Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Meeples And Wine - Tabletop Games for Couples
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pattern-Building Perfection: Why Blood of an Englishman Shines for Two | 30 août 2026 | 00:38:46 | |
Meeples & Wine Episode 105: Climbing Beanstalks with The Confidence Man Mead & Blood of an Englishman Hey board game couples and podcast fans! Welcome back to another cozy episode of Meeples & Wine, your go-to board game podcast for couples who love reviewing games with a drink in hand. We’re Michael and Suzy, and today we’re pairing a bold Illinois mead with a clever two-player card game that brings the classic Jack and the Beanstalk tale to the table. Grab your glasses and settle in—this one’s perfect for date night board gaming. What Wine (or Mead) Are We Tasting Today?We’re sipping The Confidence Man from Honey Heist Mead Co. in Cobden, Illinois (Shawnee Hills AVA). This Old Fashioned-inspired mead is aged on American oak with cherries, a hint of orange zest, cinnamon, bitters, and sweetened with bourbon barrel-aged maple syrup. Smooth, complex, and a little dangerous—exactly the vibe for a game about facing a giant. Perfect for couples looking for unique mead pairings with board games or podcast listeners hunting for craft beverage recommendations alongside tabletop reviews. What Game Are We Playing?Blood of an Englishman (2016) is a pure two-player, open-information card game designed by Dan Cassar (of Arboretum fame), with art by Chris Ostrowski and published by Minion Games. On BoardGameGeek it sits at a solid 6.5/10 with a light complexity of 1.85/5—ideal for couples who want a quick, tense evening without a huge rules dump. One player is Jack, trying to grow three beanstalks and claim the Bag of Gold, Golden Goose, and Singing Harp. The other is the Giant, maneuvering Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum cards to trap Jack or starve him of the cards he needs. Setup is simple: shuffle the 50-card deck into five face-up Castle Stacks. Jack gets a free “Giantess’ Protection” move, then players alternate. Jack gets three moves per turn to rearrange cards and build ascending beanstalks (six cards + treasure). The Giant gets one powerful action—discard a beanstalk card, shift groups of four cards, or reposition a single card. Win conditions check constantly, so every play feels sharp. No expansions needed. It’s pure asymmetric pattern-building and variable player powers in about 30 minutes. Great for fans of two-player board games, light strategy card games, and fairy-tale themed tabletop experiences. Last CallAnd for our Last Call Kickstarter spotlight: check out Viva La Dungeon! Rise of the Neckromancer—one book, three heroes, a dungeon you explore with choices, dice, and a story that changes every run. Cool solo/coop storytelling for board game podcast fans who love narrative adventures. That’s it from us! If you enjoyed this board game and mead pairing podcast episode, share it with a fellow gaming couple. Reach us anytime at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/LinkedIn, or leave a voicemail at (707) 572-5282. See you next time on Meeples and Wine! Buh-Bye! All URLs mentioned in this episode notes:
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| Is Quacks (The Quacks of Quedlinburg) Worth Playing with Two Players? | 23 juil. 2026 | 00:49:12 | |
Exploring Push-Your-Luck Fun with Quacks and a Crisp California Chardonnay
In this episode of Meeples & Wine, Michael and Suzy dive into one of the most entertaining bag-building games around: Quacks (originally released as The Quacks of Quedlinburg). They pair it with the approachable and delicious Decoy Chardonnay 2024 from Duckhorn Vineyards. The game puts you in the role of quack doctors brewing risky potions by drawing ingredient chips from your personal bag. Push your luck to fill your pot for big points, but watch out — too many cherry bombs and your potion explodes! Michael and Suzy discuss how it plays with two players, share their fun scores, and talk about the clever risk-reward mechanics that make every round exciting. They also review the Decoy Chardonnay 2024, a fruit-forward white with notes of ripe tangerine, mango, pineapple, and a touch of vanilla oak. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing wine that pairs beautifully with the game’s lighthearted chaos. Listen now to hear their full thoughts on gameplay, strategy, and whether this combo is relationship-safe! Links & References:
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| Is Hover: The Cutthroat Hummingbird Game Worth Adding to Your Collection? | 17 mai 2026 | 00:40:27 | |
In this episode of Meeples & Wine, Michael and Suzy review **Hover: A Brutal Game of Hummingbirds**, a fast-paced 2-4 player area movement game full of resource gathering, stealing, attacks, and nest-building. They explain the full rules, including movement, area actions, combat with hidden energy, beauty levels, and the high-stakes courting call to win the game. They also taste the Cherry Kirsche 2024 dessert wine from Von Stiehl Winery and share their thoughts on how it plays with two players, the fun factor, and whether the take-that elements are couple-friendly. A quick, engaging review of an upcoming Kickstarter hummingbird board game launching May 19, 2026. | |||
| Arkham Horror Lovecraft Letter and Cult Cabernet Sauvignon | 18 avr. 2026 | 00:44:04 | |
We’re Michael and Suzy, your hosts dishing out honest board game reviews for couples, blending wine (or in this case, beer) tastings with gameplay breakdowns. Got feedback? Hit us up at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, or connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn. And hey, leave a voicemail at (707) 572-5282 – we love hearing from you! We’re heading to the Midwest Gaming Classic next week outside Tabletop Village. Come say hi! Today we’re tasting the Cult Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 from Cult Vines in Lodi, California. It’s a medium-bodied, easy-drinking Cab with notes of black cherry, raspberry, chocolate, oak, tobacco, and light spice. Smooth and silky with powdery tannins—fruity, lightly spicy, and great for casual sipping. Vivino rating ~3.8–3.9. Pairs beautifully with grilled steak, burgers, lamb, tomato-based pastas, mushroom risotto, eggplant Parmesan, or bold cheeses. The game we’re playing is Arkham Horror: Lovecraft Letter (2025). It’s a super quick push-your-luck deduction card game that re-themes the classic Love Letter system with the madness and monsters of the Arkham Horror universe. Draw, discard, and try to survive Cthulhu-flavored chaos—multiple winners possible. Very light, plays 2–6, BGG ~7.5. We review Batman: Love Letter at episode 29, you can find that HERE! How does it play with two players? Was it fun? Will it wreck the relationship? Time Sink – How long does it take to learn the rules? Final Sip – How has the wine changed since opening? Last Call – If you like the show, share it with a friend! See you next time on Meeples and Wine! Buh-Bye! | |||
| Noxford and Clad & Cordon Cab Sauv | 09 mars 2026 | 00:44:01 | |
We’re Michael and Suzy, your hosts dishing out honest board game reviews for couples, blending wine (or in this case, beer) tastings with gameplay breakdowns. Got feedback? Hit us up at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, or connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn. And hey, leave a voicemail at (707) 572-5282 – we love hearing from you! This time around, we’re tasting the Clad & Cordon Cab Sauv from Clad & Cordon Winery (check them out at https://www.cladandcordon.com/). It’s a bold Cabernet Sauvignon hailing from Creal Springs, IL, near Marion and the Shawnee area. Expect flavors like blackcurrant, black cherry, plum, and cassis, with maybe some green bell pepper or mint vibes, plus oak notes of vanilla, cedar, or tobacco. Illinois’ cooler climate gives it brighter acidity and less ripe fruit than your typical California Cab. Fun fact: We tried their Blueberry wine back in the Hive episode—peep that at https://www.meeplesandwine.fun/hive. Now, onto the game: Noxford (2016), a sneaky little title you can scope out on BoardGameGeek at https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/206448/noxford. It’s all about leading a crime syndicate in a steampunk city that’s always building itself up. You place cards to control rich districts using area majority, hand management, and tile placement mechanics. Designed by Henri Kermarrec (known for stuff like Ekö and Penny Papers Adventures—his BGG page is https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgamedesigner/10777/henri-kermarrec), with art by Maud Chalmel (she did Take Time too, check https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgameartist/83279/maud-chalmel). Published by Capsicum Games and Quick Simple Fun Games, it plays 2-4 people, rates a 6.1/10 on BGG with low complexity (1.77/5). Setup’s straightforward: Each player gets 10 Syndicate cards (Master at rank 4, Lieutenants at 3, etc.), lay your Master face-up, shuffle and draw 3. Neutral deck has Rich Districts and Barracks. Start with two cards in the center, L-shaped. On your turn, either place a card adjacent to at least two others (corners aligned, no overhangs) or cover a lower-rank Syndicate with a higher one. Masters count double for control, and gear icons let you relocate cards. Game ends when the last Syndicate’s played—Barracks flip touching Syndicates, then score districts based on majority (1 VP per symbol +2 bonus for your fave). Ties? Nobody wins that district. Most VPs takes it, or most districts in a tie. It’s simple, spatial, and a bit cutthroat—perfect for a quick session! No expansions for this one. Playing with two? We both gave it a fun score of 6/10—solid but not mind-blowing. On the relationship wrecker scale (couch score 1-5), Michael says 1 (chill), Suzy says 2 (a tad sneaky). Learning curve? Time sink 1—easy, just one or two games to get it, no need for endless YouTube tutorials. Wrapping up with our Last Call, we spotlight cool Kickstarter games! This episode, it’s Botany: Floral Dragons at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/duxsomnium/botany-floral-dragons. Learn how to play via https://youtu.be/N0uncjp38Dc. Shoutout to artist Kin Wald for those awesome illustrations and linocuts—visit https://www.kintheartist.com/ and https://www.kintheartist.com/character-design. Tiers include:
If you dig the show, share it with a friend! Next up: Print & Play games. Catch you next time on Meeples and Wine—buh-bye! | |||
| Book of Dungeon and 93 Octane German Chocolate Cake Cream Ale | 21 févr. 2026 | 00:29:37 | |
Hey folks, it’s Michael here from Meeples & Wine, your go-to podcast for board game reviews for couples, where we dive into fun tabletop adventures with a tasty drink in hand! If you’re into solo board games, fantasy puzzle books, or just chilling with some craft beer pairings, this episode is for you. I’m cracking open a brew and exploring the epic “Book of Dungeon” – think dungeon crawling, monster slaying, and treasure hunting all in one handy book. Perfect for board game enthusiasts looking for easy-to-learn solo games or couple-friendly activities that won’t wreck the vibe. (*BTW, Suzy is out this episode due to health issues, she’ll be back!) We’re Michael and Suzy, your hosts dishing out honest board game reviews for couples, blending wine (or in this case, beer) tastings with gameplay breakdowns. Got feedback? Hit us up at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, or connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn. And hey, leave a voicemail at (707) 572-5282 – we love hearing from you! Now, onto the drink of the day: We’re tasting the Clown Car – German Chocolate Cake from 93 Octane Brewery in Elmhurst, IL. This cream ale with a German Chocolate Cake twist brings all the sweetness, creamy mouthfeel, and hints of chocolate and coconut. Shifting to the main event: What game are we playing? It’s “Book of Dungeon,” the puzzle book “spin-off” from the popular “Bag of Dungeon” board game. Rated 8.3/10 on BoardGameGeek, this solo fantasy adventure is all about drawing your path through 100 deadly dungeons. Slay monsters, dodge traps, and hunt for treasure – all you need is a pencil, dice, and some courage! Designed by Russ Law, Tim Sharville, and Paul Sharville, with art by Tim Sharville, and published by Gunpowder Studios. It’s a drawing game with grid movement mechanics, perfect for solo gamers or couples dipping into quick tabletop sessions. How to play? Roll up your character from 11 fantasy types like elves, wizards, dwarves, ogres, fairies, minotaurs, halflings, and more. Assign stats and a special ability from a simple chart, then dive into the dungeons. Roll dice to lay paths, draw them out, face monsters or traps, grab items, and quest for the Ring before battling the Red Dragon at the exit. Every dungeon is a self-contained puzzle – survive, make brave choices, and escape with your life! No expansions listed yet, but this one’s got replayability for days in the solo board game category. We chat about how it plays with two players (spoiler: it’s mainly solo, but we adapt for couples), our fun scores (on a 1-10 scale – mine’s TBD, Suzy’s too), and the couch score for relationship wrecking potential (1-5, low drama here). Learning the rules? It’s a time sink of 1 – no problem after one or two games, no need for endless YouTube tutorials. Wrapping up with the Final Sip: How’s the wine (er, beer) evolved since opening? And our Last Call: We scout Kickstarter and Gamefound for the coolest upcoming games, like “Fighting Fantasy Quest – The Warlock of Firetop Mountain” from Ulisses Spiele. Board game crowdfunding fans, check these out for more fantasy adventure goodness! If you dig our board game reviews for couples, beer tastings, and solo game spotlights, share the show with a friend. See you next time on Meeples & Wine – Buh-Bye!
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| Bosworth and Freakshow Chardonnay | 25 janv. 2026 | 00:55:50 | |
Here are the show notes for the episode Bosworth and Freakshow Chardonnay from Meeples & Wine—your podcast of board game reviews for couples, with a drink in hand! Hosts: Michael & Suzy Wine We’re Tasting Today:
Game We’re Playing:
Historical nod: Named after the Battle of Bosworth Field — https://www.britannica.com/event/Battle-of-Bosworth-Field How It Plays with Two Players & Our Takes
Expansions? None. Final Sip Last Call – Kickstarter/Gamefound Spotlight Contact Us!
If you enjoyed the show, share it with a friend! See you next time on Meeples & Wine! Buh-bye! 🍷🎲 | |||
| Beer & Bread & Butter | 11 janv. 2026 | 00:50:31 | |
🎙️ Episode 97: Beer & Bread & Butter
Welcome to Meeples & Wine, the podcast of board game reviews for couples, with a drink in hand! I’m Michael and I’m joined by Suzy. Today we are balancing our pallets and our game boards with a “harmonious” pairing. 🍷 The Wine: Bread & Butter California Red BlendWe aren’t overthinking it today! Our pick is the Bread & Butter California Red Blend, a classic everyday red that’s all about relaxed vibes.
This week we’re hitting the fields with Beer & Bread, a multi-use card game designed for exactly two players. The PremiseYou represent rival villages sharing a monastery’s fruitful lands. Over six years (alternating between “fruitful” and “dry”), you’ll harvest resources, brew beer, bake bread, and upgrade your facilities. The “Twist” 🥨Balance is key! At the end of the sixth year, you only score the coins from the category (beer or bread) where you earned the least. If you go all-in on beer and ignore your bread, you’re going to have a bad time. Quick Stats:
What everyday reds are you reaching for this winter? We’d love to hear from you! 27
See you next time on Meeples and Wine! Buh-Bye! | |||
| Gluntz Holiday Glögg and the 2025 Wrap-up! | 15 déc. 2025 | 01:17:38 | |
Hello everyone! We are Michael & Suzy, and welcome to Meeples & Wine—your podcast of board game reviews for couples, always with a drink in hand! Arkham Horror: The Card Game | |||
| Miniature Adventures and 14 Hands Merlot! | 24 nov. 2025 | 00:46:23 | |
Goblins, Dice, and 14 Hands Merlot: Episode 96 Recap
Welcome back to Meeples & Wine! It’s Michael and Suzy here, bringing you another board game review for couples—always with a drink in hand. In this episode, we are diving into a portable RPG adventure and sipping on a wine that pairs perfectly with a backyard cookout. Let’s get into the notes! 🍷 What We’re Drinking: 14 Hands MerlotToday’s bottle comes from 14 Hands Winery, located in the Columbia Valley of Washington state.
We are tackling Miniature Adventures: Adventure 1 – Goblin Troubles. Published by Lowtek Games LLC and designed by Jon Lowman, this is an exciting co-op card game inspired by old-school 16-bit RPGs. The Premise: The Kingdom of Delriah is having some serious goblin issues, and they need an adventuring party to help! You choose a Hero and a class, then work together to overcome four levels of challenges:
How it Plays: It plays 1–4 players and relies on dice rolling mechanisms. You slot your rolled dice into your character card to determine your Initiative (speed), Power, and Actions. You have to survive various Encounters, including Mobs (enemies) and Challenges (perils), to win. 🏆 The ScoresIs it fun? Will it wreck your relationship? Here is our final verdict:
We love checking Kickstarter for the coolest new games. This week we shouted out Maiden of the Dark, a Game Boy game by TigerChainsaw. 📞 Connect with Us!If you liked the show, be sure to share it with a friend!
See you next time on Meeples and Wine! Buh-Bye! | |||
| The Mix and the Mezcalita | 14 nov. 2025 | 00:56:14 | |
Shaking Things Up with 'The Mix' and a Mescalita
Hey, and welcome back to Meeples & Wine! We're Michael and Suzy, and this is your favorite spot for board game reviews for couples, with a drink in hand.
This week, we went fully thematic. We’re reviewing a cocktail-making board game, so naturally, we had to skip the wine and mix up a cocktail!
🍹 This Week's "Wine": The Mescalita
We’re sipping on a Mescalita, and it’s a fantastic smoky, citrusy, and spicy combo. If you want to make one at home while you listen, here’s the recipe!
What You'll Need:
For the Rim: Tajín Clásico Seasoning (or make your own with 2 parts kosher salt and 1 part chili powder).
For the Drink:
Lime wedges (for the rim and garnish)
1.5 oz mild mezcal (we recommend Del Maguey Vida)
2 oz fresh orange juice
1 oz fresh lime juice
Optional Add-ins:
3 dashes of orange bitters (for an extra orange kick)
1 to 3 bar spoons of sweetener (like agave nectar, simple syrup, or orange liqueur)
The notes for this drink suggest pairing it with smoked meats, cheese, chocolate, tropical fruits, or even spicy curries.
🎲 This Week's "Meeples": The Mix
The game on our table this week is The Mix by Ruse Games.
You play as a brand-new recruit at the famous Foxtrot Bar, and your goal is to become the top mixologist. You’ll be honing your skills, learning new recipes, and serving customers to earn the most Victory Points (VP).
It’s a strategic, cocktail-themed game that blends engine building, resource management, and worker placement.
Here are the quick stats:
StatisticDetailsPlayers1-4 (It has a solo mode against an automated "Fox" opponent!)Time25+ minutesAge14+Designer/ArtistGuime (Guillaume Boudreau)PublisherRuse GamesKey MechanicsWorker Placement, Engine Building, Resource Management, Set Collection
How It Plays
The game is all about efficiently using your "Mixologist" workers. On your turn, you take actions like:
Taking a Clients Card (an order you need to fill)
Grabbing ingredients from the supply
Acquiring new Technique Cards to get better at mixing
Getting more Shakers (which expand your capacity)
Preparing Cocktails to complete your orders
The "engine building" part really kicks in during the Setup phase at the end of your round. This is when you get bonuses from your Setup Track, your unique Mixologist Card, and your Technique cards.
The game end is triggered once 15 total Clients have been completed. You tally up your VP from completed orders, set collection bonuses, and remaining money, and the highest score wins!
A quick note: The rulebook we saw was still marked as a "Work in Progress," so some final rules might change.
🚀 Where to Find It
We look for the coolest games coming out on crowdfunding sites, and this one is heading to Gamefound! You can back it HERE!
📣 Last Call
That’s all for this week! What do you think of the Mescalita recipe? Are you planning on backing The Mix? We want to hear from you!
Email Us: meeplesandwine[at]gmail[dot]com
Leave a Voicemail: (707) 572-5282
Find Us on Socials: We're on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
If you loved the show, the best thing you can do is share it with a friend.
See you next time on Meeples and Wine! | |||
| Lovecraftian Mystery & Madness: Is Arkham Horror: The Card Game a Good 2-Player Board Game? | 26 oct. 2025 | 00:51:01 | |
Unraveling the Mythos with Meeples & Wine
Hey board game lovers! Welcome back to Meeples & Wine, your podcast for couples' board game reviews with a drink in hand. We're your hosts, Michael & Suzy, and this episode we're diving deep into a world of Lovecraftian mystery, monsters, and madness!
🍷 What We're Sipping
Today, we're getting cozy with a glass of Witches Brew Mulled Wine from Leelanau Cellars in Northport, Michigan.
The Vibe: It's got those warming holiday spices—think cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Best Served: We enjoyed it warm/hot!
Pairings: We didn't have any specific pairings listed, so let us know what snack you'd pair with this spiced wine!
🎲 The Game of the Episode
We jumped into the horrifying, yet captivating, world of Arkham Horror: The Card Game.
Title: Arkham Horror: The Card Game
The Gist: It's a cooperative Living Card Game where you and your partner take on the roles of Investigators trying to solve a scenario's mystery before the forces of the Mythos overwhelm you. You'll be using Action Points to move, play cards, and test your skills (Willpower, Intellect, Combat, Agility) against a random Chaos Token drawn from the bag. Get those clues, progress the Act deck, and try to survive!
BGG Rating & Weight: It holds an impressive 8.1/10 on BoardGameGeek and is definitely a thinker at a 3.56/5 complexity.
Designers: Nate French and MJ Newman (who also worked on Marvel Champions: TCG and LOTR:TCG).
Awards: This game is well-loved, having won the Dice Tower's Best 2 Player and Best Co-Op Game in 2016, plus several BGG Golden Geek Awards!
Learn More: You can find the game's page on BGG right here: https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/205637/arkham-horror-the-card-game
Expansions: There are TONS of expansions, including scenario boxes, investigator decks, playmats, and more, if you're looking to expand your Arkham experience!
Our Ratings
Fun Score (1-10): We both gave it a super high 9! This is a great co-op experience.
Will it Wreck the Relationship? (Couch Score 1-5): A low-stress 1 from both of us. It's a great game to play with your partner!
🎙️ Last Call
We always take a peek at the latest and greatest coming to crowdfunding, and this week we checked out Joyride: Full Throttle by Rebellion Unplugged.
The Game: This is a high-octane racing game for 2–6 players where you choose your racing line, trade paint on corners, and smash opponents! This new edition includes an expanded team mode, portals, and new cars, items, and maps.
Find it Here: You can check out the campaign on Gamefound: https://gamefound.com/projects/rebellion-unplugged/joyride-full-throttle
BGG Page: Read more about it on BGG: https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/380728/joyride-survival-fastest
👋 Meet-Ups & Contact
See Us In Person! We'll be at Lodge Con on November 1st at the Will County Fairgrounds in Peotone, IL. The halls are open from 10 am - 5 pm, but gaming is open from 8 am till midnight. Stop by and say hi!
Email Us: meeplesandwine@gmail.com
Socials: Find us everywhere—Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn—by searching Meeples & Wine!
Voicemail: Leave us a message or ask a question at (707) 572-5282 or use our Speakpipe link.
If you liked the show, please be sure to share it with a friend!
See you next time on Meeples and Wine! Buh-Bye! | |||
| From Bold Reds to Deep Scares: Tasting Trader Joe’s Dearly Beloved Red Blend & Playing Renegade’s Terror Below! | 17 oct. 2025 | 00:54:23 | |
Michael and Suzy sip Dearly Beloved I Thee Red 2023 and play Terror Below on Meeples & Wine. Race to 20 VP in this 2-5 player board game, dodging worms in the Nevada desert. Rated 6.7/10 on BGG, it’s great for couples. Get wine pairing tips and hear about Dice Throne Vanguard. Connect at meeplesandwine@gmail.com! | |||
| Pixel Tactics and a Mystery Wine! | 06 oct. 2025 | 00:43:24 | |
Meeples & Wine: A Tactical Sip and Battle
Hey there, friends! It’s Michael and Suzy, your hosts of Meeples & Wine, the podcast where we review board games perfect for couples, with a drink in hand to keep things fun. We love hearing from you, so drop us a line at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn, or leave a voicemail at (707) 572-5282 or via our Speakpipe.
Also we'll be at Lodge Con on November 1st! It's at Will County Fairgrounds Atrium710 S. West St., Peotone Illinois!
Let’s dive into this week’s episode!
Sipping Something Special
Today, we’re pouring a delightful wine to set the mood for game night. It’s WATER from the fridge, hailing from our kitchen. We've had quite a few Oktoberfest celebrations in the last few weeks, and for our own health and ability to function we have decided to skip the tasting for this episode. Remember everyone, re-hydrate!
Game Night: Pixel Tactics
This week, we’re playing Pixel Tactics, a head-to-head tactical card game that’s all about outsmarting your partner. You can find it on BoardGameGeek, though sadly, it’s no longer in print from Level 99 Games. Designed by D. Brad Talton, Jr. (the mind behind BattleCON Fighting System) and with art by Fábio Fontes and Maciej Mutwil, this game has a 6.8/10 rating on BGG and a medium-light complexity of 2.62/5. It’s strictly for two players, which makes it perfect for our couples’ game night.
So, what’s Pixel Tactics all about? Picture a pixelated battlefield where you and your opponent each command a 25-card deck. You secretly choose a Leader card to anchor your strategy, and their unique abilities shake up how every other card in your deck works. Each card can be played in three ways: as a Leader to start the match, as a one-time Order for a quick effect, or as a Hero placed in a 3x3 grid around your Leader. Heroes’ powers change depending on their position—Vanguard (front), Flank (sides), or Rear (back)—so placement is everything.
The game plays out in a series of matches, either best-of-3 or best-of-5. Each match has rounds split into three waves (Vanguard, Flank, Rear), where you take turns making moves like drawing cards, recruiting Heroes, attacking, playing Orders, clearing fallen Heroes (aka corpses), or shuffling your grid around. Combat’s a blast, with melee attacks hitting the closest enemy in a column, ranged attacks sniping anyone (unless blocked by a Hero with Intercept), or special attack powers for extra flair. The goal? Take down your opponent’s Leader to claim Trophies. First to two or three Trophies wins the game. Oh, and if you’re losing, you get to draw extra cards in later matches to even the odds—pretty clever!
There are tons of expansions out there, pulling in themes from video games, other board games, and even quirky crossovers. Check out the full list on BoardGameGeek if you’re curious!
How’s It Play for Couples?
So, how did Pixel Tactics hold up on our game night? Michael gave it a 7/10 for fun, Suzy, on the other hand, was all in with a 9/10. As for whether it’ll wreck your relationship, we’re happy to report it’s pretty safe. Michael gave it a 2.5/5 on the couch score, Suzy agreed with a 2/5.
Learning the rules took a bit—let’s call it a 1.5/5 on the time sink scale. It’s not a quick pickup, but once you get the hang of the waves and card roles, it flows smoothly. Expect a full game to run about 30-60 minutes, perfect for a cozy night in.
Wrapping Up
Before we sign off, let’s talk about what’s coming up. We’re super excited about Wizard Community College by David Marron, a cool project we found on Kickstarter. Next week, we’re diving into Terror Below from Renegade Game Studios—check out more details here.
Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or let us know what games and wines you want us to try next! Reach out at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn, or drop a voicemail at (707) 572-5282 or via Speakpipe.
That’s all for now, folks! Keep rolling dice, sipping wine, and enjoying those game nights. See you next time on Meeples & Wine! Buh-Bye! | |||
| Sake-Fueled Samurai Showdown: Sipping TYKU Black While Dueling in Kiri-ai: The Duel | 17 sept. 2025 | 00:43:16 | |
First things first—what's in the glass? We cracked open a bottle of Junmai Ginjo Super-Premium Sake, aka TYKU Black from the TY KU Sake Brewery. Brewed in Japan and bottled in Ewing, NJ (fancy, right?), this bad boy clocks in at 15.5% ABV with a 60% polish ratio—meaning they've shaved down the rice to unlock those silky flavors. We're talking rich texture, hints of natural sweetness, peach, and vanilla on the nose. Over 200 flavor components and higher amino acids make it a killer white wine stand-in.
Pairing-wise? Oh man, it's perfect for full-flavored seafood, marinated proteins, or oven-roasted dishes. We imagined it with some grilled salmon or teriyaki chicken while plotting our next move. Pro tip: If you're feeling adventurous, grab a bottle here on their site and let it breathe a bit. By the end of the episode, that final sip? Still smooth as ever—no harsh changes, just pure elegance. Cheers to that!
The Game: Kiri-ai: The Duel – Clash of the Card-Programming Titans
Now, onto the star of the show: Kiri-ai: The Duel, a super-quick two-player brawler from designer Kamibayashi (with art by Unreliable Wizard) and publisher Mugen Gaming (US distribution via Lucky Duck Games, the folks behind Flamecraft). "Kiri-ai" is a badass compound word—"kiri" for "cut" or "sword," and "ai" for "meeting" or "clash." Basically, it's the poetic way to say "let's throw down."
This one's all about programmed movement and rock-paper-scissors tension. You've got a hand of cards for moves, attacks, and special strikes on a simple battlefield. Each round, you both secretly play two cards face down (the one closest to the battlefield goes first), then reveal and resolve 'em one by one. Advance, retreat, strike high or low—land two damaging hits on your opponent's samurai, and boom, victory. BGG rates it a solid 7.1 with a light 1.42/5 complexity, so it's accessible but sneaky strategic.
Quick Rules Rundown (No Spoilers, Promise)
Components: 16 cards total (2 samurai, 10 actions, 4 specials), plus a battlefield card (standard or advanced side).
Setup: Pick your color (Red or Blue Samurai), slap down the battlefield, deal 5 action cards each, snag a random special attack, and ditch the extra. Start in Heaven stance, three spaces apart.
Play: Program your two cards, reveal 'em. Movement first, then attacks. No passing your foe—if you try, you cozy up in the same space. Specials like Kesa or Counterattack add that "oh snap" factor—one use only, then they're gone.
Endgame: Return your first card to hand, bench the second for the next round. Rinse, repeat. Two damage? You win.
We even chatted about the Don-ten no Kiri-ai expansion variant—flip the battlefield, divvy up all three specials, pick your starting spots and stances. Bonus: Corner your opponent in their back space without dying? Instant win. Check the full deets on Mugen Gaming's site for the nitty-gritty.
For two players? It's chef's kiss intimate—like a chess match with swords. Pure duel energy, no downtime, and that simultaneous reveal had us yelling "What?!" more than once. Fun factor? Let's just say it sparked some laughs (and maybe a little trash talk). Couch-banishing potential? Low—it's quick and fair, unless you're really competitive.
Head over to BoardGameGeek to geek out on ratings and expansions.
Last Call: Eyes on the Horizon
Before we pour one out, our Kickstarter radar pinged on Capybaras vs Pelicans by Disco What—a wild, absurd showdown that's got us hyped. Capybaras chilling in hot springs? Pelicans dive-bombing? Sign. Us. Up. Back it here on Kickstarter and tell us what you think!
That's a wrap, friends—another round of games, drinks, and zero regrets. Hit us up at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, drop a voicemail at (707) 572-5282, or slide into our DMs on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Love the show? Share it with your game-night squad!
See you next time on Meeples & Wine. Buh-bye! 🍶🎲 | |||
| Alien: Fate of the Nostromo and Trader Joe’s Reserve: Vinsobres | 04 sept. 2025 | 00:53:31 | |
Our review of Alien: Fate of the Nostromo shows why this cooperative Ravensburger game is great for date night board gaming. | |||
| Targi and Borsao Selección Blanco | 17 août 2025 | 00:49:28 | |
Borsao Selección Blanco is a delightful blend of Chardonnay and Macabeo grapes. The Chardonnay brings bright, fruity aromas, while the Macabeo provides structure and body. To preserve its vibrant fruit character, the wine is aged briefly, fermenting in French oak barrels.
The Macabeo grape, also known as Viura, is a versatile white wine grape found on both sides of the Pyrenees in Spain and France. Its flavor profile is quite dynamic; when harvested early and aged in stainless steel, it can be fresh, floral, and aromatic. However, when harvested later and aged in oak, it develops a more weighty, honeyed, and nutty character. This makes it a great wine to accompany your appetizer or pair with fish like hake or monkfish. (In case you're wondering the image below is a monkfish...)
Tonight's game is Targi, a highly-rated 2-player board game with a BGG rating of 7.6/10 and a complexity weight of 2.34/5. Designed by Andreas Steiger and illustrated by Taira Akitsu and Franz Vohwinkel, this game is published by KOSMOS.
In Targi, you take on the role of a leader of a Tuareg tribe. Unlike other cultures, the Tuareg men, known as Targi, cover their faces while the women do not. As a tribal leader, you'll trade goods like dates, salt, and pepper to earn gold and other benefits, all while trying to expand your tribe.
The game is played on a 5x5 grid, with 16 action spaces along the border and nine blank spaces in the center. Players take turns placing their meeples on the border spaces (avoiding corners and spaces directly across from an opponent's meeple). Once all meeples are placed, you collect cards from the central grid that correspond to your meeple's row and column. You can also carry out the actions on the border spaces.
We also have our eye on a cool game on Kickstarter: Camp Grizzly Second Edition by Trick or Treat Studios. After being out of print for over 10 years, this horror survival board game for 1-6 players is back. You play as camp counselors stalked by a maniac named Otis the Bear. To win, you must collect objectives to trigger one of four Finales. The game is filled with Easter eggs and lore, promising 80's horror moments through the whole game. | |||
| Dice Throne: Pyromancer vs Shadow Thief and Borne of Fire Cabernet Sauvignon! | 03 août 2025 | 00:51:11 | |
So you're looking for best 2 player board games for couples? Have you come to the right place! Join Michael and Suzy as they delve into finding games that you and your sweetie can play without winding up in counselling over a dice roll, and along with this, you get a review of a new bottle of wine (or other drink) every episode!
This week we're in our 4th dive of the popular Dice Throne series, with Pyromancer vs Shadow Thief! Play either the fireball chucking Pyromancer or the poison-tipped dagger wielding Shadow Thief using your skills and cards to win! From Roxley games, the Dice Throne series has been going for two seasons, with multiple 1v1 boxes out there to try from, so definitely check them out!
For our wine this week we're tasting a dark, smoky, Cabernet Sauvignon called Borne of Fire. From the Colombia valley of California this woodsy, tannin heavy cab has us kind of split on opinion!
Our last call this week from Backerkit, is SHIVER Corporate: A Corporate Horror Comedy TTRPG, where thinking your workday is a living hell is completely possible! | |||
| Radlands and The Culprit Red Blend | 16 juil. 2025 | 00:45:07 | |
Welcome to Meeples and Wine! Your podcast of board game reviews for couples, with a drink in hand!
This week we're playing Radlands by Roxley Games, a two-player only card game that pits you and your opponent as rival gangs in a post-apocalyptic world! Drawing from the same deck, you'll defend your three camps with people ranging from the super accurate sniper to the lowly punk (though, remember, PUNKS ARE PEOPLE TOO!) Find synergies and combos to do damage and eventually destroy your opponent's camps, while launching your raiders to do direct attacks! You can find Radlands at Roxley's page HERE. (We don't get any commissions, just helping you find it easy!)
We're sipping on The Culprit red blend! "The Culprit" is a fruit-forward wine with intense aromas of ripe raspberries and toasty vanilla oak. It offers rich flavors of blackberry jam and dark chocolate, framed by a velvety texture, with a long, lingering, and smooth finish.
For our Last Call, we're discussing "The Pawn's Gambit" a chess card game on Gamefound right now! The Pawn's Gambit is a chess-inspired card game for up to 6 players, blending strategy and tactical duels. Players aim to checkmate rivals or be the last with a surviving king using three card types: Opening Cards, which set unique strategies with medieval characters; Piece Cards, reflecting classic chess pieces; and Imbalance Cards, depicting warfare scenarios that shift game conditions. Win by securing two rounds or outlasting opponents in a chaotic, strategic showdown. You can get notified when it launches HERE! If you love the art, as we did, you can find their Instagram HERE. | |||
| Hive and Clad & Cordon’s Cordon Blue(berry wine!) | 07 juil. 2025 | 00:40:08 | |
Welcome to Meeples & Wine, your podcast of board game reviews for couples, with a drink in hand!
In today's episode, we're tasting Clad & Cordon Vineyard's Cordon Blue, a blueberry wine from Creal Springs, Illinois. It has a sweet and fruity profile with ripe blueberry notes. This blueberry wine pairs well with creamy desserts, various cheeses, light salads, sandwiches, and even certain meats like chicken or fish.
We're playing Hive, an abstract board game where the goal is to trap your opponent's Queen Bee. It's a two-player game designed and illustrated by John Yianni, and published by Gen42 Games. Each player has 11 insect pieces, including a Queen Bee, Spiders, Beetles, Grasshoppers, and Ants, each with unique movement rules. The game is played without a board, and pieces must remain connected in a "hive". We also discuss expansions like the Ladybug, Mosquito, and Pillbug, which add new movement abilities and strategic options to the game.
For our "Last Call" segment, we looked at "Trenchcoat Raccoons" on Gamefound, a fast, rules-light tabletop RPG about chaotic heists and cartoon logic. Players control raccoons in a stack, pretending to be a human in a trenchcoat. Next week, we'll be reviewing Radlands by Roxley Games, a post-apocalyptic game where punk bands fight to destroy rival tribes' camps.
You can contact us at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn. You can also leave us a voicemail at (707) 572-5282. If you like the show, be sure to share it with a friend!
See you next time on Meeples and Wine! Buh-Bye! | |||
| Genius Square and Massbach Ridge Winery Daffodil | 28 juin 2025 | 00:35:51 | |
This week we're celebrating our anniversary by going to the Galena Uncorked wine festival! We've come back with the two player game "Genius Square" and are trying Massbach Ridge Winery's Daffodil sweet white!
For the Last Call we're going to Kickstarter to take a look at Even Deeper Regrets: An Unfortunate Fishing Game Expansion, where you can pledge at here! | |||
| Azul Duel and Anticiclone Tinto Red Blend | 11 juin 2025 | 00:51:38 | |
This week we play Azul Duel by Michael Kiesling, a two-player only version of the classic Azul, with art by Maëva da Silva! We also taste Anticiclone Tinto Red Blend, that we picked up from Costco, a nice Portuguese blend of Aragonez and Castelao.
For our Last Call we have a game with only a week left on Kickstarter, Murder on the Rocks. This Clue/Werewolf social deduction game keeps players in the game even after they have been murdered!
We have three Conniption Gin canvas bags to give away! (see image above!) Thanks to Paul out at the distillery! Just give us a call at (707) 572-5282 and answer this question!
What was the first and last tabletop RPG that Suzy played? Hints are: It was in 1996, it's a fantasy/sci-fi setting and she played a Dwarf Mechanic.
The first three correct answers get the bags! Leave us a way to get in touch!
Oh, and here's that video that Suzy was thinking about!
https://youtu.be/CG7SyxaXGwU | |||
| Bunny Boom and the French 75 mimosa with Conniption American Dry Gin! | 21 avr. 2025 | 00:45:29 | |
This episode Michael and Suzy spend their Easter afternoon playing Ruse Game's recent release Bunny Boom, fresh out of their crowdfunding on Gamefound! Your quiet village is being overrun by hordes of soft and cuddly rabbits and you work to push as many as you can to your opponent's board! Lay your cards down on the board to build the village, matching suits to close out the space so no more cards can be played, or don't match suits to play that card that may win you the game, but you'll get more bunnies as a penalty! Force your opponent to take the carrot, which adds more bunnies, and you can use the burrow and the fox to add even more buns! The one with the least bunnies wins!
We also taste a traditional Easter brunch cocktail, the mimosa, but with a twist! From Coffee and Champaign, it's the French 75 Mimosa. With a dash of lemon juice and citrus simple syrup, along with gin this is a delicious alternative to your standard sparkling wine and orange juice. We used Conniption American Dry gin with this one, after tasting it at the local store (Thanks Paul!) it's citrus rind and spicy nose complemented the drink nicely!
The Final Call for the week is Cleaning Service - Print and Play! | |||
| Sea Salt and Paper with Sea Glass Sauvignon Blanc | 03 mars 2025 | 00:36:25 | |
This week we play PandaSaraus Game's "Sea Salt & Paper" a nice relaxed set making game with some fantastic aquatic origami images with Sea Glass Winery's Central Coast Sauvignon Blanc. Lately we've been playing some serious "take that" games like Smash Up, we take a 180 turn with Sea Salt & Paper, where you gather shells, octupi and other sea life to gather points to win. But be careful, if your opponent thinks they've got more points they can declare "Last Chance" and put all their (and your) points on the line!
We're tasting Sea Glass winery's Central Coast Sauvignon Blanc, a California white that keeps a citrus nose with a pear flavor, but keeps the bright acidity that New Zealand wines are known for.
Remember that if you want to get in touch, just give us a call at (707) 572-5282! | |||
| Smash Up! and the Whiskey Smash Cocktail | 17 févr. 2025 | 00:43:54 | |
Welcome to episode 80! This time around we're playing the deck-drafting game Smash Up! by Alderac Entertainment Group. This 2-4 player game pits all the teams that you've wanted to see fighting against each other to lay claim to bases to score 15 victory points to win. Have you ever wanted to play Zombie Truckers, Kung-Fu Sheep, or Robot 70's Vigilantes? All possible in Smash Up!
This episode we're also not tasting a wine, but a cocktail, the Whiskey Smash (see the connection?) This simple cocktail with only a few ingredients, whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup and mint. It's easy to make and has a nice sweet/sour flavor that goes well with just chilling out and playing your favorite game.
The Kickstarter last call is the Fallen London RPG based off the long running online text-based game of the same name. Venture into the world of Fallen London, which now sits at the bottom of a miles deep chasm, where demons and monsters dwell.
We also have an actual voicemail line now! Call us at 707-572-5282 and leave us a message! | |||
| Casting Shadows and Two Brothers Barrel-Aged Barley Wine | 29 janv. 2025 | 00:41:48 | |
Welcome to Meeples and Wine! Your podcast of board game reviews for couples with a drink in hand! This week we're playing Casting Shadows from Unstable Games, maker of Unstable Unicorns and Happy Little Dinosaurs (you can find our review of that HERE!) We also have a sip of Two Brother's Cellar Club 2018 Barrel-Aged Barley Wine!
For this week's Last Call we look at two games on the Kickstarter horizon, first is Lewd Dungeon Adventures: A Date to the Grand Ball an "RPG Dating Sim" for...two or more, your mileage may vary. We also eyeball Granfondo, a cycling/racing game where you manage a team of three, one sprinter, one climber and one long distance cyclist, you mange the draft lines, determine when they're going to make a break for it, and...dope up and hope you don't get caught?!
Also we are going to be at the Midwest Gaming Classic again this year hosting the Tabletop Stage! The MGC has been expanding more and more into tabletop and board games, which is great! If you're going to be in the Milwaukee area on the weekend of the 4-6th, head to their Get Involved page HERE and submit an idea! Be sure to mention us and the Tabletop Stage! | |||
| Summoner Wars and Ménage à Trois – Northern Seduction Red Blend | 15 janv. 2025 | 00:58:43 | |
Happy New Year and welcome to 2025! For our first show of the year we taste Ménage à Trois - Northern Seduction Red Blend, and play Summoner Wars! This hearty red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah has some intense tobacco and leather notes on the nose with a solid dark cherry flavor, some tartness and a mild tannin at the end. We also talk about our play-through of the Vanguard vs Fallen Kingdom in Summoner Wars.
We're also going to be at the Midwest Gaming Classic again this year! You can find more info on this great gaming event at www.midwestgamingclassic.com. They've recently moved into Tabletop and Board Games, Michael and Suzy will be hosting the "Meeples and Wine Tabletop Stage" again this year! If you would like to assist, or if you are a game designer or in the gaming industry go to their Become a Presenter page! | |||
| Squarriors: The Card Game and Curious Beasts Red Blend | 06 déc. 2024 | 00:42:44 | |
Meeples & Wine Episode Recap: Curious Beasts and Squarriors
In this week’s episode, Michael and Suzy dove into the darkly whimsical pairing of the Curious Beasts Red Blend 2021 wine and the post-apocalyptic card game Squarriors. While both offerings boast intriguing packaging, they revealed some challenges beneath the surface.
Wine Highlights:The duo sampled Curious Beasts, a gothic-themed red blend with bold flavors of cherry, plum, and a hint of oak and pepper. Its standout feature? A dramatic bottle design featuring skeletons in festive hats and violins. However, the wine’s origin remains as mysterious as its label; with the winery appearing inactive since 2018. While Michael described it as a great “burger and pizza wine,” the couple agreed its sweeter notes wouldn’t pair well with richer meals like lamb chops. If you’re drawn to eye-catching bottles, this one’s for you—but don’t expect to find it easily.
Game Review: SquarriorsThe episode also explored the card game Squarriors, a mashup of Magic: The Gathering mechanics with a dystopian squirrel-filled universe. Set in a world where animals have gained sentience after humanity’s fall, the game combines deck-building, dice rolling, and tactical combat.
Michael picked this up at a bargain from Half Price Books but discovered it’s an abandoned project, with little online support or updates since its 2017 release. While Suzy admired the stunning card art, the couple found the rules incomplete and gameplay overly complex for newcomers. With no expansions or active fan base, Squarriors remains a niche curiosity for collectors rather than a game-night staple.
Final Thoughts:Michael and Suzy ended the show by reflecting on the eerie parallel between the wine and game: both are visually captivating but haunted by the specter of abandonment. While they enjoyed the experience, these might not be first picks for your next gathering.
Check out the links below for more details:
Learn about Squarriors on its BoardGameGeek page.
Discover the (brief) history of Curious Beasts Wine on wine directory sites.
And don’t miss Michael’s GameFound highlight: Christmas Rolls, a festive roll-and-write game launching soon!
Tune in next week as they sip, strategize, and share more gaming and wine adventures! 🍷🐿️ | |||
| Alice’s Garden and 2023 Protea Dry Rosé | 11 nov. 2024 | 00:54:39 | |
In this episode of "Meeples & Wine," we review the 2023 Protea Dry Rosé from Anthonij Rupert Wyne and the board game Alice’s Garden, and talk of how freaking big a Protea can get (image below!)
We also have a twofer for the Last Call, with Knitting Circle by FLATOUT GAMES and Dice Throne Outcasts + Adventures Unchained which are set to complete on Fri, December 13 2024 and Mon, November 18 2024, respectively. So get on that if you want some great new games! | |||
| Unmatched: Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Casillero del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon | 03 nov. 2024 | 00:49:11 | |
Meeples & Wine: Buffy and the Devil's Cellar!
Welcome back to Meeples & Wine, where Michael and Suzy bring you the latest in board game reviews for couples—alongside a delicious glass of wine! In this episode, we dive into the world of both vampire slaying and Chilean wine. We're tasting Casillero del Diablo's Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its bold cherry and blackcurrant notes with a hint of vanilla, perfect for pairing with grilled meats and mature cheeses. With medium body and marked tannins, this wine unfolds a story as rich as the legend behind its name: "The Devil's Cellar."
On the board game front, we're taking on the supernatural forces of Unmatched: Buffy the Vampire Slayer. With a versatile lineup of beloved characters like Buffy, Spike, Willow, and Angel, players battle it out using unique abilities, whether it’s Buffy's iconic cartwheel kick or Willow's foray into black magic. With a BGG rating of 7.6 and a complexity of 2/5, this action-packed game plays well with two to four players, offering a great mix of strategy and fandom. Will Unmatched: Buffy prove to be a relationship builder or a couch sleeper? Tune in for our “Fun Score” and “Couch Score” ratings to find out!
To wrap things up, we explore the evolution of our wine over time and highlight a new Kickstarter find—an upcoming Discworld RPG by Modiphius. Don’t forget to follow us on social media, drop us a voicemail, or reach out via email at meeplesandwine@gmail.com. And remember, sharing is caring—so pass on Meeples & Wine to a friend! | |||
| The Hunger and Vampire Vineyard’s Cabernet Sauvignon | 15 oct. 2024 | 00:57:50 | |
It's coming up on Halloween and we've got the spooky games and wines for you this episode! We're tasting Vampire Vineyard's Cabernet Sauvignon and playing Richard Garfield's "The Hunger", play as Vampires hunting humans and getting the enchanted rose, but you better be back before sunrise! | |||
| Fire Tower and Toasted Head Chardonnay | 18 sept. 2024 | 00:44:34 | |
In this episode, we review Fire Tower and taste Toasted Head 2022 Chardonnay, along with the Last Call Kickstarter "Wild Imaginary West".
00:00 Welcome to Meeples and Wine00:24 Meet Your Hosts: Michael and Susie00:47 Contacting Meeples and Wine01:02 The Voicemail Debate02:13 Today's Game: Fire Tower02:39 Wine Tasting: Toasted Head Chardonnay08:41 Fire Tower: Game Overview12:04 Fire Tower: Game Mechanics16:42 Fire Tower: Strategy and Gameplay21:04 Fire Tower: Special Cards and Roles22:25 Winning Strategies for Shadow of the Wood22:47 Champion of the Wood: Special Abilities23:34 Fire Tower: Rising Flames Expansion25:23 Playing Fire Tower with Two Players26:11 Balancing Offense and Defense27:51 Fun Score and Relationship Impact29:17 Final Thoughts on Fire Tower32:35 Wild Imaginary West RPG41:06 Meeples and Wine: Where to Find Us | |||
| Apollo and Blueberry Spaceship Box Cider | 28 juil. 2024 | 00:42:39 | |
Greetings! This week Michael and Suzy play Apollo: A Game Inspired by NASA Moon Missions, by Buffalo Games, and also holds our record for the longest game title to date! Choose your role as either the team of Astronauts or Mission Control as you attempt to successfully either orbit the Earth in the Gemini II mission pack or make it to the moon and back in the Apollo! This won't be easy, as every turn you must handle systems breaking down, succeeding in your mission level goals and managing to get some experiments done while floating through the black! You can pick up Apollo at our Amazon Associates link HERE!
We also sample Blueberry Spaceship Box, from Superstition Meadery in Arizona. This dark, sparkling cider is a mix of fresh blueberries and granny smith apples, a dark and tart beverage that goes great with the hot summer sun! | |||
| 3000 Scoundrels and 3 Rein Never Tame Red | 22 juil. 2024 | 00:45:42 | |
This week we review Unexpected Games' 3000 Scoundrels, a futuristic wild-west shootout of bluffing and misdirection! In this game you and up to three more of your friends play rival leaders vying to gather as much of the technology left behind by the mysterious "Traveler" who has just disappeared. Gather your posse together by joining the trait and transparent job cards to create new Scoundrels to hire, will you have a Corrupt Printer, Filthy Dog, or Helpful Banker? Play your poker hand to gain cash, scout the tech loaded safes, and then steal them, but be careful, if you get caught bluffing you'll lose reputation in town!
If you'd like to pick this one up you can follow our Amazon Associates link to 3000 Scoundrels HERE!
(We do get a little cash on this, and you get a great game!)
We also sample Aldi's 3 Rein Red Blend from Colombia Valley, Washington! | |||
| Flock Together and La Vieille Ferme Rosé | 13 juil. 2024 | 00:43:30 | |
Welcome to Meeples and Wine! This week Michael and Suzy play Flock Together from Sea Cow Games, taste La Vieille Ferme Rosé, and test out two new microphones! (Let us know how you think it sounds!) Yes, in this week's game we take on the role of two chickens trying to survive three seasons against the elements and the predators that surround our coop, as Madame Chickovski and Cluckerberry Finn we go claw to toe against such villians as Professor Moleiarty, Chicksune and Cleopoultra!
We also taste La Vieille Ferme Rosé, a fruity light wine for hot days, and attempt a cocktail with it also, with mixed results.
Our Final Call is the Scented Realms Kickstarter, a scent based system to get just a little more depth and immersement to your tabletop games! | |||
| Shadows Amsterdam and The Phillip Marlowe Gimlet | 03 juil. 2024 | 00:40:20 | |
This week Michael and Suzy play Shadows Amsterdam, from Libellud games, an abstract clue giving game where players guide their teams across the map to discover clues, avoid the police, and find their client before their opponents do (or the timer completes!) That's our Amazon Associates link up there, if you use it we will get some cash from it!
Instead of a wine, we taste a mixed drink this week, the Phillip Marlowe Gimlet. This sweet tart drink made of Bombay Gin and Rose's Lime Juice, with roots going back to the 1800s! | |||
| Dark Tomb: Bloodthorn Island and The Supernatural Sauvignon Blanc | 25 juin 2024 | 00:40:30 | |
This week Michael and Suzy play the second game from their Kozz games Kickstarter, Dark Tomb: Bloodthorn Island! It's the follow up to the first game, Crypts of Aurelian. This time around, though, it's got a BOAT! We also taste The Supernatural Sauvignon Blanc, a 100% Sauv Blanc from New Zealand!
Be sure to check out our Kickstarter Last Call, Imperial Borders, HERE! | |||
| Dark Tomb & Chronic Cellars Suite Petite | 15 juin 2024 | 00:43:46 | |
This week we take a look at the first game from our recent Kickstarter purchase from Kozz games, Dark Tomb: Crypts of Aurelian, a "super portable" tabletop game (think Altoid's tin-ish) where 1 to 5 players descend into the tombs to reclaim the Amulet of Fire to save Gorriah! It's got all the cubes you want, and a multiple play-through setup so no two games are the same!
Along with this we're tasting Chronic Cellars Suite Petite, another suggestion from our wine department friends at our local Binny's. It's a Petite Sirah, one of Michael's favorite varietals!
Don't forget to check out this week's final call, Misty Valley from Grumlin Games! | |||
| Shinobi WAT-AAH! and a Yuzu Saki Cocktail | 03 juin 2024 | 00:40:29 | |
Hello and welcome back to everyone! This week Michael and Suzy are tasting a yuzu fruit sake cocktail mixing Zipang Sparkling Sake and Joto Yuzu Sake, a suggestion that we got from Susie and Tim, wine consultant and manager respectively, from our local Binny's Beverage Depot out in Geneva, IL. Spoilers, there was nothing left by the end of the show...also, we are in no way sponsored by Binny's (yet.)
We also play Shinobi Wat-ahh! A hand management/worker placement game from Iello Games out in France! Play an aspiring lord who is vying to take the throne from the aging Emperor of the Moon! Gather allies from the nine clans of the Dragon, Monkey, Crow and more, reinforce the clans with ronin and use the magic of the yokai to ensure victory, but be careful not to become too corrupt as that may spell defeat in the end!
This may be hard to find, since it came out in 2014, but if you may find it in the wild! | |||
| Potion Panic and Three Lakes Winery Blueberry Wine | 14 mai 2024 | 00:37:12 | |
We're back and this week we're reviewing Rocket House Games' Potion Panic a frantic race to become the Alchemist a la Mode by completing potion recipe's components, smashing vials to get more cards in your hand or to deny your opponents those super valuable crystals! Ten crystals gets you the Philosopher's Stone, which wins you the game and grants you powers beyond explanation in the next game (well, there is a card that explains them...). How does Potion Panic rate on our Fun scale? How does is rate on our Couch Score (how likely it is for Michael to wind up sleeping on the couch due to the game?)
We also taste a 100% blueberry wine from Three Lakes Winery in Wisconsin. Made from whole ripe blueberries, this isn't a "blueberry flavored wine beverage" but the real thing! | |||
| Fallout: The Board Game and Do Epic Shit Red Blend | 30 avr. 2024 | 00:46:04 | |
Welcome to another episode of Meeples and Wine! This time we'll be discussing Fallout: The Board Game while drinking Do Epic Shit - 2021 Red Wine Blend from Browne Family Vineyards.
The wine is a full-bodied Paso Robles Red Blend with notes of raspberry, cherry, black pepper, and dark chocolate. It pairs well with bold foods.
Fallout: The Board Game is a post-nuclear adventure board game for one to four players. Players take on the role of survivors in a wasteland and explore, fight enemies, complete quests, and build their skills. The game is won by whoever comes out ahead by venturing through the game and gaining influence. However, if a single faction is empowered too quickly, everyone loses.
The game includes action points, area movement, dice rolling, hand management, modular board, and narrative choice/paragraph mechanics.
The podcast episode also talks about Don’t Starve: The Board Game on Kickstarter and ends with the hosts’ contact information and new trivia night. | |||
| Roborally 2023 and 19 Crimes Martha’s Chard | 03 mars 2024 | 00:39:49 | |
Board Games, Wine Tasting, and Midwest Gaming Classic Adventures
In this episode of Meeples and Wine, hosts Michael and Suzy return after a brief hiatus to share news of their appearance at the Midwest Gaming Classic 2024 in Milwaukee. They reminisce about their past experience at the event, interview highlights, and announce their plans for game demos, reviews, and more on the Meeples and Wine Tabletop stage. Following the event news, they dive into a wine tasting session featuring 19 Crimes Martha's Chard from California, discussing its characteristics, pairing options, and their personal tasting notes. The episode shifts to a detailed review of RoboRally 2023, comparing it with previous editions, discussing its gameplay mechanics, and debating its impact on relationships. Lastly, they introduce an upcoming Kickstarter project, River Valley Glassworks, noting its cute premise and potential gameplay allure.
00:00 Welcome to Meeples and Wine: Midwest Gaming Classic Announcement01:25 Tasting 19 Crimes Martha's Chard: A Wine Review04:54 Diving Into RoboRally 2023: Gameplay and Comparison17:55 Diving Deep into Game Mechanics23:22 Exploring Game Upgrades and Strategy33:57 Wrapping Up with Final Thoughts and Future Plans
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| Arkham Horror: Final Hour and Breakfast Junkie Fruited Berliner Weiss Style Ale | 12 févr. 2024 | 00:35:29 | |
In this episode of Meeples and Wine, Michael dives into board games suitable for single players or those with one-player variants. He reviews Arkham Horror: Final Hour, discussing the strategy, mechanics, and overall gameplay. Michael also samples a blueberry, cinnamon and maple syrup ale from North Carolina's Heist Brewery named 'breakfast junkie,' giving a detailed review of its flavor profile. The show also mentions its sponsor, Manscaped, and provides information on how listeners can connect with the Meeples and Wine team online. Towards the end, Michael shares his findings on Game Found, an alternative to Kickstarter, showcasing a rabbit-themed board game named 'Bunny Boom.'
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Arkham Horror: Final Hour and Breakfast Junkie Fruited Berliner Weiss Style Ale00:13 Introduction and Beer Review04:26 #Sponsor Break: Manscaped Get 20% off and free shipping when you use "MeeplesandWine" at checkout! 06:43 Arkham Horror: Final Hour Game Review18:10 Gameplay Mechanics and Strategies21:26 Personal Experience and Game Review30:08 Exploring New Games and Final Thoughts | |||
| Bread and Butter Chardonnay and The Rocketeer: Fate of the Future! | 04 févr. 2024 | 00:42:06 | |
Title: Reviewing "The Rocketeer" – A Perfect Pairing with A Glass of Chardonnay
Hello everybody and welcome to the world of board games and fine wine, where every roll of the dice pairs perfectly with every sip of a good vintage. Today, we’re going to delve into the world of "The Rocketeer: Fate of the Future" board game while savoring a glass of the 2021 vintage Chardonnay from Bread and Butter Winery.
The Rocketeer: Fate of the Future Board Game Review
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Now, if you're wondering about "The Rocketeer", it is based off a movie (which in turn was based on a comic book) about a guy named Cliff Secord who stumbled upon a jet pack and his life flipped upside down. This game has an enjoyable theme, engaging gameplay and a variety of interesting game mechanics which will keep you hooked.
It is designed by Prospero Hall (also Brian Kirk), who has previously contributed to other iconic games like Back to the Future: Back in Time and Bob Ross: Art of Chill. The game enjoys beautiful art by Henning Ludvigsen that keeps you engaged visually as you steer your way through stealing the plans from the heroes or keeping them safe from the villains before the zeppelin arrives.
Bread and Butter Winery Chardonnay 2021 Review
Let's shift gears and talk about the wine we paired with "The Rocketeer" – the 2021 vintage Chardonnay from Bread and Butter Winery. This Californian beauty with a golden straw hue has a distinctive Chardonnay aroma – a mix of buttery grapes with subtle hints of peaches and apples.
Upon sipping, you would notice a creamy texture with a balance of acidity and an oaky finish that lingers pleasantly in your mouth. However, letting the wine breathe is crucial to truly unlock its flavors. There is a marked richness that is not overly intense, making it perfect for a relaxed evening of board gaming.
The Verdict: Perfect Pairing for a Game Night
In conclusion, "The Rocketeer" is a delightful board game that delivers on 1930's intrigue, tug of war strategy, and beautiful art. Paired with the Bread and Butter's Chardonnay, it makes for an ideal game night with your significant other or a group of friends.
So, why not treat yourself to a new experience? Get your hands on "The Rocketeer" and a good-quality Chardonnay, and dive into an evening of strategic fun and good vibes. With all these ingredients at hand, you're sure to have a memorable night!
0:00 The Rocketeer00:13 Introduction01:29 Wine Review: Bread and Butter 2021
05:04 #Sponsored #ad Spotlight: Manscaped - Use our promo code "MeeplesandWine" for 20% off and free shipping!
20:50 Diving into the Game Mechanics of The Rocketeer: Fate of the Future26:13 Strategies and Challenges29:22 Final Thoughts and Review | |||
| Michael Plays with Himself: Onirim and Two Brothers Cherry Northwind | 25 janv. 2024 | 00:20:15 | |
Solo Game Exploration and Beer Tasting: 'Onirim' and Two Brothers Imperial Stout
Onirim: A Dreamy Solitaire Adventure
Introduction
This week I'm reviewing Onirim, a solo/cooperative card game where you navigate a mysterious labyrinth as a dreamwalker. You must escape before your dream time runs out by finding the eight oneiric doors.
Gameplay
Onirim is a set collection and deck-building game. You have a hand of five cards and must match sets of three to unlock doors. However, there are challenges:
Sun and Moon cards: You can't play a sun next to a moon or the same icon twice in a row.
Key cards: Discarding a key allows you to unlock a door but reduces your chances for others.
Nightmare cards: These force you to discard cards or sacrifice resources to avoid waking from the dream.
Expansions
The second edition comes with seven expansions in the box, adding new mechanics and challenges like manipulating the deck, time bombs, and unreliable allies.
Overall Impressions
I enjoyed Onirim but found it slightly frustrating due to not having resources near the end of the game. I rate it 7.5 out of 10. I picked this one up at Dane's Games in Geneva, IL.
Additional Notes
The episode also features a beer review of Two Brothers Northwind Imperial Cherry and a Kickstarter spotlight on "Dungeon Twist" game.
0:00 Onirim and Two Brothers Cherry Northwind00:13 Introduction and Beer Review05:42 Sponsor Break: Manscaped07:42 Game Review: Onirim16:53 Kickstarter Spotlight and Conclusion | |||
| Tiny Epic Dungeons and Apothic Red Blend | 06 janv. 2024 | 00:45:54 | |
In this episode of 'Meeples and Wine', hosts Michael and Suzy kick off the New Year by reviewing board game 'Tiny Epic Dungeons'. The couple highlight the high replayability, short playtime, and high strategy of the game, despite its challenging learning curve. Michael and Suzy also mention a Kickstarter game they found interesting, 'The Last Lighthouse'. They celebrate the return of their podcast after a hiatus and introduce their new sponsor, Manscaped. The hosts also enjoy Apothic Red wine, describing it as a good everyday wine to have on hand for casual meals like burgers and pizza.
Please give our sponsor a visit at https://www.manscaped.com/ and don't forget to use the code meeplesandwine to get 20% off and free shipping!
0:00 Intros01:26 Apothic Red Blend Tasting05:09 Manscaped Promo10:54 Game Review - Tiny Epic Dungeons29:17 Final Sip - Apothic Red Blend30:24 Last Call - Kickstarter Finds44:05 End of show - Closing
If you'd like to support the show in Value4Value you can do it here! https://getalby.com/p/meeplesandwine | |||
| NaPodPomo 2023: 30 Days of Game Mechanics: Bluffing Games | 27 nov. 2023 | 00:06:33 | |
"Meeples and Wine," where the hosts review board and tabletop games for couples. The host talks about the concept of bluffing games and social deduction games, and then focuses on one specific game called "The Chameleon." The host explains the rules and gameplay of the game and concludes by giving their thoughts on the game. | |||
| NaPodPomo 2023: 30 Days of Game Mechanics: Take That! or Screw Your Neighbor | 22 nov. 2023 | 00:10:22 | |
Based on the provided script, the short summary could be: "In this episode, Michael introduces Meeples and Wine, a podcast where he and his wife review board and tabletop games for couples. He discusses 'Take That' games, which involve players using cards or actions to harm their opponents. Michael mentions popular 'Take That' games such as Munchkin, Flux, Kittens in a Blender, and UNO, explaining their mechanics and unique features." | |||
| NaPodPomo 2023: 30 Days of Game Mechanics: Simultaneous Play | 19 nov. 2023 | 00:07:07 | |
Simultaneous Play Games : Breakdown and Review of Space Team
In this edition of Meeples and Wine: NowPodPomo 2023, hosts Michael and Susie dive deep into the world of simultaneous play board games, highlighting its unique appeal due to its dynamic and interactive nature. The focus is on 'Space Team', a co-op shouting card game where players work together to repair a malfunctioning spaceship. 'Space Team' and its two expansions available on Stellar Factory are scrutinized, with the hosts recommending the Triangulum expansion over the NSFS (Not Safe for Space) expansion.
00:10 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:40 How to Connect with Us01:08 Introduction to NaPodPoMo and Future Plans02:17 Exploring Simultaneous Play02:50 Space Team: A Simultaneous Play Game04:14 Anomalies in Space Team05:55 Space Team Expansions06:52 Conclusion and Future Topics | |||
| NaPodPomo 2023: 30 Days of Game Mechanics: Hidden Movement | 17 nov. 2023 | 00:08:01 | |
Title: Unveiling the Thrill: Hidden Movement Games!
Hey there, fellow gamers! Welcome to Meeples and Wine, NaPodPomo 2023. Before we dive into today's game, let me introduce you to Meeples and Wine! I'm Michael, and together with my wife Suzy, we review board and tabletop games for couples. We see how well they play with just two players, how fun and challenging they are, and yeah, sometimes we even test if they can ruin a marriage (just kidding!). Head over to www.meeplesandwine.fun for game reviews, wine tastings, and more. Plus, you can leave us a voicemail through our SpeakPipe link - we'd love to feature your questions on the show! Alright, let's jump into the awesome world of hidden movement games!
Hidden movement games add a whole new level of excitement to your game nights. You've got one (or all) players who can't see what the others are doing, which kicks up the suspense factor big time. Picture this: you're hunting down an elusive character while they cleverly maneuver through the game board, leaving just enough clues to keep you guessing. It's all about strategy and outsmarting your opponents.
Now, let's talk about some of the standout hidden movement games. First up, we have the classic Scotland Yard. It's been around since the '80s and is still a ton of fun. You and your friends play as detectives from Scotland Yard, going head-to-head with Mr. X, who's roaming the streets of London using taxis, buses, and even the tube. Working together, you'll need to connect the dots, piece together the clues, and track down Mr. X before he slips away.
For those craving a bigger challenge, check out Mister X. This game takes the Scotland Yard gameplay and moves to all of Europe! Instead of limiting the action to London, you get to embark on a thrilling chase across the entire continent. Mr. X has an arsenal of transportation options at his disposal, and it's up to the detectives to coordinate their efforts and catch him in the act. It's one wild ride, let me tell you!
Last but not least, there's Clue: The Great Museum Caper. Imagine being a security guard in an art museum, desperately trying to prevent a crafty thief from pilfering precious artworks. The tension builds as paintings disappear and guards scramble to catch a glimpse of the elusive culprit. It's a unique spin on hidden movement games, adding elements of deduction and observation to keep you on your toes.
So, grab your friends and get ready for a gaming experience like no other with hidden movement games! Scotland Yard, Mr. X, and Clue: The Great Museum Caper are just a taste of the excitement that awaits. Check out our podcast at Meeples and Wine, and remember to play fair, have fun, and may the best detective prevail! Cheers!
That's it for today's game mechanics. Stay tuned for more thrilling adventures in the world of tabletop gaming. Thanks for joining us on Meeples and Wine, Now Pod Pomo 2023. Happy gaming, everyone! | |||