The State of Games, Ep. 182: The One About Getting the Brand Back Together

Sometimes you just need a do-over. Dice Hate Me and Greater Than Games have been together since 2015, but that’s changing now. Dice Hate Me is independent once again, and it’s both scary and exciting. We talk honestly about what all of that entails – well, I talk honestly while TC grills me like Mike Wallace. But it’s all good – and good listening for all of you, Dear Listeners. Enjoy, and thanks for coming along for the ride for as long as you have. And if you’re new, welcome! Hope you like your podcasts with a touch of whimsy and randomness. Read More  Read More

The State of Games Ep. 172: The One About One Quiet Night

We are truly living in strange times, and, as such, we thought it was time to take a moment to reflect on how things have changed and what we’ve all been through in the past couple of months. Among the three of us, no one has been through more than our own Darrell Louder, whose family has been living in a COVID-positive household, resulting in him, his mother-in-law, and his son dealing directly with the virus. Yes, it’s a heavier episode, but we do take some time for levity and talk about how we can all deal with our self isolation with some quality gaming, proving that when times get tough we can always count on games to help keep... Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 154 – The One About the Top 5 Games EVER

We love when listeners get involved with the podcast and, because of comments and feedback from all of you, this podcast was magical. We’ve revisited our favorite games of all time occasionally but never within the context of a listener-curated list. And, oh, what an incredibly varied list it was! It just goes to show that all of you love so many different games in this hobby and that, dear listeners, is a truly wonderful thing. Happy listening! Read More  Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 146: The One About Expanding Your World

Love ’em or hate ’em, board game expansions are a huge part of the industry. Some companies survive just on expansions for their most popular titles, which can sometimes lead to consumer fatigue. They can often feel like cash grabs, but on occasion an expansion is released that not only provides more content for a game – it also makes that game better. So settle in Dear Listeners – we’re here to separate the suck from the essentials, all just for you. Read More  Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 130: The One About Mysterious Mysteries

This week we all jump in the Mystery Machine and brave that old, abandoned amusement park – all for your listening pleasure! Yes, this time we’re all about the mystery games, whether they be about gumshoes, serial killers, or just sending a love letter to your betrothed. Unfortunately, Darrell couldn’t be along for this ride since he almost got killed by a tree. But that’s a mystery for another day! 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  Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 110 – The One About Mt. Gamesmore

Coming at you live from RuthCon, it’s The State of Games! Jessica and I got a chance to record in person this episode at RuthCon 2016, hosted by our friend Ruth Boyack. It was pretty awesome, and better organized than both Origins and GenCon combined. TC joined us via Skype and we talked about some pretty geeky game design business, but it turned out to be one of our best episodes yet. So get comfy, grab your encyclopedia of classic game design, and crank it up! Read More  Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 100 – The One About the State of Games

It’s hard to believe that almost exactly five years ago we plunged headlong into the podcasting world with the debut of The State of Games. It was just Cherilyn and me back in those wild west days of yesteryear, and it really feels like it was two blinks in the past. There’s been so much change between then and now, both in the hobby, in business, and in personal life, but at least one thing has stayed the same – being able to speak my mind about my favorite things and bring board gaming love to so many more. Read More  Read More

The State of Games, Ep. 87 – The One About Growing New Gamers

One of the many benefits of our recent survey was to ask listeners what they’d really like for us to talk about, and plenty of you requested tips for getting new gamers into the hobby. We’ve responded with a great episode on how experienced gamers can best evangelize to those new gamers, either in your Friendly Local Game Store, or amongst your less-experienced friends and family. Hopefully you’ll all find this guide to growing new gamers helpful as we all work to build upon this great hobby! Read More  Read More