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
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Lesson # 121 - Animal Companions and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:29
On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about animal companions. Yes, they are different than familiars and only rangers can have them. And while an animal sidekick is appealing, in game, animal comp…
Lesson # 120 - Familiars and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:45
On this lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt talk about animal familiars. Many players like their player characters to have an animal sidekick. What are the rules behind obtaining a familiar and how can a play…
Lesson # 119: Video Games and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:49
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Lesson # 118 - NPC Creation and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:46
Josh and Matt are joined by Tom Cantwell of the RPG Academy! The topic: How to Create Dynamic and Memorable NPCs! Raise your hand if you have created an NPC on the fly? Raise your hand if you have created an NPC named St…
Lesson # 117: Homebrewed Monsters and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:40
On this special interview lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Josh and Matt are joined by Andrew Cawood! The topic: Making Homebrewed Monster for your D&D Campaign. Andrew Cawood is the the owner, creative lead, and a writ…
Lesson # 116: Online D&D and Dragons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:45
On this very special lesson of Detentions and Dragons, Matt interviews Adam DeWees of the One-Shot Onslaught podcast. The topic: running D&D games online. One of the best parts of D&D is being able to gather around the t…