Honestly, it's kinda fun. I understand why the timing and nature of it was upsetting, but, while it's not amazing or breathtaking, you can have a good time playing it

It's been a year since I read it, so I don't remember the context of this, but I think it's probably referring to something from the Wax and Wayne books, probably the Lost Metal, in particular

Be cringe, be free

interesting things happen in the last third or so, so the middle part drags a little, even though it's still fun to read

into these things

Yeah, hard agree. That is the equivalent of taking away player agency, as your choices don't really make a difference, anymore, in terms of how you build your character.
Plus, fights that are harder/easier than expected can lead to interesting narrative moments, too. I always advocate for leaning

That looks so cool!

Love that

Ooh, hell yeah! Proud of you. It's a fun fight, imo

I appreciate the help.
I'll be fine. I don't think I'll have to homebrew that much, and I'm learning, it's just wild to me how needlessly complicated they made it

I don't know, but it's a big mood.
Maybe it's because your body finally gets to unwind?

Oh, neat. We are using Owlbear Rodeo, but only for the battle map aspect

Agreed, but also please don't tempt me to eventually get a Switch 2

I'd be generally down for it, but I think my group still prefers DnD Beyond.
Plus, the encounter tracker is kinda convenient. But who knows, maybe I'll be annoyed enough, eventually, that I'll push for us to leave