Dungeon Crawler Carl: Spoiler-free & Spoiler Review | 2 To Ramble

[@John-lo2wn]

Cool fun fact: Matt’s patreon members actually vote on Carls fan boxes. So the fan boxes he gets in the books are literally chosen by fans of the series.

[@2ToRamble]

Thats so freaking cool

[@GelidPrince]

The audio book when Donut types in all caps. "THAT IS BECAUSE I AM YELLING CARL" cracks me up.

[@awsomeman350]

MONGO IS APPALLED

[@alisonmcauliffe9812]

Not to be recommended to your Mum?!! Grandma here…..huge fan of DCC! I’m loving the audio book!

[@2ToRamble]

Awesome!!

[@brandontaylor3252]

These audiobooks took over my life for 3 months straight. I think I listened to the series 3 times before I could go on to something else. One thing this series does well that a lot of fantasy frustrates me with is inter-character drama. One of the most common irritations I have with fantasy books is character drama taking too long and overwhelming the plot and/or action. Jordan, Sanderson, and many of my other favorite authors really love to stretch the drama over entire books or more but Dinniman does quite the opposite and often has the characters talk it out in a grown up way and then move on with the insanity of the dungeon. A perfect example you brought up is Donut treating Carl like a servant. That could have taken the entire book to resolve but instead they barely make it out of the safe room before Carl has enough and calls her out for it. The resolution is honest and touching and doesnt suffer at all for happening so quickly and then moving on. It's a pattern that repeats throughout the series and I think its a big part of why these books feel light hearted while dealing with a truly horrific setting and really keeps the tempo of the story up.

[@TheMadSavery]

This is a thought I have been trying to get out multiple times in multiple forums. This right here is exactly why I appreciate this series sooooooo much.

[@feleshaficca197]

I absolutely love DCC. The audible for DCC is the best that I have ever listened to. Jeff Hays brings Carls character to life it’s so crazy how good he is. I can’t wait for book 7.

[@jonathandixon7760]

Can’t wait to see you get through the whole series. Everything, especially character development, just ramps up higher and higher as you go. It’s phenomenal

[@markmiles2728]

I can't believe that I care so much about a guy in boxers, a cat and their pet velociraptor. But, I do. I'm ALL in!

[@2ToRamble]

Glurp glurp!

[@Sam-hp8cp]

I am on book 5 and my partner on book 4. We are OBSESSED. Such a great, fun series. It handles tone shifting really well. I am constantly amazed by how they handle the "will they, won't they" but with Carl and Donuts friendship. It's excellent. I love it.

[@sampson623]

Bought the audiobook because of the first 4 minutes of this episode! LOVING it so far. The first book I’ve actually laughed out loud at (not just blowing air out of nose)

[@pulver67]

Woke up my partner 2 rooms away cackling when Carl’s “catch phrase” is revealed…that scene *must* be heard on audiobook

[@sampson623]

@@pulver67Literally JUST finished the audiobook. It was indeed hilarious.

[@jlo-1261]

Im not usually am audiobook fan, but its definitely the best way to enjoy this series. Jeff Hayes with the Soundbooth theater addition is the best audiobook expwrience I've had.

[@dpowemsj]

Finished this series in a month. Shouldn’t be as good as it is, but Dinniman f’ing kills it. So good. So fun. But legitimately filled with heart. Can’t wait to see how you review the rest of the series

[@pulver67]

“Shouldn’t be as good as it is”. Nailed it.

[@xiibu]

I love that you guys think there's no social commentary and that DCC is all fun and games 👀👀👀 Let me tell ya, the complexities only get better from here on in!

[@saucebot7214]

Also, you must, must, must try the audiobooks

[@geonapbin]

Definitely true what they said that the audiobook is mandatory! The narrator, Jeff Hays, is amazing. My jaw hit the floor when I learned after listening to book 1 that he does ALL the voices. Stunned!

[@2ToRamble]

Jeff Hayes is top tier!

[@janette2087]

I think people who aren’t “audiobook people” should definitely read them first. Then watch some of Jeff Hays’ live reads. The audio adds so much to the characters. If after hearing some of the audio, if you’re not hooked then, well enjoy it how you want. Amazing either way!

[@BenPilaczynski]

Been looking for a good book review podcast. I’m not a fast reader and understand I’m not gonna be able to read everything and this was perfect for me to get a good idea what the book is about and understand it more. Love this.

[@2ToRamble]

Thanks so much! Happy reading

[@thomasciuffreda8783]

Read this about half a year ago. The LiTRPG genre hasn't clicked with me, whenever I've tried it, but this book is the big exception. Loved this book, the worldbuilding, Carl and Donut have a great dynamic and the humour clicked with me too. I bought all the books in the series on word of mouth alone; so glad I don't have buyer's remorse lol.

[@speedy01247]

The audiobook is way better cause the narrator is amazing.

[@Jonnybear84]

I loved this one, tried it on a whim on audible and I have to agree that the audio version is a must, and the bond that forms between donut and Carl is simultaneously adorable and hilarious 😅. Its also very clear to me as an ex wow player that the author has experience with some sort of mmo game a la wow or ffviv etc as there are so many Easter eggs and nods sprinkled throughout. Had a smile on my face from start to finish, would (and have) recommend 😊

[@Jo-Heike]

You're making me want to listen to the series again, even before the next book comes out.

[@dpowemsj]

My former enemy turned friend turned enemy turned nemesis Moash can testify to fantasy names affecting real life friendship

[@patrickwallen5065]

Moash is just misunderstood...😊

[@philipthesen8458]

Blazing through book 1 after this episode. Haven't had the binge itch this strong since discovering the Bobiverse series!

[@Ed-hv7ds]

Really curious to hear you're guys' take post book 5. I've read everything from The Belgariad to the Recluse Series to all 20whatever books of Malazan (which I absolutely consider to be the peak of grand fantasy) and DCC is somehow right up there with the best stuff I've ever read or listened to. It's amazing that a series with such a stupid cover and name could hit so hard. Book 5 alone may be one of the best books I've read... like ever.

[@2ToRamble]

Damn!! Cant wait to get there

[@nordamoddev1038]

TV Recommendation - Blood Drive. For fans of Dungeon Crawler Carl, it's a 'Murder Game Show' set up & while being quite different, the comedy and meta humour hit in a very similar way.

[@revel911]

The world world outside of the dungeon is anything BUT slapstick

[@Arden-bh7bl]

When I first saw the thumbnail with just Richard I was like, “looks like Rich finally got fed up and made a video by himself”

[@2ToRamble]

😂

[@sydneyalisonbaker]

Book 5 has been my favorite so far! It is amazing! Donut singing, and Carl’s reaction to it, broke my heart!

[@speedy01247]

Did you listen to the audiobook or read it?

[@sydneyalisonbaker]

@@speedy01247 I’ve been listening to the audiobooks for this series. The narrator is amazing!

[@EmberJune]

I wish you played the achievement he gets after killing the boss in the room with the bomb that you talked about early on. That had me dying and is honestly what set off the marathon of going through all of the audiobooks straight. No other books existed until I finished all of the DCC books.

[@kellycorbit7260]

I wasn't sure I would like Lit RPG, but everyone has been talking about this book, so I started it last week... Love it! First 2 books on audio down and I don't want it to end. This had me dying of laughter

[@saucebot7214]

It took me so long to convince myself to try DCC. Its an amazing series

[@UltraLaidback]

Ah, finally you guys have touched on a book from my favorite genre. The genre is Progression Fantasy with a sub-genre of LitPRG. I would love to see you guys cover some of the giants of the genre like the Cradle series by will wight which starts with unsouled (about 238 pages)

[@bennersftw2644]

Firstly, I’m always looking at backgrounds for Brent Weeks. I never see The Black Prism - so nice to see it here!!! Bravo 🙌🏼 Just got to chapter 26 today in DCC - a very exciting experience!!

[@michaelcain9324]

On the back flap of book 3 he has a one ⭐️ star rating: “Violent and depraved.”

[@cdh111868]

Just wait till later books. Your characters category will easily be a 5 star and so will emotional impact. The future books have a huge cast and get really deep/sad in moments

[@FrostFireTiger]

I'm halfway through the sixth book right now and feel that the books are getting better with each one. I had some gripes with book 1. I mostly felt that the satire was a bit too heavy-handed and that it ended just before the "thing" it was building up for. But both things cease to be issues in all of the other books. Satire is still quite present, but it doesn't feel so overt anymore. It's more natural. Likewise each book became more self-contained with less incompleteness. Even though cliffhangers do still occur.

[@2ToRamble]

Excited to continue!

[@shughes5778]

The opening of this episode was actually exactly what I did. I read the first book physically, then read the rest on Kindle Unlimited. I'm reading Bedlam Bride right now.

[@gabrielgoen382]

I havent quite finished the video, but I couldnt help but make connections between Darrow and Carl. Its not a perfect mirror at all, but their situation, their genius when it comes to planning, and ability to bend but never break. I just got same vibe from Carl that I got from Darrow, at least in the first 3 red rising books, as Darrow is kind of a different character in the next few books. Loved the book though. And am so excited for you to continue your DCC journey!

[@fahdahsulaiman]

I listened to the audiobook for DCC and the production was amazing. Unfortunately it just wasn't my cup of tea, but I definitely enjoyed Princess Donut and the humor. I totally understand how people are obsessed with this series.

[@bradycoe6404]

im with you richard. reading dungeon crawler carl has killed my TBR

[@combatcorncob6334]

Literally paused on reading the second mistborn book because of these books and probably won't go back till I finish the series

[@ishamael104]

"Hey kid, you're balls deep in the wrong hole and mom just pulled into the driveway"

[@ericmason8087]

You guys are awesome and always enjoy your podcasts!

[@2ToRamble]

Thanks so much!

[@HMadalin]

The guy who gave Red Rising a 10 says that DCC's prose is lackluster 😒

[@IzzyZil20]

Sometimes his opinions are just wrong

[@Unouna10]

Humans are complicated beings

[@rukky.sshonubi4797]

No matter what It's his opinion. Cmon

[@IzzyZil20]

@@rukky.sshonubi4797 yeah and I’m allowed to disagree with them since it’s a public forum

[@nexuszen769]

DCC's prose is basically perfect for the character and genre. Don't know what else anyone would be looking for.

[@eclipse5342]

Great popcorn books with emotional punch.

[@curtis25920]

I have a friend named Salty who I know will LOVE this book

[@BaddAtom]

this is very emotional, Carl is not a killer, he doesn't want this, he wants to break them all (the creators)

[@Mightyjordy]

I thought book 1 was pretty good, but they just keep getting better and better. Book 5 ended up being my favorite book of the year last year

[@2ToRamble]

Getting us even more excited

[@pulver67]

I’ve been running around for days annoying my kids yelling “Goddamnit, Donut!” And was hoping you would mention the Audiobook. It elevates the material to a completely new level. Found myself pausing just reading at points until I could get back to immersive. I know spoiler but the scene, 2 simple paragraphs of making the resistance shake. It’s all I need to share to get my reading pals on board. Puzzling out each fight is fantastic and seeing the ingenuity is satisfying as hell Pure unadulterated (well adulterated) fun.

[@John-lo2wn]

Can we please get an update to these categories once y’all are caught up. Cause I out “thought provoking” at like a 4.

[@2ToRamble]

Our future ratings definitely gave the thought-provoking rated - may have to think back to this one as well

[@John-lo2wn]

@@2ToRamble just saw y’all had a video on book 2. Watching it now. This is a series I’m super passionate about (and am partially responsible for badgering Daniel Greene into reading it along with many others). Glad you guys are loving it and especially the audiobooks. Looks like book 7 is schedule for October!

[@2ToRamble]

@@John-lo2wn Hell yea

[@Mightyjordy]

47:25 I think that was book 2 lol

[@J_A_M_]

Truly a singular series

[@yaxure]

Been waiting for this!

[@michaelcain9324]

Yes, the AUDIO BOOKS!!!

[@benceling5393]

the talk show hosts name is audette for further reference

[@jiecut]

Odette in the book

[@justicarl]

I want to see how your ratings change after reading more books! Can we get a rating progression chart as you go through the series?

[@2ToRamble]

We can update them!!

[@KaoticKaden]

If you enjoy powersystems/magic systems cradle the series is perfect the Goat of powersystems

[@2ToRamble]

Weve heard such great things

[@nicholassels7411]

Remember that the narrator is Carl, he's not a complicated guy. Of course his prose are lackluster, he's a dock worker, not a poet!

[@nckhy94]

You need to focus on Between Two Fires! It's one of my favorite books. The tropes aren't original by any means, but theyre so well executed and the story is perfect.

[@AtomicHercules]

Soundbooth Theater does the Everybody Loves Large Chests series and it’s equally fun.

[@2ToRamble]

How many books are in that series?

[@AtomicHercules]

@ I think 10 so far

[@BookishGecko]

Oh the name thing definitely, I’m going super out of my way to avoid guys called Loren and any Eriks are on thin ice 😂😂 It sucks that I’m in a completely different country so the affiliate links probably won’t work for me but I already pay you money every month anyway 😂 I haven’t read these yet so I’m gonna stop before spoilers (of course) and get back to Morning Star but I definitely want to get in to DCC soonish

[@2ToRamble]

😂 thanks gecko, let us know what you think of Morning Star!

[@Amanda_D]

Genuinely curious: what is your theme song? Is that an existing tune that has a name or did you guys make it up?

[@2ToRamble]

It’s a song from the Lord of the Rings films - by Howard Shore! Just a snippet of the entire song

[@michaelcain9324]

Dungeon Crawler Carl was my LitRPG gateway drug. 😂

[@2ToRamble]

It may be ours too 😭

[@Smileysmiley012]

I think I’m convinced to read!🤓

[@2ToRamble]

😁 hope you reallly enjoy it

[@pulver67]

Truly the audiobook is a must. It elevates the material. If you’ve ever played an MMO RPG so much will hit home but it isn’t necessary. A pure joy to read

[@The-Sibling]

Are you going to Dragonsteel? Matt Dinniman's going to be there.

[@2ToRamble]

Hell yea we are, cant wait

[@kevnas8250]

Too many good books to read, but this is coming after finishing Golden Son for sure. Just from the pitch, this gives me Solo Leveling Vibes and who doesnt love that piece of art.

[@hristokaishev4665]

I just finished book 4 of DCC and to be honest i am ending it there. The first one was great cause it was something "newish" but book after book is kinda the same thing.

[@Ed-hv7ds]

I heartily recommend you listen to book 5. It's considered by most people to be the best book in the series and really brings the series up out of the Dungeon - or I guess a better way to put it would be it brings the outside world in. Though in the interest of transparency, I think your take is completely bonkers and doesn't compute for me to begin with :D But hey, books are subjective and your take is just as valid as mine. Happy reading!

[@carsonhenderson]

you guys changed your rating scale to 5 ?

[@2ToRamble]

We did change to stars, yes!

[@josephwilson-doan4163]

I dunno how drug dealing Llama’s are high-class, Five Guys fare. It’s a bit more south-side White Castle at 1 am vibes. 😂

[@2ToRamble]

😂

[@haydongonzalez-dyer2727]

Great

[@Riverwand1]

I don't disagree at all with your prose scores for this book, but the juxtaposition of giving this a prose score of 3.25/5 and then giving Red Rising a 9.6/10 is just...Mongo is appalled.

[@2ToRamble]

I am a sucker for RR

[@RangerErnsy]

NEW ACHIEVEMENT: OBSESSED. You've watched every available KZbin review about Dungeon Crawler Carl. Don't you have a job? REWARD: Unbreakable Jar of Enchanted Grass. Because you are never going to go outside to touch any, so now you can bring with you everywhere you go. Congrats.

[@2ToRamble]

😂

[@hitzkooler15]

DCC was my firt LitRPG. Unfortunately I have to say that this book is a giant exception in this genre, anything I have come across afterwards was a huge pile of garbage

[@thalleous7636]

My name is Carl but with a K

[@2ToRamble]

Close enough!

[@davidkahnt2632]

Glurp, glurp!

[@stevenstewart782]

My dads name is Carl😄

[@2ToRamble]

Neat!

[@abequiner9815]

I couldn't finish it. I've listened to a lot of litrpg. There are a few good ones, but most are not. DCC is one of the worst. The entire basis for the plot is stupid and the narrator didn't help.

[@stevenstewart782]

Five guys is not impressive for the price. Give me McDonald's😄😄

[@titantv4567]

As good as this book is, delaying Sun Eater is unacceptable.

[@tgibridays]

Yeah. Booo Coop.

[@Mightyjordy]

I disagree. Sun eater I think works better spread out

[@nordamoddev1038]

​@@Mightyjordytotally agree here, I actually found DCC trying to find something to pace out my suneaters with 😂 but now I need to find something to pace out DCC with 😅

[@joegriggs7809]

First

[@pillarmusic1641]

I bought dungeon crawler Carl after listening to this podcast last week and all I can say is that wow, this story is terrible. The name of the wind is amazing. Dungeon Crawler Carl reads like someone relaying the highlights of their video game career connected with the most cliched story beats. Half of this story feels like it’s ripping off Ratchet: Gladiator which is far superior. Almost makes me feel as though the book tube community has been paid to promote this nonsense. The Name of The Wind is a story of actual substance.