The Board Game Shenanigans Podcast: Recent Episodes
Bob Troszok
Welcome to The Board Game Shenanigans Podcast. Bob and Natasha are a couple of board game enthusiasts who love talking all things board game related, offering perspective and exploring a variety of board game related topics.
This week Bob and Natasha finish their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their numbers 10 through 1. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha continue their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their numbers 20 through 11. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha continue their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their numbers 30 through 21. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha continue their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their numbers 40 through 31. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha continue their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their numbers 50 through 41. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha continue their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their numbers 60 through 51. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha continue their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their number 70 through 61. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha continue their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their number 80 through 71. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha continue their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their number 90 through 81. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha start their top 100 games of all time. Last year the did a combined list, this year they are doing their own lists. This week they will be sharing their number 100 through 91. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha share their top 10 games of 2023. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review The Fox Experiment and Forrest Shuffle. The Fox Experiment is Elizabeth Hargrave’s newest game about breeding Fox’s. Forrest Shuffle is a nice little card game that has some meat on it. Then Bob and Natasha discuss their highlights of 2023! Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Apiary, a new Stonemaier game. This is a worker placement game about sentient bees. Then Natasha shares her top ten tile laying games. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Scholars of the South Tigris. The 2nd game in the South Tigris Series by Garphill games, a worker placement dice game about translating scrolls. Then they talk about game recommendations and how they make them. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Sky Team and Sea Salt and Paper. Sky Team is a cooperative 2 player only game about landing a plane. Sea Salt and Paper is a lovely looking small card game but is it as good as it looks? Then they talk about playing games online and what they like in online gaming. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha talk Ticket to Ride Legacy: Legends of the West. Don’t worry, there are no spoilers. They tell you what they think of this new legacy game and who they would recommend it to. Then Natasha tries to deinfluence you and talk you out of buying lots of games. She gives you her best tips on how to play games without buying them. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha talk about Penny Black and Key to the Kingdom. Penny Black is a tile laying drafting game about stamp collecting. Key to the Kingdom is a restoration of the 1990 classic game, a kids adventure game. Then they talk about board game inserts and what they look for when organizing their games. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha talk to the designers of a new game coming to kickstarter next year called Galactic Cruise. They tell us all about designing the game, working with the artist Ian O’Tool, and getting the game ready for Kickstarter. They tell us about how they got into hobby board games and what their favorite game is. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Moon River and Bonsai. They are both thematic tile laying games but play very differently. In Moon River you will lay out landscape tiles similar to Kingdominio. Bonsai is all about building a beautiful bonsai tree. Then they talk about how they determine what games they bring to game night. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Abomination: The Heir of Frankenstein and Diced Veggies. Abomination: The Heir of Frankenstein is a very thematic game about building Frankenstein's monster. Diced Veggies is a little family weight set collection dice game. Then Bob and Natasha talk about board games as investments. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
The week Natasha and Bob review Sagrada and Sagrada Artisans. Sagrada is a popular dice drafting puzzle game and Sagradra Artisans is a new legacy game built off the original rules of Sagrada except that instead of putting the dice onto your board you color in the space with colored pencils. For the discussion topic they talk about competitiveness. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review 3 Ring Circus and Junk Drawer. 3 Ring Circus is Divir’s new gorgeous board game about putting on a circus. Junk Drawer is a new light bingo style polyomino game that would be great for the whole family. Then Bob and Natasha answer some questions. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
The week Natasha and Bob review World Wonders, a new tile laying drafting game about building all of the world's wonders. Then Natasha gets even more off her chest as they talk through Natasha’s top 10 most toxic traits in the boardgaming community. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
The week Natasha and Bob review Wild Tiled West, a new polyomino drafting game set in a cutesy wild west theme. Then Natasha gets a lot off her chest as they talk through Natasha’s top 10 most toxic traits in the board gaming community.
This week Bob and Natasha review Fit to Print and Splendor Duel. Fit to Print is a new real time tile laying game about making a newspaper. Splendor Duel is a new version of Splendor but only for 2. Then they talk about Natasha’s experience at the Dice Tower Retreat. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha are reviewing After Us and Expeditions. After Us is a deck building game were you are arranging your cards next to each other create completed frames. These completed frames will provide you with resources and other fun benefits. They are also reviewing the new Stonemaier game Expeditions, the sequel to Scythe which both Natasha and Bob love. Will they love this one as well? And finally in the discussion topic they are discussing board game challenges, more specifically the 10 x 10 challenge. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Dubious and Cursed Court. Dubious is a party game where you try to get the other player’s to guess your occupation and secret but you don’t want everyone to get it right. Cursed Court is a bluffing betting game.
Then Bob and Natash talk all about games of their childhoods. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Super Mega Lucky Box and Between Two Castles of Mad King Ludwig. Super Mega Lucky Box is a fun light roll and write. Between Two Castles of Mad King Ludwig is like Between Two Cities but set in the world of The Castle of Mad King Ludwig. Then Bob tells us his top 10 Cooperative games. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha are talking all about D&D. They are joined by a special guest, Natasha’s daughter Parker who is 15 and a big fan of D&D. She talks about playing and running her own D&D campaign and what strategies she uses to make sure everyone is having fun. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha talk about Phantom Ink and Las Vegas. Phantom Ink is a team based party game where both teams are competing to guess the word first. Las Vegas is a light classic dice game that will lead to a lot of epic moments. Then they discuss player interaction in board games and how much they like in their plays. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha talk all about Gen Con. They discuss what new games they got to play, what they thought of the games, and what they liked and disliked about the con. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Dorfromantik: The Board Game and Skull. Dorfromantik: The Board Game just won the Spiel des Jahres this year and is based on a popular video game. Skull is a light party style bluffing game that is quick to play. Then Natasha gives us her top ten games she is looking forward to checking out at GenCon 2023. What hot new games are you excited about? Let us if you are going to GenCon, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Concordia and Shake That City. Concordia is a well loved classic Euro game, but is it a must have for new gamers? Shake That City is a light bingo style game with some good decisions. Then Bob gives us his top ten games he is looking forward to checking out at GenCon 2023. What hot new games are you excited about? Let us if you are going to GenCon, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Food Chain Magnate and The Finest Fish. Food Chain Magnate is an older title that is beloved by its fans, listen to find out if Bob is a fan. The Finest Fish is on the opposite end of the spectrum, a newer light family game. Then Natasha talks about her experience at Dice Tower East, what games she played and what she thought of the con. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha discuss Wandering Towers and Camel Up. Wandering Towers is a newer title from Capstone Games which is bit lighter than some of their recent titles. After that they discuss the Spiel winner Camel Up. While this looks like a racing game, it is more of a betting game. Listen to find out what they think of these titles. And then in the discussion topic, Bob and Natasha finish their discussion on board game mechanics. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha discuss the Origins Game Fair. They talk about what they thought of the con, what they thought of the vendors, and what board games they played. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha discuss Aquatica and Lost Code. Aquatica is a beautiful engine building game with some familiar mechanics. The Lost Code is a deduction style game that even peaks Bob’s interest. They then continue discussing popular board game mechanics. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha discuss Challengers! and Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy. Challengers! was nominated for the Spiel des Jahres, Connoisseur-gamer Game of the Year. Eclipse is an older popular 4X game, is it worth looking into this new version? They then continue discussing popular board game mechanics. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Trailblazers and Fiction. Trailblazers is a light tile laying game about building hiking, biking or canoeing paths. Fiction is a wordle game but the clue giver lies to you about one letter. They also take a look at common mechanics in games, they define the mechanics and talk about what games use those mechanics well. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha are once again joined by Adin who is going to give us his top 10 list of heavy euro games. If you like challenging heavy euros then check out this list for some good games, if you don’t like your games to be punishing then check out this list for games you will want to avoid. Bob and Natasha also review Golem, a game liked by all 3 of them even though it's not as punishing of a game. Let us know what you think, send us an email at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Gaia Project and discuss heavy Euros. They have a special guest, Adin, who is a big fan of heavy Euros that feel very punishing. Do you like to feel challenged when playing board games? Adin does, and this week he is going to tell us how he defines a heavy Euro. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha discuss roll and write games and then review Metro X and Crusaders: Thy Will Be Done. Metro X is a route building roll and write game that offers a lot of tension and decisions. Crusaders: Thy Will Be Done is a lighter Euro game with a personal mancala mechanic. Then Natasha tells us her top 10 roll and write games. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha discuss Chocolate Factory, Beer & Bread, and Curious Cargo. Chocolate Factory is an underrated favorite of Bob’s, but did Natasha like it as much? Beer & Bread is a new 2 player game and Natasha compares it to another 2 player only game call Curious Cargo made by the same publisher. They both were great productions, but what one did she like best? Then they discuss how their first experience playing a game influences their opinion and shapes their favorite games list. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha discuss their top 10 underrated games. They talk about games that they love but are not as popular or don’t get talked about very much. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Darwin’s Journey and Stuffed Fables. Darwin’s Journey is a heavy worker placement game that takes you on a journey with Charles Darwin through the Galapagos Islands. Stuffed Fables is a family adventure story telling game about a young child and their brave stuffies fighting an evil mastermind. Then they discuss the Board Game Geek Golden Geek award nominated games. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha reviewed Bitoku and Planet B. Bitoku is a gorgeous worker placement, hand management game with some set collection and contract fulfillment. Planet B is a worker placement election game with a fun, quirky, and a little dark theme. Then they answer a listener’s question about what hobbies outside of board games they like. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
Are you new to the boardgaming hobby? This might just be the episode for you! This week Bob and Natasha are reviewing one of the hottest new games to come out this year. Earth is a tableau, engine building card game, you could even call tile (well.. card) placement. You might have heard it compared to Wingspan, but is it really that good? Then they list their top 5 Spiel des Jahres winners. The Spiel des Jahres award goes to great family weight games that are easy to learn and so much fun to play. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha are joined by Bob’s wife Ashley to review Discover Lands Unknown and Revive. Discover Lands Unknown is an exploration campaign game that Bob and Ashley played through together. Revive is a hot new game just to hit the shelves. It's a civilization like game with some unique hand management and player boards that are pretty overwhelming at first glance. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha are reviewing Coimbra and The Golden Ticket Game. Coimbra is a favorite of theirs and is a colorful dice drafting game with tracks. Then Bob talks about playing The Golden Ticket Game with his family, a fun surprise where the theme makes the game. Then Bob and Natasha discuss how they get rid of games in their collection, how do games get cut out? Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha are reviewing Heat Pedal to the Metal and Summoner Wars (Second Edition) Looking for a fun quick racing game that moves at a good pace? Then you will probably really like Heat Pedal to the Metal. Summoner Wars is a head to head 2 player only combat game where you are trying to take out your opponent's Summoner. Then Bob and Natasha discuss how they decide what games to purchase and the thought process that goes with it. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha are reviewing Starship Captains and Dinner in Paris. If you are a fan of Star Trek you might like this fairly light game about flying around space and completing missions. Dinner in Paris sounds delightful, but don’t let it fool you, it's a mean one. They wrap up the show talking about their top 5 really popular games that they just don’t like and can’t understand why they are so popular. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Natasha tries to get Bob on board with the 9th Castle of Burgundy expansion, The Team Game. Then they talk about both the Dune Imperium expansions, the Rise of Ix and Immortality and are they worth checking out? They also review a new small box hidden gem called Village Rails, they swear it's not a train game, don’t let the box cover turn you away! They end the show with some questions. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha are reviewing Comic Hunters and Endeavor: Age of Sail. Comic Hunters is a fun drafting set collection game with a Marvel superhero comic theme. Endeavor: Age of Sail is a big worker placement game that is played in 60-90 minutes however it is ruined by its colonization theme. Then they play Name the Game, a new game of 20 questions to guess the game. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha are joined by Natasha’s son Max to talk about Space Base and a new game called Bad Company. Space Base is a dice game with card drafting. Bad Company is getting a lot of buzz about being a Space Base killer. Is Bad Company going to replace Space Base? Is it really that good? They also talk about Board Game Geek, how they like to use the website and how Brass Burmingham is now the number 1 game on Board Game Geek. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha talk expansions! Can you even enjoy a game without the expansion? Should you pick up an expansion when you pick up a game? If you love the game, are the expansions a must buy? But first they review a new game called Encyclopedia and an older one called Elysium. Is Encycylopedia’s game play as good as it looks? Because that artwork is gorgeous! Is Elysium still good even though it looks a little dated? The artwork on the cards is great, but the board is pretty bland. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review Vladimír Suchý’s newest game Woodcraft, a game where you play as forest people crafting wood and trying to have the best workshop. It has a much lighter and more playful look then the rest of his games, is the gameplay lighter as well?
Next Bob talks about a popular drafting game called It's a Wonderful World. A game that just doesn’t look like what you would expect. Then Bob lets out a little steam as they playfully discuss all the things that annoy them in the board game hobby. Let us know what you think, email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha review 2 great family weight games. First Empire is a fun dice rolling area control game where you get to move up tracks. Orichalcum describes itself as a short 4X game, it's got some familiar mechanics like drafting and tile laying, but the ease of teach and play make it a great game for anyone! Then they talk about their favorite board game accessories! Email us at boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com and let us know what your favorite board game accessory is and we can add it to our list!
This week Natasha and Bob talk all about the Dice Tower Boardgaming cruise. They never considered a cruise before, but this one has the famous Dice Tower board game library on it, was it worth it? Find out if the cruise was as fun as it sounds! But first Bob finally gets to play the infamous big box game Foundations of Rome and he lets us know if it's worth picking up -literally, is it worth lifting it off the shelf and bringing it to the table? Then they talk about Mille Fiori - a Natasha game if there ever was one, but does it win her over?
This week Natasha and Bob are back to their regular show. They review Wayfarers of the South Tigris (2022), a game that hit both of the top 10 games of 2022, do you think you will like it as much as they did? Then they discuss a popular oldie, Kingsburg. Does it hold up when you compare it to games that come out now? Finally they have a tongue and cheek discussion about what it takes to be considered a real boardgamer. Is listening to a podcast about boardgames enough to make you a real boardgamer?
Welcome to 2023 and boy are there a lot of games to look forward to this year. In this episode Bob and Natasha talk about a new straight deduction that hit Natasha’s Top 10 games of 2022. Then they share their top 10 most anticipated games of 2023! It's easy to get excited about this year looking at this list!! Let us know what games you are most looking forward to playing this year by emailing boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
Natasha’s most anticipated games of 2023
- Trailblazers (2023)
- Scholars of the South Tigris (2023)
- Age of Rome (2023)
- The Fox Experiment (2023)
- Race to the Raft (2023)
- Unlock! Kids: Stories From the Past (2023)
- Pampero (2023)
- Last Light (2023)
- Seed (2023)
- Maple Valley (2023)
Bob’s most anticipated games of 2023
- Anunnaki: Dawn of the Gods
- Scholars of the South Tigris (2023)
- Darwin's Journey
- Unconscious Mind
- Arydia: The Paths We Dare Tread
- Sleeping Gods: Distant Skies
- Voidfall
- Hegemony: Lead Your Class to Victory
- I C E
- Septima
This week Bob and Natasha talk about all the games they played this year. Looking over their stats and discussing the benefits and nerdiness of tracking played games. Does playing Exit: The Game – Advent Calendar: The Mystery of the Ice Cave count as 1 game or 24? Then they share their top 10 games of 2022. It was such a great year of board games and it was really hard to make our top 10!! Let us know what were your favorite games of 2022 by emailing boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week we are finally going to share with you The Board Game Shenanigans top ten games of all time!! But first Bob reviews a new game called Rise. Do you like going up tracks that allow you to move up other tracks that let you go up more tracks? Then Natasha talks about another one of her favorite family games, Potion Explosion. Candy Crush the board game but better! Let us know what you think of our top ten list by emailing boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Natasha talks about her experience with Exit: The Game – Advent Calendar: The Mystery of the Ice Cave. Is this a daily escape room game worth checking out? Then Bob and Natasha review a couple older games. First The Quest for El Dorado, a deck building game about racing through the South American Jungle. Then a small quick Oink game called Startups which is all about trying to collect the most company shares. Don’t like games about collecting shares? Don’t worry you still might like this 20 min game! Then they wrap up the show talking about their top 100 games of all time, this week with the 20-11 games.
Bob and Natasha are back this week doing the Board Game Shenanigans Top 100 Games of all time. But first we are joined by Bob’s wife Ashley to review Sleeping Gods, an exploration style game with a cohesive storyline and tons to explore. They also discuss if Ashley is a real boardgamer and why she doesn't like going to conventions and other board gaming events. Then they look at Wonderlands War, an area control bag building push your luck game with a fun theme and beautiful artwork.
This week Natasha and Bob review Endless Winter: Paleoamericans, an area control, deck building game set in the prehistoric times with some of the best artwork. They also take a look at a new party game called Green Team Wins, where the goal is to always be on the green team. Is it as good as some of the other most recent party games? Is Endless Winter the next Lost Ruins of Arnak? Listen and find out! Then they are back with the Board Game Shenanigans Top 100 Games of all Time.
Bob and Natasha are back this week doing the Board Game Shenanigans Top 100 Games of all time. But first they review Prodigal’s Club, a really fun and unique worker placement game where you are trying to lose as much wealth and reputation as you can before the end of the game and stop Aunt Beatrice from talking you up to the community! Then they look at Downtown Farmer’s Market, a cute little tile drafting game where you pick what you are going to score prior to drafting. Natasha also talks about playing Unlock!: Heroic Adventures.
Bob and Natasha are back this week doing the Board Game Shenanigans top 100 games all time. But before they get into that, Bob talks about his upcoming appearance on his company's radio show, where he gets to recommend some games for the holiday season. For the reviews this week, the first game they look at is Mosaic: A Story of Civilization. This is a large Kickstarter from Forbidden Games. It is a civilization game that has quite a bit going on with it. After that they look at the new release from the designers that did Calico and Cascadia, Verdant. This is about potting house plants and making your home the most aesthetically appealing house you can.
This week, Natasha starts off the show with talking about her experience playing the new board game edition of Unlock as she has just played them with her son. Next up are the reviews, first they discuss the new iteration of the Pandemic system, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. This gives off the feels of pandemic but still manages to make the system seem fresh. After that they review Tenpenny Parks. This is game all about building your theme park, it has a unique way of placing your tiles as they can not touch each others. This game can be very tight with money so make sure you are generating income turn to turn. And finally in this episode they continue on with The Board Game Shenanigans Top 100 games of all time. This week 70 through 61.
In this week's episode Bob and Natasha review the newest game from Alexander Pfister, well kinda. Skymines, for the most part, is a reprint of the award winning 2015 game, Mombasa. There is a couple of changes within the game, the biggest one being theme, but most of the rules are the same. Next up Natasha talks about a newer roll and write, Long Shot: The Dice Game. Will she like it better than Ready, Set, Bet? And finally in the discussion topic, the gang continues with The Board Game Shenanigans Top 100 games of all time, numbers 80 through 71.
In this week's episode Bob and Natasha look at a couple of games. The first up is Oath: Chronicles of Empire and Exile. This 2021 release created some interesting opinions when it was first released. It definitely feels like a game designed for a group who enjoys exploring a game to the fullest. Next up Natasha talks about Ready Set Bet a new game from AEG. This is real time betting game. You are placing wagers on different horses as someone is rolling dice and advancing them. And then in the discussion topic Bob and Natasha continue on with the Board Game Shenanigans Top 100 games of all time.
This week, Bob and Natasha embark on the Board Game Shenanigans top 100 games of all time. But before that, Natasha shared her experience playing a few games at a Halloween game night. She chats about London Dread, Betrayal at House on the Hill, and One Night Ultimate Werewolf. After that they do the top 100, which is a little different than normal podcasts. Instead of doing two lists, Natasha has averaged both her list and Bob's, which has created the Board Game Shenanigans Top 100.
This week, Bob and Natasha are back at it with three games. First up is the roll and write from Stonemaier games, Rolling Realms. This is super interesting because you end up playing a bunch of mini games based off of the Stonemaier game catalog. After that they discuss the drafting game Hadara. This game is simultaneous, you get to draft and you climb up tracks?? What's not to love? Last up Bob and Natasha review a new party game from Repos Productions, Fun Facts. In this game players need to know a bit about the other players at the table as well as themselves. Definitely a game for families. And in the discussion topic they look at their favorite party games at the moment. Which ones will be at the top?
This week Bob and Natasha take a look at a couple lighter family weight games. Both have fantastic artwork and are very charming. First up is Flamecraft, which is a contract fulfillment game from Cardboard Alchemy, where players will visit shops to collect resources or enchant those same shops making them better. After that they discuss Creature Comforts, which is a worker placement game with dice. In this game players are a family of woodland creatures trying to stock their dens with all the comforts they can before winter. This weeks topic is all about painting miniatures and how Bob and Natasha got into painting them.
This week, Bob and Natasha sit down and discuss a couple of Pandasaurus games. First up is Dinosaur Island, this is a worker placement, research management game where players are building their own dinosaur parks. This certainly feels like Jurassic Park. After that they take a look at the successor, Dinosaur World. This has a very similar feel, but some key differences, mostly you get a jeep meeple or jeeple, which you move around your park giving tours. There is quite a bit more focus on the construction and placement of the park buildings. In the discussion topic this week, Bob and Natasha look at disposable games. They share their thoughts about the trend with legacy and exit style games.
This week Bob and Natasha take a look at a couple newer games. First up they discuss Arcana Rising. This is a drafting, engine building game released from Grey Fox Games. Next they review the push your luck deck building game The Hunger. This is a newer release from Richard Garfield, which has a vampire theme, you get to hunt humans, recruit familiars, but make sure you get back to the castle before sunrise or you don't get to score any points. And in the discussion topic Bob and Natasha discuss a question Bob saw posted on the Board Game Revolution Community Facebook group, what is one thing you wish you knew before getting into the hobby?
In this weeks episode Bob and Natasha take a look at the quick tile laying Akropolis. This game has a pretty simply rule set but definitely has some great decision in it. After that they review a game Natasha has been extremely excited about playing, Twilight Inscription, the Twilight Imperium roll and write. Don't let the fact it is a roll and write fool you, it is certainly a heavy game. You have to manage four different sheets, but that are a ton of combo's you can pull off in this game. In the discussion topic this week that list their top 5 game publishers. And honestly the lists might surprise you.
After a week off, Bob and Natasha are back! They take a look Teotihuacan: City of Gods, which has received quite a bit of praise over the years. After that they take a look at The Castles of Mad King Ludwig, which seems to be a classic I split you choose, tile laying game. In the discussion topic Bob and Natasha list their top 5 designers.
This week, Bob and Natasha discuss the award winning game, Dead of Winter. They got a chance to sit down and play it at their local convention, GrandCon. It is one of Bob's most thematic games, so you know he likes it, but does Natasha? After that Natasha talks about Paint the Roses, an Alice in Wonderland themed cooperative deduction game. And in the discussion topic Bob and Natasha share their experience at GrandCon. This is their local convention based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
In this week's episode, Bob and Natasha compare Smartphone Inc and Mobile Markets. Mobile Markets is the new streamlined version of Smartphone, which released this year from Cosmodrome Gamed. Natasha also shares her experience playing the game of Life. In the discussion topic they take a look at their top 10 thematic games.
It is finally time for Bob to share his thoughts about Return to Dark Tower. Did it live up to the hype? It was his most anticipated game of 2022. Then Bob and Natasha discuss the new AEG release, Wormholes. In the discussion topic this week it is finally time to discuss science fiction vs fantasy. They also welcome a special guest this week to help with the discussion.
This week is a smidge different. Natasha starts the episode off with talking about teaching her daughter Berried Treasure and her experience with The Crew at two players. Then it is back to review and this week has a slight garden theme. Bob and Natasha discuss Arboretum and the new release Gartenbau. Before the break Natasha shares a book recommendation, Hail Mary by Andy Weir. Then in the discussion topic, they discuss hosting a board game night, how many people do the invite? How do they find the right people?
As always send any questions to boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week Bob and Natasha take a look at the Let's Make a Bus Route reimplementation, Get On Board: New York and London. This flip and write has been getting a ton of buzz. They also compare the award winning King Domino to Queen Domino. See which one they like better. In the discussion topic they talk about board game box sizes. This has been coming up a lot lately, if the box size matches the game play. Does it effect your buying decision? Should there be universal sizes? Listen and find out what they think. As always send any questions to boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week, Bob starts the show with talking about his experience with the Maracaibo campaign. He shares what he liked and what he didn't. Then they move into the reviews this week which are The Guild Of Merchant Explorers, and two classic push your luck games, Incan Gold and Can't Stop. Then in the discussion topic, Bob and Natasha are at it again with part 3 of "Would you rather: Board Game Edition". Don't forget to leave a like and review. As always send any questions to boardgameshenanigans@gmail.com
This week, Bob and Natasha share a little bit about their recent vacations, as they both have traveled overseas. The do discuss a few games this week, the award winning party game Codenames, the tile laying game Barenpark and the deduction game Loot of Lima. In the discussion topic they talk about their pet peeves in board gaming, including the way people teach, sleeves and the eating of Cheetos' at Bob's table.
In today's episode, Bob and Natasha share their thoughts on a new game from Restoration Games, Berried Treasure. This reimplements Buried Treasure an older Sid Sackson game. They also discuss the popular Arcane Wonders game Furnace and finish off with Stonemaier's reprint of Libertalia, The Winds of Galecrest. In the discussion topic Bob and Natasha play another round of "Would you rather: Board Game Edition."
This week is all about two player games. In the review section of the episode Bob and Natasha review some popular two player games: Battle Line, Targi, Lost Cities, 7 Wonders Dual, and Jaipur. They take the two player idea into the discussion topic as they discuss games that they enjoy to play at two player, instead of higher player counts.
This week, Bob and Natasha sit down to discuss trick taking games. They both love this style of game so it seemed only right to discuss a few. They take a look at Cat in the Box, Ghosts of Christmas, Skull King and The Crew: Mission Deep Sea. In the topic this week they play a game of "Would You Rather: Board Game Addition." It definitely leads them down some rabbit holes.
In this week's episode Bob and Natasha review Planet Unknown, which they got a chance to play at Origins. This is the new hot Polyomino game. They follow that up with an expansion to the OG deck building game, Dominion. Allies has some interesting things that it brings to the table. And they wrap up Res Arcana, the engine building game that seems to work even though you don't think it will. In the topic this week, Bob and Natasha discuss board game collections. Natasha has the definitive number of games you need to own to be considered a board game enthusiast.
This week Bob and Natasha take a look at Scythe, Everdell, and Scout. The two gush over Scythe as they share their love for it. Since Natasha has never played Everdell, Bob had to fix that, so what does she think? It has fantastic artwork to say the least. Finally they discuss Scout, which is nominated for the Spiel Des Jahres, will it beat Cascadia? The discussion topic this week is their recap of origins, they discuss the con and how it went.
This week, Bob and Natasha finally share their thoughts on Ark Nova, the game of games, the hotness of the hotness! Natasha then shares her experience playing Unlock Kids with her son. And finally, they discuss what they think of Honey Buzz. They are also sharing another Top 10 list: Their Top 10 highly rated games that they haven't played but really need to.
With the recent release of Azul: Queen's Garden it seemed only fitting for Bob and Natasha to review all four Azul's and give you their thoughts. In this episode, they compare all four and share with you their favorite version. In this week's discussion topic they look forward to Origins Game Fair and share what they enjoy most about the convention. If you are going to Origins don't forget to say Hi!
This week's episode is going to be a little different. Normally Bob and Natasha review a few games, but not this week. They got a chance to sit down with the owner of Grand Gamers Guild, Marc Spectre. They discuss kickstarter and the process from the publisher's perspective. Marc is currently running a kickstarter project for an expansion to the Artemis Project, which ends June 3rd. Check it out!
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/grandgamersguild/the-artemis-project-satellites-and-commanders
In this week's episode Bob and Natasha look at some now classic Euro games, The Castles of Burgundy and The Voyages of Marco Polo. We also get to hear about Natasha building an awesome Rube Goldberg Machine with her son.
In the discussion topic this week, Bob and Natasha had the opportunity to talk with the Executive Director of the Bodhana Group, Jack Berkenstock Jr. Jack shares how Bodhana came to be and how they use games and RPG's. The Bodhana Group is a nonprofit that advocates the use of tabletop gaming as a directed therapeutic and clinical practice that can benefit personal growth as well as enhance social and educational services to individuals and families.
In this week's episode Bob and Natasha review another Vladimir Suchy game Underwater Cities. They also discuss the popular push your luck game, The Quacks of Quedlinburg. And finish off their reviews with the civilization game that really isn't a civilization game, Tapestry.
In the discussion topic Bob and Natasha continue on with their interviews of mental health professionals who utilize board games in the therapy sessions. This week they are joined by Jeff Parker a LMSW who practices out of the central Arkansas area. Jeff discuss his experiences with games and mental health and also talks about building a tiny house.
This week Bob and Natasha are back comparing games. This week they take a look at a couple of bag building classics, Orleans and Altiplano. Which one do they like better? Natasha also finally had a chance to sit down and play Alhambra, so it seems only fitting that they discuss this Queen Games classic.
In the second part of the episode they are continuing with their series on games and mental health. This week they are excited to sit down with the Founder and Executive Director of Game to Grow, Adam Davis (He/Him). Game to Grow is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the use of games for therapeutic, educational, and community growth. Game to Grow’s weekly therapeutic social skills groups help over 150 participants around the world become more confident, creative, and socially capable using games of all kinds, most notably Dungeons and Dragons and Minecraft.
In this week's episode Bob and Natasha discuss Fleet: The Dice Game and its successor Three Sisters. Natasha tries her best to get the bottom of why Bob dislikes roll and writes. Does she succeed?
The month of May is mental health awareness month and we are super excited to have a special guest joining us this week. Shayna (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in mental health for 3 years. Shayna specializes in individual and group work and is very passionate about integrating games, crafts, movies, music, and other forms of pop culture into sessions. Shayna cohosts her own podcast called Mental Mages and has a board game instagram with her husband @acoupleoboredgamers
This week Bob and Natasha review Project L, Great Western Trail and Calico. They also take a look at Bob's least favorite game of all time. The topic this week was sparked from a Facebook post asking if people intentionally lose games to their friends and family to get them to like playing board games with them. Bob and Natasha weigh in with their thoughts on losing in games.
In this week's episode, Natasha shares her thoughts on the two Wingspan Expansions and her experience playing through Machi Koro Legacy with her son. Then it is on to two heavy hitters, Pulsar 2849 and Praga Caput Regni. Spoiler, Bob gives out his first 10/10 rating. Which game could it be? Finally in this week's discussion topic Bob and Natasha share their stories on how they got into the hobby. From childhood to present, they share their journey.
In episode 12, Bob and Natasha take a look at Terraforming Mars the original big box card game and compare it to its new version Ares Expedition, which is still a card game. They will also be reviewing Grand Austria Hotel. In the discussion topic this week they look at scoring in board games. What kind of scoring do they like the best? Which do they dislike the most?
Architects, Paladins, Viscounts, which game is best of the three? That is what Bob and Natasha will be discussing in this week's episode. They review and compare all three of the games by Shem Philips and S J Macdonald. And what better week to discuss artwork after reviewing three beautiful games. Who are some of our favorite artists? Listen and find out!
In this week's episode Bob and Natasha review and compare Wingspan and Mariposas. Despite Bob's unfounded distaste of roll and writes, they also review Merchants of Magick. Will he actually like this one? Probably not, but one could hope. And finally they take a look at Maracaibo. This weeks topic is their Top 10 welcoming games. What games have they had the best success teaching non hobby board gamers? Listen and find out.
This week Bob and Natasha will be looking at a couple of games that are getting a ton of positive buzz, Cascadia and Meadow. They will also be sharing their thoughts on Tiny Towns and Lords of Waterdeep. Natasha will then share her most hated game of all time. The discussion topic this week is all about Board Game Jargon. What is a meeple? What is a sand box game? They will be explaining those and much more. Bob will also share what exactly is a "Natasha Turn".
In this week's episode Bob and Natasha take a look at Let's Make a Bus Route the Dice Game, Beyond the Sun (a space game Natasha actually likes), Kemet: Blood and Sand, and Cape May. Bob and Natasha will then discuss their experiences with getting friends into the hobby.
In episode 7, Bob and Natasha review and discuss a Ticket to Ride Map Pack, Rollplayer, Fuze and Spirit Island. They also discuss cooperative games and are joined by a special guest, Ashley, Bob's better half. Natasha sheds the light on why she is not a fan of co-op's and Ashley shares her unique perspective on board games and mental health.
In this week's episode, Bob and Natasha settle the great 2020 debate, Lost Ruin of Arnak or Dune: Imperium. Well not really, but they review them and compare them. They also take a look at Civilization: A New Dawn and Star Wars: Outer Rim. Natasha and Bob finish this episode with a riveting debate about Theme in board games and if it does (or does not) affect our purchases, what themes they like and dislike.
In Episode 5, we're reviewing Heaven and Ale; So Clover; Le Havre; Mountain Goats and a kid's game that shouldn't exist, but somehow it does. With the assistance of a special guest, we share our top 10 kids games.
In Episode 4, we're reviewing Pandemic Legacy Season 0; Isle Of Cats; Gladius; Letter Jam and take a look at another mediocre kid's game. We'll also discuss the art of teaching board games: how to do it right and how to do it wrong. Bob shares an entertaining story about friends requesting him to teach a game.
In Episode 3, we're reviewing MicroMacro: Crime City; Genotype; Super-Skill Pinball; Lockup and, just for fun, Monopoly Builder. We'll talk about playing new games vs. old games and discuss the number of new games released each year and share our secrets on how we choose what games to play.
In Episode Two, Natasha and I discuss Awkward Guests, 7 Wonders: Architects, Rajas of the Ganges/The Dice Charmers and Khora: Rise of the Empire. We also take a look at our Top 10 anticipated 2022 game releases and share our goal for gaming this year.
In this episode Natasha and I discuss the Eric Lang trilogy: Blood Rage, Rising Sun and Ankh. We also count down our Top 10 games from 2021.