Dragonlance Hangout – January 7th, 2026

Welcome to today’s Dragonlance Hangout! This is a casual series where we discuss all things Dragonlance, from characters, to modules, to game editions in a relaxed conversation with the live audience. Today I am discussing TTRPG actual plays and paid games. https://youtube.com/live/li4JAhXcgJE Show Notes Intro Welcome to another DragonLance Hangout! It is Kirinor, Newkolt the 7th, and my name is Adam. Today I am discussing the forthcoming DLSaga Anthology and my process of writing! I would like to take a moment and thank the DLSaga YouTube members, and Patreon patrons and invite you to consider becoming a member or patron. You can even pick up Dragonlance media using my affiliate links in the description below. Discussion DLSaga Anthology https://dlsaga.com/contributors/4,000–7,500 words preferredNotifications sent by March 1, 2026 1. Actual Plays: Entertainment or Tabletop Gaming? Opening Framing Thought Actual plays began as a way to share a game—but they’ve evolved into a distinct form of fantasy entertainment. Key Contrast Playing a Game Agency, immersion, personal stakesMessy, slow moments are part of the funThe story belongs to you Watching an Actual Play Passive, narrative-focusedEdited (or performed) for pacingThe story belongs to the cast Prompt “Is watching an actual play closer to playing D&D… or closer to watching a fantasy series set in a D&D world?” Dragonlance Angle Dragonlance is deeply narrative and character-drivenWatching fits well for fans who love the lore but don’t want rules overheadPlaying hits harder for those who want to leave a mark on Krynn 2. Do People Enjoy Playing Online More Than Watching? Why People Prefer Playing You matter to the outcomeEmotional investment is strongerEspecially powerful in settings like Dragonlance where legacy, honor, and tragedy matter Why People Prefer Watching No scheduling stressNo social anxietyHigh-quality storytelling without homeworkYou can love Krynn without knowing THAC0 Question “If you could only choose one—would you rather be in Krynn, or observe it being explored by others?” 3. Paid Games vs Free Games (StartPlaying, etc.) This is where things get spicy—and relevant to a lot of viewers. Why Players Try Paid Games Consistent schedulingExperienced, prepared GMClear expectationsSafety tools and table normsEspecially appealing for online-only players What Players Expect From a Paid Game Compared to free games, players often expect: Paid Game Expectations Strong session prep and continuityClear campaign directionSpotlight balanceProfessional table managementRespect for player timeStable tone (very important for Dragonlance) Free Game Expectations More flexibilityMore chaosOften more forgiving of rough edges“We’re here to have fun” energy Question “Is paying for a game paying for quality… or paying for reliability?” 4. What Should a Paid Dragonlance Game Deliver? This is a great moment to subtly establish your philosophy as a DM. Dragonlance-Specific Expectations Respect for established lore (without being shackled by it)Epic stakes, not kitchen-sink chaosMeaningful moral choices (Good, Evil, and the gray between)Consequences that matterCharacters who feel like they belong in Krynn—not generic fantasy avatars Discussion Prompt “If you paid to play in Dragonlance, what would feel like a betrayal of the setting?” 5. Does Any of This Matter to Viewers? Short answer: Yes—but not in the way players think. What Viewers Care About Chemistry at the tableEmotional authenticityClear character motivationsMomentum and pacingRespect for the world What Viewers Don’t Usually Care About Whether the game is paid or freePerfect rules accuracyWho ‘won’ the encounter Key Insight Viewers can feel professionalism, even if they don’t know why. A paid-level game often produces: Better focusFewer derailmentsStronger narrative arcs Which—ironically—makes it better viewing. 6. The Big Question “Are actual plays about showcasing a game… or showcasing a Dungeon Master’s philosophy?” And for Dragonlance specifically: “Is Krynn better experienced as a place you visit… or a story you watch unfold?” Chat Polls Would you rather: Play online or Watch an actual playHave you ever paid for a game? Yes / No / Would ConsiderWhat matters more: Lore Accuracy or Good StoryShould Dragonlance games stick close to canon? Yes / No / Depends Outro And that is all the time we have to hangout today. What do you think of actual plays? Would you ever pay to play a TTRPG? And finally, what is your favorite system to play Dragonlance in? Feel free to email me at [e-mail] or comment below. I would like to take a moment and remind you to subscribe to this YouTube channel, ring the bell to get notified about upcoming videos and click the like button. This all goes to help other Dragonlance fans learn about this channel and its content. Thank you Creator Patron Aaron Hardy, Producer Patron Azrael, and Developer Patron ...