Operation: Game Night podcast

1:28:44

We dive into the BoardGameGeek Hotness list to explore what games are capturing the attention of the board game community, while sharing our gaming experiences and insights. • Jared prepares for the World Series of Board Gaming by planning to relearn Azul • Clay reviews Expeditions, appreciating its unique action selection system and card-tucking mechanics • Travis explores digital gaming with Armello, an app that gives Mage Knight vibes with a physical board game version coming in 2025 • We analyze the BoardGameGeek Top 50 Hotness list, from Orleans at #50 to Sanctuary at #1 • Despite our best efforts, we're completely stumped by Sanctuary, the current #1 hottest game • Personal updates include Jared revisiting early podcast episodes, Clay finishing The Sopranos, and Travis following Nintendo Switch 2 news Join us next week for another episode where we continue to explore the world of board games with our signature blend of enthusiasm and friendly banter. We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 33: Engineer Thoughts on Engine Building Games 51:14

8 days ago51:14

51:14

Engine building games create deeply satisfying gameplay experiences that mimic real-life decision-making through resource management and strategic planning. We explore what makes these games so compelling and highlight some of our all-time favorites. • Engine builders are games where you exchange resources to become more efficient at gathering resources • Games typically start slow with limited actions, then accelerate as your engine develops • Splendor represents one of the purest examples of engine building with its gem-collecting mechanics • Terraforming Mars offers a rich thematic setting where blue cards create powerful ongoing effects • Gizmos functions like "Splendor on steroids" with satisfying chain reactions and marble-drawing mechanics • Seven Wonders combines drafting with engine building across three distinct ages • Engine building games reflect real-life decision-making about investments and trade-offs • Underwater Cities is touted as the "Terraforming Mars killer" with similar resource management concepts • Engine building often combines with other mechanisms like deck building and tableau building Tune in next month for our special Big Boy Game Night when Jerry visits Alabama for an epic gaming session! See Wyatt Hendrickson's winning match here: https://youtu.be/IwfUPELy6HA?si=xM46-foPCMZHYjw8 We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 32: Weeknight Games are the New Dinner Party 1:10:20

15 days ago1:10:20

1:10:20

We explore the world of weeknight gaming, discussing how board games can transform mundane weekdays into memorable social experiences while balancing time constraints and life responsibilities. • The group debates what makes a game suitable for weeknight play, considering time, complexity, and energy levels • Clayton and Jared recount their recent epic game night featuring Incan Gold, Camel Up, 7 Wonders and Zoo Vadis • Travis contemplates what games to bring to an upcoming session with gamers he doesn't know well • The hosts reflect on how scheduled weeknight game sessions provided stress relief and community when they worked together • Travis draws parallels between modern game nights and the lost tradition of weekday dinner parties • Jared and Clayton discuss the dynamics of playing games with spouses versus gaming groups • The group recommends Decision Space podcast for listeners interested in deeper game analysis Join us next time as we continue exploring the tabletop gaming world with our unique blend of friendship, strategy, and occasional table-banging! Also one of our favorite podcasts...AoM! https://www.artofmanliness.com/living/food-drink/what-is-a-dinner-party/ We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 31: Agricola's Comeback Tour & Board Game Mail Bag! 1:07:01

22 days ago1:07:01

1:07:01

Tackling listener questions, we dive into board game characters we'd embody, house rules we implement, and how we respond when people dismiss board games as "just for kids." • Clay defends his monthly board game budget overages as necessary therapeutic purchases • When it's appropriate to change game rules (party games) versus when to follow them strictly (strategic games) • Our approach to people who say board games are childish: embrace your inner child • The dream of opening a board game bar with themed food and a self-serve tap wall • Why Castles of Burgundy desperately needs a theme change despite its mechanical brilliance Share the podcast with three friends to move up in the Operation Game Night Corporation ranks! The more people that listen on your behalf, the higher you climb in our totally-not-an-MLM scheme. We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 30: Board Game Content Creation: The Inside Scoop 1:20:02

29 days ago1:20:02

1:20:02

Taye from Instagram account Taye and Company (Instagram @Tae_Eat_Tea) joins us to share an insider's look at board game content creation, from getting review copies to maintaining publisher relationships while staying authentic. • Tae started his account three years ago solely to get free games and now manages a thriving Instagram presence • Creating high-quality content with minimal equipment - just an iPhone 13 mini and natural lighting • How language barriers shape Tae's game collection - preferring icon-based games over text-heavy ones • The truth about publisher relationships - being "blacklisted" by publishers for honest reviews • FTC disclosure guidelines all content creators should follow but many ignore • The unexpected challenges of content creation - customs fees, prototype storage problems, and constantly changing marketing contacts • Why Tay deliberately keeps himself out of his Instagram photos to focus on the games themselves • The board games everyone's been playing this week - Black Forest, Betrayal at House on the Hill 3rd Edition, Daybreak, and Terraforming Mars Visit Tae on Instagram @tae_eat_tea ( https://www.instagram.com/tae_eat_tea?igsh=MXVyaGxmNHQxbnptNg== ) to see his beautiful board game photography and honest takes on the latest games. We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 29: Rummathon Royale, Five Tribes, & Card Games Built to Last 1:13:14

5 weeks ago1:13:14

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A fresh perspective on classic card games emerges as we discuss timeless favorites like Rummy and their modern adaptations. We dive into the creative process behind Rumathon Royale, exploring how nostalgia meets innovation. • Reflection on classic card games’ enduring appeal • Introduction and insights from game designer Bryce • Overview of Rumathon Royale and its unique features • Discussing the elements that make card games last • Personal anecdotes and reflections on playing classic games • Expectations for the game’s Kickstarter launch • Emphasis on the social connection built through card games Find out more about Rumathon Royale and stay tuned for its Kickstarter launch this summer! We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 28: Batman, Passion Projects, and AI Board Game Pitches 1:06:59

6 weeks ago1:06:59

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Clay is in the Hall of Fame! Jared and Travis do our best without him by exploring of how AI can innovate board game design. We dive into the interplay of personal stories and gaming mechanics that make for a captivating episode. • Celebrating Clay’s accomplishments and our pride in him • Sharing highlights from our recent gaming sessions • Discussing how AI could lead to exciting board game expansions • Pitching two AI-generated expansions for Western Legends • Encouraging reflection on the role of AI in creative endeavors Thank you for tuning in! Don’t forget to send Clay your congratulations on his well-earned award! We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 27: SETI, Gizmos, Too Many Bones, & A Big Small Box Showdown! 1:29:29

7 weeks ago1:29:29

1:29:29

It's the ultimate showdown in small box games, as we pit favorites against each other to crown a champion! • Clayton shares his thoughts on SETI and how theme impacts gameplay experience • Jared discusses his strategy and experience with Gizmos • The competition begins with matchups revealing personal favorites and mechanics • We explore auction strategies in games like For Sale and Castle Combo Which games will fall short? Which ones will go the distance? Listen to find out now! Have some thoughts/opinions on the bracket? Hit us up On Instagram and let us know what we missed! @Operation_Game_Night_Podcast We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 26: Finspan, Mint Tin Games, The Astral Freight Company, & Keeping Up With Board Games (ft. Sam from MesmeRealms Games) 1:19:52

8 weeks ago1:19:52

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Our conversation with Sam touched on important aspects of the board gaming community, especially in how to engage with it without succumbing to the pressures of FOMO. We discussed how listeners can keep their gaming experiences fresh by revisiting older classics, attending local meetups, and taking advantage of second-hand options. Sam’s journey in game design reveals the layers of creativity within the hobby and emphasizes the significance of community in enriching our gaming experiences. We encourage everyone to reflect on their own gaming habits and how they can find joy in connection rather than consumption. • Discussion on the perils of FOMO in board gaming • The importance of revisiting older classic games • Tips for keeping gaming experiences fresh without overspending • The role of community in board gaming and access to diverse titles • Insights into game design and creativity within the board game space • Sam's venture into designing board games and his experiences in the industry Check out MesmeRealm Games on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mesmerealm_games?igsh=ZXd5bXE4Y2U5MzF3 We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 25: GameHead Games and Future Releases with Paul Salomon 1:12:55

9 weeks ago1:12:55

1:12:55

Join us for a deep dive into the world of game design with Paul Salomon, the creative director at GameHead Games. Paul shares insights on mechanics, themes, and the exciting upcoming titles from GameHead, while also providing tips for aspiring game designers on how to break into the industry. • Discussion on the importance of gameplay mechanics over world-building • Insights into hit games like "Honey Buzz" and "Scythe" • Tips for aspiring designers on feedback and prototyping • Overview of GameHead's future projects and design philosophy • Encouragement for audience interaction on game ideas and experiences https://gamermats.com/pages/about-gamehead We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 24: Harvest, A Feast for Odin, & Solo Games Galore (feat. Bo from PunchableGames) 1:04:10

10 weeks ago1:04:10

1:04:10

This episode highlights the growing appeal and enjoyment of solo board gaming, featuring a discussion with guest Bo from PunchableGames (https://www.instagram.com/punchablegames?igsh=MWlkMzJ1N2Nrb2xiYw) who shares insights on solo game mechanics, recommendations, and barriers to solo play. The hosts also reflect on their recent gaming experiences, emphasizing the strategies that make solo gaming rewarding. • The appeal of solo gaming during the pandemic • Highlighting games like 'Wingspan,' 'A Feast for Odin,' and 'Long shot' • Understanding the difference between input and output randomness • Recommended solo games that are easy to set up and play • Discussing barriers people face with solo modes and games We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 23: Western Legends, Tiny Epic Game of Thrones, Crokinole & Controversies 1:12:52

11 weeks ago1:12:52

1:12:52

Finspan's launch has ignited discussions around creativity in board games, with players questioning whether it's a genuine evolution of Wingspan or simply a cash grab. The episode delves into these concerns while examining existing trends in re-skins, the financial realities behind board game companies, and the responsibility of designers to give credit where it's due. • Finspan ignites controversy in the gaming community • The impact of Wingspan’s success on the board game market • Debating the necessity of re-skinning in board game design • The importance of financial viability for small publishers • Striking a balance between originality and proven mechanics • Encouraging a supportive gaming community over negativity We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 22: Rebirth, Undaunted 2200: Callisto, Beetown Beatdown, & Organizing Game Collections 1:16:04

12 weeks ago1:16:04

1:16:04

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes when organizing a board game collection? You're in for a treat as we reveal our quirky stories and strategies, from thematic displays to makeshift shelving solutions, all aimed at keeping those treasured game boxes in perfect order. Whether it's daydreaming about custom-made shelves or battling our hoarding tendencies, this episode captures the art of balancing aesthetics and practicality. With a nod to our listeners, we also tackle a recent one-star review with humor and gratitude, urging everyone to keep the feedback coming. Join us as we unravel the strategic allure of Stamp Swap, a board game that's taking fictional conventions by storm. Our field reporter Clayton Gable shares his enthusiasm for the game while teasing a potential appearance by its designer, Paul Solomon. The excitement doesn’t stop there—get a sneak peek into Beetown Beatdown, a promising prototype with bee troop battles set to launch on Kickstarter in 2025. Plus, we dissect the complexity and dynamics of the Undaunted series, perfect for those who crave layered, strategic gameplay. Laugh along as Jared Erickson humorously details his unconventional recording setup while we pivot to lighter topics like our current TV obsessions. From the intense drama of "The Morning Show" to the comedic genius of "Cunk on Earth," there's something for everyone. And for those who enjoy a bit of culinary adventure, we share the joys of cooking on a newly seasoned Blackstone grill, hinting at dreams of an outdoor entertainment venture. Packed with wit and insights, this episode is a must-listen for gaming geeks and curious minds alike. We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 21: Tiny Epic Cthulhu, River of Gold, and a Board Game Head-to-Head! 1:14:29

13 weeks ago1:14:29

1:14:29

Clay breaks down the new hotness, River of Gold. Travis lays out the newest in the Tiny Epic series, Tiny Epic Cthulhu. Jared has a tough choice on his hands in the latest Board Game Head-to-Head. Planning a game night with six players can be both exciting and challenging. We explore the dynamics of engaging larger gatherings, highlighting the best games like Dune for deeper strategy and Zoo Vadis for interactive fun. Join us to discover your next favorite game night adventure! • Exploring six-player game dynamics • Recommendations for engaging and strategic games • Breakdown of Dune's thematic gameplay • Analysis of Zoo Vadis' interactive mechanics • Tips for hosting a memorable game night with larger groups We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi! As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts! https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/…

Operation: Game Night

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OGN Ep 20: Our Top 5 Game Mechanics (feat. Tara from Tara's Bad Luck Club) 1:19:06

14 weeks ago1:19:06