Episode 716: Sumptuous Alchemical Banquets
Summary
Ken and Robin discuss "signature beats" in RPGs, analyzing how to manage player expectations and emotional payoffs for character-defining abilities. They then interview Diogo Nguera, the new lead designer at White Wolf, who shares his career path from Brazil and outlines his vision for Vampire 5th Edition, focusing on internal struggle and modern relevance. Finally, the duo explores the architecture of Albany's South Mall, comparing its design to the Potala Palace and detailing the political corruption and urban renewal that funded its construction.
Topics discussed
Intro and Ars Magica Definitive Edition ad
Signature Beats: Payoffs and Anticipation in RPGs
Dying Earth RPG Humble Bundle ad
Interview with Diogo Nguera on Vampire 6th Edition
The King in Yellow Tarot Deck ad
Albany's Empire State Plaza and the Potala Palace
George Starkey: The 17th Century Alchemist
Outro and sponsor acknowledgments
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