 |
Tabletop Tune UpAuthor: Ben Dyer and Mark Lehman
Here's a podcast for you, the rpg gamemaster (or dungeonmaster). Join your hosts and GMs Ben Dyer and Mark Lehman as they give you the short-form tips and tricks on how to make your rpg adventures easier for you and more fun for everyone.Theme music by Suno, cover image by Dall-E. Language: en Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
Listen Now...
Let's Build a Magic Item
Episode 57
Tuesday, 17 February, 2026
In this week's episode, Mark and Ben build a magic item. Yes, it's time to put all our theory to work and actually build something for use at the table. We've attached the description below, and we hope you'll tune in to hear our thinking about how we made the choices that gave this item its history, special features, and thematic connection to our example Paladin. Tune in and learn how easy it can be to craft special items for your game.Shield of St. ArtivanIntended Character: 3rd Level PaladinItem Role: Fix party balance, add religious loreItem Features: Wielder gains Advantage on checks to resist involuntary movement. Allows another friendly character within 5 feet of the shield's bearer to use their reaction to move five feet in any direction without provoking opportunity attacks. The character may use this ability a number of times equal to their proficiency bonus per long rest.Item Level Range: 3+Item History: The Shield of St. Artivan belonged to a Paladin renowned for his courage. He gave his life guarding a bridge, protecting the fleeing citizens of a town fallen to marauding monsters. They eventually overtook him, but all who fled from the town of Vilstad remembered his heroic sacrifice. The shield is a standard heater shield with the insignia of the Order of Ilye. Although its edges are battered and scarred, its escutcheon remains unblemished.
