The Innkeeper's Table: Recent Episodes
Bill Giles and Dylan Maltby
The Innkeeper's Table is part of The Dice Tower Network. It's a show about board games meant to appeal to gamers while still being accessible to people who don't know a lot about the subject. Each week, hosts Bill and Dylan, two long-time friends who both love board games, will focus on a specific board game-related topic, from game mechanics to deep dives on specific games to explaining what some of the jargon board game enthusiasts use even means.
It's a very bittersweet moment. Dylan and Bill have sadly decided it's time to step away from the podcast—possibly forever, or perhaps just for a time.
In this extended final episode, the innkeepers look back on the last four years, and how The Innkeeper's Table has affected their lives.
A special, special thanks to all of you listeners. You've made it worthwhile, and we've loved having you along for the ride. Keep in touch, please. Even if we're not posting new episodes, we'd love to hear from you any time at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
...Seriously. Thank you.
Do you have a favorite game that, somehow, no one else seems to have ever heard of? That's what this week's Top 3 list is about!
In this episode, the innkeepers discuss their top 3 "hidden gems" games—the games that, in spite of being good, somehow have missed the public eye.
What games fall into this category for you? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
First, we start off with a big announcement.
After the announcement, though, we move into our discussion of one of Dylan's favorite games, Terra Mystica. It's filled with halflings, dwarves, elves, witches, and other mystical creatures who are all just trying to carve out a place in this enchanted world.
Have you ever played Terra Mystica? What did you think? We'd love to hear your thoughts at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
"What's a pirate's favorite letter?"
Most people immediately say "Arrrrr!" but actually, his first love will always be "the C."
Pirates are a great theme—from pieces o' eight to mighty buckswashlers on the open seas! And wouldn't you know? Some game designers have been designing some games upon the bounding main! In this episode, the innkeepers talk about their favorite pirate-themed games.
What's your favorite pirate-themed game? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Dune. The Desert Planet. The only source of Spice in the universe, completely overrun by inhospitable deserts and deadly sandstorms.
Whether you're a fan Frank Herbert's masterpiece or of hefty board games where you're battling for conquest, Dune: War for Arrakis is probably right up your alley. In this episode, Bill and Dylan discuss the newly-released game and what makes it so epic.
Have you gotten a chance to play Dune: War for Arrakis yet? What did you think? What board games would you like us to discuss in the future? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Sometimes, a game doesn't need a fancy story or illustrations or any sort of theme. For some games, gameplay is everything.
In this episode, the Innkeepers are taking a look at abstract strategy games—games where it's just the players, the pieces, and the board between them. Some of these games go WAAAAY back.
Do you have a favorite abstract strategy game? We'd love to hear about it! What Top 3 list would you like us to try in the future? We'd love to know that, too! Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Who was the mysterious woman about whom many of Shakespeare's sonnets are written? In this episode, Dylan tells Bill about a game about that very question. And not only is the theme interesting and unique—it's made specifically for solo play.
How shall we play it? Let us count the ways...
Have you ever played Black Sonata? What was your experience like? What similar games would you suggest? And what games would you like us to spotlight in future episodes? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Do you like maps? Do you like moving little dudes around on those maps? Then you probably like Dudes On a Map games! These are games where you're moving units around, conquering territories, and making strategic plays to defeat your denemies. In this episode, Dylan and Bill break down their favorite games in this genre.
Dude.
What are your favorite Dudes On a Map games? What Top 3 list would you like The Innkeepers to take on in the future? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
With the cold spell that's been sweeping the United States lately, we thought it might be a good idea to discuss a cozy game all about making nice, warm quilts!
Have you played Patchwork? What did you think of it? What game would you like us to spotlight next? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
There's just something satisfying about starting with a very basic deck of cards (or pool of dice, or bag of tokens, etc...) in a game, then gradually building it to be a powerful collection of tools. In this episode, Dylan and Bill discuss their favorite games that use this simple but elegant mechanic.
Do you enjoy deckbuilders? What are some of your favorites? What Top 3 list would you like us to make in the future? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Bring Your Own Book is a game that feels like it's flown under many people's radar, so we wanted to give it some love.
Have you ever played Bring Your Own Book? We'd love to hear some of your funny experiences with it! What games would you like us to spotlight in the future? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Many gamers have that list of games they've bought but, somehow, still haven't ever gotten to the table, and the innkeepers are definitely no exception! In this episode, as we come to the end of 2023, Bill and Dylan list the top three games on their "shelves of shame" that they're really hoping to finally get to the table in 2024!
What games are you hoping to get off your shelf of shame soon? What Top 3 list would you like us to make next? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Technically, Unlock is a series of games, but since they all follow the same mechanics, and you can only play each game once, we figured it was best to cover them as a unit!
Do you enjoy the Unlock series? Have you tried any other "Escape the Room" style games? What are your favorites? And what game do you think we should spotlight next? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Bill and Dylan discuss their top picks when it comes to "gateway games" or "welcoming games"—the games that work well for people who are just barely discovering how deep the hobby gaming rabbit hole goes.
What's your favorite game in this category? Is there a specific Top 3 list you'd like us to make? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Dylan and Bill spent last weekend at a small local convention. In this episode, they discuss the convention, some of the games they played, and how things went overall.
Do you have a board game convention that you enjoy? We'd love to hear your convention stories! Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
We've got a convention this weekend, so this week's episode will be just a little bit late! Stay tuned!
It's the end of the world as we know it! (So how do you feel?)
Bill pitches the independently-publushed game Doomlings from Doomlings, LLC to Dylan. It's a fun, casual card game where players are trying to guide an amorphus species of critters from the Dawn of Life all the way through the End of the World. And it's adorable!
Have you had a chance to try out Doomlings? What did you think of the game? What game would you like us to spotlight on an upcoming episode? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
October's come! The time for fright!
But are there spooks on Gaming Night?
Can gamers seek, if they are bold,
For games to make the blood run cold?
In this week's episode, the spooky season has come to the Inn! Dylan and Bill discuss their Top 3 games to play in October, when you're looking for a creepy atmosphere.
What's your favorite game to play around Halloween? What Top 3 list would you like us to do next? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Y'know what board games could use more of? Quantum Theory! But let's make it a classic trick-taking game!
...
Okay, so this is the game that no one asked for, but ended up being a great concept. What color is the card in your hand? It's never truly certain until you play it!
Do you have a game you'd like us to spotlight? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
We talk a lot about games... But what about the places you buy them?
In this episode, Dlyan and Bill turn the Top 3 list a tad askew and discuss the top three things they think any good game store should have.
What do you look for in a game store? What Top 3 list should we do next? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
It's been ten years since it came out, but Sushi Go is still a great game, earning its place as a classic in the hearts of many gamers. In this episode, Bill and Dylan discuss Sushi Go, as well as its successor, Sushi Go Party.
Do you have a game you'd like us to spotlight? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Can't we all just get along?
Sometimes, you want to play a game, but you're not necessarily in a competitive mood. Cooperative games have got you covered! In this episode, Bill and Dylan talk about their favorite three cooperative games.
What are your favorite co-op games? What other Top 3 lists would you like our innkeepers to create? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Dylan tells Bill about a game he enjoys playing with his kids: Similo. A quick setup, quick teach, and quick play, Similo is a great breadstick game that takes the children's game Guess Who to the next level, incorporating a variety of popular characters and making the game enjoyable for all ages.
Do you have a game you'd like the Innkeepers to spotlight? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Dylan and Bill talk about their favorite three games that are based on previously-existing intellectual properties.
What are your favorite games based on an IP? Are there any Top 3 lists you'd like to hear us make? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Hooray! Dylan's back! And he's ready to talk board games!
In this episode, Bill tells Dylan about a game he's played that Dylan hasn't had an opportunity to get to the table yet. Picture Perfect mixes aspects of spacial reasoning, memory, and a little bit of deduction in a fun, Roaring '20s-themed photo op.
Do you have a game you'd like the Innkeepers to spotlight? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Dylan couldn't make it this week, so Bill invited a guest host: Jordan Davis, aka "SpliceStream." Jordan's interests lie more in video games and streaming Smash Brothers and amiibo content, but he plays board games on the rare occasion and has a few that are among his favorites. He discusses his Top 3 games in this unusual episode!
Do you have a non-gamer friend who still has board games he enjoys? Do you enjoy streaming? Do you have any Top 3 lists you'd like to hear from? Are there any content creators you'd like to hear on our show? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Also, check out Jordan's content at www.youtube.com/splicestream or www.kick.com/splicestream!
This is another game that's a bit older, but it's also an absolute classic. If you're a fan of social deduction games, this is either one that you've played a million times or one that you should play at least once.
What do you think of The Resistance? Do you have another social deduction game that you love? Do you have any suggestions for games we should spotlight in the future? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
A little over a year ago, The Innkeeper's Table hit Episode #100 and listed our Top 10 favorite games of all time. We've decided to make that a part of our yearly tradition as we celebrate the founding of our podcast. So, as The Innkeeper's Table podcast turned 3 this week, Bill and Dylan revisit and discuss their Top 10 lists.
What do you think of our lists? What are your Top 10? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
So sorry to miss you last week! Life happens, but we're back with another episode.
This week, Dylan and Bill discuss Lords of Waterdeep, one of the best known examples of a worker placement game.
Have you played this game? What did you think? What game would you like us to spotlight next? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Bill has family in town for his niblings' college graduation, so this week's episode has to be postponed! We're really sorry for missing this week, but we're looking forward to next week's episode and would love to hear from you in the meantime! Write in to innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com! We'd love to hear what games you're enjoying and what you'd like us to talk about!
The mailbag is empty today, so the innkeepers have chosen their own topic to discuss. How do you know when it's time to start culling your collection? What should you cull, and what should you keep? How should you go about determining which games should go to make room for new ones?
We'd love to be answering your questions instead, so get your questions in at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com! And while you're at it, we'd love to hear what other sorts of episodes you'd like to hear from us! (And don't forget to leave your positive reviews wherever you listen to podcasts!)
The Innkeepers list some of the games with their favorite art!
What artwork from a game stands out to you? What Top 3 list would you like us to do next? How do you think we're doing, and how could we improve the podcast? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
It's a dark day in the town of Ravenwood Bluff. Evil forces are at play, and the townspeople must work together to determine which amongst their number is a demon in disguise!
In this episode, Dylan and Bill discuss the social deduction game Blood on the Clocktower. Who are the traitors among them? What secrets do the other players know? And which side will be the victors?
Have you played Blood on the Clocktower? What did you think? Do you have a favorite social deduction game? Tell us all about it at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
It may be a little bit late, but Bill and Dylan are finally ready to talk about Hoity Toity, the 1990 winner of the prestigious Spiel des Jahres, or "Game of the Year" award!
Have you ever played Hoity Toity? Did you enjoy it? Which of the innkeepers did your opinion fall more in line with? What game or gaming-related topic would you like us to discuss next? Let us know, or just tell us how you think we're doing, at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com. And while you're at it, leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts!
Everyone likes to win, but what about when you're teaching a game to someone who's new to that game, or even to board games in general? The innkeepers discuss.
Do you agree with Bill and Dylan on this issue? We'd love to hear your opinion! Send us an email at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com to let us know what you think is the proper way to handle a situation like this. And please leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts and email us about how you think we're doing and what you'd like to hear us talk about!
Bill and Dylan attended SaltCON in Layton, Utah at the beginning of March. In this episode, they discuss how things went, what games they enjoyed, and just give an overview on what stood out to them about the convention.
Have you been to a board game convention? We'd love to hear about it! Send us an email at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com and tell us what you enjoyed, what you'd like us to discuss on the show, and how you think we're doing overall. And don't forget to leave a review on your favorite podcast app!
Often, when you play a board game, it's done in just an hour or two. But some games last longer—even spanning multiple sessions. In some games, the way you played in an earlier session can affect the outcome of a later game.
In this episode, Dylan and Bill talk about their favorite legacy games and campaign-based games.
What did you think of our top 3 legacy/campaign games? What legacy or campaign games do you enjoy? What's a Top 3 list you'd like us to make on an episode of The Innkeeper's Table? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com. And make sure to leave a great review for us wherever you listen to podcasts!
Painting gets you points. Going to the hot springs gets you points. Meeting people gets you points. Eating delicious food gets you points.
... There's a lot of ways to get points.
Tokaido is a game that has been lovingly referred to as "competitively having the nicest day." It can somehow feel zen and cutthroat at the same time. Join the Innkeepers as they discuss this classic.
What do you think of Tokaido? Are there any other games you'd like the Innkeepers to play and discuss as part of the show? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com. And please go to your favorite podcast app or site and leave us a great review!
Dylan and Bill discuss the next entry in their survey of Spiel des Jahres (Game of the Year) winners. This month's game is the 1989 winner, Cafe International.
Are you enjoying our exploration of Spiel des Jahres winners? Have you played Cafe International? What did you think of it? Do you have any games you'd like us to review? Any questions you'd like us to discuss? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com. And be sure to head to your favorite podcast site and leave us a review!
Bill and Dylan respond to a listener's request to discuss what a rondel is and how they can factor into board games.
What's your favorite rondel game? Did we miss any? What questions or topics to do have for the innkeepers? Send them to us at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com! And don't forget to leave a review wherever you listen to your podcasts!
Dylan and Bill list their favorite games centered around a worker placement mechanic.
Are there any of your favorite worker placement games that we left off? Do you have an idea for a Top 3 list that you'd like us to do? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com! And if you like the show, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts!
With the sad news of designer Serge Laget's passing, The Innkeepers discuss one of their favorite games from his repertoire. This next-level evolution of the Clue/Cluedo-style murder mystery has now become a classic.
Have you had the chance to play Mystery of the Abbey? What was your experience like? Or perhaps you're still looking for this now-out-of-print game from the mid-'90s. Tell us all about it at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com. While you're at it, let us know what topics you'd like us to discuss and what you think of the show. We'd love to hear from you!
The innkeepers talk about the 1988 Spiel des Jahres winner, Barbarossa, later rereleased under the name "Dohdles."
This was a harder one to get hold of, so we'd love to hear if any of you have gotten the opportunity to play it! What was your experience? Did you enjoy it? Let us know your stories and thoughts, as well as any topics you'd like Dylan and Bill to discuss on the show, at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Yes, you read that title right. One of our listeners submitted a question asking what makes Monopoly such a bad game, and our response was actually... to disagree.
Can't wait to read the feedback on this one!
It's a brand new year, and the innkeepers are looking forward to it! In this episode, Dylan and Bill talk about the top 3 new(ish) games each of them is looking forward to playing in 2023.
The innkeepers are back! After a much-needed hiatus, Bill and Dylan are back and excited to talk about Dune: Imperium.
The end of the year means so many wonderful things—friends, family, celebrations, and (hopefully) lots and lots of board games! Unfortunately, with so many things to do, we're going to have to take a (VERY brief!) hiatus. We'll be back on January 6th, though. In the meantime, Happy Holidays, and good gaming! We can't wait to welcome you back into the Inn on 1/6/2023, though!
The hosts discuss their top 3 drafting games.
What are your top 3 drafting games? Do you agree with the hosts definition of what constitutes a drafting game? What Top 3 would you like us to do in the future? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
A dark chill has fallen across the land, and people are afraid to go out of their homes at night. It's not safe, for Dracula is prowling the streets and seeking to spread his dark influence!
In this episode, the hosts are discussing the hidden movement classic, Fury of Dracula!
Have you played Fury of Dracula? Which edition did you play? Do you have a favorite hidden movement game? What game would you like the hosts to spotlight in the future? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
The hosts discuss the 1987 Spiel des Jahres winner, Auf Achse.
Have you ever played Auf Achse? Do you know how to get hold of an English copy? What do you think of it? Let us know, and send in your suggestions for topics the innkeepers should discuss to innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
The innkeepers respond to a listener question: "What board game has fired another board game for you?"
Have you had a game "fire" another one? Which ones? And do you have a question you'd like the innkeepers to discuss? Share it with us at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Sometimes dice get a bad rap, because they can add a lot of randomness to a game. But sometimes, a little randomness is just what a game needs. These are Dylan and Bill's favorite dice games.
What are some of your favorite dice games? Are there any big ones that we missed? What Top 3 list would you like us to do in the future? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com
Who loves engine builders? Who loves building engines? Who loves engine builders about building engines!?
Dylan and Bill discuss the power of science! Or at least the power of acrylic marbles. Whatever. This episode's about Gizmos.
Have you played Gizmos? What did you think? What game should we spotlight in a future episode? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com
The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is real, and it rears its head in the gaming community often. New games are constantly being released, and many of them have shiny, deluxe components. So how do gamers handle the desire to get hold of everything? How can you be responsible with your game-buying habits? The innkeepers discuss.
Did this episode ring true to you? Do you have a FOMO story you can share with us? Is there a board gaming topic you'd like the hosts to discuss? Email us at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com and let us know!
Dylan and Bill discuss the 1986 Spiel des Jahres winner, Top Secret Spies, also known as Heimlich & Co.
Have you tried this winner of the prestigious Game of the Year award? We'd love to hear what you think of it. What are some other topics you'd like to hear us discuss? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
The Innkeepers respond to a listener question: What are some games for preteens that an adult can also enjoy playing with them?
What are some of your recommendations in this area? Do you have a question for the hosts? Share them with us at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
The Innkeepers respond to a listener question: What are some games for preteens that an adult can also enjoy playing with them?
What are some of your recommendations in this area? Do you have a question for the hosts? Share them with us at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Summer may be almost over, but that's not the only time you can take a vacation. In this episode, the Innkeepers talk about the games they bring with them when they take a step away from the Inn.
Do you have games you like to travel with? Great games to share with family or friends who are vacationing with you? Is there a Top 3 list you'd like us to feature in a future episode? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Lying, smuggling, and bribery... What a great family game! In Sheriff of Nottingham, players take turns playing the eponymous sheriff and inspecting the goods the other players bring to market. Will the players sneak illicit goods past the checkpoint? Or will some well-placed coin convince the sheriff to look the other way? Dylan and Bill discuss.
Have you ever played this modern classic? What did you think? And what game do you think the Innkeepers should discuss next? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
We apologize, but the innkeepers needed to take a sick day this week. We hate to disappoint you, but we hope you'll agree that it's for the best.
Thanks for your patience!
The Innkeepers respond to a listener question:
Sometimes, when you're playing a cooperative game, one player just gets so into things that they completely take over. What's the best way to handle this sort of situation while avoiding potential pitfalls?
How do you handle a situation where one player takes over? Do you have any questions for the hosts? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Dylan and Bill list their top 3 dexterity games, where how you place your pieces can matter just as much as where you place them.
Do you have a favorite dexterity game? Is there a Top 3 list you'd like us to do? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Are you an overachiever? The sort of person who needs to be the best at every academic metric? The sort of person who stays up until all hours of the morning, studying, memorizing, chanting encantations and crafting magical items?
Wait, there's MAGIC in this!?
In this episode, Bill and Dylan discuss Arcane Academy by Eric Lang and Kevin Wilson, a game that Bill describes as "an underappreciated classic" and that Dylan describes as "a game I only played once, several years ago." It's a fun one.
Have you ever played Arcane Academy? What did you think of it? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
Dylan and Bill talk about the pros and cons of keeping track of what games you've played, who won, and other statistics.
Do you record your plays? Why or why not? Tell us about it at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
"Data! Data! Data! I cannot make bricks without clay!" The 1985 winner of the Spiel des Jahres award is all about gathering data to solve a series of mysteries. Bill and Dylan discuss (and debate, just a bit) the merits of this classic detective game.
Have you ever played Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective? What did you think? Are there other detective games you enjoy that you'd like us to play and/or discuss? We're always looking for game recommendations! Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Some games have a reputation of "ending friendships." So are there games that you should avoid playing with people you care about at all costs?
If you've got a question you'd like the hosts to discuss in an episode, send it to innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com! We'd love to hear from you!
Yum! Bill and Dylan discuss their favorite games that are about food.
What Top 3 list would you like us to do next? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Co-op. Logic deduction. Shrubbery and flowers.
Dylan and Bill discuss the new Alice in Wonderland-themed game, Paint the Roses.
Is there a game you'd like to hear our thoughts on? Send us an email at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com
Dylan and Bill discuss the 1984 Spiel des Jahres winner: Railway Rivals.
Have you ever played Railway Rivals? What did you think? Write to us at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com to share your thoughts!
Bill talks about where his plan to open a board game cafe stands, then both hosts talk about features they would have in their ideal board game cafes.
Have you ever been to a board game cafe that you loved? What was it you loved about it? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
The Innkeepers talk about their top games for 5 or more players.
So what did we miss? Write to us and let us know your Top 3 games for larger groups at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
This is arguably the game that led Bill and Dylan into their long journey on the path of board games. Bang! is a long-time favorite, and its follow-up, Bang!: The Dice Game took many of the best parts of the original game and streamlined them. So what do the hosts have to say about these games over a decade after they originally found it?
It's a chase through London! One player flees while the rest of the group tries to find and catch the fugitive! In this episode, the hosts talk about the 1983 Spiel des Jahres winner, Scotland Yard! ____________________________________
Have you played Scotland Yard before? What did you think? Do you have other hidden movement games you enjoy? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
It's all fun and games until someone starts taking the competition a little too seriously. Bill and Dylan talk about how to handle things when someone (whether a child or a grown-up) starts getting a bit too competitive.
___________________
What are some of your tips for handling things when a game gets too heated? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Celebrating the two-year anniversary of The Innkeeper's Table podcast, Dylan and Bill discuss the top 3 games that they never expected.
Bill and Dylan discuss the brand new, co-operative logic-deduction game from Floodgate Games, Decorum. Have you played Decorum yet? Email us to let us know what you thought of it at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
The hosts discuss the merits and drawbacks of loaning your board games to other people.
Bill and Dylan discuss the roll-and-move/memory hybrid Enchanted Forest, which won the 1982 Spiel des Jahres/Game of the Year award.
Dylan and Bill answer a question from a listener who is looking for good science fiction and fantasy games to play with their 6-year-old niece who loves Harry Potter and Skyward.
Did we miss any? Write in and tell us what you would suggest at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
100 episodes! That's quite a milestone, and we couldn't have made it here without our listeners! To celebrate, the hosts have a special long episode prepared, where we discuss, not just our Top 3, but our Top 10 games, period!
We couldn't fit this whole discussion into our normal 15–20 minutes, so we've extended this special episode to over an hour to cover everything! We hope you'll enjoy it.
What are your favorite games? Write in and let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com!
So this one's a little different. The game's actually not out yet, but the crowdfunding campaign will be starting soon.
While we were at Dice Tower West 2022, Dylan had the opportunity to play Roy Cannaday's upcoming lightspeed 4X game, Last Light. In this episode, he pitches the game to Bill as one to play.
Deceptively simple to learn, with some impressive ramp-up in intensity later on, Focus, the 1981 winner of the Spiel des Jahres, has a lot going for it. In this episode, Bill and Dylan discuss what they thought of this simply complex game of strategy.
Bill and Dylan discuss whether or not board games are really more "social" than video games, and why or why not.
Dylan and Bill each list their top 3 games that were designed specifically for two players.
Bill and Dylan are joined by their friend Preston as they record live from Dice Tower West 2022 in Las Vegas!
What do you get when you cross Redwall, Fallout, and a very light version of an RPG? Aftermath, from Plaid Hat Games, that's what! So sit back, have a listen, and find out what the hosts thought of it.
Whether you've played it or not, the odds are pretty good that you've at least seen a copy in your parents' or grandparents' closet and wondered, "How the heck do you pronounce that?" In this episode, Bill and Dylan discuss the 1980 winner of the Spiel des Jahres award: Rummikub
Bill and Dylan answer a question from the mailbag: How can you find new games you'll enjoy based on old games you already know you like?
The Spiel des Jahres is arguably the most prestigious award in board gaming. Each month, Bill and Dylan will discuss won of the winners of this coveted honor, starting at the very beginning with the 1979 winner, Hare and Tortoise.
Dylan and Bill respond to a request from a listener to spotlight one of their favorite game designers—Wolfgang Warsch.
Question comes from listener calvinrtvp
Bill and Dylan talk about the games that came out in 2021 that they're still hoping to get to the table.
"Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind?" What about old games? Should they be forgotten, or do they have a place in the modern gaming hobby? Bill and Dylan discuss.
A question mark, four exclamation points, and a ton of tiny plastic cubes. Think of it as a form of charades for people who don't enjoy performing in front of people. In this episode, Dylan and Bill discuss Concept.
What are some good party games? What is it about party games that people seem to love so much? Bill and Dylan discuss.
Trivial Pursuit blew up in the '80s, but it's gotten rather dated. What are some other, more modern games you might try that could scratch the same itch?
In preparation for the upcoming holiday season, Bill and Dylan discuss some of their favorite games to play with their families.
Dylan and Bill offer their opinions of The Crew: The Search for Planet 9, a cooperative trick-taking game!
Hearts. Spades. Bridge. Rook. Trick-taking games are a long-standing staple in the world of card games. So what's the appeal? Why do people enjoy them so much? How do they work? And what new innovations have been made on this genre in recent years?
Ah, Chess. This one's been around a long time. But what if you're looking for something similar, but with a different spin on it? In this episode, Dylan and Bill discuss some of the many variants that Chess has inspired, as well as a few games that are completely different but might scratch the same itch.
How important is the theme of a game? What effect does it have on how much you enjoy playing? Is it absolutely necessary? Is it purely cosmetic? Dylan and Bill discuss these questions and more this week.
So we tried something new with this month's Game Spotlight. Alchemists is a game that Dylan loves, but Bill has never played. For this episode, Dylan tries to sell Bill on the concept of the game and make him want to give it a try. Will he succeed?
So if A equals B and B equals C, and the square root of -1 is i, then that means the black dog is the biggest, except for on nights with a full moon, when Mr. Johnson turns into a werewolf, and...
Logic and deduction games typically entail putting together bits of information, then interpreting them to come to a conclusion. Of course, this can play out differently depending on which game you're playing. Make sense?
Better listen to the episode. We explain it better there.
This episode was supposed to be posted on 10/01/21, but it was delayed a week. Because of that, you get two episodes this week! Here's the first one...
Yahtzee is the granddaddy of the roll-and-write (NOT Roland Wright!) genre. So if you loved this iconic game, what are some other—more modern—games that you might want to try? It's time to roll the dice and find out.
Game nights come in all shapes and sizes... but which size should you choose? Dylan and Bill talk about the pros and cons of larger game nights vs. smaller ones and everything in between.
Ah, the life of an Elvaland—a dwarvish councilmember and warchief from Norse mythology. To defend the realm from the rampaging dragon Fafnir, you need to gather the greatest warriors in the land—a greater collection than your rival Elvalands! And how do you do that, you ask? You pay them the most, of course!
In this episode, Bill and Dylan discuss the popular auction game, Nidavellir.
"Do I hear 5 crystals? 5? Who'll give me 7? I've got seven! 10?" In many board games, the most prized resources are finite, and players are scrambling to get the pieces that will help their strategy. How do you determine who gets those resources?
In games with an auction mechanic, they go to the player who wants them most! Or at least... who's willing to pay the most to get them.
What are your thoughts on auction mechanics? Let us know at innkeeperstablepodcast@gmail.com.
Did you enjoy Jenga? Do you want more games where you need to have nimble fingers or need to build structures without knocking them over? Dylan and Bill make suggestions in this episode for games you may want to check out.
The hosts answer a question from one of our listeners. If you're traveling and need to fit a wide variety of games into as small a space as possible, what's the best way to go about it?
As Kickstarter pledges are now being delivered in earnest, Eric Lang's Ankh: Gods of Egypt has been on everyone's minds lately. The third in a trilogy (and the sequel to Dylan's favorite game, Rising Sun) is the focus of our discussion in this episode. (Heads up—this episode is a little bit longer than most!)
The second half of Dylan and Bill's discussion of End of Summer SaltCON 2021 in Layton, Utah.
Dylan and Bill discuss their board gaming experience at End of Summer SaltCON 2021 in Layton, Utah.
What's the difference between a Customizable/Collectible Card Game (CCG) and a Living Card Game (LCG)? Bill and Dylan talk about how they're alike, how they're different, and why different gamers might prefer one over the other.
It's time to talk about Dylan's favorite game! Dylan and Bill discuss the smash hit from Eric Lang, Rising Sun.
The Innkeeper's Table is now a part of The Dice Tower Network! To celebrate, Bill and Dylan discuss some of their favorite content creators when it comes to board-game-related media.
Some games will have you pit your negotiating skills against each other. How do they integrate this into the game, and what are some of the different takes various games have taken on the mechanic?
Bill and Dylan talk about games people who enjoyed 7 Wonders and want more could try out.
Set collection is a mechanic that goes back a long way. How has it evolved, and what part does it play in modern games?
Is Ticket to Ride one of your favorite entry-level games? Dylan and Bill discuss other games you might want to check out.
The hosts discuss the balancing act of playing a wide variety of games and diving deep into a few specific games.
Bill and Dylan discuss the high fantasy faction war taking place in Heroes of Land, Air, and Sea.
Dylan and Bill discuss options for people who enjoyed The Settlers of Catan and want to step a bit deeper into the hobby.
Dylan and Bill discuss add-ons, upgrades, and other accessories to enhance the gaming experience.
Dylan and Bill talk about the next step into gaming for people who played and enjoyed the classic wargame, Risk.
The hosts discuss the concept of smaller games to start a game night or fill in the spaces between larger games.
Bill and Dylan take a closer look at the popular new story-and-exploration game from Red Raven Games, Sleeping Gods.
It's coming a week later than planned, but Dylan and Bill are talking about games people who enjoyed Scrabble might want to try out.
Bill and Dylan spotlight the co-op programming game based on League of Legends, Mechs vs. Minions.
Dylan and Bill discuss the logistics of hosting your own micro-convention—an all-day gaming party.
For our third episode each month, we will be highlighting a specific game. It may be old, or it may be brand new. This month, Bill and Dylan do a highlight on the runaway Kickstarter success, Tidal Blades: Heroes of the Reef.
The second week of each month, the hosts will do a spotlight on a specific game mechanic. For January 2020, they discuss dice management games.
Dylan and Bill introduce a new format for episode topics for the new year. The first week each month will feature suggestions of games to play if you enjoyed a specific game. This month, we look at games you might want to try if you enjoyed Dominion.
Dylan and Bill discuss what to do when you're trying to teach a board game, but there are just so many distractions.
In preparation for the upcoming holiday season, Bill and Dylan talk about introducing non-gamer family and friends to the board gaming hobby.
The two hosts discuss Horrified, a co-op game where players work together to defeat monsters from classic cinema.
Bill and Dylan highlight the classic game Betrayal at House on the Hill, as well as the more recent Betrayal Legacy.
To kick off the spooky season, Bill and Dylan talk about one of the scariest things to a gamer: The Shelf of Shame!
Bill and Dylan talk about the game Half-Truth, designed by Richard Garfield and Ken Jennings.
Dylan and Bill discuss how to make sure you're ready to teach people how to play a new game.
The hosts start the first of an ongoing series (sprinkled in between the next several episodes) about what to consider when hosting a game night.
Hosts Bill and Dylan talk about game expansions and where they fit into the gaming hobby.
Dylan and Bill discuss several options of where people can find and purchase board games.
Bill and Dylan talk about the engine-building mechanic and some of the games that utilize it.
The hosts open the mailbag and answer a question from a listener regarding mass market games that a hobby gamer might put on the shelf.
When we recorded this episode about gamer jargon, we had a segment where we broke down several specific terms that people use in the board game community. It didn't really work and ended up sounding like we were reading random entries in a glossary. However, we felt like the discussion at the beginning of the episode about how gamer jargon works was still worth sharing. We've cut out the portion that didn't work and are sharing the portion we thought our listeners might still enjoy as a bonus episode.
Bill and Dylan discuss the pros and cons of different options when you want to play board games with someone remotely.
Hosts Dylan and Bill talk about the common question board gamers get when they tell people about their hobby: "Oh! Like Monopoly?"
Welcome to the inn!
Hosts Bill and Dylan introduce themselves and explain why they decided to start this new, short-form board game podcast.