Saving Throes # 93 - 2025 Monster Manual First Impressions

Welcome to the Saving Throes podcast! This is my Tabletop role-playing game podcast, part of the Red Rooster's Gaming Coop network where I talk gaming and gaming culture every week. Each episode will feature a topic or theme along with my take on current happenings in the world of tabletop role-playing games and semi regular updates on the games I am currently involved with, or new games or products I have come across.

The final core rulebook in the revised 204/2025 D&D 5e lineup is now out at local game stores and soon to be everywhere. I picked up my copy recently and have had some time to look through it, compare it against what has come before, and particularly against what we had with its 2014 counterpart. I've got some good news.... but I also have some bad news. Much like the PHB and DMG before it, there are some missed opportunities in my opinion, but still, there is enough to like here as well that it might make you scratch your head a bit. If you have the original 5e 2014 core rulebooks, don't throw those out just yet! However, don't completely write these ones off either, particularly the new Monster Manual. Tune in to hear my thoughts, and how you just might be able to make the new 2025 Manual sing with your original 2014 MM. Also, stay tuned to the end for a fun little Valentine's Day treat!

If you would like to reach out, you can reach me at redroostersgamingcoop@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you!

Follow me on X: @RedRoosterGC