Episode 701: Star of Arioch Setting

Episode 701: Star of Arioch Setting

Author: Kenneth Hite and Robin D Laws May 29, 2026 Duration: 58:00
In the Gaming Hut we get started quickly by asking how much background detail players want in a pregenerated character. Making good on a promise from episode 696, the Archaeology Hut checks out another possible inspiration for the labyrinth, the complex at Gortyn. Beloved Patreon backer Nicolaj convenes the Narrative Hut for a look at […]

Imagine a table in a cozy pub where two of the sharpest minds in gaming and pop culture have gathered for their regular chat. That’s the feeling you get with Ken and Robin Talk About Stuff. Each episode, Kenneth Hite and Robin D. Laws dive into a wonderfully eclectic mix of topics pulled from history, conspiracy theories, film, and of course, the intricate craft of game design. Their conversation is less a formal interview and more like eavesdropping on two friends who happen to be encyclopedic experts, effortlessly connecting the dots between a forgotten historical figure and a modern storytelling technique. You’ll hear them dissect the mechanics of a role-playing game with the same engaging depth they apply to analyzing a classic noir film or unpacking an odd slice of folklore. The charm of this podcast lies in the genuine chemistry between Ken and Robin-their thoughtful debates, witty asides, and shared enthusiasm make even the most niche subject feel immediately accessible and fascinating. It’s a consistent source of intellectual curiosity and entertainment for anyone who enjoys seeing where a meandering, insightful conversation between two creative professionals can lead. Tune in for a regular dose of clever ideas and unexpected connections, all delivered with a warm, conversational ease that feels both smart and welcoming.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Ken and Robin Talk About Stuff
Podcast Episodes
Episode 672: I Mostly Like Cowboys [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:28
Now that Ken has finally seen it, beloved Patreon backer Justin Mohareb can pitch his Kpop Demon Hunters question to the Gaming Hut: how could it be used as a game, and how would that be a Feng Shui campaign? Ken and/or…
Episode 671: Steve Is Hell [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:30
The Gaming Hut examines parallels between killer dungeons and horror movie slashers. Impelled by beloved Patreon backer Jurie Horneman, the Tradecraft Hut looks at the career of financial fraudster turned Russian operati…
Episode 670: The Ghost of Cromwell’s Head [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:18:27
The Gaming Hut looks at the peace paradox, in which players successfully negotiate their way out of a conflict and then feel let down by the anti-climactic result. Ken and/or Robin Talk to Someone Else features Lyla Fuji…
Episode 669: His Botanist Turns On Him [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:21
The Gaming Hut becomes a pit stop as beloved Patreon backer Aser Tolentino asks how a tabletop game might reproduce the spectacle of Formula One racing. In the History Hut we ask if Elizabeth Bathory was framed. Robin sh…
Episode 668: Skating and Painting [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:07
In the Gaming Hut we wonder what might appear on a tabletop roleplaying design course curriculum. At the behest of beloved Patreon backer Charles Picard the History Hut looks at the Welsh settlement in Patagonia. Ken and…
Episode 667: Live at Gen Con [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:22
Recorded live at Gen Con, Ken, special guest co-host Darcy Ross and a cameo from Robin’s disembodied voice, this extra-special episode features the obligatory nerdtrope deck plus meatloaf secrets, Templar channeling poin…
Episode 666: It Ruins the Flavor [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:01
In the spirit of the episode number, we kick off a demons and devils special in the Gaming Hut. Robin pitches Ken three ideas for a game with demon PCs; Ken picks one and we flesh it out. In the Mythology Hut we figure o…
Episode 665: A Friend is a Crunchy Bit [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:07:57
Clutch your stakes and polish your silver bullets as the Gaming Hut looks at the special vulnerabilities that allow player characters to defeat monsters. In the Stock Character Hut, we look at a key type essentials to Ro…
Episode 664: Oxford, Another University [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:54
In the Gaming Hut we look at how the unsatisfying nature of real life persuasion leads to player dissatisfaction with social combat systems. In Ken and/or Robin Talk to Someone Else, Ken sits down the Pat Mooney of Flagb…
Episode 663: I Know This Isn’t in the Brochure [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:02
Beloved Patreon backer Sikander orders and/or bribes the Gaming Hut into a discussion of game mechanics that require players to take in-genre actions versus those that offer rewards for doing so. At the behest of estimab…