Ep 9 eoisode: Welcome to Table Flips, the board gaming podcast by two grown men who sneak in the occasional dexterity game and call it cardio. Gotta keep the blood pumpin'.
In-Person: Welcome to Table Clips, the board gaming podcast by two grown men who sneak in the occasional dexterity game and call it cardio. Gotta the blood pumping. That's what I call a workout.
Ep 9 eoisode: On this week's episode, we talk about the games we've been playing. It's been a good week, Travis. Then we call another game followed by Flippin' a Table. We end this week's episode with our featured review, Rebirth. Did Kanitzia birth a new classic? Or is this another one of his games we need to sweep under the rug and not talk about anymore? Wake? What do you mean by wake, sweep? I'm so excited,
In-Person: It's been a good week, Travis. Then we pull another game followed by Flip and a Table. We end this week's episode with our feature review Revert. Did Nitzia birth new classic? Or is this another one of his games we need to sweep under the rug and not talk about anymore? Blake, what have you been playing this week? I'm so excited.
Ep 9 eoisode: Travis. so for spooky season, Abomination the Air Frankenstein, designed by Dan Blanchett and published by Plad Hat Games in 2019. Okay. I mentioned this a little bit last week, but it is spooky season, so I was able to pull out one of my favorite spooky games.
In-Person: And published by Flat Hat Games in 2019. Okay, I mentioned this a little bit last week, but it is spooky season, so I was able to pull out one of my favorite spooky games.
Ep 9 eoisode: This is a game that I cannot say is a good game.
In-Person: This is a game that I cannot say is a good
Ep 9 eoisode: game mechanic wise. But I still love it. It's my guilty pleasure game that I pull out every time Halloween comes around. Why can't I say it's a good game mechanically? Because this is a medium long Euro worker placement with a lot of luck, random events, and take that. Typically you describe a game like that to me and I'm running away as fast as I possibly can. Why do I keep coming back for punishment every year?
In-Person: game mechanic-wise. But I still love it. It's my guilty pleasure game that I pull up every time Olive comes around. Why can't I say it's a good game mechanically? Because this is a medium-long Euroworker placement with a lot of luck, random events, and take that. Typically, you describe a game like that to me and I'm running away as fast as I possibly can. Why do I keep coming back for punishment every year?
Ep 9 eoisode: Because this is the most thematic game
In-Person: Because this is the most thematic game that I ever played, Travis. You were playing a scientist mission/slash forced by Frankenstein's monster to create a companion for him. All the while Captain Robert Walton is trying to stop you. In this game, you're placing workers on a board to gather body parts to build your monster. You can go to the moor or instill a body or dig up a grave,
Ep 9 eoisode: That I've ever played, Travis. You were playing a scientist commission slash forced by Frankenstein's monster to create a companion for him. All the while the captain Robert Walton is trying to stop you. In this game, you're placing workers on a board to gather body parts to build your monster. You can go to the morgue and steal a body or dig up a grave. Or you might want something a little fresher
In-Person: or you might want something a little fresher.
Ep 9 eoisode: and bribe the executioner for the body of someone who was just killed. Or you might decide to murder someone yourself for the freshest body parts possible. Because, Travis, the fresher the body, the more points you can get when you build your monster. Come on. Everybody knows the fresher the body,
In-Person: And bribe the executioner for the body of someone who was just killed. Or you might decide to murder someone yourself for the freshest body parts possible. Because, Travis, the fresher the body, the more points you can get when you build your monster. Come on. Everybody knows the fresher the body.
Ep 9 eoisode: it makes for better parts for a monster. You might also decide that murdering someone is not your style.
In-Person: It makes for better parts for a monster. You might also decide that murdering someone is not your style
Ep 9 eoisode: Because you want to keep your humanity track positive. So just hire a dog catcher and use some animal parts. You might not get the most points out of the monster you build, but they still work and you might be able to sleep better at night. So you're balancing how you're getting body parts. You can also repent for your sins at the church or speak at the local university for research cards
In-Person: because you want to keep your humanity track positive. So just hire a dog catcher and use some animal parts. You might not get the most points out of the monster you build, but they still work and you might be able to sleep better at night. So you're balancing how you're getting body parts. You can also repent for your sins at the church or speak at the local university for a research. cards and cash the cards will grant you some bonuses
Ep 9 eoisode: and cash. The cards will grant you some bonuses. That might allow you to steal from your neighbor. At the end of the round, you construct your monster with the body parts you collected, building a beautifully gross monster. You then flip the switch to see if your monster parts come alive. You do this by rolling dice. Travis, I'm rolling dice in this hardcore Euro game. You might be successful, or you might just burn your body to a crisp and have to start over.
In-Person: that might allow you to steal from your neighbor. At the end of the round, you construct your monster with the body parts you collected, building a beautifully gross monster. You then flip the switch to see if your monster parts can align. You do this by rolling dice. Chops I'm rolling dice in this hardcore Euro game. You might be successful or you might just burn your body to a crisp over. Hmm. Reanimation
Ep 9 eoisode: animation.
In-Person: of monsters. That sounds delightful. Actually, it sounds like our current administration. Now this is a long
Ep 9 eoisode: Now, this is a long game, about three hours long. They actually came out with a variant to shorten it, but no, no, no, my friend, I prefer the long one. Every round you get an event card that might help or hurt players. You get a fun narrative throughout the game where the captain is trying to stop you. The game will end in one of two ways. You play it all the rounds, and the captain wins.
In-Person: You play it all the rounds and the captain wins.
Ep 9 eoisode: And you just add up your points to see who did it better than the other player or
In-Person: And you just add up your points to see who did it better than the other player, hopefully, someone brought their monster fully alive before the game comes to a conclusion. It's hard to recommend this game because, again, it has a lot of luck, but the luck is thematic.
Ep 9 eoisode: Hopefully someone brought their monster fully alive before the game comes to a conclusion. It's hard to recommend this game because again, it has a lot of luck, but the luck is thematic. So for some reason, I personally don't mind it. I'm building a flipping monster. It might not work out. There's some dice mitigation, which is nice. The artwork. it's beautiful. that's weird to say the artwork is beautiful in this game.
In-Person: For some reason, I personally don't mind it. I'm building a flipping monster. It might not work out. There's some dice mitigation, which is nice. The artwork, it's beautiful. that's weird to say the artwork is beautiful in this game,
Ep 9 eoisode: Cause each card that represents a body is disgustingly beautifully. So don't play this with kiddos because it shows a lot of dead bodies. Even the monsters you're building with, they just start with just the muscle parts.
In-Person: because each card that represents a body is disgustingly beautifully. So don't play this with kiddos, because it shows a lot of dead bodies. Even the monsters you're building with, they just start with just the muscle parts.
Ep 9 eoisode: And then you're gonna flip them to the side that has skin on them when you upgrade them. You have to look up the pictures for this game. It's it's pretty awesome.
In-Person: And then you're gonna put them to the side that has skin on them when you upgrade them. You have to look up the pictures for the skin. It's pretty awesome.
Ep 9 eoisode: So is this a good game? No. I I don't think mechanically it is, but is it amazingly fun? Yes. If you like this theme, then you might actually enjoy a hardcore Euro game that has a lot of luck. Take that and random event cards that will hurt you for no apparent reason. But it's so thematic.
In-Person: So is this a good game? No. I I don't think mechanically it is, but is it amazingly fun? Yes. If you like this theme, then you might actually enjoy a hardcore Euro game that has a lot of luck. Take that and random event cards that will hurt you for no apparent reason. But it's so thematic. So I've I have a question. Does that does that mean all the players can lose the game to the captain? No.
Ep 9 eoisode: No, it just it just changes the
In-Person: It just it just changes.
Ep 9 eoisode: scoring and there can still be a player that actually wins. Okay. I I've played games like this before.
In-Person: Okay. I I've played games like this before that are more narrative based. I can't say that they were my favorites. I think when I do, I prefer to have it be semi-co-op or co-op like Dead of Winter
Ep 9 eoisode: Dead of winter.
In-Person: or Mansions of Madness. the camaraderie kind of lessens the blow of random elements in my mind. I generally enjoy a game when my success in that game is aligned with my decisions during the game, in spite of the other players.
Ep 9 eoisode: I generally enjoy a game when my success in that game is aligned with my decisions during the game, in spite of the other players. I see the need of resorting to take that and random card draw mechanics as like character flaws in the game. could there be a thematic abomination without those elements? I don't know. I'd I'd like to try it once. Well, maybe just once.
In-Person: I see the need of resorting to take that and random card draw mechanics as character flaws in a game. could there be a thematic abomination without those elements? I don't know. I'd I'd like to try it once. Well maybe just once.
Ep 9 eoisode: So that was abomination the air Frankenstein. Designed by Dan Blanchett and published by Plaid Hat Games in 2019. Now, Travis, I said this was a good week for gaming, and I think I might actually need to get that Kanitia tattoo. Another one? Where's this one going? Actually, never mind. I'm I'm all set. Well, I fell in love with this next game.
In-Person: week for gaming. I think I might actually to get that Kenitsia set. No, another one? Where's this one going? Actually that never mind. I'm I'm all set. Well I fell in this next game.
Ep 9 eoisode: Yes, this is Celtis, designed by Rainer Kenizia, published by Cosmos in 2008.
In-Person: Yes, this is Keltis designed by Rainer Kenizia, published by Cosmos in two thousand and eight.
Ep 9 eoisode: This was the Spiel De Yaris in two thousand and eight and Rainer King's first Spiel win. Although he also won the Kingder Spiel that year
In-Person: this was the Spiel de Yaris in two thousand and eight and Rainer Kenizia's first spiel win, although he also won that Kingdra spiel that year.
Ep 9 eoisode: for a game we like playing with our kids called Who Was It? Do you remember that, Blake? I do not. You don't remember that? Yes, I got that one from you. Yeah.
In-Person: for a game we like playing with our kids called Who Was It? Do you remember that, Blake? I do not. You don't remember that? It's where it has the talking owl and you go around the castle. Yeah.
Ep 9 eoisode: I actually really enjoyed that game and I played it with my kids too young because when it talked to us, it scared the crap out of my kids. They started crying. That's a good game, yeah. It was.
In-Person: That's a good game, yeah.
Ep 9 eoisode: Yeah, so this Kemptis is a two to four player version of Lost Cities, which is a very popular two player card game. hesitate to talk about Kiltis because the game never really got a true US pressing. it was released by Rio Brand that same year as Lost Cities the Board Game, and the changes made by some combination of Rainer Kenizia and Jay Tumbleson just sunk that game.
In-Person: Yeah, so this Celtis is a two to four player version of Lost Cities, which is a very popular two player card game. I hesitate to talk about Celtas because the game never really got a true US pressing. it was released by Rio Grande that same year as Lost Cities the board game, and the changes made by some combination of Reiner Kenizia and Jay Tumlson just sunk that game.
Ep 9 eoisode: it's not very good. Do not go try and find
In-Person: it's not very good. Do not go try and find that. Celtis has Celtic artwork and is very themeless, as is to be expected for a Kenitsu game. I think that might be why, along with the success of Lost Cities, that Lost Cities the board game came to be. then Celtis you have a deck of 110 cards, two each of the numbers zero to ten in five colors. Each player is dealt eight cards.
Ep 9 eoisode: Celtis has Celtic artwork and is very themeless, as is to be expected for a Kenitsu game. think that might be why, along with the success of Lost Cities, that Lost Cities the board game came to be. Celtis, you have a deck of 110 cards, two each of the numbers 0 to 10 in five colors. Each player is dealt eight cards. there's a board with a track in each color.
In-Person: there's a board with a track in each color,
Ep 9 eoisode: And random elements are seated on the board. These might be points, free track moves, or these stones that you can collect. And they're just placed on various spots on the board. And like Lost Cities, on your turn, you'll play a card in front of you. You basically imagine you have one pile for each color. And then you take a card either from the draw deck or one of the shared discard piles. Unlike Lost Cities, there are no handshake cards. You can build
In-Person: and random elements are seated on the board. These might be points, free track moves, or these stones that you can collect. And they're just placed on various spots on the board. And like Lost Cities, on your turn, you'll play a card in front of you. You basically imagine you have one pile for each color. And then you take a card, either from the draw deck or one of the shared discard piles. Unlike Lost Cities, there are no handshake cards. You can build
Ep 9 eoisode: Your stacks in each color from low to high or high to low. Each card you play, you move up that track. You don't have to play in each color if you don't want to, and you may not want to because playing in the color is an investment. A victory point, so it takes you a number of cards in each color to break even. One of your tracks you can decide is work double for you. So you want to make sure you put that on your most successful color.
In-Person: your stacks in each color from low to high or high to low. each card you play, you move up that track. You don't have to play in each color if you don't want to, and you may not want to because playing in the color is an investment of victory points. So it takes you a number of cards in each color to break even. one of your tracks you can decide is worth double for you. So you want to make sure you put that on your most successful color.
Ep 9 eoisode: once five-player pieces amongst all players are in the area of the top three runs of the tracks, the game will end. You score each color. there's a separate scoring for all the stones you've collected, and then the high score wins. it's a very simple game. I always enjoy it just as much as I do Lost Cities. I like the angst here. It's just like Lost Cities has. but this is essentially a race game. So you have to think, should I discard and try to draw something better?
In-Person: once five player pieces amongst all players are in the area of the top three rungs of the tracks, the the game will end. You score each color. there's a separate scoring for all of the stones you've collected, and then the high score wins. it's a very simple game. I always enjoy it just as much as I do Lost Cities. I like the angst here. It's just like Lost Cities has. but it this is essentially a race game. So you have to think, should I discard and try and draw something better?
Ep 9 eoisode: Or do I hamper my ability to play in a color to get stones or move up the tracks faster to collect things? Or am I waiting too long to start in a color and I don't have enough time to play the cards I have? I'm surprised to see this has a 6.4 rating on BGG. Same here. I think it was never going to be a 7.5. Because it's a multiplayer version of a game that let's face it is meant to be a two player game.
In-Person: Or do I hamper my ability to play in a color to get stones or move up the tracks faster to collect things? Or am I waiting too long to start that color and I don't have enough time to play the cards I have? I'm surprised to see this has a six point four rating on BGG. I think it was never going to be a seven point five because it's a multiplayer version of a game that let's face it is meant to be a two player game.
Ep 9 eoisode: I don't know about Travis. I I don't know about that. I'm gonna push back, but go ahead.
In-Person: I mean Lost Cities, it's it's meant to be a two-player game. but it does look like the rating has been diluted over the years by noobs. It's like when you show a kid a cassette tape and they expect it to have every song ever produced since the beginning of time. Like this Celtus is where your new games come from, so show Reiner some
Ep 9 eoisode: Lost City's it's it's meant to be a two-player game. but it does look like the rating has been diluted over the years by noobs. It's like when you show a kid a cassette tape and they expect it to have every song you were produced since the beginning time. Like this Celtus is where your new games come from, so show Ryan or something.
In-Person: respect. Yeah,
Ep 9 eoisode: Travis, I'm so glad you showed me this game. I'm gonna play this more, but this might be my favorite Kenitia game. This takes the two player Lost Cities game and makes it a solid board game that plays just as well. I'm gonna try it with four, but at three players, it was a joy to play. that's why I was a little confused when you say, you know, it was meant to be a two player game.
In-Person: Travis, I'm so glad you showed me this game. I'm gonna play this more, but this might be my favorite Kenitia game. This takes the two-player Lost Cities game and makes it a solid board game that plays just as well. I'm gonna try it with four, but at three players, it was a joy to play. that's why I was a little confused when you say, you know, it was meant to be a two-player game. Like Lost Cities, the two-player game. Great game. Really enjoyed it. Playing this game.
Ep 9 eoisode: Lost Cities, the two-player game, great game, really enjoyed it. Playing this game blew that away from me. The
In-Person: blew that away from me. The tension to play a card or discard a card is agonizingly amazing. Because you're not just worried about that one other player, but multiple players. This is what Kanitzia does when he is on his A game. He designs a simple game, a game that can be explained and understood quickly, but with decisions that are just
Ep 9 eoisode: tension to play a card or discard a card is agonizingly amazing. Cause you're not just worried about that one other player, but multiple players. This is what Kanitzia does when he is on his A game. He designs a simple game, a game that can be explained and understood quickly, but with decisions that are just
In-Person: heartbreaking and agonizing. The fact that it comes with two boards, you have the simple version, which might be my favorite, and then you have one that's
Ep 9 eoisode: Heartbreaking and agonizing. The fact that it comes with two boards, you have the simple version, which might be my favorite, and then you have one that's has a little bit more of a complicated path.
In-Person: a little bit more of a complicated path.
Ep 9 eoisode: Both are great. I can play this with my kids or with my gaming group. Now, the art I will say after I played this game really grew on me. But I will admit that upon first look, the art doesn't stand out, but give it some grace because.
In-Person: Both are great. I can play this with my kids or with my gaming group. Now, the art, I will say after I played this game, really grew on me. But I will admit that upon first look, the art doesn't stand out. But give it some grace because
Ep 9 eoisode: It's an old game. It doesn't look like it will be fun, but once you play it, if it doesn't steal your heart, then you might need to check to see if you actually have a pulse. That's how much I loved this game, Travis.
In-Person: it's an old game. It doesn't look like it will be fun, but once you play it, if it doesn't still your heart, then you might need to check to see if you actually have a pulse. That's how much I loved this game, Travis.
Ep 9 eoisode: I want to play this more, but this game is in my top 10 of all time for sure. Maybe top five, maybe even higher. Insanity. All right, that was Celtus, designed by Rainic Anizia, published by Cosmos.
In-Person: I want to play this more, but this game is in my top ten of all time for sure. Maybe top five, maybe even higher. Insanity. Alright, that was Celtus, designed by Rainer Kenizia, published by Cosmos in 2008.
Ep 9 eoisode: Up next is Gold Country, designed by you guessed it, Reiner Kanitsia, published by Bytewing Games in 2026. This game is another tile layer from Reiner Kenitsia. Like many of his games, this is a re-implementation of Spectaculum from
In-Person: You guessed it? Reiner Tenitzia published by Bitewing Games in twenty twenty-six. This game is another title layer from Reiner Tenitsia. Like many of his games, this is a reimplementation of Spectaculum from Eggertspieler and R and R Games in twenty twelve.
Ep 9 eoisode: And R and R games in twenty twelve.
In-Person: Yeah, I I played that. It was ugly. The theme didn't make any
Ep 9 eoisode: Theme didn't make any sense.
In-Person: sense at all. it was ultimately forgettable. it didn't help that 2012 was one of the best years in board game history. 2012 was like Music's
Ep 9 eoisode: Like music's
In-Person: 1992. at first when this reprint was announced, I thought they were reprinting Gold West from J. Alex Kevin with these nice new components, and I was going to be like, take my money. I saw it was spectaculum and I said, Aww. Just like that out loud. I was that disappointed.
Ep 9 eoisode: Old West from J. Alex Kevin with these nice new components, and I was going to be like, take my money. I saw it was spectacular, and I said, Awww, just like that out loud. I was that disappointed. but everything deserves a shot.
In-Person: but everything deserves a shot.
Ep 9 eoisode: And I'm glad you gave this a shot, Travis. And in this game, you are a gold rush investor developing minds and buying slash selling shares. It's a wonderful stock market manipulation game. The board is just a jumble of hexes with different types of tokens scattered about. At each corner of the board is a mine ready to be developed. On your turn, you place three tints on the board that are drawn randomly from a bag, similar to Through the Desert. The tints come in four colors and each color matches a certain mine on the board. You place these tints on hex spaces that are connected to the mine or a previously placed tint of that same color.
In-Person: Different types of tokens scattered about. At each corner of the board is a mine ready to be developed. On your turn, you place three tents on the board that are drawn randomly from a bag, similar to Through the Desert. The tents come in four colors and each color matches a certain mine on the board. You place these tents on hex spaces that are connected to the mine or a previously placed tint of that same color.
Ep 9 eoisode: While doing so, you might place a tent on a space that has a token.
In-Person: While doing so, you might place a tent on a space that has a token.
Ep 9 eoisode: That token might increase or decrease the price the stock of that mine. It might cause a mine collapse, causing players who own shares in the mine to pay to fix the collapse. After or before you place the tents, you can buy or sell any share in a mine. You might want to take a stock and buy low, knowing that you'll raise that price later. You might notice your opponent has a lot of stock.
In-Person: That token might increase or decrease the price of the stock of that mine. It might cause a mine collapse, causing players who own shares in the mine to pay to fix the collapse. After or before you place the tense, you can buy or sell any share in a mine. You might want to take a stock and buy low, knowing that you'll raise that price later. You might notice your opponent has a lot of stock
Ep 9 eoisode: In a specific company, so you cause that mine to collapse.
In-Person: in a specific company, so you cause that mine to collapse.
Ep 9 eoisode: And because they have a lot of shares in that mine, they have to pay a lot of money to fix it. The rules are simple, but just like Kenitzia, the decisions are crunchy and are vital to your success or your failure.
In-Person: And because they have a lot of shares in that line, they have to pay a lot of money to fix it. The rules are simple, but just like Kanitzia, the decisions are crunchy and are vital to your success or your failure.
Ep 9 eoisode: Later on, black tints will be added to the drawbag, and if you ever get to place them, you can cause a token to be taken off the board.
In-Person: Later on, black tents will be added to the drawback. If you ever get to place them, you can cause a token to be taken off the board.
Ep 9 eoisode: You might want to do this to stop someone from grabbing a token, causing a mine you have a lot of shares in to collapse. Once all the tents are drawn or all seven main gold veins are mined, then the game ends. Trade everything in for money and the most money wins. What'd you think, Travis? Well
In-Person: You might want to do this to stop someone from grabbing a token, causing the mine you have a lot of shares in to collapse. Once all the tents are drawn or all seven main gold gains are mined, then the game ends. Trade everything in for money and the most money wins. What'd you think, Charles? Well, I win ordered. It nice
Ep 9 eoisode: Woohoo. Nice.
In-Person: flip-flop from Spectaculum, Travis. Good job. I had to have the full deluxe components because I think they add in every way to this game. This is such a simple concept that was waiting for someone to put forth effort in updating the system and to dress up the art and the production. I it's just as fast as Through the Desert, but you have this added layer of stock manipulation that reminds me of
Ep 9 eoisode: But you have this added layer of stock manipulation that reminds me of
In-Person: Acquire or Union Pacific. Once the board is randomly set up.
Ep 9 eoisode: Once the board is randomly set up, I I can visualize a path through this game and then I just try to set that plan into motion. in our game, I was dealt the white company as my hidden stock. So I figured I could go about it in two ways. I could invest early, which may have caused all the players to go, well I better invest early and help the white stock grow in value. I felt that would probably diminish my margin.
In-Person: I I could visualize a path through this game and then I just tried to set that plan into motion. in our game, I was dealt the white company as my hidden stock. So I figured I could go about it in two ways. I could invest early, which may have caused all the players to go, well, I better invest early and help the white stock grow in value. And I felt that would probably diminish my margin. But I decided instead to just make the stock for that company so expensive that nobody else would want to buy it.
Ep 9 eoisode: But I decided instead to just make the stock for that company so expensive that nobody else would want to buy it. And then once I got it to 10, I bought it a couple of times, knowing that I could continue to make it grab more value by the end of the game. And I made it tough for you and the other player to want to invest in it at that point. was also a stock I was sure to tank, and now one turn you guys made specific actions to try and save it. So I brought it down and bought it. Now
In-Person: And then once I got it to ten, I bought it a couple of times, knowing that I could continue to make it grab more value by the end of the game. And I made it tough for you and the other player to want to invest in it at that point. there was also a stock I was sure to tank, and then on one turn you guys made specific actions to try and save it. So I brought it down and bought it. Now
Ep 9 eoisode: I left the players with a crazy decision. Like, it's one of those
In-Person: I left the players with the crazy decision, like it's one of those things.
Ep 9 eoisode: things that just makes this such a fun game. I'm going to use this to teach my kids about investments.
In-Person: Things that just makes this such a fun game. I'm gonna use this to teach my kids about investments.
Ep 9 eoisode: This was simple enough that I can play a solid game with my seven and ten year old. I was teaching them a stock market investment game, stock market manipulation at that age. And Travis, yeah, that blew my mind that they were able to easily pick that up. How amazing is that.
In-Person: Manipulation at that age. And Travis, yeah, that blew my mind that they were able to easily pick that up. How amazing is that?
Ep 9 eoisode: But the decision space is so crunchy that big time gamers will definitely eat this up. And this is what Kanitzia does when he's on his A game. And he was definitely on it with this one. Again, just like Keltus. There are even one-off bonus cards to the side that you can buy on your turn. You might pay three coins to grab a certain color tent and get to place it out as well. So now you're placing four tents out on your turn. These are also only one-time use.
In-Person: But the decisions phase is so crunchy that big time gamers will definitely eat this up. And this is what Kanitsian does when he's on his A game. And he was definitely on it with this one. Again, just like Celtus. There are even one-off bonus cards to the sign that you can buy on your turn. You might pay three points to grab a certain colored tent and get to place it out as well. So now you're placing four tents out on your turn. These are also only one time use.
Ep 9 eoisode: Don't like tints
In-Person: Tints you drew from the bag. Well, there's a card that allows you to pay three coins, and redraw. So much fun. The components for this game are great. The tokens are these nice plastic bits, the tents are chunky pieces of wood. I purchased some of the upgrades and got the gold painting pans to hold the money. Now I think these are the heaviest components for board game that I have.
Ep 9 eoisode: you drew from a bag? Well, there's a card that allows you to pay three coins, and redraw. So much fun. The components for this game are great. The tokens are these nice plastic bits. The tints are chunky pieces of wood. I purchased some of the upgrades and got the gold painting pans to hold the money. Now, I think these are the heaviest components for board game that I have. They are solid
In-Person: They are so Solid metal. The coins are these nice gold metal coins that clink beautifully in the pants. These are the type of components that just really pull you into the gameplay. reading?
Ep 9 eoisode: metal. The coins are these nice gold metal coins that clink beautifully in the pants. These are the type of components that just really pull you into the gameplay. And that was Gold Country, designed by Reiner Kenitia, published by Bytewing Games in 2026. Travis, I'm so glad you loved it.
In-Person: And that was Gold Country, designed by Reiner Kenizia, published by White Wing Games in twenty twenty six. Travis, I'm so glad you loved it.
Ep 9 eoisode: Now our Call of the Week, it's ours.
In-Person: Now our call of the week, it's ARCS. Designed by Cole Whirley and published by Leader Games in twenty twenty four. Blake, why are you calling this game?
Ep 9 eoisode: Travis, I was really excited about this game. I am hit and miss when it comes to Cole Whirley. Although I always appreciate his
In-Person: Although I always appreciate
Ep 9 eoisode: designs and the way he pushes board games in different ways. I really enjoy his take on PAX Premiere 2nd Edition, and that will always stay in my collection for now. I was excited when I heard about a 4X game by Cole Whirley where the main mechanic was a trick taking mechanic. I played this a few times. I think I won most of the games that I've played.
In-Person: in different ways. I really enjoy his take on PAX Premiere 2nd Edition and that will always stay in my collection for now. I was excited when I heard about a Vorex game by Co-Worly where the main mechanic was a trick-ticking mechanic. I played this a few times. I think I won most of the games that I've
Ep 9 eoisode: played of this, but that doesn't matter. So
In-Person: made of this but that doesn't matter. So
Ep 9 eoisode: imagine a game of trick taking where the actions you take are on the cards you play. Sometimes you want to win the trick which will allow you to lead in the next round and maybe claim an ambition. By claiming an ambition, you are choosing what will score at the end of that round.
In-Person: Imagine a game of trick taking where the actions you take are on the cards you play. Sometimes you want to win the trick which will allow you to lead in the next round and maybe claim ambition. By claiming an ambition, you are choosing what will score at the end of that round.
Ep 9 eoisode: I loved how the players choose throughout the game round what will and won't score.
In-Person: I loved how the players choose throughout the game round what will and what score.
Ep 9 eoisode: What I didn't like was how sporadic it felt. You think you might be leading in one area, but the tides can turn drastically no matter how one sets themselves up. I know many people felt frustrated because they felt that the hands that they were dealt each round dictated what they could do.
In-Person: What I didn't like was how sporadic it felt. You think you might be leading in one area, but the tides can turn drastically, no matter how one sets themselves up. I know many people felt frustrated because they felt that the hands that they were dealt each rounds dictated what they could do.
Ep 9 eoisode: In a way it does, but I felt like the point was to find out how your hand can be played to better your position on the board to score that round. More tactical than strategic. You couldn't go in with a big plan with what you want to do each round. You have to have the game deal you your cards, then you try to figure out through the cards you have what will best be played. I actually enjoyed that aspect, but just got tiring.
In-Person: In a way it does, but I felt like the point was to find out how your game can be played to better your position on the board to score that round. More tactical than strategic. You couldn't go in with a big plan with what you want to do each round. You have to have the game deal you your cards, then you try to figure out for the cards you have what will best be played. I actually enjoyed that aspect. What just got tiring
Ep 9 eoisode: was no matter how you played the game, it just felt
In-Person: was no matter how you played the game, it just felt like a constant back and forth where everyone had to keep everyone in check. It was difficult to plan your turns because the board state would change drastically before your turn came back around. This easily leads to key making. The players can quickly build up powers that can easily be stripped by other players the very next round. It was just so swingy which made the game feel exhausting.
Ep 9 eoisode: like a constant back and forth where everyone had to keep everyone in check. It was difficult to plan your turns because the board state would change drastically before your turn K back around. This easily leads to king making. The players can quickly build up powers that can easily be stripped by other players the very next round. It was just so swingy which made the game feel exhausting. I enjoyed aspects of the game, but in the end, after
In-Person: I enjoyed aspects of the game but in the end after
Ep 9 eoisode: each play, I was just emotionally exhausted, Travis. Not in a good way, where I used my mind to figure out a good puzzle, rather exhausted by the emotional back and forth of the flow of the game.
In-Person: each play I was just emotionally exhausted Travis not in a good way where I used my mind to figure out a good puzzle rather exhausted by the emotional back and forth of the flow of the game.
Ep 9 eoisode: I felt like a fool to almost get invested, which one needs to be in a 4X game. Maybe I'm wrong, but I'm ready to give this burden to someone else. I haven't
In-Person: I felt like a fool to almost get invested, which one needs to be in a 4X game. Maybe I'm wrong, but I'm ready to give this burden to someone else. I haven't
Ep 9 eoisode: Try that Bright Reach expansion which makes this game into a campaign game. Travis, I I don't have the emotional fortitude for that. I can't imagine making this game a campaign. I know there are people out there that love this, but for me, life is just way too short. I hate this game. I hate so many aspects of this game. It's hard to explain without charts and graphs. first I hate games where theme and story could have been added.
In-Person: tried that Bright Reach expansion which makes this game into a campaign game. Travis, I I don't have the emotional fortitude for that. I can't imagine making this game a campaign. I know there are people out there that love this, but for me life I hate this game. I hate so many aspects of this game. It's hard to explain without charts and graphs. first, I hate games where theme and story could have been added in very simple places, but instead you get this generic function only. I had the same issue with expeditions, scythe, whatever they called it. What what put scythe over the top for me was the encounters and the story. Not a lot of theme.
Ep 9 eoisode: simple places but instead you get this generic function only. I had the same issue with expeditions, scythe, whatever they called it. What put scythe over the top for me was the encounters and the story. Not a lot of theme, just a little. The board and the powers were evocative of world powers and they were all trying to get to the center of the board first. It was dry but the art and the encounters filled in nicely. And then expeditions got rid of that.
In-Person: Just a little. The board and the powers were evocative of world powers, and they were all trying to get to the center of the board first. It was dry, but the art and the encounters filled in nicely. And then Expeditions got rid of that. So everything you do in the game was generic. Who are you fighting? Ugh, orange and purple. Orange and purple what? And Ark says the same problem. You have a problem with getting players to fight on a map. Well, let's just make the map concentric circles.
Ep 9 eoisode: So everything you do in the game was generic. Who are you fighting? orange or purple? Orange or purple what? And Ark says the same problem. You have a problem with getting players to fight on a map? Well, let's just make the map concentric circles. Where? That doesn't matter, who gives a shit? The trick taking also was just implemented so poorly. It's the worst kind of trick taker. You have good cards? Well you do well. You have bad cards? Well better look next round.
In-Person: Where? It doesn't matter. Who gives a shit? The trick taking also was just implemented so poorly. It's the worst kind of trick taker. You have good cards, well, you'll do well. You have bad cards, well, better luck next round. It was so static and uninteresting. And then throw on top of that the swingy and massive over overly powered cards, and I was done. I just don't get the hype. I'm not a four X guy anyway, but there are just so many games that do this so much better.
Ep 9 eoisode: It was so static and uninteresting. And then throw on top of that the swingy and massive overly powered cards and I was done. I just don't get the hype. I'm not a four X guy anyway, but there are just so many games that do this so much better. not great, but just better. So I agreed. Blake, it was good good call. Blanvoyage Arcs.
In-Person: not great, but just better. So I agree, Blake, it was good good call. Bon voyage arcs.
Ep 9 eoisode: And that was ARCS designed by Cole Worley and published by Leader Games in 2024. Now on to table flips. Travis, what tables are you flipping today? my table flip this week is Philgs, the friendly local game store. or as I will modify it for this rant, the Ilgs are just the local game store. Because more and more I see local game stores be
In-Person: my table flip this week is Filgs, the friendly local game store. or as I will modify it for this rant, the Ilgs, or just a local game store. Because more and more I see local game stores be not so friendly to John Q Board Gamer. I used to travel a lot for work and would always make it a priority to check out the local Ilgs, hopingly hoping that it would be a Filgs.
Ep 9 eoisode: Not so friendly to John Q WardGamer. I used to travel a lot for work and would always make it a priority to check out the local ilds openly, hoping that it would be a filgs. But I would say only one in five were fils. There were a lot of ugly ilgs out there. Now I want to preface this by saying I realize that owning a board game-centric store must be tough. Low sales, low margins.
In-Person: But I would say only one in five were filgs. There were a lot of ugly ilgs out there. Now I want to preface this by saying I realize that owning a board game centric store must be tough. Low sales, low margins, cheap board gamers that want a place to play with their butt crack visible while they bring in their drinks and food and then order their games from game nerds. but I see a lot of stores not even try to turn that frown upside down.
Ep 9 eoisode: Cheap board gamers that want a place to play with their butt crack visible while they bring in their drinks and food and then order their games from Game Nerds. But I see a lot of stores not even try to turn that frown upside down, or more aptly that uncovered butt crack sideways. Yes, I'm sure you make more money hawking coordinates to the appleseds, Warhammer minis, Pokemon cards. And my thing is if you don't know board games,
In-Person: Or more aptly that uncovered butt crack sideways. Yes, I'm sure you make more money hawking corn nuts to the appleseeds, warhammer minis, Pokemon cards. And my thing is if you don't know board games, then I'd rather you just didn't sell them and save me the trip. it will just be a burden for you as a game store owner. Or instead you could put some effort into it. Why not be good at everything?
Ep 9 eoisode: Then I'd rather you just didn't sell them and save me the trip. it will just be a burden for you as a game store owner. Or instead you could put some effort into it. Why not be good at everything? Why not have an inviting store for all types of games and gamers? Why ilgs and not filgs? Now when I walk into my local game store, I get the same things.
In-Person: Why not have an inviting store for all types of games and gamers? Why ilgs and not filgs? When I walk into my local game store, I get the same things. Shelves covered in board games at retail price that nobody wants. Sorry, people don't want that dusty 20-year-old copy of Mall World.
Ep 9 eoisode: Shelves covered in board games at retail price that nobody wants. Sorry, people don't want that dusty 20-year-old copy of Maul World. Clear your shelves and cut your losses by selling your poor choices at 50 to 75% off. I also get the same dumb stare from every mouth breather behind the counter in every store. They are like NPCs. I know these stores can't afford to pay a road scholar, but
In-Person: Clear your shelves and cut your losses by selling your poor choices at fifty to seventy five percent off. I also get the same dumb stare from every mouth breather behind the counter in every store. They are like NPCs. I know these stores can afford to pay a road scholar, but
Ep 9 eoisode: As a game store owner, demand more from your employees. Demand they be knowledgeable about your product. they
In-Person: as a game store owner, demand more from your employees. Demand they be knowledgeable about your product. They have no answers for the customers' questions. They should be setting something up, demoing a game, using social media to create events, getting people excited to come into your store, managing your pre-order system. And that is another thing that these stores get wrong. Create a community. Even if there already is one.
Ep 9 eoisode: have no answers for the customer's questions. They should be setting something up, demoing a game, using social media to create events, getting people excited to come into your store, managing your pre-order system. And that is another thing that these stores get wrong. Create a community, even if there already is one.
In-Person: Talk to your customers. Find out what they like. If they offer to help, take it. Would I rather buy ticket to ride in Target?
Ep 9 eoisode: Talk to your customers, find out what they like. If they offer to help, take it. Would I rather buy a ticket to ride and target? Or a store that has an event for it and teaches me how to play, gives me promos, allows me to meet people. I think the biggest thing here is effort. I see a lot of lackadays called game store owners. Clueless people who are first to whine that owning a store is tough and sales are down. Yeah, no shit. It's probably because when somebody suggests that they meet up at your store,
In-Person: Or a store that has an event for it and teaches me how to play, gives me promos, allows me to meet people. I think the biggest thing here is effort. I see a lot of lackadaisical game store owners. Clueless people who are first to whine that owning the store is tough and sales are down. Yeah, no shit. It's probably because when somebody suggests that they meet up at your store, the
Ep 9 eoisode: The response is, do I have to? It smells like Taco Belfart in there. Instead of, hey, that's a good idea.
In-Person: response is, Do I have to? It smells like Taco Belfart in there. Instead of, hey, that's a good idea.
Ep 9 eoisode: It's about laziness, in my opinion. It's not an ills, it's an ill ills, a lazy local game store. It takes work to own your own store. Get up and do something, even if it fails. Get that refrigerator fixed. Nobody's had a cold drink in four years. Fix that ceiling tile. Clean the bathroom.
In-Person: it's about laziness in my opinion. It's not an ilgs, it's a ill ilgs, a lazy local game store. It takes work to own your own store. Get up and do something, even if it fails. Get that refrigerator fixed. Nobody has had a cold drink in four years. Fix that ceiling tile. Clean the bathroom.
Ep 9 eoisode: If you don't know a sector of your business, ask somebody to consult for you. Put people and games together and make it at your shore. And
In-Person: If you don't know a sector of your business, ask somebody to consult for you. Put people in games together and make it at your store. And for God's sakes, fire Doug. He's scaring everybody away.
Ep 9 eoisode: for God's sakes, fire Doug. He's scaring everybody away. I I I love this table flip. Again, owning a how you put it? Ligs, Ligs? Sure. LGS in this economy has to be tough. Trying to win against big chains has to be difficult. Is it all about laziness? Who knows? I'm sure there are a thousand factors for why a lot of LGS end up like that. The point is they do end up like that. And it's frustrating because you're right. When I go to a new town and want to visit an LGS, most of the time it's just TCG, trading card games. And they have a few dusty old games that might be sun bleached for being too close to the glass windows. This
In-Person: Do end up like that. And it's frustrating because you're right. When I go to a new town and want to visit an LGS, most of the time it's just TCG trading card games. And they have a few dusty old games that might be sun-bleached for being too close to the glass windows. This
Ep 9 eoisode: Doesn't welcome people to our hobby. I know a few off the top of my head that are amazing, but I imagine
In-Person: doesn't welcome people to our hobby. I know a few off the top of my head that are amazing, but I imagine.
Ep 9 eoisode: it takes a lot of work. A lot of work. And for those that can keep it up, my hat is off to you and I praise your efforts. Thank you, those that are able to do that. So that was our table flip for this week by Travis.
In-Person: It takes a lot of work. A lot of work. And for those that can keep it up, my hat is off to you and I praise your efforts. Thank you, those that are able to do that. So that was our cable clip for this week by Travis.
Ep 9 eoisode: Hi. Welcome to the dragon's nutsack.
In-Person: Okay, can you help me?
Ep 9 eoisode: No
In-Person: okay, thank you.
Ep 9 eoisode: Thank you.
In-Person: do you have a duster?
Ep 9 eoisode: i is that a war hammer thing? No
In-Person: No, I w I want actual feather duster. I'm getting mesothelioma right now.
Ep 9 eoisode: Getting Mesothelioma right now. Haha We have that magic card. Mesotheliomia. yeah. Two black mana.
In-Person: I'm looking for a copy of Grey Loon.
Ep 9 eoisode: We we don't make copies, man. The this isn't Kinko's. No no no.
In-Person: No no no. The the board game Grey Loon.
Ep 9 eoisode: Grey lung? I thought we discussed that earlier. You need to talk to Doug. He's our magic guy. never mind. He's asleep. Is that a raccoon in the corner? Yeah, he's been here all day. Not sure why. We don't have any snacks. I would call animal control, but my phone is all the way over there
In-Person: need talk to Doug. He's our magic guy. never mind. He's asleep. That's is that a raccoon in the corner? Yeah, he's been here all day. Not sure why. We don't have any snacks. what we call animal control, but my phone is all the way over.
Ep 9 eoisode: and and I've come too far.
In-Person: Come too far. Where where's the owner? he he doesn't work on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, or or even Sunday. so so Thursdays then?
Ep 9 eoisode: he he doesn't work on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, or or even Sunday. So so Thursdays then? Well Thursday morning
In-Person: There's a
Ep 9 eoisode: from like eleven to to noon.
In-Person: great. Well this has really been something. Okay. Come back again.
Ep 9 eoisode: This has really been something. Okay, come back again. But but not on Friday. My friends and I
In-Person: Yeah.
Ep 9 eoisode: were playing that new miniature RPG, the King's turds. It's it's awesome.
In-Person: Miniature RPG, the King's Turns. It's it's awesome.
Ep 9 eoisode: Now on to our feature review rebirth by Reiner Canisi.
In-Person: Now on to our feature review, Rebirth by Reiner Kenitsia, published by Mighty Boards in twenty twenty four.
Ep 9 eoisode: Travis, I'm gonna come out and say it. I enjoyed the game.
In-Person: I don't. Continue. You can either place
Ep 9 eoisode: You can either play Scotland or the Ireland side. I have played Scotland side about eight to
In-Person: Eight.
Ep 9 eoisode: ten times, but only the Ireland side once. So I enjoy the game. I have to say that because when I read the rules, I didn't think I was going to. It's another tile-lane game from the doc. He's got a lot out there. And if you listen to the show, you might remember one of my jokes was how this game won the Kinnerspiel DeJarris.
In-Person: I enjoyed the game. I have to say that because when I read the rules, I didn't think I was going to. It's another tile-laying game from the dock. He's got a lot out there. And if you listen to the show, you might remember one of my jokes was how this game won the kinners filled the jars. Who knew all you had to do was redesign the same game over and over and over to finally win. This game just seems like another take on one of the dock's mini tile layers.
Ep 9 eoisode: Who knew all you had to do was redesign the same game over and over and over to finally win? This game just seems like another take on one of the dock's mini tile layers. The dock has a lot of amazing tile laying games out there: Through the Desert, Blue Lagoon, Tigers and Euphrates, Samurai, Babylonia, and a lot more. some of these are quite different. Some
In-Person: The dock has a lot of amazing tile land games out there. Through the Desert, Blue Lagoon, Tigers in Euphrates, Samurai, Babylonia, and a lot more. are quite different. Some
Ep 9 eoisode: Are very similar with a little twists. Sometimes those twists are good, sometimes they're not. So in this game, you're gonna draw a tile from your pile of tiles
In-Person: are very similar with a little twist. Sometimes those twists are good. Sometimes they're not. So in this game, you're gonna draw a tile from your pile of tiles.
Ep 9 eoisode: and play it on a board. That's it. You're either placing a farming tile, an energy tile, or a village tile. Sometimes you want to really group these pieces together to score. Sometimes you want to win majority in cities for points, and sometimes
In-Person: and play it on a board. That's it. You're either placing a farming tile, an energy tile, or a village tile. Sometimes you want to really group these pieces together and score. Sometimes you want to win majority of cities for points. And sometimes you'll place your towel just to block someone else. Also depending where you place your towel, you might get to place a castle or a cathedral out. The castle will score in-game points and a cathedral will allow you to draw in-game scoring cards on the Scotland side.
Ep 9 eoisode: You will place your tile just to block someone else. Also, depending on where you place your tile, you might get to place a castle or a cathedral out. The castle will score in-game points, and a cathedral will allow you to draw in-game scoring cards on the Scotland side. So, on the surface, the game is really simple, but not as simple as his other amazing games when Reiner Kenitzi is on his A game.
In-Person: So on the surface, the game is really simple, but not as simple as his other amazing games when Rainer Kenitzia is on his A game.
Ep 9 eoisode: I have played it with my gaming group. I've also played this with my seven-year-old. She loves it and I'm secretly turning her into a Kenitsia groupie. That's unfortunate. Riner Kenitsia is like
In-Person: I have played it with my gaming group. I've also played this with my seven year old. in she loves it and I'm secretly turning her into a Kenitzia groupie. that's unfortunate. Reiner Kenitsia is like
Ep 9 eoisode: a band that I only need to have.
In-Person: A band that I only need to have the greatest hits compilation for. Rainer Knee is is queen. Ultimately great and one of, if not the best, live rock band of all time. But I want the best three songs on every album put together in a box set. I don't need to know own every album. He is not Vladimir Suchi or Shem Phillips for me.
Ep 9 eoisode: Ultimately great and one of, if not the best, live rock band of all time. But I want the best three songs on every album put together in a box set. I don't need to know own every album. He's not Vladimir Succi or Chef Phillips for me. Sorry.
In-Person: Sorry.
Ep 9 eoisode: I didn't think I was
In-Person: I didn't think I
Ep 9 eoisode: gonna like it because I thought it would be too random. you only draw one tile and place that random tile you drew out onto the board. Sounds very random. Also, when you draw an in-game scoring card,
In-Person: Also, when you draw an in-game scoring
Ep 9 eoisode: it's just off the top of the deck. And if you don't draw it early, then there's a big chance you won't meet the requirements to score it, or it just might be a random card that gives you points and you don't have to do anything. On the surface, I shouldn't enjoy this game, but there's some depth here, secretly hidden depth that feels tactical. You have to keep your opponent in check at the same time trying to advance your own score.
In-Person: Big chance you won't meet the requirements to score it, or it just might be a random card that gives you points and you don't have to do anything. On the surface, I shouldn't enjoy this game, but there's some depth here, secretly hidden depth that feels tactical. You have to keep your opponent in check at the same time trying to advance your own score.
Ep 9 eoisode: it also plays fast, a good thirty minutes, and that is it.
In-Person: it also plays fast. I got 30 minutes, and that is it.
Ep 9 eoisode: This game is very similar to Babylonia, but more approachable, and the scoring is easy for my seven-year-old to understand. Basically, every time you place a tile, you're going to score it. Unlike Unami, where you
In-Person: This game is very similar to Babylonia, but more approachable and the scoring is easy for my seven year old to understand. Basically every time you place a tile, you're going to score. Unlike Bunami, where you
Ep 9 eoisode: only score two or three points in rebirth, you can easily score 200 plus. So the game makes you feel good because you're always scoring points.
In-Person: only score two or three points in revert you can easily score two hundred plus. So the game makes you feel good because you're always scoring points.
Ep 9 eoisode: You almost get tired of having to reach over and keep moving your score marker.
In-Person: you almost get tired of having to reach over and keep moving your score marker. Alright, I I have to stop you. How do you keep your opponents in check when you only have one tile in your hand? I you you play the bet tile in the best spot to score points now. Maybe prepare a little bit for the future. If I have the ability to block, I'll do so. But for the most part, the other players are just sharing a board with you. This is like Kingdom Builder, but without the angst. Like Kingdom Builder had the same critique from people who have no concept. In Kingdom Builder, you're scratching and clawing for every outflank
Ep 9 eoisode: I you you play the bet title in the best spot to score points now. Maybe prepare a little bit for the future. If I have the ability to block, I'll do so, but for the most part, the other players are just sharing a board with you. This is like Kingdom Builder but without the angst. Like Kingdom Builder had the same critique for people who have no concept. In Kingdom Builder you're scratching and clawing for every out.
In-Person: or out maneuver. You're blocking constantly, creating opportunities for when certain terrain comes up.
Ep 9 eoisode: Constantly, creating opportunities for when certain terrain comes up. This doesn't have any of that. Hanami Samurai, which is what I'm calling it now, gives you so much control over how you use your hand of tiles and allows you many opportunities to thwart your opponents. I just don't get that from this game at all. The only thing that makes this game a touch more interesting is the Amon Ray like scoring cards. You draw them blind from the deck, you sculpt your game around that.
In-Person: This doesn't have any of that. Hanami Samurai, which is what I'm calling it now, gives you so much gives you so much control over how you use your hand of tiles and allows you many opportunities to thwart your opponents. I just don't get that from this game at all. The only thing that makes this game a touch more interesting is the Ammon Ray like scoring cards. You draw them blind from the deck, you sculpt your game around that. The Ireland side of the board even took that away from you. Only Scotland has that. So it's just.
Ep 9 eoisode: The Ireland side of board you even took that away from you. Only Scotland has that. So it's just I don't understand why you like this game. So I'll admit the game
In-Person: I don't understand why you like this game. So I'll admit the game
Ep 9 eoisode: wants you to referee each other, but but you can't. It's so short that you have to focus on scoring and not
In-Person: Can't it's so short that you have to focus on scoring and
Ep 9 eoisode: blocking, or you're gonna fall way behind. It's more about setting up your best score throughout the game. Now the island side it's it's very different.
In-Person: game. Now the island side it's it's very different.
Ep 9 eoisode: You no longer have gold cards that you randomly draw from the top of the deck. Instead, you have eight mission cards face up on the side of the board. Anytime you complete a mission, you place a token on the card. the first one to complete a mission gets more points than everyone else, and they can also still complete the mission, but for less points.
In-Person: You no longer have gold cards that you randomly draw from the top of the deck. Instead you have eight mission cards face up on the side of the board. Anytime you complete a mission you place a token on the card. the first one to complete a mission gets more points than everyone else and they can also still complete the mission but for less points.
Ep 9 eoisode: All the other rules are the same except there are these round tower tokens.
In-Person: All the other rules are the same except they're these round tower tokens placed throughout Iron. Whenever you play a tile adjacent to them, you get a bonus. Might be points, might be an extra tile placement, a times two, which will double the points of a mission card at the end of the game, and so forth. This side is a little bit more strategic than tactical. You can try to better plan out what you want to do instead of just reacting to your goal cards.
Ep 9 eoisode: Placed throughout Ireland. Whenever you play a tile adjacent to them, you get a bonus. Might be points, might be an extra tile placement, a times two, which will double the points of a mission card at the end of the game, and so forth. This side is a little bit more strategic than tactical. You can try to better plan out what you want to do instead of just reacting to your goal cards and tile draws on the Scotland side.
In-Person: And tile draws on the Scotland side.
Ep 9 eoisode: You might focus lot on the round tower tiles to get a lot of bonuses or or map out how you want to complete each mission cards. Now the Ironland side is not much more complex, but there's a few more rules. But there's a a lot more to take in at once as well. You need to really go over the layout of the map
In-Person: you might focus a lot on the round tower tiles to get a lot of bonuses or map out how you want to complete each mission card. Now the Ironman side is not much more complex, but there's a few more rules. But there's lot more to take in at once as well. You need to really go over the layout of the map.
Ep 9 eoisode: and those bonus tiles and fully comprehend the mission cards.
In-Person: And those bonus tiles and fully comprehend the mission cards.
Ep 9 eoisode: You're balancing a lot more in your head. At first, I thought I was gonna like this side more. You're not at the whims of those goal cards. Nope. Nope. Nope. There is no plan. You make the best play with your single tile and then you redraw. Just having those goal cards available doesn't change that you don't.
In-Person: You're balancing a lot more in your head. At first, I thought I was gonna like this side more. You're not at the whims of those goal cards. Nope. Nope. Nope. There is no plan. You make the best play with your single tile and then you redraw. Just having those goal cards available doesn't change that you don't control much of your destiny in this game. So I'll push back here a little.
Ep 9 eoisode: So I'll push back here a little. Having the gold cards out, I will say helps you know where I should start chaining my farms or my engines to score more bundles. If I connect my farms here, connect these round tiles, I can score this card, chain my energy on the edge of the map, I can score this and that card as well. Maybe a little bit, but you're right, not much. But the longer the game went on.
In-Person: out I will say it helps you know where I should start chaining my farms or my engines to score more bundles. If I connect my farms here, connect these round tiles, I can score this part chain my energy on the edge of the map, I can score this and that part as well. Maybe a little bit, but you're right, not much. But the longer the game went on,
Ep 9 eoisode: There was something about the Scotland side that I missed.
In-Person: there was something about the Scotland side that I missed.
Ep 9 eoisode: Ireland side slightly veers from a normal, simple, chunky Kenitsia that we've been talking about throughout this whole episode. It gives you more to think about and to wrap your head around. While some people might like this, I prefer the simple but important decision spaces of a classic Kenitsia.
In-Person: the Ireland side slightly veers from a normal, simple, Kenitzia that we've been talking about throughout this whole episode. It gives you more to think about to wrap your head around. While some people might like this, I prefer the simple but important decision spaces of a classic Kanitzia. if I were to play this again, I I don't think there's any reason not to play Scotland. but even so I don't care if I play this game again. The only thing that's good to say about this is the recycled pieces and the colorful board. The production is top notch. I'll give you that. It's just wasted on a game that is not as good as Hanami Samurai, Ingenious, Gold Country, etcetera.
Ep 9 eoisode: Thing that's good to say about this is the recycled pieces and the colorful board. The production is top-notch, I'll give you that. It's just wasted on a game that is not as good as Hanami Samurai, Ingenious, Gold Country, etc. You're right. And so right
In-Person: So right.
Ep 9 eoisode: now, I mean I enjoyed this game. It's not
In-Person: No.
Ep 9 eoisode: one of his best or anything like that, but it was enjoyable for what it was. I went in with low expectations and came out with a smile on my face. I love how much my kids love this game and how everyone I play this game with seems to enjoy it. So yeah, except you. So again, it's a good game, but for me, it does lack something that makes this one of Kenitzia's greats, like Through the Deserts or Celtus, or Raw. What makes a Kenitsia game a great game is when he balances simplicity with crunch, like in Lost Cities.
In-Person: game with seems to enjoy what's up me yeah it's absolutely so again it's a good game but for me it does lack something that makes this one of Kanditsia's greats like Through the Deserts or Hiltis or Raw. What makes a Kenitsia game a great game is when he balances simplicity with punch like in Lost Cities
Ep 9 eoisode: And all you have to do is play a single card,
In-Person: and all you have to do is play a single card.
Ep 9 eoisode: but you don't want to. And all you want to do is wait and draw one more card. So you have to make this tough decision, choose a card to play. In rebirth, when you play a tile, I'm not agonizing over its placement. There's usually an obvious good spot to place it. In Raw, I want to see if I can draw another tile and push my luck. But at the same time, I know I should just take what's on the board.
In-Person: But you don't want to, and all you want to do is wait and draw one more card. So you have to make this tough decision, choose a card to play. In rebirth, when you play a tile, I'm not agonizing over its placement. There's usually an obvious good spot to place it. In Raw, I'm gonna see if I can draw another tile and push my luck. But at the same time, I know I should just take what's on the board
Ep 9 eoisode: And through the desert,
In-Person: and through the desert.
Ep 9 eoisode: there's so many caravans I want to extend, to block another player, to reach an oasis. And Humani, I'm conflicted. In Hanami, sorry, slash samurai, I'm conflicted on which festival I want to surround, agonizing over which one I should focus on. But it's just placing a tile. For me, Kanitsia still is my heart.
In-Person: There's so many caravans. I want to extend, to block another player, to reach an oasis. And Humani, I'm What the hell is Humani? You mean Hanami? Hanami, sorry, slash Samurai. I'm conflicted. which festival? I want to surround agonizing over which one I should focus on. But it's just facing a tile. For me, Canitsius stills my heart.
Ep 9 eoisode: And reveals how great of a designer he is when he finds that balance of simplicity and crunch. He got close with this one. Close enough that I mean I enjoy it. It's definitely not Celtis, which is Kanitzia at his finest. And it's not Gold Country, which is way better. This doesn't make Rebirth a bad game for me.
In-Person: And reveals how great of a designer he is when he finds that balance of simplicity and crunch. Can you get close with this one? Close enough that I enjoy it. It's definitely not Cultus, which is Mitsia at his finest. And it's not Gold Country, which is way better. This doesn't make Rebirth a bad game. Yes it does. Flash Gordon is bad. Now give me flash and keep the rest. The fact that this game, this game, one Kenner Spiel, is a burden that weighs on my soul. It just goes to show you that these awards are for the game as a whole. That includes teachability, playability, components, production level. If
Ep 9 eoisode: Flash Gordon is bad. Give me flash and keep the rest. The fact that this game, this game, one can or spiel is a burden that weighs on my soul. It just goes to show you that these awards are for the game as a whole. That includes teachability, playability, components, production level.
In-Person: Moon Colony Bloodbath had a better production, would this be a different conversation? I think it's a better game for sure.
Ep 9 eoisode: Would this be a different conversation? I think it's a better game, for sure. I just I I don't how this one kind of spilled at all. And that's a game that definitely needs an
In-Person: I I just I I don't understand how this one can respille. I don't And that's a game that definitely needs
Ep 9 eoisode: upgrade. Moon Colony Bloodbath. And
In-Person: And
Ep 9 eoisode: you're right, I'm shocked that this one Kinnerspil, I think he definitely deserved it with Celtis.
In-Person: one Kinnersville. I think he definitely deserved it but Celtus
Ep 9 eoisode: And I cannot wait for my copy to come in. So did I enjoy it? Yes.
In-Person: So did I enjoy it? Yes.
Ep 9 eoisode: Are there thousand better Kenitzias out there? Hell yes. that's it for table flips this week. Thanks for joining us. Now get out there and play some better games. Bye. Bye.
In-Person: Are there thousand better convincias out there? Hell yes. that's it for tableclips this week. Thanks for joining us. Now get out there and play some better games. Bye. Bye.
In-Person: Welcome to Table Clips, the board gaming podcast by two grown men who sneak in the occasional dexterity game and call it cardio. Gotta the blood pumping. That's what I call a workout.
Ep 9 eoisode: On this week's episode, we talk about the games we've been playing. It's been a good week, Travis. Then we call another game followed by Flippin' a Table. We end this week's episode with our featured review, Rebirth. Did Kanitzia birth a new classic? Or is this another one of his games we need to sweep under the rug and not talk about anymore? Wake? What do you mean by wake, sweep? I'm so excited,
In-Person: It's been a good week, Travis. Then we pull another game followed by Flip and a Table. We end this week's episode with our feature review Revert. Did Nitzia birth new classic? Or is this another one of his games we need to sweep under the rug and not talk about anymore? Blake, what have you been playing this week? I'm so excited.
Ep 9 eoisode: Travis. so for spooky season, Abomination the Air Frankenstein, designed by Dan Blanchett and published by Plad Hat Games in 2019. Okay. I mentioned this a little bit last week, but it is spooky season, so I was able to pull out one of my favorite spooky games.
In-Person: And published by Flat Hat Games in 2019. Okay, I mentioned this a little bit last week, but it is spooky season, so I was able to pull out one of my favorite spooky games.
Ep 9 eoisode: This is a game that I cannot say is a good game.
In-Person: This is a game that I cannot say is a good
Ep 9 eoisode: game mechanic wise. But I still love it. It's my guilty pleasure game that I pull out every time Halloween comes around. Why can't I say it's a good game mechanically? Because this is a medium long Euro worker placement with a lot of luck, random events, and take that. Typically you describe a game like that to me and I'm running away as fast as I possibly can. Why do I keep coming back for punishment every year?
In-Person: game mechanic-wise. But I still love it. It's my guilty pleasure game that I pull up every time Olive comes around. Why can't I say it's a good game mechanically? Because this is a medium-long Euroworker placement with a lot of luck, random events, and take that. Typically, you describe a game like that to me and I'm running away as fast as I possibly can. Why do I keep coming back for punishment every year?
Ep 9 eoisode: Because this is the most thematic game
In-Person: Because this is the most thematic game that I ever played, Travis. You were playing a scientist mission/slash forced by Frankenstein's monster to create a companion for him. All the while Captain Robert Walton is trying to stop you. In this game, you're placing workers on a board to gather body parts to build your monster. You can go to the moor or instill a body or dig up a grave,
Ep 9 eoisode: That I've ever played, Travis. You were playing a scientist commission slash forced by Frankenstein's monster to create a companion for him. All the while the captain Robert Walton is trying to stop you. In this game, you're placing workers on a board to gather body parts to build your monster. You can go to the morgue and steal a body or dig up a grave. Or you might want something a little fresher
In-Person: or you might want something a little fresher.
Ep 9 eoisode: and bribe the executioner for the body of someone who was just killed. Or you might decide to murder someone yourself for the freshest body parts possible. Because, Travis, the fresher the body, the more points you can get when you build your monster. Come on. Everybody knows the fresher the body,
In-Person: And bribe the executioner for the body of someone who was just killed. Or you might decide to murder someone yourself for the freshest body parts possible. Because, Travis, the fresher the body, the more points you can get when you build your monster. Come on. Everybody knows the fresher the body.
Ep 9 eoisode: it makes for better parts for a monster. You might also decide that murdering someone is not your style.
In-Person: It makes for better parts for a monster. You might also decide that murdering someone is not your style
Ep 9 eoisode: Because you want to keep your humanity track positive. So just hire a dog catcher and use some animal parts. You might not get the most points out of the monster you build, but they still work and you might be able to sleep better at night. So you're balancing how you're getting body parts. You can also repent for your sins at the church or speak at the local university for research cards
In-Person: because you want to keep your humanity track positive. So just hire a dog catcher and use some animal parts. You might not get the most points out of the monster you build, but they still work and you might be able to sleep better at night. So you're balancing how you're getting body parts. You can also repent for your sins at the church or speak at the local university for a research. cards and cash the cards will grant you some bonuses
Ep 9 eoisode: and cash. The cards will grant you some bonuses. That might allow you to steal from your neighbor. At the end of the round, you construct your monster with the body parts you collected, building a beautifully gross monster. You then flip the switch to see if your monster parts come alive. You do this by rolling dice. Travis, I'm rolling dice in this hardcore Euro game. You might be successful, or you might just burn your body to a crisp and have to start over.
In-Person: that might allow you to steal from your neighbor. At the end of the round, you construct your monster with the body parts you collected, building a beautifully gross monster. You then flip the switch to see if your monster parts can align. You do this by rolling dice. Chops I'm rolling dice in this hardcore Euro game. You might be successful or you might just burn your body to a crisp over. Hmm. Reanimation
Ep 9 eoisode: animation.
In-Person: of monsters. That sounds delightful. Actually, it sounds like our current administration. Now this is a long
Ep 9 eoisode: Now, this is a long game, about three hours long. They actually came out with a variant to shorten it, but no, no, no, my friend, I prefer the long one. Every round you get an event card that might help or hurt players. You get a fun narrative throughout the game where the captain is trying to stop you. The game will end in one of two ways. You play it all the rounds, and the captain wins.
In-Person: You play it all the rounds and the captain wins.
Ep 9 eoisode: And you just add up your points to see who did it better than the other player or
In-Person: And you just add up your points to see who did it better than the other player, hopefully, someone brought their monster fully alive before the game comes to a conclusion. It's hard to recommend this game because, again, it has a lot of luck, but the luck is thematic.
Ep 9 eoisode: Hopefully someone brought their monster fully alive before the game comes to a conclusion. It's hard to recommend this game because again, it has a lot of luck, but the luck is thematic. So for some reason, I personally don't mind it. I'm building a flipping monster. It might not work out. There's some dice mitigation, which is nice. The artwork. it's beautiful. that's weird to say the artwork is beautiful in this game.
In-Person: For some reason, I personally don't mind it. I'm building a flipping monster. It might not work out. There's some dice mitigation, which is nice. The artwork, it's beautiful. that's weird to say the artwork is beautiful in this game,
Ep 9 eoisode: Cause each card that represents a body is disgustingly beautifully. So don't play this with kiddos because it shows a lot of dead bodies. Even the monsters you're building with, they just start with just the muscle parts.
In-Person: because each card that represents a body is disgustingly beautifully. So don't play this with kiddos, because it shows a lot of dead bodies. Even the monsters you're building with, they just start with just the muscle parts.
Ep 9 eoisode: And then you're gonna flip them to the side that has skin on them when you upgrade them. You have to look up the pictures for this game. It's it's pretty awesome.
In-Person: And then you're gonna put them to the side that has skin on them when you upgrade them. You have to look up the pictures for the skin. It's pretty awesome.
Ep 9 eoisode: So is this a good game? No. I I don't think mechanically it is, but is it amazingly fun? Yes. If you like this theme, then you might actually enjoy a hardcore Euro game that has a lot of luck. Take that and random event cards that will hurt you for no apparent reason. But it's so thematic.
In-Person: So is this a good game? No. I I don't think mechanically it is, but is it amazingly fun? Yes. If you like this theme, then you might actually enjoy a hardcore Euro game that has a lot of luck. Take that and random event cards that will hurt you for no apparent reason. But it's so thematic. So I've I have a question. Does that does that mean all the players can lose the game to the captain? No.
Ep 9 eoisode: No, it just it just changes the
In-Person: It just it just changes.
Ep 9 eoisode: scoring and there can still be a player that actually wins. Okay. I I've played games like this before.
In-Person: Okay. I I've played games like this before that are more narrative based. I can't say that they were my favorites. I think when I do, I prefer to have it be semi-co-op or co-op like Dead of Winter
Ep 9 eoisode: Dead of winter.
In-Person: or Mansions of Madness. the camaraderie kind of lessens the blow of random elements in my mind. I generally enjoy a game when my success in that game is aligned with my decisions during the game, in spite of the other players.
Ep 9 eoisode: I generally enjoy a game when my success in that game is aligned with my decisions during the game, in spite of the other players. I see the need of resorting to take that and random card draw mechanics as like character flaws in the game. could there be a thematic abomination without those elements? I don't know. I'd I'd like to try it once. Well, maybe just once.
In-Person: I see the need of resorting to take that and random card draw mechanics as character flaws in a game. could there be a thematic abomination without those elements? I don't know. I'd I'd like to try it once. Well maybe just once.
Ep 9 eoisode: So that was abomination the air Frankenstein. Designed by Dan Blanchett and published by Plaid Hat Games in 2019. Now, Travis, I said this was a good week for gaming, and I think I might actually need to get that Kanitia tattoo. Another one? Where's this one going? Actually, never mind. I'm I'm all set. Well, I fell in love with this next game.
In-Person: week for gaming. I think I might actually to get that Kenitsia set. No, another one? Where's this one going? Actually that never mind. I'm I'm all set. Well I fell in this next game.
Ep 9 eoisode: Yes, this is Celtis, designed by Rainer Kenizia, published by Cosmos in 2008.
In-Person: Yes, this is Keltis designed by Rainer Kenizia, published by Cosmos in two thousand and eight.
Ep 9 eoisode: This was the Spiel De Yaris in two thousand and eight and Rainer King's first Spiel win. Although he also won the Kingder Spiel that year
In-Person: this was the Spiel de Yaris in two thousand and eight and Rainer Kenizia's first spiel win, although he also won that Kingdra spiel that year.
Ep 9 eoisode: for a game we like playing with our kids called Who Was It? Do you remember that, Blake? I do not. You don't remember that? Yes, I got that one from you. Yeah.
In-Person: for a game we like playing with our kids called Who Was It? Do you remember that, Blake? I do not. You don't remember that? It's where it has the talking owl and you go around the castle. Yeah.
Ep 9 eoisode: I actually really enjoyed that game and I played it with my kids too young because when it talked to us, it scared the crap out of my kids. They started crying. That's a good game, yeah. It was.
In-Person: That's a good game, yeah.
Ep 9 eoisode: Yeah, so this Kemptis is a two to four player version of Lost Cities, which is a very popular two player card game. hesitate to talk about Kiltis because the game never really got a true US pressing. it was released by Rio Brand that same year as Lost Cities the Board Game, and the changes made by some combination of Rainer Kenizia and Jay Tumbleson just sunk that game.
In-Person: Yeah, so this Celtis is a two to four player version of Lost Cities, which is a very popular two player card game. I hesitate to talk about Celtas because the game never really got a true US pressing. it was released by Rio Grande that same year as Lost Cities the board game, and the changes made by some combination of Reiner Kenizia and Jay Tumlson just sunk that game.
Ep 9 eoisode: it's not very good. Do not go try and find
In-Person: it's not very good. Do not go try and find that. Celtis has Celtic artwork and is very themeless, as is to be expected for a Kenitsu game. I think that might be why, along with the success of Lost Cities, that Lost Cities the board game came to be. then Celtis you have a deck of 110 cards, two each of the numbers zero to ten in five colors. Each player is dealt eight cards.
Ep 9 eoisode: Celtis has Celtic artwork and is very themeless, as is to be expected for a Kenitsu game. think that might be why, along with the success of Lost Cities, that Lost Cities the board game came to be. Celtis, you have a deck of 110 cards, two each of the numbers 0 to 10 in five colors. Each player is dealt eight cards. there's a board with a track in each color.
In-Person: there's a board with a track in each color,
Ep 9 eoisode: And random elements are seated on the board. These might be points, free track moves, or these stones that you can collect. And they're just placed on various spots on the board. And like Lost Cities, on your turn, you'll play a card in front of you. You basically imagine you have one pile for each color. And then you take a card either from the draw deck or one of the shared discard piles. Unlike Lost Cities, there are no handshake cards. You can build
In-Person: and random elements are seated on the board. These might be points, free track moves, or these stones that you can collect. And they're just placed on various spots on the board. And like Lost Cities, on your turn, you'll play a card in front of you. You basically imagine you have one pile for each color. And then you take a card, either from the draw deck or one of the shared discard piles. Unlike Lost Cities, there are no handshake cards. You can build
Ep 9 eoisode: Your stacks in each color from low to high or high to low. Each card you play, you move up that track. You don't have to play in each color if you don't want to, and you may not want to because playing in the color is an investment. A victory point, so it takes you a number of cards in each color to break even. One of your tracks you can decide is work double for you. So you want to make sure you put that on your most successful color.
In-Person: your stacks in each color from low to high or high to low. each card you play, you move up that track. You don't have to play in each color if you don't want to, and you may not want to because playing in the color is an investment of victory points. So it takes you a number of cards in each color to break even. one of your tracks you can decide is worth double for you. So you want to make sure you put that on your most successful color.
Ep 9 eoisode: once five-player pieces amongst all players are in the area of the top three runs of the tracks, the game will end. You score each color. there's a separate scoring for all the stones you've collected, and then the high score wins. it's a very simple game. I always enjoy it just as much as I do Lost Cities. I like the angst here. It's just like Lost Cities has. but this is essentially a race game. So you have to think, should I discard and try to draw something better?
In-Person: once five player pieces amongst all players are in the area of the top three rungs of the tracks, the the game will end. You score each color. there's a separate scoring for all of the stones you've collected, and then the high score wins. it's a very simple game. I always enjoy it just as much as I do Lost Cities. I like the angst here. It's just like Lost Cities has. but it this is essentially a race game. So you have to think, should I discard and try and draw something better?
Ep 9 eoisode: Or do I hamper my ability to play in a color to get stones or move up the tracks faster to collect things? Or am I waiting too long to start in a color and I don't have enough time to play the cards I have? I'm surprised to see this has a 6.4 rating on BGG. Same here. I think it was never going to be a 7.5. Because it's a multiplayer version of a game that let's face it is meant to be a two player game.
In-Person: Or do I hamper my ability to play in a color to get stones or move up the tracks faster to collect things? Or am I waiting too long to start that color and I don't have enough time to play the cards I have? I'm surprised to see this has a six point four rating on BGG. I think it was never going to be a seven point five because it's a multiplayer version of a game that let's face it is meant to be a two player game.
Ep 9 eoisode: I don't know about Travis. I I don't know about that. I'm gonna push back, but go ahead.
In-Person: I mean Lost Cities, it's it's meant to be a two-player game. but it does look like the rating has been diluted over the years by noobs. It's like when you show a kid a cassette tape and they expect it to have every song ever produced since the beginning of time. Like this Celtus is where your new games come from, so show Reiner some
Ep 9 eoisode: Lost City's it's it's meant to be a two-player game. but it does look like the rating has been diluted over the years by noobs. It's like when you show a kid a cassette tape and they expect it to have every song you were produced since the beginning time. Like this Celtus is where your new games come from, so show Ryan or something.
In-Person: respect. Yeah,
Ep 9 eoisode: Travis, I'm so glad you showed me this game. I'm gonna play this more, but this might be my favorite Kenitia game. This takes the two player Lost Cities game and makes it a solid board game that plays just as well. I'm gonna try it with four, but at three players, it was a joy to play. that's why I was a little confused when you say, you know, it was meant to be a two player game.
In-Person: Travis, I'm so glad you showed me this game. I'm gonna play this more, but this might be my favorite Kenitia game. This takes the two-player Lost Cities game and makes it a solid board game that plays just as well. I'm gonna try it with four, but at three players, it was a joy to play. that's why I was a little confused when you say, you know, it was meant to be a two-player game. Like Lost Cities, the two-player game. Great game. Really enjoyed it. Playing this game.
Ep 9 eoisode: Lost Cities, the two-player game, great game, really enjoyed it. Playing this game blew that away from me. The
In-Person: blew that away from me. The tension to play a card or discard a card is agonizingly amazing. Because you're not just worried about that one other player, but multiple players. This is what Kanitzia does when he is on his A game. He designs a simple game, a game that can be explained and understood quickly, but with decisions that are just
Ep 9 eoisode: tension to play a card or discard a card is agonizingly amazing. Cause you're not just worried about that one other player, but multiple players. This is what Kanitzia does when he is on his A game. He designs a simple game, a game that can be explained and understood quickly, but with decisions that are just
In-Person: heartbreaking and agonizing. The fact that it comes with two boards, you have the simple version, which might be my favorite, and then you have one that's
Ep 9 eoisode: Heartbreaking and agonizing. The fact that it comes with two boards, you have the simple version, which might be my favorite, and then you have one that's has a little bit more of a complicated path.
In-Person: a little bit more of a complicated path.
Ep 9 eoisode: Both are great. I can play this with my kids or with my gaming group. Now, the art I will say after I played this game really grew on me. But I will admit that upon first look, the art doesn't stand out, but give it some grace because.
In-Person: Both are great. I can play this with my kids or with my gaming group. Now, the art, I will say after I played this game, really grew on me. But I will admit that upon first look, the art doesn't stand out. But give it some grace because
Ep 9 eoisode: It's an old game. It doesn't look like it will be fun, but once you play it, if it doesn't steal your heart, then you might need to check to see if you actually have a pulse. That's how much I loved this game, Travis.
In-Person: it's an old game. It doesn't look like it will be fun, but once you play it, if it doesn't still your heart, then you might need to check to see if you actually have a pulse. That's how much I loved this game, Travis.
Ep 9 eoisode: I want to play this more, but this game is in my top 10 of all time for sure. Maybe top five, maybe even higher. Insanity. All right, that was Celtus, designed by Rainic Anizia, published by Cosmos.
In-Person: I want to play this more, but this game is in my top ten of all time for sure. Maybe top five, maybe even higher. Insanity. Alright, that was Celtus, designed by Rainer Kenizia, published by Cosmos in 2008.
Ep 9 eoisode: Up next is Gold Country, designed by you guessed it, Reiner Kanitsia, published by Bytewing Games in 2026. This game is another tile layer from Reiner Kenitsia. Like many of his games, this is a re-implementation of Spectaculum from
In-Person: You guessed it? Reiner Tenitzia published by Bitewing Games in twenty twenty-six. This game is another title layer from Reiner Tenitsia. Like many of his games, this is a reimplementation of Spectaculum from Eggertspieler and R and R Games in twenty twelve.
Ep 9 eoisode: And R and R games in twenty twelve.
In-Person: Yeah, I I played that. It was ugly. The theme didn't make any
Ep 9 eoisode: Theme didn't make any sense.
In-Person: sense at all. it was ultimately forgettable. it didn't help that 2012 was one of the best years in board game history. 2012 was like Music's
Ep 9 eoisode: Like music's
In-Person: 1992. at first when this reprint was announced, I thought they were reprinting Gold West from J. Alex Kevin with these nice new components, and I was going to be like, take my money. I saw it was spectaculum and I said, Aww. Just like that out loud. I was that disappointed.
Ep 9 eoisode: Old West from J. Alex Kevin with these nice new components, and I was going to be like, take my money. I saw it was spectacular, and I said, Awww, just like that out loud. I was that disappointed. but everything deserves a shot.
In-Person: but everything deserves a shot.
Ep 9 eoisode: And I'm glad you gave this a shot, Travis. And in this game, you are a gold rush investor developing minds and buying slash selling shares. It's a wonderful stock market manipulation game. The board is just a jumble of hexes with different types of tokens scattered about. At each corner of the board is a mine ready to be developed. On your turn, you place three tints on the board that are drawn randomly from a bag, similar to Through the Desert. The tints come in four colors and each color matches a certain mine on the board. You place these tints on hex spaces that are connected to the mine or a previously placed tint of that same color.
In-Person: Different types of tokens scattered about. At each corner of the board is a mine ready to be developed. On your turn, you place three tents on the board that are drawn randomly from a bag, similar to Through the Desert. The tents come in four colors and each color matches a certain mine on the board. You place these tents on hex spaces that are connected to the mine or a previously placed tint of that same color.
Ep 9 eoisode: While doing so, you might place a tent on a space that has a token.
In-Person: While doing so, you might place a tent on a space that has a token.
Ep 9 eoisode: That token might increase or decrease the price the stock of that mine. It might cause a mine collapse, causing players who own shares in the mine to pay to fix the collapse. After or before you place the tents, you can buy or sell any share in a mine. You might want to take a stock and buy low, knowing that you'll raise that price later. You might notice your opponent has a lot of stock.
In-Person: That token might increase or decrease the price of the stock of that mine. It might cause a mine collapse, causing players who own shares in the mine to pay to fix the collapse. After or before you place the tense, you can buy or sell any share in a mine. You might want to take a stock and buy low, knowing that you'll raise that price later. You might notice your opponent has a lot of stock
Ep 9 eoisode: In a specific company, so you cause that mine to collapse.
In-Person: in a specific company, so you cause that mine to collapse.
Ep 9 eoisode: And because they have a lot of shares in that mine, they have to pay a lot of money to fix it. The rules are simple, but just like Kenitzia, the decisions are crunchy and are vital to your success or your failure.
In-Person: And because they have a lot of shares in that line, they have to pay a lot of money to fix it. The rules are simple, but just like Kanitzia, the decisions are crunchy and are vital to your success or your failure.
Ep 9 eoisode: Later on, black tints will be added to the drawbag, and if you ever get to place them, you can cause a token to be taken off the board.
In-Person: Later on, black tents will be added to the drawback. If you ever get to place them, you can cause a token to be taken off the board.
Ep 9 eoisode: You might want to do this to stop someone from grabbing a token, causing a mine you have a lot of shares in to collapse. Once all the tents are drawn or all seven main gold veins are mined, then the game ends. Trade everything in for money and the most money wins. What'd you think, Travis? Well
In-Person: You might want to do this to stop someone from grabbing a token, causing the mine you have a lot of shares in to collapse. Once all the tents are drawn or all seven main gold gains are mined, then the game ends. Trade everything in for money and the most money wins. What'd you think, Charles? Well, I win ordered. It nice
Ep 9 eoisode: Woohoo. Nice.
In-Person: flip-flop from Spectaculum, Travis. Good job. I had to have the full deluxe components because I think they add in every way to this game. This is such a simple concept that was waiting for someone to put forth effort in updating the system and to dress up the art and the production. I it's just as fast as Through the Desert, but you have this added layer of stock manipulation that reminds me of
Ep 9 eoisode: But you have this added layer of stock manipulation that reminds me of
In-Person: Acquire or Union Pacific. Once the board is randomly set up.
Ep 9 eoisode: Once the board is randomly set up, I I can visualize a path through this game and then I just try to set that plan into motion. in our game, I was dealt the white company as my hidden stock. So I figured I could go about it in two ways. I could invest early, which may have caused all the players to go, well I better invest early and help the white stock grow in value. I felt that would probably diminish my margin.
In-Person: I I could visualize a path through this game and then I just tried to set that plan into motion. in our game, I was dealt the white company as my hidden stock. So I figured I could go about it in two ways. I could invest early, which may have caused all the players to go, well, I better invest early and help the white stock grow in value. And I felt that would probably diminish my margin. But I decided instead to just make the stock for that company so expensive that nobody else would want to buy it.
Ep 9 eoisode: But I decided instead to just make the stock for that company so expensive that nobody else would want to buy it. And then once I got it to 10, I bought it a couple of times, knowing that I could continue to make it grab more value by the end of the game. And I made it tough for you and the other player to want to invest in it at that point. was also a stock I was sure to tank, and now one turn you guys made specific actions to try and save it. So I brought it down and bought it. Now
In-Person: And then once I got it to ten, I bought it a couple of times, knowing that I could continue to make it grab more value by the end of the game. And I made it tough for you and the other player to want to invest in it at that point. there was also a stock I was sure to tank, and then on one turn you guys made specific actions to try and save it. So I brought it down and bought it. Now
Ep 9 eoisode: I left the players with a crazy decision. Like, it's one of those
In-Person: I left the players with the crazy decision, like it's one of those things.
Ep 9 eoisode: things that just makes this such a fun game. I'm going to use this to teach my kids about investments.
In-Person: Things that just makes this such a fun game. I'm gonna use this to teach my kids about investments.
Ep 9 eoisode: This was simple enough that I can play a solid game with my seven and ten year old. I was teaching them a stock market investment game, stock market manipulation at that age. And Travis, yeah, that blew my mind that they were able to easily pick that up. How amazing is that.
In-Person: Manipulation at that age. And Travis, yeah, that blew my mind that they were able to easily pick that up. How amazing is that?
Ep 9 eoisode: But the decision space is so crunchy that big time gamers will definitely eat this up. And this is what Kanitzia does when he's on his A game. And he was definitely on it with this one. Again, just like Keltus. There are even one-off bonus cards to the side that you can buy on your turn. You might pay three coins to grab a certain color tent and get to place it out as well. So now you're placing four tents out on your turn. These are also only one-time use.
In-Person: But the decisions phase is so crunchy that big time gamers will definitely eat this up. And this is what Kanitsian does when he's on his A game. And he was definitely on it with this one. Again, just like Celtus. There are even one-off bonus cards to the sign that you can buy on your turn. You might pay three points to grab a certain colored tent and get to place it out as well. So now you're placing four tents out on your turn. These are also only one time use.
Ep 9 eoisode: Don't like tints
In-Person: Tints you drew from the bag. Well, there's a card that allows you to pay three coins, and redraw. So much fun. The components for this game are great. The tokens are these nice plastic bits, the tents are chunky pieces of wood. I purchased some of the upgrades and got the gold painting pans to hold the money. Now I think these are the heaviest components for board game that I have.
Ep 9 eoisode: you drew from a bag? Well, there's a card that allows you to pay three coins, and redraw. So much fun. The components for this game are great. The tokens are these nice plastic bits. The tints are chunky pieces of wood. I purchased some of the upgrades and got the gold painting pans to hold the money. Now, I think these are the heaviest components for board game that I have. They are solid
In-Person: They are so Solid metal. The coins are these nice gold metal coins that clink beautifully in the pants. These are the type of components that just really pull you into the gameplay. reading?
Ep 9 eoisode: metal. The coins are these nice gold metal coins that clink beautifully in the pants. These are the type of components that just really pull you into the gameplay. And that was Gold Country, designed by Reiner Kenitia, published by Bytewing Games in 2026. Travis, I'm so glad you loved it.
In-Person: And that was Gold Country, designed by Reiner Kenizia, published by White Wing Games in twenty twenty six. Travis, I'm so glad you loved it.
Ep 9 eoisode: Now our Call of the Week, it's ours.
In-Person: Now our call of the week, it's ARCS. Designed by Cole Whirley and published by Leader Games in twenty twenty four. Blake, why are you calling this game?
Ep 9 eoisode: Travis, I was really excited about this game. I am hit and miss when it comes to Cole Whirley. Although I always appreciate his
In-Person: Although I always appreciate
Ep 9 eoisode: designs and the way he pushes board games in different ways. I really enjoy his take on PAX Premiere 2nd Edition, and that will always stay in my collection for now. I was excited when I heard about a 4X game by Cole Whirley where the main mechanic was a trick taking mechanic. I played this a few times. I think I won most of the games that I've played.
In-Person: in different ways. I really enjoy his take on PAX Premiere 2nd Edition and that will always stay in my collection for now. I was excited when I heard about a Vorex game by Co-Worly where the main mechanic was a trick-ticking mechanic. I played this a few times. I think I won most of the games that I've
Ep 9 eoisode: played of this, but that doesn't matter. So
In-Person: made of this but that doesn't matter. So
Ep 9 eoisode: imagine a game of trick taking where the actions you take are on the cards you play. Sometimes you want to win the trick which will allow you to lead in the next round and maybe claim an ambition. By claiming an ambition, you are choosing what will score at the end of that round.
In-Person: Imagine a game of trick taking where the actions you take are on the cards you play. Sometimes you want to win the trick which will allow you to lead in the next round and maybe claim ambition. By claiming an ambition, you are choosing what will score at the end of that round.
Ep 9 eoisode: I loved how the players choose throughout the game round what will and won't score.
In-Person: I loved how the players choose throughout the game round what will and what score.
Ep 9 eoisode: What I didn't like was how sporadic it felt. You think you might be leading in one area, but the tides can turn drastically no matter how one sets themselves up. I know many people felt frustrated because they felt that the hands that they were dealt each round dictated what they could do.
In-Person: What I didn't like was how sporadic it felt. You think you might be leading in one area, but the tides can turn drastically, no matter how one sets themselves up. I know many people felt frustrated because they felt that the hands that they were dealt each rounds dictated what they could do.
Ep 9 eoisode: In a way it does, but I felt like the point was to find out how your hand can be played to better your position on the board to score that round. More tactical than strategic. You couldn't go in with a big plan with what you want to do each round. You have to have the game deal you your cards, then you try to figure out through the cards you have what will best be played. I actually enjoyed that aspect, but just got tiring.
In-Person: In a way it does, but I felt like the point was to find out how your game can be played to better your position on the board to score that round. More tactical than strategic. You couldn't go in with a big plan with what you want to do each round. You have to have the game deal you your cards, then you try to figure out for the cards you have what will best be played. I actually enjoyed that aspect. What just got tiring
Ep 9 eoisode: was no matter how you played the game, it just felt
In-Person: was no matter how you played the game, it just felt like a constant back and forth where everyone had to keep everyone in check. It was difficult to plan your turns because the board state would change drastically before your turn came back around. This easily leads to key making. The players can quickly build up powers that can easily be stripped by other players the very next round. It was just so swingy which made the game feel exhausting.
Ep 9 eoisode: like a constant back and forth where everyone had to keep everyone in check. It was difficult to plan your turns because the board state would change drastically before your turn K back around. This easily leads to king making. The players can quickly build up powers that can easily be stripped by other players the very next round. It was just so swingy which made the game feel exhausting. I enjoyed aspects of the game, but in the end, after
In-Person: I enjoyed aspects of the game but in the end after
Ep 9 eoisode: each play, I was just emotionally exhausted, Travis. Not in a good way, where I used my mind to figure out a good puzzle, rather exhausted by the emotional back and forth of the flow of the game.
In-Person: each play I was just emotionally exhausted Travis not in a good way where I used my mind to figure out a good puzzle rather exhausted by the emotional back and forth of the flow of the game.
Ep 9 eoisode: I felt like a fool to almost get invested, which one needs to be in a 4X game. Maybe I'm wrong, but I'm ready to give this burden to someone else. I haven't
In-Person: I felt like a fool to almost get invested, which one needs to be in a 4X game. Maybe I'm wrong, but I'm ready to give this burden to someone else. I haven't
Ep 9 eoisode: Try that Bright Reach expansion which makes this game into a campaign game. Travis, I I don't have the emotional fortitude for that. I can't imagine making this game a campaign. I know there are people out there that love this, but for me, life is just way too short. I hate this game. I hate so many aspects of this game. It's hard to explain without charts and graphs. first I hate games where theme and story could have been added.
In-Person: tried that Bright Reach expansion which makes this game into a campaign game. Travis, I I don't have the emotional fortitude for that. I can't imagine making this game a campaign. I know there are people out there that love this, but for me life I hate this game. I hate so many aspects of this game. It's hard to explain without charts and graphs. first, I hate games where theme and story could have been added in very simple places, but instead you get this generic function only. I had the same issue with expeditions, scythe, whatever they called it. What what put scythe over the top for me was the encounters and the story. Not a lot of theme.
Ep 9 eoisode: simple places but instead you get this generic function only. I had the same issue with expeditions, scythe, whatever they called it. What put scythe over the top for me was the encounters and the story. Not a lot of theme, just a little. The board and the powers were evocative of world powers and they were all trying to get to the center of the board first. It was dry but the art and the encounters filled in nicely. And then expeditions got rid of that.
In-Person: Just a little. The board and the powers were evocative of world powers, and they were all trying to get to the center of the board first. It was dry, but the art and the encounters filled in nicely. And then Expeditions got rid of that. So everything you do in the game was generic. Who are you fighting? Ugh, orange and purple. Orange and purple what? And Ark says the same problem. You have a problem with getting players to fight on a map. Well, let's just make the map concentric circles.
Ep 9 eoisode: So everything you do in the game was generic. Who are you fighting? orange or purple? Orange or purple what? And Ark says the same problem. You have a problem with getting players to fight on a map? Well, let's just make the map concentric circles. Where? That doesn't matter, who gives a shit? The trick taking also was just implemented so poorly. It's the worst kind of trick taker. You have good cards? Well you do well. You have bad cards? Well better look next round.
In-Person: Where? It doesn't matter. Who gives a shit? The trick taking also was just implemented so poorly. It's the worst kind of trick taker. You have good cards, well, you'll do well. You have bad cards, well, better luck next round. It was so static and uninteresting. And then throw on top of that the swingy and massive over overly powered cards, and I was done. I just don't get the hype. I'm not a four X guy anyway, but there are just so many games that do this so much better.
Ep 9 eoisode: It was so static and uninteresting. And then throw on top of that the swingy and massive overly powered cards and I was done. I just don't get the hype. I'm not a four X guy anyway, but there are just so many games that do this so much better. not great, but just better. So I agreed. Blake, it was good good call. Blanvoyage Arcs.
In-Person: not great, but just better. So I agree, Blake, it was good good call. Bon voyage arcs.
Ep 9 eoisode: And that was ARCS designed by Cole Worley and published by Leader Games in 2024. Now on to table flips. Travis, what tables are you flipping today? my table flip this week is Philgs, the friendly local game store. or as I will modify it for this rant, the Ilgs are just the local game store. Because more and more I see local game stores be
In-Person: my table flip this week is Filgs, the friendly local game store. or as I will modify it for this rant, the Ilgs, or just a local game store. Because more and more I see local game stores be not so friendly to John Q Board Gamer. I used to travel a lot for work and would always make it a priority to check out the local Ilgs, hopingly hoping that it would be a Filgs.
Ep 9 eoisode: Not so friendly to John Q WardGamer. I used to travel a lot for work and would always make it a priority to check out the local ilds openly, hoping that it would be a filgs. But I would say only one in five were fils. There were a lot of ugly ilgs out there. Now I want to preface this by saying I realize that owning a board game-centric store must be tough. Low sales, low margins.
In-Person: But I would say only one in five were filgs. There were a lot of ugly ilgs out there. Now I want to preface this by saying I realize that owning a board game centric store must be tough. Low sales, low margins, cheap board gamers that want a place to play with their butt crack visible while they bring in their drinks and food and then order their games from game nerds. but I see a lot of stores not even try to turn that frown upside down.
Ep 9 eoisode: Cheap board gamers that want a place to play with their butt crack visible while they bring in their drinks and food and then order their games from Game Nerds. But I see a lot of stores not even try to turn that frown upside down, or more aptly that uncovered butt crack sideways. Yes, I'm sure you make more money hawking coordinates to the appleseds, Warhammer minis, Pokemon cards. And my thing is if you don't know board games,
In-Person: Or more aptly that uncovered butt crack sideways. Yes, I'm sure you make more money hawking corn nuts to the appleseeds, warhammer minis, Pokemon cards. And my thing is if you don't know board games, then I'd rather you just didn't sell them and save me the trip. it will just be a burden for you as a game store owner. Or instead you could put some effort into it. Why not be good at everything?
Ep 9 eoisode: Then I'd rather you just didn't sell them and save me the trip. it will just be a burden for you as a game store owner. Or instead you could put some effort into it. Why not be good at everything? Why not have an inviting store for all types of games and gamers? Why ilgs and not filgs? Now when I walk into my local game store, I get the same things.
In-Person: Why not have an inviting store for all types of games and gamers? Why ilgs and not filgs? When I walk into my local game store, I get the same things. Shelves covered in board games at retail price that nobody wants. Sorry, people don't want that dusty 20-year-old copy of Mall World.
Ep 9 eoisode: Shelves covered in board games at retail price that nobody wants. Sorry, people don't want that dusty 20-year-old copy of Maul World. Clear your shelves and cut your losses by selling your poor choices at 50 to 75% off. I also get the same dumb stare from every mouth breather behind the counter in every store. They are like NPCs. I know these stores can't afford to pay a road scholar, but
In-Person: Clear your shelves and cut your losses by selling your poor choices at fifty to seventy five percent off. I also get the same dumb stare from every mouth breather behind the counter in every store. They are like NPCs. I know these stores can afford to pay a road scholar, but
Ep 9 eoisode: As a game store owner, demand more from your employees. Demand they be knowledgeable about your product. they
In-Person: as a game store owner, demand more from your employees. Demand they be knowledgeable about your product. They have no answers for the customers' questions. They should be setting something up, demoing a game, using social media to create events, getting people excited to come into your store, managing your pre-order system. And that is another thing that these stores get wrong. Create a community. Even if there already is one.
Ep 9 eoisode: have no answers for the customer's questions. They should be setting something up, demoing a game, using social media to create events, getting people excited to come into your store, managing your pre-order system. And that is another thing that these stores get wrong. Create a community, even if there already is one.
In-Person: Talk to your customers. Find out what they like. If they offer to help, take it. Would I rather buy ticket to ride in Target?
Ep 9 eoisode: Talk to your customers, find out what they like. If they offer to help, take it. Would I rather buy a ticket to ride and target? Or a store that has an event for it and teaches me how to play, gives me promos, allows me to meet people. I think the biggest thing here is effort. I see a lot of lackadays called game store owners. Clueless people who are first to whine that owning a store is tough and sales are down. Yeah, no shit. It's probably because when somebody suggests that they meet up at your store,
In-Person: Or a store that has an event for it and teaches me how to play, gives me promos, allows me to meet people. I think the biggest thing here is effort. I see a lot of lackadaisical game store owners. Clueless people who are first to whine that owning the store is tough and sales are down. Yeah, no shit. It's probably because when somebody suggests that they meet up at your store, the
Ep 9 eoisode: The response is, do I have to? It smells like Taco Belfart in there. Instead of, hey, that's a good idea.
In-Person: response is, Do I have to? It smells like Taco Belfart in there. Instead of, hey, that's a good idea.
Ep 9 eoisode: It's about laziness, in my opinion. It's not an ills, it's an ill ills, a lazy local game store. It takes work to own your own store. Get up and do something, even if it fails. Get that refrigerator fixed. Nobody's had a cold drink in four years. Fix that ceiling tile. Clean the bathroom.
In-Person: it's about laziness in my opinion. It's not an ilgs, it's a ill ilgs, a lazy local game store. It takes work to own your own store. Get up and do something, even if it fails. Get that refrigerator fixed. Nobody has had a cold drink in four years. Fix that ceiling tile. Clean the bathroom.
Ep 9 eoisode: If you don't know a sector of your business, ask somebody to consult for you. Put people and games together and make it at your shore. And
In-Person: If you don't know a sector of your business, ask somebody to consult for you. Put people in games together and make it at your store. And for God's sakes, fire Doug. He's scaring everybody away.
Ep 9 eoisode: for God's sakes, fire Doug. He's scaring everybody away. I I I love this table flip. Again, owning a how you put it? Ligs, Ligs? Sure. LGS in this economy has to be tough. Trying to win against big chains has to be difficult. Is it all about laziness? Who knows? I'm sure there are a thousand factors for why a lot of LGS end up like that. The point is they do end up like that. And it's frustrating because you're right. When I go to a new town and want to visit an LGS, most of the time it's just TCG, trading card games. And they have a few dusty old games that might be sun bleached for being too close to the glass windows. This
In-Person: Do end up like that. And it's frustrating because you're right. When I go to a new town and want to visit an LGS, most of the time it's just TCG trading card games. And they have a few dusty old games that might be sun-bleached for being too close to the glass windows. This
Ep 9 eoisode: Doesn't welcome people to our hobby. I know a few off the top of my head that are amazing, but I imagine
In-Person: doesn't welcome people to our hobby. I know a few off the top of my head that are amazing, but I imagine.
Ep 9 eoisode: it takes a lot of work. A lot of work. And for those that can keep it up, my hat is off to you and I praise your efforts. Thank you, those that are able to do that. So that was our table flip for this week by Travis.
In-Person: It takes a lot of work. A lot of work. And for those that can keep it up, my hat is off to you and I praise your efforts. Thank you, those that are able to do that. So that was our cable clip for this week by Travis.
Ep 9 eoisode: Hi. Welcome to the dragon's nutsack.
In-Person: Okay, can you help me?
Ep 9 eoisode: No
In-Person: okay, thank you.
Ep 9 eoisode: Thank you.
In-Person: do you have a duster?
Ep 9 eoisode: i is that a war hammer thing? No
In-Person: No, I w I want actual feather duster. I'm getting mesothelioma right now.
Ep 9 eoisode: Getting Mesothelioma right now. Haha We have that magic card. Mesotheliomia. yeah. Two black mana.
In-Person: I'm looking for a copy of Grey Loon.
Ep 9 eoisode: We we don't make copies, man. The this isn't Kinko's. No no no.
In-Person: No no no. The the board game Grey Loon.
Ep 9 eoisode: Grey lung? I thought we discussed that earlier. You need to talk to Doug. He's our magic guy. never mind. He's asleep. Is that a raccoon in the corner? Yeah, he's been here all day. Not sure why. We don't have any snacks. I would call animal control, but my phone is all the way over there
In-Person: need talk to Doug. He's our magic guy. never mind. He's asleep. That's is that a raccoon in the corner? Yeah, he's been here all day. Not sure why. We don't have any snacks. what we call animal control, but my phone is all the way over.
Ep 9 eoisode: and and I've come too far.
In-Person: Come too far. Where where's the owner? he he doesn't work on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, or or even Sunday. so so Thursdays then?
Ep 9 eoisode: he he doesn't work on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, or or even Sunday. So so Thursdays then? Well Thursday morning
In-Person: There's a
Ep 9 eoisode: from like eleven to to noon.
In-Person: great. Well this has really been something. Okay. Come back again.
Ep 9 eoisode: This has really been something. Okay, come back again. But but not on Friday. My friends and I
In-Person: Yeah.
Ep 9 eoisode: were playing that new miniature RPG, the King's turds. It's it's awesome.
In-Person: Miniature RPG, the King's Turns. It's it's awesome.
Ep 9 eoisode: Now on to our feature review rebirth by Reiner Canisi.
In-Person: Now on to our feature review, Rebirth by Reiner Kenitsia, published by Mighty Boards in twenty twenty four.
Ep 9 eoisode: Travis, I'm gonna come out and say it. I enjoyed the game.
In-Person: I don't. Continue. You can either place
Ep 9 eoisode: You can either play Scotland or the Ireland side. I have played Scotland side about eight to
In-Person: Eight.
Ep 9 eoisode: ten times, but only the Ireland side once. So I enjoy the game. I have to say that because when I read the rules, I didn't think I was going to. It's another tile-lane game from the doc. He's got a lot out there. And if you listen to the show, you might remember one of my jokes was how this game won the Kinnerspiel DeJarris.
In-Person: I enjoyed the game. I have to say that because when I read the rules, I didn't think I was going to. It's another tile-laying game from the dock. He's got a lot out there. And if you listen to the show, you might remember one of my jokes was how this game won the kinners filled the jars. Who knew all you had to do was redesign the same game over and over and over to finally win. This game just seems like another take on one of the dock's mini tile layers.
Ep 9 eoisode: Who knew all you had to do was redesign the same game over and over and over to finally win? This game just seems like another take on one of the dock's mini tile layers. The dock has a lot of amazing tile laying games out there: Through the Desert, Blue Lagoon, Tigers and Euphrates, Samurai, Babylonia, and a lot more. some of these are quite different. Some
In-Person: The dock has a lot of amazing tile land games out there. Through the Desert, Blue Lagoon, Tigers in Euphrates, Samurai, Babylonia, and a lot more. are quite different. Some
Ep 9 eoisode: Are very similar with a little twists. Sometimes those twists are good, sometimes they're not. So in this game, you're gonna draw a tile from your pile of tiles
In-Person: are very similar with a little twist. Sometimes those twists are good. Sometimes they're not. So in this game, you're gonna draw a tile from your pile of tiles.
Ep 9 eoisode: and play it on a board. That's it. You're either placing a farming tile, an energy tile, or a village tile. Sometimes you want to really group these pieces together to score. Sometimes you want to win majority in cities for points, and sometimes
In-Person: and play it on a board. That's it. You're either placing a farming tile, an energy tile, or a village tile. Sometimes you want to really group these pieces together and score. Sometimes you want to win majority of cities for points. And sometimes you'll place your towel just to block someone else. Also depending where you place your towel, you might get to place a castle or a cathedral out. The castle will score in-game points and a cathedral will allow you to draw in-game scoring cards on the Scotland side.
Ep 9 eoisode: You will place your tile just to block someone else. Also, depending on where you place your tile, you might get to place a castle or a cathedral out. The castle will score in-game points, and a cathedral will allow you to draw in-game scoring cards on the Scotland side. So, on the surface, the game is really simple, but not as simple as his other amazing games when Reiner Kenitzi is on his A game.
In-Person: So on the surface, the game is really simple, but not as simple as his other amazing games when Rainer Kenitzia is on his A game.
Ep 9 eoisode: I have played it with my gaming group. I've also played this with my seven-year-old. She loves it and I'm secretly turning her into a Kenitsia groupie. That's unfortunate. Riner Kenitsia is like
In-Person: I have played it with my gaming group. I've also played this with my seven year old. in she loves it and I'm secretly turning her into a Kenitzia groupie. that's unfortunate. Reiner Kenitsia is like
Ep 9 eoisode: a band that I only need to have.
In-Person: A band that I only need to have the greatest hits compilation for. Rainer Knee is is queen. Ultimately great and one of, if not the best, live rock band of all time. But I want the best three songs on every album put together in a box set. I don't need to know own every album. He is not Vladimir Suchi or Shem Phillips for me.
Ep 9 eoisode: Ultimately great and one of, if not the best, live rock band of all time. But I want the best three songs on every album put together in a box set. I don't need to know own every album. He's not Vladimir Succi or Chef Phillips for me. Sorry.
In-Person: Sorry.
Ep 9 eoisode: I didn't think I was
In-Person: I didn't think I
Ep 9 eoisode: gonna like it because I thought it would be too random. you only draw one tile and place that random tile you drew out onto the board. Sounds very random. Also, when you draw an in-game scoring card,
In-Person: Also, when you draw an in-game scoring
Ep 9 eoisode: it's just off the top of the deck. And if you don't draw it early, then there's a big chance you won't meet the requirements to score it, or it just might be a random card that gives you points and you don't have to do anything. On the surface, I shouldn't enjoy this game, but there's some depth here, secretly hidden depth that feels tactical. You have to keep your opponent in check at the same time trying to advance your own score.
In-Person: Big chance you won't meet the requirements to score it, or it just might be a random card that gives you points and you don't have to do anything. On the surface, I shouldn't enjoy this game, but there's some depth here, secretly hidden depth that feels tactical. You have to keep your opponent in check at the same time trying to advance your own score.
Ep 9 eoisode: it also plays fast, a good thirty minutes, and that is it.
In-Person: it also plays fast. I got 30 minutes, and that is it.
Ep 9 eoisode: This game is very similar to Babylonia, but more approachable, and the scoring is easy for my seven-year-old to understand. Basically, every time you place a tile, you're going to score it. Unlike Unami, where you
In-Person: This game is very similar to Babylonia, but more approachable and the scoring is easy for my seven year old to understand. Basically every time you place a tile, you're going to score. Unlike Bunami, where you
Ep 9 eoisode: only score two or three points in rebirth, you can easily score 200 plus. So the game makes you feel good because you're always scoring points.
In-Person: only score two or three points in revert you can easily score two hundred plus. So the game makes you feel good because you're always scoring points.
Ep 9 eoisode: You almost get tired of having to reach over and keep moving your score marker.
In-Person: you almost get tired of having to reach over and keep moving your score marker. Alright, I I have to stop you. How do you keep your opponents in check when you only have one tile in your hand? I you you play the bet tile in the best spot to score points now. Maybe prepare a little bit for the future. If I have the ability to block, I'll do so. But for the most part, the other players are just sharing a board with you. This is like Kingdom Builder, but without the angst. Like Kingdom Builder had the same critique from people who have no concept. In Kingdom Builder, you're scratching and clawing for every outflank
Ep 9 eoisode: I you you play the bet title in the best spot to score points now. Maybe prepare a little bit for the future. If I have the ability to block, I'll do so, but for the most part, the other players are just sharing a board with you. This is like Kingdom Builder but without the angst. Like Kingdom Builder had the same critique for people who have no concept. In Kingdom Builder you're scratching and clawing for every out.
In-Person: or out maneuver. You're blocking constantly, creating opportunities for when certain terrain comes up.
Ep 9 eoisode: Constantly, creating opportunities for when certain terrain comes up. This doesn't have any of that. Hanami Samurai, which is what I'm calling it now, gives you so much control over how you use your hand of tiles and allows you many opportunities to thwart your opponents. I just don't get that from this game at all. The only thing that makes this game a touch more interesting is the Amon Ray like scoring cards. You draw them blind from the deck, you sculpt your game around that.
In-Person: This doesn't have any of that. Hanami Samurai, which is what I'm calling it now, gives you so much gives you so much control over how you use your hand of tiles and allows you many opportunities to thwart your opponents. I just don't get that from this game at all. The only thing that makes this game a touch more interesting is the Ammon Ray like scoring cards. You draw them blind from the deck, you sculpt your game around that. The Ireland side of the board even took that away from you. Only Scotland has that. So it's just.
Ep 9 eoisode: The Ireland side of board you even took that away from you. Only Scotland has that. So it's just I don't understand why you like this game. So I'll admit the game
In-Person: I don't understand why you like this game. So I'll admit the game
Ep 9 eoisode: wants you to referee each other, but but you can't. It's so short that you have to focus on scoring and not
In-Person: Can't it's so short that you have to focus on scoring and
Ep 9 eoisode: blocking, or you're gonna fall way behind. It's more about setting up your best score throughout the game. Now the island side it's it's very different.
In-Person: game. Now the island side it's it's very different.
Ep 9 eoisode: You no longer have gold cards that you randomly draw from the top of the deck. Instead, you have eight mission cards face up on the side of the board. Anytime you complete a mission, you place a token on the card. the first one to complete a mission gets more points than everyone else, and they can also still complete the mission, but for less points.
In-Person: You no longer have gold cards that you randomly draw from the top of the deck. Instead you have eight mission cards face up on the side of the board. Anytime you complete a mission you place a token on the card. the first one to complete a mission gets more points than everyone else and they can also still complete the mission but for less points.
Ep 9 eoisode: All the other rules are the same except there are these round tower tokens.
In-Person: All the other rules are the same except they're these round tower tokens placed throughout Iron. Whenever you play a tile adjacent to them, you get a bonus. Might be points, might be an extra tile placement, a times two, which will double the points of a mission card at the end of the game, and so forth. This side is a little bit more strategic than tactical. You can try to better plan out what you want to do instead of just reacting to your goal cards.
Ep 9 eoisode: Placed throughout Ireland. Whenever you play a tile adjacent to them, you get a bonus. Might be points, might be an extra tile placement, a times two, which will double the points of a mission card at the end of the game, and so forth. This side is a little bit more strategic than tactical. You can try to better plan out what you want to do instead of just reacting to your goal cards and tile draws on the Scotland side.
In-Person: And tile draws on the Scotland side.
Ep 9 eoisode: You might focus lot on the round tower tiles to get a lot of bonuses or or map out how you want to complete each mission cards. Now the Ironland side is not much more complex, but there's a few more rules. But there's a a lot more to take in at once as well. You need to really go over the layout of the map
In-Person: you might focus a lot on the round tower tiles to get a lot of bonuses or map out how you want to complete each mission card. Now the Ironman side is not much more complex, but there's a few more rules. But there's lot more to take in at once as well. You need to really go over the layout of the map.
Ep 9 eoisode: and those bonus tiles and fully comprehend the mission cards.
In-Person: And those bonus tiles and fully comprehend the mission cards.
Ep 9 eoisode: You're balancing a lot more in your head. At first, I thought I was gonna like this side more. You're not at the whims of those goal cards. Nope. Nope. Nope. There is no plan. You make the best play with your single tile and then you redraw. Just having those goal cards available doesn't change that you don't.
In-Person: You're balancing a lot more in your head. At first, I thought I was gonna like this side more. You're not at the whims of those goal cards. Nope. Nope. Nope. There is no plan. You make the best play with your single tile and then you redraw. Just having those goal cards available doesn't change that you don't control much of your destiny in this game. So I'll push back here a little.
Ep 9 eoisode: So I'll push back here a little. Having the gold cards out, I will say helps you know where I should start chaining my farms or my engines to score more bundles. If I connect my farms here, connect these round tiles, I can score this card, chain my energy on the edge of the map, I can score this and that card as well. Maybe a little bit, but you're right, not much. But the longer the game went on.
In-Person: out I will say it helps you know where I should start chaining my farms or my engines to score more bundles. If I connect my farms here, connect these round tiles, I can score this part chain my energy on the edge of the map, I can score this and that part as well. Maybe a little bit, but you're right, not much. But the longer the game went on,
Ep 9 eoisode: There was something about the Scotland side that I missed.
In-Person: there was something about the Scotland side that I missed.
Ep 9 eoisode: Ireland side slightly veers from a normal, simple, chunky Kenitsia that we've been talking about throughout this whole episode. It gives you more to think about and to wrap your head around. While some people might like this, I prefer the simple but important decision spaces of a classic Kenitsia.
In-Person: the Ireland side slightly veers from a normal, simple, Kenitzia that we've been talking about throughout this whole episode. It gives you more to think about to wrap your head around. While some people might like this, I prefer the simple but important decision spaces of a classic Kanitzia. if I were to play this again, I I don't think there's any reason not to play Scotland. but even so I don't care if I play this game again. The only thing that's good to say about this is the recycled pieces and the colorful board. The production is top notch. I'll give you that. It's just wasted on a game that is not as good as Hanami Samurai, Ingenious, Gold Country, etcetera.
Ep 9 eoisode: Thing that's good to say about this is the recycled pieces and the colorful board. The production is top-notch, I'll give you that. It's just wasted on a game that is not as good as Hanami Samurai, Ingenious, Gold Country, etc. You're right. And so right
In-Person: So right.
Ep 9 eoisode: now, I mean I enjoyed this game. It's not
In-Person: No.
Ep 9 eoisode: one of his best or anything like that, but it was enjoyable for what it was. I went in with low expectations and came out with a smile on my face. I love how much my kids love this game and how everyone I play this game with seems to enjoy it. So yeah, except you. So again, it's a good game, but for me, it does lack something that makes this one of Kenitzia's greats, like Through the Deserts or Celtus, or Raw. What makes a Kenitsia game a great game is when he balances simplicity with crunch, like in Lost Cities.
In-Person: game with seems to enjoy what's up me yeah it's absolutely so again it's a good game but for me it does lack something that makes this one of Kanditsia's greats like Through the Deserts or Hiltis or Raw. What makes a Kenitsia game a great game is when he balances simplicity with punch like in Lost Cities
Ep 9 eoisode: And all you have to do is play a single card,
In-Person: and all you have to do is play a single card.
Ep 9 eoisode: but you don't want to. And all you want to do is wait and draw one more card. So you have to make this tough decision, choose a card to play. In rebirth, when you play a tile, I'm not agonizing over its placement. There's usually an obvious good spot to place it. In Raw, I want to see if I can draw another tile and push my luck. But at the same time, I know I should just take what's on the board.
In-Person: But you don't want to, and all you want to do is wait and draw one more card. So you have to make this tough decision, choose a card to play. In rebirth, when you play a tile, I'm not agonizing over its placement. There's usually an obvious good spot to place it. In Raw, I'm gonna see if I can draw another tile and push my luck. But at the same time, I know I should just take what's on the board
Ep 9 eoisode: And through the desert,
In-Person: and through the desert.
Ep 9 eoisode: there's so many caravans I want to extend, to block another player, to reach an oasis. And Humani, I'm conflicted. In Hanami, sorry, slash samurai, I'm conflicted on which festival I want to surround, agonizing over which one I should focus on. But it's just placing a tile. For me, Kanitsia still is my heart.
In-Person: There's so many caravans. I want to extend, to block another player, to reach an oasis. And Humani, I'm What the hell is Humani? You mean Hanami? Hanami, sorry, slash Samurai. I'm conflicted. which festival? I want to surround agonizing over which one I should focus on. But it's just facing a tile. For me, Canitsius stills my heart.
Ep 9 eoisode: And reveals how great of a designer he is when he finds that balance of simplicity and crunch. He got close with this one. Close enough that I mean I enjoy it. It's definitely not Celtis, which is Kanitzia at his finest. And it's not Gold Country, which is way better. This doesn't make Rebirth a bad game for me.
In-Person: And reveals how great of a designer he is when he finds that balance of simplicity and crunch. Can you get close with this one? Close enough that I enjoy it. It's definitely not Cultus, which is Mitsia at his finest. And it's not Gold Country, which is way better. This doesn't make Rebirth a bad game. Yes it does. Flash Gordon is bad. Now give me flash and keep the rest. The fact that this game, this game, one Kenner Spiel, is a burden that weighs on my soul. It just goes to show you that these awards are for the game as a whole. That includes teachability, playability, components, production level. If
Ep 9 eoisode: Flash Gordon is bad. Give me flash and keep the rest. The fact that this game, this game, one can or spiel is a burden that weighs on my soul. It just goes to show you that these awards are for the game as a whole. That includes teachability, playability, components, production level.
In-Person: Moon Colony Bloodbath had a better production, would this be a different conversation? I think it's a better game for sure.
Ep 9 eoisode: Would this be a different conversation? I think it's a better game, for sure. I just I I don't how this one kind of spilled at all. And that's a game that definitely needs an
In-Person: I I just I I don't understand how this one can respille. I don't And that's a game that definitely needs
Ep 9 eoisode: upgrade. Moon Colony Bloodbath. And
In-Person: And
Ep 9 eoisode: you're right, I'm shocked that this one Kinnerspil, I think he definitely deserved it with Celtis.
In-Person: one Kinnersville. I think he definitely deserved it but Celtus
Ep 9 eoisode: And I cannot wait for my copy to come in. So did I enjoy it? Yes.
In-Person: So did I enjoy it? Yes.
Ep 9 eoisode: Are there thousand better Kenitzias out there? Hell yes. that's it for table flips this week. Thanks for joining us. Now get out there and play some better games. Bye. Bye.
In-Person: Are there thousand better convincias out there? Hell yes. that's it for tableclips this week. Thanks for joining us. Now get out there and play some better games. Bye. Bye.
