The State of Games, Ep. 116: The One About Exceptions that Make the Rule
If we’ve learned one thing over the years, it’s that not all games are for all people. We all have individual tastes in types of games that we like, and often times will steer clear of other games of those same types down the road. This podcast is all about those little gems that have surprised us over the years, made us rethink why we never liked these types of games in the first place, and that we’re eager to share now with all of you dear listeners. Read... Read More
The State of Games, Ep. 115: The One About The Hotness
If there’s one thing most of us gamers get all excited about, it’s the new shiny in cardboard. Board games are growing in leaps and bounds, and each month sees an exponential increase in board game releases. Some titles somehow tap into the zeitgeist and hurtle skyward with tons of hype, while other, equally-worthy, titles inexplicably tumble down into obscurity. We’re here to talk about this very thing, and how BGG’s The Hotness can make or break a game,... Read More
The State of Games, Ep. 113: The One About All the Questions
I travelled to Delaware to test out several things with Darrell, and TC joined. Although Darrell chose poorly in his pre-podcast dinner (seafood), TC was able to join us for some significant talk about such adventures! Also, thankfully, Jessica joined us to talk about some games that she had been deeply involved with in the meantime, so you’ll have a great time listening! And, hopfully commenting. Read More Read More
The State of Games, Ep. 112 – The One About Gen Con 2016
The summer is drawing to a close and, with it, so is the season for big conventions. None are bigger each year than Gen Con, and this year was the biggest yet, scattering all four of us from the podcast to the four winds only to see each other sporadically. But, with the distance comes opportunity, as we all get to share very different experiences for all of you to enjoy, dear listeners. Read More Read More
The State of Games, Ep. 111 – The One About Running With The Bulls
It’s time for the really big show! That’s right, it’s time to get our butts to Indianapolis for Gen Con! It’s hard to believe it’s here again so soon, and even as I post this a day before I’m leaving I still have about a week’s worth of work to do. It’ll all be worth it, though, to see the sights, the spectacles, and the super gamers having fun. Also, I’m really looking forward to some super spicy shrimp cocktail. Seriously. ... Read More
The State of Games, Ep. 109 – The One About Origins 2016
Hey there, it’s time for con season! Veteran podcast listeners know what to to expect around this time, but also veteran readers know what to expect for Origins Game Fair! That’s right, we love our time at the North Market, eating waffles and crepes at Taste of Belgium, plus naming our favorite ice cream flavors from Jeni’s! Beyond that, you’d best lay back and listen to our best bits from enjoying everything at the Origins Game Fair if you weren’t... Read More
The State of Games, Ep. 108 – The One About Heading to Columbus
It’s officially convention season! And it’s time to head out to one of the biggest shows of the year – Origins Game Fair in Columbus, Ohio! Other than PrezCon, this is probably my favorite show of the year. It’s big, but not so big that you don’t have time to catch up with all your favorite people and play some of your favorite games – and discover new favorites! So download and listen on your drive or flight; we’ll fill you in on all... Read More
The State of Games, Ep. 107 – The One About Our Origin Stories
We all have to start somewhere, right? As gamers, we can all trace our hardcore gaming roots back to a few select moments, and that’s what we try to get at in this episode. Naturally, Magic: The Gathering is the catalyst for most, but there are still a few surprises in store as to how we all got started down this long, winding, expensive – but lovely – road. After listening, tell us how YOU got started in gaming! Read More Read More
The State of Games, Ep. 104 – The One About Unpub 6
I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of the Unpublished Games Festival since way back at Unpub 2, and it’s hard to believe just how big this little big convention has gotten. Way back in the day it was a few designers huddled around some tables in a VFW hall, and now it’s a ton of gamers from all over invading the Baltimore Convention Center. It’s awesome! I can’t wait to see where Unpub 10 is going to be. Maybe the moon! Read More Read More
The State of Games, Ep. 103 – The One About Playtesting
Game design can often be a complex process that involves many people, not just the designer. One of the most important parts of the process is playtesting, and getting the game in front of quality playtesters is paramount. With Unpub 6 right around the corner, we thought it’d be cool to talk about how to get the most out of playtesting on both sides of the process. Oh, and you all should come to Unpub 6. Because it’s cool. Read More Read More
