Worlds Beyond Number

1,772

Brennan Lee Mulligan, Erika Ishii, Aabria Iyengar, and Lou Wilson hang out together and use games to make stories. It's pretty good.

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Recent Reviews
  • Iceman8942
    Love it all except.
    Everything you guys are doing is great but trying to listen while walking or somewhere with a small amount of noise seems impossible. I love listening to the podcast while at work but even with the audio all the way up i struggle to catch what’s being said. Other then that the sound design, the story narrative, the character RP is all top tier.
  • thecanvas
    Immersive, masterful storytelling
    This is one of my favorite podcasts to listen to while painting. It just makes the experience so much more cozy. It’s got everything I want— believable world building, lovable characters, and a few jokes from the players scattered throughout.
  • antipodes
    I am in love.
    I legit had goosebumps twice in one episode. Not like “ooh, cool imagery” vibes but actual standing stock still in the middle of my kitchen with a dishrag just sobbing and hiccuping because the story was beautiful. I admire Brennan and Aabria and Erika and Lou and I’ve followed them in all kinds of stories elsewhere but this feels like the kind of fantasy stories that make my inner child happy and comfort my adult me in a difficult year (decade?). Cannot speak highly enough of this production for so many reasons. These people have my heart in their hands and I feel safe there. God bless.
  • clementine0666
    tysm
    much like the stranger, this series absolutely shifted my perception of time, making my 400 mile drive to and from thanksgiving fly. i’m on ep 10 and i’ve cried and laughed out loud countless times. i can’t wait to learn and grow along side ame, suvi, and eursulon ❤️
  • Dhink241
    First of all, how dare you?!
    Brennan Lee Mulligan, and of course the whole cast, you have made me cry at work AGAIN by episode 24! Irresponsible! This is a beautiful world fully realized, and the player-characters have unbelievable chemistry together. The best DnD podcast I’ve heard, and it makes me rue the day I agreed to DM! (In the best way)
  • adventure zone fannnn!!!!!!
    DANG THIS GOOD
    I have listened to many dnd podcasts. And among the best are The adventure zone, Critical role (sometimes), and THIS. I LOVE IT WHEN A PODCAST BALANCES STORY AND GAME. Brennan does an amazing job I strive to at least come close to his dm level with my own group and the players make ALL the right choices that perfectly fit their characters. I haven’t been this invested since the end of the balance arc from the adventure zone. If your looking for a dnd podcast, THIS IS IT.
  • Vendor Xeno
    How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Actual Play
    I’m not much of an actual play guy. I love ttrpgs, I’ve been playing with a group continuously for over two decades now, and have regular side games. But I do kinda ascribe to the notion that trying to enthuse to those outside your group about your latest adventure typically goes over as well as describing your dreams to your coworkers. So when I started this and realized what it was, I almost stopped right there. But then I noticed a name, Brennan Lee Mulligan. Now I’m not trying to build his legend or anything, (not that he’s not deserving but I ascribe to the Brennan Cannot Win school of thought,) in fact the reason I knew the name at all was because of the animations of a YouTuber DeepBlueInk. So I listened and it is brilliant. Everyone involved is majestic, the three characters are so well played, invested and heart felt it’s staggering, the world is fascinating and compelling, this story runs partly on improv and partly the literal roll of the dice and yet the story is better than most fully scripted podcasts I listen to. I absolutely love this podcast, I love everyone involved (kinda crushing on Lou Wilson’s voice,) but I do just want to reiterate, if it weren’t for deepblueink odds are I’d never have discovered this masterpiece at all! He’s good press!
  • Dongzo
    Love it, but…
    … The players ought to know that the audience doesn’t need to hear every compulsive vocalic uttered directly into the mic. Aabria and Erica are both guilty of excessive gasps, squeals, coos, sighs, squeaks, mh-mhms, and every other non-linguistic vocalization you can imagine. It’s one thing to be excited or emotional to heighten the drama, but the frequency and volume of their “effusiveness” just becomes distracting and disingenuous at a certain point. I tried to get my wife into the podcast by listening to the first episode with her and her only response was “why does that woman sound like she’s having an orgasm in the background?”… fair question.
  • LC5026
    Immaculate storytelling
    This storytelling is electric. The depth of characters, plot and character development, sound design, production choices, unreal cast chemistry, it’s all perfect. I’m a fan of these creators and performers in their other projects, but what they do in WBN is transcendent. It’s rapidly becoming better than any fantasy series I’ve read and more immersive than any film or tv show. I am so grateful for this literal work of art.
  • jestergast
    Immeasurably immersive and fantastic
    What do you mean I caught up? Brennan why aren’t there more episode? What am I supposed to do now?!?
  • Wordbuffer
    Volume please
    Audio peeps, take off your professional headphones, pop in a pair of ear pods, and take a ride on the subway or work in the garden. Can YOU hear the dialogue? I can’t. Volume controls all go down to silent, but they don’t go up to “audible” if the podcast is too low.
  • Snarf it
    Wonderful
    A cast of heavy hitters with beautiful and immersive sound design. I got hooked from the first episode.
  • Boblobblaw47744
    The gang’s best work.
    I’m an avid fan of dimension 20, and many projects that these four have performed. This story that they are all weaving together, feels like the most masterful work that I’ve ever experienced. The other reviews speak for themselves with the impact of this work. Brennan, Abria, Erika, and Lou’s story telling abilities are unmatched. I would argue that the story the tell transcends beyond its medium. It will be better than most books, most films, most human experiences that they will partake. I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited for an episode of a podcast. I’m blown away at how this show, this story, can unilaterally appeal to everyone, yet be so intimate that you would think it was written for 10 people. All four of these members are savants at story telling. Lou’s ability to tell “less with more” is unmatched. Abria character conflicts and aligns in a dance with the D&D party that feels raw and real. Erika home brew class brings a lense that is welcome and fresh, witches that are full being with complex goals and aims. Brennan is the DM that all of us strive to be. The color, the vibrance, the grains of detail, the layers of puzzles, both literal and social, they are all built of the literal decades of his experience. He eloquently teases apart every character, every detail so that they all are strong enough to stand on their own. From Morrow to the Fox, from Dalmai to citadel guards, they are feel three dimensional. What a feast this is to publicly enjoy between these four friends and colleague. Listening to this has been a treat of a lifetime. When they decide to conclude this work, I will grieve it.
  • MrSmith182
    Top Tier Mulligan!
    No offense to all of the other absolutely great works of Brennan, Aabria, Erica, and Lou, but The Wizard the Witch and the Wild One is sincerely a masterpiece and my favorite story they have ever told. I’ve laughed. I’ve cried (truly bawled). I’ve been scared and delighted. I wait with baited breath for every installment. This is more than just a fantastic live play D&D experience. If you haven’t already started listening to this glorious work I’d fiction, do yourself a favor and start now! 10/10 will be coming back for many many more episodes.
  • DarkCrystal34
    One of the top 3 actual plays I've ever heard
    Worlds Beyond Number truly took me by surprise, and is flat out one of the best TTRPG show I've ever heard (I've probably listened to 40+ so that's saying something!). Brendan has a true gift for storytelling as GM, the players have incredible chemistry, imagination, heart and really know how to tug at your emotions, while still also retaining a great sense of humor. The kids arc was beautiful and really grounds the characters as we get to know them as young adults. This whole show is a DELIGHT and the highlight of my every two weeks. I'm also truly impressed at their attention to inclusion and belonging in bringing alive very real world themes of oppression, class, race and gender, and weaving them into a fantasy story that makes wonderful social points in a tasteful way, never cramming it down your throat.
  • liseesmess
    A lifesaver
    I was going through a layoff and the death of a close family member when I first listened to this podcast. I’d tried listening to other TTRPG style podcasts in the past but had trouble feeling connected. This podcast changed my mind. The superb writing, vocal talent, story pacing, and audio production is second to none. This podcast was a sliver of joy in a dark time and I will forever be grateful to all those involved in making it happen.
  • JuraTheDog
    It’s 3am in a nursery in west Atlanta…
    Something happens in your brain after months of sleep deprivation- the lenses of reality shift and rotate and the world comes in and out of focus. But instead of dreading the early morning wakings of my colicky newborn, I look forward to listening to more of this story. We snuggle up in a dark room and listen together, and it might be the only thing keeping me sane right now! Ps. Absolutely tickled pink to learn about Brennan and Izzy’s baby. Congrats, and thanks for helping out a fellow new parent!
  • forrrestfae
    stuns me every second
    best work in the genre. hands down.
  • Cassblast
    Mulligan Unchained
    Worlds Beyond Number feels like a true passion project. Four talented story tellers, actors, and friends who’ve been freed to do the thing they way they want to. It’s so compelling and well-edited, and I love their use of sound and music. Truly fantastic!
  • n812345789
    It’s cozy and it’s grim.
    The setting is as still and as dynamic as the cosmos. At times as still and ever present as a constellation, and then as dynamic as solar flares, quasar or supernovas. The cast bring full hearted characters to life against motivated and determined forces.
  • amberrillo
    Thank you!
    This podcast, this game, these creators. I am in awe of how much I love it all. I am gonna skip the begging for a new installment because I cherish the hard work you put into this story. It is incredibly immersive and thrilling. This podcast has been exactly what I needed to get me through some hard times recently; an escape from my problems. I am a huge fan of all of you: some of the greatest people to ever touch the game! Brennan, you rock; no seriously I would pay you to let me play a game you DM. Aabria, you create and play characters that are incredibly human and real, it is truly inspiring. Lou I cannot confess my love to you like this (lol) but I have made it my mission to watch/listen to every game you are a part of. Your humor and creativity is so engaging and fun. Erika, you put your heart into your game play, making your characters shine with prices of your character. Ame is beautiful and lovely and so are you. I cannot say thank you enough. This is seriously the best D&D podcast I have listened to. I cannot get enough of it and it has eased my pain and anxiety as I have been going through some of the worst mental health issues I’ve ever had. Thank you!
  • Nlashby7
    So good, I just want more
    I absolutely love this series. I’ve seen a review or 2 about Aabría’s character being abrasive, but I honestly think she’s the best part of the campaign (not like Lou or Erika aren’t absolute bangers too). Brennan is on top of his game as usual. Literally my only issue with this campaign is that they don’t release as often as I want, but that’s probably why it’s so good. They give it production time, and they give the characters time outside of a recording studio (I hope, because baby Brennan has arrived and we gotta make sure they’re getting time with the fam).
  • Elias Anglin
    All good with one bad apple
    Brennan delivers, excellent scene setting, works off his players initiatives, great npc delivery. production is great. The players are invested in the story, feels immersive. Except that Abria is always putting down everyone else. She’s one note and it’s a boring, sour, abrasive note. I can’t imagine the rest of the party actually continuing to travel with her, the players have to because they want to keep playing the game.
  • SnartyBoi
    Wonderful.
    I was unsure about an actual play without video, but ever since I started listening, I can’t stop. I love everyone involved in this project, and their story telling skills are incredible. I followed all of them for years through various projects, and this is an amazing amalgamation of all of their talents.
  • JernJoh
    WBN: Exceptional
    I’m normally not a big fan of actual plays, but this beautiful passion project transcends the meaning of actual play. Lou, Aabria, Brennan, Taylor, and Erika are all creative masterminds, and they pool their talents together into this show, which I can only describe as the most brilliant and bingeable podcast out there. This podcast singlehandedly renewed my faith in the power of improv as an art form, and the versatility of DnD as a game system.
  • Trintonofthesea
    World’s Beyond Belief
    This show is truly one of the most beautiful pieces of art that has ever been created - every arc, every episode, adds layers upon layers to the world they are creating with mystery, growth, tension, laughs, and wild creativity. I cannot stress enough how much I recommend this show to anyone who is even mildly interested in fantasy.
  • Coolpapa2282
    Wow. Just wow.
    The cinematic quality of this show is unlike any other Actual Play. Compeling and dramatic from minute one. Truly incredible!
  • Jenneryy
    Love actual plays and this cast is incredible!
    I couldn’t miss the chance to hear this cast play together and I love every minute of it. Their talent is undeniable and it’s so good! Can’t wait to be along for the ride for years to come!
  • BrittanyBee1360
    How do they do it?
    Time and time again I am in awe of the improvised comedy and story telling these folks and their friends pull off. What a lovely treat for us to come and visit their fun narratives and enjoy the love they clearly have for one another.
  • AinaSul
    Ah who who
    I listen to a lot of actual plays and this is hands-down the best.
  • Joshua P Smith
    I hate this show…
    For making me have to wait so long for new episodes!!! It’s the best story I’ve experienced in a long time and I am hooked!!! Well done WWW
  • colin awesome
    Best you can get
    I just love these guys, they’re all wonderful people who I’d love to sit and have coffee with and I’d trust them to watch my cat. 10/10, ahoo hoo crackle crackle
  • NerdyBatman
    Amazing
    One of the best TTRPG stories being told. Incredible cast chemistry, love for the world and the story telling lead this to be an incredible journey. Start with the children's adventure on Patreon which leads into this and just gives you a full life view of each of these special characters. Brennan helps spin magic along with the cast and Taylor's production and sound design elevates this to a top tier experience. Just listen already.
  • Lalishasaurus
    Ulterior Motive
    I’m self aware enough to admit my crush on Aabria brought me here but the love of the story is why I stayed.
  • Gossip Pomeranian
    An epic new fantasy novel for your ears
    I haven’t loved a story this much in a long time. The world and characters are so vibrant and lush, I frequently think about it in the days between episodes. It reminds me so much of my favorite fantasy novels—The Sorceress and the Cygnet, Riddle Master of Hed, A Wizard of Earthsea, & Sabriel. With the roleplay so rich, it feels more like a novel than an actual play podcast, but then the game mechanics are used to level up the storytelling in the best ways. I hope this story continues for a long time to come. Thank you Brennan, Aabria, Erika, Lou, and of course, Taylor. Each of your gifts are astounding, and so many of our inner (and outer) worlds are better for it.
  • Ktpie86
    Mind Blowing
    This is one of the best stories that I have EVER HEARD. My mind has been blown several times throughout the season and I eagerly look forward to every episode drop!
  • Kamraetay
    Essential part of every morning ❤️
    These voices telling this story are as crucial to every day of my life as a cup of coffee and breakfast. I have no idea how I’d be getting through one of the worst years of my life without the peace and sense of wonder I get from each episode. Thank you for putting color back in my world I love y’all so much.
  • Rabbit8990
    An amazing and authentic story
    I have loved dnd for a long time and the story told by these four summons forth the full breath of human emotion while creating a universe that is so easy to slip into that its almost as though we were all born there. The method of story telling has us riding the rollercoaster right along side ursalon amey and sky never quite knowing what will happen next in what is the most captivating story telling in my memmory.
  • B_O-B
    Phenomenal Storytelling
    I love everything this bunch does but this is such a loveable and engaging story with the talent and phenomenal world building you would expect from these ppl. I recommend it to everyone looking for a new podcast bc it’s so easy to start and get hooked into.
  • jj7e628238
    10/10 Storytelling
    Episode 15 made me cry
  • Tonytorrico
    Wow
    Maybe the best collaborative storytelling I’ve ever seen. The story is so incredible and immersive that it will drag you out of reality and put you right in the moment. Please never stop the show. It’s perfect.
  • The Trautmans
    I want to love it but I can’t
    I waited a long time to review this to see if I would get used to it as I love Aabria, Lou, and Brennan and I love the story that the four of these folks are telling. That being said I find the podcast incredibly difficult to listen to as I just think it is over sound mixed with too much happening and too many unnecessary and unnecessarily loud sound effects thrown in at random. It repeatedly takes me out of the story and it routinely takes me far longer to listen to episodes because of it. In some episodes I've even given up and read the transcripts to get the plot to go on to future episodes.
  • Momo Gogo
    Can we talk about the sound design tho?
    Not enough that Brennan is one of the most inventive and compelling DMs and storytellers. Not enough that the players, Aabria, Erika, and Lou, are so adept at reacting as and understanding the strengths and flaws of their characters that they can collectively develop powerful growth arcs and hammer these huge emotional beats. Not enough that the world is so vivid, nope, it’s not enough. They ALSO had to come thru with incredibly immersive sound design? How do y’all go SO hard???
  • Elegant Epic
    Easily the best actual play
    Worlds beyond number is easily my favorite actual play podcast. Its role play heavy, amazingly produced, masterful DMing from Brennan, well crafted characters and pc development from Abria, Lou, and Erika. I’ve laughed out loud, ugly cried, and have thrown my arms up in celebration. 11/10.
  • C. Quillz
    DnD podcasts are art now?
    Truly a remarkable thing. Perhaps the most successful piece of collaborative story-telling ever made. Stunning work from all involved. Every episode exaggerates my superlatives. The quality of the editing and sound design isn’t just a high-quality production thing. It elevates this to the level of the very best of radio drama and above every other podcast in its field. To marry this level of care to an ostensibly improvised story has never been done before. This is a special new achievement in the cosmos of creative expression.
  • BreeManteau
    New Favorite
    I listen to several narrative podcasts and while they all have their own charms, this one has risen to the top for me. The level of care they take with storytelling and character development makes me feel completely immersed. The sound design is so good, I have to listen to this with my noise canceling headphones. I also joined their Patreon, and I highly recommend it - the “Children’s Story” might be a long form character creation session, but the way they establish and delve into the PCs and NPCs (namely Grandma Wren) motivations and personalities makes the main campaign hit so much harder. Their “Fireside Chats” behind each episode are also a pleasure. 7 out of 7!
  • Thorq
    Beautiful
    Just lost my wife’s mother two weeks back, I can’t even with how good and how real this show is. Keep it going forever.
  • mosscoveredandkind
    The Show That Keeps Me Going
    The creation of this world, and the experience to ride along has been absolutely amazing. I really am thankful that they chose to share this with us! The fox is my guy!!!!
  • LuChiChi4433
    The gods and goddesses of story telling.
    Exceptional! These four tell such a riveting story packed with emotion and adventure. Mixed with the amazing sound effects of Taylor, it is perfect to listen to at work( if you’re a massage therapist like me and have a job that doesn’t require intense focus). Well done!
  • Archmage2007
    A narrative worth the world
    I found it when searching for a dnd podcast to listen to as I was wanting to take a break from CR and I immediately fell in love with the world and story of this show, the characters. 100/10, will rant about on command
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