The Dice Pirates: Recent Episodes
Ian Kenyon & Matt Clower
Join hosts Ian and Matt as they explore the high seas of board games, tabletop games, role playing games and anything else you play around a table with friends. From reviews to deep dives into mechanics and themes, the Dice Pirates are determined to chart every corner of the board gaming hobby.
Grab your fish and baskets and join the Dice Pirates crew as we embark on a review of Isle of Cats! Join the gang as they break down this surprisingly complex cat game, rave about tiny metal suitcases, and raise a glass in the memory of Klaus Teuber and the legacy of Catan.
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week it’s all about FAMILY as the crew get together to discuss some of our favorite racing games! Tune in to hear our thoughts on a coup d'etat in board games, the poetry of angry reviews, and the virtues of simulation vs arcade racing games. Also a surprising lack of Fast & Furious references.
[00:00:00] Intro[00:01:14] Aaron brings news of a HUGE upset on BGG[00:07:42] Ian stumps the boys with this weeks Bitter Board Gamers[00:14:16] Ian starts of the reviews with a discussion of Bristol 1350[00:24:02] Aaron brings the best Mario Kart ever, Dodos Riding Dinos[00:33:46] Ian brings the inspiration for this episode, Rallyman: GT[00:48:22] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Downforce, Salem 1692
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Editor’s note: Our audio got eaten by our recording software. Apologies for any choppiness.
This week, are joined by actual smart person Tori and take a deep dive into the history of the Tarot! We also ponder over shows and movies based on games, designers flying a bit too close to the sun, and and the storied history of Tarot cards.
[00:00:00] Intro[00:02:29] Ian gives his hyped review of the first few episodes of The Last of Us TV show[00:08:19] Matt gives a brief review of Tiny Epic Dungeons[00:14:27] Ian digs deep into the BGG reviews for another game of Bitter Boardgamers![00:25:13] Tori tells us all about the history of Tarot Cards[01:01:40] Outro
Tarot deck art discussed this episode: https://imgur.com/a/pbwo3BU
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Cribbage, 7 Wonders Duel, Agricola
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, the crew returns from a brief holiday hiatus and catches up from the holidays! We go over our resolutions from last year, talk about some new and favorite games we played over the break, and celebrate a momentous anniversary.
[00:00:00] Intro[00:01:16] Aaron kicks off with a recap of last year’s recap[00:08:20] Ian climbs on the soap box to throw some shade on BGA[00:13:49] Matt gives his thoughts about the weird choices for board game movies[00:19:23] Ian tries to stump Matt & Aaron with some Ruined Recaps[00:23:05] The gang chats about our holiday highlights[00:50:30] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Marvel United, Terraforming Mars, Agricola, Tiny Epic Pirates, Crusaders: Thy Will Be Done, Wrong Party, Fantasy Realms, Scout, Star Wars: Rebellion
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
It’s almost Christmas, and boy do we have a treat for you! This week the crew sits down with Gary Dworetsky, designer of the upcoming Slay The Spire The Board Game! Listen in as we rant about ridiculous overproduction in games, get completely stumped by Grumpy Gamers, and of course our interview with Gary!
[00:00:00] Intro[00:01:30] Aaron talks about the amazing value presented in the Fantasy Realms: Deluxe Edition[00:06:05] Ian really puts the screws to us with this weeks Bitter Board Gamers[00:16:36] Interview with Gary from Contention Games[00:59:44] The crew finish out with our personal thoughts on Slay the Spire[01:05:30] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Frosthaven, Oregon Trail Sign up for late pledges of Slay the Spire and more at ContentionGames.com
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, the crew discuss a few recent favorites! Tune in to hear Matt and Aaron’s latest obsession, an absolutely nauseating game, and how well a classic game system holds up today!
[00:00:00] Intro [00:01:16] Matt talks about a hot new mobile card game, Marvel SNAP! [00:12:08] Ian tries to trip up the boys with this week’s Bitter Board Gamers [00:19:12] For our first review, Ian gives his thoughts on a true modern classic, Hive [00:30:26] Matt tells us about the latest Pandemic-system game: Star Wars: The Clone Wars [00:42:23] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Isle of Cats, Coup
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week,the boys get a little “sketchy” with a conversation about white-board games! We discuss weird board game plots, a new video game obsession, and whether we could all use a nap. Climb aboard!
[00:00:00] Intro [00:01:53] Matt introduces a new game: Skip Intro [00:07:18] Aaron talks about a potential usurper to the Slay the Spire throne [00:14:52] Ian starts off our review section with a family classic, Telestrations [00:21:10] Aaron writes a brief review of one his favorite word games: Just One! [00:27:47] Ian sends us home with (probably) best trivia game: Wits & Wagers [00:37:01] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Isle of Cast, Slice & Dice (video game), Pictionary
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, the crew get slightly spooky with another triple header! Tune in to hear us talk about classic Southern restaurants, Matt’s obsession with old stuff, and more!
[00:00:00] Intro [00:00:56] Ian mounts the soapbox to talk about some truly strange “dice” [00:09:10] Matt climbs in to the time machine to talk about Nine Men’s Morris [00:17:24] Ian hosts another round of everyone’s favorite game Bitter Board Gamers! [00:24:24] Aaron starts off the reviews with Cindr [00:33:23} Ian reviews the terrifyingly terrible Oregon Trail: The Card Game [00:46:24] Matt finishes us off with an ACTUAL scary game, Horrified [00:57:47] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Gekido: Bot Battles, Libertalia
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, the boys decide to try out a simpler life with their review of Stardew Valley! Listen in to hear our thoughts on online board games, the sheer pleasure of a game teaching you slowly, and a fear of pie charts.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:20] Aaron waxes poetic about his unabashed love for Board Game Arena
[00:13:44] Matt talks about his experience with Jaws of the Lion and it’s wonderful on-boarding experience
[00:22:05] Aaron brings some Rule Book Randomness, courtesy of Obsession
[00:25:33] The crew dive in to their main discussion of Stardew Valley
[00:49:10] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: CuBirds
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The Dice Pirates return! After an extended hiatus the crew sets sail once again to discuss some of their favorite game. Join us for another session of Bitter Board Gamers, a classic Matt rant about Sagrada: Artisans, and Aaron breaks down Living Planet and his disdain for social interactions.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:02:20] The crew all get on the soapbox to try and puzzle out who asked for Sagrada: Artisans
[00:10:41] Ian hits us with a classic: Bitter Board Gamers
[00:17:30] Aaron starts off the reviews with Living Planet, with bonus mini rants!
[00:29:51] Ian fills us in on his impressions of Cities of Splendor
[00:42:35] Matt rounds out the reviews with Massive Darkness 2
[01:00:43] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Stardew Valley, Tiny Epic Galaxies
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The Dice Pirates return to cover some of their favorite pattern making games! It’s a throwback to the old days as Matt and Ian set sail without Aaron, and debut a new game, Ruined Recaps!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:00] Matt responds to a rant about too many solo games!
[00:08:20] Ian breaks down the newly available Castles of Burgundy Special Edition
[00:17:00] Ruined Recaps makes its debut!
[00:22:18] The crew jumps into three of their favorite pattern building games
[00:25:40] Ian leads off with Azul, the classic of the genre
[00:33:50] Cats take over the podcast with Calico
[00:42:20] Peer through the windows as the crew breaks down Sagrada!
[00:53:00] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Tiny towns
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The news is back! After our hiatus there is a lot to cover, so Aaron and Ian break down the new Gen Con safety requirements, yet another Azul variant, and FFG hitting a big milestone!
RELEASES
Portal Games newest title Batman: Everybody Lies sees players taking on the roles of iconic characters with unique hidden agendas and ways of gathering information
https://shopportalgames.com/products/batman-everybody-lies
WizKids rereleasing 2021 Kennerspiel des Jahres nominee Fantasy Realms with new Deluxe edition
https://wizkids.com/fantasy-realms-deluxe-edition/
Plan B announces Azul: Master Chocolatier, new edition of modern classic Azul
https://bgg.cc/boardgame/363247/azul-master-chocolatier
UK publishers Backspindle Games releasing Lucha Wars!, an updated version of their 2016 release Luchador! Mexican Wrestling Dice
https://www.backspindlegames.com/product/lucha-wars/
Asmodee Digital releases Jaws of the Lion DLC for Gloomhaven, also announces that the game will be coming to home consoles in 2023
https://twitter.com/AsmodeeDigital/status/1527257770524700673
EXPANSIONS
In honor of 25th anniversary, FFG is releasing the 25th faction for Twilight Imperium, the Council Keleres
https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/news/2022/4/28/the-council-awaits/
The next campaign expansion for Marvel Champions LCG, titled Mutant Genesis finally introduces the X-Men to the universe of the game
https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/news/2022/5/19/mutant-genesis/
NEWS
Financial investors The Chernin Group acquire 25% stake of Funko, also invest heavily in Exploding Kittens. They have also announced an intention to focus more in the CCG space
https://www.boardgamequest.com/the-chernin-group-buys-25-of-funko-more-ccgs-on-the-way/
Jim Butler names as new president of Paizo, Inc after current president Jeff Alvarez steps down for health reasons
https://paizo.com/community/blog/v5748dyo6si1o?Jim-Butler-Named-Paizo-President
Snakes & Lattes continues US expansion, adding two new stores in Glendale, CA and Provo, UT
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/51217/snakes-lattes-adds-two-u-s-locations
Gen Con, Origins announce proof of vaccination and mask wearing requirements for 2022 shows
https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-dawn-deestar-wood
https://www.gencon.com/gen-con-indy/health-and-safety
https://www.originsgamefair.com/show-policies
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
After an impromptu hiatus, the crew are back to discuss some small box games with big box fun! Tune in this week to hear about one publisher getting into some hot water for severely underestimating shipping costs, the surprising popularity of a particular fiddly game, and Matt finally plays a modern “classic”.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:14] Aaron brings up the Marvel Zombies shipping crisis
[00:07:15] Ian goes off script on the soapbox, wondering why so many people like Villanous
[00:12:06] Matt adds to the chaos with a tale of his first time ever playing Cards Against Humanity
[00:16:18] Ian tries once again to stump Aaron and Matt with some Bitter Board Gamers
[00:23:43] Ian starts off our main topic with Dutch Blitz
[00:30:18] Matt shockingly brings a dungeon crawler as his pick, Warhammer Quest
[00:42:06] Aaron finished up the show with two of his favorites, Looterz and Q.E.
[00:52:59] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Snake Oil, Robinson Crusoe, Oregon Trail, Heroes of Terrinoth
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Jump into the longest news episode yet, as Ian and Aaron break down all the new Wizards of the Coast news, Stonemaier's new Viticulture expansion, and Fantasy Flight Games surprising new announcement!
RELEASES
Wizards of the Coast announce two highly anticipated returning settings for 5E, Dragonlance and Spelljammer
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50988/wizards-coast-teases-d-d-dragonlances-return
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50989/wizards-coast-announces-d-d-spelljammer-adventures-space
Love Letter getting new Second Edition, 10th Anniversary release, and story based content
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/love-letter-second-edition/news/love-letter-second-edition
Next Move Games latest title Maui to feature competitive beach towel placement
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/maui/news/maui-board-game-announced-release-date
FFG surprise announces a Roll and Write set in the Twilight Imperium universe, Twilight Inscription
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/361545/twilight-inscription
EXPANSIONS
Wizards of the coast release a menagerie of creature tokens for DMs to improve their tabletop presence
https://wpn.wizards.com/en/products/dd-campaign-case-creatures-dungeons-dragons-accessories
Jaws of the Lion DLC for Gloomhaven digital to launch May 17
https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/780290/view/3180112431326071702
Greater Than Games releasing newest expansion to Spirit Island: Feather and Flame
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50987/spirit-island-expansion-heads-retail
Stonemaier Games announces new co-op expansion and big box “Wine Box” storage for Viticulture (World)
https://stonemaiergames.com/games/viticulture/viticulture-world/
NEWS
Stonemaier games delays pre-orders due to changing existing cards that contained insensitive material
https://stonemaiergames.com/south-america-cultural-consulting-and-fixing-a-big-mistake/
Asmodee announces Unbox Now, a digital site similar to Board Game Arena (will include 11 of their top games, and will also allow playing them in BGA)
https://venturebeat.com/2022/04/12/asmodee-launches-unbox-now-a-collection-of-its-best-board-games/
Wizards of the Coast acquire DndBeyond
https://dnd.wizards.com/news/announcement_04132022?utm_campaign=D%26D&utm_source=TWITTER&utm_medium=social&utm_content=6764725558
Isle of Cats publisher shares detailed behind the scenes numbers
https://old.reddit.com/r/boardgames/comments/u24pmu/five_years_as_a_publisher_some_statistics/
Uganda Village Boardgame Convention 2022 crowdfunding campaign is live
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/uganda-village-boardgame-convention-2022
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, the crew go deep in a discussion of the art of the teach. We talk about some admittedly weird anniversary game releases, how stars are really just like us, and the essential do’s and dont’s of sharing your favorite hobby with the people you love.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:55] Ian climbs on the soapbox to try and figure out just who Agricola 15 is actually for
[00:10:35] Matt shares how he was able to manifest Castles of Burgundy: Special Edition into existence
[00:18:41] The crew shares some silly rules from their own collection
[00:22:43] The crew gives their best practices for how to teach games and keep it fun
[00:49:38] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Wingspan, Pendulum, Consentacle, Dwellings of Eldervale, Dead of Winter
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The news is here again, and Ian and Aaron break down the new FFG expansions, Reiner Knizia turtle games, and the new Castles of Burgundy kickstarter!
RELEASES
Luma Imports releasing Garden Nation, an area control game from publisher Bombyx
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50872/luma-imports-will-release-garden-nation
Asmodee will handle retail release for Kickstarter hit Canvas
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50859/canvas-comes-u-s-retail
New Reiner Knizia title “Turtle Mania” to be released by Pegasus Spiele
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50844/pegasus-spiele-reveals-reiner-knizias-turtle-mania
Deep Print Games will publish Skymines, a reimplementation of 2015 hit Mombasa, including a new campaign mode and modules
https://boardgamegeek.com/blogpost/130673/earn-most-crypcoin-alexander-pfisters-skymines
EXPANSIONS
FFG announces next Cosmic Encounter expansion, “Cosmic Odyssey”
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50884/fantasy-flight-games-announces-cosmic-encounter-expansion
Czech Games Edition to release an expansion for their new edition of Galaxy Trucker called “Keep On Trucking”
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50867/galaxy-trucker-keep-trucking
NEWS
Alea games partnering with Awaken Realms to release an absolutely wild looking new deluxe version of The Castles of Burgundy
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/the-castles-of-burgundy/news/castles-of-burgundy-deluxe-edition
Agricola getting special 15th anniversary release called Agricola 15
https://www.dicebreaker.com/series/agricola/news/agricola-15-edition
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, Matt, Ian, and Aaron are joined by special guest Dani Standring to talk about some of our favorite 2 player games! We get into some industry talk, whether two player modes should even be included in some titles, and tease a future episode.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:00:54] Dani tells us about her journey into board games
[00:02:06] Dani gives us a little peek behind the curtains of GAMA
[00:06:56] Matt tells an absolutely toe-curling story (content warning: bad board game storage)
[00:11:00] Ian tries to stump us with this week’s Bitter Board Gamers
[00:17:45] Dani kicks off our main topic with her thoughts on what makes a great 2 player experience
[00:26:04] Aaron talks about one of his unlikely favorites, Inhuman Conditions
[00:35:25] Dani talks about one of her recent favorites, Botanik
[00:38:05] Matt discusses the space adventures of Star Realms: Outer Rim
[00:58:42] The crew ponders how well RPGs could work with only one “player”
[01:02:40] Outro
Huge thanks again to Dani for joining us!
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@dani_standring
Instagram: instagram.com/dani_standring
Facebook: twitter.com/dani_standring/
Discord: discord.gg/kRy9gNkFbu
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Tiny Epic Kingdoms, One Night Ultimate Werewolf, Ankh, Race for the Galaxy, Fog of Love, Riftforce, Unusual Suspects, Calico, Lost Cities
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
It's time for the news once again, as Aaron and Ian dive into new Marvel themed games, Knizia losing his spots on the top 100 of BGG, and Villainous selling like hotcakes!
Releases
New Marvel themed edition of Fantasy Realms, called Marvel Remix, published by WizKids
https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/marvel-remix-wizkids-card-game/
Anthology of 13 stand-alone adventures titled Journeys through the Radiant Citadel from Wizards of the Coast. Written by a team of PoC, a first for DnD
https://dnd.wizards.com/products/journeys-through-radiant-citadel
https://twitter.com/ajitgeorgeSB/status/1506290676476125189?t=H8xh14tIOYBJcWjdI9W_Aw&s=19
Portal Games co-publishes the North American edition of Brazil: Imperial, the fast-paced 4x euro game. This is the second game Portal Games has co-published for the english market
https://portalgames.pl/en/portal-games-to-co-publish-the-english-edition-of-brazil-imperial/
Expansions
New expansion for Villainous, Bigger and Badder. Includes Pixar villains
https://www.polygon.com/platform/amp/reviews/22979237/disney-villainous-bigger-badder-board-game-review-release-date-price#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16473664995502&csi=0&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com
New expansion for Parks, Wildlife
https://keymastergames.com/products/parks-wildlife
Star Wars: Outer Rim expansion, Unfinished Business
https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/news/2022/3/24/unfinished-business/
News
Catan dawn of mankind
https://www.google.com/amp/s/comicbook.com/gaming/amp/news/catan-dawn-humankind-new-game/
Tigris & Euphrates knocked off BGG top 100, where it has been since site started in 2001, used to be number 1, no more Knizia games in
https://www.reddit.com/r/boardgames/comments/tk7sgm/tigris_and_euphrates_knocked_off_the_bgg_top_100
https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/2030734/top-100-games-2001
New BGG app
https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/2833769/download-our-new-bgg-iphone-ipad-app
Marvel & Disney Villainous have combined sold over 3 million copies
https://www.dicebreaker.com/series/villainous/news/disney-marvel-villainous-sold-3-million-units
Asmodee Digital partners with Tilt Five for AR games
https://www.prweb.com/releases/tilt_five_partners_with_asmodee_digital_to_transform_family_game_night/prweb18571043.htm
Van Ryder Games, Lucky Duck to publish Dark Quarter, using same framework as Destinies
App based mystery game (investigative game)
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50755/van-ryder-lucky-duck-partner-dark-quarter
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, the crew are joined by Dice Pirate Tori to discuss Stonemaier Games’ latest release, Libertalia: Winds of Galecrest! Tune in to hear some grumpy game reviews, a brief history lesson on Ancient Egypt, and whether all player counts are valid for every game.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:02:42] Matt gives his impressions on Ankh
[00:08:55] Tori drops some actual knowledge about Ankh
[00:12:34] Ian brings the heat in this week’s installation of Bitter Board Gamers
[00:19:26] Tori, Ian, and Aaron give their reviews of Libertalia
[00:16:36] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Bluffaneer, Gekido: Bot Battles, Village Pillage
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The news keeps coming and this week Aaron and Ian discuss the new Stonemaier game, even more Villainous expansions, and Renegade Games re-releasing Crusaders: Thy Will Be Done.
Releases
Funko to release Rear Window, base on Hitchcock film
https://funkogames.com/games/rear-window-game/
Libertalia: Winds of Galecrest pre-orders available
https://stonemaiergames.com/games/libertalia/
Sleeping Gods Sequel, Sleeping Gods: Distant Skies announced
https://gamefound.com/projects/draft/k5jf8ffw634mqqq9d0dxa445814
Expansions
Ravensburger announces new Star Wars Villainous expansion :Power of the Dark Side)
https://www.polygon.com/22967946/star-wars-villainous-board-game-announcement-release-date-price
News
Renegade Games rereleasing Crusaders: Thy Will Be Done, along with long rumored expansion
https://renegadegamestudios.com/blog/announcing-crusaders-thy-will-be-done/
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, Matt, Ian, and Aaron take a deep dive into the card slinging world of deck builders! Tune in to hear us take on silky smooth segues, silly board game rules, and a deliciously spicy take about digital versus physical board games
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:21] Matt gives us his thoughts on a recent first time play of Robinson Crusoe
[00:07:39] Ian gives us a big run down on some tiny games
[00:10:03] The crew discuss the joys of silly first player rules
[00:16:09] Matt starts off our main topic and the undeniable legacy of Dominion
[00:28:34] Ian talks about a simple but huge addition to the formula with Tyrants of the Underdark
[00:49:14] Aaron makes an argument that digital implementations can be better than the original
[00:59:17] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: SPY, Trash Pandas, Valley of the Kings, FORT, Star Realms, Hero Realms, Shards of Infinity, Ascension
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
It's a bite-sized news episode this week! Aaron and Ian break down the new Dying Light board game announcement, the As d'Or game awards winners, and a new cooperative Catan expansion!
Releases
Avalon Hill teases 3rd edition of Betrayal at House on the Hill
https://mobile.twitter.com/avalonhill/status/1496203722350903302?s=21
Glass Cannon Unplugged to release Dying Light: The Game
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuR44zkkYLQ
Azul designer Michael Kiesling to release “The Border”
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/356996/border
Hasbro announces 2022 lineup, including Clue Treachery at Tudor Mansion and Monopoly: Bridgerton
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/50499/hasbro-reveals-board-game-plans-2022
Expansions
New cooperative expandalone for Carcassonne announced, Fog over Carcassonne
https://www.hans-im-glueck.de/news/NebelueberCC-1.html
Ravensburger releases latest Villainous expansion: Bigger and Badder
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/352764/disney-villainous-bigger-and-badder
News
Design blog for upcoming Hollandspiele game "Eyelet" by Amabel Holland. A quick and fun look into designing
https://boardgamegeek.com/blogpost/128061/designing-eyelet-or-knot-your-typical-roll-and-mov
The 2022 As d’Or winners announced, including 7 Wonders Architects as Game of the Year and Dune Imperium as “Expert” Game of the Year
https://www.facebook.com/FestivalDesJeux.Cannes
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
We’re back baby! After a short bout with scurvy, Matt, Ian, and Aaron are gathered around to once again talk about our recent board game obsessions. We talk about the joys of the oft-maligned “multiplayer solitaire” games, art reflecting life, the problems with too many symbols, and more!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:02] Ian brings us more hot takes in this week’s Bitter Board Gamers
[00:07:26] The crew ponders how much player interaction effects the fun of a game
[00:13:19] Matt discusses his first time playing the Late War variant for Twilight Struggle
[00:20:45] Ian kicks off the reviews with a discussion of Tiny Towns
[00:30:26] Aaron gives his (mostly good) impressions on Tiny Epic Dungeons
[00:48:02] Matt rounds out the episode with Night Cage
[01:00:05] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Sidereal Confluence, Forbidden Island
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
It's another week of news! Ian and Aaron return to discuss the recent Everdell for Everyone, Gale Force 9's partnership with Pathfinder, and the insane 85 hour play session to break the Guinness World Record!
Releases
Gale Force 9 partners with Paizo Publishing in a multi-year deal to publish multiple card and board games set in the Pathfinder and Starfinder universes
https://www.gf9games.com/pathfinder/pathfinder-level-20/
Stonemaier to announce new “revised” edition of 2012 classic, Libertalia: Winds of Galecrest
https://stonemaiergames.com/games/libertalia/
Calliope games announce indulgent Luxury Limited Edition of Tsuro
https://mailchi.mp/calliopegames/tsuro-limited-edition-signup
Expansions
Everdell for Everyone
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgameaccessory/353226/everdell-everyone
News
Four men in Gloucester play 85 hours of Dune to break world record and raise money for Alzheimer's charity
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-60129636
French board gaming awards As d'Or announces 2022 nominees
https://boardgamegeek.com/blogpost/127718/dor-nominees-2022
For the first time in almost a decade, Yu-Gi-Oh surpasses Magic the Gathering in Google search traffic
https://twitter.com/Real_Kilometers/status/1488009128295350277?cxt=HHwWioCqqeOavKYpAAAA
Jagex partners with Steamforged to create board and tabletop games set in Runescape universe
https://steamforged.com/pages/runescape-tabletop-games
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week Ian, Matt, and Aaron are joined by special guest TJ to discuss some satanic panic, how to successfully throw a game night, and our main topic Red Rising, from publisher Stonemaier Games!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:24] Aaron rants about bad choices in game upgrades
[00:08:55] TJ rants about the difficulties of having too many friends over for games
[00:21:23] Time again for some poorly reviewed games in Bitter Boardgamers, this week hosted by Aaron!
[00:32:54] The crew discuss our main game this week, Red Rising
[00:41:51] TJ tells us about how well the game shares its themes and story with the books
[00:51:12] Matt ponders if Red Rising is a good “gateway” game
[00:57:35] Everyone gives a quick recommendation for their favorite sci fi book series
[01:00:10] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: It’s a Wonderful Kingdom, Sushi Go!, Betrayal at House on the Hill, CuBirds
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
It is the new year and Aaron and Ian return to bring you more news! There's a lot happening lately, and the crew break down a slew of digital releases, even more minis, and the incredible success of Wingspan!
Releases
Direwolf has announced a digital version of Everdell
https://www.direwolfdigital.com/news/everdell/
Oink Games Deep Sea Adventure and A Fake Artist Goes to New York available on Switch
https://oinkgames.com/en/games/digital/lets-play-oink-games
Carcassonne designer announces next game, Fire & Stone
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/fire-and-stone/news/fire-and-stone-announcement
Expansions
Cephalofair Games announces Miniatures of Gloomhaven crowdfunding campaign, will include minis for all 3 games
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3MTmj6LlP0
FFG announces four new starter decks for Lord of the Rings LCG , allowing players to get started with ease
https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/news/2021/12/9/starting-the-journey/
News
Asmodee announces they are removing all current digital versions of Pandemic, claiming that they are “[making] way for the digital future of Pandemic”
https://gamerant.com/pandemic-board-game-digital-version-removal/
https://twitter.com/AsmodeeDigital/status/1483846697843408896?s=20
Wingspan passes 1 million copies sold!
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/wingspan/news/wingspan-1-million-copies
Exploding kittens announces an NFT sweepstakes
https://www.explodingkittens.com/blogs/sweepstakes/happysalmon-nft
Asmodee announces feature film based on The Werewolves of Miller’s Hollow
https://www.licenseglobal.com/entertainment/werewolves-millers-hollow-become-feature-film
Jamie from the Secret Cabal Podcast announces cancer diagnosis
https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/2782604/important-message-jamie-and-other-cabal-hosts-plea
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
It’s the new year and we are back! This week Ian, Matt, and Aaron gather around the table to discuss some holiday highlights, figure out some terrible reviews for fantastic games, and a World Premier Exclusive: Matt Was Wrong!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:28] Matt takes to the soap box to discuss the problems of living in the golden age of boardgames
[00:09:57] Ian brings out the worst of the best in Bitter Board Gamers
[00:20:43] Matt and Ian chat about a rare in person Dice Pirates game day
[00:36:42] Matt cuts himself a slice of humble pie and tells us the game he was completely wrong about, Marvel United
[00:49:26] Ian asks for everyone’s New Year’s gaming resolutions
[00:53:17] Outro
Other Games Discussed: Colt Express, Thurn and Taxis, Pokemon TCG, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
So, You’ve Been Eaten KS Update with stories about the supply chain crisis
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ludicreations/so-youve-been-eaten/posts/3404927
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, Matt and Ian are joined by long-time Dice Pirate Dennis for a discussion of one of the newest and hottest trends in board games, Legacy games!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:28] Ian kicks off the soapbox talking about some recent board game finds while thrifting
[00:03:14] Matt gives his thoughts on CMON’s newest title, Marvel Zombies and the almost human scale size Galactus
[00:07:02] The crew gambles on what games they could win at the World Series Board Gaming Championship
[00:15:00] We start our main topic with a history lesson on Legacy games
[00:18:20] Dennis breaks down his thoughts on Pandemic Legacy
[00:25:01] Matt shifts gears in the Scythe legacy expansion, and why it didn’t work as well
[00:32:36] Ian talks about his favorite game in this genre, Charterstone
[00:41:15] The crew dive into Gloomhaven and legacy RPG games
[00:52:43] Dennis asks what games we would like to be made Legacy, and the possibilities are endless!
[00:56:01] Outro
Other games discussed this episode: Blood Rage, Wingspan, Risk Legacy, Descent, Near and Far
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
It's time for the news once again, as Aaron and Ian break down the new Catan console releases, Wingspan coming to mobile devices, and Trivial Pursuit becoming a TV show yet again!
Releases
A new version of Catan launching soon for Xbox and Playstation consoles
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/catan-1/news/catan-digital-xbox-playstation-announced
Next Unlock Escape Room games to be based on Pandemic, Ticket to Ride and Mysterium
https://www.boardgameatlas.com/forum/hRL7s9bgG3/next-unlock-escape-room-game-will-be-about-different-board-games
Big Potato Games launches Jackbox competitor, Big Screen Games
https://bigpotato.co.uk/products/big-screen-games
Expansions
Wingspan and Gaia Project arrive on Android & iOS
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/wingspan/news/wingspan-digital-android-release
https://digidiced.com/gaiaproject/
News
Games Workshop makes a community post denouncing hate groups after an individual came to a community tournament in Spain wearing Nazi imagery
https://www.warhammer-community.com/2021/11/19/the-imperium-is-driven-by-hate-warhammer-is-not/
A very interesting post on why new games show up in the top 100 more often
https://boardgamegeek.com/blogpost/124590/choice-and-bias-why-new-games-top-bgg-rankings?s=09
Hasbro developing a Trivial Pursuit TV show, to be hosted by LeVar Burton, which marks the 5th time this particular game has been adapted into a show
https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/levar-burton-trivial-pursuit-game-show-eone-1235113240/
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, the crew tackle one of the most divisive topics in the hobby: apps in board games! Listen in to hear our thoughts on one of the greatest adventure games ever, some spicy takes, and the surprisingly long and deep history of technology in our board games.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:08] Matt talks about his decade long love of Skyrim, and our thoughts on the Skyrim board game
[00:05:04] Ian stumps us with this week’s game, Bitter Boardgamers
[00:11:06] Aaron gives us a history of apps in board games
[00:24:36] Ian moves us to the modern day discussion and where the industry is now
[00:35:17] Aaron talks about one of the positives of this trend: accessibility
[00:41:11] Outro
Tsuro, Battlesheep, X-Com: The Board Game, Alchemists, Destinies, Above & Below, Dropmix, Nyctophobia
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The news returns as Aaron and Ian bring you several new game announcements, including a follow up to the legendary Risk Legacy, a follow up to Paizo employees unionizing, and the baffling list of qualifier games for the Vegas World Board Game Championships
Releases
Fullmetal Alchemist board game coming Q1 2022, released for the 20th anniversary of Brotherhood anime
https://www.dicebreaker.com/amp/games/fullmetal-alchemist-the-promised-day/news/fullmetal-alchemist-board-game-japan
Risk Legacy Sequel will be coming out 2022
https://www.polygon.com/tabletop-games/22740263/risk-legacy-sequel-shadow-forces-announcement-release-date-price
Next title in the popular roll and write series Welcome To is a space based campaign game, titled Welcome To The Moon
http://bluecocker.com/en/landing-page/#post-987
Expansions
Czech Games Edition announce new Galaxy Trucker expansion, will be a “best-of” collection of previous expansions
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/galaxy-trucker/news/galaxy-trucker-reprint-expansion
News
Paizo leadership officially voluntarily recognizes union
https://paizo.com/community/blog/v5748dyo6shum?Paizo-Recognizes-United-Paizo-Workers
French publisher IELLO cuts ties with IELLO USA
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/49655/french-board-game-company-iello-ends-ties-iello-usa
World series board gaming announces list of qualifier games, more details
https://www.wsbgchampionship.com/
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Editor’s Note: Y’all, the wheels come off in this one. Prepare yourselves.
This week, Captain Ian is joined by Matt and Aaron, as they gather around the cauldron to discuss some of our favorite dark and dreary board games, just in time for Hallowe’en! Listen in to hear some hot takes about a very popular game mechanic, some terrible user reviews, and Halloween movie favorites!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:02:43] Aaron jumps on the soapbox to talk some trash about Sidereal Confluence
[00:09:34] Matt wonders if he was wrong about how much he loves Parks
[00:16:08] Ian brings back a crew favorite, Bitter Boardgamers!
[00:22:29] Ian kicks off our main topic with Mountains of Madness and it’s unique mechanic to represent losing your sanity
[00:32:40] Aaron talks about the joy of murdering your family in Gloom
[00:40:58] Ian tries to find the witch among us with Salem 1692
[00:47:41] Matt talks about the much loved and much maligned Betrayal at House on the Hill
[00:59:41] The crew finish up with some general spooky-times recommendations
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Dead of Winter, Codenames, Ta-Da!
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The news returns with a look at the new Warhammer 40k game, Paizo employees unionizing, and the recent scandal taking over competitive Bridge tournaments!
Releases
Warhammer releases Aeronautica Imperialis: Wrath of Angels https://www.polygon.com/reviews/22723334/warhammer-40k-aeronautica-imperialis-wrath-of-angels-review-x-wing
Deep Rock Galactic the board game
https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/548430/view/2872724629103521451
Expansions
Plaid Hat Games announces next two factions for Summer Wars 2E, Skyspear Avians and Cloaks
https://www.plaidhatgames.com/news/2021/10/04/announcing-skyspear-avians-and-cloaks/
News
Twitch leaked, and Critical Role is the top paid channel on all of Twitch
https://dotesports.com/streaming/news/full-list-of-all-twitch-payouts-twitch-leaks
FFG allegedly 'lost' their algorithm due to a ransomware attack
https://www.reddit.com/r/KeyforgeGame/comments/q4u3b4/more_kf_news_from_mr_buonocore/
30+ Paizo employees (makers of Pathfinder, Starfinder) unionize, a first of it's kind in the TTRPG space
https://mobile.twitter.com/PaizoWorkers/status/1448698340745486364
PAX Unplugged to require full vaccination and face coverings for all attendees.
https://mobile.twitter.com/pax/status/1445395757947838464
Bridge cheating scandal
https://www.newyorker.com/sports/sporting-scene/the-great-bridge-boycott
Hasbro Announces the Passing of Beloved Leader and Longtime Chairman & CEO Brian D. Goldner
https://investor.hasbro.com/news-releases/news-release-details/hasbro-announces-passing-beloved-leader-and-longtime-chairman
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
On this week’s episode, Matt and Ian are joined by Tori for a discussion of some of Ryan Laukat’s best designs: Above and Below, Near and Far, and the upcoming Now or Never! Plus some first impressions of recent plays, and the Dice Pirates finally agree with some terrible reviews!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:15] Matt gives his impressions of The King is Dead 2E from Osprey Games
[00:09:15] Tori takes her inaugural stand on the soapbox to talk about the woes of trying to play games online
[00:13:26] Ian brings us the best of the worst with Bitter Boardgamers
[00:22:45] Matt kicks off our main topic talk of the Arzium trilogy, talking about Above & Below
[00:35:49] Ian takes us to our next destination in Near & Far
[00:51:09] Ian walks through the upcoming Now or Never
[01:02:29] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Salem 1692, Unstable Unicorns, Sleeping Gods
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The new is back and this week we cover the recent Far Cry board game announcement, even more Dominion expansions, and the leaks that Asmodee may be up for purchase at a whopping 2 billion Euros!
Releases
Funforge and Ubisoft to release a board game set in the Far Cry universe, called Far Cry Beyond. No additional details at current.
https://mobile.twitter.com/Funforge/status/1440250619701313539?s=20
GMT announces their latest title, Cross Bronx Expressway
https://www.gmtgames.com/p-953-cross-bronx-expressway.aspx
Expansions
Rio Grande announces 14th Dominion expansion, Allies
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/49336/rio-grande-games-announces-new-dominion-expansion
Days Of Wonder partners with Breast Cancer Research Foundation to release a set of pink trains for Ticket to Ride, donating $2 from each set sold
http://blog.daysofwonder.com/2021/09/27/playpink-2/
News
Asmodee Digital's PC adaption of Gloomhaven is finally going to release the full campaign of the game, over 2 years after first launching in early Access on steam
https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/780290/view/4973652682558790831
Asmodee is up for sale, a bargain at only $2 billion euros
https://twitter.com/PodfatherGaming/status/1441016235723010050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1441016235723010050%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.belloflostsouls.net%2F2021%2F09%2Fasmodee-is-up-for-sale-again-this-time-for-billions.html
GAMA releases statement announcing that Jeff Bergen and TGG-Games are expelled from Origins 2021
https://www.gama.org/news/581189/GAMA-Statement-on-expelling-Jeff-Bergren-and-TGG-Games-from-Origins-Game-Fair-2021.htm
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
It’s our one year anniversary! Join us as we discuss some favorite moments from the podcast, games that surprised us this year, and then speculate on what trends will emerge in the coming year.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:02:13] The crew discuss our favorite episodes and moments from past shows
[00:07:49] Ian resurrects an old segment, “Whatcha been playin’?”
[00:16:32] Ian leads the crew through a tough round of Dice Pirates Trivia
[00:23:12] The crew discusses their favorite games from the past year
[00:27:08] Matt kicks off a discussion about this past year in board games
[00:44:35] Aaron starts our talk about future trends for the industry
[00:52:08] Outro
Shout out to all of our past guests: Jamey Stegmaier (@jameystegmaier), Lily (@play_it_solo), Harry (@whenharrymetboardgames7), Carly (@gnarlycarleygaming), Jim (@epicjim)
Games discusses this episode: Tammany Hall, Charterstone, Battlesheep, Draftosaurus
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The news keeps coming! This week Aaron and Ian cover a lot of ground, including the recent break-in at Pandasauras Games, Ravensburger cancelling new orders, and mourn the passing of the legendary Reuben Klamer
Games
Funko Games and Prospero Hall announce Jurassic Park Legacy (working title), a legacy game taking place from the creation of the park through it's entire storied history. No further details available
https://funkogames.com/games/jurassic-legacy/
Asmodee and Repos Productions announce 7 Wonder Architects, a standalone game focused on being a bit simpler and family friendly / easier to teach and learn
https://youtu.be/Ij8Ckzwat-w
Game Trayz announces their first published game, Forsaken
https://gametrayz.com/game-trayz-lab/
Next Move Games announces the fourth and final title in the Azul series: Azul Queen's Garden, slate to release at Essen 2021
https://www.boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/346965/azul-queens-garden
Expansions
FFG announces that new Keyforge expansion on hold due to "broken" algorithm, also teases digital version coming from Stainless Games
https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/news/2021/9/10/down-but-not-out/
News
Ravensburger stops orders
https://toybook.com/ravensburger-north-america-halts-orders-amid-global-supply-chain-crisis/
Andrei Novac, manager at Board & Dice games provides a very insightful breakdown of how board game publishers make and spend money on a post at BGG
https://boardgamegeek.com/blogpost/122099/board-game-price-breakdown
Publisher Pandasaurus warehouse robbed
https://www.instagram.com/p/CTyUJbhr-7P/
Many publishers and developers pull support from TGG after offensive image and response
https://techraptor.net/tabletop/news/white-supremacist-art-throttles-tournament-fishing-board-game-publicity
Lost Ruins of Arnak wins Deutsche Spielepreis award, from company behind Essen Spiel, the world's largest tabletop gaming event
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/lost-ruins-of-arnak/news/deutsche-spielepreis-2021
Reuben Klamer, designer of The Game of Life has passed away at 99 years old
https://peopleofplay.com/blog/reuben-klamer-toy-industry-icon-and-inventor-of-the-the-game-of-life-has-reluctantly-left-this-world-at-99
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, Matt, Ian, and Aaron take a deep dive into Eric Lang’s Mythology Trilogy! We talk about whether technology belongs in board games, if Loki is really a good guy, and how Ankh’s God merge mechanic is actually good!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:13] Matt gives his opinions on the newest release from Fantasy Flight Games, Descent: Legends of the Dark
[00:08:54] Ian challenges Matt and Aaron to take some bold stances in “The Good, The Bad, and The Neutral”
[00:17:46] The crew starts off with a general talk about their feelings on the Mythology Trilogy
[00:25:14] Ian sees red as we start off talking about Blood Rage
[00:35:54] Matt negotiates to begin our chat about Rising Sun
[00:44:33] Aaron rounds out the trilogy with his thoughts and impressions on Ankh
[01:00:02] Outro
Other Games Discussed in this Episode: Destinies
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Aaron and Ian return for another update on Board Gaming. This week get ready for maze racing Dungeon Scrawlers, CMON announcing NFTs, and CATAN themed beers!
Releases
WizKids announces D&D Dungeon Scrawlers
https://wizkids.com/2021/08/19/race-your-friends-through-the-dungeon-mazes-of-undermountain-in-dungeons-dragons-dungeon-scrawlers-heroes-of-undermountain-coming-soon/
Pegasus Spiele releasing a sequel to last year’s smash hit, MicroMacro Crime City - Full House
https://pegasus-web.com/products/family-games/12542/micromacro-crime-city-2-full-house
Fantasy Flight announces A Game of Thrones: B'Twixt (plays like Between two cities, players with most power in weakest council win)
https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/news/2021/9/2/political-waltz/
News
Following the cancellations of Metal Gear Solid and Key & Locke, games publisher IDW Games is closing
https://www.dicebreaker.com/companies/idw-games/news/idw-games-closure
Champion Brewing announces a series of CATAN themed beers
https://table22.com/champion#membership-tiers
CMON partners with Monsoon Digital to release a series of NFTs
https://www.cmon.com/news/cmon-partners-with-monsoon-digital-to-launch-an-nft-trading-platform
So far this year, 28 tabletop games (TTRPGs & board games) have raised over $1M each, with 6 being TTRPGs; previously only 4 had broken the million dollar threshold ever
https://www.dicebreaker.com/topics/kickstarter/news/tabletop-games-kickstarter-stats-h1-2021
Record numbers of container ships off California coast
https://news.yahoo.com/record-breaking-44-container-ships-145905612.html
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
We're blasting off into the great beyond! Joined by Aaron the Dice Pirates discuss the trials of trying to play board games online, the sheer audacity of Wizards of the Coast, as well as some of our favorite space games.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:48] Matt briefly talks about Board Game Arena, and how much better it is than Tabletop Simulator
[00:07:50] Aaron rants about some upcoming releases for Magic: The Gathering
[00:13:54] Ian brings us some more chaos in Rule Book Randomness
[00:19:18] Matt sends us in to the ‘verse with Firefly: The Game
[00:26:25] Aaron blasts off into his game for the week, Roll for the Galaxy
[00:34:56] Ian enters orbit above one of his favorites, Tiny Epic Galaxies
[00:44:26] Ian and Matt clear their schedule to talk about the infamous Twilight Imperium
[00:58:12] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Feudum, Rommel: North Africa
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
It's time for another news roundup, and this time Aaron and Ian cover the Perfectly Wretched Villainous expansion, Magic the Gathering decks getting copyrighted, and the ongoing battle between Reiner Knizia and Grail Games
New Releases
The Crew: Mission Deep Sea
https://www.kosmos.de/spielware/spiele/familienspiele/11756/die-crew-mission-tiefsee
Expansions
Villainous: Perfectly Wretched Expand-alone
Cruella de Vil from 101 Dalmatians, Mother Gothel from Tangled, and Pete from Steamboat Willie.
https://www.ravensburger.us/products/games/family-games/disney-villainous-perfectly-wretched-60001897/index.html
News
A Magic The Gathering deck has been copyrighted
https://mtgazone.com/for-the-first-time-ever-a-magic-the-gathering-deck-has-been-copyrighted/
Gencon will require masks for everybody
https://gencon.blog/2021/08/06/august-health-and-safety-update/?fbclid=IwAR2eestUkkUErlMyn5KfFOFqetraQo1yX9CWgw9UqYa40YcxOQbjrIDl0dk
Knizia pulls all upcoming titles
https://www.dicebreaker.com/categories/board-game/news/knizia-games-terminates-releases
Ashley Taylor’s statement on Broken Token
https://medium.com/@ashrtaylor13/speaking-up-to-protect-others-73f152bcb772
Cephalofair games seeks a new company for insert for Frosthaven after allegations surface over Broken Token CEO
https://twitter.com/Cephalofair/status/1428393530532171779\
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, the crew is once again joined by fan-favorite Aaron to discuss something a little off topic - video games! We talk about a slept-on Eric Lang hit, everyone’s favorite kitchen backsplash simulator, and our current roguelike deck building obsession.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:36] Matt ponders why The Godfather: Corleone’s Empire was sent to sleep with the fishes
[00:07:09] Ian announces that he has finally joined the cult of Kickstarter with Avatar Legends
[00:08:46] Aaron sings a funeral dirge for CMON Expo and The Legion
[00:11:34] Ian shares some truly awful takes in Bitter Board Gamers
[00:19:02] Aaron starts off our main topic with discussion of Slay the Spire, and it’s oft-forgotten predecessor, Dream Quest
[00:33:33] Ian strategically moves into our next game, Into The Breach
[00:39:08] Aaron deduces the next topic, Among Us
[00:42:51] Honorable mentions: Gnosis, Solitairica, Demeo
[00:46:55] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Azul, Blood Rage
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Aaron and Ian return for another news roundup, including the wild success of the Avatar: The Legends Kickstarter, Tasty Minstrel Games going bankrupt, and the recent controversy surrounding Games Workshop
New Releases
-Horrified: American Monsters
https://www.gamesradar.com/au/amp/horrified-american-monsters-board-game-sequel-brings-bigfoot-and-the-mothman-to-town/
-G I Joe Deck Building game
https://renegadegamestudios.com/g-i-joe-deck-building-game/
-Dune: Betrayal (by the designer of The Resistance)
https://dunenewsnet.com/2021/07/first-look-dune-betrayal-game-coming-october/
-Wotc and WizKids releasing a line of modular, sprue based minis for ttrpgs
https://www.belloflostsouls.net/2021/08/dd-wizkids-announces-frameworks-custom-sprue-based-miniatures-for-your-campaign.html
-Upcoming kickstarter for Avatar the Last Airbender
Reached 2.6 million after 48 hours
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/magpiegames/avatar-legends-the-roleplaying-game/description
News
-Tasty Minstrel Games may be shutting down, according to Dice Tower News (haven't found anything else to corroborate this yet)
https://www.reddit.com/r/boardgames/comments/ovuks6/tasty_minstrel_games_has_folded
-Head of Z man games taking new position in Asmodee. Founder of Plan B Games, Sophie Gravel will be taking
https://www.zmangames.com/en/news/2021/8/5/behind-the-z-deja-vus-of-change/
-Games Workshop not paying their employees enough?
https://www.reddit.com/r/Warhammer40k/comments/ov88a0/gw_wage_scandal_the_facts/
https://www.breakroom.cc/en-gb/employers/games-workshop/pay
-Games Workshop shutting down fan animations to make way for their own new streaming site
https://www.pcgamer.com/games-workshop-is-trying-to-shut-down-fan-animations/#:~:text=Games%20Workshop%20is%20facing%20backlash,make%20a%20lot%20of%20sense.&text=%22Individuals%20must%20not%20create%20fan,on%20our%20settings%20and%20characters.
-Games Workshop gives employees a $7000 bonus after big pandemic sales, as well so increased profit shares equal to ~$1000
https://www.businessinsider.com/games-workshop-gives-out-7000-bonuses-following-pandemic-sales-boom-2021-7
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
On today’s episode, Matt & Ian are joined by EpicJim in a spirited discussion about role-playing games, running your very first session as a Dungeon master, the importance of not over prepping for sessions, and whether or not Batman truly is Lawful Good!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:07] Jim introduces himself and talks about his experience points with D&D and his truly GLORIOUS gaming dungeon!
{00:04:00] Ian opens the soap box with a discussion of international logistics and how that is effecting board games and specifically Kickstarter games
[00:06:26] Matt talks about MÖRK BORG and how it is lighting up the OSR scene
[00:13:10] Jim discusses the recent Magic: the Gathering / Dungeons & Dragons crossover
[00:18:14] Ian brings us a new game: The Good, The Bad, and The Neutral
[00:22:17] How to be a good dungeon master
[00:33:40] The best things to have as a DM
[00:36:47] The crew tackle the best way to handle combat
[00:44:39] How to use “The Rule of Cool” responsibly
[00:52:30] What are all the best parts of being the DM?
[00:58:52] Outro
Find Jim on Instagram @EpicJim
The Lazy Dungeon Master - by Michael E. Shea
https://www.amazon.com/Lazy-Dungeon-Master-Michael-Shea/dp/1073741117
Running The Game - Youtube Series by Matthew Colville
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlUk42GiU2guNzWBzxn7hs8MaV7ELLCP_
The Monsters Know What They're Doing - Keith Ammond Blog on running intelligent combat
https://www.themonstersknow.com/
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Aaron and Ian debut a new show to bring you the latest in board gaming releases, expansions, and news! Check out the show notes for links to the games and news mentioned.
Upcoming releases
Z-Man Games and Blizzard announce World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King, a Pandemic-style game set in the world of Azeroth. Now available to preorder on Blizzard’s website
https://gizmodo.com/a-new-world-of-warcraft-board-game-sees-pandemic-spread-1847243316
Horrible Guild announced a follow-up to King’s Dilemma, the appropriately titled Queen’s Dilemma, featuring a new world map and promises of more tracks to manage and even wilder and more powerful event cards to keep players on their toes.
https://www.horribleguild.com/the-queens-dilemma/
Expansions
Catan: Treasures, Dragons, & Adventurers
(Catan Studios)
Between Two Castles: Secrets & Soirees
(Stonemaier Games)
News
Dice Tower announced their awards for 2020, with notable highlights being their GOTY - The Crew: Quest for Planet Nine (a co-op trick taking game in the same vein as Hanabi or The Mind)
https://www.dicetower.com/dice-tower-awards/2020
Spiel de Jahres winners announced
https://boardgamegeek.com/blogpost/120501/micromacro-crime-city-wins-spiel-des-jahres-2021-w
Spiel de Jahres - MicroMacro: Crime City
Kennerspiel des Jahres - Paleo
CMON quietly announces through an update on the Marvel United X-Men KS campaign that they will no longer be selling or shipping Kickstarters to Norway, due to an update of their postal regulations.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cmon/marvel-united-x-men/posts/3238975
https://www.reddit.com/r/boardgames/comments/oh32vj/cmon_no_longer_shipping_kickstarters_to_norway/
Three of the largest board game conventions, Essen Spiel, UKGE & Gen Con have announced that they will require either face coverings or proof of COVID vaccination
https://www.dicebreaker.com/events/essen-spiel-2021/news/essen-spiel-2021-covid-19-requirements-immunisation-masks#comments
https://twitter.com/SPIEL_Messe/status/1413491372523356166
https://www.dicebreaker.com/events/gen-con-2021/news/gen-con-2021-covid-19-face-masks-vaccination
https://gencon.blog/2021/07/08/june-july-health-and-safety-update/
https://www.dicebreaker.com/events/uk-games-expo-2021/news/uk-games-expo-2021-revises-covid-19-guidelines-to-make-tests-vaccination-and-masks-mandatory
Reiner Knizia cuts ties with Grail Games publisher due to a breach of contract
https://www.dicebreaker.com/companies/grail-games/news/knizia-cuts-ties-with-grail-games
https://techraptor.net/tabletop/news/reiner-knizia-seeks-legal-action-against-grail-games
Watch it played & SU&SD both celebrate 10 years
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The crew are joined this week by the one and only GnarlyCarley! They break down some great cooperative games from across the genre, and chat about the challenges of playing board games online, the benefits of dice vs cards, and avoiding quarterbacking “board game bullies”.
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:06] Carley talks about how she got started gaming and her journey through Instagram
[00:05:40] Matt brings some spicy takes about Sushi Roll and almost gets mutinied by Carley
[00:13:05] Carley talks about her recent experience playing Blood on the Clocktower
[00:19:33] Ian tries to stump Matt & Carley in this week’s Bitter Board Gamers
[00:27:47] The friendly, helpful joy of Cooperative games
[00:30:40] Carley starts us off with a discussion of Pandemic: Legacy
[00:38:44] Matt continues the Leacock love with the Forbidden Island trilogy
[00:42:15] Carley takes us on an adventure through Robinson Crusoe
[00:48:27] Matt reveals himself as the hidden traitor and takes us through semi-coop games with Dead of Winter
[00:52:52] Carley betrays us with a talk about Nemesis
[00:59:45] Carley sets sail with Sleeping Gods
[01:05:10] Ian investigates 1 vs All games with Scotland Yard
[01:10:20] Matt rounds out the show with his number 1 coop, Spirit Island
[01:19:05] Outro
Find Carley on Instagram @GnarlyCarleyGaming, with a YouTube channel coming soon!
Other Games Discussed this Episode: Terra Mystica, Sushi Go, Parks, Gloomhaven, Not Alone,
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The Dice Pirates are back from hiatus (joined by special guest Aaron) and Ian walks us through the history and meteoric rise in popularity of modern board gaming! We talk about some terrible games from when you were a kid, Germany’s role in both creating some of what are still the most popular games, how they almost stopped Risk from releasing, and the shifting styles of popular games over the years.
[00:00:00] Intros
[00:01:36] Matt talks Tsuro, and the joy of “simple” games
[00:08:03] Ian discusses some recent controversy with Prison Architect
[00:17:34] Ian surprises the crew with a new segment, Rulebook Randomness
[00:22:07] The Renaissance of Board Games
[00:25:08] Family games paving the way
[00:28:13] Germany’s significance and impact on modern games
[00:42:33] The Holy Trinity of modern games and some great years for games
[00:52:42] Social media’s part in the growth of the hobby
[01:01:31] Where are we know, and what does the future hold?
[01:07:15] Outro
Other Games Discussed This Episode: Here I Stand, The Omega Virus, Settlers of Catan, Munchkin, Carcassonne, Dominion, Pandemic, Cards Against Humanity
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, Ian & Matt are joined once again by regular guest Aaron to discuss the importance of cultural consultants, some truly eye-watering Kickstarter numbers, and the effects Kickstarter has had on the board game industry. Also featuring an exclusive interview with Jamey Stegmaier of Stonemaier Games!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:23] Soap Box - Issac Childres hires a Cultural Consultant for Frosthaven
[00:12:17] Soap Box - Ian talks about an upcoming Sign Language inspired TTRPG, Inspirisles
[00:15:27] Kickin’ It with Aaron! - The Crew talks some hard numbers about Kickstarter
[00:25:11] Kickstarter: Are We Good?
[00:26:50] Aaron talks about his history with Kickstarter and his thoughts on the industry
[00:31:43] Jamey Stegmaier joins us to discuss the lessons he’s learned over the years, both as a game designer and game backer on Kickstarter
[00:56:32] How to make smart choices when backing a Kickstarter
[01:00:53] Ian talks about the toxicity that killed a Warframe-inspired TTRPG
https://www.dicebreaker.com/categories/roleplaying-game/feature/cancelled-warframe-fan-rpg-toxic-harrassment
[01:10:31] Outro
A huge thank you once again to Jamey Stegmaier for giving us even more time than he promised and for being such a phenomenal guest!
A brief programming note: the podcast will be taking some time off as Ian prepares to move, but don’t change that dial! We’ll be back before you know it.
Other games discussed this episode: Exploding Kittens, Fog of Love, Gloomhaven, Warframe
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Ian & Matt are joined by special guest Harry from When Harry Met Board Games to discuss their feelings on board game awards, how much math is too much math, as well as some of their favorite fantasy adventure games!
[00:00:00] Intro
[00:01:34] 2020 BoardGameGeek Golden Geek Awards
[00:13:36] Bitter Boardgamers
[00:22:21] When Harry Met Board Games Introduction
[00:26:32] Early Fantasy Adventure Games (Magic Realm, Talisman, Hero Realms)
[00:33:26] Harry deals out Thunderstone Quest
[00:40:19] The Crew punches through Gloomhaven
[00:52:00] Harry unpacks One Deck Dungeon
[01:00:22] Matt FINALLY gets to talk about Runebound!
[01:16:43] Outro
A huge thank you again to Harry for taking the time to hang out with us!
When Harry Met Board Games on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrS8cb-d2MQDSa3fct47rjw
When Harry Met Board Games on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/whenharrymetboardgames7/
Other games discussed this episode: Sushi Go, Elder Sign, Call to Adventure
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This week, our fearless captains Matt & Ian are joined by return guest Max and long time listener, first time caller Dr. Dennis to discuss the terrible effects of scurvy & the endless attempts in boardgaming to explore, terraform, and colonize Mars! Featuring two seminal titles in this space, Terraforming Mars & On Mars.
[00:00:00] Introductions
[00:01:33] Soapbox - Eric Lang’s challenge against the current idea of a “gateway game”
[00:15:14] Soapbox - Terraforming Mars Big Box 3D Tiles Review Bombing
The wooden tiles for Terraforming Mars mentioned by Matt: Strata Strike / www.stratastrike.com
[00:20:29] Soapbox - Tyrants of the Underdark Second Edition coming soon
[00:26:04] Two Games Enter, One Game Leaves! Terraforming Mars VS On Mars
[00:27:47] Terraforming Mars Breakdown & Discussion
[00:44:52] On Mars Breakdown & Discussion
[01:00:26] The Showdown
[01:09:08] Outro
OTHER GAMES DISCUSSED THIS EPISODE: UNO
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
There can only be one, player that is! This episode the Dice Pirates return to talk about even more solo games! Joined by guest star Lily from @Play_It_Solo they cover a wide variety of games from the epic Mage Knight, to the quick and simple games from Button Shy publishers. Also featuring discussions on why many games require the purchase of an expansion to play solo, the latest incredibly successful kickstarter from CMON, and a return of Bitter Board Gamers!
00:00:00 Intro & Lily from @Play_It_Solo Joins us
00:01:50 Soap Box
00:14:14 Bitter Board Gamers
00:22:48 Lily from @Play_It_Solo introduction & Mage Knight
00:35:07 Aaron discusses Food Chain Island & Ugly Gryphon Inn; the joy of small quick games
00:40:15 Lily discusses Clank! In! Space!; board games with apps
00:46:04 Matt discusses Escape the Dark Castle
00:59:00 Aaron discusses Raiders of the North Sea; AI players playing more “aggressively” than humans players
01:06:23 Lilly discusses Expedition to Newdale
01:12:31 Outro
OTHER GAMES DISCUSSED
Anachrony, Marvel United: X-Men, X-Men: Mutant Insurrection, Sagrada, Terraforming Mars
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Grab a seat for the longest episode yet, as the Dice Pirates break down designer Stefan Feld's venerable classic, Castles of Burgundy, and it's spiritual sequel, Castles of Tuscany. Does the new game live up to Burgundy's reputation? Did Stefan succeed in reimagining his masterpiece? Joined by OG pirate Max, Ian and Matt break it down, and also quickly review Twilight Struggle, briefly discuss John Company 2nd Edition, and play another round of Bitter Board Gamers!
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Joined once again by Aaron, the Dice Pirates take a trip down the history of one of the most storied publishing houses in board gaming, Fantasy Flight Games. What is behind the recent changes at FFG? And how did they get there? We cover that and more, as well as the recent Stellaris kickstarter, thoughts on Vital Lacerda's new game 'On mars', and discuss the debate over Paleo's representation.
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Grab a friend and join the Dice Pirates as they delve into three of their favorite 2-player games! Featuring Glasgow (2020), Nations: The Dice Game (2014) and 7 Wonders Duel (2015), and Sushi Go! (2013). We also break down the recent controversy on the BGG forums surrounding Tiny Epic Dungeon's kickstarter cover art, and announce the details of our new giveaway!!!
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Break out the D20s and join Matt and Ian as they talk about getting into D&D, and discuss the best way to get into the fantastic hobby. Also featuring a review of the new game Bluffaneer by Big G Creative!
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The clock is ticking as Matt and Ian review Stonemaier Games 2020 release Pendulum. This real time worker placement game has been a divisive entry from Stonemaier. How will the Dice Pirates feel about this bold new game? Did it live up to the hype? Will Matt continue to be demoted? Find out this episode!
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The Dice Pirates return in 2021! In their first foray of the new year, Matt and Ian cover three of their favorite games from the Holiday season, and discuss the upcoming Slay the Spire board game and RPG system Mörk Borg
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This episode the Dice Pirates include the whole family! Joined again by Aaron they discuss how to choose games to play with kids, keeping everyone engaged, and provide some suggestions for last minute Christmas shopping!
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This episode hosts Ian and Matt dive into themes in board games! What makes a game "thematic"? How does theme affect gameplay? And what are some of their favorite thematic games?
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
Matt and Ian return with guest star Aaron Wolfe to cover Single-player board games! They discuss this corner of the tabletop community, and cover the benefits of solo games, and suggest some great starters for new players!
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
This episode the Dice Pirates look way back to a hidden treasure of tabletop gaming, Dune from Avalon Hill (1979). They take a deep dive into the history of this classic, and why it has stood the test of time.
- Intro and Outro Music - "A Robust Crew by Darren Curtis"
The Dice Pirates delve into the dark and dangerous depths of the Dungeon Crawler Tabletop genre! This episode they cover the history of Dungeon Crawlers, and discuss the finer points of what makes these games so memorable.
- Intro and Outro music "A Robust Crew" - Darren Curtis
The Dice Pirates return in their second episode to discuss gateway games! Tabletop gaming can be an intimidating hobby, but Matt and Ian are here to break down the best ways to introduce people to the wonderful world of board gaming!
- Intro and Outro music "A Robust Crew" - Darren Curtis
In the Dice Pirates' maiden voyage, Matt and Ian discuss their plans for the podcast, and their top 5 tabletop games.
- Intro and Outro music "A Robust Crew" - Darren Curtis
Ian and Matt are scouring the high seas for the best tabletop games, join them for a quick taste of what's to come!
- Intro and Outro music "A Robust Crew" - Darren Curtis