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Game Brain: A Board Game Podcast About Our Gaming Group

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A podcast about Board Games and friendship, and a real life board game group! Join us every week for an in-depth look at the board gaming…

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Game Brain: A Board Game Podcast About Our Gaming Group

About Game Brain: A Board Game Podcast About Our Gaming Group

A podcast about Board Games and friendship, and a real life board game group! Join us every week for an in-depth look at the board gaming hobby, including board game news, reviews and much, much more.

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Episodes

New episodes usually come out every two weeks.Latest 200 episodes in the feed
  1. Oct 26, 2026 · 1 hr 43 min

    #264 Bier Pioniere

    Ben, Trey, & Paul review the 2023 worker placement game Bier Pioniere. 00:00:00 Introduction00:02:07 Ostia00:24:00 Railways of the Lost Atlas00:31:40 Twilight Imperium IV00:39:55 Green Gold00:41:31 An Infamous Traffic00:45:50 Game Review: Bier Pioniere - https://www.youtube.com/@GameBrainPod - Game Brain Facebook Group - Instagram

  2. Oct 12, 2026 · 1 hr 47 min

    #263 Essen Preview '26

    Matthew, Ben and Jordan discuss the games they're most excited about releasing at Spiel Essen in the year of our lord 2026.

  3. Aug 24, 2026 · 1 hr 28 min

    #262 Greylune

    Ben, Trey, & Jordan review the 2026 game Greylune by William Attia. 00:00:00 Introduction00:04:43 Daggerheart00:06:38 Stonetop00:12:38 Kingdom Crossing00:17:22 Kraftwagen00:22:20 Come Together00:30:42 Twilight Imperium IV00:36:33 Pagan: the Fate of Roanoke00:37:58 Game Review: GreyluneDiscord link: https://discord.gg/W3KNryUWT (good for 30 days) - https://www.youtube.com/@GameBrainPod - Game Brain Facebook Group -…

  4. Aug 10, 2026 · 1 hr 11 min

    #261 Gen Con '26 Report!

    Jordan traveled to the distant lands of Indiana to play games, make friends, and speedwalk towards some very cool purchases. He shares his experiences at Gen Con 2026 with Matt, Trey, and Ben. Plus, the guys share recent plays of Sweet Lands, Greylune, and Stonetop, among others. Gather 'round and listen to tales of gaming! 00:00:00 Intro00:03:25 Jordan GenCon reportSorceryDaggerheartDrillers LairsEntropy00:25:00…

  5. Jul 20, 2026 · 1 hr 45 min

    #260: World Order

    Trey, Paul, and Ben go deep on World Order, the new geopolitical simulation from the people who brought you Hegemony. We also discuss recent plays of The Staufer Dynasty, Dogs of War, and Come Together, and after that, major game news from the world of Forbidden Stars! Or should we say Old Ones Origins? 00:00 Intro 4:05 Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring - The Trick Taking Game 7:51 - The Staufer Dynasty…

Earlier episodes (195)
  1. Jun 22, 2026 #259: Root: The Homeland Expansion
    Jordan and Paul review the latest expansions for the classic game of woodland warfare.
  2. May 31, 2026 #258 - Generosity at the Table
    Ben, Trey, and Paul break down recent plays of Railway Boom and Dogs of War. Then the trio launches into the discussion for this week: what does generosity look like at game night, and how do we aspire to be generous?
  3. May 18, 2026 #257 Sorcery: Contested Realm
    Matt and Jordan are joined by David and Corluka to discuss the indie TCG, Sorcery: Contested Realm. Is it the greatest thing to happen to TCG's since early MTG? Or is it just another (VERY) pretty face? How To Play Sorcery: Contested Realm (with Matt and Jordan): https://youtu.be/0voIN8W3CrU?si=o24xvuSmpCdY69W1
  4. May 4, 2026 #256 Nippon Zaibatsu
    Ben, Jordan, and Paul convene in their coziest garb to talk about the coziest game of a very cozy 2026: Nippon Zaibatsu! Well, cozy except for all the vicious area control and internal sobbing. We're talking about all the changes to the OG Nippon from 2015, and Jordan has a very specific and deserved beef to share. Plus, Tenby, The Treasure Ship of Zheng He, QE, and [insert spooky music] SorrRRrrcery. 00:00 Intro…
  5. Apr 20, 2026 #255: Feya's Swamp
    Matt, Paul and Jordan put on their wetsuits and dive into Feya's Swamp. Do you see what I did there? Dive into. Wetsuits. That's right, it's a swamp joke, ya'll.
  6. Apr 6, 2026 #254 Stupor Mundi
    Ben, Trey, & Paul review the 2025 game Stupor Mundi 0:00:00 IntroductionShackleton Base: Below. Within. Above. KeysideThe VibeDetective ClubAuf Teufel komm raus (Cabbages & Curses)Terraforming Mars00:51:50 Game Review: Stupor MundiDiscord link: https://discord.gg/9e7QvC9S (good for only 7 days) - Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Instagram
  7. Mar 23, 2026 #253 Star Trek: Captain's Chair
    Matt and Paul review the asymmetric heavy deck building game Star Trek: Captain's Chair as well as discuss the differences between CC and the Imperium series.
  8. Mar 9, 2026 #252 March of the Ants
    Ben, Trey, and Paul review the 2025 reimplementation of March of the Ants: Evolved Edition 0:00:00 Introduction0:03:35 Stupor Mundi0:14:31 Kingdom Crossing0:27:47 AgricolaGood Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die00:35:51 Game Review: March of the Ants: Evolved Edition - Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Instagram
  9. Feb 23, 2026 #251 Clans of Caledonia: Industria
    Trey, Tom, and Jordan review the 2025 expansion Clans of Caledonia: Industria. 0:00:00 IntroductionYear of the SerpentGood Luck, Have Fun, Don't DieYoutube - Play it Again channel00:08:22 Game Review: Clans of Caledonia: IndustriaTerra MysticaAge of InnovationGaia Project: The Lost Fleet - Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Instagram
  10. Feb 9, 2026 #250 Top 10 Board Games of 2025
    On a very special episode of Game Brain, Matthew, Ben, Trey, Paul and Jordan come together to take you through their Top Ten board games of 2025.
  11. Jan 26, 2026 #249 Tales of the Arthurian Knights
    Ben, Trey, and Paul review the 2024 narrative-driven game "Tales of the Arthurian Knights." Paul says it's not even a game. Could it possibly be good? (yes) Also recent plays of "March of the Ants," "Indonesia 3rd Edition," and "Secret Hitler." 00:00 - Intro 11:08 - March of the Ants, Evolved Edition 27:37 - Indonesia, 3rd Edition 41:39 - 18Chesapeake 43:32 - Secret Hitler 1:04:44 - Tales of the Arthurian Knights…
  12. Jan 12, 2026 #248: Ayar: Children of the Sun
    Ben, Trey, and Jordan discuss the new action selection minigame speculation bonanza Ayar: Children of the Sun. Plus discussion of Agent Avenue, Twilight Imperium Thunder's Edge, Silos, and A Place for All My Books. 00:00 - Intro / Traitors 9:20 - Silos 18:46 - Agent Avenue 31:36 - Pacts 35:36 - A Place for All My Books 44:11 - Twilight Imperium Thunder's Edge 57:49 - Ayar: Children of the Sun review
  13. Dec 24, 2025 #247: Old King's Crown
    Matt and Jordan review Old King's Crown, the impressive lane battling asymmetric card flipping game from first time designer Pablo Clark.
  14. Dec 15, 2025 #246: Game Brain Holiday Gift Extravaganza
    Ben and Paul are here to save your holiday season! Need a game to buy for that special someone? Or even that UNspecial someone? We have some ideas for you. Plus, some strategies for how to teach games to the most stubborn, unfocused, and downright difficult people of all time: your family. 00:00 - Intro 04:00 - Recent Plays 04:12 - Food Chain Magnate 17:17 - Ito 22:36 - Ayar, Shinjuku, and Tag Team 26:36 - The Game…
  15. Dec 8, 2025 Solo Mode #10: Kingdom Death Simulator
    Matty introduces you to the neat world of Kingdom Death on your compooter. Watch the pod on YouTube: https://youtu.be/q3Bf7JYMhJQ Check the game out here: https://shop.kingdomdeath.com/
  16. Nov 24, 2025 #245 BGG.CON 2025
    Matt, Ben, Trey, Tom and Jordan travel to Dallas, Texas for BGG.CON 2025 and don't see the sun for four entire days. Many games were played, all were enjoyed. Well, almost all.
  17. Nov 10, 2025 #244 Speakeasy
    Ben, Trey, and Paul review the new Vital Lacerda board game Speakeasy. Plus, recent plays of The Old King's Crown and Night Soil. 00:00 - Intro 03:55 - The Old King's Crown 11:16 - Night Soil 18:40 - 18Cuba 19:20 - Speakeasy
  18. Nov 5, 2025 Solo Mode #9: 10 Favorite Solo Modes Since the Last Solo Mode
    It's been two years since the last Solo Mode! How did that happen? Who cares! Stop harping on it. Let's move past it with love and kindness. Anyhoo here are the 10 Best solo modes I've played since the last Solo Mode Episode. Which was two years ago. We know, Jesus, get over it.
  19. Oct 27, 2025 #243: Fate of the Fellowship
    Matt, Trey and Jordan take a look at Matt Leacock's Lord of the Rings: Fate of the Fellowship, discuss multiplayer co-ops and dive into this year's Essen crop. You can also watch this whole episode live on our Youtube channel! https://youtu.be/IbkiM4ZLdNg
  20. Sep 15, 2025 #242: Oranges & Lemons
    Ben and Paul do a deep dive review on the cozy, classic-feeling worker placement game Oranges & Lemons. Plus, recent plays of Cargo Empire, Spicy, Fromage, Kites, Ito, and Guards of Atlantis II. 00:00 Intro 04:08 Kites 09:35 Cargo Empire 15:49 Guards of Atlantis II 28:02 Spicy 34:56 Fromage 39:50 Ito 48:19 Review game - Oranges & Lemons
  21. Aug 18, 2025 #241: Trains + Mascots
    Ben and Jordan check in on some recent game sessions - some short, some long, and some VERY long. Ben has some things to say about hot new games Lightning Train and Shinjuku. Jordan then shares some impressions about 1817 and Defense of Procyon III. Plus, an epic breakdown of another epic Twilight Imperium session, and we wrap things up with the game that maybe made us happiest: Hot Streak. Be sure to follow us on…
  22. Jul 28, 2025 #240: Revitalizing Game Night
    Ben and Paul talk about recent plays of Eclipse, Scape Goat, and 23 Knives. Plus, the two explore the question: what happens if game night becomes stale? 00:00 Intro 04:50 Eclipse 13:56 Land & Freedom 17:28 Scape Goat 32:39 Man-Eating House 38:31 Gadget Trick 42:15 Age of Innovation 44:10 Ito 47:08 23 Knives 59:42 Dune / Discussion topic: how to revitalize game night
  23. Jul 7, 2025 #239: Transgalactic Fails, Battles, and Uprisings
    Matt is back on the pod for a very big rundown of some noteworthy game sessions: some amazing, others not so much. Matt, Jordan, and Ben are going around the horn with a chunky board game roundup. 00:00 Intro 03:12 Daggerheart 18:01 Fiasco 21:08 Transgalactica 30:03 Corps of Discovery / Manifest Destiny 36:55 Oranges & Lemons 45:27 Toy Battle 52:56 Nusfjord 01:01:10 Dune Imperium Uprising 01:10:31 Innovation…
  24. Jun 16, 2025 #238: Moon Colony Bloodbath + Endeavor Deep Sea
    Ben, Paul, and Trey discuss first impressions of two big games: Moon Colony Bloodbath and Endeavor Deep Sea. Somehow, we all got mad at each other in each game. Fun! We also chat about recent game plays of Dune Imperium and Wavelength, and extra bonus: the return of Games on the Brain! 00:00 Intro 00:57 Game Rooms 08:05 Dune Imperium 21:44 Wavelength 33:49 Ito 41:37 Landmarks of the Lost Atlas 51:40 Oranges &…
  25. May 5, 2025 #237 Asian Tigers
    Ben, Paul, and Jordan go deep on the color-coded agony machine that is Asian Tigers. Plus, chatter about Ito, We All Take From the River, and Elder Scrolls. 00:00 Intro 05:21 Elder Scrolls 12:59 Ito 33:13 Rail on the Hill 38:19 Founders of Gloomhaven 41:55 Mr. Pai Pai 44:17 Gibberers 53:06 We All Take From The River 01:05:53 Guards of Atlantis, Land and Freedom updates 01:07:33 Asian Tigers review
  26. Apr 9, 2025 #236 Galactic Cruise
    Ben, Trey, and Jordan review the 2025 space tourism game Galactic Cruise. Plus initial impressions of Molly House, Gibberers, and Land and Freedom. Jordan also gives an update on 5 v 5 Guards of Atlantis, and Trey has fresh thoughts on Dune Imperium, Keyflower, and Avalon.
  27. Mar 23, 2025 #235 Civolution
    Stefan Feld's epic kitchen sink game Civolution was one of the biggest releases of 2024. With an hour teach, a million mechanics, and a wild theme, does this beast crumble under its own weight or triumph in maximalist glory? Ben, Paul, and Jordan discuss. Plus, the three weigh in on the March Meepleness Bracket and share thoughts on recent plays of Guards of Atlantis II, Galactic Cruise, and Eternal Decks. 00:00…
  28. Mar 17, 2025 Table Scraps 03: Playing the Pity Card and The Truth About Sushi
    It's two episodes for the price of one. Come join for a double header of Table Scraps. First, Ben and Paul talk about what pity cards you can and can't play at game night: the "bad day" card, the "I've been out of town" card, and so many more. Then we get down to the real pressing questions: if games were sushi, what sushi would they be? Be sure to subscribe to Table Scraps on Youtube here:…
  29. Mar 10, 2025 #233 SETI
    Ben, Trey, and special guest Chris dive deep with the rotating space hotness SETI. Plus, talk about a marathon session of 1817. 00:00 Intro 12:10 1817 25:09 Railways of the Lost Atlas 30:50 Whistle Mountain 33:04 SETI
  30. Feb 17, 2025 #232: Men-Nefer
    In this episode of Game Brain, Ben and Paul dive deep into the ancient world with a full review of Men-Nefer, exploring its mechanics, strategy, and whether it’s an classic Egyptian Euro (oxymoron?) in the making. But that’s not all—we also break down Mind MGMT, Serenissima, and DroPolter, dissecting the mind games, economic battles, and dexterity highjinks within these standout titles. Plus, we check in on The…
  31. Feb 3, 2025 Table Scraps 02: What If I'm Late For Game Night?
    Ben and Paul talk about punctuality and game night: what do you do when you're running late? When is it okay to run late? What do we owe those who are late? And what about showing up too early? It's all about timing and game night.
  32. Jan 20, 2025 #230: Best of 2024
    Matt, Paul, Trey, Tom, Jordan, and Ben convene to discuss their top games of the year. Plus, awards in categories such as "Best New To Me Game," "Biggest Disappointment," and "Best Expansion." We had a variety of audio issues in this episode; so apologies in advance for the not amazing sound quality. Drew Conley Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-drew-dcon-rebuild-after-eaton-fire-loss
  33. Jan 13, 2025 #229 2024 Navel-Gazing
    Ben and Paul discuss their favorite gaming sessions of 2024. Then, in advance of a future Game Brain top 10 episode (or something in that mold), Ben shares his favorite non-top 10 games of last year, specifically #25-#11. This list will make some listeners angry, and Ben apologizes in advance. Please help our friend Drew recover from the devastating wild fires here in Los Angeles. Find his GoFundMe here:…
  34. Jan 7, 2025 Table Scraps 01: How to Get a Famous Lady to Play Games With You
    Welcome to Table Scraps, a new board game chat show here at Game Brain. We'll be posting these eps from time to time, and if the tech gods are kind to us, there will even be a video component. Today Ben and Paul chat about the sort of games Anna Scott (not a real person), Barack Obama, and Erin Brockovitch would enjoy, and then they explore how to get someone like Jennifer Lawrence to play Catan. Because it could…
  35. Dec 30, 2024 #227 Living Up To The Hype
    The new hotness has flooded the marketplace, and Ben and Jordan are here to make sense of it. Which new releases live up to the hype, exceed it, and fall short of it? We cover a lot of ground; so buckle up! 00:00 Introduction 11:22 Kraftwagen: Age of Engineering 13:00 Stress Botics 14:48 Unconscious Mind 16:47 Landmarks 18:08 Shackleton Base 21:00 Gaia Project: The Lost Fleet 25:44 Harmonies 31:19 Age of Rail:…
  36. Dec 16, 2024 #226 Shackleton Base
    Ben and Paul deep dive the new area control, tableau-building, moon-exploiting, corporation-pleasing game "Shackleton Base." They also discuss new hotness Civolution as well as Fromage and Men-Nefer. Ben also offers up some family game suggestions for the holidays - all while attempting labored "Wicked" puns.
  37. Dec 4, 2024 #225: Sprue'd Up! #2
    Matt and Jordan return to the world of miniature wargaming to get you up to speed on all of their recent adventures.
  38. Nov 4, 2024 #224 Gaia Project: The Lost Fleet
    Ben, Trey, and Paul go deep on The Lost Fleet, a hot new expansion for Gaia Project. Plus, initial impressions from fresh Essen releases SETI, Asian Tigers, and Shackleton Base. 0:00:00 Introduction0:09:45 SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence0:30:15 Asian Tigers0:44:50 La Famiglia: The Great Mafia War0:46:15 Shackleton Base: A Journey to the Moon1:03:05 Captain Flip1:03:35 The Gang1:18:15 Gadget…
  39. Oct 28, 2024 #223: Sprue'd Up! #1
    Join Matt and Jordan for the first episode of "Sprue'd Up!", an occasional Game Brain offshoot about two euro gamers taking their first steps into the world of miniature wargaming. Star Wars: ShatterpointWarhammer 40,000: Kill Team
  40. Oct 7, 2024 #222 Dazed and Enthused
    Ben, Trey, and Paul explore the importance of enthusiasm at the game table. Plus, recent plays of KCaloria, Zoo Tycoon, and Trey's first ever game of Twilight Imperium 4th Ed.... 0:00:00 Introduction0:04:27 kCaloria First ImpressionsWe All Take From the River0:16:20 Zoo Tycoon First Impressions0:38:50 Further Twilight Imperium 4th Ed. discussion 3 of a Kind1:22:35 Episode Topic: Enthusiasm - What we bring to the…
  41. Sep 25, 2024 #221: Rise & Fall
    Matt, Jordan, and Trey track the rise and fall of Jordan's relationship with Paul. We also review Rise and Fall! 0:00:00 Introduction0:03:50 True Confessions: Mini PaintingCoraQuestHeroscapeWarhammer: Kill TeamStar Wars: Shatterpoint0:14:05 Matt's Essen Most WantedAsian TigersCivolutionBlack ForestJoyrideAndromeda's EdgeShackleton Base: A Journey to the MoonSaltfjordPhoenix New OrizonSpectacularRebirth0:21:10…
  42. Sep 9, 2024 #220: Windmill Valley
    Ben, Tom, and Paul do a deep dive on the midweight, gear-turning Euro Windmill Valley. Plus, early impressions of Rise & Fall, some hot takes on Distilled, and flop sessions of Lost Atlas and Things in Rings. 00:00 - Intro 09:19 - Distilled 23:08 - Rise & Fall 44:03 - Railways of the Lost Atlas 56:16 - 18RoyalGorge 58:59 - Kutna Hora 01:01:42 - Things in Rings 01:05:55 - Windmill Valley
  43. Aug 19, 2024 #219: Gamechella 2024
    Ben and Paul talk about recent plays of Windmill Valley, Blades in the Dark, and Fields of Arle. Plus, a gaming weekend in Palm Springs leads to hot takes on Things in Rings, Wilmot's Warehouse, Hollywood 1947, Forrest Shuffle, and Plantagenet, among others. Oh, and Covid too, but that's a minor wrinkle. 00:07:31 - Windmill Valley 00:21:36 - Fields of Arle 00:29:56 - Blades in the Dark 00:43:45 - Plantagenet…
  44. Jul 29, 2024 #218: Railways of the Lost Atlas
    Ben, Trey, and Paul deep dive the new 18xx innovator "Railways of the Lost Atlas." Also, the three discuss recent plays of "Terraforming Mars: Prelude 2,” "Pampero,” and “Twilight Imperium, 4th Edition.” 0:00:00 Introduction0:04:08 Terraforming Mars: Prelude 20:16:12 Twilight Imperium 4th Ed0:36:50 Pampero0:53:05 Concordia: Balearica1:01:00 Age of Innovation1:11:45 Game Review: Railways of the Lost Atlas - Find…
  45. Jul 15, 2024 #217: ARCS
    Matt and Jordan are joined by friend-of-the-pod Drew Conley to review inarguably the biggest board game release thus far of 2024: ARCS by Cole Wehrle and Leder Games. 0:00:00 IntroductionCascaderoSlay the Spire0:28:30 Game Review: ArcsWehrlegig GamesFind Drew at https://www.drewconleycomposer.com/ and https://www.youtube.com/@theboardgamecomposerFind more Jordan at https://www.youtube.com/@OptimalPlay - Find Etamar…
  46. Jul 1, 2024 #216: Catching The Wave
    Ben, Trey, and Paul talk about catching the game wave. What happens when you ride it, what happens when you miss it, and what happens when you try to start your own. Plus, plays of Arcs, 1930: The Golden Age of Airlines, and Nucleum: Australia.
  47. May 29, 2024 #215: El Burro
    Tom, Trey, and Elder review El Burro. 0:00:00 IntroductionJenny Nicholson's videoStar Wars Unlimited Expansion Shadows of the GalaxyGuards of Atlantis IIBlood on the Clocktower Concordia0:31:50 Game Review: El Burro: A La Granja GamePlanta NuboLa GranjaAgraCooper IslandTroyes - Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Instagram
  48. May 13, 2024 #214: Salton Sea
    Ben and Trey go deep into Salton Sea and also share initial impressions of Pax Penning and El Burro. Plus, the two revisit Heaven & Ale and chat about what they want out of a game store.
  49. May 7, 2024 #213: Beware the Fun Sponge
    Ben and Paul chat about some recent plays, including Salton Sea, and then Ben shamelessly attempts to communicate to Queen Games about his missing Marrakesh expansion. Afterwards, the two explore the importance of enthusiasm at a game table and the dangers of becoming the dreaded FUN SPONGE.
  50. Apr 30, 2024 #212: 2024 Golden Geek Predictions
    The 2024 Golden Geek Award nominations have just been revealed, and we're choosing faves, making endorsements, and offering sweeping predictions on which games will win. Oh and by the way, thanks to everyone who voted and nabbed us a nom! Don't worry, we're focused on the games, not shameless self-promotion (well, maybe just a little self-promotion). Plus, Ben, Jordan, and Paul talk about recent plays of Ironwood,…
  51. Apr 15, 2024 #211 Space Games!!
    Ben and Jordan talk about recent plays of Inventions, Galactic Cruise, Twilight Imperium, Arcs, and Resist. Plus, discussion about space games — what does the concept of space bring to a game, and what makes a game a SPACE GAME (as opposed to a game set in space). Notations to come.
  52. Apr 1, 2024 #210: Finger Etiquette and Games
    Ben and Paul talk about recent plays of Inventions, Terraforming Mars, and City of the Big Shoulders. Then they do a deep dive about finger etiquette and games: why does it bother us, how do we address bad behavior, and what are the most common mistakes. Shots will be fired. Takes will be hot. 00:00 - Intro 02:33 - Inventions 14:47 - Western Empires / Mega Empires 23:25 - Terraforming Mars 29:37 - 1830 33:07 - City…
  53. Mar 25, 2024 #209: Second Wind Games
    Tom, Jordan, and Ben discuss games they had shrugged off but later came to love. Plus, recent plays of Imperium Horizons, Legacies, and El Grande. 00:00 - Intro 00:06 - Legacies 26:11 - Avalon 29:14 - El Grande 34:14 - Franchise 39:31 - Second Wind Games 41:51 - Modern Art 46:26 - Imperium Horizons 54:37 - Dune Imperium: Uprising 01:02:22 - Android: Netrunner 01:08:42 - Black Angel 01:14:26 - A Feat for Odin…
  54. Mar 18, 2024 #208: Let's Go To Japan
    Trey, Ben, and Dmitry review the 2024 release Let's Go To Japan. 0:00:00 IntroductionWatch What Crappens wins Best Pop Culture PodcastThe Traitors0:08:48 Games on the BrainBaseball Highlights 2045 on GamefoundStar Wars: UnlimitedTry online at Force TableNetrunner at Nullsignal.gamesKnarrMarrakeshCuzco00:51:30 Game Review: Let's Go to JapanStationfallSanta Monica - Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook…
  55. Feb 26, 2024 #207: Exploring Root, Agonizing in Cuzco
    Ben, Matt, and Paul sit down to talk about games they're going deep with (Root), and games that are brutalizing them (Cuzco). And everything in between. 00:08:04 - Traitors & Avalon 00:14:10 - Root 00:39:34 - Franchise 00:50:36 - Netrunner 01:07:10 - Cuzco 01:25:00 - Dinosaur Gauge 01:29:49 - Legacies 01:36:52 - Lunar 01:38:00 - Tournament at Avalon, Mino Dice 01:40:00 - Boon Lake: Artifacts 01:43:45 - Shikoku 1889
  56. Feb 11, 2024 #206 Thunder Road: Vendetta
    Special guest Jennifer Schlickbernd joins Trey to review Thunder Road: Vendetta and discuss starter modes in boardgames. 0:00:00 Introduction0:02:35 Recent PlaysMerkatorArboreaPirates of Maricaibo20 StrongkCaloria launches on Kickstarter0:27:10 Game Review: Thunder Road: VendettaCar Wars (1981)Thunder Road (1986)The White Castle (2023)0:56:45 Discussion - Learning Modes in GamesEvacuationThinkerThemer's…
  57. Jan 29, 2024 #205: How to Choose a Game for Game Night
    Ben and Paul discuss recent plays of Bloodstones, Bruxelles 1893, and Apiary. Then they try to figure out what's the best way for a group to select a game to play. Is it a democratic process? A dictatorial one? Or maybe just a roll of the dice. 15:47 - Apiary 19:22 - Horseless Carriage 23:20 - Bruxelles 1893: The Belle Epoque 36:03 - Bloodstones 51:55 - How to choose a game?
  58. Jan 22, 2024 The Best Boardgames of 2023!
    Hosts Matt, Tom, Trey, and Ben unite for our list of the best boardgames of 2023! 0:00:00 Introduction0:05:10 Contest ResultsSol: Last Days of a Star0:18:35 Game Brain's Top Boardgames of 20230:20:04 T16 Great Western Trail: New Zealand0:25:20 T16 Inferno Guelphs and Ghibellines Vie for Tuscany, 1259-12610:27:30 T13 Bloodstones0:29:00 T13 Scholars of the South Tigris0:32:00 T13 Thunder Road: Vendetta0:34:35 12…
  59. Jan 8, 2024 #203 Dude, Where's My Keshi?
    Ben and Paul catch up on the games they played over the 2023 holiday break. Afterwards they reflect on their favorite play sessions and new-to-them games. Strangely enough, they seem to gravitate towards their favorite meltdowns, which is a commentary on something, not sure what. Games discussed include Marrakesh, Dude, K2, Age of Steam, and Manhattan Project 2: Minutes to Midnight. Timestamps to come...
  60. Dec 18, 2023 #202: Evacuation
    Trey, Tom, and Ben review Evacuation as we evacuate 2023. 0:00:00 Introduction0:05:22 Recent PlaysAgricolaForbidden StarsBloodstonesManhattan Project 2: Minutes to MidnightDaybreakEnter the contest to win a copy of Sol:Last Days of a Staremail us at [email protected]:51:10 Game Review: EvacuationThe games of Vladimir Suchý - Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Twitter - Instagram
  61. Dec 11, 2023 #201: Kutna Hora: The City of Silver
    Ben, Trey, and Jordan discuss the city-building, dynamic economy game Kutná Hora: The City of Silver. Plus recent plays of Horseless Carriage, Nucleum, and more.
  62. Dec 4, 2023 #200 Our 200th Episode Extravaganza!
    Hosts Matt, Tom, Trey, and Ben unite for our 200th episode and revisit our favorite games from our time on the podcast. 0:00:00 Introduction0:05:45 BGGCon ReportSol: Last Days of a StarTabletop NetworkDaimyo: Battle for JapanRats of WistarKutná Hora: The City of SilverApiary Space BEES!EvacuationWhite CastlekCaloria0:58:00 Other PlaysUr: 1830 BCSeptimaEvenfall1:16:05 Our Favorite Games of the PodcastBen #3 - Red…
  63. Nov 27, 2023 Solo Mode #8: Earthborne Rangers and the Co-Op LCG Renaissance
    A new Solo Mode has arrived, just in time for Matt to take you down the rabbit hole of Earthborne Rangers and the current LCG renaissance.
  64. Nov 13, 2023 #199: Chatting with Ken Kuhn of GMT Games
    Ben catches up with Ken Kuhn of GMT Games, who talks about his company, what's coming down the pipeline, and of course 18XX (and war games too!). They also chat about recent plays of Sky Team, Evacuation, 535, Kutná Hora, The Plum Island Horror, Arborea, and 1880. Time codes to come!
  65. Oct 30, 2023 #198: The White Castle
    Tom and Trey review The White Castle, discuss what makes a game "elegant," and they each give their top 10 Elegant Games. 0:00:00 IntroductionHarold & Kumar Go to White CastleBGGConTabletop NetworkRats of Wistar0:16:50 Quick Discussion of EleganceThe GalleristThunder Road: Vendetta0:25:45 Game Review: The White Castle0:56:30 Our Top 10 Elegant Games - Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group -…
  66. Oct 16, 2023 #197 First Look at Nucleum
    Tom and Elder talk about their early play(s) of Nucleum, and other recent games of note.
  67. Oct 9, 2023 #196: Direct Aggression
    Ben and Trey discuss direct aggression: how does it make them feel, when does it work, and how should it be managed. Plus, discussions of Coffee Traders, Voodoo Prince, and Sons of Anarchy: Men of Mayhem 0:00:00 Introduction0:02:35 Games on the BrainCoffee TradersHere I StandVoodoo PrinceGreat Western Trail New ZealandLorenzo il Magnifico: The Pazzi ConspiracySons of Anarchy: Men of MayhemThunder Road:…
  68. Sep 25, 2023 #195: Voidfall Preview
    Ben, Candice, and Jordan discuss some early initial impressions of Voidfall, the new game from Mindclash. This is not a review - just some thoughts :) Plus, some chat about recent plays and playtests! 00:02:27 - Trajan 00:10:57 - Age of Innovation & Gaia Project 00:15:06 - Skymines 00:20:48 - Great Western Trail NZ 00:27:11 - 18EUS 00:33:50 - Voidfall 01:19:45 - Here I Stand
  69. Sep 18, 2023 #194 The Rich and The Good
    Ben and Paul discuss recent plays of Oathsworn, Here I Stand, and Tortuga 1667. Then we go deeper with the 2023 English release of The Rich and the Good (formerly Hab & Gut). 00:00:00 - Intro 00:04:23 - Oathsworn 00:26:56 - Tortuga 1667 00:35:16 - Age of Innovation update 00:45:31 - Magnate: The First City 00:56:14 - Lorenzo il Magnifico: The Pazzi Conspiracy 01:05:06 - Here I Stand 01:17:58 - The Rich and the Good
  70. Sep 11, 2023 #193 Great Western Trail: New Zealand
    Tom and Trey talk about lots of newer plays, their Strategicon weekend, and review the new Great Western Trail game: New Zealand! 0:00:00 IntroductionStrategicon ReviewCrisisMCDM RPGNinja Star GamesReputationAnachronyAge of Innovation0:27:00 Tom's Essen PreviewAmong CultistsThe White CastleEvacuationReworldShipyard 2nd Ed.0:40:30 Review: Great Western Trail New Zealand1:21:05 First Thoughts - Ark Nova: Marine…
  71. Aug 28, 2023 #192 Aegean Sea
    Tom, Matt, and Trey go on an epic journey to the Aegean Sea. 0:00:00 IntroductionDune Imperium0:11:27 Voidfall0:29:57 Review: Aegean SeaInnovationGlory to Rome - Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Twitter - Instagram
  72. Aug 14, 2023 #191 Matt's Back, and He's Excited
    Matt Robinson is back from his summer travels, and he's psyched to discuss his first play of Great Western Trail New Zealand. Ben follows up with revised thoughts about Skymines. Matt then previews Voidfall, and the two share their initial thoughts on Age of Innovation. Plus: CoraQuest, Lowlands, and The Rich and the Good. Timestamps to come.
  73. Aug 7, 2023 #190 Age of Innovation: A First Look
    Trey, Tom, and Jordan take a first look at Age of Innovation. 0:00:00 Introduction0:05:00 Games on the BrainThe Crew10 Days in the USADead LastThe Barracks EmperorsSavage BowlLe PlateauTichu (again!)Iocane Productions on FacebookDisney LorcanaLast LightImperium: The ContentionReacting to the Past0:51:05 First Impressions: The Age of InnovationTerra MysticaGaia ProjectTerra NovaClans of Caledonia - Find Etamar at…
  74. Jul 31, 2023 #189: Amsterdam
  75. Jul 24, 2023 #188 Big Games, Bigger Feelings
  76. Jul 4, 2023 Solo Mode #7: The Greatest Solo Mode I've Ever Played
  77. Jun 19, 2023 #187 THE TRICK TAKING EPISODE
    Matt, Jordan, and Dmitry are joined by our friend David to do a deep dive on trick-taking card games. 0:00:00 IntroductionIntro to David0:07:10 Defining terms and the genreTrick-takersShedders and Climbers0:13:00 Our history with card gamesHeartsBullshitBridge0:21:45 The game that made us love card gamesNokosu DiceSchadenfreudeCat In The BoxThe CrewMü0:41:30 Our top trick-takersEuchreScout9 LivesDurak Bug Council…
  78. Jun 5, 2023 #186 War of the Ring: The Card Game
    Matt and Trey are joined by the newest member to our podcast, Jordan Sayyah, to review The War of the Ring: The Card Game 0:03:00 Intro to JordanJSaysYeah on Discord0:08:00 Games we played this weekAge of SteamNanaStartupsInside Job0:30:00 Review: War of the Ring: The Card GameWar of the RingQuartermaster GeneralRace for the GalaxyRoll for the Galaxy- Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group -…
  79. May 29, 2023 #185 Games On Our Brains, May 2023
    Tom, Trey, and Ben talk about everything from the Spiel des Jahres, to gaming in Japan, to all their recent discoveries. Iki1880: China Bug Council of BackyardiaNokosu DiceVoodoo PrinceOrleans: Trade & IntrigueTortuga 1667 FindorffFuture Review: War of the Ring: The Card Game- Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Twitter - Instagram
  80. May 22, 2023 #184 Wayfarers of the South Tigris
    Trey and Elder review Wayfarers of the South Tigris. 0:00:00 Introduction0:02:13 Games on the BrainGalactic Starcuiser closesWoodcraftGenotype 0:20:45 Review: Wayfarers of the South TigrisScholars of the South Tigris- Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Twitter - Instagram
  81. May 1, 2023 #183 Hegemony: Lead Your Class To Victory
    Tom and Ben talk about our recent Golden Geek Nomination and deconstruct the special sauce that makes Hegemony so great!
  82. Apr 17, 2023 #182 Tragedy Looper
    Tom, Ben, and Trey circle back to the review the new edition of Tragedy Looper. 0:00:00 Introduction0:04:00 Twilight Imperium Fourth Edition0:12:10 HegemonyThe Cost0:38:00 Great Western Trail: Agentina0:49:20 Fast Sloths0:59:05 Foundations of RomeRa1:09:10 Tragedy Looper: New TragediesBGG First EditionWhiz Kids Pre-order- Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Twitter - Instagram
  83. Apr 10, 2023 #181: Games Vs. Puzzles
    Tom, Ben, and Dmitry discuss game night drama, whether or not they'll ever receive Hegemony, and the difference between games and puzzles.
  84. Mar 27, 2023 #180: Our TOP Board Games of 2022!
    Tom, Matt, Trey and Ben gather to reveal their Top 5 Games of 2022! 0:00:00 Introduction0:05:40 Games we played this weekRed CathedralStationfallBarrage: The Nile AffairBoonlakeBlack Angel0:32:20 Top Games of 2022LacrimosaDeal with the DevilGuards of Atlantis IIReady Set Bet56:30 Weather MachineMosaic: A Story of CivilizationAutobahn1:22:30 Blood on the ClocktowerBen's #1: CarnegieTrey's #1: The…
  85. Mar 13, 2023 #179 The Red Cathedral + Contractors
    Ben, Trey, Elder, and Paul discuss the 2020 game The Red Cathedral and its 2022 expansion The Red Cathedral: Contractors. 00:02:40 - Ramen Fury 00:07:01 - Scholars of the South Tigris 00:13:30 - Hegemony 00:19:27 - Tzolkin 00:20:26 - Robotech Reconstruction 00:38:23 - Woodcraft 00:43:40 - Imperial Steam 00:59:34 - Red Cathedral + Contractors
  86. Mar 6, 2023 #178 A First Look At Stationfall
  87. Feb 27, 2023 #177 The Blanket Episode
    Ben lost power in the great LA blizzard of 2023, but just because his house was dark didn't mean the podcast had to be. And so Ben and Paul bravely wrapped themselves in blankets and churned out an episode in a heatless house, sharing their gaming stories of the past two weeks: Mosaic, Deal with the Devil, Crisis, Red Cathedral and several others. Time codes: Mosaic: 05:54 Santiago 18:14 Wiz War: 25:53 Glory to…
  88. Feb 13, 2023 #176: Mosaic A Story of Civilization
    Ben, Tom, and Trey deep dive Mosaic: A Story of Civilization and discuss what makes a civ game... a civ game? Plus, recent plays of Dune and Cosmic Frog.
  89. Jan 30, 2023 #175 Horseless Carriage First Impressions
    Trey gets it in gear with Tom and Dmitry and their first impressions of Splotter's Horseless Carriage. 0:00:00 Introduction0:06:45 Traitors Talk0:21:10 Games on the BrainDmitry's 5x5 List: Tichu, Barrage, Indonesia, Panamax, AutobahnMosaicWestern EmpiresThrough the AgesNations Trey's 5x5 List: Mosaic, Autobahn, Imperial Steam, On Mars, Horseless CarriageTrickerion0:45:20 Endurance0:46:45 Tragedy Looper0:47:50…
  90. Jan 23, 2023 #174 The Joy of Splotter
    Talking about our favorite Splotter games in anticipation of "Horseless Carriage." Plus, The Traitors, which blends social deduction party games with reality TV.
  91. Jan 16, 2023 #173 Lords of Vegas
    Ben and Paul talk about Lords of Vegas as well as fairness and games and the new reality series "The Traitors." 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:55 - The Traitors 00:17:47 - Fairness + Winning Discussion 00:47:41 - Vast: The Mysterious Manor 00:53:56 - Weather Machine 01:01:19 - 18Mag 01:11:41 - Mind MGMT 01:15:44 - Lords of Vegas
  92. Jan 9, 2023 #172 Back from Break!
    We're back from a busy holiday season, and we have games to talk about: Woodcraft, Imperial Steam, Wayfarers of the South Tigris, and Matt's first ever game of Twilight Imperium!
  93. Dec 19, 2022 #171: Tiletum
    Tom, Candice, and Ben talk about Tiletum. Plus, Candice tells us all about the games she played and people she met from five back-to-back conventions!
  94. Dec 12, 2022 #170: Autobahn
    Ben, Trey, and Dmitry discuss the 2022 game, Autobahn. Plus, recent plays of Deal with the Devil, Lacrimosa, and Atiwa. Plus, they discuss a recent piece in the New York Times about strategy games.
  95. Dec 5, 2022 Solo Mode #6: The State of Solo Modes in 2022
    Matt discusses the state of the solo mode in 2022 by looking at the solo modes from this season's top Essen games.
  96. Nov 21, 2022 Bats and Turkeys
    Ben, Tom, and Paul chat about recent plays of Atiwa, Tiletum, Fracis Drake, and Maria. Plus, recommendations for good games to play at Thanksgiving.
  97. Nov 14, 2022 Revive
    All four hosts are here this week to talk about a whole mess of hot Essen releases, as well as a deep dive on one of the season's biggest games, Revive. 00:05:30 Ready Set Bet00:10:30 Oak00:19:50 Autobahn00:30:30 Tiletum00:57:30 Revive
  98. Nov 7, 2022 #166: Games, Games, Games
    00:00:00 Introduction00:09:15 Maricaibo: The UprisingFrancis Drake00:23:00 Let's Go! To JapanNote: Josh Wood is NOT the designer of Isle of Cats - that's Frank WestJosh Wood's best known games are Cat Lady and Santa Monica00:32:30 Ready, Set, Bet00:45:45 Autobahn01:01:45 Oak01:08:50 Revive01:15:40 Federation01:35:15 Discussion: Narrative and the move toward Baroque design02:03:10 Thank you and outro
  99. Oct 31, 2022 #165: Space Station Phoenix
    Tom, Paul, and Elder talk about recent plays of "Food Chain Magnate" and "Space Station Phoenix" and then games they would play for the rest of their lives. Plus, Tom has more news from Essen.
  100. Oct 17, 2022 #164: Skymines
    Matt, Tom, Ben and Dmitry discuss the 2022 release "Skymines" (aka Moon-basa) as well as preview their most anticipated games of Essen 2022 and give four Essen games a brief "rulebook review".
  101. Oct 10, 2022 #163: Western Empires
    Tom, Trey, Paul, and Ben discuss the 2019 release "Western Empires" as well as "On Mars," "Ticket to Ride," "Viticulture," and "Food Chain Magnate."
  102. Oct 3, 2022 #162: John Company Second Edition
    Ben and Matt revisit Grand Austria Hotel with the Let's Waltz expansion before doing a deep dive with their initial impressions of the 2022 release John Company, Second Edition by Cole Wehrle. Afterwards, they discuss the expectations they carry — perhaps unfairly — into a game night.
  103. Sep 26, 2022 #161: Revisiting The Transcontinental and Carnegie with Ben, Tom, and Trey
    Now that we've finally notched some in-person plays The Transcontinental and Carnegie, we share our thoughts about what's changed in person versus online. Plus, we talk about the modular game boards that pique our interest and recent plays of Tzolkin, Fresh Fish, and Ethnos.
  104. Sep 19, 2022 #160: "Stroganov" with Trey, Ben, Tom, and Dmitry
    00:00:00 Introduction: A discussion of Cossacks and the Steppe00:04:30 Avalon Poll results and discussionTom calls our listeners "trolls" and compares them to the "Silent Majority."00:08:20 Game NightHighly abbreviated Avalon discussion00:09:30 WormholesTrajanMore highly abbreviated Avalon talk wiithout talking about the actual game.Underwater CitiesBen does a Paul impression. Tom does a Mike impressionThe first of…
  105. Sep 12, 2022 #159: How We Spent Our Summer Vacation
  106. Jun 27, 2022 Round 16, Turn 7: "1848: Australia" with Ben, Candice, and Paul
    Ben, Candice, and Paul review "1848: Australia" and then discuss how to demystify the 18xx genre. 0:00;00 - Introduction: Welcome Ben, Omnigamer Candice and Gamebreaker Paul: Railways of Australia, 1848, 18xx, Avalon, Tank Duel, TI4, Die Macher, Tribune 0:09:07 - This Week’s Game Night: Eclipse; Eclipse: Second Dawn; (TI) Tzolk’in (Tribes expansion) Pax Pamir 2nd ed, The Climbers, (Santiago) Railways of the World…
  107. Jun 20, 2022 Round 16, Extra Turn: Game Sommelier Roundup with Paul
    Ben and Paul make up for episodes of neglected game sommelier segments with this mega roundup of questions we're overdue to answer. 0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Ben and Paul 0:04;39 - This Week’s Game Night: 1848, Dice Realms, Taverns of Tiefenthal, (Russian Railroads) 18Ireland 0:23:11 - Board Game Sommelier 0:24:10: Games for an Adult Community: Scrabble, Catan, Wavelength, Tichu, Telestrations, Ticket to…
  108. Jun 13, 2022 Round 16, Turn 6: "Time of Crisis" with Tom, Candice, and Mike
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Tom, Candice and Mike 0:09:57 - This Week’s Game Night: Carnegie Deluxe (Gingkopolis, Carson City, Troyes,) Time of Crisis, (Railways of the World) Battle for Rokogon, Dale of Merchants, (El Grande, Babylonia, Wiz War) 0:30:00- Game News: BGG Con 2022, (Ark Nova, Messina) Cat in the Box, Undaunted: Stalingrad, Undaunted: Reinforcements, (Undaunted: Normandy, Undaunted: Africa) San…
  109. Jun 6, 2022 Round 16, Turn 05: "Root" with Trey, Tom, and jim pinto
    Trey is joined by Tom and RPG designer jim pinto to review Root and explore asymmetry in games. 0:00:00 Message about audio quality0:01:08 Introductionjim pinto at Post World GamesA Good Book for Bad GMsDogs in the Vinyard0:20:50 Game Night Clank: A Deck-Building AdventureThe HungerRicochet RobotsThe Resistance: AvalonShadows over CamelotGlass RoadTime of Crisis: The Roman Empire in Turmoil0:30:00 Game NewsTerra…
  110. May 30, 2022 Round 16, Turn 4: Ginkgopolis
    Ben, Dmitry, and Paul discuss the 2012 game "Ginkgopolis" as well as its expansion "Ginkgopolis: The Experts." Plus, what makes us want to give a game a second chance. 0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Ben, Philosophical Gamer Dmitry, and Game Breaker Paul. 0:04:29 - This Week’s Game Nights: Avalon, Lowlands, Ark Nova, Time of Crisis, (Food Chain Magnate) Caesar!, (Blitzkrieg!) K2, Healthy Heart Hospital (Jaws, Top…
  111. May 23, 2022 Round 16, Turn 3: Perseverance
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Game Enthusiast Matt #1, Game BreakerPaul and Game Designer Trey. 0:03:45 - This Week’s Game Night: Perseverance, Crescent Moon (Root, Oath, Pax games) Agricola 0:13:03 - This Week’s Game News: Azul, Master Chocolatier; Origins reinstates mask requirements; Awaken Realms Castles of Burgundy (Castles of Mad King Ludwig); Evergreen (Photosynthesis) 0:28:50 - Games on the Brain:…
  112. May 18, 2022 Round 16, Turn 2: "Crisis" with Tom, Ben, and Paul
    0:00 INTRO 10:33 GAME NIGHT Perseverance Avalon Crescent Moon Crisis Scapegoat Letter Jam Foundations of Rome Nemesis: Lockdown 56:00 GAME NEWS Cardboard Creations Trailblazer The Thing Dragonlance 1:10:00 REVIEW: CRISIS 1:42:48 MEMBER SEGMENT: THE SEMI-COOP GAME 2:09: 30 WRAP-UP
  113. May 16, 2022 Round 16 quick note
    Just a quick note that this week's episode will drop on Wednesday instead of the usual Monday. Thanks for your patience!
  114. May 9, 2022 Round 16, Turn 01: "Libertalia: Winds of Galecrest" with Trey, Tom, and Dmitry
    Trey is joined by Tom and Dmitry to review Libertalia:Winds of Galecrest and discuss Simultaneous Action Selection. 0:00:00 Introduction0:05:02 Game Night AvalonCrisisLignum (Teotihuacan, Caylus)0:29:10 Game NewsTerraforming Mars FREEDesperation (Fiasco, Durance, Winterhorn) Orenberger Canal (Ora et Labora, Le Havre)RaSleeping Gods,: Distant SkiesMCDM Monster BookAutobahnAge of Steam Deluxe Expansion Maps…
  115. May 2, 2022 Round 15, Turn 11: "Railways of the World" with Ben, Paul, and Candice
    Ben, Paul, and Candice review "Railways of the World" and then discuss what makes a game "fun-forward." 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:02 - Game Night —00:05:21 - Lorenzo il magnfico —00:09:15 - Avalon —00:09:58 - Crisis —00:15:57 - Forged in Steel —00:18:49 - Survive: Escape from Atlantis —00:20:58 - Tapestry —00:21:43 - 18Ireland 00:23:47 - Game News —00:24:00 - Oranienburger Kanal —00:26:35 - Anunnaki: Dawn of the Gods…
  116. Apr 25, 2022 Round 15, Turn 10: "Messina 1347" with Tom, Matt, and Dmitry
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Your Host Tom, Matt, the Game Enthusiast, and Dmitry, the Philosophical Gamer: Agricola, Avalon 0:10:10 - This Week’s Game News: Golden Geek Best Podcast Nomination, Thinker Themer and Viniculture, Autobahn (Kanban, Hanse Teutonica, Calimali, Newton, Darwin’s Journey) Arcs (Oath, John Company, Pax Pamir, El Grande, Taj Mahal, Conduttier) Septima (Brian Boru, Libertalia, Wallenstein,…
  117. Apr 10, 2022 Round 15, Extra Turn: "Hegemony" with Paul and Elder
    Ben, Paul, and Elder give their first impressions of the upcoming release, "Hegemony." 0:00:00 - Intro: Welcome Ben, Paul, and Elder: Perseverance, Anachrony, Cerebrea, Trickerion, Iberian Gauge, Crisis,Brick and Mortar, City of the Big Shoulders, New Amsterdam, Dinogenics, Dino Island, 0:21:53 - Early Impressions of Hegemony 1:54:20 - Sign Off: kirbooloni.com Hegemony late pledges
  118. Apr 4, 2022 Round 15, Turn 09: Agricola Behind the Numbers with Matt and Lumin
    Trey and Matt welcome Lumin Sperling and look at the numbers that drive competitive Agricola play. Agricola Revised Edition Lumin_S on Twitch Agricola on BoardGameArena play-agricola.com Agricola 15 Stats on BGA - Find Etamar at kirbooloni.com - Game Brain Facebook Group - Twitter - Instagram
  119. Mar 28, 2022 Round 15, Turn 8: "Arkwright: The Card Game" with Trey and Paul
    Ben, Trey, and Paul review "Arkwright: The Card Game" and then discuss what they look for and want from "card games." 0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Trey, the Game Designer, and Paul, the Game Breaker0:02:51 - This Week's Game Night: Agricola, Panamax, Hegemony, Le Havre, Evil Stepmother Playtest, Ark Nova, DC's Labyrinth Games FLGS, Roads and Boats, Secret Hitler, Forged in Steel, Messina 1347Agricola…
  120. Mar 21, 2022 Round 15, Turn 7: "Party Games" with Tom, Jake, and Mike
    INTROS: 0:00 GAME NIGHT: 09:07 Ark Nova, Messina 1347, Red Flags Over Paris, Taverns of Tiefenthal, Avalon, Panamax, Wingspan, Imperial Struggle. GAME NEWS: 21:16 Cardboard Creations, Ukranian Game Designers, Tamashii, Twin Palms, Explorers, Eastern Empires. GAME REVIEW: 44:51 Poetry for Neanderthals, Stay Cool, Letter Jam, Inhuman Conditions, So Clover. MEMBER SEGMENT: 1:33:34 Games where you play the player more…
  121. Mar 14, 2022 Round 15, Turn 6: "Civilization: A New Dawn" with Candice and Dmitry
    Ben, Candice, and Dmitry review "Civilization: A New Dawn" with the "Terra Incognita" expansion and then discuss "Ferrari Games." 0:00:00 - Intro: Welcome Candice, the Omni Gamer and Dmitry, the Philosophical Gamer 0:04:48 - This Week’s Game Night: Ark Nova, Messina 1347, So Clover, Just One, Code Names, Decrypto, Avalon, Burn Cycle, Der Spiegelstadt, (Jorgen) Nicea, Barrage, (The Great Zimbabwe) Hegemony,…
  122. Feb 28, 2022 Round 15, Turn 5: "Advanced Civilization" with Tom and Jennifer
    0:00:00 - Intro: Welcome Tom and Jennifer, the Game Pioneer 0:08:57 - This Week’s Game Night: Bitoku, Ark Nova, Gaslands, Watch What Crappens, Barrage, Tichu 0:17:06 - This Week's Game News: Overisles; Unsettled; Trey Parker's Top Ten - Western Legends, Merchants and Marauders, Abomination, Fury of Dracula, Robinson Crusoe, Auztralia, Alchemists, Star Wars Rebellion/War of the Ring, Sub Terra, Summit; Jennifer's…
  123. Feb 21, 2022 Round 15, Turn 04: "Terra Mystica" with Paul and Matt
    Trey, Paul, and Matt review "Terra Mystica" and ask "What makes a game competitive?" 00:00:00 Introduction Watch What Crappens 00:05:15 Game Night - Agricola - EconSean - RaniorGames - Lumin Sperling - Hegemony: Lead Your Class to Victory - Can't Stop - Gaia Project - Clans of Caledonia - Ark Nova - Through the Ages - Modern Art - Show Manager 00:30:22 Game News -&...
  124. Feb 14, 2022 Round 15, Turn 03: "Art Decko" with Ben, Dmitry, and Paul
    Ben, Dmitry, and Paul look at the 2019 game "Art Decko" and then discuss games as social experiences. 0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Ben, the Opinionated Gamer, Dmitry, the Philosophical Gamer, and Paul, the Game Breaker 0:08:39 - This Week’s Game Night: Tichu, Gaia Project, Can’t Stop (Just One, Code Names) Wordle, (Terra Mystica) Hegemony 0:23:30 - Game News: Concordia on Nintendo Switch, Avalon, Crystal Palace,…
  125. Feb 7, 2022 Round 15, Turn 2: "Furnace" with Tom, Jake, and Dmitry
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Tom, Jake, the Casual Gamer, and Dmitry, the Philosophical Gamer. 0:09:36 - This Week’s Game Night - Alien Fire Team Elite, Tichu on BGA, Wordle 0:29:01 - This Week’s Game News, Wavelength App, Barrage New Map, (Hanse Teutonica) Pilgrim, (18xx, Age of Steam, Tokyo Metro, Underground) Libertalia: Winds of Gale Crest (Vasco deGama, Ethnos) 0:42:00 - Review of Furnace: Brian Boru,…
  126. Jan 31, 2022 Round 15, Turn 01: "Asian Railroads" with Alfred and Candice
    Trey, Alfred, and Candice get on track with "Asian Railroads" and ask "How are games like music?" 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:32 Game Night - Santorini - Connect 4 - Wordle - Pax Viking - Arkham Horror LCG - Acricola 00:17:34 Game News - La Granja Deluxe Master Set - Fire in the Lake, the Sovereign of Discord Expansion - P500 at GMT - Game Brain BGA group LINK Post your username in Facebook group! - Gamefound…
  127. Jan 24, 2022 Round 14, Turn 12: "Bitoku" with Jennifer and Paul
    1Ben, Jennifer, and Paul discuss the 2021 game "Bitoku" and discuss what they look for and enjoy in a game group. 0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Ben, the Opinionated Gamer, Jennifer, the Game Pioneer, and Paul, The Game Breaker. The Game of Life. Blue Peg, Pink Peg. 0:08:55 - This Week’s Game Nights: Messina 1347, Ark Nova, and scheduled for Essen Day: Golem, Bitoku, Squaring Circleville, Tavanusi, Boonlake, Tokyo…
  128. Jan 17, 2022 Round 14, Turn 11: "Ark Nova" with Elder, Dmitry, and Matt
    Trey, Matt, Dmitry, and Elder talk about the Game Brain's 2021 consensus game of the Year, "Ark Nova" and ask "what makes a game immersive? 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:24 Game Night - Bitoku - Hegemony - Messina 1347 - Taverns of Tiefenthal: Open Doors - Designer Solo Mode 00:10:50 Game News - Gutenberg - Kickstarter- Viscounts Gates of Gold and Keeper of Keys 00:17:38 Game Review - Ark Nova 00:51:19 Member Segment…
  129. Jan 10, 2022 Round 14, Turn 10: "Best of 2021" with Tom, Ben, and Jennifer
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Tom, Ben, the Opinionated Gamer, and Jennifer, the Game Pioneer: Golem, Watch What Crappens Podcast, Mayveena You Tube Channel 0:11:55 - This Week's Game Night: Ark Nova, Bitoku, Stroganoff, Origins: First Builders, Santiago, Tabannusi, (Tekhenu, Tzolkin, Teotihuacan, [Taiwanitsu]) Forbidden Stars, Obsession, Art Decko, Anno 1800, Tichu, Show Manager, Captain Sonar, (Year of the…
  130. Dec 27, 2021 Round 14, Turn 09: "City Hall" with Dmitry and Paul
    Ben, Dmitry, and Paul review the 2014 release, "City Hall," and discuss the game group as an ibasho. 0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Ben, the Opinionated Host, Dmitry, The Philosophical Gamer, and Paul, the Game Breaker 0:06:20 - This Week's Game Night: Pulsar 2846, (High Frontier, Ticket to Ride,) Ark Nova, Medium, (Wavelength, Wits and Wagers,) Avalon, Once Upon a Time, The Great Wall (Perseverance, Brass,)…
  131. Dec 20, 2021 Round 14, Turn 08: "Boonlake" with Jennifer and Elder
    Trey, Jennifer, and Elder talk about the 2021 release "Boonlake" and discuss the "Cult of the New." 00:00:00 Introduction 00:04:00 Game Night - The Hunger - Space Corp: 2025-2300AD - Nuclear War - Free Ride - Fields of Arle - Witchstone - Ark Nova - Cascadia - Pulsar 2849 - Unfathomable - Battlestar Galactica 00:28:55 Game News - Asmodee purchased by Embracer Group - Candice's game overview of Imperial Steam -&...
  132. Dec 13, 2021 Round 14, Turn 7: "Brian Boru" with Tom, Candice, and Ben
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome OmniGamer Candice and Opinionated Gamer Ben 0:08:08 - This Week’s Game Night: Brian Boru, Boon Lake, Star Wars LCG, (Lord of the Rings, NetRunner Game of Thrones, Arboretum,) Avalon (Secret Hitler) Barrage, Shipyard (Clinic, Antiquity, Tramways of Vienna, Small Cities) Belratti, Brick and Mortar, Stick’um, (Black Orchestra), Spirit Island (Pandemic Legacy, Pandemic: Rising Tide)…
  133. Dec 6, 2021 Round 14, Turn 6: "Iki" with Dmitry and Paul
    0:00:00 - Introduction 0:04:11 - This Week's Game Night: Free Ride, Avalon, Brian Baru, Darwin's Journey, Advanced Civilization, (Eclipse) Western Empires, Eastern Empires, (Here I Stand) (Barrage) (Railways of the World) (Junta) Show Manager, Belrati, Mandala, Diluvia Project, Furnace, (Res Arcana) Small Star Empires, Imperial Steam, Pulsar2849, PanAm, (Arkwright,) Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion 0:42:00 - Games on…
  134. Nov 22, 2021 Round 14, Extra Turn: "The BGG Con Report" with Trey and Candice
    0:00:00–Introduction: Welcome Tom, Game Designer Trey and Omni Gamer Candice at BGG Con 0:03:06–This Week’s Game Week: Paint the Roses, 9:28 (Cryptid); The Crew: Mission Deep Sea, 15:53 (Tichu); Corrosion, 0:20:55 (Trismegistus, Terra Mystica, Race for the Galaxy, Tzolki'n, Barrage, Gutenberg); Show Manager, 0:31:20 (Wallenstein, Bohnanza, Agricola, Show Manager: Cruise Ship); Gutenberg, 0:41:08; Boon Lake, 0:48:45…
  135. Nov 15, 2021 Round 14, Turn 5: "The Hunger" with Jake and Paul
    0:00:00–Introduction: Welcome Casual Gamer Jake and Game-Breaker Paul 0:06:55–This Week’s Game Night: Monumental, The Hunger, Darwin’s Journey, Lowlands, Wavelength 0:15:54–Game News: Wayfarers of the South Tigris, Devil Bunny Needs a Ham, Kill Doctor Lucky, Before I Kill You Mister Spy, Deadwood, Devil Bunny Versus the Entire Galaxy, Brian Boru: High King of Ireland, The King is Dead, Hegemony, QE, Here I Stand…
  136. Nov 8, 2021 Round 14, Turn 04: "Dune: A Game of Conquest and Diplomacy" with Dmitry and Candice
    Trey, Dmitry, and Candice talk about the 2021 release "Dune: A Game of Conquest and Diplomacy" and discuss "freedom and flow" in games. 00:00:00 Introduction - 00:02:58 Game Night - Magnate: The First City - Furnace - Babylonia - Necco Wafers - Stage Left - The Rival Networks 00:14:42 Game News - Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi - Tapestry: Arts & Architechture - Weather Machine on Tabletopia - Horseless Carriage pre-order…
  137. Nov 1, 2021 Round 14, Turn 03: "Magnate: The First City" with Paul and Trey
    Ben, Paul, and Trey talk about the 2021 release "Magnate: The First City" and discuss setting expectations for attending a game night. 0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Game Breaker Paul and Game Designer Trey 0:05:13 - This Week's Game Night: Grand Austria Hotel: Last Waltz, Ultimate Railroads: Asian Railroads, ArtDecko (formerly Promenade), Avalon, Dune Imperium, Tichu, Belratti (formerly Stuff,) 1822, Dune:…
  138. Oct 25, 2021 Round 14, Turn 2: "Grand Austria Hotel: Let's Waltz!" with Matt
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Matt, the Original Game Host 0:13:32 -This Week’s Game Night: Magnate, Grand Austria Hotel, Age of Steam Scandinavia, Love Letter, High Society, Captain Sonar, Bohnanza, Wavelength 0:18:02 - This Week’s News: Res Arcana Expansion, Lords of Ragnarok, Lords of Helas, Messina 1349, Gloomhaven 1.0 on Steam. 0:33:49 - Games on the Brain: Imperial Steam, Origins: First Builder, Ark Nova,…
  139. Oct 18, 2021 Round 14, Turn 01: "Imperial Steam" with Jennifer
    Trey and Jennifer talk about the 2021 release "Imperial Steam" and discuss the impact of video on the hobby. 00:00:00 Introduction - - Google Pixel 6 00:06:53 Game Night - Santiago - Smartphone Inc. - The Hunger - Clank! 00:12:09 Game News - Ark Nova - Bitoku - Zenobia Award Winners - Game Wizards - Advanced Civilization 00:30:22 Games on the Brain - 1840: Vienna Tramways - Lonny Orgler - Russian Railroads -&...
  140. Oct 11, 2021 Round 13, Turn 10: "Castles of Burgundy" with Elder
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Professor Elder 0:05:45 - This Week’s Game Night: Tabannusi, Imperial Struggle, Terraforming Mars, Imperial Steam, Furnace, Babylonia, Tichu 0:13:21 - This Week's News: Lord of the Rings--Fantasy Flight Games Revised Core Set; Pax Unplugged, World Series of Board Games, World Boardgaming Championships (WBC,) Blood Rage, Ra, 7 Wonders, Cataan, Diplomacy, Cole Wehrle: Arcs - Collapse…
  141. Oct 4, 2021 Round 13, Turn 9: "Ankh: Gods of Egypt" with Matt and Paul
    Trey, Matt, and Paul review "Ankh: Gods of Egypt" and discuss player elimination as a mechanism. 00:00:00 Introduction - - Americanish 00:05:24 Game News - Candice's Gen Con Round Up - Dune: A Game of Conquest and Diplomacy - Burncycle - Verdant Kickstarter - Voidfall Kickstarter - Imperium: Classics - Concordia on iOS - Back Chat from ThinkerThemer 00:21:36 Game Night - Not Alone - Bohnanza - Key ...
  142. Sep 27, 2021 Round 13, Turn 8: "Paris" with Jake
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Jake, the Casual Gamer 0:06:32 - This Week's Game Night: Americanish, Fresh Fish, Terraforming Mars 0:13:44 - This Week's News: Asmodee for sale; Oceans Digital Game; Artisans of Splendent Vale kickstarter; Total War: Rome; Masters of the Universe: Clash for Eternia; In-Flight 2021. 0:34:08 - Games on the Brain: College Games to Break the Ice - Codenames, Just One, The Crew, Tichu,…
  143. Sep 20, 2021 Round 13, Turn 7: "Ganz schön clever" with Mark
    Trey and Mark review "Ganz schön clever" and consider “Games as Metaphor.” 0:00:00 Introduction - Iocane Productions - Decision Center at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum 0:04:00 Game Night - Paris - Embarcadero - Jackalope Productions - The Night in Question 00:10:20 Game News - GenCon - Scout! - Forsaken announced - One Deck Galaxy on Kickstarter - Star Wars Outer Rim: Unfinished Business - Azul: Queen's Garden -…
  144. Sep 13, 2021 Round 13, Turn 6: "Fresh Fish" with Paul
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Paul the Game Breaker: Fresh Fish, Pipeline 0:12:24 - This Week’s Game Night: Terraforming Mars, Just One, Fresh Fish, Tichu, Calima, Avalon, Wavelength, Quest 0:20:42 - This Week’s Game News: https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/2721966/i-have-cancelled-my-pledge-after-learning-more-abo/page/1, Fantasy Flight and Key Forge,…
  145. Sep 6, 2021 Round 13, Turn 5: "Versailles 1919" with Candice
    Trey and Candice review "Versailles 1919" and consider “How to be taught a game.” (sorry for the echo on some of the audio!) 0:00:00 Introduction - Meadow 0:09:20 Game Night - Scout! - Panamax - Dune: Imperium - Quest - Anno 1800 00:20:40 Game News - Weather Machine on Kickstarter October 28th - Queen's Gambit: Das Damengambit - Settlement - Bruxelles 1893: Belle Epoque - World Cup Game coming to Kicstarter…
  146. Aug 23, 2021 Round 13, Turn 4: "Agricola: Revised Edition" with Alfred
    Trey and Alfred review the revised edition of "Agricola" and ask why the Olympics feature some games and not others. 0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Alfred, the Rule Lawyer 0:04:50 -This Week’s Game Night: Lancaster, Twilight Struggle, Agricola, Santorini, Hearthstone, Pokémon Unite on Switch, World of Warcraft 0:18:30 - This Week’s Game News: Verdant, Zenobi Awards, International Gaming Awards, The Hunger 0:33:20…
  147. Aug 16, 2021 Round 13, Turn 3: "Mind MGMT" with Ben
    Tom and Ben delve into the mysterious world of Mind MGMT, and discuss our favorite "rare game mechanisms!" 0:00:00 Introduction - Father's Office - 6 nimmt! - The Crew - Tichu 0:15:07 Game Night - Michael Nickoloff BGG GameNight! - Alubari: A Nice Cup of Tea - Versailles 1919 - Mind MGMT - Friedrich - Tragedy Looper - Imperial Steam - 1817 - Train Shuffling Podcast 0:25:48 Game News - Corrosion from Capstone ...
  148. Aug 9, 2021 Round 13, Turn 2: "Panamax" with Dmitry
    Trey and Dmitry review the 2014 classic "Panamax" then revisit the subject of "metagaming." 0:00:00 Introduction 0:05:05 Game Night - Quest - Versailles 1919 00:09:41 Game News - Avatar Legends RPG on Kickstarter - Descent: Legends of the Dark released - Boonlake by Alexander Pfister pre-orders available - Maricaibo: The Uprising expansion - Pilgrim: Piety & Penitence - Rolling Realms by Jamey Stegmaier - Weather…
  149. Aug 2, 2021 Round 13, Turn 1: "Babylonia" with Jennifer
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Jennifer, the Board Game Pioneer 0:07:41 - Game Night: Babylonia, Merchant's Cove, Terraforming Mars, Quest, El Grande, Panamax, Estates, Paris 0:23:25 - This Week's Board Game News - GI Joe Deck Builder; Architects of the West Kingdom: Works of Wonder; Divinus; Hunt or Be Hunted: Cryptid Urban Legends; Maharaja; Cardboard Creations: Andean Abyss. 0:41:03 - Games on the Brain:…
  150. Jul 26, 2021 Round 12, Turn 10: "Summoner Wars" with Matt and Paul
    Trey, Matt, and Paul Jake review "Summoner Wars" and conjure up some thoughts on the "games that divide us." 0:00:00 Message from Trey 0:00:40 Introduction 0:09:31 Game Night -Anno 1800 -Crescent City Cargo -Quest 0:24:42 Game News -MicroMacro: Crime City wins Spiel de Jahres -Paleo wins Kennerspiel des Jahres -Downfall: Conquest of the Third Reich on GMT P500 -Voidfall -Wingspan on iOS -Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich…
  151. Jul 19, 2021 Round 12, Turn 9: "The Initiative" with Jesse
    0:00:00 Introduction: Welcome Jesse, the Analytical Gamer 0:06:25 This Week’s Game Night 0:12:51 This Week’s Game News 0:28:30 Games on the Brain 0:42:12 - Review of The Initiative 1:14:41 - One-Off Games 1:46:33 - Board Game Sommelier 1:51:00 - Sign Off
  152. Jul 12, 2021 Round 12, Turn 8: "Calico" with Jake
    Trey and Jake cuddle up for some "Calico" and patch together some thoughts on "ethics in games." 0:00:00 Introduction 0:04:16 Game Night 0:12:32 Game News 0:23:50 Games on the Brain 0:27:35 Game Review - Calico 0:46:41 Member Segment - Chapter 10 Ethics in Games 1:09:10 Game Sommelier 1:18:52 Outro
  153. Jun 28, 2021 Round 12, Turn 7: "Santorini" with Alfred
    0:00:00 - Welcome Alfred, the Rules Lawyer Monopoly, Risk, Twilight Imperium, Witches of the Coast, Dungeons & Dragons, 5th Ed., 4th Ed., Champions 0:15:00 - This Week's Game Night BGA, Hearthstone, Russian Railroads, Santorini, Agricola, Lost Ruins of Arnak, Terraforming Mars, Sagrada, Terraforming Mars Ares Expansion, Alubari and Snowdonia 17:57, Warlord 18:30, Age of Steam Germany 23:25 0:24:46 - This Week's…
  154. Jun 21, 2021 Round 12, Turn 6: "Bruxelles 1893" with Elder
    00:00:00 Introduction - Catching up with Elder's gorgeous bodywww.diamondgame.comEpic MegaGrants00:13:38 Game NightMedusa UnleashedRiccochet RobotsTribuneTerraforming Mars: Big Box00:20:55 Game NewsAgricolaTerra Mystica: Fire & IceTichuHardbackConcordia: Digital EditionCaptstone picks up OrleansDragomino wins Kinderspiel des JahresKingdominoIsle of Cats: Kittens & BeastsNow or NeverCrafting Arzium6-minute…
  155. Jun 14, 2021 Round 12, Turn 5: "Tribune" with Dmitry
    Tom and Dmitry take in a new version of an old fave: Tribune! And they discuss kind vs wicked environments and what that might mean for gaming. 0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Dmitry, The Philosophical Gamer...
  156. Jun 7, 2021 Round 12, Turn 4: "Nations" with Paul and Ben
    00:00:00 Introduction - Throttling your play with Paul and Ben00:02:17 Game NightIKITribuneAvalonDecryptoCubitosRail Pass Toot Toot!Menara00:16:43 Game NewsGaia Project on SteamTussie MussieTriumvir on GMTs P500Isle of Cats: Kittens + BeastsSavannah Park1840Mosaic on Kickstarter00:26:42 Games on the BrainThe CircleSecret HitlerSquaring CirclevilleCrescent City Cargo00:44:41 Game Review - Nations: DynastiesThrough…
  157. May 31, 2021 Round 12, Turn 3: "Coffee Traders" with Candice
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Candice, the Omni Gamer.MadeiraMysteriumDixitTable TopMonopoly, Sorry, Trouble, UnoMagic MazeKing of TokyoGreat Western TrailBattlestar GalacticaVoyages of Marco PoloRootBrass: BirminghamIndonesia18xxTwilight Imperium0:16:44 - This Week’s Game NightCoffee TraderChurchill (17:22)Versailles 1919 (19:15)Distant Plane (21:42)Pipeline (22:57)Faiyum (23:58)Avalon (25:48)Tichu, Coimbra,…
  158. May 24, 2021 Round 12, Turn 2: "Faiyum" with Ben
    00:00:00 Introduction - Potluck with Ben00:05:30 Puzzle SolutionKey to the puzzle. Link to final puzzle: 00:09:43 Game NightKraftwagen on Yucata18xx.games18221882Oath00:20:50 Game NewsPaperback Adventures on KickstarterRailways of Sweden and Australia on KickstarterVampire RivalsGoonies: Never Say DieElder ScrollsKennerspiel des Jahres 2021 NominationsLost Ruins of ArnakFantasy RealmsPaleoAlso recommended:Aeon's…
  159. May 17, 2021 Round 12, Turn 1: "1840: Vienna Tramways" with Jennifer
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Jennifer, the Game Pioneer0:03:36 - This Week's Game NightHadrian's WallImperial Bells and Steam (4:41)1822 (5:03)Tribune (6:19)Terraforming Mars, 1840, Faeyim (8:22)0:08:46 - This Week's NewsHoplomachus VictorumChip TheoryFrosthaven, Isaac Childress's Update #80: Cultural Consultancy (12:45)Gloomhaven Race for the GalaxyAlma MaterDelicious Games, Messina 1347 (22:47)Mosaic…
  160. May 10, 2021 Round 11, Turn 9: "Dwellings of Eldervale" with Matthew
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Matt, the Game Enthusiast0:01:03 - This Week's Game Night (Prologue)Barrage, Dwellings of EldervaleLate Night Avalon0:05:35 - This Week's Game Night Summoner Wars 2.0 Online Beta Version and Physical CopiesFantasy FlightKeyforge, Netrunner, Arkstone, Magic The Gathering OnlineBarrage on SteamPitchcar (15:49)AvalonTribune (17:28)0:18:05 - This Week's Game NewsVoid…
  161. May 3, 2021 Round 11, Turn 8: "Detective: L.A. Crimes" with Jesse
    Words that might have something in common...00:00:35 Introduction - Planning some puzzles with Jesse00:03:15 Game NightPitchCarAvalonGinkgopolisDwellings of EldervaleSkullWavelengthNations on MaBiweb00:08:08 Game NewsHasbro NewsTyrants of the UnderdarkGenCon Safety UpdateStrategicon goes virtualAlien: Fate of the Nostromo00:18:09 Games on the BrainTwilight StruggleValheimBartle TypesQuantic Foundry survey00:41:54…
  162. Apr 26, 2021 Round 11, Turn 7: "Dungeon Petz" with Jake
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Jake, the Casual GamerDungeon Lords0:07:39 - This Week's Game NightWords with Friends, ScrabbleTerraforming Mars, Tichu, Crokinole0:10:20 - This Week's Game NewsSplotter, Capstone GamesArkwrightGaia ProjectPipelineCurious CargoImperial Steam (13:25)Christian T Peterson, Fantasy Flight Games (14:10)Battlestar GalacticaAndroid Net RunnerGame Center in Roseville Minnesota (15:20)18 Cash…
  163. Apr 19, 2021 Round 11, Turn 6: "Through the Ages" with Alfred
    00:00:00 Introduction Getting competitive with the "Rules Lawyer."00:05:28 Game NightSantoriniTerra MysticaGame Brain group on BoardGameArena.Russian RailroadsTerraforming Mars00:09:02 Game News7 Wonders Mystery2021 American Tabletop Award WinnersAbandon All ArtichokesThe CrewCalicoDominations: Road to CivilizationThe Siege of RunedarBabyloniaMy CityThe Shores of TripoliLove & Monsters on Netflix00:15:53 Games on…
  164. Apr 12, 2021 Round 11, Turn 5: "Castles of Mad King Ludwig" with Elder
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Professor Elder0:03:25 - This Week’s Game NightDance Central (05:02)City of Eternity (06:55)Just Dance (07:43)Terraforming Mars, Splendor (08:23)Pipeline (09:06)0:11:27 - Game News of the WeekFactory Funner, Bear Raid, Ghosts of Christmas KickstarterGhosts of Christmas (12:15)Time PalatrixFactory Funner (13:45)Galaxy TruckerBear Raid (17:20)Curious CargoA Siege of Runedar (20:01)The…
  165. Apr 5, 2021 Round 11, Turn 4: "Indonesia" with Dmitry
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Dmitry, The Philosophical Gamer0:07:05 - Last Week's "Table Image" Reassessment0:13:29 - Game NewsMatt Leighcock's Daybreak (13:41)New York Times articleJohn Company 2nd Edition (0:15:37)Kickstarter linkRoot (17:42)Candace Harris's John Company PreviewCole Wehrle Design Diary0:18:43 - Games on the BrainPraga Caput Regni (19:35)Maglev MetroReacting to the Past00:33:31 Game Review -…
  166. Mar 29, 2021 Round 11, Turn 3: "Maria" with Paul
    0:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome Paul, the Game Breaker0:07:00 - This Week's Game Night1800 Chesapeake (07:35) Terra MysticaTerraforming Mars, Crokinole, Wavelength (10:00)Winter KingdomTroyes (10:27)0:13:35 - This Week's NewsFractal: Beyond the Void (13:55)Eclipse, Twilight Imperium 4 (14:55)Twilight Imperium 3Stellaris (19:20)ValheimKeyforge Adventures (37:40)Rise of the KeyrackenAbyssal ConspiracyMarvel…
  167. Mar 22, 2021 Round 11, Turn 2: "Praga Caput Regni" with Ben
    00:00:00 Introduction - Experiencing all the emotions with BenWatch What CrappensSlap Chop00:13:40 Game Night1882 Assinboia18 Los AngelesDwellings of Eldervale00:29:38 Game NewsGenCon 2021 September 16-19Asmodee acquires Plan B GamesZ-Man sunsets Euro Classics linePrinces of FlorenceMage Noir on Kickstarter00:49:15 Games on the Brain1840: Vienna TramwaysFaiyumWings for the BaronLegendary Tactics on…
  168. Mar 15, 2021 Round 11, Extra Turn "Our 100th Episode! (And our live Avalon game)" with Matt and Tom
    00:00:00 Introduction: A very special episode of Game BrainGame Brain Avalon link00:10:05 TOP 5s! - Fictional Board Game WorldsTop 5 games from a worldMatt's 5 - ChaosmosTom's 5 - The Cones of DunshireMatt's 4 - GwentTom's 4 - The Colonizers of MalaarBoth's 3 - SabaccMatt's 2 - TakTom's 2 - TriadMatt's 1 - DejarikArchon - Commodore 64 gameTom's 1 - Glass Bead GameTops 5 worlds from a gameTom's 5- Dungeon…
  169. Mar 8, 2021 Round 11, Turn 1: "Winter Kingdom" with Jennifer
    00:00:00 Introduction - Not doing much of anything with Game Pioneer Jennifer00:07:18 Game Night - Dominant Species: MarineJennifer's Youtube Channel - MayveenaSantiagoWavelength00:16:20 Game NewsSummoner WarsJohn Company 2nd Ed.Everdell Complete CollectionBat Man: Dark Night ReturnsThe Crew: Mission Deep SeaJennifer's Card in Maricaibo: Uprising00:35:33 Games on the BrainDyson Sphere…
  170. Mar 1, 2021 Round 10, Turn 9: "Darwin's Journey" with Elder
    00:00:00 Introduction - Elder's Journey00:05:19 Game Night24Terraforming MarsHigh SocietyJaws00:11:03 Game NewsGargoyles AwakeningStardew ValleyConcordia on SteamSkyrim on GamefoundBoardGameBreakdownCryoFast and FuriousALIEN: Fate of the Nostromo00:28:21 Games on the BrainThe TranscontinentalImperial StruggleDominant Species: Marine00:33:12 Game Early Impressions - Darwin's Journey01:00:15 Co-Host Segment -…
  171. Feb 22, 2021 Round 10, Turn 8: "Curious Cargo" with Jesse
    00:00:00 Introduction - Curious about what's going on with Jesse00:06:53 Game NightAnachrony: Fractures of Time00:09:13 Game NewsRoot: The Marauder ExpansionGreat Western Trail TrilogyOn Mars: Alien InvasionMetal Gear Solid cancelledLegend of the Five Rings "complete"Terraforming Mars: Ares ExpeditionKickstarter00:19:55 Games on the BrainValheimDominant Species: MarineSleeping Gods00:26:39 Game Review: Curious…
  172. Feb 15, 2021 Solo Mode #5: Matt's Top 10 Solo Games of Quarantine
    Solo mode It's the solo mode And you're all alone in the solo mode And you miss your group Or you had some kids But you bought some games Why did you buy those games? Its the solo mode Its the uh solo mode And youre all alone in the solo mode And your group is gone Or you had some kids But you bought those games Why did you buy those games? Uuhhhhhhh... Sorry. Sorry about the audio quality on this one, everyone! My…
  173. Feb 8, 2021 Round 10, Turn 7: "Carnegie" with Trey and Ben
    00:00:00 Introduction - Elegance with Trey and BenIn and of Itself00:06:32 Game NightTerraforming MarsRes Arcana1817Bruxelles 1897Crokinole00:23:35 Game NewsRed RisingStroganovScribbletownFury of Dracula digitalBrass: Birmingham sequel teasedIKINow or NeverCastles of Mad King Ludwig Collector's00:565:23 Games on the BrainReacting to the PastCarpe DiemMaria01:09:29 Game Review: Carnegie01:51:13 Co-Host Segment:…
  174. Feb 1, 2021 Round 10, Turn 6: "Dune: Imperium" with Paul
    00:00:00 Introduction - Meanest Games with Paul00:06:18 Game NightCarnegieMariaTerraforming Mars on iOS00:18:20 Game News1860 Railways on the Isle of Wight1880 ChinaCity of CrownsRoseGauntletTharosSuper-Skill Pinball: Ramp it Up!Agricola: Consul Dirigens Deck00:30:23 Games on the BrainTerra Mystica on BGACurious Cargo00:36:50 Game Review Dune: Imperium01:08:37 Member Segment: Top 10 Meanest GamesCockroach…
  175. Jan 25, 2021 Round 10, Extra Turn: "2020 Year in Review (and Hallertau review) with Matt and Tom
    00:00:00 Introduction - Tom and Matt 2020 Year in Review00:04:13 Game Night00:16:07 Game NewsDune: House SecretsCarpe DiemCanvasION game design StatementSagrada LegacyManagement Change at FunagainUltimate Railroads00:35:43 Games on the BrainAgricola Streams:Lumin_Splay_agricolaThe King is Dead00:41:02 Game Review: Hallertau01:15:02 Host Segment: 2020 TOP 3sJennifer: Anno 1800 Pendulum Pan Am Candice: Imperial…
  176. Jan 18, 2021 Round 10, Turn 5: "The Crew" with Jake
    00:00:00 Introduction - Gettin' casual with Jake00:02:55 Game NightStories of the Three CoinsCrokinoleHallertauBrass00:08:23 Game News1860 to Kickstarter18Chesapeake: Off the RailsTerraforming Mars: Ares ExpeditionIt's a Wonderful KingdomRadlandsThe InitiativeDaniele Tascini remarksWhy I work for Ion Game DesignPax Exasperation by Patrick Rael00:42:09 Games on the BrainStories of the Three CoinsVersailles…
  177. Jan 11, 2021 Round 10, Turn 4: "Hansa Teutonica Big Box" with Ben
    00:00:00 Introduction- Going Deep with Ben!00:05:54 Game NightHansa Teutonica18ChesapeakeDarwin's JourneyTerraforming Mars on iOS.Under Falling Skies00:18:55 Game NewsSlay The Spire Board GameNew edition of Glass RoadDarwin's Journey on KickstarterT34 LeaderCelebrating BirdsCard RailsZimmer Frei!International Gamers Awards00:35:07 Games on the BrainPanamaxLowlands Modern ArtPraga Caput RegniAgricola (revised)Games…
  178. Jan 4, 2021 Round 10, Turn 3: "Brass: Birmingham" with Alfred
    00:00:00 Introduction - with new father Alfred00:12:38 Game Night!Lorenzo Anno 1800SantoriniCyberpunk 2077TawantinsuyuCrokinoleWavelength00:20:18 Game NewsCarnegie on KickstarterHallertau and Polynesia ReleasedConcordia SolitariaUnlock!: Kids00:31:45 Games, Games on the BrainOG Games on the Brain versionQueen's GambitChess00:46:30 Game Review: Brass: Birmingham01:22:43 Co-Host Segment: Refreshing the Player…
  179. Dec 27, 2020 Round 10, Turn 2: "Le Havre" with Dmitry, Paul and Trey
    Le Havre
  180. Dec 21, 2020 Round 10, Turn 1: "Tawantinsuyu" with Jennifer and Bruce
    0:00 - Introduction: Welcome Jennifer, the Pioneer GamerTekhenuAnachrony Expansions2:47 - This Week's Game NightTawantinsuyu, Beyond the Sun, Wavelength, TichuBabylonia, Paris, Whistle Mountain, Hallertau, ConcordiaAnno 1800, Babylonia, Beyond the Sun (8:37)Samurai, Babylonia (9:35)9:57 - This Week's NewsBoard Game Geek End Year Support DriveAliens: Another Glorious Day in the Corps (12:50)Dune; Spartacus: Blood…
  181. Dec 14, 2020 Round 9, Turn 9: "Anno 1800" with Jennifer and Elder
    00:00:00 Introduction - It's not sunny in Philadelphia / Top 3 Resource Management Games00:04:47 Game NightBeyond the SunParisLost Ruins of ArnakRaiders of ScythiaTawantinsuyuHallertauCoffee TradersCarnegie00:13:01 Game NewsISS VanguardVindication ExpansionPort Royal Big BoxAlhambra 2nd Ed.Gamemaster on Amazon00:21:13 Games on the BrainFaiyumHallertauMervTargi00:30:38 Game Review: Anno 180001:12:32 Co-Host Segment…
  182. Dec 7, 2020 Round 9, Turn 8: "Beyond the Sun" with Jesse
    00:00:00 Introduction - The Impact of 202000:03:06 Game NightWatergateMariaHigh FrontierSlay The SpireDisco Elysium00:15:35 Game News18MagInhuman ConditionsUnmatched: Little Red Riding Hood vs. BeowulfCoffee TradersFaiyumToy of the Year AwardsPoetry for NeanderthalsCrystal Palace PnP Expansion00:36:51 Games on the BrainImperial StruggleNaNoWriMoMilwordy00:43:08 Game Review - Beyond the Sun01:15:29 Co-Host Segment -…
  183. Nov 30, 2020 Round 9 EXTRA TURN: "The Transcontinental" with Ben and Trey
    0:00:00 Introduction - Week Two of Turkey TalkThe Transcontinental on BGGMod on Steam WorkshopButtermilk-Brined Turkey Breast - NYT by Samin NosratJubilee by Toni Tipton-Martin00:10:49 Game NewsValhalla's Viking DiceNemo's War: Journey's End ExpansionCephalofair websiteCarnegieMod on Steam WorkshopHow Do You Pronounce "Carnegie?"00:23:06 Games on the Brain / Game NightMerv: The Heart of the Silk RoadTwilight…
  184. Nov 23, 2020 Round 9, Turn 7: "Lost Ruins of Arnak" with Jake
    0:00:00 Introduction - Turkey Talk with Jake, the Casual Gamer0:07:35 Game NightAnno 1800Praga Caput RegniBeyond the SunThe Crew0:16:19 Game NewsCarnegie on KickstarterVia MagicaWiz War 9th Ed.DragonlandThe Crew: Mission Deep SeaCoffee TradersZenobia AwardFFG loses Star WarsOceans: Legends of the DeepCreature Comforts on Kickstarter0:32:25 Games on the BrainHallertauNusfjordThe TranscontinetalHigh Frontier 4…
  185. Nov 16, 2020 Round 9, Turn 6: "Brick and Mortar" with Paul and Ben
    00:00:00 A balanced introduction with Paul and Ben00:02:53 Game NightMariaArchitects of the West KingdomAnno 180000:12:39 Game NewsBurncycleEtherfieldsHarry Potter: Catch the SnitchGloomhaven: Fallen LionBeyond the SunThe Wanderer's GuideRoot Clockwork Expansion00:30:17 Games on the BrainThe TranscontinetalIkiDungeons & DragonsFiascoBaron MunchausenOnce upon a TimeNational Novel Writing Month00:47:28 Game Review:…
  186. Nov 2, 2020 Round 9, Turn 5: "Concordia" with Trey
    00:00:00 Introduction - Deck Building with Trey00:04:47 Game NightViscounts of the West KingdomAnno 180000:09:25 Game NewsCritical Role / Darrington PressUk’otoaWarchief GamingWingspan: OceaniaDune: ImperiumLost Ruins of ArnakEndless Winter - PaleoamericansAlien RPG on Roll20Charles S. Roberts AwardsNevskyTransatlantic II00:26:48 Games on the BrainAmong UsToil and TroubleGatherPhilibertThe Secret Power of White…
  187. Oct 26, 2020 Round 9, Turn 4: "Fields of Arle" with Ben and Paul
    00:00:00 Introduction: "Brothers" with sidekick Paul and hand-flapper Ben 00:04:36 Game NightGinkgopolisRoads & BoatsMaglev MetroMr. JackWavelength00:26:46 Game NewsHorseless CarriageRed Dust RebellionDescent: Legends of the DarkCharles S. Roberts AwardsNemo's War 2.1Carnegie00:45:45 Games on the BrainGùgōng: PànjūnGrand Austria Hotel: Last Waltz!BonfireCrescent City CargoCaptains of the GulfDie MacherDungeons and…
  188. Oct 19, 2020 Round 9, Turn 3: "Marco Pollo II: In the Service of the Khan" with Alfred
    00:00:00 Introduction: How to host a game night with Alfred the "Rules Lawyer"Love and Monsters00:10 38 Game NightBoard Game ArenaConnect FourSantoriniSuper-Skill Pinball: 4-Cade00:23:00 Game NewsDarkest DungeonSpielbox 2021Lookout NewsJennifer's TwitchFantasy Flight: Play and ShareCivilization: Terra IncognitaGolden Elephant Award00:34:25 Games on the BrainGreat Western TrailTawantinsuyuToo Many BonesBonfireRoads…
  189. Oct 12, 2020 Round 9, Turn 2: "Francis Drake" with Dmitry
    00:00:00 Introduction with "internet famous" Dmitry PortnoyThe Train Rush00:04:21 Game NightNew AmsterdamTungaruLignum00:08:10 This Week’s NewsCore WorldsBonfireFirst Monday in OctoberThe ThingTungaruHallertau00:34:41 Games on the BrainVillageDungeons and Dragons00:42:38 Game Review: Francis Drake01:05:40 Member Segment: Dmitry's 10 NEW Questions for Gamers01:48:20 Game SommelierPax PamirPipelineAndroid:…
  190. Oct 5, 2020 Round 9, Turn 1: "18Chesapeake" with Jennifer
    00:00:00 Introduction with the Game Pioneer Jennifer SchlickberndMember Segment: Video Games for EurogamersGrant by Ron Chernow00:09:16 Game NightFirst ContactThe Search for Planet XMarco Polo 2: In the Service of the Khan00:18:06 Game NewsThe Train Rush podcastWingspan: OceaniaGrand Austria Hotel: Let's WaltzFor Sale: Advisors (similar to High Society)The Last of UsJust One: Neue BegriffeGroundhog Day: The…
  191. Sep 28, 2020 Round 8, Turn 10: "New Amsterdam" with Elder
    00:00:00 Introduction - Elder in the City of Brotherly LovePaganos Cheese steaks00:05:22 Game NightTekhenuBonfireForum TrajanumNew AmsterdamAntiquityHigh Society00:12:30 Game NewsMachina ArcanaTen SunsShaolia: Warring StatesDungeon UniversalisMeeple LandClank! Adventuring PartyThe Crew: AdventuresLorenzo on Steam00:33:08 Games on the BrainTekhenuShipyardPrinces of FlorenceContainer00:44:15 Game Review: New…
  192. Sep 14, 2020 Round 8, Turn 9: "Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion" with Jesse
    00:00:00 Introduction - The Purell pain-induced shame edition00:05:00 Game NightSlay the SpireImperial StruggleJust One00:09:02 Game NewsTellstones: King's GambitThe 7th CitadelGame Brain group on BGADune: ImperiumWingspan on SteamDarkest DungeonLove and Monsters trailer00:30:00 Games on the BrainHadesSpace Biff on Imperial StruggleToo Many Bones Trove Chest00:36:00 Game ReviewGloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion01:31:00…
  193. Sep 14, 2020 Round 8, Turn 8: "Yokohama" with Jake
    00:00:00 Introduction - Childhood games that still hold up00:11:17 Game NightTichuChateau RoquefortHigh FrontierCup O Noodles Yahtzee (Game of the Year)00:17:30 Game NewsHeroquestTeam Roll & WriteKyotoRush OutRawr n' WriteSuper Skill Pinball00:40:27 Games on the BrainThe CostBios: MesofaunaWiz WarNew Amsterdam00:44:58 Game ReviewYokohamaGaia Project01:14:30 Host Segment: Childhood games that still hold upScrabble…
  194. Sep 7, 2020 Round 8, Turn 7: "Fort" with Paul
    00:00:00 Introduction: Nasal swabbin'with the "Gamebreaker!"00:06:17 Game NewsMercado de LisboaHorizon Zero DawnTapestry: Plans and PloysRoot on MobilePhilosophia: Floating WorldGloomhaven Co-Op ModeCosmic FrogRaiders of Scythia00:26:35 Games on the BrainSantorini on BGA00:30:45 Game NightCrusader Kings IIIPendulumArkwright: The Card GameVersailles 191900:41:45 Game Review: Fort01:05:25 Member Segment: Player…
  195. Aug 31, 2020 Round 8, Turn 6: "Anachrony" with Matthew
    00:00:00 Introduction - Welcome back Matty!00:07:28 Game NightHigh SocietyImperial StruggleAnachronyFort00:12:58 Game NewsVersailles 1919Yahtzee Cup of NoodlesEric Lang leaves CMONRoll of the Galaxy on IOSMaracaibo AppUprising ExpansionGaia Project AppGame of Thrones Board Game AppMariposaHadrian's WallCity of CrownsAlma MaterBGG Thread00:39:07 Games on the BrainPendulumMicrosoft Flight Simulator 2020Imperial…
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