Smosh Reads Reddit Stories: Critical FAIL Stories | Episode Summary
Release Date: April 12, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of Smosh Reads Reddit Stories, hosts Shane, along with guests Spencer and George Primavera from the Smosh Games team, dive into the murky waters of tabletop gaming mishaps. Centered around the theme "Critical FAIL Stories," the trio explores a selection of Reddit submissions that highlight some of the most memorable and cringe-worthy moments in gaming sessions. From unreciprocated support in relationships to overbearing Dungeon Masters (DMs), the episode offers a blend of humor, empathy, and insightful commentary on the dynamics of gaming communities.
1. Am I the Asshole? – Refusing to Play a Girlfriend’s Visual Novel
Reddit Username: kidsandfamily
A 27-year-old man questions whether he's in the wrong for declining to engage with his 24-year-old girlfriend's side project—a visual novel game she developed over two years. Despite acknowledging her efforts and the quality of her work after a brief 15-minute playthrough, he cites a lack of interest in the genre and reading as his reasons for not continuing.
Key Discussion Points:
- Support in Relationships: Spencer highlights the importance of showing interest in a partner's passions, stating, “This is literally how it feels when you guys aren’t into a game that I put on Smosh Games.” [03:16]
- Commitment and Effort: The hosts agree that dismissing a significant other's creative endeavor reflects poorly on the relationship's support system.
Verdict: The consensus is clear—He is the asshole. The community emphasizes that while personal interests vary, making an intentional effort to support a partner's project holds significant relational value.
2. D&D Horror Stories – DM Kills My Character for No Reason
Subreddit: DNDHorrorStories
A player recounts how taking a Planned Time Off (PTO) led to his DM unfairly penalizing his character upon return. After missing a session, his character was subjected to disadvantage in combat rolls. Ultimately, his character was slain by an unexpected bird attack, leaving him spectating for an hour and diminishing his investment in the campaign.
Key Discussion Points:
- Fair Play: Spencer criticizes the DM's unilateral decisions, remarking, “15 minutes is crazy. A bowl of cereal is 15 minutes.” [05:25]
- Player Agency: The importance of maintaining player trust and ensuring punishments are justified and communicated transparently.
Verdict: Not directly labeled as an asshole situation, but the DM's actions are unequivocally unprofessional and detrimental to the gaming experience.
3. D&D Horror Stories – My Player Fell in Love with Me (the DM)
Subreddit: DNDHorrorStories
In a dramatic twist, a DM finds herself in an uncomfortable situation where one of her players, Dylan, professes romantic feelings towards her character. This blurs the lines between in-game interactions and real-life relationships, leading to tensions within the group and eventual suspension of the campaign.
Key Discussion Points:
- Boundary Management: Addressing the importance of maintaining professional and respectful boundaries between players and DMs.
- Group Dynamics: How personal feelings can disrupt the harmony and fun of collaborative storytelling.
Verdict: This scenario underscores the necessity for clear boundaries and the potential consequences when they are violated. The player exhibits inappropriate behavior, while the DM handles the situation by removing the player, prioritizing the group’s well-being.
4. D&D Horror Stories – Playing a Woman and Experiencing Sexism
Subreddit: DNDHorrorStories
A female DM shares her experiences of subtle sexism in her D&D sessions. Despite playing a powerful sorcerer, her character often receives less respect from NPCs compared to male counterparts. The DM provides varying reasons for this disparity, but the pattern persists, leading to frustration and a temporary halt in the campaign.
Key Discussion Points:
- Representation and Respect: The subtle biases that can manifest in role-playing games and their impact on female players.
- Awareness and Change: Encouraging DMs and players to recognize and address sexist behaviors to create a more inclusive environment.
Verdict: While not an outright asshole scenario, this story highlights systemic issues within gaming groups that require conscious effort to rectify.
5. D&D Horror Stories – DM Went to Pee and Never Returned
Subreddit: DNDHorrorStories
A minimalistic yet unsettling story where a DM abruptly leaves a session citing a bathroom break and never returns. The sudden absence leaves players in limbo, unsure of the campaign's continuation and the group's future.
Key Discussion Points:
- DM Responsibility: The crucial role of the DM in ensuring the continuity and enjoyment of the game.
- Player Experience: The uncertainty and frustration caused by an unprofessional DM departure.
Verdict: An unprofessional and disrespectful act, making the DM at fault for neglecting the group's engagement and investment.
6. D&D Horror Stories – DM Says I Can't Be a Bard
Subreddit: DNDHorrorStories
A player presents multiple creative bard character concepts, only to have his ideas dismissed by the DM for being clichéd or overpowered. From a former con artist cursed to always tell the truth to a sorcerer who steals voices, the DM's outright rejection leaves the player feeling undervalued and restricted.
Key Discussion Points:
- Creative Freedom: The balance between a DM’s guidance and a player’s creative input in character development.
- Inclusivity of Classes: Ensuring all character classes, including bards, are welcomed and valued within the campaign.
Verdict: The DM is in the wrong for stifling a player's creativity and failing to encourage diverse character roles, thereby impacting the game’s inclusivity and enjoyment.
Conclusion
This episode of Smosh Reads Reddit Stories sheds light on the various pitfalls and challenges within tabletop gaming, particularly in Dungeons & Dragons. From unsupportive relationships and overbearing DMs to experiences of subtle sexism, the discussions emphasize the importance of respect, communication, and inclusivity in fostering a positive gaming environment. The hosts and guests effectively blend humor with constructive critique, encouraging both players and DMs to reflect on their actions and strive for more harmonious and enjoyable gaming experiences.
Notable Quotes:
- Spencer: “This is literally how it feels when you guys aren’t into a game that I put on Smosh Games.” [03:16]
- Shane: “Reading and artwork, it's a whole lot.” [05:08]
- Spencer: “15 minutes is crazy. A bowl of cereal is 15 minutes.” [05:25]
- George Primavera: “He couldn't power through those first 15 minutes.” [08:08]
- Spencer: “You just went, my eyes hurt.” [06:39]
- Shane: “Relationships require effort. If you aren’t willing to put in the effort to support her work and do something for her, I hope she can find someone who does.” [09:15]
- Spencer: “Bards are great. Sometimes DMs have good reasons... but this is not one of those moments.” [57:22]
Final Thoughts
Through engaging storytelling and candid discussions, Smosh Reads Reddit Stories provides valuable insights into the dynamics of tabletop gaming. By addressing both humorous and serious scenarios, the podcast encourages a deeper understanding of the importance of empathy, support, and fairness in creating memorable and enjoyable gaming experiences for all participants.