The DM's Cantrip

This episode of The DMs Cantrip explores the three core activities that make up a Dungeons & Dragons game: Exploration, Social Interaction, and Combat, also known as the Three Pillars of Play.

Host Alaric, Keeper of the Hearth, explains how these pillars—discovery and inquiry (Exploration), character expression and negotiation (Social Interaction), and strategic battles (Combat)—intertwine to create a dynamic and engaging narrative. The episode emphasizes player agency and how your choices determine which pillar you lean into, ensuring a unique adventure every time the dice are rolled.

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All Music by Monument Studios is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International 

What is The DM's Cantrip?

Welcome, traveler! Name's Alaric, Keeper of the Hearth, and this has been my favorite stool for over a decade. I've seen green adventurers become legendary heroes, and I've seen Dungeon Masters weave tales that would make the gods weep.

In all that time, I’ve picked up a few simple tricks of the trade—little spells for a better story. That’s what "The DM's Cantrip" is all about: short tales and easy advice to help you roll dice and tell stories with confidence. So grab an ale, and let's talk shop.

The DM's Cantrip is a TTRPG and Dungeons and Dragons podcast centered around teaching new players and DM's alike the tricks and tips of the game and sharing stories from my own table. Hope you enjoy!