Alphastream

The Alphastream Game Design Blog

What we can learn from WotC’s Core Book Sensitivity and Inclusivity Changes

In 2023, WotC updated the language of the 2014 core books for sensitivity and inclusivity. Let’s examine the changes and learn how to improve our own creations.

November 17, 2023 · 12 Comments

How to Use the Creative Commons!

The Creative Commons license is becoming a popular method for companies and creators to work in the same space. Learn what the CC license does and how to use CC material in your products or make your product usable by others using the CC license.

July 18, 2023 · Leave a comment

How to Use the OGL to Create RPG Products!

D&D and some other companies provide an Open Gaming License you can use to create products utilizing their systems. Learn what the OGL and similar licenses are like, how to use them, when to use them, and when not to use them!

June 16, 2023 · Leave a comment

Improve Your Adventures and Campaigns by Focusing on Threats

The 5E Dungeon Master’s Guide narrowly defines a villain and their role in an adventure. By widening the definition and leaning into the concept of Threats, we can create better campaigns and adventures.

June 1, 2023 · 2 Comments

RPG Fan Content Polices: How to Use Them (and Avoid Problems)

On the show Success in RPGs I look at how to make the most of Fan Content Policies. Learn what you can do and how to avoid problems!

May 9, 2023 · Leave a comment

The Community Rises at the D&D Creator Summit

Attendees of the D&D Creator Summit rose up to discuss issues critical to our hobby. I review the issues and actionable items.

April 7, 2023 · 20 Comments

The Key Issues for OGL 2.0

A checklist by which we can assess whether any future OGL 2.0 for Dungeons & Dragons meets the needs of creators, the hobby, and WotC.

January 15, 2023 · 6 Comments

Success with Social Media and NDAs

Two new Success in RPG videos, a Podcast vote, and much more heading our way in 2023!

January 3, 2023 · Leave a comment

What Can a Freelancer Earn?

How much can a freelancer earn in a year? What is a good word rate? How many PHBs would I need to write to afford a decent living? Episode 3 of Success in RPGs has the answers!

September 29, 2022 · 4 Comments

Your Game’s Lore? Make it Actionable!

Lore is often encyclopedic, hard to use and even intimidating for Dungeon Masters. Here is how actionable lore can change your game.

June 2, 2022 · 3 Comments

What Should I Playtest at Gamehole?

I’m going to playtest an adventure at Gamehole Con, and supporters will determine which one.

April 29, 2022 · 1 Comment

Make the Most of Tomb of Annihilation with the Dungeon of Doom

Dwarven Forge provides free adventures for D&D 5E and Pathfinder. Let’s add Dungeon of Doom into Tomb of Annihilation!

March 18, 2022 · Leave a comment

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