. If you like the podcast, or hate it in a novel and entertaining manner, we’d love to know your thoughts.
. One easy way of telling us is to go to iTunes and leave a review.
. Here’s what other listeners have already said:
REVIEWS
FLAG | COUNTRY | DATE | RATING | AUTHOR | TITLE | REVIEW |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | United States | 2020-01-31 | 5 | Thaumaturge365 | Scott sounds like Winnie the Pooh! | I was turning someone on to your podcast —because it’s awesome — when he noted that Scott sounds like Winnie the Pooh. I think he has the perfect voice for horror lulling you into a false sense idyllic comfort before... well, horror. |
![]() | United States | 2020-01-22 | 5 | Soulaco | I am a keeper because of this podcast | Hands down my favorite podcast. The podcasters are very smart and have much expertise not only in CoC but also in weird fiction and horror movies. But besides this, the most important thing to me about these guys is that they have created the coziest podcast I’ve ever listened to. They remind me of good times i’ve spent chatting and hanging with my friends. In my home town there are many D&D games but not many CoC games, so I’ve organized my own game as keeper thanks to this podcast. Thanks to Scott, who has excellent analysis on all things about the game and who i thought would look more like a m.r. james based on his voice but actually looks more like Alan moore. And thanks to Paul, for his thoughtful questioning view of everything as well as his excellent intro videos which i sent to all my investigators. And thanks to Matt for his experience, comic relief, and for happily sharing whatever is on his mind. Cheers! |
![]() | United States | 2020-01-20 | 5 | Bobbyquarrier | Very interesting | Though I have never played the Call of Cthulhu rpg, I was turned on to this podcast by a friend and found it very rewarding. It offers great analysis of Lovecraftian lore and has reviewed one of my favorite movies and has been a great place for finding additional media to explore. I am really impressed both with the quality of their insights and with the rapport the hosts have. Thanks to them I will be recommending we try out COC to my friends next chance I get. |
![]() | United States | 2020-01-18 | 5 | guyknight | Fantastic! | I discovered this incredible podcast a bit late, but I immediately started to binge on it. Every episode is fantastic! The guys are smart, worldly, educated, factual, exciting and funny as hell! Everyone will enjoy this podcast- not just Horror Gamers! They have answered the age old question “ what do I do with my Degree In Literature? “ you make cool and interesting podcasts, write fun games, and share your knowledge with other gamers! Can’t get enough of these podcasts! |
![]() | United States | 2020-01-04 | 5 | Dyl From Outside Providence | A Must For Lovecraft Fans! | If you are a fan of Lovecraft, gaming, or horror in general, then The Good Friends of Jackson Elias is for you. Matt, Paul, and Scott cover a wide range of topics, from mythos fiction, to running Call of Cthulhu RPG games, to classic horror films. Every episode is like sitting at your favorite panel at a Lovecraft convention, but without the two year wait between sessions. Check it out! |
![]() | United States | 2019-12-14 | 5 | RightlyGuided | A must listen podcast for all fans of Lovecraft, gamer or no | Packed with clever insights into Lovecraft and related works, not just from a role playing gamer perspective. The three gentlemen, Matt, Scott and Paul, discuss a variety of topics in (entertaining) detail. Recent (winter, 2019) topics include an in-depth discussion of Lovecrafts At the Mountains of Madness and one about those fabulous tomes L and company loved to list in their workds. If you ARE a gamer, these are the people that wrote the campaign The Two Headed Serpent, which is quickly becoming a classic. So of course you want to listen to this. If you aren't a gamer, listen anyway. Its fun, entertaining and knowledgable. You can't help but come away enriched. |
![]() | United States | 2019-11-18 | 5 | Arwennigan | Thoughtful, Genuine, and Humorous | This podcast is very much like having three (or occasionally four) friends who enjoy talking to each other in length on topics they’re all very informed about. I’ve never been one for horror films and have yet to actually read the Lovecraft anthology sitting on my bookshelf, but every time I listen to a new episode it makes me want to experience the source material first hand... when I have some free time. I came here for the gaming talk as a lover of Call of Cthulhu among other RPGs and stayed for the hosts’ witty personalities and sweet, sweet, British accents. |
![]() | United States | 2019-09-06 | 5 | A.E. Jonesy | A Call of Cthulhu Masterclass | Scott Dorward, Paul Fricker, and Matt Sanderson are three of the greatest minds working in horror games right now, and their show is a masterclass on running them. They've written some of the best Call of Cthulhu scenarios of the last decade or so, and their insights into the craft of running a game are more helpful than any game book out there. Even if you're not a role-player, they have excellent taste in horror films and stories, and their episodes on weird fiction and movies are just as great as their episode on games. And you may even become a tabletop gamer after listening to enough of their shows--they're that good. I've listened to every episode multiple times, and I've become a better player and GM because of it. Some of my favorite episodes are ones where they talk about other roleplaying games they enjoy, and I've discovered so many great games I may have otherwise not encountered. I had the pleasure of meeting all of them in person this summer, and even got to game with Matt while playing Paul's amazing Call of Cthulhu scenario, "Gatsby and the Great Race." Here's to many more episodes! Ia! Ia! |
![]() | United States | 2019-09-01 | 5 | The Final Sam | The Best Podcast About Lovecraft! | I discovered this podcast from a reddit thread and since the night I heard their siren call, I've been working my way through the archive. I love hearing them talk about Lovecraft and horror. Listening to this pod is like sitting with friends. Good Friends, one might say... If you like Lovecraft, roleplaying games, and talks of horror and what makes it tick, please give this pod a try! Fantastic job, guys! |
![]() | United States | 2019-07-02 | 5 | TheGreatStoneFace | A wonderful Call of Cthulhu podcast | I have been thoroughly enjoying picking and choosing episodes of the podcast to listen to. I always know that the three hosts will have put in an enormous amount of research into whatever topic they choose to discuss. The hosts have a wealth of experience, having played and created rpg scenarios for decades. A gem of a podcast. |
![]() | United States | 2019-06-23 | 5 | Test Subject 86b1 | What a delightful podcast! | Discovered this on what would normally be a boring drive from Dallas to Houston. Great insight into Lovecraft and one of my favorite pastimes - horror gaming. Great job guys! |
![]() | United States | 2019-05-14 | 5 | Chuckietee076 | Freakin Great Podcast! | Excellent job Boys! I just finished the entire backlog and have enjoyed every show the three of you have produced. For any GM of any system I would recommend this podcast. These guys are walking talking gold. Their approach to GMing is intelligent, thoughtful and humorous. I can’t recommend the show enough. Thank you for everything you do on and off the air. I look forward to many more shows. |
![]() | United States | 2019-04-24 | 5 | John Fiala | Good Podcast with Good Friends | The Good Friends of Jackson Elias is an interesting and thought-provoking podcast that's not afraid to wander afar to discuss related topics to Call of Cthulhu roleplaying, such as a recent episode (recent for me) about the Heaven and Earth roleplaying game. I'm always happy to sit down and listen to another thoughtful discussion with these fine gentlemen. |
![]() | United States | 2019-02-01 | 5 | Keeper Grant D | Great podcast on many levels! | In all honesty, this is the podcast that got me into listening to podcasts! Thoughtful discussions of all things Call of Cthulhu and Lovecraft. The mix of practical in-game issues with more philosophical discussions of cosmic horror and mythos always strikes the right balance. Scott, Paul, and Matt are great at tying abstract discussions of genre back into something that can really inform your games at the table. I'm always excited when I get a Good Friends notification of a new episode. I highly recommend subscribing! |
![]() | United States | 2019-01-26 | 5 | Emma's iPhone 6 | The Good Friends are my friends | I've been listening to this podcast for the past two years and finally felt compelled to write this review. Matt, Paul, and Scott very clearly not only have a deep knowledge of the source material, but also a visceral passion for the genre. When the three hosts are talking and interacting with one another, it is with a friendly tone of voice (and frequently with a bit of humor) that draws in the listener, not unlike sitting around with your friends. Each host has his own 'voice' and it is not uncommon to hear differing opinions on a topic. This is a boon as these moments can lead to a deeper understanding of the topic in discussion. It is a fun podcast that is well-produced and should be in the playlist of not only HPL fans, but fans of horror in general. Thank you gentlemen! |
![]() | United States | 2018-10-18 | 5 | wmacgyver | Thank you, thank you, thank you! | I used to play Call of Cthulhu long time ago back when “Cthulhu Now” wasn’t a historical setting. The group stopped because well, we got tired of all the character deaths. As the special episode on "Pulp vs Pure" pointed out it you can only die so many times before you stop caring. Two years ago at Origins Pelgrane Press booth, Kenneth Hite pitched “Trail of Cthulhu” as the solution. So last year we started playing it. While doing research to prepare for the game, I discovered the podcast. The first time I put it on, my wife (who’s one of the players) fell asleep a few minutes in. I asked her if she thought the podcast was boring. She said "No, it’s quite interesting. Please put it on again, I’d like to listen to it". We quickly started going through the backlog of episodes, though the pattern continues. At night time if I put it on, she will fall asleep with in minutes as if I just put on a lullaby. She claims it’s the British voices 🙂 We love the theme song, though we couldn’t figure why you picked it. The theme song choice was so memorable the podcast has come to be known as “Japanese Sandman” podcast. At the beginning of the year, my wife started experimental cancer treatment. The treatment is designed to spike your immune system. This means you have high fever, are restless, and have insomnia. The side effects are something you have no choice but to cope. We tried a bunch of things, but nothing worked. Until it suddenly occurred to me, “Hey, you want to try listening to the Japanese Sandman podcast?” She felt it was worth a try. It wasn’t even 10 minutes and she was sound asleep. Words can’t describe how thankful I was that your podcast exist at that very moment. From that point on, your podcast became part of the treatment journey. Fortunately you've produced many episodes, even so there are many episodes we've listened to many times. We always look forward to new episodes. Some of our favorite episodes are #50 "How Cthulhu took over the world", the episodes (#63/#64) on "Lamentations of Flame Princes" #76 "Many faces of Cthulhu" #80 "Pulp Cthulhu" #83 "Appeals of RPGs" the episodes (#103/#104) "Appeal of investigative games" (#105/#108) on World of Darkness (Vampire the Masquerade is another game we play quite a bit over the years) (#109/#110) on THE "Call of Cthulhu" the special episode on "Pulp vs Pure" #121 "System Matters" Some of the episodes have sent us looking for TV series and movies you recommended. However, our all time favorite is the #128 Cat episode. She loves cats. When the episode was released, that afternoon she asked if I can put on the “Japanese Sandman” podcast. I said “You are in for a treat. There is a new episode, which I’m confident will be your all time favorite from this point forward.” After the episode ended, she said “can we listen to it again?”. She even enjoyed the singing/cat meowing you guys did in that episode. And yes, she was awake throughout the entire episode. She passed away 4 month ago, but I wanted to thank all of you for creating the podcast. It helped her through the treatment process. The 3 of you are truly “Good Friends”. |
![]() | United States | 2018-07-29 | 5 | Skoll_IX | Ride the night wind with these good friends! | Amazing and entertaining podcast for the lore of HP Lovecraft. These fellows discuss a wide range of topics that dares the darkest corners. My favorite episodes are the discussions of the Lovecraftian deities where you are taken for a tour of encyclopedic proportions through relevant works, speculative theories, how to use said deity in your Call of Cthulhu game and also how they (who are seasoned and experienced players and writers for the game) have used the entity in their games. There is just too much good here to list! Please give it a listen! |
![]() | United States | 2018-04-12 | 5 | Screaming random | I'm hooked | Great podcast! The range of knowledge goes way beyond gaming keeping everything interesting and fun. |
![]() | United States | 2018-04-04 | 5 | anthologos | Gentlemen gamers (and tipplers) Updated | Updated April 2018 Am still an avid listener and Patreon backer after several years, and still find myself listening to their old episodes with great joy and intellectual pleasure. Scott, Paul, and Matt share a darkly-infectious enthusiasm for their hobby and this podcast has honestly been one of my greatest game-related pleasures over the past few years. My only regret is that I am unable to share a game and a story or two with them in person, but the airwaves (so to speak) are a fair substitute, as are their writings, which are as clever as their on-air personalities. If you have not listened yet, and have any interest in Call of Cthulhu, role-playing games more generally, horror and dark narratives of any sort, or just good humour and friendship, you should try the Good Friends podcast post-haste, and sample their various writings as well. You will never be disappointed. ******** The Good Friends are very clever gamers and writers of grand wit and humour. Neither autistic savants droningly correcting the harmless solecisms of fellow players 'round the table, nor shrill poltergeists hurling ghastly pebbles of polemic, they are gentlemen who balance erudition and enthusiasm, and their long-forged camaraderie is genuine and warm. Their friendship makes for repartee that is very easy to listen to. Even if you are not a Cthulhu gamer, you will love listening over these good friends’ shoulders. Scott Dorward, who of the three perhaps maintains the most active online presence, deserves special kudos for being the rare gamer whose forum persona is helpful, intelligent, and keen, rather than insufferable. Check him out on their own forum, blasphemoustomes.com or on reddit gaming fora. TL:DR…love the podcast, listen multiple times. Great, great stuff! |
![]() | United States | 2018-01-21 | 5 | daupo in NYC | three very weird friends | TGFoJE is my favorite podcast. Scott, Paul, and Matt have introduced me to great cultural objects and re-enthused my gaming life with their thoughtful conversations. The show is well-structured, while never feeling scripted or false. It just feels like I am hanging out with three good friends, good, *very strange* friends, each of whom has an individual personality that one gets to know over the course of the podcast's development. And they talk about the films, games, and other weird horrors that interest them. Top notch! |
![]() | United States | 2017-11-30 | 5 | TuGunMojo | Top notch podcast, I highly recommend them | The Good Friends put one one of the best podcasts about Horror gaming, with a huge focus on Cthulhu RPGs. They discuss other games as well and other subjects from time to time (Horror movies for example), tho I’m partial to the Lovecraftian aspects myself. Regardless of the subject matter, this trio put thought into what they are saying and always keep me entertained. Check them out! Jamey |
![]() | United States | 2017-10-01 | 5 | SuperGrouchFace | Always great, thoughtful and interesting! | I love how thoughtful these guys are in the way they consider various horror fiction, cinema and role playing. I have been put on to several interesting films, books and television programs due to Paul, Matt and Scott. As a Call of Cthulhu and Delta Green player/gm, this podcast is really invaluable. It gets you into your "ideal state" for considering good storytelling and compelling atmosphere/mood. As a fan of the horror genre in various media, Paul, Matt and Scott are remarkably varied yet interesting in their tastes, approaches and attitudes. This is really nice and always gives me someone to identify with. Finally, this podcast has made me a better roleplayer, storyteller and purveyor of all things horror. It is a great thing to listen to and I look forward to donating on their Patreon (they do a song for people who donate, and it reminds me of my art school days.) |
![]() | United States | 2017-08-17 | 5 | Sam Stamps | always waiting for the next episode | These guys are great. Very entertaining and give a great spin on all subjects that are Lovecraftian. |
![]() | United States | 2017-07-28 | 5 | cthulhu-fhtagn | Good friends indeed | The Good Friends present a fun take on horror gaming, movies, and literature and apply whatever they discuss to gaming in the Cthulhu Mythos. The audio quality improves quite a bit in more recent episodes - perhaps because they no longer record in a potting shed - but even when the audio isn't the best, the content is always excellent. There are gaming podcasts out there that are more famous, but there are none better than the Good Friends of JE. |
![]() | United States | 2017-02-27 | 5 | Bhdhjwjeei | Outstanding Show | Truely insightful show, full of great discussions, cthuloid updates, and entertaining content. One of the best RPG podcasts out there. |
![]() | United States | 2016-12-16 | 4 | darklament | Awesome overall | EXCEPT for one important episode - #23, the one about combat. You all spend over half the podcast talking about how much you don’t like combat in CoC & then you kinda talk about how the new combat system works. It would be good if we actually would get an in-depth play through of how combat work, because a lot of use DO enjoy the occasional dust-up :). Other then that I LOVE this podcast! Love to hear for creators. |
![]() | United States | 2016-06-20 | 5 | Cpt-Safety | Excellent! | One of the best podcasts out there! It doesn't hurt that you guys talk about one of my favorite RPGs of all time. Love the sort of "inside looks" and insights of the writers. Thank you! |
![]() | United States | 2015-09-03 | 5 | Triceratops Bob | The Good Friends of Jackson Elias | Excellent. If you are a fan of horror RPGs, this is a good choice. If you're a Call of Cthulhu RPG fan, this is virtually a must. The hosts are knowledgeable and have a wonderful give-and-take in their in-depth discussions. I thought I couldn't handle yet another podcast, but after one episode, I made room in my podcast rotation. Check this one out! |
![]() | United States | 2015-05-26 | 5 | eddypo68 | Horrifying and educational. | To be honest, I didn't care for this podcast when it first launched. It wasn't terrible, but I think it lacked enough polish to keep me engaged and stay on my feed. THAT, I'm pleased to report, has all changed. I gave it another try and I'm glad I did. This show and its hosts both educate and horrify me. I'm hooked like Attract Fish gone wrong! |
![]() | United States | 2015-05-25 | 5 | Keeper Chad | #AttractGoodPodcasts | This is one of the best gaming podcasts available. The hosts are knowledgeable and entertaining, represent a range of views and tastes, and together they generate excellent ideas. If you play horror RPGs, you’ll get a lot out of these episodes. All three hosts are experienced writers and editors for Call of Cthulhu and other games, so coverage of the topic is informed and valuable. |
![]() | United States | 2015-05-25 | 5 | fox01313 | Horror genre podcasting gem | I originally started listening to this podcast with the Call of Cthulhu rpg & happy ever since first turning it on. Great discussions from the hosts & guests on horror in games as well as movies & fiction. Highly recommended! |
![]() | United States | 2014-09-06 | 5 | caddy1071 | Always delightful to hear TGFoJE | Excellent podcast with great discussion of horror gaming and inspiration with incredibly knowledgeable and entertaining hosts. They have a great chemistry that always brings a smile to your face whether talking about cosmic insanities or ritualistic murder enabling the return of the Old Ones. These gentlemen put on a great show. |
![]() | United States | 2014-04-18 | 5 | WellMustachioed | Occasional podcast, always great! | Paul, Matt and Scott have lively conversations mostly about Call of Cthulhu. Or Hot War. Or horror movies. Or Attract Fish. |
![]() | Canada | 2019-09-06 | 5 | Azrael666Dark | Beyond compare! | I came a cross this podcast by listening to Scott run Blackwater creek for the how we roll podcast. Sense I discovered the good friends I can’t stop listening. There knowledge of the Mythos is beyond compare and every episode feels like sitting down with good friends for a beer and a chat. Thank you for all the work you put into this masterpiece of a podcast! Much love |
![]() | Canada | 2018-11-23 | 5 | 6ren | A perfect resource for keepers and players | An incredible resource for fans of Call of Cthulhu, or any RPG for that matter. Their intelligent approach to such topics as violence in games, mental illness and diversity successful bring a game created in the 80’s to the 21st century. Keep up the good work Friends! |
![]() | Canada | 2018-06-27 | 5 | Cinna the Poet | A great resource | This is a detailed, thoughtful and passionate podcast. The three hosts have a comprehensive discussion on a particular topic in Call if Cthulhu. They cover the salient points as well as explore compelling alternatives on the subject of the episode. I highly recommend this to anyone who wants to run Call of Cthulhu and wants a deep dive into the lore of the game, tips on being a keeper and insights into the community surrounding it. Thanks for all of your hard work guys! |
![]() | Canada | 2015-08-28 | 5 | jpranger | Great Podcast! Thanks for your hard work! | This is a great podcast about Call of Cthulhu RPG. The three hosts are writers for Chaosium and for other games, so they really know what they are talking about. Since they were all involved with developing the 7th edition rules, it is interesting to hear some of the reasoning for the changes. Keep up the good work, gentlemen! |
![]() | Australia | 2019-08-14 | 5 | TomasDeTorque | Excellent Listening | As I re-emerge myself into the RPG world finding podcasts has been a great help. This one is brilliant and about my favourite game, Call of Cthulhu. I am working my way through back episodes while eagerly awaiting the new ones. Through this podcast I have come up with new ideas for scenarios, how to write them and learnt to be more confident with improvisation. I enjoy the discussion between Matt, Scott and Paul and how they don't always agree. I find myself joining in the discussion as I'm driving to work. |
![]() | Australia | 2019-07-25 | 5 | Dalex D. Diddlesticks | Be Warned | The Good Friends will entertain, stimulate and intrigue you for hours, however be warned... Do not fall asleep during this podcast or you shall awake, shivering from the darkest nightmare, with the demented wails of 'thank you to our latest Patreon backer!' |
![]() | Australia | 2019-07-04 | 5 | JR Wilkinson | Great podcast for a great game! | Paul, Matt and Scott are so knowledgeable about Call of Cthulhu I’m particular and RPGs in general, that this podcast is a delight to listen to. The recent episodes interviewing Mike and Lynne from Chaosium were brilliant, but I want to reserve special mention for the episode about Player Engagement. As a ‘keeper’ myself, I thought this discussion was a joy to listen to, and provided me with so many tips and advice. Can’t wait for the next episodes to be released! |
![]() | Australia | 2019-06-25 | 5 | Orbital Axolotl | A phenomenal podcast! | Probably my favourite podcast The Good Friends of Jackson Elias covers horror fiction,films and particularly gaming. All three of the hosts are professional Role Playing Game writers so they absolutely know what they're talking about and are all very likeable and interact with fans online. The episodes cover many different topics and I always find another episode in the sizeable backlog to excitedly sink my teeth into. The show provides incredible insights into running games and is often quite funny. Most of all I love the way they handle Lovecraft,they are willing to acknowledge his awful nature but also appreciate the good parts of his work and praise them suitably. Some of the earlier episodes have less than stellar audio quality but it is very good in the more recent ones,with good editing. Can't praise enough! |
![]() | Australia | 2016-06-10 | 5 | Jonty69 | Call of Cthulhu at its best | The Good Friends is one of the best tabletop gaming podcasts that I have discovered, of any genre, and really support my love of horror, and especially Cthulhu, gaming. I have learnt about several new fun to play systems by listening to these chaps as well. Their love and knowledge of Call of Cthulhu and Lovecrafian works is exemplary (helped by the fact the two of them are involved in 7th ed CofC). This is one of a few podcasts that I look forward to listening to each and every week, and I recommend this podcast to tabletop gamers and fans of suspense horror alike. |
![]() | Australia | 2015-08-31 | 4 | Danial79 | Fun podcast... but not for the whole family | I discovered The Good Friends of Jackson Elias through their YouTube channel while searching for Call of Cthulhu (RPG) information. Their episodes on that were quite good, however, they were also quite hard to find as the episode titles are pretty vague, as are the descriptions. You have to click the link to their website to really figure out what most episodes are about, which is pretty annoying. For the most part, the episodes are humorous and light-hearted, and I would love to listen with my kids if it wasn't for the occasional gratuitous expletive. All in all, a great podcast that I would highly recommend if you're a fan of Call of Cthulhu or Lovecraft. |
![]() | Finland | 2019-09-18 | 5 | PetteriK4 | Very good | Lots of good discussions and gaming tips for horror gamers. |
![]() | Finland | 2018-11-12 | 5 | shaman42 | Cthulhu Fans Listen to This | This is the best Cthulhu RPG related podcast there is. Listen and be inspired. |
![]() | Finland | 2018-02-20 | 5 | Mikko Airaksinen | A note stuck under a stone | I pressed play and for a few fleeting seconds there was but silence. I thought the device broken, but soon a strange melancholy music filled my ears and with it came the sudden realisation: I was once again in the company of The Good Friends of Jackson Elias. Created by messrs Dorward, Fricker, and Sanderson the podcast covers a variety of topics from readings of different works of fiction to creating and playing roleplaying games, that most sanity blasting of pastimes. The podcast derives great strength from their extensive experience on this field, each having their own unique take on the subject. Listening to their podcast has opened my eyes to new, unimaginable insights on our shared obsession. In a good way. |
![]() | Denmark | 2019-03-24 | 5 | Soren H | A good listen if you enjoy the world og H.P. Lovecraft and Call of Cthulhu RPG. | Scott, Paul and Matt manages to discuss so many interesting facets of the Lovecraft universe, in a way that is both entertaining and enlightening. Have been listening to them since the start almost 6 years ago (2 years as a Patron backer). And every time I receive a notification of a new episode has aired, I look forward to listen to it. The option as a Patreon backer to listen to the unedited version is hilarious. Highly recommended |
![]() | Sweden | 2019-05-17 | 5 | Martin Gode | High and low, this podcast gives you all | As ghoulish and horrific as its themes might seem, this wonderful podcast is as enjoyable on a sunny morning with a cup of freshly brewed coffee in hand as it is on a gloomy evening strolling through the neighborhood cemetery. Whilst maintaining their calming voices and positive spirits, the friends explore the worlds of H.P. Lovecraft and other horror writers by bringing interesting discussions on numerous stories, deities and characters. Beyond providing immense information on literature and tomes, the podcast really has helped me in the process of writing my own scenario through providing useful insights in the game mechanics. Although I still can’t seem to figure out how to make cuts in the approximately 25-30 NPCs I’ve created for the scenario.. Anyhow, I’d like to thank you very much sharing your podcast with the world. I highly recommend this to everyone! |
![]() | Sweden | 2018-11-09 | 5 | thebjornidentity | Terrific podcast | This podcast has the feel of a good and intelligent chat between friends, even though the subject is Eldritch Horror. Immensely enjoyable. |
![]() | Belgium | 2018-05-15 | 5 | Wouter V. | Enjoyable for GMs, players and the casually intrested | Very good podcast by three very knowledgeable hosts in their fields (ex. horror, roleplaying games, writing scenario's,...). Good for tips on running games and general horror trivia about books, movies and the history of call of chuthlu. As an extra bonus they keep up with all chtulu related kickstarters for you, especially the plushy ones are nice. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2019-08-12 | 5 | hobsoninthehills | Interesting and thoughtful podcast on Lovecraft (and beyond) | I’ve been listening to the Good Friends for over a year now and I always look forward to each new episode. Their discussions have been helpful in my own scenario planning, I’ve found several excellent fiction books off the back of their recommendations (The Loney being a real highlight!), and I’ve enjoyed hearing about all the cult horror films that I’m far too chicken to actually watch. The recent Hastur/Yellow King series has been especially helpful as I’m planning to run Tatters of the King soon and it’s given me plenty to think about for remixing and spicing up the original campaign. Thanks a lot for all the excellent content! |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2019-06-12 | 5 | Pad_In_Purgatory | Mi-Go. You go. We all go. | Having uncovered the plotting of these three bickering cultists - I thought by listening and taking notes I could stop their evil machinations and slithery sinister schemes. But all I can think of now are the scratching noises and the pretty shapes dancing outside my window. The only questions I now have is why is there a black goat in my shed? I fear the end comes soon... |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2019-01-08 | 5 | SJGeeWhiz | The Best Roleplaying Podcast Around | I started listening to the Good Friends around the time I actually started Roleplaying myself and ever since then they have been my favourite podcast. They are a great resource for Call of Cthulhu scenario seeds, they give great recommendations for movies and books (I discovered Nathan Ballingrud through them) and they are all around fun to listen to. They also cover a wide range of topics in the area of roleplaying and often give very useful advice for players and DM's alike, a lot of which I have now adopted myself. I'd recommend the podcast (and have) to anyone who has an interest in roleplaying, anything horror related really and especially anyone who likes to listen to good friends having a good chat about the things they love. Also, you should support them on Patreon because they bloody well deserve it. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2018-10-20 | 5 | Imperator Helvetica | The Five Stars are Right | I first learned of this singular podcast in the Spring of 1923, finding a reference to it tucked into a mouldering old book which my departed Great Uncle Wilbur had seen fit to preserve, despite letting his stately New England home fall into a most decadent state of rack and ruin. Thinking that this Jackson Elias was the key to my Great Uncles mysterious disappearance - last seen by his housekeeper heading to the coast weighed down with stone tablets and a selection of nets and buckets. I went to call on the gentleman, but he was already engaged in a meeting so I sought out these good friends of his. A sinister and disquieting trio, resplendent in gaming wisdom, cunning play and GM strategy, great horror reviews and a fecundity of inspiration and gaming ideas which left me shaken, drained and reduced to near only my vital salts and essences. A devilish sense of humour and levity also pervaded the conversation and still rings in my ears as I stumble across these blasted moors. Wonderful and entertaining as it may be, it is in my dreams that I am troubled by the singing - praise coming from inhuman voices in dreadful supplication to beings old when the Earth was young. My sanity ebbs away, as I am compelled to improve my gaming and expand my reading, their voices echoing in my ears - curse you auto-downloader! Even as I delve into the arcane back catalogue. In conclusion, an enjoyable stay at the Witch-House on the Hill Airbnb - great chat, fascinating discoveries but couldn't find the pool table. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2018-08-25 | 5 | Jonas Wolfe | Inspirational and thoroughly enjoyable | I've been listening to the Good Friends podcast for over six months now and am constantly amazed at how diverse and inspirational the topics of discussion are. Having been a role-player and horror geek since I was at school (some 40 plus years ago now) I love the mix of discussion, humour, critique and ideas that come to the fore when the fellows get together. Whether you like role-playing games and are looking for inspirational, like the works of H.P. Lovecraft or, indeed, other horror writers, love horror film or TV or just enjoy podcasts in general, there is much to admire in the Good Friends. And, let's be honest, where else can you back a podcast on Patreon and have a special song composed just for you? Listening to mine this morning while out walking the dog made me burst into hysterical laughter. Keep up the great work. Roll on episode 200! |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2018-08-12 | 5 | Morthrai | Still keeping it squamous | Been a fan right from the start. Pretty much the go-to UK Lovecraftian podcast these days (sorry YSDC - still love you too of course!) and here's wishing them many more episodes. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2018-07-02 | 5 | Gnome Monk | New adventures on and off the gaming table | The GFJE have a lot to answer for. I started listening to improve my Keeping but it’s gone far beyond that now. Thanks to them I’ve discovered the works of Thomas Ligotti, the HP Podcast and the London Fortean Society. Cheers guys! |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2018-06-19 | 5 | Jules_Alex_L | Thorough Addictive Material | A good test of a podcast is, in my view, that- after getting used to the voices of the hosts- would you like to sit in a pub with these guys for an evening's banter. In the case of the good friends of Jackson Elias- that's a most definite yes. These guys are erudite, funny and generally great company on my drives too and from work; on the subject of which- one very important factor, its well recorded and produced- meaning that car engine rumble doesn't disrupt things (very important for my listening habits). A hugely enjoyable back catalogue of incisive and entertaining discussion for anyone interested in Cthulhu or horror… highly recommended. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2018-04-18 | 5 | Uncle Riotous | Best Horror Gaming Podcast Out There | This podcast is a rare thing indeed. Knowledgable hosts who bring different perspectives and a love for their topic without being preachy. One of the few podcasts that I listen to every episode while also working through the considerable backlog. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2017-12-12 | 5 | King Hate | Dark Pilgrims | Thank you gentlemen for all your hard work crafting an informative and inspiring resource for keepers and players. I’m late to the party but happy to be here. Keep at it! K1ngHate |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2017-12-08 | 5 | Gareth (Torchlight Candles) | Cthulhu fhtagn! | I was introduced to this podcast at Dragonmeet 2017 and ever since then I have been listening to it whenever I can! The show has a very light hearted and friendly atmosphere, just like being with a group of friends. I have been listening to it at work and must seem crazy to everyone around me becuase every now and again I just laugh at some witty joke. I am working my way through the podcasts and episode 103/104 on what makes a good investigative game (your right it is hard to say sometimes) has really given me some great ideas for my first go DMing a call of Cthulhu game! Keep up the good work! |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2017-12-07 | 5 | Spandaubillet | Tread Softly | Insanely funny but mostly insane |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2017-12-07 | 5 | joblud | Esoterica at its best | While there are several good Call of Cthulhu podcasts out there in the hoary wine cellar of gaming media, this one is always a treat, that vintage bottle you stash away for a quiet moment. Highly recommended. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2017-06-18 | 5 | TrvShane | Always useful and entertaining. | Having come to the Good Friends of Jackson Elias podcast about a year ago I have consistently enjoyed it (it is one of only four podcasts I regularly listen). The hosts, as old friends, have great chemistry. They speak to mic comfortably, and are quick to acknowledge listener input and comments on social media. The show covers horror games and horror films, with a clear emphasis on Call of Cthulhu and Lovecraftian fiction. The topics each week range from a study of a story and using it in gaming, to a breakdown of a film, to gaming tips and techniques. Even if you aren’t a horror gamer or Call of Cthulhu gamer you can find a lot of useful content to bring to any game (or work of fiction if you are an author). If you are a Call of Cthulhu keeper there is more here than you will ever be able to use. This show remains one of my favourite games and I am happy to support them on Patreon. I cannot recommend the podcast enough. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2017-05-16 | 5 | Zackspacks | Blue Oyster Cultists? Or something similar... | In ancient times, hundreds of years before the dawn of history, lived a strange group of people: The Good Friends. No one knows who they were or what they were doing, but their legacy remains hewn into the non-Euclidean geometry of iTunes. “Good Friends! Where the Dorwoods dwell Where the Frickers live and they do live well Good Friends! Where they scrub down old Abhoth And the Sandersons dance to the Pipes of Azathoth” |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2017-04-28 | 5 | A new friend of Jackson Elias | Top notch | When I first started listening to the podcast I was a big lovecraft fan but had never played a pen and paper rpg in my life. Skip forward a year and I've convinced my mates to have a weekly game and am knee deep into running Masks (4 character deaths so far, we're all new to this so I'm pulling my punches a little!). The hosts knowledge and enthusiasm are top notch, essential listening for any keeper, player or even just horror fan. It's always a good day when a new episode drops, couldn't recommend it more. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2016-12-24 | 5 | cloudb64 | Sanity saving sage advice | As someone returning to role playing after too many years away to admit to, I have found this podcast a mine of useful advice. Though primarily focused on Call of Cthulhu, there is much that would help a games-master of any system. Not only that, the guys manage to share their knowledge in a highly listenable and entertaining manner. The only thing that bugs me is, just what is that haunting theme song? Top marks, keep up the good work, it is appreciated. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2016-09-07 | 5 | 37Davenport | A brilliant podcast | A Tremendous podcast. The hosts are all veterans of the Roleplaying game call of cthulhu, writing large amounts for the game and other horror games. All of them know what they're talking about when it Comes to roleplaying. They have a tone of semi-casual Tone that really Fits the show. In the show they discuss everything from horror films to the development of roleplaying Scenarios. Hearty recommendations to all people whom like not just horror, but roleplaying in general. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2016-03-19 | 5 | MartinOrwell | Beautifully put together Lovecraftiannia | A horror/gaming/Lovecraft podcast delivered lightly by some true heavy weights in the Lovecraft world. All three hosts are high level Call of Cthulhu/Lovecraft horror game developers and GMs, and each episode is well reserached and entertainingly delivered. If you've ever played Call of Cthulhu, read Lovecraft, love horror films, or are simply into horror in any form, this podcast is well worth a listen 😀 |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2016-03-15 | 5 | Dirk the Dice | Thanks for the fish | I’m currently on my second loop of listening to these wonderfully rich and absorbing podcasts, so much so, that my internal monologue has adopted the humms, harrs and guttural grunts of the hosts. The established format works really well, with it’s combination of Lovecraft studies, light-hearted banter and wide appreciation of the horror genre. My personal favourite is the episodes featuring the Lamentations of the Flame Princess, which is contextualised in the history of the hobby perfectly. I’ve also enjoyed their occasional demonstration of the 7th Edition Call of Cthulhu rules. Entertaining. Informative. What more do you need, other than 5000 kippers? |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2016-02-04 | 5 | rcaugust | Quite possibly my favourite podcast... | The best podcasts make you feel as though you're sat at the same table as the hosts, not able to contribute to the conversation perhaps, but nodding along and laughing at the jokes. In practice, this of course can make you look insane on the bus, but the feeling of being involved is one I look for in those podcasts which make my vaunted 'favourites list'. The Good Friends of Jackson Elias manage this in every episode, being often funny, imaginative and, despite an impressive list of professional credits, never make claim to authority or insist on 'laying down the law'. Its basically like listening to a pub chat, in the best way possible. Lovely stuff. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2015-11-27 | 5 | Mawdrigen | Excellent cthulhoid musings | An excellent podcast examining the vigintillion myriad eldritch things connected with and connected to the Cthulhu mythos. I love the mythos word of the week, and their deeper looks into stories of the mythos. Excellent for when thinking of ideas to set on your players! |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2015-10-22 | 5 | Cplwilks | A Great Podcast! | I'd love to insert some witty review here full of puns but I'm not that linguistic - I'm just gonna say if you're a fan of Lovecraft, Horror Gaming or films this is a great podcast. The banter between the three hosts is fantastic and I eagerly anticipate every episode. I've yet to hear a 'boring' episode and have been pointed to numerous new things be it games or movies. My only complaint would be fish - the show could do with more fish |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2015-08-14 | 5 | Keeper Ant | Definitely squamous, pototentially rugose | With great age comes great wisdom they say. Who say? People of great age usually. In the case of this podcast I would say age and wisdom walk hand in hand. From the dawn of the Days of Cthulhu and down through countless aeons to the here and now, arcane knowledge is dispensed and discussed. Knowledge of the Mythos, as well as more common horrors, is the meat and drink that our disturbingly cheery narators feast upon. If esoteric gaming, film and televisual awakening is your goal, then chant the spell to open the portal. If you fear the Nameless starry wisdom and the awful realisation it brings then seek elsewhere ... Also contains lots of humour, some swearing and occasional barbershop .. you have been warned. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2015-05-26 | 5 | Mase Escasi | SAN-bustingly Good | In their shed at Milton Keynes, three dreamers lay recording… Deformed, unattractive albino men – snog, marry, or avoid, you choose – these old dears are given to wandering amid the new town’s cosmic roundabouts, trying to read the great odorous books which they have inherited through four decades of roleplaying. Gorgons, hydras and chimeras, dire stories of the concrete cow; they are transcripts, types. The archetypes are in us, and eternal. No cream for me, thanks. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2014-10-01 | 5 | Burb1456 | Awesome podcast | Well done for this podcast and an awesome crew. Have read a lot of Matts stuff and he is really re-invigorating roleplaying across many genres. Keep up the fine work I and many others will be listening. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2014-07-19 | 5 | dragonsleeve | The Good Friends of Jackson Elias | I can't believe this show has no reviews. A cracking, informative and leisurely show, with a nice group of friends, devoted to Lovecraft and gaming. Ace stuff! |
![]() | Austria | 2017-05-11 | 5 | joerg73 | Cthulhu is pleased | This podcast is a must for every fan of horror movies, horror games and especially Call of Cthulhu roleplaying games. Each episode is full of interesting topics with examples and helpful ideas for your games, as the hosts are veterans of the genre and authors of many publications on those topics. And if you are a very good friend of The Good Friends of Jackson Elias your name will become part of legendary singing or at least sound-making on the part of the hosts. |
![]() | Australia | 2020-02-25 | 5 | Hihihihihelloo | Hooked | Thank you to the creators. Love the podcast! Well read, great commentary and awesome production. |
![]() | Australia | 2020-03-08 | 5 | Braydon Fiveash | Listen right now! | I’ve made a steady transition from D&D DM to Call of Cthulhu Keeper over the passed few months, and have been trying to ingest as much Call of Cthulhu related content as possible. I searched through a myriad of different podcasts, but there is one that stood out above the rest; The Good Friends of Jackson Elias podcast! I managed to get through near the entire back catalogue of episodes while working night shift, and found the topics and discussion very insightful and helpful for Call of Cthulhu and Lovecraftian Horror enthusiasts! I ran my first Call of Cthulhu game yesterday, and it was an enormous success (with many castings of Attract Fish). I attribute my success to the tips and knowledge learned from this podcast. Thank you Matt, Paul, and Scott! |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2020-04-26 | 5 | Johndhagan | F*I*E*N*D*S | A great combination of humour, horror and history, hosted by three men who love their subject, love books and stories and love to share it with their listeners. It was especially good to stumble across this treasure-trove of blasphemous podcasts during the Lockdown occasioned by the global pandemic, which doubtless heralds the rising of the drowned city of R’lyeh. Come to the snug of the (virtual) New England pub where these three are hanging out, and raise a glass in defiance of the Apocalypse ! |
![]() | United States | 2020-05-03 | 5 | kat0529 | A dang good pod | I first checked this out while looking for more role play coc and was disappointed that they don't actually run campaigns in this pod. However it's become a favorite of mine. All three hosts are quite knowledgeable and entertaining. Especially enjoy the npc's from history episodes. |
![]() | Canada | 2020-05-12 | 5 | Renac2206 | The MOST humble | I've been binge-listening to the Good Friends since October, having started in connection to Halloween. Ever since then they have entertained and informted with clear, witty, and insightful commentaries on the works of H.P. Lovecraft, and the Call of Cthulhu RPG. While I have not yet played the CoC RPG myself, I have found their advice, ideas, and conversations so stimulating that I have added elements of horror, madness, and innovated mechanics, to my other weekly RPG's. Thank you kindly. |
![]() | United States | 2020-07-29 | 5 | Michaeljc4 | This is a great podcast! | I have been playing Call of Cthulhu for almost 40 years. I am very much enjoying this podcast, and getting a glimpse behind the thinking that led the new seventh edition. It is also a lot of fun to hear fellow horror enthusiast talk about ghosts and monsters and cults! It is like sitting at a table with a good friend and having a fun conversation about the hobby that we love. Well done fellas. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2020-08-24 | 5 | Saintlycambs | Tentacles | I love this podcast. Lots of information about Call of Cthulhu and, to a lesser extent, other RPGs. It also covers horror. The hosts are British and, for me, it has a very easy to listen to feel with a slight air of menace from the Chthonic material under consideration. I like the music and other sound effects used by the show. I think it all works well to reinforce the Call of Cthulhu atmosphere. The only disappointment is that the hosts have now stopped singing ‘thank you’ to high level Patreon donors. I enjoyed those ‘thank yous’ very much. Please bring them back. If you want to develop your geek and become an expert in Cthulhu, Lovecraft and associated material then this is definitely the place to start. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2020-09-17 | 5 | Mase Escasi | SAN-bustingly Good | In their shed at Milton Keynes, three albinos wander amid the new town’s cosmic roundabouts, reading the malodorous tomes they have inherited through four decades of roleplaying. Gorgons, hydras and chimeras, dire stories of the concrete cow; the archetypes are in us, and eternal. The best horror podcast bar none. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2020-12-13 | 5 | thermalsatsuma | Cthulhu and much more | Although this is billed as a gaming podcast, it covers a broad range of subjects, including in depth discussion of the works of HP Lovecraft, horror films (both classic and obscure) and a recent run of episodes looking at cults and conspiracy theories in an informative and entertaining way. The three hosts are clearly long term friends with a great rapport that comes over in the podcast. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2020-12-13 | 5 | Victor78610 | Best Call fo Cthulhu podcast | regardless if you are a player or a DM, you will find very insightful ideas for your campaign here |
![]() | United States | 2020-12-13 | 5 | Law Dog 3248 | Great Stuff | Sometimes it’s hard to find great TTRPG podcasts that aren’t D&D. This is a great one for Call of Cthulhu. If you like listening to RPGs, I’d highly recommend this one. |
![]() | Ireland | 2020-12-13 | 5 | Stephen Cumiskey | The Good Friends of Jackson Elias | I found my way to this podcast from mentions in What would the smart party do and Grognard files podcasts and I'm pleased to say it has led to a revival of my interest in the Call of Chtulhu RPG. I am currently stockpiling scenarios ready to run when the plague times pass (I may even attempt to run something online...). The three hosts are involved to various degrees with writing the rules and scenarios for the recent edition, making it interesting to hear their thinking on why the game works the way it does. Their notes on how using everything from Lovecraft's own stories to various horror films as inspiration for scenarios is commendably practical and a pleasant reminder of teenage days spent scouring second hand book shops for books to inspire fantasy RPG scenarios. One of the presenters (Scott) also sounds like he might actually be a wizard / antiquarian, which is a nice bonus. |
![]() | Taiwan | 2020-12-13 | 5 | 輕煙 | Great Horror Podcast | It’s the great Call of Cthulhu/Horror podcast! Thanks for all your host and staff’s great effort on this podcast! |
![]() | Canada | 2020-12-13 | 5 | Closterphobia | My favourite horror podcast. | I came to this podcast after deciding to be a keeper for the Call of Cthulhu RPG after not having played it for near 30 years. Not only did I find great gaming advice, but also a plethora of episodes on horror movies, games and books, historical figures, cults and secret societies and so much more. Matt, Paul and Scott are wonderful to listen to, especially after you catch onto their personalities after binging several episodes. I enjoyed it so much I recently became a Patreon backer. Long live TGFOJE! |
![]() | United States | 2020-12-13 | 5 | RedPawn3 | Great Source of Inspiration | This is a great source of inspiration for Call of Cthulhu gaming, writing, and thought. Topics are diverse ranging from mechanics, game mastery, player mastery, writing, film and novel inspiration, real world aspects of life. Engaging, interesting, and downright educating. Familiar and comfortable like a good friend. |
![]() | United States | 2020-12-13 | 5 | ThDunwichHorror | Put my brain in a jar and call me Akeley | This podcast is my go to for all CAll of Cthulhu gaming inspirations, insight and just great discussions all around. Highly recommend for any Lovecraft enthusiast. |
![]() | United States | 2020-12-16 | 5 | CorporateSlave44 | Paul, Scott, & Matt bringing the Madness | Absolutely been loving the show! This podcast is a vital listening tool for any Call of Cthulhu Keepers. Episodes are stuffed with so much good discussion your mind will be spinning with ideas after each episode. Keep up the great work. |
![]() | Spain | 2020-12-16 | 5 | Hman1978stp | Great podcast, lots of inspiration and expertise. | If you want to learn about Cthulhu mythos, Lovecraft, horror films and how to apply that into your ttrpgs (or not) look no further. They’re fun and they know what they talk about, very well produced and with very interesting content. Back them on Patreon! |
![]() | United States | 2020-12-16 | 5 | ThingFromSpace | Great show, Best Vibes | Nailing the vibes and creating amazing atmosphere propels the conversations the Friends have into delightful podcasting. Lovecraft and other spooky topics are what my mornings consist of. |
![]() | Australia | 2021-02-28 | 5 | Laurie Koudstaal | A fun and interesting discussion of horror gaming | I love listening to these guys. Not only are they knowledgeable and interesting, but they’re also really funny! Hearings Scott (occasionally) swear in a posh accent never gets old! |
![]() | Denmark | 2021-04-10 | 5 | David kasia | Superb! | Looking for some info about Call of Cthulhu? Then this is the podcast you're looking for. (Quote from a totally different franchise, but hey im still a bit new to COC.) I will update with a COC quote when i find one while playing through the game! |
![]() | Australia | 2021-06-01 | 5 | Laurie Koudstaal | Why I like GFJE and you might too | 1. Entertaining synopses of horror films and how you might use them in your games. I actually prefer their synopses to watching the films! 2. NPCs of history are really interesting. I like learning about these historical persons who were (mostly) rather awful. 3. Learning about the Cthulhu mythos. I’m not a great fan of Lovecraft, but I do like hearing them talk about it and speculate. 4. They’re quite entertaining, knowledgeable and interesting blokes. Seem like good guys in general. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2021-07-07 | 5 | NatManBurgess | Good Friends indeed | I have been listening to this podcast now for over a year and I am now in 2017.. the accessibility of this podcast is something else, when I’m running a game I know that GFoJE would of covered any questions I may have and if not they soon will.. This podcast has gotten me through some tough times especially during the pandemic as I work for the NHS as an acute mental health support worker! I’m currently on the Storytelling collection course so watch out Scott, Matt and Paul! Sending lots of sanity Discord: NatMan |
![]() | United States | 2021-08-06 | 5 | BrySquatch | Absolutely fantastic! | I like to try out a lot of gaming related podcasts, but I find so many of them wanting. The Good Friends of Jackson Elias is most definitely not one of those. This is fantastic podcast! The hosts are so knowledgeable and interesting, and their conversations never drag. They do such a great job of covering a variety of topics, not necessarily gaming related, and finding really interesting ways of tying it all back to the hobby that so many of us love. The production value is really high here, which is something that can often be missing from some other shows. To paraphrase Joe Bob, 5 stars! Check it out! |
![]() | United States | 2021-11-17 | 5 | ggergnayr | Great across the board | I’ve never played Call of Cthulhu but this podcast has helped me run DnD, Nights Black Agents, Blades in the Dark, and a few other games. Insightful episodes on GMing theory, horror and horror theory, and what makes gaming better than good. |
![]() | United States | 2021-12-07 | 5 | Jami Spradlin | Good Friends, Good Games, Great Conversation | I listened to this podcast for 9000 minutes this year- which seems a bit low, as often as I end up turning on an episode when driving or doing chores! The Good Friends got me into Call of Cthulhu as well as some delightfully demented novels and movies. The hosts are all funny and thoughtful, with surprisingly tasteful senses of humor, and their advice for Keepers is incredibly solid. |
![]() | Canada | 2022-02-03 | 5 | Condie31 | What a delightful dip into all things horror! | Paul, Scott, and Matt. I wanted to thank you for the many wonderful hours I have spent listening to your voices preach the words of a cruel uncaring world. I first discovered you nearly two years ago when I first heard Scott on How We Roll, since then I have binged all of their episodes and now, as of today, I have fully caught up on all of yours. I have done what I can to hunt down the scenarios you all have written for Call of Cthuhlu and plan on running as many of them as possible. All three of your are brilliant experts in running Call of Cthulhu, or any game in fact. While the three of you appear to take different approaches to running the game, you all have offered a wealth of gaming advice and knowledge that I have found to be immensely useful. Also, all three of you have such wonderful voices to listen to, I swear I could listen to the three of you talk about any subject. I hope to join your patreon this year and i look forward to joining the fun of the Blasphemous Tome! Cheers Kyle |
![]() | Canada | 2022-05-25 | 1 | teesmi | Avoid at all costs | It’s a shame the podcast is everything wrong with the RPG world. Its a boys club who bully anyone who plays differently or who says anything different from the ruling party. The moderators don’t care about anything except getting people to sign up for the patreon. Lots of people have stopped playing Call of Cthulhu because of the creepy gatekeeper. Avoid at all costs. |
![]() | Canada | 2022-08-28 | 5 | Condie31 | What a delightful dip into all things horror! | Paul, Scott, and Matt. I wanted to thank you for the many wonderful hours I have spent listening to your voices preach the words of a cruel uncaring world. I first discovered you nearly two years ago when I first heard Scott on How We Roll, since then I have binged all of their episodes and now, as of today, I have fully caught up on all of yours. I have done what I can to hunt down the scenarios you all have written for Call of Cthuhlu and plan on running as many of them as possible. All three of your are brilliant experts in running Call of Cthulhu, or any game in fact. While the three of you appear to take different approaches to running the game, you all have offered a wealth of gaming advice and knowledge that I have found to be immensely useful. Also, all three of you have such wonderful voices to listen to, I swear I could listen to the three of you talk about any subject. I hope to join your patreon this year and i look forward to joining the fun of the Blasphemous Tome! Cheers Kyle Update!: I joined your patreon, I’m loving the past issues of the fan zine and I just ran Night Bus for my table and it was a horrific delight. Thanks for all the fun, frights, and inspiration. |
![]() | United States | 2022-11-25 | 1 | JediYaris | Not worth the listen | It’s like listening to three basement dwelling nerds wang on about absolutely boring ideas. In the vein of all things Lovecraftian these English lobsters prattle on about an American. You lost mate. American literary people can be enjoyed by anyone, but these three hosts, come off it man. |
![]() | United States | 2023-01-14 | 3 | Bobbyquarrier | Very interesting | I throughly enjoy this podcast when the hosts discuss horror media and gaming. They do have a tendency to veer into politics in an incredibly off-putting way, however there are still some real gems for those who don’t mind their off-topic tirades. |
![]() | United States | 2018-04-04 | 1 | anthologos | Gentlemen gamers (and tipplers) Updated | Updated April 2018 Am still an avid listener and Patreon backer after several years, and still find myself listening to their old episodes with great joy and intellectual pleasure. Scott, Paul, and Matt share a darkly-infectious enthusiasm for their hobby and this podcast has honestly been one of my greatest game-related pleasures over the past few years. My only regret is that I am unable to share a game and a story or two with them in person, but the airwaves (so to speak) are a fair substitute, as are their writings, which are as clever as their on-air personalities. If you have not listened yet, and have any interest in Call of Cthulhu, role-playing games more generally, horror and dark narratives of any sort, or just good humour and friendship, you should try the Good Friends podcast post-haste, and sample their various writings as well. You will never be disappointed. ******** The Good Friends are very clever gamers and writers of grand wit and humour. Neither autistic savants droningly correcting the harmless solecisms of fellow players 'round the table, nor shrill poltergeists hurling ghastly pebbles of polemic, they are gentlemen who balance erudition and enthusiasm, and their long-forged camaraderie is genuine and warm. Their friendship makes for repartee that is very easy to listen to. Even if you are not a Cthulhu gamer, you will love listening over these good friends’ shoulders. Scott Dorward, who of the three perhaps maintains the most active online presence, deserves special kudos for being the rare gamer whose forum persona is helpful, intelligent, and keen, rather than insufferable. Check him out on their own forum, blasphemoustomes.com or on reddit gaming fora. TL:DR…love the podcast, listen multiple times. Great, great stuff! |
![]() | United States | 2023-04-11 | 5 | Majdo2020 | A favorite | One of my favorite podcasts. I consider these three guys talking to each other one of my comfort podcasts and have gone back to listen to episodes about spooky old Gods and monsters. I love when they riff especially and take a small element of the setting and turn it into an adventure. |
![]() | United States | 2023-06-13 | 5 | Missmegan1521 | smart funny & well organized | i love the smart funny takes on that week’s given topics (accents do help the charm, as does imagining scott & his magician’s beard as it exists in my mind based on convos ) but it’s also on of the best edited & formatted for podcasting too! |
![]() | United States | 2023-08-23 | 5 | Jcbutler | A grand time had by all! | In full disclosure, I am NOT an RPG player; however, this fact has not interfered with my enjoyment of this podcast! I am a fan of the fiction of Lovecraft and horror that falls under the heading of “Lovecraftian “, Scott, Paul and Matt are having a grand and glorious time cussing and discussing all things Lovecraft, sci-if, as well as all of the weirdness that inhabits the world of RPG. It does make me want to take the time to begin RPG, although at 52 years old, it may be a bit late for me. I can’t recommend them highly enough ( plus they all have lovely British accents, so the horrible things they might say all sound superb!) Cheers guys! |
![]() | Australia | 2023-08-28 | 4 | CookieMunster82 | Good basic Lovecraft discussion | Very knowledgeable about Lovecraft, but they fall over when it comes to pop culture or anything beyond the immediate focus. That’s fine, but it limits how well they can discuss Lovecraft, horror and weird fiction when 60% -70% references go zooming past them. If you like listening to your dad’s friends argue, this is the podcast for you. They’re gagging for more modern input though. |
![]() | United States | 2023-10-04 | 5 | Oodaloop | Enjoyed it for a while | As someone who has listened for a while, I have finally gotten around to writing a review. This show and it’s hosts are superb. They bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the games and media they love. They also have a lot of fun and seem to enjoy riffing off of each other. They bring the genre and their authored materials to life in a way that few can. Recommended and worth your time. |
![]() | United Kingdom | 2023-10-07 | 5 | TheRealRaindog | Strangely eclectic for such specific subject matter. | Have just spent the last few months catching up with 10 years of podcasts and never once felt that I was done with Horror/Lovecraft. Has inspired me to go back to playing CoC again for the first time in 30 years. Running my first game next week and feeling confident after the advice and info I now have. |