It has been a treat to listen to this podcast since its inception. The growth in all aspects of this podcast has been amazing!, but what has always remained the same, is the love between the players and the humanity of everyone involved in this podcast. The story is fun and compelling and actually seeing each of you play during this last season has been wonderful! Your expressions are priceless! Well done TLR!!!

Love, love, love this podcast. I listen on Spotify so finally got around to reviewing over here. The world building is fun and solid, the dm-ing is really top notch, and the characters feel real while also being funny and fun. I love that all the players know their stuff and play really well while also being silly with a flair for the dramatic. I especially love how Kit/Karin keeps everyone grounded and moving along while also being such a delightful character herself.

This podcast is so incredible. Just pure gold. I just wanted to thank y’all for everything you do, this podcast is what made me realize that I am actually bisexual! Hugely look up to Alex (well all of you) and all the representation dm jazzy hands Brings to the table into the world you guys have created. As An aspiring dungeon master myself I take a lot of inspiration (hahaha pun intended) from everything y’all do on this podcast and as a person for everything y’all stand for. Can’t wait for season 10(and series 2?)!

I have to say that I rarely ever leave reviews, not because I don’t care to or don’t want to support the podcasts I listen to, (it’s quite the opposite really) but I often, even when reminded, am swept up with other things while listening and forget to go back. (ADHD is a terrible thing. 😔) Also, brevity has never been a virtue of mine so I should probably apologize for that in advance. Now, with that out of the way, I have to say I’ve been meaning to write this review for a very long time. I myself am a queer polyamorous trans man, and can state with 100% conviction that I feel safe, seen, understood, and supported both through the fiction of this podcast and by the wonderful individuals who create it. There’s plenty of representation and it’s done in a thoughtful, natural, way that’s sure to put anyone in the alphabet mafia at ease. I won’t ever be able to thank the TLR team enough for that safe space and inclusivity within the ttrpg community. If for no other reason than this, TLR with always be near and dear to my heart as an occasional player, forever DM, and a queer individual who loves to listen to and tell stories. Beyond this, TLR is a podcast rich in world building, complexities, compelling characters, suspense, humor, and charm. DM Jazzy Hands and story consultant Robert have created a setting, plot, and npcs that flesh out their universe and both delight and intrigue. DM Jazzy Hands uses the rule of cool, and “yes and…” statements to help flesh out situations the party ends up stumbling into, making small moments memorable and entertaining, and big ones impactful while still maintaining a sense of order within the chaos. The player characters are endearing right off rip and their players themselves are not afraid to change and develop throughout the story, and eventually evolve into leaders in a world separated by social boundaries and great distance, all of which we get to see them overcome as the story progresses. It’s everything I could ask of a live action role play podcast. The editing, effects, and sound quality are phenomenal. I even look forward to the beginning of each episode and the easy banter between friends who very obviously care about one another and are eager to catch up and share a few minutes of their personal joys, complete with visual media and book recommendations. It’s not uncommon to find myself trying to reply verbally, often at the confusion of my immediate co-workers. (BTW Lydia has suggested some of my, now, all time favorite books! Thank you so much!) Since I am shy, and not particularly good at holding conversations, on top of working in a fairly isolated factory environment these few moments are a treat. We’ve never met but it feels like I’m sitting in a room full of friends each time I load up an episode. I’m excited for the next season and can’t wait for the final conclusion of the campaign! Thank you to all the TLR team. You’re all an inspiration both in story and out and I’m so grateful you all take the time out of your busy lives to continue to make this wonderful story. The friend y’all didn’t know you had. Ray. 💞

I’ve waited a long time to write this review (my completionist heart couldn’t bear to write something up until I was caught up, and I finally am as of June 2022!). I’m a long-time lover of D&D, and I work professionally in the TTRPG industry, so I have lots of opinions about this sort of nerdy stuff, but the one potential listeners need to hear is this: Everything that makes TTRPGs a worthwhile endeavor is here in this podcast. The story is thoughtful. The people behind the characters are genuine, creative, and hilarious. The “rule of cool” rules in the most engaging ways while allowing the traditional rules of the game to keep things unpredictable and exciting. (And everybody’s voice and laugh are so fun to listen to!) On a more personal note, I want to thank all of you who make this podcast a reality for the time and energy you gift to us listeners by sharing this creative process with us. I started listening to TLR during one of the hardest times of my life—a painful divorce, trauma recovery, moving house twice, severe depression—and being able to immerse myself into the world of TLR as an occasional reprieve was life-giving. Thank you for your vulnerably sharing your creativity. Thank you for helping the world consider difficult questions through story. Thank you for making me laugh. Thank you for showing players like me who have had rough experiences with playing 5e what a safe, welcoming, kickass table is like. Y’all are a blessing. ~ Misty

This actual play podcast an absolute must listen! I heard about TLR when DM Jazzy Hands went to Orcacon near Seattle in January and plugged his podcast after his panel. Since then I’ve been binging non-stop to catch up, and I finally did today! Just as good or even better than heavy-hitters like The Adventure Zone or Dungeons and Daddies, DM Jazzy Hands’ story-telling is intriguing, immersive and cohesive and a delight for the ear holes. The players have a perfect balance of fun and serious emotion as they come together like a family to help create this wonderful story. Highly recommend.

This is such a fun, engaging and thoughtful show. DMJazzyhands is extremely charismatic and is his players' biggest fan. The players are similarly charismatic, funny and clearly enjoy each others' company. The campaign and world is a homebrew which spotlights species which are usually relegated to NPCs in canon adventures. The story has plenty of conflict without resorting to lazy, bigoted tropes. It grapples with heavy topics without being gratuitously grimdark and still maintains its humor throughout. I can't say enough good things about it!

It’s such a joy to listen to people hanging out and having fun! I first listened to The Last Refuge around the time I started playing dnd because I was looking for podcasts to help me learn the game. I’m still listening (and supporting on Patreon!) because of how creative and fun the group is. There’s such a joyful chemistry with all the players and the DM—it’s glorious to behold. Thank you to TLR for keeping me company on my walks and being a reliable source of giggles. Can’t wait for more hijinks!

The Last Refuge was a podcast that I found when I was at a really low point in my life. I had just dropped out of school for a second time. I remember driving home from work and just putting on a DnD podcast and I fell in love with the characters and the world. So I listened to the show non-stop for the next few weeks and got inspired to pick up my paints for the first time in years and painted Flick. Then I painted Bria, Byzdera, and Kit. They weren’t very good but for once that didn’t matter to me. So as I fell in love with this podcast, I rediscover my love for art. Now as you are releasing season nine and getting close to the end I am back in school and studying art practice and creative writing. This podcast has everything that a good actual play has. It has heart and fun characters and drama with a great balance of rules and roleplaying. The post production and music just enhances the game. If you are looking for a good podcast to put on The Last Refuge deserves all five stars.

This is a gem that I can’t recommend highly enough for those who enjoy dnd podcasts (particularly like The Adventure Zone and Friends at the Table) but it’s also suitable for folks who enjoy fantasy but know nothing about actual play podcasts. The Last Refuge story unfolds in ways that are unexpected, thoughtful and infused with both suspense and heaps of comedy (including musical theater references). But, what really sets this story apart is how the friendship of everyone at the table shines so brightly through the tale. The players are hilarious, generous with each other and deeply intentional about their choices without ever slowing down the story they are co-creating. DJ Jazzy Hands is an extremely adept DM who brings to life a host of amazing NPCs while all the while keeping the players on their toes. Also, Story Consultant Robert isn’t at the table but his deft touches resonate throughout the adventure. Don’t be surprised if you binge through the 200+ episode adventure quicker than you think possible! (Side note: Thank you, thank you TLR crew, you’ve brought me so much joy in the last 2 years. I look forward to each episode and I truly don’t know what will happen when this adventure wraps up — fingers crossed that this campaign is just the first of many you share with us.)

I came to TLR after Season 2 of Motherlands wrapped up and I needed more Eugenio content. Needless to say, I was not disappointed. This show combines professional-level collaborative storytelling with the casual feeling of longtime friends gathering with the sole purpose of goofing around and having some fun. Mix in some trope busting and critical thinking on tired racist mechanics like fixed alignment, and you have a stellar example of what TTRPGs are made for. Plus, the editing and score choices are top tier. Especially for the musical episode; can we get another one of those?? 🥺👉🏻👈🏻 Happy (almost) 400, y’all. Guess I have to go burn through the Rivals backlog while I WAIT for new episodes here 😤 (P.S: Lydia mentioned at some point a while back that she was the only “non actor” on the crew. I would like to point out that doing this show does in fact make you an actor, so hush. You’re perfect.)

I promised myself I wouldn’t leave a review until I caught up, and here we are. I’ve listened to quite a few DnD podcasts and the amazing DM Jazzy hands should be as recognized as Matt Mercer and Brenden Lee Mulligan, he’s THAT good. The story he weaves with the help of all the amazing players (and guests) will leave you laughing and/or crying and/or flabbergasted at any given point. Everyone works so well together and the positive energy they bring will leave you wanting more, and it’s easy to tell they all care about the story they’re building together. 10/10, would recommend. (Also, hello from a fellow Knoxvillian! Calhoun’s on the river slaps!)

I’ve been listening to this podcast for the last few months while I’m at work and I’m proud to say I’m all caught up. The DM and cast are such lovely people to listen to and I get excited every time I see a new episode is available. Also p.s Sassy Kit is best Kit lol!

I have been binging the Last Refuge for that pst month or two and am well into season 4, so I apologize for going so long without rating and reviewing this excellent series. This show is a gem and surpasses what I could hope for in a TRRPG Actual play. The DM, JazzyHands, has crafted an intricate and living world that balances PC choices and actions, while also moving and evolving on its own. The entire cast are at once charming, hilarious, moving, and inspirational. I’ve listened to a variety of RPG actual play podcasts, but this is one that I am continuously drawn into and lose myself listening to. The cast knows the game but love a healthy dose of improv and rule-of-cool to make for an immensely enjoyable listening experience. Plus the regular musical theater and movie references are a delight. Thank you for all the hard work and love you each have put into this story. Well and truly a fan, and I can’t wait to hear the rest of your story as I continue to catch up on all your wonderful episodes. (Sorry, not sorry for dissertation length review). Happy gaming to you! -Adam the Mandowookiee

I started listening to this podcast roughly at the beginning of November 2020, and I have been listening every single day since. And as of this review, I have fully caught up. And if that doesn’t show how immersive and amazing this cast and story is, I don’t know what will. I absolutely adore the dynamic of this cast and how inclusive the people are. Thank you for giving me a little friend group to be with during these trying times. Love y’all -Everyone’s casual dad

A friend of mine recommended this to me knowing that I had gotten back into D&D in 2020. I started this on Christmas Eve while making food and was hooked immediately. I’ve just caught up and am so excited to find out what happens. Great characters and an amazing story!

I listen on Spotify but since I can’t review on there, I found you guys over here! I am new to the game within last year. I am just starting to DM. I love your world, the way you banter and have been listening regularly since I found you. Thank you for the wonderful world you all create, for the inspiration and making my work day driving between clients for home health care more enjoyable.

These people are telling a compelling, creative, inclusive story that gives the listener all the feels. You must listen to this because everything about this ap podcast is excellent: editing, sound, action, role play, and comraderie. I started listening in September and am almost caught up now. This is a must listen for anyone interested in d&d or those wanting an excellent story with excellent acting. Go subscribe right now! Do it! Why are you still reading this review?!?

I started binging 2 days ago and I’m already caught up. Y’all are one of the funniest, most engaging podcasts out there. This isn’t even just limited to the d&d podcasts out there, but just podcasts in general. Y’all are great, my favorite character is DM Jazzy Hands.

I just started this podcast 2 weeks ago and I’m already on episode 86 and I just help but binge this. I love it how flix constantly keeps raging and Bria keeps wanting advantage with EVERYTHING with frosty hat (Santa’s hat). I find this podcast a great mix of meaningful and funny stuff. Also they just keeepp skipping rooms and I bet it annoys dm jazzy hands a ton. Anyway I really like this show and it’s gives me something to do in these times.

I absolutely adore DM Jazzy Hands and the crew! Can’t believe I just started listening to y’all, but I’m loving every minute

Amazing cast and story. I found them through an advertisement on another podcast and gave them a shot. I was immediately hooked and started bingeing while at work. I’m currently on episode 76 and I can’t get enough. I can’t wait to listen to the rest of the backlog and get caught up to the present. Doctor Sleep

When I’m feeling down or bored, this is the perfect podcast to perk me up! Love listening to it while cooking. Love the cast. I rarely listen to actual play podcasts and I’m listening to this. Just saying.

I started with AP podcasts with Critical Role, but as a Pathfinder/3.5 player I wanted to figure the game out from a slightly lower level/less complex campaign. I'm not sure how I stumbled upon TLR, but for my story-driven ass it was a bit of a rough start, despite the fabulous cast of characters, fascinating world, and delightful inclusivity. But reader, it got SO MUCH better! Magic happened! DM Jazzy Hands mentioned that he had gotten some feedback about paying more attention to the Rule of Cool... and he did! Story leveled up with awesome, an episode made me cry (and was not the last!), and I zoomed through the following 80 episodes in like a month and a half. I've fallen in love with the Last Refuge setting -- I love the use of nonstandard civilizations, the wide cast of supporting characters, and all the mysteries. Maybe the best thing has been listening to the players and DM get comfortable and get into the story they're working together to tell. Now that I can't binge any more I can hardly wait for new episodes! PS I am happy to answer any review-related questions Byz may have.

I love 😍 this podcast it is amazing I would recommend this to everybody who loves D&D I want to add some more (sorry) but I want to mention that I belong in the LGBTQ+ community and you including them makes me so happy and grateful thank you sooooo much ps I was at great river con I was in the second row next to the table

I got an iPhone... correction borrowed one just to leave this review. I have binging this show for the last 6 weeks. (A few episodes from catching up) The chemistry of the crew and dm is legitimately the funniest thing I have heard in ages. If you don’t listen to this.... what are you doing with your life? Nothing? Good you can listen to this. Even if you don’t like dnd or don’t know what it is listen. Think of it as who’s line is it anyway but make it dnd. That is this show. Just do it. You won’t be bored or disappointed promise 😘

Still catching up on the story of this podcast, but absolutely loving it! The dominance of the Rule Of Cool is startlingly evident, and the storyline is beautifully presented. p.s I was at GreatRiver con (I was the gentleman in the top hat.)

Love, love, love this podcast. Love how openly lgbt+ this dnd podcast is. Love the sass, love all the characters, and of course love the dm. So surprised it isn’t more popular.

These folks have been amazing from the beginning. The game is both light hearted, soul wrenching and played out by five of the most amazing people I've had a chance to listen to. It's probably the best actual play podcast out there (and yeah, I know that's saying a lot. DON'T AT ME).

I’m a complete newbie to DnD and I love listening to certain podcasts like this one, especially this one! I can’t really play cause I don’t have buddies to play with but listening to how imaginations just go wild makes me more excited to try and play!

This is easily the best D&D podcast I’ve ever listened to. The velvet-voiced DM Jazzy Hands has crafted a fascinating world and easily guides us through it with a combination of witty NPC banter, vivid descriptions, and regular SAT vocab lessons. The entire cast is very charming, and it’s both hilarious and heartwarming to watch the relationships between players and characters take shape over the course of the show. I got so hooked after the first few episodes, I ended up binging about 80 episodes in a month. If you enjoy Dungeons and Dragons or just great storytelling, you have to add this one-of-a-kind podcast to your rotation.

I started listening to this podcast about 9 months ago because I was warned about DMing Bria. ***I am so glad I was given this warning.*** Not only did I learn a lot about how Bria...plays...but I was sucked into this amazing, living world. Around the end of season 2 is when I realized how attached I had grown to all of these characters. I listen a lot in my car and I have found myself cheering when big moments happen and I have found myself mouth agape when there’s a twist. I’ve attempted to listen to many dnd podcasts but this is the only one that I’ve been able to listen to all the way through. Your story is fantastic and all the players are perfect. Listening has made me a better DM, a better player, and a better story teller. I could continue to gush but I’ll end with I can’t wait to see where the story goes! Anyone needing a good story to listen to should be listening to TLR. Hats off to everyone!!

I’ve only just begun listening to the Last Refuge and just got to the second season but after the first episode I was hooked instantly, the characters are just wonderful and adorable (especially Flik) and DM Jazzy Hands weaves an interesting and compelling narrative that I just can’t stop listening to, my only complaint is that eventually I’ll reach the end of the story. Give the Last Refuge a listen and I promise you will not regret it!

I started listening only a couple of weeks ago and I already finished the first season. I can’t wait to see what will happen next! The story is amazing and the way it is told is just great. The Last Refuge hits the perfect balance between storytelling and game mechanics. I love it!

My fried turned me on to listen to you guys and ever since it’s almost all I’ve been listening to. Y’all just sucked me in really well!

I came across your podcast listening to DragonTalk as I was prepping to be a new DM, listening to you all is inspiring and really makes my day better! I love the personalities of players, characters, and even the Evil DM Overlord! ;). I highly recommend to anyone who wants to know what DnD is all about and wish you all continued success with your show!

I had no experience with D&D before listening to THE LAST REFUGE. This podcast has been a wonderful way for me to learn about D&D as the characters encounter each new obstacle. I have recently completed the first season and appreciate the D&D tutorial episode, the charcter background episodes, and the episode recap episodes. The players have such wonderful banter and I, knowing Alex in real life, love when DM or the other players/characters give Alex/Flik a hard time. Looking forward to starting season 2 and playing D&D myself someday!

I’ve been binging on this for the past two weeks, and am one episode in to the 4th season. Podcasts have come, and gone from my playlist, but this one has embedded itself in my heart. Flik/ Bria are either of you looking to adopt a Tabaxi?:D. Love love love all you do!!! You are the party I wish I was a part of. Well, only one thing left to do.....DM Jazzy Hands explodes!!!......with jubilation from my review of course!!! (Sorry, you had to explode, everyone else has at some point.) :P

Amazing pod cast. Lovable characters. Potted plants. Cute robot things? All the things you need in a good D and the D pod cast. DM jazzy hands does a good job keeping a fair playing field, though it’s often like herding cats. Hopefully this will get read on air? Live? Whatever the correct jargon would be. Love you guys and keep up the great quality pod cast.

I’ve been an avid D&D DM and Player for almost 20 years and I subscribe to more than a few Podcasts. TLR has got me hooked. I’ve been bewitched into throwing Mercer and crew on the back burner and have been binging the Refuge obsessively. Jazzy Hands’ sauciness , Flik’s boyish charm, Kit’s compassion, Byzdera’s aloofness, and Bria’s energetic drive are all things you will become enamored with. The Last Refuge is bold, unique and thrilling. I’ve grown to despise the phase, “...and that is where we are going to leave it for this weak.” TLR is intoxicating. Don’t miss out on this adventure.

Fun intro to D&D! I knew nothing about this game and now I get references! Beyond just my fascination with the game itself, this particular home-brew is well conceived, sweet, funny, scary (that Halloween episode, tho), dramatic, and just all around fun. It is obvious the players and DM truly love the game and are invested in the story they are telling, and it gets me invested. Five thousand gold stars for everyone!

Oh my gosh Hiiiiiiiii!!!!!

I was introduced to the last refuge by Taryn when she was on TPK Games, and I have been hooked. I drove my wife nutz the week I spent binging the show to catch up. Great story with a great group going through this adventure. It’s amazing how well all 4 of you mesh together. Keep up the great content and I can’t wait for the live show!

MAGICAL. THRILLING. WHAT A RIDE! I do not know the first thing about D&D or understand a single thing that’s happening ever but all of that is forgiven when I hear the beautiful voice of DM Jazzy Hands who, if this whole D&D gig doesn’t work out for, easily has a second career in sweet-talking people into revealing their social security numbers with his radio-sexy voice. No, but seriously, this is a great podcast because everyone is clearly having so much fun. Join for adventures and fun and friendship and occasionally Lyanna the cat will interrupt and really what else could you ask for. Kit is the best one. Okay bye

Having just started on season 2, I can confidently say that The Last Refuge is well worth your time (and 5 stars)! The podcast is a patchwork of beautiful storytelling, immersive roleplay, and a healthy sprinkling of humorous banter among players. As each episode ends, I find myself so eager to learn what's next to come for the adventurers! And as a newcomer to D&D, the podcast has been a great way to learn and internalize game mechanics. I just wish the DM wouldn't discourage Flik's puns... TL;DR, The Last Refuge is a compelling and highly enteraining podcast... listening to just one episode will *rope* you in.

look man there are musical episodes what more do you want also they're really good and they sound good and it's great

There are a LOT of D&D podcasts out there, and this is one of the few that kept my attention with its storytelling, production value and group rapport. I've been running my own home-brew campaign for the past few years, and I'm definitely going to be stealing a few cool, new mechanics that this group uses (I love the story-based leveling up). I binged both seasons over the past few weeks, and am thirsty for more!

I knew essentially nothing about D & D before listening to this podcast, but it’s such a joy to listen to this group play. The world-building is so rich and the story takes you along for the ride with lots of surprising twists and turns. I’ve ended up being so invested in these characters!

This is the most listened to podcast in all of Florin. All week, people speculate about what will happen in the next episode. Even Prince Humperdinck follows it.

I recently tuned into this podcast, and I will admit, I do love a good game of the ole Dungeons and Dragons, but I wasn't sure if I'd be as in to the game if I wasn't playing, and boy was I wrong! The DM and characters are engaging and they really make you feel as if you're right there with them. I even catch myself talking back to them as if they can actually hear me! I love all the banter between players and while I don't always get the references they make, I love how much they get a kick out of their jokes, their laughter is infectious. All this and I find out that it's a homebrew?!? Wow, DM Jazzy, you are so imaginative and talented to build all this out of your own noggin. I've been binging like crazy and I can't wait to see where the story goes, keep it up ya'll!