Alphastream

The Alphastream Game Design Blog

5E D&D’s Playtests – Which Was Better?

Comparing the 2014 and 2024 D&D 5E playtests reveals big differences in the goals and approach, with lessons applicable to future versions and other RPGs.

Featured · 6 Comments

The Revised Player’s Handbook for 5E and its Future

In assessing the revised DMG and MM, I’ve overall been positive. Not so for the 2024 D&D Player’s Handbook.

Featured · 17 Comments

Assessing the Revised DMG for D&D 5E

The 2014 DMG was criticized as a book DMs did not consult often, or even need to read. Does the revised 2024 DMG solve these problems and become the DM’s indispensable tome? What role should a DMG play?

April 2, 2025 · 1 Comment

How to Create a Monster for Revised D&D 5E 2024

The 2024 DMG doesn’t tell us how to build a monster… but I’ve done that work for you!

March 26, 2025 · 8 Comments

Best and Worst of the Revised Monster Manual

A look at the best and worst aspects of the revised Dungeons & Dragons Monster Manual.

March 13, 2025 · 7 Comments

An Alternative to Removing Orcs and Drow from D&D’s Monster Manual

Orcs and drow have been removed from the Monster Manual, but this just hides our hobby’s issues.

February 26, 2025 · 8 Comments

Encounter Math, Bastions, New Acq Inc, and More!

Adventure Tools updates, new Acquisitions Inc supplement, new videos, and more! I’m back from Gamehole Con and energized!

November 7, 2024 · Leave a comment

Join My Tables at 2024 GameHole Con!

Come join me at GameHole 2024 for games, panels, and more!

August 17, 2024 · 2 Comments

Focusing a Campaign Through Themes and Truths

We can focus our campaign through themes and truths, delivering on player expectations and creating engaging play for us and our players.

July 20, 2024 · 4 Comments

ENnies Nomination – Vote Now!

I am so incredibly proud to be nominated for an ENnie award for Best Online Content!

July 12, 2024 · Leave a comment

The Campaign Our Players Want?

Our next RPG campaign will be more successful if we consider what will appeal to our players.

May 27, 2024 · Leave a comment

What Kind of DM Are You?

Many types of campaigns seem to appeal to us. But if we think more carefully, we may find certain types of campaigns appeal to us more than others!

May 12, 2024 · 3 Comments

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