Lesson # 138 - Plot Twists and Dragons

Lesson # 138 - Plot Twists and Dragons

Author: Block Party Podcast Network March 8, 2021 Duration: 34:59

On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about using plot twists to adapt your D&D game to the benefit of your players. We get it. D&D campaigns run long, Players get distracted by NPCs you didn't think to write a back story for, and people rather punch goblins that role-play in your nuanced corporate espionage campaign. You don't have to scrap the story. Instead add a plot twist to adapt or reinvigorate the game!

Did these two teachers convince you to add your own plot twist to your next D&D game? Then help Josh and Matt out by recommending Detentions and Dragons to a friend, teacher, or student. New listeners are the best way to help us grow as a podcast. Thanks again for all of your support!

Detentions and Dragons is a proud member of the Block Party Podcast Network! Check out our show and other great D&D and gaming podcast at https://www.blockpartypodcastnetwork.com/ or where ever you download podcasts!


Ever wondered how the collaborative storytelling of a tabletop roleplaying game could transform a classroom or simply enrich your own game night? That’s the territory explored in Detentions and Dragons, hosted by Josh and Matt. While the core idea is built around integrating Dungeons and Dragons into educational settings, the conversations extend far beyond the school walls. The hosts delve into practical advice for crafting manageable adventures, adapting rules for different age groups, and using game mechanics to teach everything from critical thinking to social skills. You’ll hear specific examples of classroom campaigns, breakdowns of educational concepts framed as game mechanics, and reflections on what makes a collaborative narrative truly engaging. Whether you're an educator looking for a dynamic new tool, a brand new Dungeon Master seeking foundational tips, or a longtime player curious about the game's applied potential, this podcast offers a unique perspective. It’s a biweekly show that takes a summer break, giving hosts and listeners time to recharge and plan their next campaigns. Detentions and Dragons is part of the Block Party Podcast Network, focusing on the tangible ways a fantasy game can build real-world skills and community, making the podcast a resource that’s as informative as it is genuinely fun to listen to.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Detentions and Dragons
Podcast Episodes
Lesson # 176 - Graduation 2023 and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:36
School is out for summer!!! With empty desks and empty classrooms, Josh and Matt sit back and recount adventures from their D&D games in club. No rules, No lesson plans, just two teachers telling stories about the fun th…
Lesson # 174 - Roll Modeling: Level Up and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:38
On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about how to level up player characters. They discuss what leveling up is, what is changed and what stays the same when a character levels up, and demonstrate…
Lesson # 173 - Roll Modeling: Rests and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:30
On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about Short and Long Rests. They discuss what these are, mechanics and requirements for resting, and yes, they even demonstrate restoring HP and spells slots t…
Lesson # 172 - Roll Modeling: Reactions and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:20
On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about using reactions in combat. They discuss what the reaction action is, when and why a player might use them, and demonstrate reaction through semi-scripted…
Lesson # 171 - Roll Modeling: Bonus Actions and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:40
On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about bonus actions in combat. They discuss what bonus actions are, when and why a player might use them, and demonstrate bonus actions through semi-scripted r…
Lesson # 170 - Roll Modeling: Improvised Actions and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:30
On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about the improvised actions in combat. They discuss what improvised actions are, when and why a player might use them, and how a DM can fairly and collaborati…
Lesson # 169 - Roll Modeling: Other Actions and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:13
On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about the other combat actions. Characters can cast spells and make melee attacks, but those aren't the only ways they can participate in battle They discuss t…
Lesson # 168 - Roll Modeling: Combat Magic and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:00
On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about the basics of using magic combat. They discuss the basics of spells, the requirements of spell casting, and demo combat magic through roll play. Did thes…
Lesson # 167 - Story Time: 2022 and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:04
The holiday tradition returns once more! To celebrate the holiday season, Matt gives Josh the present he wants most in life: a chance to talk about fun stories from his D&D games. Listen as Josh and Matt ramble on and em…