The DM's Cantrip

Alaric, Keeper of the Hearth, introduces Episode 5 of The DM's Cantrip, focusing on understanding the dice used in roleplaying games. He explains the purpose and common uses for each of the seven standard dice: the d20 (most common, for action outcomes), d12 (for heavy weapon damage), d10 (for heavy weapons/spells, with a second percentile d10 for 1-100 rolls), d8 (for common martial weapons/spells), d6 (for lighter weapons/spells like Fireball), and d4 (for small weapons/spells like Magic Missile). He also clarifies the notation "XdY" (e.g., 2d6 means roll two 6-sided dice and add results).

The episode however, ends abruptly due to a disturbance inside the Weary Wanderer Inn. 

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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!