening to Stu and Hambone for the better part of three years now, and I can say unequivocally that these folks are phenomenal. They're approaching their topics with equal parts newbie-friendly accessibility, critical enthusiasm, and good-hearted friendship. On top of that, they've managed to build one of the best online community spaces out there (seriously, check out their Discord group!). If you're feeling daunted or looking for a place to start, look for episodes on new games you might be interested in, old ones you've never heard of, or interviews with rad folks! I've managed to teach a couple of episodes of the podcasts in my college courses, even. Looking forward to the next 100 eps!"
  • beersocials.org
    Drive time RPG
    If you are looking for an RPG podcast that sounds a bit like a “morning zoo” drive time radio show this is the one for you!
  • IronOak-Kelly
    Just the right amount of nerdy
    This podcast will expose you to new things without getting too lost in the weeds.
  • lexxmasta
    Hands down the best OSR podcast
    Stu and Hambone bring a great positive spin on old school tabletop roleplaying games. The sound is great, it’s very well edited and the episodes or concise without a lot of off topic filler. I started with the Basic D&D episode and then binged the rest in like a week! I look forward to every episode like a kid a Christmas.
  • WhatTheNerdHeard
    Top Notch Nostalgia
    Love the deep doves on all the stuff I loved growing up! Keep up the great work, guys!!!
  • modcon02
    A True Gem
    I followed the original Instagram account (VintageRPG) and while I enjoyed the Nostalgia Rush ™ of seeing classic Erol Otus covers, I wasn’t 100% sure how well that would translate to a podcast. What if the hosts turned out to be reactionary who hated anything after AD
  • Uber deeds
    Find another podcast
    The podcast isn’t bad. I’d probably give it 3 stars if it weren’t for the snide comments about politics the hosts and guests sometimes make. Look, I get it, you want to discuss your politics in public, and you’re proud to be a good person. But you can do that without being a douche. I urge everyone to boycott podcasts by people behave this way.
  • awsomeville
    Great, smart show
    I really appreciate this podcast. The hosts obviously love classic RPGs. The shows are about the games or the topic of the week. No corny hijinks. No conversations about craft beer or what they ate for dinner. They respect our hobby, and they respect their listeners.
  • Emancipor
    Too short
    I’ve never felt this about any other podcast, but these episodes are way too short. I hope the creators take this as a complement: topics, banter, insight, production values are all top notch. But when they barely run 20 min and there’s an ad?
  • Gobocop
    My Favorite RPG show period
    This podcast is just great. It covers pretty much all I want to listen too if I’m not listening to folks actually play RPGs. I could listen to Stu pretty much for hours talking about different rpgs, artists and ttrpg. I wish I could go see his collection hah. Hambone is a rad too, balancing it out with good comments, questions and humor. Every time I’ve listened to this podcast I pretty much just want to play my rpgs or go and find and search about rpgs! If anything I wish they were longer episodes and sometimes more in depth but that is no fault on theirs by any means. I’ve discovered cool rpgs through this show and follow and look forward to Stu’s Instagram VintageRPG. I can’t recommend it enough man. Get on it!!
  • Deaddogdays
    Great podcast even if you're not an RPG player!
    I was only tangentially interested in RPG games when I first found the podcast, and the ones I were interested in were newer editions/titles. Each episode is carefully crafted to give the listener an indepth and researched tour from a product from the past. The host are fantastic, and the production is top notch. Must listen for anyone even remotely interested in RPGs.
  • Rob Matheny
    Great showgram!
    Two hosts who aren’t annoying and the show is well produced with great content for any rpg enthusiast of the vintage variety. Highly recommend.
  • Stephen Grishnackh
    Escapism in these dark and perilous times
    Anyone who grew up in the 1980s or 90s and played RPGs should give this a listen.
  • Robbie 5000
    Great Show!
    Great job finding the weird and forgotten role playing games of yore.
  • YMINCA
    Dungeons and Dragons and Nostalgia!
    This has quickly become one of my favorite podcasts! We don’t get to play D and D or board games as often as I like, so it great to hear Stu and John discuss both the classic D&D books and games as well as the the current and new board and role playing games that they are playing. I especially like when they delve deep into a classic module or rule book. It brings back memories. They also interview original content creators. If you have ever played RPGs or would like too, check out this podcast! ~Scott
  • JimmerJimboJames
    Got me back into RPGs
    After not playing RPGs for many years due to kids etc., I was inspired by these guys to find a group and make it happen. They are funny and very informative in all areas of RPG.
  • fcerillo
    Brilliant and fun.
    I love this show, it checks all the boxes; nostalgia, informative, funny, and gets me wanting to play games in general. The hosts have great chemistry and they have gotten some awesome interviews with top creatives in the gaming field. If you like gaming or just want to hear about some fantastic games from the past give the podcast a listen.
  • ThreeSeal
    One of the best
    This is one of the best podcasts on the world of table top role playing games out there. Hambone and Stu are very knowledgeable about the craft of RPG’s, and they are entertaining to listen to. I wish there were more episodes and I can’t wait to hear what they talk about next.
  • TrentG21
    Red Box or lack there of
    You guys talked about EXCEPT The Red Box!! I didn’t really need a recap of the 80’s because I was there just wanted to actually hear about the Red Box.
  • Texasisfunny
    Horrible Takes
    Horrible opinion takes passed off as truth.
  • Feond1
    get into it
    Great show, even for folks who are not deep rpg divers. Hosts have good chemistry and they keep a lively pace. too short sometimes! :) I find myself talking along, trying to interrupt like I am there. Best consumed in tandem with the IG feed or the exclusive pics & content on their Patreon.
  • JakeCalderBurby
    Absolutely brilliant adventure down the dungeons of your youth.
    Fantastic. Just absolutely brilliant. Fun, lighthearted, great voice talent and quality, and amazing content that fuels the memories and imagination of adventuring days of yore!
  • TheShadowplay
    Instagram turned Podcast
    The VintageRPG instagram tickled all the right nostalgia bones in me. When I heard he had a podcast I just had to listen. These guys are great. Stu and Hambone really know their stuff and are great conversationalists. They keep things interesting and never go too far or talk too much. They leave you wanting more. With most episodes only lasting around 30 minutes they never overstay their welcome. You’ll end up wanting to hang out with these guys to talk games or somehow find their clubhouse in the swamps of New Jersey to play with them. All in all a great time and podcast!
  • trojandrew
    Love it!
    As a kid of the 80’s I should have been jamming D&D games every weekend with my friends, but I somehow missed out on this phenomenon in my youth. I didn’t get into D&D until after college and feel like I’ve been making up for lost time ever since. I love this podcast for helping me reclaim the joy I was ROBBED of as a kid by taking me on a tour through all this old school D&D and RPG content. Great work, gents!
  • VikingBlast
    Learn more about those games you’ve heard of
    Great podcast with a wealth of info on games you’ve heard of, but may not know much about. It’s great at exposing the concepts and what might interest you about all of those used game books you see. My only issue is that I would love to hear about a game that they don’t like!
  • TravezRipley
    Fun dad duo who get to escape!
    This podcast is great, found them last year became a fan instantly. The have a vast knowledge of vintage games. They do great reviews of vintage games and new tabletop games they are currently playing. Makes me wish I knew where their secret base is in the swamp of New Jersey so I could go play and have fun with some Dads.
  • TGizzLE
    Bullseye
    Everything about this podcast is right on. The hosts, the rapport, professional sound, the pace, topics — absolutely everything. Can’t wait for the next one!
  • sashamonkey
    My kinda games, my kinda nerd chatter
    Yeah as a NJ kid I like hearing about these games most of which I never played. It clearly comes from the heart and now I wanna play Ghostbusters RPG. Mostly I play The Thing and Gaslands these days. So dig in!
  • Passionerdly
    Merry Christmas!
    The Vintage RPG is so much fun! In recent years there are a slew of RPG memorabilia and nostalgia shows on different platforms from Istagram to Twitter to Podcast and the Vintage RPG Podcast is at the top. Some great banter on what the guys are playing currently followed by a look at different game books from history. Always entertaining, it's on my subscription list!
  • jackalope1041261
    Get into it
    Dust off those old modules and let these two take them for a ride as they discuss the beautiful artwork, nostalgia and mechanics of gems such as my personal favorite Ravenloft!
  • Moundhousedude
    RPG Fandom At It’s Best
    This show is excellent! Vintage RPG highlights games that I may never have played or invested in if they had not broken down the systems on the show and, as a massive fan of tabletop RPGs, this is very helpful in deciding which vintage games I want to play next. This has quickly jumped to one of my most anticipated podcasts to listen to when new episodes drop and I hope in the future they have weekly episodes! -Devon Host, Rocks Fall: An RPG and Tabletop Game Podcast
  • No More Bad Coin Games
    This is an excellent RPG Podcast
    Well-informed, well produced and topical, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone within the pen&paper tabletop RPG community. With a narrative focus on expositing historical context & contemporary relevance to older games & games-systems, this is podcast is a jovial & informative exploration of vintage RPG media & experience. +for having good audio recording quality, ++ for having both a quick intro & a short lead-in. North Jersey accents not a requirement but a pleasant bonus.
  • Cobbpasha
    Good for your ears
    Thoroughly digging this nostalgic trip into the world of RPGs—and learning tons in the process!
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