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MN 594 October Turn One01 Oct 202501:05:32

Episode 594: October 2025 Turn One

Episode release date is October 1, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar

Episode 593: September 2025 Turn Two17 Sep 202501:07:24

Episode 593: September 2025 Turn Two

Episode release date is September 17, 2025

Show Notes

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar

Nathan

Doug

 

SaltPod 6 SaltCON Summer Review01 Jul 202500:31:02

SaltPOD 0006, Summer 2025
Release date: June 30, 2025

Welcome gamers! If you are a board gamer, a social gamer, or someone who loves RPGs, SaltCON is a place for you.

Welcome back to SaltPOD, your dedicated deep dive into the vibrant world of SaltCon and the incredible community that makes it tick! If you're new here, SaltPOD is your backstage pass, your insider scoop, your direct line to all things SaltCON. SaltCON – the biggest and best tabletop gaming convention in the Mountain West! We're here to explore the amazing games, the fantastic people, and the unforgettable experiences that make SaltCon a must-attend event year after year. Get ready to level up your excitement!"

This episode we are reviewing all the great things that happened at SaltCON Summer which happened June 6th through the 8th at the Davis Conference Center, in Layton City.

The first Summer event is the smallest of the events that happen at the Davis Conference Center, but that does not mean there is a shortage of events and fun to be had. This was still three days that were packed full of RPG events, Board Game events, Social gaming events, and even a tournament or two to be played in. So sit back and let's dig in. We have a lot to talk about.

Vendor Hall
Some very cool stuff for gaming drinks, games, and gaming accessories.

Hot Games:

Play to Win Games 

  • I played a handful of games from this game on the shelves, there were around 30 games that were there to try out and to get a chance to win them. Even if you just wanted to review the rules and enter to win the game that is an option, but this is a great way to try a game and see if you want to have a chance to win them.

  • https://saltcon.com/summer-play-to-win/

Gaming library

  • A huge game library with over 2500 games to check out and play.

  • Classic games, and new games alike.

There were 278 different events the attendees could sign up for. 
178 Total RPG events.

  • 85 RPG events

  • 26 Pathfinder events

  • 67 Dungeons and Dragons Adventurers League events

    • Pathfinder Society: Salt of the Ocean Multi Table Event

      • In the Eye of Abendego, the storm has receded just enough to reveal two particularly interesting new sites: one is a wrecked Pathfinder ship and the other an ancient island associated with prophesiers and demons. With some help from an old pirate friend, the Pathfinders are kitted up in order to investigate these two new occurrences, however it seems like she wasn't the only pirate with her eyes on these strange new prizes. The Society will have to face the dangers of sea and storm as they sail to their goal, hoping to beat their rivals to the hidden secrets!

  • This event was played with multiple tables running simultaneously, at multiple level tiers. The Pathfinder Society came out victorious!

  • D&D Adventurers League: Hold Back the Dead Multi Table Event

  • The Adventurer's League had some close calls, and not everyone made it out alive this time... but the dead have been vanquished. For now. 

  • Hold Back the Dead is a multi-table Dungeons & Dragons adventure where heroes must defend a stronghold under siege by an overwhelming undead force. As the tide of the dead rises, players work together across tables to uncover the source of the invasion and prevent an ancient evil from breaking through. Designed for epic coordination and tense decisions, it blends horror, heroism, and high-stakes combat in a dynamic battlefield setting.

  • Playtests for new RPG systems were available at SaltCON Summer with the highlights being 

    • Untold RPG and 

    • Nephilim the Forsaken, brought in by local game designers. 

  • SaltCON End of Summer will have a stronger focus on prototype RPG systems and welcomes game developers to join the SaltCON GameMasters Guild on Discord or Facebook to learn more about bringing their systems to the convention.

  • Total sessions run: 175

  • Other popular games included Cyberpunk Red, Shadowdark, Call of Cthulhu, Shadowrun, Vampire the Masquerade, The Electric State, BESM, Nimble 2, Dragonbane, DC20, and many more!

Game Swap

Flea Market
Saturday for 2-hours

Tournaments

Events
Broadway Murder Mystery - Groomed for Murder!

    • This was a big hit and will return for End of Summer with rumor of a second game being added. Grilled to Death

  • Nebula: A 4X inspired Big Group Game

  • Tichu around with Danny

    • We had about half of the attendees learning Tichu for the first time, it was really cool to see them pick up strategies after each hand! There were many surprising outcomes, including many successful and unsuccessful Tichu calls, hands that looked certain, than turned upside down, and many laughs. Everyone that I spoke to that was learning for the first time was excited to get the game, and play some more!

  • Blood on the Clock Tower

    • Nine different event and one how to play event

  • Mini Painting Seminar

    • Saturday 1:30


64 total board game events

Board Game Events

Meeple Nation events

What a way to start the Summer of Gaming.

So what is next?

  • SaltCON End of Summer

    • August 29-31

    • 1000 badges

    • Game library

    • RPG area

      • Tons of RPG events

    • Hot Games

    • No-Ship Math Trade

    • Game swap

      • Open all three days

    • Flea Market

      • Saturday 9-10AM

    • Figure Painting 

      • Saturday 12:30 -3:30PM

    • Vendors

    • Reserved tables

      • Four left

Next Year SaltCON is adding a Sixth Event. One that will have many people very excited. 

SaltCON Cruise August 7-14

Leaving Seattle and cruising up to Alaska and then back to Seattle.

Limited to 100 spots

Gaming Library

Room Block

If you have any questions feel free to email us at MeepleNation@gmail.com. We are always excited to hear about new games and exciting events and great times. And with that we have completed another deep dive into the salty goodness of SaltCon! We hope you're as excited as we are for all the fun and games. Remember, SaltPOD is your ongoing connection to these amazing events. But the board gaming adventure doesn't stop here! If you love in-depth discussions, diverse perspectives, and talking about all things board games, be sure to check out our regular podcast, Meeple Nation! There we have episodes serving up fantastic content week after week. Until next time, keep rolling those dice, and we'll see you at SaltCon!"Thanks for listening. 

 

Meeple Nation 584: A Look At Market Games25 Jun 202501:03:50

isode 584: A Look at Market Games 

Episode release date is June 25, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we in contrast with the open drafting mechanic we discussed the last few episodes, this week we are focusing on games that have and use a market, and how a market game is different from an open drafting game.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

The Market mechanic, in essence, simulates a dynamic economy within a board game. Unlike a simple "take one from a pile" or a closed draft where items circulate, a market presents players with a publicly available pool of goods, actions, or resources. This pool often changes, either by new items being revealed, existing items being bought, or even prices fluctuating.

What makes the Market mechanic so engaging is the tension it creates. Players are constantly evaluating not just what they need, but also what their opponents might be eyeing. With what is currently available in the market. Is it worth paying a premium for that crucial item now, or should you wait and hope a cheaper option appears? Do you play the jerk role and counter draft to deny an opponent a vital resource by taking it yourself, even if it's not your absolute top priority?

Markets can take many forms:

  • Static Markets: Where a set of items is always available, and players choose from it.

  • Dynamic Markets: Prices might change based on supply and demand.

  • Rotating Markets: Items might enter and exit the market over time, creating a flow of new opportunities.

  • "I-Cut-You-Choose" Style Markets: While sometimes a separate mechanic, some games blend this, where one player sets up a market or splits resources, and another player chooses first.

We discussed how open drafting games are very closely related to market games, but ultimately, the Market mechanic adds layers of tactical decision-making, player interaction, and often, an exciting push-your-luck element. 

It's about optimizing your purchases, anticipating others' moves, and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of available options. So next time you're sitting down to play and see a row of tempting cards or a pile of valuable resources, you're likely engaging with the dynamic world of the Market mechanic!


Top Rated Market Games

Games we did not discuss

 

MN 583 Top Rated Open Drafting Games18 Jun 202501:02:11

Episode 583: Top Rated Open Drafting Games

Episode release date is June 18, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are concluding our discussion of open drafting games. This episode we will be picking out games off the top Open Drafting Games, some games we missed and some we don't own.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

In board game mechanics, open drafting is a specific type of drafting where players take turns selecting items (like cards, tiles, dice, or tokens) from a shared, visible pool of options.

To touch on the key points again. Open Drafting and Market games will have a lot of overlap.
Key Characteristics of Open Drafting:

  1. Shared Pool: There's a central display or common area where all the items available for selection are laid out.

  2. Visibility: All players can see all the available options in the pool at all times. This is the defining feature of "open" drafting.

  3. Turn-Based Selection: Players take turns choosing and taking one or more items from this shared pool. Once an item is taken, it's removed from the pool (or sometimes replaced immediately, depending on the game).

  4. Strategic Interaction: Because everyone can see what's available and what others are taking, open drafting encourages a high level of player interaction and strategic depth. Players aren't just thinking about what they need for their own strategy, but also:

    • "Hate Drafting": Taking an item that might not be optimal for you, but is crucial for an opponent's strategy, thereby "denying" them that piece. This can be a friendly jab or a crucial tactical move.

    • Anticipation: Trying to predict what other players will take on their turns based on their visible boards or strategies.

    • Adapting: Adjusting your own plans if a key item you wanted is taken by an opponent.

How it Differs from Other Drafting Types:

The main contrast to open drafting is closed drafting (often called "pick-and-pass" or "hand drafting"):

  • Closed Drafting: Players typically receive a hand of cards (or a set of items) and select one (or more) to keep, then pass the rest of their hand to the next player. 

  • The key difference is that the pool of options available to the next player is unknown until they receive the new hand. Players don't see the full communal pool; they only see their current hand.


Top Rated Open Drafting Games

Games not Mentioned

MN 582 Top Five Open Drafting Games11 Jun 202501:30:13

Episode 582: Our Top-Five Open Drafting Games 

Episode release date is June 11, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are continuing our discussion of open drafting games. This episode we are hitting on our top-five Open Drafting Games

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

In board game mechanics, open drafting is a specific type of drafting where players take turns selecting items (like cards, tiles, dice, or tokens) from a shared, visible pool of options.

To touch on the key points again. Open Drafting and Market games will have a lot of overlap.
Key Characteristics of Open Drafting:

  1. Shared Pool: There's a central display or common area where all the items available for selection are laid out.

  2. Visibility: All players can see all the available options in the pool at all times. This is the defining feature of "open" drafting.

  3. Turn-Based Selection: Players take turns choosing and taking one or more items from this shared pool. Once an item is taken, it's removed from the pool (or sometimes replaced immediately, depending on the game).

  4. Strategic Interaction: Because everyone can see what's available and what others are taking, open drafting encourages a high level of player interaction and strategic depth. Players aren't just thinking about what they need for their own strategy, but also:

    • "Hate Drafting": Taking an item that might not be optimal for you, but is crucial for an opponent's strategy, thereby "denying" them that piece. This can be a friendly jab or a crucial tactical move.

    • Anticipation: Trying to predict what other players will take on their turns based on their visible boards or strategies.

    • Adapting: Adjusting your own plans if a key item you wanted is taken by an opponent.

How it Differs from Other Drafting Types:

The main contrast to open drafting is closed drafting (often called "pick-and-pass" or "hand drafting"):

  • Closed Drafting: Players typically receive a hand of cards (or a set of items) and select one (or more) to keep, then pass the rest of their hand to the next player. 

  • The key difference is that the pool of options available to the next player is unknown until they receive the new hand. Players don't see the full communal pool; they only see their current hand.

Top Five

 

Number Five:

 

Number Four:

 

Number Three:

 

Number Two:

 

Number One:



MN 581 Open Drafting Games04 Jun 202501:10:43

Episode 581: Open Drafting Games 

Episode release date is June 4, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we kick off our discussion of open drafting games. So, we are going to line up a bunch of games and choose some to discuss.

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

  • Nathan

    • Doomlings

  • Douglas

  • Andy

  • David

In board game mechanics, open drafting is a specific type of drafting where players take turns selecting items (like cards, tiles, dice, or tokens) from a shared, visible pool of options.

Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics and how it differs from other drafting types:

Key Characteristics of Open Drafting:

  1. Shared Pool: There's a central display or common area where all the items available for selection are laid out.

  2. Visibility: All players can see all the available options in the pool at all times. This is the defining feature of "open" drafting.

  3. Turn-Based Selection: Players take turns choosing and taking one or more items from this shared pool. Once an item is taken, it's removed from the pool (or sometimes replaced immediately, depending on the game).

  4. Strategic Interaction: Because everyone can see what's available and what others are taking, open drafting encourages a high level of player interaction and strategic depth. Players aren't just thinking about what they need for their own strategy, but also:

    • "Hate Drafting": Taking an item that might not be optimal for you, but is crucial for an opponent's strategy, thereby "denying" them that piece. This can be a friendly jab or a crucial tactical move.

    • Anticipation: Trying to predict what other players will take on their turns based on their visible boards or strategies.

    • Adapting: Adjusting your own plans if a key item you wanted is taken by an opponent.

How it Differs from Other Drafting Types:

The main contrast to open drafting is closed drafting (often called "pick-and-pass" or "hand drafting"):

  • Closed Drafting: Players typically receive a hand of cards (or a set of items) and select one (or more) to keep, then pass the rest of their hand to the next player. The key difference is that the pool of options available to the next player is unknown until they receive the new hand. Players don't see the full communal pool; they only see their current hand.

    • Examples of Closed Drafting: 7 Wonders (the original), Sushi Go!, Blood Rage.

Why Designers Use Open Drafting:

  • Increased Player Interaction: Players are constantly engaged with the overall game state, not just their own limited hand.

  • Tactical Depth: Decisions often involve weighing immediate personal gain against denying opponents.

  • Transparency: All information about available items is public, allowing for more calculated and less luck-driven decisions regarding the draft itself.

  • Emergent Strategy: The way the pool changes based on player choices creates dynamic and evolving strategic opportunities.

 

Open Drafting Games

 

MN 580 May 2025 News Audio28 May 202501:16:26
Episode 580: Meeple Nation May 2025 News - New Games, Announcements, & Crowdfunding!

Release Date: May 28, 2025

Welcome to Episode 580 of Meeple Nation, The World's Okayest Podcast!

This week, Nathan, Douglas, and Dave pull up a chair to the game table to dive into all the exciting news from the board gaming world for May 2025. We're covering a ton of ground, including:

  • New Game Releases: Discover what's just hit the shelves and is ready for your game night!
  • New Game Announcements: Get the scoop on upcoming titles that have the community buzzing.
  • Crowdfunding Games: We'll highlight some intriguing projects currently seeking support on Kickstarter and Gamefound.

In this episode, we chat about:

A huge shout-out to our amazing sponsors, Game Toppers and SaltCON!

Whether you're a veteran gamer or just getting into the hobby, there's something for everyone in this action-packed episode. Join us for your essential dose of board game news and discussion!

Connect with Meeple Nation:

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the show, please subscribe, rate, and review us on your favorite podcast platform!

SCPC - SaltPOD: SaltCON Summer 2025 preview.28 May 202500:25:50

SaltPOD 0005, SaltCON Summer 2025
Release date: May 27, 2025

Welcome gamers! If you are a board gamer, a social gamer, or someone who loves RPGs, SaltCON is a place for you.

Welcome back to SaltPOD, your dedicated deep dive into the vibrant world of SaltCon and the incredible community that makes it tick! If you're new here, SaltPOD is your backstage pass, your insider scoop, your direct line to all things SaltCON. SaltCON – the biggest and best tabletop gaming convention in the Mountain West! We're here to explore the amazing games, the fantastic people, and the unforgettable experiences that make SaltCon a must-attend event year after year. Get ready to level up your excitement!"

This episode we are discussing SaltCON Summer which is happening June 6th through the 8th at the Davis Conference Center, in Layton City.

This event is smaller than the Spring event but still has three action packed days of events, tournaments, open gaming and amazing people.

Vendor Hall
The Gauntlet of vendors and wears and gaming goodies.

 

Hot Games:



Play to Win Games 

  • Friday and Saturday

 

Gaming library

  • A huge game library with over 2500 games to check out and play.

  • Classic games, and new games alike.

 

There were 278 different events the attendees could sign up for.

178 Total RPG events.

  • 85 RPG events

  • 26 Pathfinder events

  • 67 Dungeons and Dragons Adventurers League events

 

Game Swap

Flea Market

  • Saturday for 2-hours

Tournaments

 

Events


64 total board game events

 

Board Game Events

 

Meeple Nation events

 

What a way to start the Summer of Gaming.

So what is next?

  • SaltCON End of Summer

    • August 29-31

    • 1000 badges

    • Game library

    • RPG area

    • Hot Games

    • Game swap

    • Flea Market

    • Miniature painting

    • Vendors

    • Reserved tables

 

If you have any questions feel free to email us at MeepleNation@gmail.com. We are always excited to hear about new games and exciting times. And with that we have completed another deep dive into the salty goodness of SaltCon! We hope you're as excited as we are for all the fun and games. Remember, SaltPOD is your ongoing connection to these amazing events. But the board gaming adventure doesn't stop here! If you love in-depth discussions, diverse perspectives, and talking about all things board games, be sure to check out our other podcast, Meeple Nation! There we have episodes serving up fantastic content week after week. Until next time, keep rolling those dice, and we'll see you at SaltCon!"Thanks for listening. 




MN 579 Narrative Choice or Paragraph Games21 May 202501:04:01

Episode 579: Narrative Choice or Paragraph Games 

Episode release date is May 21, 2025

Show Notes

 

Meeple Nation discusses several games that include the narrative or paragraph game mechanic. Come join us at the game table and find some new and amazing games.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

Narrative Choice and Paragraph Games.

The Narrative Choice or Paragraph Games mechanic puts a strong emphasis on storytelling and player agency through making decisions that directly influence the narrative's progression. Instead of relying solely on traditional game mechanics like dice rolling or resource management to drive the plot, these games present players with textual descriptions, scenarios, and choices that lead to different outcomes and further narrative branches.

Think of it like a "Choose Your Own Adventure" book integrated into a board game experience. Players often read paragraphs of text that describe a situation, and then they are presented with a set of choices. Each choice directs them to a different paragraph or section, unfolding the story in a unique way based on their decisions.

Here's how the mechanic typically works:

  1. Narrative Presentation: The game presents story elements through text, often in the form of cards, books, or even app-based interfaces. These descriptions set the scene, introduce characters, and present challenges.

  2. Choice Points: At key moments in the narrative, players are given distinct options on how to proceed. These choices can range from dialogue options and actions to strategic decisions that have narrative consequences.

  3. Branching Narrative: Each choice leads to a different part of the story. This might involve reading a specific paragraph number, drawing a particular card, or triggering a new event within the app. The narrative unfolds non-linearly based on the collective decisions of the players.

  4. Consequences: The choices players make often have consequences that affect the ongoing narrative. This could involve changes in character relationships, the availability of future options, the acquisition of items, or even the overall outcome of the game.

  5. Emergent Storytelling: While the core narrative is pre-written, the combination of player choices leads to a unique emergent story for each playthrough. Different groups of players, or even the same group playing again, will likely experience the narrative in a different sequence and with different outcomes.

Narrative Choice or Paragraph Games




Nathan

  •  

Andy

Douglas

  • Scythe

  • Too Many Bones

  • Tainted Grail

  • Sleeping Gods

  • Sleeping Gods: Distant Skies

  • TIME Stories

  • ISS Vanguard

  • The Witcher: Old World

  • Star Wars: Outer Rim

  • Clank! Legacy

  • Earthborn Rangers

  • My Fathers Work

  • Waste Knights

  • Tamashii



MN 578 Network and Route Building Games We Dont Own14 May 202500:40:01

Episode 578: Network or Route Building Games We Don't Own

Episode release date is May 14, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are at the final connection of our Network or Route building games discussion. All routes are closing in this episode. For those who may have missed it, network or route building games where players are establishing connections between points on the board or map. 

 

For this last episode in this series, we will be looking at the larger list of top rated network or route building games according to BGG. I selected the Network or Route building Mechanic and limited that search to games that are rated with 7 stars or higher, and each of these games must have a minimum of 2000 user ratings.

 

So let's get on board and punch the ticket of this discussion of network building games at the game table.



Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

Top network or route building games

MN 577 Our Top Five Network and Route Building Games07 May 202501:10:29

Episode 577: Our Top Five Network or Route Building Games 

Episode release date is May 7, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are at the middle point of our Network or Route building games discussion. Once again network or route building games mean players are establishing connections between points on the board or map. 

 

For this episode we will be focusing on our top five games that make use of the network or route building.

 

So let's return to the game table and continue the discussion of network building games at the game table.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

Our top five Network or Route building games.

Douglas

Andy

Nathan

 

MN 592 September 2025 Turn One03 Sep 202500:56:23

Episode 592: September 2025 Turn One

Episode release date is September 03, 2025

 

Show Notes

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar

 

MN 576 Network and route building games30 Apr 202500:57:35

Episode 576: Network or Route Building Games
Episode release date is April 30, 2025

Show Notes

This week we kick off our discussion of games that involve network building. The "network building mechanic" refers to the gameplay element where players construct and expand interconnected systems, often representing transportation, communication, and resource distribution. It's about establishing links and leveraging those connections for strategic advantage.

Some of the main concepts of network and route building include:

Connectivity:
The fundamental element of establishing links between nodes, such as locations, cities, or points of interest. These links from a network.

Expansion:
Players progressively expand their network, reaching new destinations and making further connections. Expansion is often tied to resource management, technology advancement, or through fulfilling objectives.

Strategic advantage:
A well-developed network provides: efficient resource movement, faster travel or delivery, control over locations, increased scoring opportunities, and influence over other game elements.

Player interdependence:
Networks can create interdependence between players, either through competition for resources and routes or through cooperative efforts.

Come join us at the game table where we are going to talk about networking games, and I bet it includes more than train games.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

Network or Route Building Games

 

Games not Mentioned

Douglas

Andy

Nathan

SCPC 0004: Ways to Buy and Sell Games at SaltCON25 Apr 202500:25:59

It is time for the SaltCON SideCast.

Episode 4. This week the hosts of Meeple Nation talk about the four ways to buy, sell, and trade games during SaltCON Spring, Summer, and End of Summer Events. There are four organized options, the no ship math trade, the virtural flea market, the game swap, and the in person flea market.

Come join us at the game table as we discuss and come join us at the next SaltCON event, SaltCON summer this June from the 6th through the 8th.

MN 575 April 2025 News23 Apr 202501:23:58

Episode 575: Meeple Nation April 2025 News 

 

Show Notes 

 

Episode release date is April 23, 2025

 

This week we are talking about new games, new game announcements, new game releases and we also just had our HUGG-A-Meeple gathering. We may even manage to get to some crowdfunding games too. 

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Okayest Podcast.



Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights

 

New Game Releases

 

 

New Game Announcements

 

Crowdfunding Games















MN 574 Movement Point Games16 Apr 202501:10:47

Episode 574: Games that use movement points

Episode release date is April 2, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are doing a one episode discussion of games that use movement points as a movement. What are movement points you ask? Well, movement points regulate how far a player can move their pieces during the game.

For example, players are given a specific number of "points" that can be spent to move game pieces. Different spaces or terrains on the game board may cost varying amounts of movement points to enter. Players may receive a set number of movement points each turn that can be spread across multiple pieces. Those points could fluctuate depending on card draws or dice rolls.

 

Sometimes movement points can be part of a larger pool of actions, and movement can be part of or one of those actions.

 

In short, movement points provide a structured way to manage in game movement while adding a tactical element to gameplay.

 

So let's make it a point to move to the game table and discuss some games.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast



Meeple Nation Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

Games that use movement points

Nathan

Andy

Douglas

 

Telanislyon

  • Carnegie has some interesting management choices in activating departments to move workers around for various economic functions.

    • Carnegie is definitely a good game, I think it's tough to outcompete some of the newer ones though. It was a popular blip for a sec, then kinda floated down to the lower mid of bgg pack. It's still a good game, solid 7.

  • Maracaibo would also have a choice of action to move your ship a certain distance also for triggering spaces. Not sure if that's totally true movement points, but fairly close

  • The only other ones I can even think of would be troop movement for war games, like War of the Ring/for Arrakis or Axis & Allies.

    • War of the Ring is awesome! Great 2p strategy game.

    • War for Arrakis, same designer, basically the truncated version of War of the Ring in Dune!



Top games that use movement points

 

MN 573 Games with Multi-Use Cards We Don't Own09 Apr 202500:52:19

Episode 573: Games with Multi-Use cards we don't own- Show Notes 

Episode release date is April 2, 2025

 

This week wraps up our look at games featuring Multi-Use cards, focusing on highly-rated titles we haven't yet added to our collection. As a reminder, Multi-Use cards offer strategic depth by allowing a single card to serve multiple purposes. These purposes can include acting as text-based abilities, resources, life counters, or even determining player order, as well as many other options. 

Come join us at the game table as we discover games with multi-use cards that we do not own.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

Cory

  • I would say that my favorite multi-use card game is the old Decipher Star Wars CCG. How your deck of cards was used as resources and life was a mechanic I really liked. I wish there were other games that used a similar mechanic. Too bad this game is long and gone.

Telanislyon

  • Blast from the past! Good game. I actually heard they were still running tournaments for this game. I also think the entire set is available for print online somewhere for free.

  • I haven't played Disney Lorcana, but I thought the layout looked very similar to SWCCG.

Sopdebop

  • On the subject of multi use cards, I'd like to nominate SETI. Cards have 4 definite uses and can also be exchanged for other resources (free action, scan, tuck and card effect). I think that's impressive. 

  • I also really like the cards in windmill valley. The assistant cards can be used for ongoing game bonus OR end game bonus. There is always one initial assistant left over which doubles as the queen's contract on the reverse too, which is neat imo.

 

Castle Combo Clarification

  • Cory pointed out something I had missed when I taught Castle Combo.

  • You can spend a key to wipe the current row of cards.




Top Multi-Use Card Games

 

MN 572 Part Two, or Something Like That02 Apr 202501:03:19

Episode 572: Part two? or something like that.

Episode release date is April 2, 2025

 

This week we are creating a filler bonus episode because Nathan pushed out two episodes last week and we still wanted something to release today, because we want to make sure you all have something to enjoy today.

Come join us at the game table as we decide together what we are going to talk about today.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Media Highlights (Highlight-Thirty) Movies, TV, Books, Work or Other Hobbies

Nathan

  • Video Setup (Meeple Nation Patrons Thank You!)

  • Daredevil (Disney+)

  • Umbrella Academy (Netflix)

  • The "Bobiverse" series by Dennis E. Taylor (We Are Bob)

  • Jumanji 

  • Atomic Habits by James Clear

  • Before Happiness by Shawn Achor

  • The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor

  • The Seven Principles for Making a Marriage Work by John Gottman

  • Big Bang Theory

  • Stuart Fails to Save the Universe (Big Bang Theory Spinoff Show)

  • Neverwinter Nights

  • Gaming Goals

  • Andromeda's Edge

  • Arcs

  • Ticket to Ride Legacy: Legends of the West 

  • Flash Point: Legacy of Flame

  • G.I. JOE: Operation Cobra:

  • Wizard of Paws

  • Spring coming Yard work is coming!!

Andy

Douglas

 

MN 571 Games with Multi-Use Cards26 Mar 202500:56:09

Episode 571: Games with Multi-Use cards - Show Notes Andy

Episode release date is March 19, 2025

 

This week we kick off our discussion of games with Multi-Use cards. A fascinating mechanic that adds layers of strategic depth and decision-making, and one we love very much. 

Instead of a card having only one specific function, multi-use cards can be used in different ways, offering players choices about how to best utilize them. This could involve:

  • Playing the card for its stated effect: 

  • Using the card as a resource: 

  • Using the card for set collection or scoring: 

  • Using the card to build something: 

Why Use Multi-Use Cards?

  • Increased Strategic Depth: 

  • Reduced Luck Factor: 

  • Greater Replayability:

  • Thematic Immersion:

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast



Meeple Nation Highlights

 

Games that use Multi-Use Cards

 

  1. Gloomhaven

  2. Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion

  3. Frosthaven

  4. Jump Drive

  5. The City

  6. San Juan

  7. Race for the Galaxy

  8. Bohnanza

  9. Marvel Champions

  10. Castle Combo

  11. Expeditions

  12. Mage Knight: The Board Game

  13. Mage Knight: Ultimate Edition

  14. Star Trek: Frontiers

  15. Evenfall

  16. Isle of Trains: All Aboard

MN 572 Our Top-Five Multi-Use Card Games26 Mar 202500:55:34

Episode 572: Our Top-Five Games with Multi-Use cards - Show Notes 

Episode release date is March 26, 2025

 

This week we dig into our discussion of games with Multi-Use cards by hitting our top five. Just to recap, the Multi-Use cards game mechanic adds layers of strategic depth and decision-making. Something that we all love in a game. 

Come join us at the game table as we reveal our top five games with multi-use cards.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

Our top five pick

Andy

  1. Pirates of Maracaibo 

  2. Revive

  3. Maracaibo

  4. Apiary

  5. Comet

Douglas

  1. Etherfields 

  2. Arkham Horror The Card Game

  3. Endless Winter Paleoamericans 

  4. Revive 

  5. Lost Ruins of Arnak 

Nathan

  1. Hadrian's Wall

  2. The White Castle

  3. Pirates of Maracaibo

  4. 7 Wonders Duel

  5. The Quest for El Dorado

  6. Dead Cells: The Rouge-Lite Board Game

 

MN 570 March 2025 News & SaltCON Spring Review19 Mar 202501:19:05

Episode 570: Meeple Nation March 2025 News - Show Notes 

Episode release date is March 19, 2025

 

This week is all about SaltCON Spring!
We managed to sprinkle a little news in there to boot. 

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Okayest Podcast.



Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights SaltCON Spring

 

New Game Releases

 

 

New Game Announcements

 

Crowdfunding Games

 

MN 569 Games with Card Play Conflict Resolution12 Mar 202500:51:27

Episode 569: Games with Card Play Conflict Resolution 
Episode release date is March 12, 2025

 

Show Notes 

 

This week we are doing a single episode discussing games with card play conflict resolution. Card play conflict resolution is a versatile mechanic that can add depth, strategy, and thematic flavor to board games. It allows for player agency and decision-making in situations that might otherwise be left to chance.

Card play conflict resolution in board games means that instead of using dice rolls or other randomizers to determine the outcome of a conflict, players use cards from their hand or a shared deck to influence or directly decide the result.

  1. Conflict arises: 

  2. Card selection: 

  3. Reveal and resolve

Why use card play for conflict resolution?

  • Reduced randomness

  • Strategic depth

  • Thematic connection

  • Variety and replayability

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights 

 

Top games with modular boards

 

Games on the list that we did not get too.

MN Podcast 591 August 2025 Turn Two20 Aug 202501:04:09

Episode 591: August 2025 Turn Two

Episode release date is August 20, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we kick off our new format.

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

New Game Radar

 

MN Episode 568: Games with Modular Boards.05 Mar 202500:50:18

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 568 - Games with Modular Boards that we don't own

Show Notes 

Episode release date is March 5, 2025

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 568: Games with Modular Boards.

This week we end our discussion of games with modular boards by hitting on some that we do not own and dip into why that may be. Will we be adding any of these to our game shelves? Let's find out.  

Come join us at the game table.

Sponsorship

Intro of Meeple Nation

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights 

Top games with modular boards

Gloomhaven
Twilight Imperium: Fourth Edition
Spirit Island
Gaia Project
Eclipse: Second Dawn of the Galaxy
7 Wonders Duel
Mage Knight: Ultimate Edition
Nemesis
Frosthaven
Arkham Horror: The Card Game
Mage Knight: The Board Game
Food Chain Magnate
Oathsworn: Into the Deepwood
The Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle-earth
Mansions of Madness: Second Edition
Age of Innovation
Clans of Caledonia
Star Wars: Imperial Assault
Mechs vs Minions
Clank!: Catacombs
Five Tribes: The Djinns of Naqala
Eclipse: New Dawn of the Galaxy
Inis
Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon
Dwellings of Eldervale
Keyflower
The Quest for El Dorado
Voidfall
The Lord of the Rings: Journeys in Middle-Earth
Twilight Imperium: Third Edition
The 7th Continent
Everdell: The Complete Collection
Yokohama
Clank! In! Space!: A Deck-Building Game
Forbidden Stars
Parks
Targi
Undaunted: Normandy
Istanbul
Viscounts of the West Kingdom
Xia: Legends of a Drift System
Star Wars: Outer Rim
Memoir '44
Descent Journeys in the Dark (Second Edition)
Ora et Labora
Commands and Colors: Ancients
Clash of Cultures: Monumental Edition
Under Falling Skies
Flamme Rouge
Vindication
Hallertau
Endless Winter: Paleoamericans
Oath
Marvel United
Cryptid

 

MN 567 Top Five Games with Modular Boards26 Feb 202500:39:00

Meeple Nation Podcast: 567 Top Five Games with Modular Boards

This week is all about modular boards. This board goes here, this board goes there...no, wait...what?

Come join us at the game table.

MN 566 Games with Modular Boards19 Feb 202500:50:11

Episode 566: Games with Modular Boards - Show Notes 

Episode release date is February 19, 2025

This week we kick off our discussion of games with Modular Boards. A fascinating mechanic that adds layers of strategic depth and decision-making, and one we love very much. 

A modular board in a board game is a game board that is made up of multiple pieces or tiles that can be arranged in different ways. These pieces can be rearranged before the game starts, or even during the game itself, to create a different board layout each time you play.  

Modular boards usually consist of smaller sections or tiles that can be connected in various ways. These might be hexes, squares or tiles of cards of any shape. 

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

Intro of Meeple Nation

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights SaltCON Spring

Games that use Multi-Use Cards

Nathan's Games

Doug's Games

Andy's Games

Extras 

 

MN 565 February 2025 News12 Feb 202501:08:17

Meeple Nation Podcast: 565 February 2025 News

This week is all about BryceCON! We managed to sprinkle a little news in there to boot. 

Come join us at the game table.

MN 564: Income Games We Don't Own05 Feb 202500:48:36

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 564: Income Games We Don't Own.

We close out our section on income games talking about some great income games that are missing from our collections, and Andy gets to talks about his games too.

Join us at the game table

The SaltCON Podcast 001: What is SaltCON?03 Feb 202500:21:09

SaltCON Podcast Episode 001: What is SaltCON?

SaltCON is Utah's largest Board Game Convention which has events 5 times each year. But, it is more than just board games. There are RPG events, Social Gaming, Puzzle Hunts, Game Shows and so much more.

Come Join us at the table as we discuss all things SaltCON.

MN 563 Our Top Five Income Games29 Jan 202500:47:41

Meeple Nation Podcast: 563 Our Top Five Income Games

We could all use a little more income...Am I right? These are the games that make the income magic happen!

Come join us at the game table.

MN 562 Income Games22 Jan 202500:44:59

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 562: Income Games.

We are kicking off our discussion of income games, we waffle on our ideas and definition of what make a game an income game, but we have some fun discussing them.

Come join us at the game table.

MN 561 What We're Looking for in 202508 Jan 202500:54:42

Meeple Nation Podcast: 561 What We're Looking for in 2025

It's a new year full of new games! This week we talk about what were looking forward to most in 2025.

Come join us at the game table.

MN 560 January 2025 News02 Jan 202501:17:54

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 560 - January 2025 News

A new year and it is time for the first news episode of the year. Looking forward to new games, games that are coming soon, and awesome games on crowdfunding. 

Come join us at the game table.

MN 590 August 2025 News13 Aug 202501:05:37

Episode 590: Meeple Nation August 2025 News 

 

Show Notes 

 

Episode release date is August 13, 2025

 

It is time again for our news episode. We will be talking about some gaming highlights, new games, new game announcements, and we may even manage to get to some crowdfunding games too. 

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Okayest Podcast.

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights

  • Andy

    • Kids

  • Nathan

    • Life Update

  • Douglas

    • Hawaii

 

This episode as with all of our news episodes is broken into three sections. New Game releases: games that can now be found in the wild, new game acquisitions, and games we are eager to try. Game announcements: This is a list of games that are fulfilling maybe and have not yet reached the store shelves, unless it is a CMON game then it is on the game shelf and backers are waiting disgruntled. New game announcements also include games that are in late production and will be released at a future time. Crowdfunding is games that have piqued our interest and maybe have even been backed by us. So with that, let's turn to the table and see what games we are talking about today.





MN 559 Top 10 Games of 202430 Dec 202401:17:08

Meeple Nation Podcast: 559 Top 10 Games of 2024

What kind of year was 2024 for games? We thought it was pretty great! Let us know what your favorites were at meeplenation@gmail.com.

Come join us at the game table. 

MN 558 Top 30 Games of All-Time Part 318 Dec 202401:45:11

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 558 - Top Thirty Games of All-Time... At Least for Now.

Here it is, our top 10 games of all-time. We have some more crossover, but mostly we have a list of some amazing games.

Come join us at the game table.

MN 557 Top 30 Games of All Time (20 - 11)11 Dec 202401:35:08

Meeple Nation Podcast: 557 Top 30 Games of All Time (20 - 11)

This week we continue our countdown of the the best games EVER!! According to us...for now!

Come join us at the game table. 

MN 556 Top 30 Games of All-Time?04 Dec 202401:18:30

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 556 Our Top 30 Games of All-Time.

We went through the games we have played and came up with our top thirty games. This is part 1 of 3 episodes as we go over these great games.

Come join us at the game table.

MN 555 November 2024 News27 Nov 202401:24:20

Meeple Nation Podcast: 555 November 2024

This week we talk mostly about BGGCON, amazing games, and weird flights. There's even a little news mixed in there too.

Come join us at the game table. 

MN 554: Five Games That Need Expansions20 Nov 202401:19:09

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 554 - Five games that need expansions.

This week we discuss some amazing games that we love and we just want to love them some more with some new content.

Come join us at the game table.

MN 554: Five Games That Need Expansions20 Nov 202401:19:09

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 554 - Five games that need expansions.

This week we discuss some amazing games that we love and we just want to love them some more with some new content.

Come join us at the game table.

MN 553 Top Expansions That Made the Base Game Better13 Nov 202401:10:41

Meeple Nation Podcast: 553 Top Expansions That Made the Base Game Better (and improved it!)

This week we discuss the expansions that made the base game better! Are they "essential?" Maybe..!?

Come join us at the game table. 

MN 552 The 2024 Holiday Gift Guide06 Nov 202401:12:35

Meeple Nation Podcast: 552 our 2024 holiday gift guide.

It is that time of year, when we think about giving gifts to those we love. The gamers in our lives, and even those who we want to be gamers. We have something for everyone.

Come join us at the game table. 

MN 551 Spooky Games for Halloween30 Oct 202401:03:00

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 551 - Spooky Games for Halloween

Beware! This weeks episode is rated "S" for Scary! Oh, I've just been informed the "S" stands for Silly. Beware all the same! 

Come join us at the game table.

MN 589 Player Elimination Games30 Jul 202500:56:45

Episode 589: Player Elimination Games

Episode release date is July 30, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are discussing Player Elimination Games. This is not a mechanic we all love, but we have a surprising amount of player elimination games.

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

The Player Elimination mechanic is one where one or more players are removed from the game before it officially ends. This can happen with two players or 16. When a player is eliminated, they typically can no longer take actions, score points, or influence the outcome, and must simply observe the rest of the game unfold.

This mechanic can create tension and urgency, as players try to avoid being eliminated and race to stay in the game. However, it can also lead to long periods of downtime for eliminated players. So lets turn to the game table and see who gets eliminated.

 

Player Elimination Games

MN 550: 2024 October News23 Oct 202401:11:00

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 550: 2024 October News.

New game releasees, new game announcements for Nathan, and some crowd funding for Andy. I bet there is something here for you too.

Come join us at the game table.

MN 549 Why Do You Have So Many Games?16 Oct 202401:05:52

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 549 - Why Do You Have So Many Games?

This week we try to answer questions about why we buy games. Do we come to any solid conclusions along the way? Maybe, maybe not. But the ride is fun anyway!

Come join us at the game table.

MN Bonus Episode Hex Game Showdown15 Oct 202400:28:12

Meeple Nation Podcast: Bonus Episode 15 - Hex Game Showdown.

It is time to join us ringside for another showdown episode. 14 games enter the arena, and only one can be the Meeple Nation number one game. What will it be?

Come join us at the game table.

MN 548 Top Hex Grid Games on BGG09 Oct 202400:38:27

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 548: Top Hex Grid Games on BGG.

We are trying something a bit different. We are looking at the top 50 hex grid games and talk about some that we do not own or have not played yet.

Come join us at the Game Table.

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