The State of Games, Ep. 159 – The One About Played Out Games

Although the meat of this podcast might apply more to those gamers who have been punching cardboard for a few years, it’s still pretty clear that plenty of us have some games that – while they are still really great designs – we’d rather not hit the table as much anymore. And if you truly can’t relate to that we still have almost two hours of impressions for a ton of new hotness that you’ll want to know more about. It’s a big one to be sure, but we promise it won’t disappoint. Happy listening! Read More  Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 141: The One About Perception of Value

We love it when listeners send in podcast topic suggestions; not only does it mean that there are actually people out there paying attention to what we have to say, it also means that we don’t have to wrack our brains thinking of something interesting to talk about! This podcast topic comes to us from long-time listener Neil Biggs. He asked us to dig really deep into the retail and Kickstarter sides of what makes certain games hold a high value both for gamers & publishers. You’ll also get to hear about Darrell’s adventures at Essen Spiel, how TC designed a whole Euro about a boring city in 5 hours, and how I just had to... Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 139: The One About the Germans, Part Drei

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – October! So many great things happen this month, and most of them involve board games, buddies, and beer. This is definitely true when it comes to SPIEL, which takes place in Essen, Germany. I’ve been and it is quite the spectacle of crowds, games, and great drinks. This year it’s Darrell’s turn, and we sit down to (hopefully) prepare him for the greatest show on Earth. Come join us! Read More  Read More

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 More  Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 94 – The One About What’s In a Name

We love it when fans of the podcast send us topic ideas, and this time around Nat Levan took over the show with a fantastic outline about game names. We may have gotten a little carried away, but we think you’ll all have fun, nonetheless. Keep sending us those ideas! After all, this is your show, too, dear listeners. Read More  Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 93 – The One About Going to Essen

Although summer has passed and that means the end of the big game conventions here in the US, autumn brings even bigger things overseas; that, of course, is Spiel in Essen, Germany, a ginormous show where everyone who is anyone bring their wares to show off and sale. I’ve been wanting to go to Essen for most of my adult life and I’m finally getting my chance – although I have absolutely no idea what’s in store for me – except for beer and brats! Read More  Read More

The State of Games, Episode 53 – The One About The Germans

Ah, October. The best time of the year. Fall leaves, decorative gourds as far as the eye can see, cool temperatures… oh, and board games. Lots and lots of board games. Especially if you happen to be in Germany. Essen, to be exact. You see, that’s where the world’s largest board game convention is held each year – and it is awesome. Read More  Read More

A Particularly Scottish View of Essen Spiel

Although Monkey238 and I were not able to attend the Big Show in Essen this year, we were lucky enough to have a few friends in which we could live – and game – vicariously. One of those friends was Ian L. Smith, of Glasgow, Scotland. Ian and I don’t always see eye-to-eye on games, but we are always equal in passion and respect. When Ian began recounting his tales from Essen on Twitter, I eagerly interjected and learned about a whole bevy of games I need to sink my teeth into. I prodded Ian to share his thoughts with all you, dear readers, and he eagerly agreed. By way of an introduction, let me explain that I and around 9 of... Read More