Jackmonkey Games and Media

Author: jmonkey

  • D&D Orcs vs. Warhammer 40K Orks – A Tale of Two Green Hordes

    D&D Orcs vs. Warhammer 40K Orks – A Tale of Two Green Hordes

    Few creatures in gaming lore are as iconic — or as gloriously green — as the humble Orc. Whether you’re battling them in Dungeons & Dragons or unleashing them across the grimdark universe of Warhammer 40,000, these brutish beings embody the raw power and chaos that make tabletop gaming so exciting. But while they share a name (and a fondness for shouting and smashing things), D&D’s Orcs and Warhammer’s Orks are entirely different beasts.

    The Dungeons & Dragons Orc: Brutal, Tragic, and Deeply Mythic

    In Dungeons & Dragons, Orcs are a cornerstone of fantasy storytelling. They’re often portrayed as savage warriors, driven by primal rage and a devotion to their god, Gruumsh — the one-eyed deity who fuels their endless lust for battle. But over the years, especially in modern editions like D&D 5th Edition, the Orc has evolved beyond being just a faceless enemy.

    Players now encounter Orcs as complex people — tribal, spiritual, and proud. Many campaigns explore their struggle between honour and brutality, often challenging the old stereotype of Orcs as mere villains. A Dungeon Master might introduce an Orc shaman wrestling with visions from Gruumsh or a warrior seeking redemption in a human world that fears his kind.

    Physically, D&D Orcs are muscular, tusked, and imposing — but still bound by the rules of magic and mythology. Their strength lies in unity and sheer ferocity, not in strange science or cosmic chaos.

    The Warhammer 40K Ork: Green, Loud, and Lovin’ a Good Scrap

    Now, shift your gaze 38,000 years into the future, and things get loud. In the universe of Warhammer 40K, Orks (note the “k” — because of course they can’t spell properly) are an entirely different creation. They’re not mere fantasy creatures — they’re a genetically engineered species of fungi-warriors designed for war. Every Ork, from the smallest Gretchin to the biggest Warboss, lives for one thing: a good scrap.

    Warhammer 40K Orks are a riot of British humour and anarchic energy. They believe that things work because they thinkthey do. Paint a vehicle red, and it goes faster. Strap enough guns together, and it becomes a “dakka machine.” Their crude but effective technology runs on pure belief, making them one of the most bizarre — and beloved — factions in the entire Warhammer universe.

    In short, D&D Orcs are tragic warriors of myth; Warhammer 40K Orks are gleeful agents of chaos in space. Both are brutal, both are fascinating, and both are perfect reflections of their respective worlds.

    Two Worlds, One Green Legacy

    Whether you’re rolling dice in a dimly lit tavern or unleashing a Waaagh! on the battlefield, Orcs and Orks remind us of what makes tabletop gaming so enduring — the joy of storytelling, imagination, and just a touch of madness.

    And if you’re keen to explore the green tide for yourself, check out LithGeek — a great place to pick up Warhammer miniatures, gaming PCs, and accessories. For those in the Blue Mountains or Lithgow area, Lost Souls Bookshop is a top spot to grab RPG books, miniatures, and maybe even a few battle-worn dice.

  • Going Back to Painting Warhammer after 30 years

    Its been 30 years I think sense I played Warhammer 40K. At the time I was broke and really did not have enough time.

    Now that I am doing better financially and have a little more time .. Spending time away from computers is even more important. As an artist I am happiest when I am painting. I also enjoy a good game. Warhammer 40k seems to be the best option for this especially when I spend a lot of time fixing computers between Katoomba, Leura and Bathurst

    Painting is different from canvas

    While I was thinking that painting Warhammer 40000 would be like a 3D coloring book I have discovered it does take a bit more skill than I remember. Sure I can paint a large canvas .. but a mini?

    As an artist I do strive for perfection when it comes to my art. But this was something else. the point of painting the minis was not to empress a client but to enjoy the process. So I have decided that is exactly what I am going to do.

    Warhammer 40000 Starter set , Lithgow Katoomba, Bathurst

    Enjoy every mistake

    When you take the pressure of having to impress a client and paint for the sake of painting it makes the whole process more enjoyable.

    I started with painting Space Marines and Tyrinids. While I do enjoy the UltraMarines as a unit during game play. I find the Tyrinids more enjoyable to paint.

    I like the textures and plates of the Tyrinids more than anything else. As a unit I think that they are ok … Not exactly sure if I will work on that Army for my personal units.

    Orks on the other hand look fun to paint and would be a unit that I would enjoy playing in my Warhammer 40k Army

  • Choosing Your First Dungeons & Dragons Character Class

    One of the most exciting parts of Dungeons & Dragons is choosing your character’s class. Think of a class like your hero’s job or specialty—it shapes how you fight, solve problems, and interact with the world. Whether you want to swing a sword, cast spells, or sneak in the shadows, there’s a class that fits your style.

    Let’s explore the most common classes and how they play differently.

    Fighter

    Fighters are tough, skilled in weapons, and can take a hit. They’re great for beginners because they’re easy to understand and super flexible. Want to be a noble knight or a battle-scarred mercenary? Fighter’s got you covered.

    Wizard

    Wizards have powerful magic, but they’re squishy—meaning they can get knocked out fast if not careful. Great for players who love strategy, puzzles, and planning ahead. You’ll manage a spellbook and choose the right spell for the moment.

    Rogue

    If sneaking, stealing, and backstabbing sound fun, the Rogue is for you. They’re clever and agile, great at avoiding danger and doing cool tricks like disarming traps. Rogues shine in social and stealthy missions.

    Cleric

    Clerics are divine spellcasters who can heal and protect their allies—or bring divine wrath to their enemies. They’re great team players, and their magic can fit many play styles depending on their god or domain.

    Barbarian

    Barbarians are angry tanks who charge into battle, smashing everything in their path. They’re perfect for players who want to keep things simple but powerful.

    But Here’s the Best Part…

    You don’t have to stick to the “typical” way to play any class. Want to play a cowardly Barbarian or a sneaky Cleric? Go for it! Dungeons & Dragons is all about creativity and telling your own story.

    If you’re in the Lithgow area, be sure to visit Lost Souls Bookshop. They’ve got rulebooks, dice, and the owner lovesto chat about D&D—perfect for new and experienced players alike!

    To learn more about classes and character building, visit the official D&D site here.

    This blog post is sponsored by Lithgeek.com, your go-to place for Katoomba gaming pc repairs, builds, and expert tech help.

  • So You Want to Start Playing Dungeons & Dragons?

    If you’ve ever dreamed of battling dragons, solving ancient puzzles, or sneaking through a castle under the moonlight, then Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) might be your perfect hobby. This legendary tabletop role-playing game (RPG) lets you become a hero in your own fantasy story—with just a pencil, some dice, and a bit of imagination.

    What Is D&D All About?

    Dungeons & Dragons is a storytelling game where you and your friends create characters and go on adventures together. One player is the Dungeon Master (DM), who acts as the storyteller and referee. The rest of the group plays as heroes—like wizards, fighters, rogues, or clerics. Together, you explore mysterious places, face monsters, and make choices that shape the story.

    You can check out the official D&D website here.

    What Do You Need to Start?

    Getting into D&D is easier than you might think! Here’s what you’ll need:

    1. The Basic Rules – You can download a free PDF of the basic rules from the D&D website.
    2. A Set of Dice – Most importantly, a 20-sided die (called a d20).
    3. Character Sheet – A simple form where you keep track of your character’s stats and gear.
    4. Friends to Play With – You’ll need a group of 3-5 players and someone willing to be the DM.

    If you prefer physical books and gear, consider checking out Lost Souls Bookshop, a great local spot for gaming supplies.

    Tips for First-Time Players

    • Don’t worry about memorizing all the rules. Focus on having fun and telling a great story.
    • Ask questions! Most D&D players love helping new adventurers learn the ropes.
    • Start with a one-shot (a short adventure) before jumping into a full campaign.

    Find a Group

    If you don’t have friends nearby who play, try joining a game online or at your local game store. You can even find D&D groups on social media or Discord servers.

    This blog post is sponsored by Lithgeek.com, your local tech experts for custom gaming pc builds and support.

  • Top 10 Cooperative Board Games for Team Players

    Top 10 Cooperative Board Games for Team Players

    Cooperative board games are the ultimate way to foster teamwork, strategy, and camaraderie. Instead of competing against each other, players band together to overcome a shared challenge—whether it’s saving the world, surviving a zombie apocalypse, or navigating a fantastical quest. Here are the top 10 co-op board games that promise endless hours of fun and strategic gameplay.

    1. Pandemic

    A modern classic, Pandemic tasks players with saving the world from deadly diseases. As members of a disease control team, you’ll work together to research cures, treat outbreaks, and prevent global chaos. It’s a must-play for fans of strategy and problem-solving.

    2. Gloomhaven

    This epic campaign game is a blend of strategy and storytelling. Players take on the roles of adventurers exploring a dark, dangerous world filled with enemies and treasure. Gloomhaven is perfect for those who enjoy long-term character development and immersive narratives.

    3. Spirit Island

    Defend your island from colonizing invaders by harnessing the power of nature. Spirit Island flips traditional colonialist themes on their head, offering a deeply strategic and thematic co-op experience.

    4. Arkham Horror: The Card Game

    Step into the eerie world of H.P. Lovecraft with this narrative-driven card game. Players investigate mysteries, battle otherworldly creatures, and struggle to maintain their sanity. Perfect for fans of horror and suspense.

    5. Forbidden Island

    In this family-friendly game, players work together to collect treasures from a sinking island. With easy-to-learn rules and quick gameplay, Forbidden Island is great for players of all ages.

    6. The Crew: Quest for Planet Nine

    This innovative trick-taking card game requires players to complete specific missions together. The Crew is simple to learn but challenging to master, making it a favorite for casual and experienced gamers alike.

    7. Betrayal Legacy

    While not strictly cooperative throughout, Betrayal Legacy starts with players working together to explore a haunted mansion. The twist? One player often becomes the traitor, adding suspense and unpredictability.

    8. Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island

    Survive on a deserted island in this highly thematic game. Players must gather resources, build shelter, and overcome challenges as they face the perils of island life.

    9. Marvel Champions: The Card Game

    Step into the shoes of your favorite Marvel heroes and work together to thwart villains in this action-packed card game. With customizable decks and expansions, Marvel Champions offers endless replayability.

    10. Shadows Over Camelot

    Set in the Arthurian legend, this semi-cooperative game has players working as knights to defend Camelot. However, there’s a twist—a potential traitor in your midst adds intrigue and tension to every decision.

    Why Co-op Board Games Are a Hit

    Cooperative board games bring players together in unique and exciting ways. They’re perfect for fostering teamwork, building friendships, and enjoying shared victories—or commiserating over shared defeats! Whether you’re new to co-op games or a seasoned player, these titles are guaranteed to deliver unforgettable experiences.

    Which of these co-op games is your favorite? Let us know in the comments or suggest others you think belong on this list!

  • Exploring the World of Card Games: From Magic: The Gathering to Munchkin

    Card games are a fantastic way to bring people together, challenge your strategic thinking, and dive into imaginative worlds. Whether you’re a fantasy enthusiast, a competitive strategist, or someone looking for a fun party game, there’s a card game for you. Let’s explore four popular card games, how they’re played, and who might enjoy them.

    1. Magic: The Gathering

    How to Play: Magic: The Gathering (MTG) is a collectible card game where players assume the role of powerful wizards, casting spells, summoning creatures, and using artifacts to defeat opponents. Players build their decks with a mix of lands, spells, and creatures, aiming to reduce their opponent’s life total from 20 to 0.

    Who Should Play: MTG is perfect for fans of strategy and fantasy who enjoy deck-building and competitive play. It’s great for casual matches or intense tournaments.

    2. Munchkin

    How to Play: Munchkin is a lighthearted, humorous card game where players delve into a dungeon, defeat monsters, and grab loot. The goal is to reach Level 10 before anyone else. Players can sabotage each other with curses and sneaky plays, adding a chaotic twist.

    Who Should Play: Munchkin is ideal for groups of friends or family who love humor, fantasy, and a less serious gaming experience.

    3. Uno

    How to Play: Uno is a classic card game where players take turns matching cards by color or number, aiming to be the first to discard all their cards. Special action cards like Reverse, Skip, and Draw Two add a strategic element to the fast-paced fun.

    Who Should Play: Uno is great for all ages and works well in family settings or casual gatherings. It’s easy to learn and endlessly entertaining.

    4. Exploding Kittens

    How to Play: Exploding Kittens is a quirky card game where players take turns drawing cards while trying to avoid the dreaded Exploding Kitten card. Players use special cards to defuse, skip, or peek into the deck, adding a layer of strategy to the chaos.

    Who Should Play: This game is perfect for fans of quick, hilarious gameplay and those who enjoy a bit of risk and unpredictability.

    Why Card Games Are for Everyone

    From deep strategy in Magic: The Gathering to laugh-out-loud fun in Munchkin and Exploding Kittens, card games cater to all kinds of players. Whether you’re new to gaming or a seasoned veteran, there’s always a card game to match your style.

    Looking for your next favorite card game? Give one of these a try and experience the joy of playing cards with friends and family.

  • Cards Against Humanity: The Party Game for Horrible People

    Cards Against Humanity: The Party Game for Horrible People

    Looking for a hilarious, irreverent party game to liven up your next gathering? Cards Against Humanity is the ultimate icebreaker and a guaranteed source of belly laughs. Known as “a party game for horrible people,” this game thrives on absurdity, sarcasm, and dark humor. Whether you’re a first-time player or a seasoned fan, here’s everything you need to know about playing Cards Against Humanity and its intriguing history.

    How to Play Cards Against Humanity

    The rules are simple:

    1. Each player starts with 10 white cards featuring quirky, bizarre, or downright inappropriate phrases.
    2. The game rotates through players acting as the “Card Czar,” who picks a black card with a fill-in-the-blank or question.
    3. Everyone else submits a white card they think makes the funniest, most absurd, or most shocking combination.
    4. The Card Czar picks their favorite white card, and the winner gets a point.

    Play continues until players decide to stop—or when everyone is laughing too hard to continue! Expansions are available, adding fresh content to keep the game outrageous.

    Personally, I am way too good at this game and I wonder what it says about my character. Can I really call myself Nutral Good?

    A Brief History

    Cards Against Humanity was created in 2011 by a group of friends led by Max Temkin. Initially funded through a Kickstarter campaign, the game quickly gained popularity for its bold, unapologetic humor. Today, it’s a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless expansions and spin-offs.

    The creators describe it as a “game for terrible people,” but it’s also a reflection of today’s zeitgeist—poking fun at pop culture, politics, and everything in between.

    Where to Get It

    You can buy Cards Against Humanity and its expansions directly from their official website: cardsagainsthumanity.com.

    Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to spice up game night, Cards Against Humanity is a surefire way to keep things lively. Just remember—it’s not for the faint of heart!

  • The Eternal Struggle: Scheduling Games as an Adult Gamer

    The Eternal Struggle: Scheduling Games as an Adult Gamer

    Gathering a group of adventurers to save the kingdom is hard enough in Dungeons & Dragons. Add the challenge of aligning adult schedules, and it can feel like a quest designed by the cruelest Dungeon Master. For adult gamers, juggling work, family, and life commitments often means scheduling the next game session is harder than defeating a dragon.

    But why is scheduling such a pain?

    The Scheduling Conundrum

    The problem boils down to competing priorities. Most adults have demanding jobs, school, kids, or other hobbies that vie for their time. Unlike when you were younger and could game into the night, adulthood comes with responsibilities. And let’s not forget unexpected emergencies or illnesses. Suddenly, that perfectly planned game night gets derailed.

    In tabletop RPGs like D&D or the Cypher System, consistent attendance matters. Missing just one player can break immersion or disrupt key story beats. It’s especially tricky in story-driven games like Shadowrun, where the team’s hacker or face missing a session could mean rewriting half the mission.

    Finding Solutions

    While scheduling may never be easy, here are a few tricks to make it manageable:

    1. Pick a Regular Day: Choosing a consistent day (like every other Friday) creates a predictable routine. Everyone knows to keep that time blocked off.
    2. Use Scheduling Tools: Apps like Doodle or Google Calendar make it easy to find overlapping availability for busy adults. If tech-savvy, even Discord bots can help with reminders.
    3. Embrace Flexibility: If someone can’t make it, have a backup plan. Perhaps you play a one-shot using a lightweight system like Star-Fall RPG’s Open D6, or run a side story to keep momentum alive.
    4. Play Virtually: Online platforms like Roll20 and Foundry VTT allow players to join from anywhere, cutting out commuting time.

    Scheduling may always be an obstacle, but with patience and creativity, it’s one that can be overcome. After all, the bonds formed around the gaming table make the effort worthwhile.

  • Using Software to Enhance Your RPG Game

    Using Software to Enhance Your RPG Game

    Running a tabletop RPG like Dungeons and Dragons or Shadowrun can be a thrilling yet demanding experience. Keeping track of initiative orders, NPC stats, player character sheets, and sprawling maps can leave even the most prepared Game Master (GM) feeling overwhelmed. Thankfully, a variety of software tools are available to make your RPG sessions smoother and more immersive. Let’s explore how you can use software to level up your game—no paid endorsements here, just honest recommendations!

    Virtual Tabletops (VTTs): Immersive Worlds at Your Fingertips

    Virtual tabletops like Roll20 or Foundry VTT are indispensable for GMs running games online. These platforms allow you to upload custom maps, create dynamic lighting effects, and manage character sheets, all in one place. Even for in-person games, a VTT displayed on a large screen or tablet can add a modern twist to the classic tabletop vibe. For example, you could use Roll20 to streamline your Cypher System encounters, ensuring that players can roll dice and track Effort without flipping through rulebooks.

    Learn more about VTTs and how to pick one that works for you.

    Campaign Management Software: Stay Organized

    If you’re juggling multiple NPCs, plot threads, and session notes, campaign management tools like Notion or World Anvil can be lifesavers. With these programs, you can link lore, character backstories, and session recaps in a cohesive and searchable way. Using software for campaign management is especially helpful in systems like Star-Fall RPG, where worldbuilding is often as important as combat.

    Dice Rollers and Automation Tools: Speed Things Up

    For GMs who dread doing mental math on the fly, dice-rolling apps like D&D Beyond or DiceCloud are game-changers. These tools not only automate dice rolls but can also calculate modifiers and track ongoing effects. In systems like Shadowrun, where dice pools and edge points are integral to the game, a digital roller can keep gameplay moving at a steady pace.

    Embrace the Balance

    While software can make RPGs more manageable, it’s essential to strike a balance. Don’t let the tech overshadow the storytelling and face-to-face connections that make tabletop RPGs so special. Test tools before your game, and ensure everyone is comfortable using them.

    Looking to incorporate more tools into your sessions? Check out this guide to RPG tech essentials.

  • From Tabletop to Digital: The Evolution of RPG Games

    Role-playing games (RPGs) have long captivated the imaginations of players around the world. These games, initially played with pen and paper around a table, have a rich history of storytelling, strategy, and collaborative play. With the advent of technology, many beloved tabletop RPGs have been successfully converted into computer games, bringing these intricate worlds to an even wider audience. In this blog post, we will explore the journey of RPGs from tabletop to digital, highlighting some notable examples and the impact of this evolution.

    The Origins of Tabletop RPGs

    Tabletop RPGs emerged in the 1970s with the release of “Dungeons & Dragons” (D&D), a game that allowed players to create characters, embark on adventures, and shape narratives through their decisions and dice rolls. The game’s creators, Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson, pioneered a new genre that blended fantasy storytelling with strategic gameplay. The success of D&D spawned a multitude of other tabletop RPGs, each offering unique settings, mechanics, and stories.

    The Digital Revolution

    As computers became more advanced and accessible, the potential to translate the rich, immersive experiences of tabletop RPGs into digital formats became apparent. Early attempts in the 1980s and 1990s laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving genre in the gaming industry. Here are some key milestones in the evolution of RPGs from tabletop to digital:

    1. Baldur’s Gate (1998)

    One of the most iconic examples of a successful tabletop-to-digital conversion is “Baldur’s Gate.” Developed by BioWare and published by Interplay, this game brought the world of D&D to life on the computer screen. Using the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition ruleset, “Baldur’s Gate” offered players a richly detailed world, complex characters, and a deep, engaging storyline. Its success paved the way for numerous sequels and other D&D-based computer games.

    2. Shadowrun Returns (2013)

    “Shadowrun” is a unique tabletop RPG that blends cyberpunk and fantasy elements. Harebrained Schemes’ “Shadowrun Returns” successfully captured the essence of the tabletop game while introducing it to a new generation of players. The game features a turn-based combat system, character customization, and a gripping narrative set in a dystopian future where magic and technology coexist.

    3. Divinity: Original Sin (2014)

    Larian Studios’ “Divinity: Original Sin” is another excellent example of a tabletop-inspired RPG that found great success as a computer game. Drawing inspiration from classic tabletop mechanics, the game offers turn-based combat, cooperative multiplayer, and an intricate story with branching paths. Its sequel, “Divinity: Original Sin 2,” received widespread acclaim and solidified the franchise’s reputation.

    4. Pathfinder: Kingmaker (2018)

    Based on Paizo’s “Pathfinder” tabletop RPG, “Pathfinder: Kingmaker” by Owlcat Games brings the rich lore and complex mechanics of the tabletop game to the digital realm. Players can create and customize their characters, explore vast landscapes, and engage in strategic combat. The game also incorporates kingdom-building elements, adding another layer of depth to the experience.

    5. Cyberpunk 2077 (2020)

    Although “Cyberpunk 2077” by CD Projekt Red is not a direct adaptation of the “Cyberpunk 2020” tabletop RPG, it draws heavily from the source material created by Mike Pondsmith. The game transports players to the neon-lit streets of Night City, offering an open-world experience filled with intricate storytelling, character development, and a vibrant, immersive world.

    The Impact of Digital RPGs

    The transition from tabletop to digital has had a profound impact on the RPG genre. Here are a few key ways in which this evolution has shaped the gaming landscape:

    1. Accessibility

    Digital RPGs have made these complex and richly detailed worlds more accessible to a broader audience. Players who may not have had the opportunity to engage in tabletop RPGs due to time, availability of a gaming group, or other constraints can now immerse themselves in these experiences through their computers and consoles.

    2. Enhanced Visuals and Audio

    The digital format allows for stunning visuals and immersive audio, bringing the worlds of RPGs to life in ways that were previously unimaginable. Detailed graphics, voice acting, and dynamic soundtracks enhance the storytelling and overall experience.

    3. Convenience and Flexibility

    Computer games offer convenience and flexibility, allowing players to pause, save, and resume their adventures at any time. This flexibility is particularly appealing to those with busy schedules who still want to engage in epic quests and adventures.

    4. Innovative Gameplay Mechanics

    Digital RPGs have introduced innovative gameplay mechanics that enhance the tabletop experience. From real-time combat systems to complex AI-driven narratives, these games continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in interactive storytelling.

    Conclusion

    The conversion of tabletop RPGs to digital formats has expanded the reach and appeal of these beloved games. By preserving the core elements that make tabletop RPGs so captivating—rich storytelling, character development, and player agency—while leveraging the advantages of modern technology, digital RPGs have carved out a significant niche in the gaming industry. Whether you’re a longtime fan of tabletop RPGs or a newcomer to the genre, the digital adaptations offer a thrilling and immersive way to experience these fantastical worlds.

    As technology continues to evolve, we can look forward to even more innovative and captivating RPG experiences, bridging the gap between the physical and digital realms. So gather your party, roll for initiative, and embark on an epic adventure—whether around a table or on your computer screen.