Hapless Heroes

Hapless Heroes

Welcome to the Hapless Heroes Podcast - a dynamic D&D actual play show that boldly fuses improv comedy with the rule-of-cool! Experience a variety of stories in a universe governed by rotating DMs and vibrant homebrewed settings. Here, extraordinary tales unfold through spontaneous humor, epic failures, and the seemingly endless imagination of the players and game masters. So, gather your dice and friends, and join us as we embark on fantastical journeys together every week! read less

Our Editor's Take

Listeners are in for an epic adventure with the Hapless Heroes podcast. Dungeon Master Dave leads a group of actors through Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) role-playing games (RPG). Each actor improvises what their characters say as they go through creative scenarios. Their adventures result in improbable situations with hilarious commentary.

The troupe isn't afraid of terrible things happening to the characters. With fantasy and cosmic settings, the Hapless Heroes podcast allows for all kinds of unfortunate events. The dice rolls for big decisions and events introduce a facet of random chaos. Actors use their wits and improvisational skills to embrace every new development. It's never long before everyone at the table is laughing.

Every podcast episode starts with Dave introducing the cast and characters. Sometimes, the cast will change between episodes, keeping the storytelling fresh. Dave then sets the stage for where the characters are in the adventure. Then the next chapter begins. It can take a few minutes for the actors to get into the action. Soon, the characters start talking to each other. Their conversations can be engrossing, irreverent, and hilarious. RPG fans may feel engaged and invested in the characters and their story arc. Even listeners who are new to D&D may find themselves wanting to play a game.

Hapless Heroes has impressive production quality. The music and sound effects help punctuate changes and create an engaging atmosphere. When characters find themselves in space, a low hum mimics a ship's engine. Every actor embraces their role with a true commitment to voice acting. Dave's detailed explanations also help illustrate scenes for the actors and listeners. Together, these elements immerse the listener in the adventure.

Hapless Heroes broadcasts from Buffalo, New York. The podcast started in October 2016. Season two began in October 2023, and it airs weekly.

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Episodes