Eat Lunch and Board Game: Recent Episodes
Adam F Collins
Need a better lunch break at work than just occupying yourself on your phone or surfing the internet? Why not start a board game group? Adam started a gaming group at his office. He also reviews games on their lunch time playability among other attributes. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/adam-f-collins/support
As you know, I have been playing a lot of Long Shot and Long Shot: The Dice Game. I have been waiting for the next release, WIN, to finally hit the stores. Well, last week, I received the email that my preorder was in! So, I drove out to the FLGS to pick up my copy of Chris Handy’s seventeenth game in the Perplext Pack-O-Games series, WIN: A Long Shot Game.
Once again, in WIN, you and your opponents are betting on the horses at the track. The bettor who has the most cash at the end of the race, is the winner!
I was curious how Chris could pair the game down to fit into the gumpack sized box. I was worried that the game would lose its fun, its chaos, its hilarity. So, how did he do? Let’s find out, as we wait for the bugle call….there it is, and we are off to the races once more, with WIN!
Sometimes, you just buy a game because of the name. You know nothing about it. But, the price is right, and it is called Butts in Space. I came across this card game on Etsy. I am starting to think that I should not be allowed on the internet unsupervised. Anyway, I added it as a favorite to come back to buy at a later date. Well that date came, but when I went back, the shop/publisher, The Dusty Tophat, was on a hiatus or vacation. I got an alert that they were back, but the game was no longer listed. Concerned, as you can imagine, I reached out to the shop to inquire what had happened to the card game I decided I needed. They told me that, “Etsy just removed the listing - we’ve reached out to Etsy so hopefully it gets relisted soon.” About 4 agonizing weeks later, it was relisted. I purchased it, packed it, and took on my family’s vacation. We played it three times in one night.
The lore to Butts in Space is fantastic. The Son read it out loud through fits of laughter.
“Oh no! Evil Butt has stolen all of the toilet paper in the universe and destroyed your toilet spaceship. Play as Bow Butt, Hairy Butt, Classy Butt, and Butt Butt as you try to gather more toilet paper than your friends before your spaceship is repaired.”
It goes on, butt… you get the point. So let’s take a look at how we go about getting toilet paper in Butts in Space.
BUTTS IN SPACE ON ETSY
Brian and I had a rough time with the recording website, but we still managed a fantastic conversation. He gave insight to working with an IP as a small designer, the differences with working with digital versus analog games, and we found out that we have a lot of the same tastes in games. Thanks for listening!
Well, it took me little time to hunt down an affordable copy of Chris Handy’s original Long Shot in the United States. I found it via BoardGameGeek Market. I had it delivered straight to work, and we played it the lunch hour of the day it arrived. It might be the shortest time from purchase to play ever!
In Long Shot, you and your opponents are gamblers at the race track vying to make the most of your money. You can make money by placing bets that pay out, buying horses, or just playing cards that get you more money.
I have mentioned it before many times on this show, Edward and I love racing games. One evening, he and I were at a local game shop looking through the used games section. We found two games that caught our eyes: Long Shot: The Dice Game and Elfenland. Long Shot caught our attention because it was designed by Chris Handy and published by Perplext, the same designer publisher duo behind Roland Wright. That was, well, a roll and write game that I impulsively bought for $5 at a convention and we played on vacation. It was a blast. So, getting this game was a no-brainer.
In Long Shot, you and your opponents are watching a horse race. You are betting on the horses, buying the horses, and trying to push your horses over the finish line. One great thing about this game in the workplace, it plays up to eight people! You could even play this over a video call, if you so chose.
In this episode, I am joined by Larry Saunders. I came across Larry when searching for Christmas presents for my coworkers. He has an Etsy shop where he makes various game related stickers. I reached out to him, and he told me that board games had helped him through a tough part of his life. Well, after almost two months of trying to get a night free together, Larry and I finally got to have our conversation. He has a great, but sad, story to tell. Thanks for listening.
A few of my past guests have suggested Cockroach Poker for a lunchtime game. I put it on my Christmas list a few years back. I never received it from friends, family, or Santa. One day while I was perusing the local game shop, there it was, hanging on a peg board. I was surprised that it was in a box that was barely four inches square. I don’t know what I was expecting, but not that. I immediately took it off the peg and purchased it for $11.99. Then, it sat unplayed for a month or so. It wasn’t until I was revisiting an old interview where the guest mentioned it that I remembered having bought it. I found it, took it to work, and learned to play Cockroach Poker.
In Cockroach Poker, you are trying to NOT collect sets of the creepy crawly critters. However, the first to collect four of a kind, well, they LOSE. They don’t win. You are trying to bluff your way to victory. Can you lie better to your friends than they can lie to you? Test out your thoughts with Jacques Zeimet’s Cockroach Poker.
My dad found Outfoxed on the clearance section of Target and got it as a gift to the family for Easter. We played it right away with my sister who was 4, my mom who is 10 times that and some change, and my dad who is a little younger than mom.
In outfoxed you work together as chickens trying to stop a fox from reaching the fox hole and escaping. WHY is the fox on the run? Because, the clever fox has stolen Mrs. Plumpert's pot pie and is high-tailing it to the foxhole! Can you and your chicken friends catch the sly fox? Or will the fox elude you?
At a recent board game day at the library, I was left as the odd man out. That did not bother me. I was happy to see so many people playing games. A fellow game nerd has his bag of games there. He said I could have a look, so I did. He had For Sale, a game that has been mentioned by a few guests and has come up in a few books. I sat down with it, opened the box, and was immediately distracted by the insert advertising the Bookshelf Series. Now, this was an old advertisement. It only listed games one through ten or twelve. There are now twenty-nine.
Anyway, I had heard of a few of these games, and recognized a few of the designers. Reiner Knizia had a few games in this collection, and I was curious how much they would be. Being in a library, I just walked next door to the computer lab to take a look. I bought three of his games: Gem Dealer, High Society, and Looting London. I got all three, shipped, for under $40.
What started off as learning a game that I wanted to play turned into a purchase of three games, and an episode about Reiner Knizia’s High Society.
In High Society, you and your coworkers are wealthy influencers in the 19th century. You are trying to bid for luxury items and multipliers of your wealth while avoiding misfortune. While you amass your luxurious possessions, it is imperative to keep an eye on your fortune. While the player with the most luxurious collection wins, that player must NOT have the lowest fortune left in hand. In other words, can you balance your wealth and opulence better than your coworkers, and be part of the High Society?
HIGH SOCIETY on BGG
I was talking with a fellow designer at a Protospiel about past Spiel des Jahres winners. About how it is sad that some of these games, these games that helped propel the board game hobby to the heights it is today, are no longer available. We then started looking at some of the games, and I couldn’t help purchasing a few. One that struck my interest was Andreas Seyfath’s Manhattan, 1994’s winner. He is better known for creating the 2002 game Puerto Rico. He and his wife won the 2006 Spiel des Jahres for Thurn and Taxis, which is also on my list to procure but it is quite, QUITE, expensive. Anyway, back to Manhattan, the subject of this episode. What caught my eye was the table presence. You are physically stacking buildings to build skyscrapers in the eponymous city.
In Manhattan, you and your opponents are fighting to construct skyscrapers in six different neighborhood districts of the island: Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Midtown, Downtown, Soho, and Wall Street. Points are scored in three ways: owner of each building (player with the top floor), control of each district (player controlling the majority of buildings in a district), and owner of the tallest building (player with top floor of the building with the most floors). When the game ends, the player with the most points wins. Can you outthink, outwit, and outbuild your opponents?
Manhattan on BGG
In this episode, I am joined by Freddie Carlini. He is the mastermind behind Mixtape Massacre, a highly thematic board game where you are the slasher hunting down victims to collect souvinirs. Freddie talks about how Mixtape Massacre is NOT TSA Friendly! It is a hilarious story. We also talk about running over zombies on a motorcycle, chunky dice being cool, and how dice trays save time and dice! All this and more coming up. Thanks for listening!
Get a copy of Mixtape Massacre!
Spencer Mohr joins me on this episode. His company, Dastardly Fun Entertainment, has put out two games a year, and I have played and enjoyed both. Their second game, Dastardly Drivers, was a finalist in the game design competition I sponsored last year. Thanks for listening.
Dastardly Fun Entertainment on The Game Crafter
My grandmother, who I called Mee-Maw, bought Michael Marra’s 13 Dead End Drive for me back in 1993 when it came out. I am not 100% sure why, but I am so glad she did. It is hard to believe that the game is 30 years old! That makes me even older.
Anyway, 13 Dead End Dr got a lot of playing when I was young. My little sister, brother, and I played a lot of Clue, and this gave us a new mystery to solve, a new toy to play with. 13 Dead End Drive feels like Clue and Mouse Trap had a baby.
In 13 Dead End Drive, rich Aunt Agatha has died with no related heirs. So, her 12 closest friends (and her cat) have gathered to claim her considerably large fortune. You and your opponents control a hand of the characters, vying to be rich. During the game, you are trying to knock off other1 characters to be the last one standing. Or, be the one featured above the fireplace when the detective arrives.
Winning Moves
John J. Wick, the game designer and RPG creator, joins me in this episode. He is the man behind CAT, a great RPG where you play a cat protecting your human from forces they cannot see. John and I talk about the usual stuff, and also his fun RPG's that can be played in a lunch hour. (Links below)
PLAY
CAT
**In early 2019, The Son and I were watching a lot of Watch It Played with Rodney Smith. One episode that caught my eye was Horrified, by Ravensberger. Then, for some reason, I forgot about it. It kept coming up on lists of games that are great to play in an hour. While attending a convention, I saw it at the flea market event and snatched it right up. I sat down that night and played it with a fellow game designer. We both enjoyed it.
In Horrified, you and your teammates are working together as characters right out of the Universal Monster movies, to rid the town of the monsters haunting the streets. Two to four monsters, of the seven available, are wandering around the streets terrorizing the villagers. You and your team must collect specific items that are scattered around the town. These items are then used to confront and defeat each different monster in a unique and specific way.
All this must be achieved before the monsters terrorize the locals too much or the Monster deck runs out. Do you think you and your friends have what it takes to stand your ground, defend the town, and save them from Frankenstein’s monster, Wolf Man, Dracula, Creature from the Black Lagoon, Invisible Man, or Mummy? Did the Son and I enjoy it after 3.5 years of waiting? How did it go over at the office? Thanks for listening!**
Corey Clark, founder of Blue Falcon Board Gaming, joins me to talk about his organization and what they do. He has one of the most original ways to get into gaming. We try to come up with a term for people that are not board game literate. He also has one of the more obscure hidden gem games that I feel like I must own. All of that an more. Thanks for listening!
Hidden Gem
When you think of the classic games, what comes to mind? Monopoly, Risk, Candyland, Chutes & Ladders, and of course Clue. It is unfortunate that Clue doesn’t get more respect in today’s board gaming community. The playtime is short. The rules are simple. And dammit, it is just plain fun! We had a copy of Clue when I was growing up. I am the oldest of three, and my sister, brother, and I would play Clue for hours. That is the best part about the game. You can just sort the cards out, draw a new set, and start again in about 3 minutes! This episode is long, as I cover a lot of versions and intersting facts about this amazing classic. Thanks for listening!
A month ago, I was quarantined to my bedroom with COVID. One night, I had a bout with insomnia. Then, it occurred to me! I had a few solo print and play games printed in my print and play box (link in the show notes) that were specifically designed for solo play. So, I got up, grabbed my D6’s and played 1472 The Lost Samurai. I did not win, but I was then encouraged to try 1972 The Lost Phantom. Again, I did not win. This time, I was encouraged to reach out to their designer Mike Heiman. He joins me today to talk about his journey in board gaming. He tells about his adventure creating his incredible solo print and play, USS Laffey: The Boat that wouldn’t sink, and his plans for other solo games in the XX72 franchise. All of the XX72 are available for free on Board Game Geek. All this and more are coming your way. Thanks for listening.
Print and Play Box
XX72 Games
As you faithful bridge-building listeners know, I am a huge fan of reading about board games. I then like to try and interview the author. This happened with The Beginner’s Board Game Bible and its author Ben Hoppe. In his fantastic book, (if you haven’t bought it yet, do it) he mentions games to help break people into this great hobby. Many of his game suggestions I had heard of, or already had played. Yet, one game nagged at me that I really wanted try. It was 1995’s Mystery of the Abbey. It was described as a next-level Clue. Clue with a little more. I was extremely interested, but then disappointed to learn that it was out of production. I then went out to look for a used copy. Prices fluctuated from $30-$60. As I was hunting down a copy, I came across one at a board game flea market for $35, and I pounced on it. Sadly, it sat on the Shelf of Shame for over a year. Finally, I got it to table at a library board game event.
In Mystery of the Abbey, you and your fellow players are visiting monks at the serene Abbey. The next morning, the body of Brother Adelmo is discovered at the foot of the cliffs. You group is asked by the Abbot to look into the mysterious death of the Brother, and investigate the Abbey and its inhabitants to discover who killed the beloved Brother Adelmo.
So, does Mystery of the Abbey do enough to separate itself from the classic game Clue? What it worth the hunting and searching for it? Did Ben Hoppe lead me astray? Can it be played in a lunch hour? Let’s find out!
I wish that I could say that I bought just a few games that came to my attention via Wil Wheaton’s Tabletop on YouTube, but that would be a lie. What I can say though, few games have come to my attention and immediately jumped into my top 5, if not top 3, like Champions of Midgard. Ole Steiness’s worker placement game made an immediate impact on me. I love worker placement games, yet there was something different about this game. Something about the way it played. Something about the interaction between players. Something about the overall feel of the game. It didn’t hurt that the episode featured an actual Viking playing the game. Well, ex-Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe. Close enough. I held off buying it as it was a play and win game at Geekway to the West, the local game convention here in St. Louis. So, I went to the convention, learned to play it, loved it, and hoped I would win the game. Sadly, I did not. Even sadder, Grey Fox Games, the St. Louis based game publisher that publishes Midgard in the US was at the convention, but they sold out. So, I went to my friendly local game shop and purchased Champions of Midgard. It has since seen plenty of table time.
In Champions of Midgard, you and your fellow players are Viking warriors who are vying for the spot of the recently deceased Jarl, leader of the clan. The creatures in area know of his passing and are coming to terrorize the village. You are trying to prove that you are the worthy successor by defeating these enemies and collecting glory (points). Over 8 rounds, you and your opponents will collect warrior dice, food, wood, get blessings, and fight enemies to prove once and for all, you are the Champion of Midgard!
Who doesn’t love a good pun? I know I do. Also, who doesn’t know some form of rummy? I believe most people that have a grandma have been exposed to rummy. My grandma, my aunt, my cousins and siblings, and I used to play rummy all the time. There were stenographer notebooks filled with scoring tallies. Not just scores for their games, but also tally marks for the wins. My grandma recently passed, and a scorebook was buried with her.
So, when Turn for the Wurst came out by Wam Wam Games, I had to give it a try. I had Phill Wamser on the show back in May 2022. This was his company’s first game. He and his brother Jake took the idea of rummy, and instead of making runs or sets of numbered cards from a standard deck of cards, you were trying to collect hot dog toppings to complete recipes. I was intrigued, of course, so I sat down, at lunch, to play Turn for the Wurst.
It is no secret that I love racing games. I have many racing games in my collection. I have talked about many racing games on this show. I love them! Whether I am racing cars, postal vehicles, boats, bikes, chariots, or even camels, I am drawn to a racing game like a moth to the flame. While perusing the used games section at the local Half-Priced Books, I saw Asger Harding Granerud’s cycling racing game, Flamme Rouge. The Son and I have wanted this game for some time. It goes in and out of production. So, I took the opportunity to purchase it when I could.
In Flamme Rouge, you are a team of cyclists trying to strategically and tactically maneuver your riders to victory playing cards from an ever depleting deck. Can you out-race your opponents?
I am very active with the public library systems here in St. Louis City and County. I have taken many courses through them online. I have taken the kids to events. Heck, I took my kids to every single St. Louis Public Library branch. That was 15 branches. A let me tell you, some of those buildings were absolutely stunning.
During the pandemic, I used the library to print off many print and play games that I downloaded. When the restrictions lifted, I found out that the public library system offered even more services. They had a recording room, 3D printers, plotters, and now, at one location, a Glowforge.
Anyway, I saw that there was going to be a presentation on making a board game. So, you know I signed up and went. There, I met Ana Gomez. She is the Creative Experience Specialist, and a board gamer. She encouraged me to do a presentation at the library on Board Game production. I then encouraged her to be a guest on my show.
She joins me in this episode to talk about her gaming habits and how to utilize your local library to feed your board gaming addiction. Thanks for listening.
A few months back, like six or more, I sponsored a design competition on past guest JT Smith’s The Game Crafter. The competition was to design a lunchtime game. It had to be playable in a lunch hour and appropriate for work. There were 77 entries! Of those, seven were selected to be finalists. Those seven were then shipped to me to playtest. I took all of these to work to play with my coworkers. I mean, that was literally the purpose of the competition.
So, with the help of 2 or 3 of my coworkers each day, we played all seven games. Some were instant successes requiring another play, hopefully with a different player count. Some were not so lucky. As a group, we narrowed down the finalists to the top three. In the end, we made the decision to award Locked Out by Little Rhombus Games as the winner.
In this episode, I am joined by René Uittenbogaard, the designer of Locked Out. We talk about the usual questions, but also about his game. He also had a lot of great game suggestions.
Stay tuned for future updates for the publishing of Locked Out by Bearded Board Games
Design Competition
Locked Out
A few months back, I reviewed a hilarious game about a group of cats on their ninth and final life. I then interviewed the man that handmade each copy of that game. Then, out of the blue, Colby Lippencott reached back out to me to inform me that his new game, Quest for the Trident, was available. I couldn’t resist. I had to try the latest from Lab Rats Board Games. I received the handmade, custom designed, wooden box with the familiar 3D printed components holding it together, three different decks of cars, and 3D printed tokens. Also included was a small expansion. Colby also informed me that he had the help of two students in his Game Design Class with the design of Quest for the Trident.
In Quest for the Trident, you and your opponents are trying to steal the Trident from the almighty god of the sea Posiedon himself. Why? Well, he has been angry with the humans and the people can no longer wait for him to be appeased. So, stealing his trident will take his power. All that is required is exploring the seas, obtaining the Tome of the Gods, taking it to Posiedon’s Palace, stealing the trident, and hiding it. In that order. Oh, and avoiding your fellow sailors who are attempting the same thing, but there is only one trident. And, this isn’t cooperative…
I took the game to work, sat down at lunch with a few coworkers, and set up Quest for the Trident, and set sail to steal a God’s most precious item.
Buy it Here
COUPON CODE for 10% off: EATLUNCH
I have mentioned a few times, like dozens probably, that The Son and I love to read books about board games at bedtime. I have also mentioned one such book many times, Family Games The 100 Best by Jeremy Lowder. Recently, I organized the first Protospiel St. Louis where we had over 40 designers come and show their game designs and over 50 playtesters come and play them. As part of the badge purchase, the store where we were holding the event offered 10% off purchases. So, I perused the store, and found Sid Sackson’s 1980 classic, Can’t Stop. What really drew me to it was that it was in the ding and dent section at an already low price. This was due to the box being really banged up (photo in the show notes). So, I could not turn it down with an additional 10% off. Can’t Stop was one of the 100 games from that book, designed by Sid Sackson, and was under $5. Needless to say, that game found its way into my game bag with all its packaging tape. The Son and I sat down to play it a few nights ago. He wanted to play a video game instead, but humored me. We ended up playing it twice in a row, and he didn’t bother with the video game!
7 Wonders is one of my favorite lunchtime games of all time. I have played it probably close to one-hundred times. I did a very long, 18-minute, podcast episode on it a long time ago. It was actually the third episode of the show. At the time, I covered all the expansions that I had, which was all of them except Babel. I still have not purchased Babel. No interest. But, the completionist in me is calling to procure it. I am not going to lie. After writing that sentence, I went and looked into buying Babel. It looks to be about $30, as it is not in production right now.
Anyway, this episode is to talk about the two newest expansions, Armada from 2018 and Edifice from 2023. I purchased Armada right around the time of the start of the pandemic. I was excited to have the time to learn it and then play it when we all went back to the office. 7 Wonders was one of our favorite games to play at lunch. Well, as you can guess, we never went back to the office. I changed jobs, as many of my former coworkers have done. Armada just sat on my shelf of expansion shame.
Earlier this year, Repos Games released Edifice. I immediately delved into finding out if it was compatible with my version of 7 Wonders. They released a second edition back in 2020 with new artwork. This changed the card backs, so you cannot combine the editions. When I found out that it was compatible, because there are no new cards (a rarity in 7 Wonders expansions). Then, for Lent, I gave up buying new games and expansions. Of course, Edifice was released at the start of Lent this year. So, I had to look at it on the shelf of the game shop everytime I went. I tried to limit how often I went to limit my temptation. Now, with the Easter holiday behind us, I went to Fortuna Games on Easter Monday, and made my first new purchase.
Luckily, I was also able to wrangle my gaming buddies into playing both expansions, in the same night. Was the wait for Armada (nearly 3 years) worth it? Was Edifice worth being the first new game since Easter? Answers are given, just keep listening.
In this episode, I am joined by designer James Cole. He designed and tested a game at work. His game, Thrown Under the Bus, is currently on Kickstarter. Give it a look. He also had some amazing game suggestions. Thanks for listening.
Thrown Under the Bus Kickstarter
Well, quite simply put, I am now obsessed with the Pandemic world. After a rough relationship at the start with the original base game, my love was rekindled with Rapid Response and Hot Zone, coincidentally during the COVID pandemic. As I have been working my way through the Pandemic expansions, I branched out, like a disease, and decided to try some of the other versions of the game. First up, I located, purchased, and played The Cure. That’s right, I played it relatively soon after purchasing it. Like within few days. That is simply unheard of, hence the reason I have a healthy Shelf of Shame. What drew me to The Cure is that it has its own expansion. Anytime a variation is successful enough to warrant its own expansion, I get curious. As I was trying to locate a copy for a respectable cost, I came across a new website that buys and sells used board games. This website has been a game changer for me. Anyway, back to Pandemic: The Cure. Let’s take a look at it and see if I should buy the expansion. (Spoiler: I have)
meeplove.de
A few years back, I bought a game of Kickstarter. It was designed by Adam Collins. I was shocked to know I designed a game and didn't know it. Turns out, there is another Adam Collins in the board game industry, the podcast market, and in a construction related day job. He joins me in this episode, with his business partner. We talk the usual, and get some great game recommendations. They also have a Kickstarter currently up at the time of this recording. Link below.
BOARD GAMES BUILD BRIDGES
Deadline on Kickstarter
I remember seeing Rodney Smith’s video for Pandemic: Rapid Response and knowing instantly, this was a game for me! Oddly, it was a Target exclusive. I had to wait a few months before it came out. I ordered it off the site as soon as I could. Then, as most games do, it sat unplayed for a few more months. Finally, March 20th, the son and I broke out the Kane Klenko, real-time, board game. In case you don't recognize that date, it was the start of the COVID lockdown. It just felt fitting. A few months later, I bought another Target exclusive Pandemic game, Hot Zone. Back to Rapid Response though.
In Pandemic: Rapid Response, natural disasters are popping up all over the globe. You and your team are on board the specially designed plane made by the Crisis Response Unit. You take on one of seven roles aboard the plane as you try to get desperately needed supplies to the cargo hold, fly the plane over the country, and drop off those life saving supplies. You must accomplish all this while keeping an eye on a sand timer. If you run out of time, you lose. Oh, and the timer is only 2 minutes. Don’t fret, you get to turn it over a few times, and more times if you are able to make progress. This is a chaotic game of trying to save humanity, and I am all in!
Buy it here! Pandemic: Rapid Response
In this episode, I am joined by author James Polczynski. I came across his book, A History of Mystery and Detective Games, and I had to read it. It turns out, James reads everything he can about board games, too! We talk about his book, the 3M Bookcase series, his meeting Sid Sackson, and Clint Eastwood westerns (?). We kept getting disconnected by the online site I use, and it made my mic sound funny. But, the episode is still great, as is his book. Board Games Build Bridges!
A History of Mystery and Detective Games 1889 to 1969
Charles created a game back in 1983 about stock car racing. Now, 40 years later, he and his son have finally produced it and brought it the world. Stock Car Racing Team Game is a fun, huge board, colorful, racing game for 2 to 6 players. This father-son duo have had a lifelong love for racing, and they want to share their love for it with you via their game.
Board games build bridges!
Get a copy here: https://stockcarracingteamgame.com/
You and your adventuring party are tired and thirsty from your day's fun. You find yourselves at the Red Dragon Inn for some much needed drinks, fun, and tale telling. In this game, you are seeking to get yor friends alcohol content over their fortitude, or steal all their gold in rounds of gambling. Last one sober, or last one with money is the winner. This is not a drinking game, rather a game about drinking. Board Games Build Bridges.
In this episode, I am joined by author Amanda Bridgeman who resides in the land down under. She wrote the book Pandemic: Patient Zero. Yes, that is a tie-in book to the award winning Matt Leacock board game of the same name. She talks about how she got involved in the project, the woes that COVID caused, among other things. She also talk about how she judges a game by the cover. More accurately, how the artwork is what draws her to a game.
Get the book here!
In this episode, Chelsea Schwartz joins me. She has an incredible job title of Hobby Marketing and Influencer Specialist at The OP. She and I have a lot of fun chatting about IP games. The Good ones. Some bad. We also discussed her love of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and my fondness for Dream Phone. Stay through the end for the final payoff for that tangent.
Her game: Bananya: The Card Game
I have never, and will never, hide my love of King of Tokyo. A short four years later, the sequel game was released. King of New York elevates its predecessor's gameplay. The character packs I talked about in the King of Tokyo episode are compatible with New York as well. This makes for a lot of fun characters and replayability.
King of Tokyo episode
Leave a message, question, or game suggestion.
podinbox.com/eatlunchandboardgame
In my house, we are huge fans of The Godfather trilogy. We have watched it twice in two years. When an ad banner came up to announce a new Godfather game, I clicked over to Target.com and bought it. It was an offer I couldn't refuse. Does this card game, by the same designer behind Bosk, hold up to the IP? Let's take a look.
Buy The Godfather: Last Family Standing here.
This will be a more unconventional episode of Eat Lunch and Board Game. I am joined this episode by Doreen DiCreccio from Mom’s Choice Awards. She and I talk about what the award is, how to get it, some past winners, and other goodies. This episode was recorded a bit out of order, and I put on display my editing skills. So, if things sound a bit weird, that is why. Also, this is our second attempt at recording this interview as an internet outage in my neighborhood derailed the first one. Doreen and I had a great time chatting, and I hope you enjoy the information she gives. Thanks for listening.
Fences Mom's Choice Award page
In this episode, author Mary Pilon joins me to talk about her amazing book, The Monopolists: Obsession, Fury, and the Scandal Behind the World's Favorite Board Game. It is one of my favorite books about board game history. Mary spent five years doing research on the history of Monopoly and its actual origins. Her book is simply amazing, and you should find it, read it, and enjoy it. We talk about the usual stuff, as well as receiving the original NES for Christmas, our shortcomings at chess, and her love for Bananagrams!
A quick note before we get into the episode, I did not know my microphone was recording awkwardly. I apologize for my sound. Don’t worry though, Mary sounds great. It is just my mic.
Thanks for listening.
You can (and should) grab a copy: https://www.marypilon.com/monopoly
In this episode, I take a look at the latest from Alan R. Moon and Ticket to Ride, San Francisco. I give a brief how-to, you can always catch a more in depth review of T2R on the original episode. I also talk about the nuances for this edition. Is it better than the last entry, Amsterdam? And what is up with the fan made add-on, Star Trek expansion? HERE
The Presidio thumb fight.
Thanks for listening.
You can find Amazon links to most of the games currently in production HERE. Anything bought using that link helps to support this show!
In this episode, I take a deeper dive into Corpse Cat. I recently interviewed Colby Lippincott from Lab Rat Games, who published this amazing game. From the start, you are drawn to this game by its wooden coffin box. Then, the game itself is very unforgiving and addicting. This game might be a bit morbid, but it is hilarious, too!
Pod In Box: https://podinbox.com/eatlunchandboardgame
Corpse Cat: https://tinyurl.com/d2s77jyc
Colby Lippincott Interview: https://www.eatlunchandboardgame.com/interview-with-game-producer-colby-lippincott/
In this episode, I talk about my new favorite dice game, Dualing Dice, by Mythica Gaming. Do not be swayed by its lack of rating on Board Game Geek, the game is very new. What should sway you is, I LOVE IT! Thanks for listening.
Buy the game here:
https://mythicagaming.com/product/dualing-dice/
Support the show and interact with other fans and the host:
https://podinbox.com/eatlunchandboardgame
In this episode, Colby Lippincott joins me to talk about making his company's game at his houe. It is the unforgiving game, Corpse Cat, by Labrat Games. You can, and should, pick up a copy from their Etsy store: LabRatGames
I put a call out to you, the listeners, for a game that I should try at lunch. Kev Con answered the call with the suggestion of Wits & Wagers. So, I tracked down a copy, took it to the office, and we played it. This is a trivia game with a twist. All the answers are numerical, and you aren't supposed to know the answer. That makes is all the more fun.
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In this episode, I am joined by Chris Backe. Like me, Chris does multiple things for the gaming community. We talk about the usual topics, as well as his two websites that he is working on to benefit the community: prereleasegames.com and tabletoppublishers.com These sites could help designers at all levels of the design process. More details about these sites in this episode. Thanks for listening!
I got up at 4:45am local time to interview Ole Steiness who lives 7 hours ahead of me in Denmark. He is the designer of one of my all time favorite games, Champions of Midgard. I will be doing an episode on this amazing work-placement game soon. Ole and I talk the usual, how the pandemic is the only thing that has kept him from Essen, and that his kids don't like playing his games. Why? They are amazing games! Well, they are also dad's work.
Notable games mentioned:
Chaos of the Old World
Conquest of the Empire
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Stratego is a classic 2-player capture the flag game that is almost 80 years old. It has had little to no changes from Jaques Johan Mogendorff's orignal game. There have been some newer versions, some of which I have procured. The standard IP treatment has ocurred. But in the end, Stratego remains a staple.
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When I read or hear about a certain game from more than two sources or more, there is usually good reason. Masterpiece kept coming up in my reading about board games, so I felt compelled to track it down. Masterpiece is also responsible for my meetin Norm of Board Game Museum. His video was the final piece that made me purchase a copy of the game. You are an art collector at an art auction trying to amass your fortune while avoiding the dreaded forgeries. The catch? No one knows the value of the paintings until they possess them!
Board Game Museum video: Masterpiece
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The Alpha is a surprisingly amazing game from a company typically known for making playing cards. This "Light Strategy Game" (as it says on the box) revolves around the prisoner's dilemma. This makes for fun playing and some trust issues.
Fan Made Traits Expansion
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In this episode, Jeffrey Hinebaugh, a lawyer by day and a board game book author by night, joins me to talk about his book, A Board Game Education (and its "sequel"), and how he reads probably as much as I do about board gaming. Like me as well, his day job has nothing to do with board games. I highly recommend getting his book(s), especially if you have a young one in your life that you are trying to get into the hobby. Thanks for listening!
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Krista DiGloria met by chance on Facebook. She is the moderator for a FB group in which I am a member. Turns out, we have a lot in common. She joins me this episode and we talk the usual stuff. But, we also talk about our significant others thinking we might have a board game addiction, the need for more shelf space, and our shared love of Button Shy Games.
Board Game Revolution Community (yes, I butchered it in the opening) Codex Naturalis Hanamikoji
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Alex Yager joins me in this episode. We talk about his history in the gaming community. His first Kickstarter was Steve Jackson's OGRE, way back in 2012. Alex talks about board gaming trifectas that he has accomplished that many others cannot claim. He also had some amazing game picks that I have never heard of, but now that I have, "Watch out wallet!"
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Now I know that I have a boardgame problem but I have never tested this space available in my car from buying two many games at once. Nick seal, well, he has. Twice! Hear this, and more, and this episode. He is part of the kantcon team, and gave me convention in Kansas City. If you are free the weekend of the convention, come join us!
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Sid Sackson's seminal game, Acquire, has made many lists of top games. It has been mentioned in almost every book on board gaming that I have read. I finally found the copy I was looking for, and then I finally played it. Was it worth the hype? Give this episode a listen.
Friend of the show, Norm Hastings, did a great video for Acquire. Watch it here.
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Craig Smith owns The Big Picture People. He and his team help companies to get their employees better engaged and to communicate better. Sounds like bridge building to me! His team does this by gamification. He is also the host of the Engaging Internal Comms (of which I will be a guest in July 2022), where he talks with people doing the same. In this episode, we talk about his obsession with Star Wars and the original action figures from the 70's. He even backed a book on Kickstarter that weighs about 11 pounds!
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In this episode, I talk with Phill Wamser. We met while running a booth together at Geekway to the West, the local board game convention in St. Louis. We decided to do the interview at Geekway one evening to get the ambient sounds of the convention. Phill is a game designer and youth pastor that uses games to help get the teenagers at his church to interact with each other in person, not just over the phone. Another patron of Geekway, and friend of the show, accidentally podcast-bombs the episode. It is hilarious! It is all a risk when recording at a convention.
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JT Smith joins me on this episode to talk the usual gaming questions. We also chat about all the amazing things that you can find and do on The Game Crafter. He also has a Crowd Sale coming (we talk about what that means in the episode) for his game Merc. Here is the link. Thanks for listening.
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I first heard Martin Gonzalvez talk on another board game podcast. He talked about the print and play scene in board gaming. From that point on, I have been hooked. Martin and I talked solo gaming, shelves of shame, and much more. Thanks for listening.
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Norm Hastings really loves older games. He found that there was no content for these older games. So, Norm fixed that problem by creating his own YouTube Channel, Board Game Museum. He has close to 300 vintage game reviews. I have watched too many already, as each one makes me want to locate and purchase the game he reviewed. He joins me on this episode to talk about what game he still pines to find, whether Officer Jones from Monopoly is a punk, and more. He might have even convinced me to start a channel reviewing Clue and its variations.
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In this episode, we might actually get a definitive answer on how to pronounce The Settlers of Catan. Pete tells amazing stories of his time in the industry. How he got into it, the games that inspired him, and how he got to be the CEO of Catan Studio. There are so many good games mentioned, that my wallet is already shaking. Thanks for listening.
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In this episode, John Garcia joins me to talk about his board game, Table Golf Association. It is an incredibly huge wooden hex-based dexterity game. You are trying to flick your slider across these hexes to literally sink your shot. We also talk about his league membership you can join to get an official t-shirt, post your creations, and find out about tournaments in your area. This awesome game is available on Kickstarter. You should consider backing it!
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Arwen Kathke, a fellow board gaming podcaster, stops by the show to answer the usual questions. Along the way, we discuss our ever growing, never decreasing shelves of shame, how the castle from Beauty and the beast had the best library (of course we would replace the books with games), Arwen stated her love of Belle’s dress, too. We also talk of old bad IP games. She mentioned a hard to find Ninja Turtles game (which I have placed in the show notes), and which series of escape rooms in a box is better: Unlock or Exit. Check it out.
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Guillotine came to my attention after reading The 100 Best Family Games. Luckily, our neighbor knew, loved, and had the game. She explained it to us, and we were instantly hooked. We decided her game needed an upgrade, so we had this 3D-printed guillotine made for her. It is an ideal game for the office. Thanks for listening.
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No Thanks! is a quick game that will stretch your brain and test your risk-taking versus aversion. There are only 33 cards in this game; less than a standard deck of cards. The joy, however, amazes me. My crew and I learned the game, and we immediately played it 4 times without getting up from the table. This game has a shockingly average BGG score of 7.1 with 22,000 ratings.
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Gabe Barrett joins me in this episode, all the way from Honduras. We talk about how the gaming landscape has changed over the pandemic. Gabe also talks about how he loves to game with his children. Throwing burritos at them, stacking Fuzzies, and mercilessly beating them at a Powerpuff Girl game. Through all this he still finds time to host the most influential board game podcasts: Board Game Design Lab
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Another game thought I procured at the suggestion of a guest. Simply Suspects is a definite game to play over a lunch hour. It takes about 15-20 minutes to play, is a riot, and you can reset and play again in less than a minute. I mention in the podcast a few "official" variants. The rules for these can be downloaded here.
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In this episode, I am joined by Game Sommelier Joan Moriarity. She works at the Toronto game cafe, Snakes & Lattes, where she tries to help patrons find a new game to enjoy. She has some fantastic thoughts and philosophies on gaming, why we should, and some off the beaten path recommendations! She is also the co-author of Your Move: What Games Teach Us About Life. It was a fast and fantastic read that led me to reach out to her.
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In this episode, I am joined by Daniel Jose Ruiz. I came across his article "Dragons are for White Kids with Money: On the Friction of Geekdom and Race" while reading a book about board gaming. Daniel is an author, podcaster, and more. Being a father of two young kids, we swapped ideas for games. Daniel brought Yogarrr to my attention, and I bought it immediately for my kids. We also discuss how we get through boring meetings, how a chiropractor could make a lot of money being at a convention, and much more.
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While the party game genre is not my forte, I do like them for their approachability, light ruleset, and quick playtime. In this episode, I look at four titles from Endless Games. Heck, there might even be a fifth bonus game.
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In this episode, I am joined by designer Dustin Dobson. He is the designer behind Skulls of Sedlec, which is quickly becoming one of my favorite 18-card games from Button Shy. We talk about his inspiration for the game, and how he has built a bridge through board games. If you haven't already, listen to my review of Skulls of Sedlec, and grab a copy! Here is a link to the pictures Dustin took of the actual Ossuary.
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Another fantastic game from Button Shy Games, this episode I look at Avignon: A Clash of Popes by John du Bois. Like other games from Button shy, you can get it off the Button Site or the PNP Arcade site. This innovative game introduces the mechanic of Push and Pull. You push cards toward your opponent or pull cards towards you. The strategy must adapt to the cards on the table, or your chances of being elected Pope diminish.
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Skulls of Sedlec, published by Button Shy Games, features 18 cards where you are stacking the skulls in the Sedlec Ossuary. This game is simply amazing and should be purchased from Button Shy's site or PNP Arcade. You choose which one better fits your budget.
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In this episode, author Ben Hoppe joins me. He wrote the book, The Beginner's Board Game Bible. It helps you to understand where to start with gaming, and how some great games to try out. We talk about taking games everywhere, the bonding that can be done over gaming, and finding a copy of Mystery of the Abbey. Ben has a fun quiz that will tell you what game would be best for you. Take it here. Post in the comments what game it determined was your game. For me, Catan. That was no shock. Thanks for listening!
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In this episode, James Takenaka of Hit Point Sales explains what a consolidator is, and what they can do for small and independent publishers. We also discuss the underappreciated game, Black Orchestra. The fad POGS even gets a mention!
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In this episode, Molly talks about an amazing fellowship she works with, The Horizons Fellowship. We also discuss her company's games, all of which are party games, but with a twist. You can get a free copy of Wing It's Print and Play on their site: Flying Leap Games.
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Restaurantrepreneur is a print-and-play roll-and-write from Ellie Dix of The Dark Imp. This game can be downloaded off The Dark Imp website for less than $4, and it should become a staple in your game collection. You only need to supply 3 standard dice. You certainly have these sitting around, and you should certainly have this game to accompany those lonely dice!
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In this episode, Ron RIch of Air Loom Games talks about his game on Kickstarter, New York Pizza Delivery. I personally played this game's prototype. It is a fun mash-up of simple mechanics to create an original game high in theme. Ron also has an Etsy store where he sells 3D printed game accessories such as box organizers and cardholders. We talk about getting more games than we have space, 3D printing, and how Ron created an infant bath toy that was stolen from him.
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James and I talk about how board gaming has helped him bond with his family. How he plays with his father, his brother, his children, and with his 103-year-old grandmother who still beats him on the regular. James is also the founder of Tin Robots Games, and they currently have a Kickstarter live: Hamsters vs. Hippos. James is the host of Board Game Binge, a 30-minute podcast where he interviews people from various facets of the industry.
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Mille Bornes is a classic that has no haters that I have met. Everyone that I have introduced it to has also enjoyed it. I believe this game would be a cornerstone to any game collection for work or home.
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Careers is a classic game from 1955. Yet, by today's standards, it is a very simple game mechanically. Where Careers stood out for me was in the "setting your own success formula" aspect. You decide what it takes to win the game. Every player sets their own end conditions. It is an interesting mechanic. I also mention the slightly, okay, completely offensive game, Careers for Girls. Yes, it is as bad as you think.
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In this episode, I was joined by a legend of the industry, Phil Orbanes. He started in the industry while in college and sold his first company. Then, he worked for Parker Brothers for over 10 years as a Senior Vice President. Lastly, he co-founded Winning Moves Games. Phil has also written many books about board games, Monopoly, and Parker Brothers. Phil is still active in the community, writing more books, and has amazing stories to tell. I was so excited that he agreed to come on the show. I hope that you enjoy this episode as much as I do. I encourage you to read his books as they detail the history of this great hobby.
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In what will shock no one, I was targeted by Facebook ads for a company called www.MeepleShirts.com. So, obviously, I clicked on the ad and went to spend some money. I bought the Coffee & Board Games shirt. While there, I also reached out to the owner of the site, Brian Welch. He joins me to talk about his gaming habits, taking games camping, and giving some love to Carcassonne.
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Julie Ahern, VP of Greenbrier Games, joined me in this episode. We talked about her nomadic lifestyle, the importance of a company's name, the beginnings of the convention scene opening up, and so much more.
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Sarah Atherton joined the show this episode all the way from London, England. She has a pop-up game shop, Get Your Game On, that she takes to markets. I love the idea! She has a real passion for games and getting people the "right game." She also talks of the woes of having to ship games, specifically if they get intercepted by a lady in pink slippers. It is a hilarious story!
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Brad is the Director of Midwest GameFest. He joined me on the show this episode to talk about his convention, his gaming habits, and how his mother plays a ruthless game of Ticket to Ride. She doesn't care if Brad is her son. It is all about the "W!" I forgot to ask Brad, but via email, he prefers to play as RED!
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In this episode, I allow yet ANOTHER Green Bay Packers fan onto the show. Erik Arneson, part owner of the Packers, and I talk about his fantastic book, How to Host a Game Night, the importance of keeping your game collection under control (or just getting a bigger wall), how some games are classics while others are a simple one-and-done, and of course, Battleball!
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I read a book about hosting game nights, and the next thing I know, I am hunting down a copy of a game from 2003 called Battleball: The Future of Football. This game is a riot. It is a fantastic 1v1 game where you are trying to be the first to score two touchdowns. The use of different sided dice is solid! It makes for a very interesting strategy, and it keeps a bit of luck, too! Sadly, it is not currently in production. Happily, there are consignment shops and eBay.
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Joe Slack, from Crazy Like a Box, returns to the show to talk about Expansions: how to market them differently than base games, the different types of expansions, and finding your niche. Joe has an expansion coming to Kickstarter on September 7, for his game Relics of Rajavahara.
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In this episode, Taran Kratz from Zeroic Games comes on to talk about his latest game and Kickstarter campaign for Thunder Rolls. We get off into the weeds when I have a mysterious sound from outside my window, and we discover that we would have been mortal enemies in college, as we went to rival Big Ten schools. Luckily, we met later in life. But, as I always say, "Board Games Build Bridges!"
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This episode features the designer of Dice Fight: Chicken Edition, one of the most played games in my collection (no lie). Aaron has self-published and self-made each and every one of the games that he has sold. He says that he running low, and he is not sure what he will do when he runs out of chicken buckets. That's right, the game comes in a fried chicken take-out bucket. So, I urge you to go to dicefight.net and order a copy before he runs out. While you are there, check out his video for his roll-and-write and read the bios of the 80 chickens from the game. Each and every chicken is unique in look, name, and bio. Aaron and I also talk about using games to teach, how to get your little ones to love gaming, and finally getting back together in person!
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Steven Lentz is the father of two board gamers in training. He wrote a book, The Guide to Board Gaming: Getting Past Candyland, in which he talks about how to get your little ones interested in board games. His "unlocking" idea is a keeper for sure! At the end of the episode, Steven was inexplicably dropped, that is why you do not hear him in the last few minutes. Anyway, we talk about games from our childhood, Mille Bornes, Battle Masters, and Scotland Yard.
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I reached out to a Facebook group to find other board gamers that play with their coworkers at lunch. I knew I couldn't be the only one. Matthew Miller, a third shift call center employee, responded and we had a great conversation. We had some technical difficulties with his microphone, but the material is fantastic. We talk about the advantages of gaming at work, especially if you can get your boss involved. Matt talks about how receptive and inviting the gaming community is and how it has helped him. I mention a game called Cat, an RPG where you play a cat trying to save its oblivious human from things the humans cannot see. It is $4.99 at DriveThruRPG for the 45 page PDF.
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Fellow board game reading nerd John-Michael Gariepy joins me in this episode. We talk about how there needs to be more books about board games that are not chess, his Kickstarter for his book Winning Streak, losing at Splendor, and then, John-Michael got lost. We laughed a lot during our conversation, but as usual, it is podcast GOLD! Contact for John-Michael: Popcorn Roulette DialD4Dm Winning Streak Book Say Hellow to Black Jack Podcast
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As you know from my other episodes, I read about board games a lot. While reading It's All a Game, I came across a designer that thought The Game of Life was too happy and needed to have decision-making and bad things happen, just like in real life. So, Chris Pender designed The Game of Real Life. A word of caution, this is not a family-friendly game. This has some adult content to it. Chris and I talk about how he came up the idea, how many he's made by hand, and his plans for a new game and new website. But, until he gets that new site up, you should go over to gameofreallife.com and pick yourself up a handmade copy of this very entertaining game!
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Aaron Wills is the creator of a game that comes in a take out bucket: Dice Fight Chicken Edition
www.DiceFight.net
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In this episode, Chris and I talk about his design contest, his AMAZING game In Vino Morte, and a strange game called The Farming Game, that I now feel the urge to track down.
In Vino Morte on PNP Arcade 2021 Design Contest - Submit a game idea or to be a judge!
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In this episode, Dave Eng joins me and we talk about our shelves of shame and game-based learning. Dave's website, UniversityXP is a wealth of information. It has links to his blog, videos, research, articles, and his own podcast.
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Like chaos? Like Wolfgang Kramer? Well, the latest iteration of his 1989 classic Midnight Party, called Escape from Hidden Castle, is the subject of this episode. It is quick and easy to teach, learn, and play.
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In this episode, I interview the "Average" part of Average Joe's podcast and Average Joe's Game Shop. Tom and I get off topic as usual. We talk about 3-legged cats, a bridge to Sweden, making a cross-country drive, and even some boardgaming!
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Wolfgang Kramer's Heimlich & Co. is a great twist on hidden information, social deduction games. It won the Spiel des Jahres back in 1986, and it recently got a facelift by Amigo Games. This is one you should check out!
James Bond (and Austin Powers) Standees
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This episode takes a look at Matt Leacock's Trilogy of Fobidden Games: Forbidden Island, Forbidden Desert, and Forbidden Sky. Each builds on its predecessors, has its own merits, but all are great fun for a lunch hour.
3D Desert Storm Tile
Variable Island Layouts (I can no longer find the desert ones, and I lost my file of them when my external hard drive took a nose dive off my desk thanks to the chaotic kitten.)
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When I was first nurturing my collection, Machi Koro came up on many lists, as a game that I would like. So, I bought it, and I have played it many times since. This is a staple in my collection, has had its fair share of expansions and alternate releases, and is an evergreen delight.
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Adrian is the founder of Cockblock Studios. He and I met when I agreed to review his game, Turducken. It is currently live on Kickstarter as of April 26, 2021. He and I talk about his gaming habits, the games he has created, and some aspects of board game design along with not eating an oven and not using D-Con. What can I say? We got a little off topic.
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In this episode, I talk with Ellie Dix from The Dark Imp. This is my first transatlantic interview! I came across Ellie's great book, The Board Game Family, at my local library. She talks about getting your kids and family to game together, a funny game called Murder, the importance of just having a deck of cards are you at all time, and more!
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What was the first game you backed on Kickstarter? Mine was Scuttle! It opened my eyes to Kickstarter, and it helped me delve deeper into this wonderful hobby. Scuttle! was followed by Ninjitsu! which was then followed by Brains! These three games form the Treasure Hunters Trilogy by Peter C. Heyward and Jellybean Games. All are great fun and easy to fit into a lunch 15 minutes.
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Sara Beauvais joins the show this episode. She is the artist behind one of my favorite games, Universal Rule! She has a website: http://thefairycircle.com/ where you can reach out to her, or see some of her artwork. We talk about how her daughter likes to retheme games to utilize bunnies, the fear of a game going to "the attic," and a childhood game that I am trying to locate: The Garden Game.
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In this episode, Aaron and I talk about oatmeal cookies, air fryers versus deep fryers, and maybe even some board games! Aaron and his family are behind AnSR games which made Drop Racers, Ch35s, and more!
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In this episode, Joe Slack of Board Game Design Course (among many other things) drops by to talk lunch time games. Joe is also an author of three great books (two fo which I can vouch for, I need to read his second book) and he has a fourth one in the queue. Joe maintains a fantastic email list for board game designers, and you can (and should) sign up here at https://boardgamedesigncourse.com/bgdc/
I want to thank Joe again, and I look forward to his future books and games!
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In this episode, Drop Racers and Drop Racers Battle are the focus. These games were designed by a young man (like less than 10 years old). They are dexterity games where you are flicking your car to collect drops from the table to either score points, or try to end the game. Both can be bought from: http://www.ansr-entertainments.com/ They are an absolute delight to play with adults and children alike.
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In this episode, I look at three more small roll and write games: QWIXX, QWINTO, & RIPPLE RUSH. Each one is terrific and should be added to your collection. These three have seen plenty of table time, and they did not dent the wallet…too bad. Give me a roll and write that I should try next!
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In this interview, fellow game nerd and cross stitch designer Katie Pierce joins the show. She is the Etsy shop owner of Komodo Stitches. I have personally bought two so far, and look forward to getting a third. Katie talks about how she got into gaming, drops a couple of great games that you should check out, and says C-A-T-A-N, well, you will just have to give it a listen.
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Bang! is one of the few social deduction games that I find enjoyable. The act of deceiving your friends while at the same time trying to get certain ones to believe you, makes this game a blast every time we play it.
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In this episode John Kohn joins the show. He is a prolific Print and Play creator. I have backed many of his games on Kickstarter, and I look forward to backing many more. He can be reached at johnhkohn2016@gmail.com
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In 2018, Erin Dean interviewed over 50 game designers, and compiled all the interviews into a smash success Kickstarter campaign. The result, For the Love of Board Games! This fantastic book became the bedtime story I read to The Son each night. It has started us down a great tradition of reading about board games and game designers. I highly recommend picking up a copy from Erin. If interested, the email address is loveofboardgames@gmail.com Shoot her an email, and get your copy!
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In this episode, Adam looks at the "Clever Trilogy" by Wolfgang Warsch These games are: That's Pretty Clever, Twice as Clever, and Clever Cubed. These are fantastic roll and write games that elevates the game of Yahtzee. No more waiting on everyone else to roll on their turn while you do NOTHING. You are invested in every turn. Each one is colorful with its scorepad and dice. Each is video conferencing friendly. Each one is very affordable.
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In this episdoe, Chip Beauvais joins the show. He is the creator of Universal Rule and Smoke & Mirrors, both available on PnPArcade.com. Chip talks about his new game Jackpot Payout that is going to hit Kickstarter later this year, as well as some hidden gem games that you should check out.
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Downforce by Wolfgang Kramer is the focus of this episode. Adam covers the game, the two expansion tracks, and talks about combining Downforce with Monopoly Gamer Mario Kart edition.
Feel free to get sucked in this thread about Mario Kart: https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/2056934/mario-kart-downforce-variation
Share your pics or rule variations!
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This episode covers TWO fantastic dexterity games by Haba: Rhino Hero and the sequel Rhino Hero: Super Battle. What started out as a show and tell at my office has turned into a regular engineering exercise.
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In this episode, Adam reviews Universal Rule by Chip Beauvais and published by Button Shy Games. It is also available as a print and play on PnPArcade.com. This is a wonderful 18-card 4x game that plays in less than a lunch hour. Believe it! Thanks for listening, and keep building those bridges!
Universal Rule on PnP Arcade
Universal Rule on Button Shy Games
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In this interview, the Chief Creative Officer of Fireside Games, Justin De Witt joins Adam on the podcast. He is the creator, and artist, behind the fantastic cooperative board game Castle Panic! Justin and Adam talk about board gaming, how Castle Panic got on Wil Wheaton's Tabletop, how Justin got to design Star Trek Panic, and more! Thanks for listening, and keep building those bridges!
www.firesidegames.com
Fireside Games Facebook Page
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In this episode, Adam talks about Alan R. Moon's Ticket to Ride, two expansions, 3 city editions, a PNP version, and First Journey. This is a must have in any office colletion. Come listen and find out why!
Stay at Home Edition is a free print and play that can be found at that link!
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In this episode, Adam looks at Carcassonne, the classic Spiel des Jahres winning tile-laying game by Claus-Jurgen Wrede. Adam talks about the game and 9 mini-expansions!
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In this episode, I look at Justin De Witt's cooperative castle defense game, Castle Panic!, its three full expansions, and multiple promos, This is my personal favorite co-op game. It is simple, easy to get to the table, and has been enjoyed many times by many people. Justin will be a guest later this year!
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In this episiode, Adam interviews fellow board game podcaster, Joe Hamerly of Average Joe's Gaming Podcast. They discuss lunchtime gaming, go to games, and more. This is also the debut of more music from The Son.
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In this episode, Adam talks about the game that started all of this lunch time gaming fun, Catan. He also discusses the scenarios: Helpers of Catan, Oil Springs, Frenemies, Santa Claus/Easter Bunny, and Global Warming.
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This episode features original music by my 8 year old. I asked him for a theme song, and he made it for me on Garage Band. Also, I discuss 7 Wonders, 2 expanions, and some extras. This is another must-have in your office playing library.
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In this episode, I discuss the king of the mountain, Yahtzee style, kaiju monster mayhem game, King of Tokyo. I look at the base game, its two expansions, and the subsequent four monster packs. This is a great game to start a gaming group in your office! Board Games Build Bridges!
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Welcome to Eat Lunch and Board Game! I am Adam Collins and about 5 years ago, I started playing board games with my coworkers during our lunch hour. We started out playing only Catan, and it was a first-come, first-seated game. We expanded to 5/6 player extension. Then, we had to add a second board. New games were being brought in. People from other divisions joined us. Pretty soon, we had players from all over the building, and we were playing anything that was brought in. I started noticing that some games were better for lunch hours than others. I started catering to peoples’ needs. They only wanted to play a short game so they could leave early. Other people wanted to play longer games, so we started a game night after hours. I found that I searched my local game shop for games that fit a certain set of criteria: Time to Explain to Newcomers, Component Quality, Replayability, Bang for the Buck, and above all Lunchtime Potential. I decided to start this podcast to help you start a gaming group at your office, and help you find games to play with your coworkers based on your, and their, needs.
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