GURPStalk

Che Webster & Patrick Mullen

Co-hosts Che Webster (Roleplay Rescue) and Patrick Mullen (processinggurps.com) talk about GURPS - the Generic Universal Role-Playing System published by Steve Jackson Games - and using it to run long-form roleplaying campaigns. We discuss topics arising from using the game system aimed at intermediate users of the rules who wish to progress towards deeper and more immersive role-play in whatever fictional worlds they imagine. The material presented here is our original creation, intended for use with the GURPS system from Steve Jackson Games. This material is not official and is not endorsed by Steve Jackson Games. GURPS is a registered trademark of Steve Jackson Games, and any GURPS art here is copyrighted by Steve Jackson Games. All rights are reserved by SJ Games. This material is used here in accordance with the SJ Games online policy. GURPStalk logo by MJ Hiblen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 8 HR AGO

    Dark Arts

    What use might so-called AI tools have for an RPG? Che and Pat recorded an episode of their podcast discussing the use of "dark arts" - specifically AI tools like NotebookLM, Lumo, and Gemini - in role-playing game preparation. They shared how these tools help with research, analysis, and creating game materials more efficiently, while acknowledging the importance of user expertise in managing the limitations of large language models. The conversation covered specific use cases including world-building, character development, and creating game mechanics, with both hosts emphasizing that these tools serve as research assistants rather than creative replacements. They also addressed common concerns about AI in gaming, including copyright issues and the distinction between AI tools and true artificial intelligence. And yes, an LLM created that blurb. GOT A QUESTION? Ask us via voice message: speakpipe.com/gurpstalk Ask us via an email: gurpstalk@pm.me PAT'S BLOG: Processing GURPS – Enabling Longform, Immersive TTRPG play using GURPS OR https://processinggurps.com/ RPR PATREON: patreon.com/rpgrescue THANKS: Jon from Tale of the Manticore for the music: https://taleofthemanticore.podbean.com/ Logo by MJ Hiblen: https://www.patreon.com/MJHiblenART/ DISCLAIMER & NOTICE: The material presented here is our original creation, intended for use with the GURPS system from Steve Jackson Games. This material is not official and is not endorsed by Steve Jackson Games. GURPS is a registered trademark of Steve Jackson Games, and any GURPS art here is copyrighted by Steve Jackson Games. All rights are reserved by SJ Games. This material is used here in accordance with the SJ Games online policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1hr 12min
  2. 4 MAY

    Shenanigans

    Can you run an open table in a long-form manner with a consistent, grounded campaign world? And what about mysteries: can you run an investigative game in an open world style? Pat and Che discuss the challenges of running an open table while maintaining a consistent, grounded campaign world. Pat argues that open tables inherently conflict with world consistency due to the transient nature of players, while Che defends the concept by referencing the West Marches movement and Justin Alexander's Open Table Manifesto.  Pat discusses the challenges of running open and emergent investigations, noting that it requires a group of seasoned TTRPG players who are interested in the long game rather than quick successes. Pat suggests that GMs need to be willing to throw away prep work and be committed to the ongoing narrative to fully enjoy such campaigns. Thanks for listening to and supporting the show. Pat mentions the 1ShotAdventures guy: Complete List of Adventures (GURPS 4th Edition) - 1Shot Adventures OR 1shotadventures.com/1shot-adventures-gurps/ GOT A QUESTION? Ask us via voice message: speakpipe.com/gurpstalk Ask us via an email: gurpstalk@pm.me PAT'S BLOG: Processing GURPS – Enabling Longform, Immersive TTRPG play using GURPS OR https://processinggurps.com/ RPR PATREON: patreon.com/rpgrescue THANKS: Jon from Tale of the Manticore for the music: https://taleofthemanticore.podbean.com/ Logo by MJ Hiblen: https://www.patreon.com/MJHiblenART/ DISCLAIMER & NOTICE: The material presented here is our original creation, intended for use with the GURPS system from Steve Jackson Games. This material is not official and is not endorsed by Steve Jackson Games. GURPS is a registered trademark of Steve Jackson Games, and any GURPS art here is copyrighted by Steve Jackson Games. All rights are reserved by SJ Games. This material is used here in accordance with the SJ Games online policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min
  3. 20 APR

    On Time and Space

    How do we track time in GURPS... and what is an Open World? Pat and Che discuss time management and pacing in role-playing games, particularly focusing on GURPS. They explore how different campaign settings require varying approaches to tracking time, with Pat emphasising the importance of keeping detailed time records and Che sharing his practical method of using simple paper notes. The conversation covers the distinction between unknown worlds (more sandbox-style) and known worlds (more open-world style), with examples from the hosts' campaigns including Karameikos and Dark Passages. They discuss specific techniques for managing time in different game scenarios, from tactical combat to long investigative tasks, and conclude by addressing how different game structures require different pacing approaches based on the genre and world being created. Thanks to the other Matt for the call-in. Thanks to you for listening and supporting the show. GOT A QUESTION? Ask us via voice message: speakpipe.com/gurpstalk Ask us via an email: gurpstalk@pm.me PAT'S BLOG: Processing GURPS – Enabling Longform, Immersive TTRPG play using GURPS OR https://processinggurps.com/ RPR PATREON: patreon.com/rpgrescue THANKS: Jon from Tale of the Manticore for the music: https://taleofthemanticore.podbean.com/ Logo by MJ Hiblen: https://www.patreon.com/MJHiblenART/ DISCLAIMER & NOTICE: The material presented here is our original creation, intended for use with the GURPS system from Steve Jackson Games. This material is not official and is not endorsed by Steve Jackson Games. GURPS is a registered trademark of Steve Jackson Games, and any GURPS art here is copyrighted by Steve Jackson Games. All rights are reserved by SJ Games. This material is used here in accordance with the SJ Games online policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr
  4. 6 APR

    GURPS & Digital Tools

    How can we use digital technology to improve our games? In this episode of GURPStalk, Pat and Che dive into the intersection of technology and tabletop gaming. They focus on how GCS (GURPS Character Sheet) automates the math of character creation, taking the headache out of tracking points and skills. Pat breaks down his setup using Foundry VTT via The Forge, showcasing how cloud-based hosting streamlines the remote experience. The duo explores the shift toward digital dice, automated sheets, and map management, reflecting on how the pandemic permanently evolved gaming culture. It’s a deep dive into balancing high-tech tools with the traditional spirit of the game. Thanks to Ubergrog for the call-in. Thanks to you for listening and supporting the show. GOT A QUESTION? Ask us via voice message: speakpipe.com/gurpstalk Ask us via an email: gurpstalk@pm.me PAT'S BLOG: Processing GURPS – Enabling Longform, Immersive TTRPG play using GURPS OR https://processinggurps.com/ RPR PATREON: patreon.com/rpgrescue THANKS: Jon from Tale of the Manticore for the music: https://taleofthemanticore.podbean.com/ Logo by MJ Hiblen: https://www.patreon.com/MJHiblenART/ DISCLAIMER & NOTICE: The material presented here is our original creation, intended for use with the GURPS system from Steve Jackson Games. This material is not official and is not endorsed by Steve Jackson Games. GURPS is a registered trademark of Steve Jackson Games, and any GURPS art here is copyrighted by Steve Jackson Games. All rights are reserved by SJ Games. This material is used here in accordance with the SJ Games online policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min
  5. 23 MAR

    Equipped

    Brian asks, "Is equipment as important as the character's traits?" Pat and Che discuss equipment in GURPS, focusing on its importance and customisation options. They explore how equipment can reflect a character's background and personality, rather than defining it. The conversation covers the detailed and flexible equipment rules in GURPS, including weapon stats, armour options, and tech levels. Pat emphasises the system's ability to accommodate various settings and historical periods, while Che appreciates the practical guidance for grounded worlds.  Thanks to Brian for the emailed question. Thanks to you for listening and supporting the show. GOT A QUESTION? Ask us via voice message: speakpipe.com/gurpstalk Ask us via an email: gurpstalk@pm.me PAT'S BLOG: Processing GURPS – Enabling Longform, Immersive TTRPG play using GURPS OR https://processinggurps.com/ RPR PATREON: patreon.com/rpgrescue THANKS: Jon from Tale of the Manticore for the music: https://taleofthemanticore.podbean.com/ Logo by MJ Hiblen: https://www.patreon.com/MJHiblenART/ DISCLAIMER & NOTICE: The material presented here is our original creation, intended for use with the GURPS system from Steve Jackson Games. This material is not official and is not endorsed by Steve Jackson Games. GURPS is a registered trademark of Steve Jackson Games, and any GURPS art here is copyrighted by Steve Jackson Games. All rights are reserved by SJ Games. This material is used here in accordance with the SJ Games online policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min
  6. 9 MAR

    Owed T' Alex

    Focused on discussing GURPS (Generic Universal RolePlaying System) campaign management, particularly around random encounters and travel mechanics. Pat and Che share their experiences running campaigns, with Che describing his approach to Karameikos where he uses modified D&D encounter tables and implements a 4-hour watch system for travel. They discuss how to handle random encounters, with Pat emphasising the importance of pacing and world-building through encounters rather than simply rolling dice. The conversation also covers how to create NPCs and monsters in GURPS, with both Pat and Che agreeing that starting with a description rather than stats works best. Thanks to Alex... who called in three times. Thanks for listening and supporting the show. GOT A QUESTION? Ask us via voice message: speakpipe.com/gurpstalk Ask us via an email: gurpstalk@pm.me PAT'S BLOG: Processing GURPS – Enabling Longform, Immersive TTRPG play using GURPS OR https://processinggurps.com/ RPR PATREON: patreon.com/rpgrescue THANKS: Jon from Tale of the Manticore for the music: https://taleofthemanticore.podbean.com/ Logo by MJ Hiblen: https://www.patreon.com/MJHiblenART/ DISCLAIMER & NOTICE: The material presented here is our original creation, intended for use with the GURPS system from Steve Jackson Games. This material is not official and is not endorsed by Steve Jackson Games. GURPS is a registered trademark of Steve Jackson Games, and any GURPS art here is copyrighted by Steve Jackson Games. All rights are reserved by SJ Games. This material is used here in accordance with the SJ Games online policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1hr 5min

About

Co-hosts Che Webster (Roleplay Rescue) and Patrick Mullen (processinggurps.com) talk about GURPS - the Generic Universal Role-Playing System published by Steve Jackson Games - and using it to run long-form roleplaying campaigns. We discuss topics arising from using the game system aimed at intermediate users of the rules who wish to progress towards deeper and more immersive role-play in whatever fictional worlds they imagine. The material presented here is our original creation, intended for use with the GURPS system from Steve Jackson Games. This material is not official and is not endorsed by Steve Jackson Games. GURPS is a registered trademark of Steve Jackson Games, and any GURPS art here is copyrighted by Steve Jackson Games. All rights are reserved by SJ Games. This material is used here in accordance with the SJ Games online policy. GURPStalk logo by MJ Hiblen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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