The Call of Cthulhu Mystery Program

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What dark deeds unfold on the streets of Arkham? And which unwitting souls will succumb to the maddening call... OF CTHULHU?Cosmic horror and black comedy meld in this award-winning audio drama that explores Lovecraftian lore in queer and uncanny ways. Meet unlikely heroes from all walks of life who'll risk their sanity to keep the world spinning as they face down eldritch nightmares, unholy rituals, kindly creatures, and monstrous humans. Each season is a standalone tale where our cast lives the terror, uncovering the edge-of-your-seat mysteries, in this unholy fusion of live tabletop roleplaying and cinematic audio fiction.

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Recent Reviews
  • missionpossiblemomma
    Season 1 five stars
    Season 2 is bad, going to listen to season 3
  • ShellyS210
    Amazing!
    Absolutely love this show, it’s so fun and so creepy. Howling House it top tier. This show reignited my passion for TTRPGs, to the point that I’m running my own Cthulhu campaign now. And I don’t care what anyone else says, Father Grandfather is great.
  • Qubee80
    I love this
    I love this podcast. It reminds me of the old radio series from back in the time frame of the 1920s and 30s. Keep it up I’m always excited to listen to the next episode.
  • DragonNite55555
    Can’t wait for the next season!
    I’m going to talk about Season 4 because that’s what I have the most to say about. S4 is an interesting combination of my least favorite of the story arcs with my favorite overall narration style. The first part is very much just due to my personal tastes (as opposed to anything about the podcast itself); I personally tend not to enjoy stories with small children as the protagonists like they have in S4, especially given some of the recurring themes that came up (though I _do_ want to give a shout out for the great job they do with content warnings before each episode). While the story my not have been my favorite for personal reasons, the style with which it’s delivered is _incredible_. On the spectrum between actual play and audio drama, seasons 2 and 3 skew more to actual play. While season 1 was probably my favorite of the seasons in terms of story arcs, if I’m being honest, some scenes felt a little too scripted. While interesting, some of the conversations between characters didn’t feel like the kind of thing that would naturally come up during play. Season 4, in my opinion, _nailed_ the balance between actual play and audio drama. Everything that happens very much feels like what might occur around the table, albeit without natural verbal fumbles that tend to occur in real life. On top of this, the way the players and GM interacted was phenomenal. Even though from a meta perspective there are places that are essentially a player asking for more details from the GM, it’s presented as the character interacting with the narrator. It’s a very cool way to seamlessly integrate necessary information without interrupting the flow of the narrative. It also allows for some elements of an unreliable narrator when the GM presents a character with information that is clearly not in their best interest (possibly due to a failed sanity roll that gets cut out?). Speaking of, they also did a great job balancing when to cut out the mechanics from the audio. I would imagine it’s a tricky balance to make: leave too much in and it bogs down the story but leave too much out and the story can feel more scripted (even when it really wasn’t). Given the obvious progression of their actual play/audio drama style based on the seasons, I’m really excited for their future story arcs! I’m looking forward to listening to their skills with a story arc that more up my alley. The only real downside to the podcast is their ongoing struggle with getting the funding they need. While I don’t know anything about what really goes into making a podcast, the amount of time they must spend editing the audio and polishing it not to mention adding sound effects and hiring voice actors makes me easily see why it must be an expensive endeavor. Here’s hoping they get enough funds to allow them to come out with the next season sooner rather than later!
  • RPD23
    Very Entertaining!
    New to the Cthulhu RPG, excellent way to learn the RPG. Very entertaining to listen to, excellent artistic talent with this group all around!
  • Anne Onimous II
    Great series of Call of Cthulhu stories in the style of old time radio!
    Great series of Call of Cthulhu stories in the style of old time radio!
  • くらい☆
    Call of Cthulhu at it’s finest
    This podcast is so unique and wonderful! Full of talented people!
  • GoardBames
    Otherworldly
    If you haven’t checked this podcast out, or haven’t listened in a while, do yourself a favor and listen to the latest season. Season 4 is an astounding piece of production that truly takes this series to whole different plane.
  • avil666
    It only takes one bad apple to ruin the batch
    Father Grandfather is trying to be funny but is really just played by a jackass who gets off derailing things.
  • Thunder_812
    DELIGHTFUL
    Just finished binging series 2 and this show is exquisite.
  • Ben FYM
    Incredible
    The direction this show is headed for season 3 is truly impressive. It’s also the first ttrpg podcast I’ve heard that’s spoken knowledgeably about Thelema and even offered legitimate criticism of it. However, despite its high quality, this explicit podcast should be labeled “woke” due to the concerns of its commenters. ;)
  • Raygnar23
    Can anything just be fun ?
    Does all entertainment need to be Woke?
  • Hannibal King
    Favorite podcast
    Easily my favorite podcast since 2015. The Black Birth is my favorite storyline but Secret of Lot X and Crack’d and Crook’d Manse are still very good. Father Grandfather is hysterical as Lovecraftian comedic relief, if such a thing exists. They have several other impressive audio RPG shows, check them out!
  • socstonewall
    Looking into the abyss and something looking back
    Great POD cast, let’s me live my gamer life vicarious through listing. Could do without the “ woke commercials”, other than that it a fun listen.
  • Horror is Funny
    Truly rough and uncontrolled
    There are two things that can ruin an RPG - an uncontrolled player or a referee who has no control of their scenario. Both are present with the first season of this podcast. The very opening of the campaign was so incredibly chaotic due to the allowed actions of one player acting completely outside of ANY character ever created ( including The Joker) and the referee not being able to control the flow from that character to the rest of the cast. I stopped listening after the second episode, but might give the second season a try if the referee is different. Hopefully the poorly played Bible Salesman has been killed off by then. However, first impressions are important, and despite the disclaimer about this being the humble start of the show, this impression is like Sylvester Stallone imitating Sir Lawrence Olivier in MacBeth or something horrible like that.
  • Rhlursen
    Love it
    I am really enjoying the old radio feel, and the cast is really good. It has a great mix of comedy and spooky.
  • yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeer
    Everything I was looking for
    I was looking for a Call of Cthullu podcast so I could start being a Keeper myself and couldnt stop listening to the Lot X story and of course my favorite character Oswald St.Clair
  • Firecop890
    Season 2 Part 6
    Just finished this episode and it was like all the previous outstanding!!! If the episodes weren’t enough the bonus songs at the end are always amazing! However, True Love by Ellen Reid was without question the best one!! Saddens me I can not find it anywhere.
  • Deraj the Yuler
    I literally stumbled on this...
    I was looking for an entertaining Eldritch horror type podcast to listen to at work, I was extremely surprised to find a show that I fell in love with immediately! This blend of radio show and tabletop game is amazing, I feel like I’ve found a show that will continue to grow exponentially. I love what I’ve heard and I love how much love you guys put into this show, the funny ads, the great sound effects, the deep story and moments. Season 2 is completely refined and I can’t wait to hear more!
  • Mak4797
    A Very Unexpected Podcast
    This in expected podcast has blown my expectation and my mind. It’s full of fun and intriguing mystery. I would recommend this to everyone.
  • Famanir
    Not much of a reviewer
    I don’t normally review things, but I wanted to review The Cthulu Mystery Program. I’m a little biased towards smaller productions that are trying to make it, but you would never guess that about this program. It’s dramatic sound design combined with a dynamic cast and well written story culminate in a unique audio drama experience that draws you in to just the right kind of madness. I binge listened to the first two series and am eagerly awaiting the release of series 3. Keep up the good work!!
  • jaimelalone
    Mix of actual play and scripted audo drama FTW
    Cap and the crew at Omniverse have done a phenomial job crafting a beautiful hybrid experience. From actual play, dice roll outcome emerges the basis for a cohesive storytelling experience. The first season was done as a one-off years before Season 2, but does lack some of the polish. It's an entertaining story, but, like some of the best shows, they really hit their stride in Season 2. I would highly recommend this as an audiodrama first, then as a tabletop RPG. Give it a go, but remember to roll Sanity!
  • x666nightmare
    High quality and immersive lovecraft horror.
    The Call of Cthulhu Mystery program puts a flag in the ground with it’s well versed voice acting, fantastic stories that both chill and excite, and not the least of which is their sound effects and very appropriate musical selections. If you enjoy drama and a grand adventure against unknowable horrors beyond time, it’s a must listen.
  • Father Nickname
    A great mystery program.
    Great mix of horror and comedy. Great story also.
  • Starcrab
    Fantastic, gripping, fun radio drama
    This program is so much fun. Very well produced, great characters, great story. I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys Call of Cthulhu, radio dramas, or just good storytelling.
  • StealthSuitStanley
    Skip season one and go to season two.
    Season one is rough, mostly because of Father Grandfather. The character is quite annoying. I’m in season two now and it is a must listen. Great storytelling, believable character interactions and excellent audio quality. Not family friendly!
  • Foozbin
    Amazing character work
    Especially in season 2 the character work really shines through the horror (and within the horror) for an extremely satisfying story.
  • Skullagar
    One of the best live play Call of Cthulhu podcast
    I loved the unique aspect of this podcast which was the radio drama feel of it. The one thing that irked however is father grandfather. He seemed to “murder hoboy” for a game that is mostly about the investigation then the combat. Overall a great Call of Cthulhu podcast that I hope will continue.
  • Mr.ZCD
    Almost perfect but...
    I genuinely love season one and was super excited about season two but, I hate father grandfather. I don’t know if it’s just that when I’ve played rpgs with people in the past that tend to steal the entire gameplay and immediately derail the game within the first session it kind of turns me off. I genuinely loved this though but at some point someone needed to pull whoever was playing father grandfather aside and remind him not to split the party.
  • jaf500
    Great show, best lovecraft live play
    If your looking for an entertaining radio show this will do the job. If your looking for a live play this is amazing. If your looking for a call of Cthulhu live play this blows all other ones out if the water. Better production, better editing, better characters, funnier and truer to the spirit of the game
  • ArborBarber
    Great radio show / actual play hybrid
    A talented Keeper and creative players make for an immersive story, and the high-quality sound design make it a pleasure to listen to. Truly horrifying. Keep the episodes coming!
  • AngryDoctor
    First season was wild card
    I loved the raw feeling of season one. It was fun and raw. It felt like friends hanging out an enjoying random game play. Season two was very scripted. I don’t like this type of play.
  • The Multicam Yeti
    Truly amazing series
    I’ve only ever played Call of Cthulhu once before. However, this series has rekindled my interest in the stories of Other Worldly Gods and the poor naive people who investigate them. Filled with crazy characters like Season 1’s Father Grandfather and dynamic duos like Season 2’s Oswald Sinclair and Moses Ruben Cubbenfield. I genuinely hope to see more and more seasons in the future.
  • CorporateSlave44
    Fan-freakin-tactic!
    Love the high quality production and excellent character portrayals. This old school (1st edition) CoC gamer approves!!!
  • Akiva David
    Amazing!
    I *love* the radio-drama format of this RPG podcast. Great production values—including audio quality, sound effects, and music—along with an engaging story and excellent acting make this a must listen for RPG podcast fans. A cut above all the rest!
  • Japansen
    Loved S01, Hated S02
    Season 1 was more of an audio ride-a-long as the played the RPG, infused with the radio drama feel. It was hilarious and fun, but Season 2 is HEAVY on the radio drama with almost invisible RPG elements. I couldn’t make it through the first episode, it was painful and not enjoyable. I would much prefer listening the antics of players and a DM instead of this new version.
  • IneffableGrey86
    That Guy
    Tried listening to this, and I couldn’t even make it halfway through the first session (Ep. 2) because of the clown playing the bible salesman. He’s absolutely a “that guy”: a selfish, unfunny idiot who’s seemingly only interested in detailing the game. Add to that that his voice (both his real voice and his character voice) are grating to listen to, and he absolutely ruined this podcast for me in minutes. I think the Keeper does a disservice to both the other players and the listeners by letting that continue. Maybe you guys are all friends and that’s just your style, but I wouldn’t want someone like that at my table and I’m certainly not going to waste my time listening to it when literally anything else is available to listen to. That includes the wind outside my car window. Points for the effort put into audio design and production value in what little I heard, though.
  • SquidEyes
    You're Among Friends!
    Talented voice actors, compelling storyline, and lots of humor! It really felt like I was sitting down with friends. Highly recommend--one of the best podcasts I've listened to!
  • Ehiker133
    Pure Podcast Magic
    These completely sane people set the bar for podcasting quality, content, and creativity. I don’t know if I’ve heard a story told better - certainly not on a podcast. The mechanics of the game are so seamlessly injected into the dialogue that you’ll barely notice they are there. I’m mostly through Season 2 and can’t wait for Season 3 to kick off. If you have any sense at all, you’ll start at the beginning of Season 1. Now. Or take 1D6 Insanity Points.
  • Swank1096
    Thoroughly Enjoyed!
    Fun, slightly creepy, and made me chuckle often!
  • Mr. Big Handsome
    Such a charming show
    Memorable characters set in a compelling story and presented in a creative fashion. A real showcase of talent
  • Tolo Romassi
    Actual Play at its finest
    Most Cthulhu games focus on on pure horror or zany comedy. This show is somehow able to both, and with incredible sound design that rivals ANY audio drama. It's not going to please everyone, but if you like Lovecraft and have a dark sense of humor, you've gotta hear it.
  • Jam23504
    So addicting that I can’t get enough
    Just randomly click on this and thought it looked interesting. So glad I did too. From the first series I was instantly hooked. I couldn’t help but imagine that I was seeing of what I was listening to. Very immersive and I wish there was a video series also.
  • Dana Evan
    Worth your time
    Always a joy when new episodes drop. These cats put on a great show and it’s appreciated.
  • Mclauriman
    Greatest Cthulhu Podcast There is
    This podcast is amazing as are the actors and creators behind the podcast! I can’t wait for season 3 and can’t wait to get some mercy! Keep up the great work raining madness down upon everyone with the amazing podcast! However please do not awaken The great Old One!
  • TheWizardofRhetKhonn
    An Enthralling Venture in RPG Cosmic Horror
    The Call of Cthulhu Mystery Program is one of Nerdy Show’s best productions. The first season had me at the edge of my seat, and the second season is one of the best audio dramas (production and story-wise) I’ve ever heard. It’s delightfully creepy, and the fact that it seamlessly integrates the actual play RPG elements into the story is an added bonus. Seriously, if you love a good story and need a fix of that good ol’ Lovecraftian horror, give the Call of Cthulhu Mystery Program a listen.
  • abak283
    Terrible
    Listened to the first episode. It was terrible! One particular player did everything in his ability to ruin any bit of atmosphere that the keeper struggled to maintain. He was also extremely sexist which I know he was acting this way ironically but it was in poor taste and was pretty lame. Sorry but the production value was great but it was ruined by this player.
  • chiefofstuff
    great spooky podacast
    I have enjoyed both seasons. the first one was prettty funny . the second was way spookier. good job nerdy show cant wait for season three
  • Manda Mikala
    What a delightful show to listen to!
    I’m so happy with this show! I didn’t believe story’s told through audio could be better than visual media forms. I’m so happy I’m wrong! This is a quality show that really entertains, thrills, and has me laughing out loud as my co-workers give me strange glances.
  • Fancy Pantalo
    Awesome *spoilers*
    I like the first season but the second season was noticeably improved in terms of creating a linear story line with character development and sound effects and all. Plus for me personally the ending was a lot more satisfying. What can I say I like a happy ending or at least one where the entire cast doesn’t die/go to jail. Anyways you all are doing excellent stuff on this podcast and I can’t wait for the next one. Liberty sent me over here when I binged through everything they have out :)
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