Reviews
Reviews
Thoughtful takes from behind the screen. We test books, dice, and table tools in real play—then tell you what’s worth bringing to the table.
Featured Reviews
Does this make running or playing the game better?
Hand-picked highlights and recent additions. (Swap these placeholders for your real post links.)
2024 Player’s Handbook Review
What’s changed, what’s improved, and what it means at the table.
Books & Adventures
Stranger Things Starter Set Review
A nostalgia-forward boxed set—does it teach the game well?
Books & Adventures
Sunshard Dice Review
Readability, feel, balance, and table presence—tested in play.
Dice & Table Gear
Heroes of the Borderlands Review
How usable is it for a busy DM, and how fun is it for players?
Books & Adventures
Fan Roll: Shadow Light Dice & Tray Bundle
Form factor, durability, and whether the bundle actually adds value.
Dice & Table Gear
Forgotten Realms: Adventures in Faerûn Review
DM-facing usability and player-facing appeal—separated cleanly.
Books & Adventures
What You’ll Find Here
🎲 Dice & Table Gear
We look at materials, balance, readability, and table presence—tested in actual sessions, not just on camera.
📚 Books & Adventures
Rulebooks, starter sets, settings, and third-party adventures—reviewed for clarity, usability, and table impact.
🧰 Tools for Dungeon Masters
Digital tools and physical aids evaluated on prep time saved, friction reduced, and flexibility at the table.
How We Review
- Table-Tested: Products are used in live sessions whenever possible.
- Context Matters: We note who it’s best for—new DMs, veterans, or players.
- Clear Disclosure: If something was provided for review, we say so.
- Constructive Criticism: Honest feedback with practical takeaways.
Who These Reviews Are For
- Dungeon Masters deciding where to spend limited prep time or budget
- Players curious about dice, tools, and supplements
- Creators who value honest, thoughtful feedback
- Anyone who wants recommendations grounded in actual play, not marketing copy
Quick Note on Tone
We’re not here to dunk on products. We’re here to help you make confident choices—and to celebrate the stuff that genuinely improves play.
Looking for Something Specific?
Campaign Inspiration
Want story-first posts and session arcs?
Guides & Creation Tools
Homebrew walkthroughs and practical how-tos.
DM Philosophy & Design
Why we build campaigns the way we do.
Disclosure: Some products reviewed on Tales & Tankards are provided by publishers or creators for evaluation. This does not influence our opinions. If we recommend something, it’s because it earned its place at the table.
Dispel Dice: Exsanguinated Dice Review
The Dispel Dice Exsanguinated set is one of the most striking dice collections I’ve ever rolled. Its deep crimson swirls evoke freshly spilled blood suspended in crystal, making it a perfect fit for gothic horror and vampire-themed campaigns. While the dark numbering can make readability challenging under typical game room lighting, exceptional craftsmanship, balanced rolls, and unforgettable table presence make this premium set an easy recommendation.
Read Review →: Dispel Dice: Exsanguinated Dice ReviewRecent Reviews
Read out thoughts on stuff.
Lunch Break Heroes: Librus Nocturnum Review
Awesome Dice – Blue Geode Dice Review
