The Game Design Round Table

Dirk Knemeyer & David V. Heron
  • 4.8 (146)
  • DESIGN
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Covering the full breadth of digital, tabletop, and role playing games, The Game Design Round Table inspires and educates aspiring and experienced game designers.

  1. 19H AGO

    Season: RPG - Cthulhu fhtagn! with Mike Mason

    In this episode of the RPG series, hosts Dirk Knemeyer and David Heron are joined by Mike Mason, creative director of Call of Cthulhu at Chaosium. Together, they explore what makes Call of Cthulhu such a lasting and unique RPG experience, how it has remained relevant for decades, and the challenges of evolving a beloved game without losing its essence. Mike also shares his approach to feedback, organizing playtest groups, and designing editions that keep players engaged. A must-listen for fans of horror roleplay and anyone curious about the craft of sustaining an iconic RPG.

    54 min

  2. SEP 9

    BtC - Matthew Dunstan on Making and Nurturing Connections with Publishers

    In this episode of Behind the Cardboard, host Ellie Dix sits down with prolific designer Matthew Dunstan, co-designer of Battle for Boulders, to talk about the art of building and maintaining relationships with publishers. They explore why nurturing these connections is so valuable, strategies for starting relationships without prior contacts, and how to strike the right balance between persistence and pressure. Ellie and Matthew also share their own positive experiences with publishers and discuss how these relationships play a role even in self-publishing. A practical and insightful conversation for anyone navigating the world of game design.

    46 min

  3. SEP 2

    Season: RPG - Interlude: The Second Round Table

    In this RPG interlude, hosts Dirk Knemeyer and David Heron return to the table to revisit some of the big conversations from recent episodes. From the debate over whether RPGs are best enjoyed for combat or storytelling, to how “serious games” balance education and fun, they unpack listener feedback and expand on earlier ideas. The discussion also touches on the evolving structure of RPG categories and the dynamic relationship between designers and GMs. A reflective, thought-provoking round table that keeps the conversation going.

    44 min

  4. AUG 26

    BtC with April Mitchell on Sizzle Reels

    In this episode of Behind the Cardboard, host Ellie Dix chats with game designer April Mitchell about the power of sizzle reels in pitching and promoting games. April breaks down what makes a great sizzle reel, from highlighting the right features to keeping things visually engaging. They discuss the do’s and don’ts of showcasing your game on video, along with practical tips for making your reel stand out. A perfect listen for designers looking to bring their games to life on screen.

    42 min

  5. AUG 19

    Season: RPG - GM as Designer with Justin Alexander

    In this episode of the RPG series, hosts Dirk Knemeyer and David Heron are joined by Justin Alexander , a renowned game designer and thought leader in tabletop RPGs. Known for his influential essays and innovative GM techniques, Justin shares insights into the role of the Game Master as designer. They dive into how GMs can connect narrative ideas to mechanics, the philosophies behind crafting memorable RPG experiences, and the challenges new GMs often face. Whether you’re building worlds or running them, this episode offers practical tools and deep design wisdom.

    1h 2m

  6. AUG 12

    BtC with Fertessa Allyse on Sell Sheets

    In this episode of Behind the Cardboard, host Ellie Dix talks with game designer Fertessa Allyse, known for Wicked & Wise and Cascadia Junior. They dive into the world of sell sheets—why they matter, what to include, and how to craft one that grabs attention. Fertessa shares tips on outlining your game effectively, finding its unique hook, and blending your elevator pitch seamlessly into the design. Whether you’re prepping for a pitch meeting or just curious about the business side of game design, this episode is packed with practical advice.

    50 min

  7. AUG 5

    Season: RPG - Interlude: Welcome to Willowbank

    David and Dirk go over David’s newest project, Willow Bank. Revolving around DnD, (for all of you DnD enthusiasts), they have a captivating conversation on the flaws of DnD and create a vein of discussion for these topics.

    56 min

  8. JUL 30

    Season: RPG - Listener Question

    Today, Dirk and David come together to answer some listener questions from the Discord. Most of these questions surround RPG’s, although the discussions branch out into deeper waters, as the two of them dissect some of the themes brought up by various listeners.

    1h 3m
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4.8
out of 5
146 Ratings

About

Covering the full breadth of digital, tabletop, and role playing games, The Game Design Round Table inspires and educates aspiring and experienced game designers.

Information

  • Creator
    Dirk Knemeyer & David V. Heron
  • Years Active
    2012 - 2025
  • Episodes
    366
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ℗ & © 2019 The Game Design Round Table
  • Show Website
    The Game Design Round Table

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