Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Staying In Podcast - four pals talk video games, board games, and movies

Peter got a cat and named it after a “food”, as well as slapping plastic on his phone screen to play modern Game Boy games via Playtiles Season 2. Sam became the best dad in the world by playing a lot of Hot Wheels for his son, and wrangling words with The Fridge Game from Big Potato Games. Dan coincidentally also became the best dad in the world by buying himself a game and going back in time to play Halo: Campaign Evolved.

All that, and car cricket, on Ep256.

00:00 - Hemlock and Hot Wheels

10:39 - Halo: Campaign Evolved

26:19 - Playtiles Season 2

41:28 - The Fridge Game

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Are you ready to head to the woods? We hope so, because that’s what we’re off to in this latest episode of our silly little podcast about games and movies and that.

We’re joined by special guest Rob Trounce from Zatu, who tells us all about Strange Games Festival, including an incredible-sounding game of Werewolf in the Dark from Alan Gerding and Andy Patton. There’s also much chat about import darling Create Camp from Sky Huang via Travel-Games and Richard Garfield and Christian Kudahl’s draft battler Final Titan.

Plus we go on a big walk with, uh, Big Walk from House House, and swing about the city with Spider-Man: Brand New Day.

All that, and a pair of well-meaning gifts, on Ep255.

00:00 - New boxers

06:14 - Strange Games Festival

10:36 - Werewolf in the Dark

21:27 - Create Camp

24:57 - Final Titan

29:29 - Big Walk

47:13 - Spider-Man: Brand New Day

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), Sam (@MrSamTurner), and Rob (@ZatuGames).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Surely Big Potato’s most popular game, The Chameleon is the perfect entry for new board gamers, but also for big groups in a more casual, lighthearted setting. While on the other side of the spectrum, Gregg Jewell’s latest, Galdor's Grip, is unlike anything you’ve ever played: it’s an ultra indie solo game of deck manipulation, it’s pay what you want and print and play, and you don’t need a table to run it (which is fine, because we cannot put it down).

The Ticket Booth from Grandpa Beck's Games, picked up at Gen Con, is half an hour of open set collection, hate drafting, annoying your friends, nice little twists on mechanics that keep things fresh, and… cows?

In video game land, Stray Fawn’s Dungeon Clawler is an audiobook/podcast game par excellence, combining the fundamental mechanics of arcade claw machines with the “one more go” and item combination of roguelike dungeon crawling.

All that, and the next big title based on carnival games, on Ep254.

00:00 - Innies and outies

06:52 - The Chameleon

17:38 - Dungeon Clawler

32:22 - Galdor's Grip

46:37 - The Ticket Booth

On this episode were Peter (@XeroXeroXero), Sam (@MrSamTurner), and super special guests Benji (@RebellionUnplugged) and Emily (@OspreyGames).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Nolan’s latest masterpiece is an epic subject of conversation on this episode, in which we ask the big questions. Is it okay to compare the film to the poem/book? Are you really watching the movie if you’re not at an IMAX?

Rattlesnake is an all out slugfest in the Wild West, from Michael Hardacre, Roland MacDonald, and Osprey Games, and it’s the sort of chaos we love. Plus mrdboy brings us MR FARMBOY, a game that looks like an equally pleasant spin on Stardew Valley, but is actually all about automation and building a farming empire.

All that, and rubbing the wrong region, on Ep253.

00:00 - Wee Bobby's nose

02:23 - MR FARMBOY

19:28 - A trip to Edinburgh

23:22 - Rattlesnake

35:32 - The Odyssey

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

If you need cheering up, then Shrinking, an Apple TV series about coming to terms with loss and grief is, surprisingly, a very good choice. Meanwhile Star Trek: Captain's Chair - To Boldly Go is an expandalone deckbuilder from WizKids in which you explore the galaxy, with a friend or solo, in the name of the Federation. And finally, a deep dive into the world of official and knock off Transformers toys.

All that, and the sound of running water, on Ep252.

00:00 - Greek mythology

05:47 - Shrinking and Apple TV

23:17 - Star Trek: Captain's Chair - To Boldly Go

49:01 - Some serious Transformers toys

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Sam (@MrSamTurner), and super special guest Richard (@WereNotWizards).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Take the humour and playfulness of the LEGO games, mix it with the depth and (much of) the gameplay of the Arkham games, all while covering a fascinating mix of The Batman’s history - both fictional and aesthetic - and you’ve got Traveller's Tales’ LEGO Batman: Legacy of The Dark Knight, which we dive into on this episode.

Then we’re looking at Unstoppable, which is bringing solo and co-op play to the tabletop via Renegade Game Studios. Rulebook aside, this is a surprising and very enjoyable deck builder with lovely interactions, compelling upgrades, and a dopamine-firing power curve.

Finally, we’re having the time of our lives with The Boroughs, where everything is not as it seems in New Mexico.

All that, and keeping it camp, on Ep251.

00:00 - Just Vaseline

07:28 - LEGO Batman: Legacy of The Dark Knight

25:39 - An invention a bit like penicillin

31:14 - Unstoppable

50:30 - The Boroughs

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Games, games, and, uh, more games, in our landmark 250th one of these things.

There’s an argument over the best Bond as we take a shot at 007 First Light from IO Interactive, which feels like a young 007 by way of Uncharted and Hitman. While on the smaller screen we’re slinging swords at decks of dastardlies in a mobile classic reinvented: Card Crawl 2 from Tinytouchtales.

Then it’s off out to a trip to UK Games Expo 2026, with lots of chat about the thoughtfully miniaturised Magic Maze Pocket from Sit Down! Games and the community-owned reinvigoration of Netrunner from Null Signal Games. Not enough? Fine. How about our thoughts on latest hotness SHUG from Wandering Games, as well as the completely adorable Mooki Island from Scorpion Masque and Hachette.

All that, and an aniseed flavour, on Ep250.

00:00 - A hospital visit

08:08 - 007 First Light

24:14 - Card Crawl 2

40:51 - Magic Maze Pocket

44:02 - Netrunner

51:35 - SHUG

55:40 - Mooki Island

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Is Mixtape a “real game”? Honestly, who cares; we love this coming-of-age story set in the 90s from Beethoven and Dinosaur, through Annapurna Interactive. It’s quick, it’s robust, and it’s memorable, and that’s what we’re after from narrative-focused experiences like this.

Snackaroo is advanced Snap by way of Aardman, for up to 5 players, and while it’s a children’s game for sure, it’s got enough meat in the bun for the parents of those kids too. It’s from Rudi Biber and Ravensburger, and we really like it.

Plus the wood glue is out for a QoL project to make a complex setup more simple, with the Descent 2nd Edition organiser from The Game Doctors, via Feldherr.

All that, and being famous for five minutes on r/CasualUK, on Ep249.

00:00 - Getting Creami with ninjas

09:47 - Snackaroo

22:00 - Kris's house is famous

25:15 - Mixtape

49:44 - Getting sticky with The Game Doctors on Feldherr

On this episode were Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Hunters in a Scandinavian forest try to track the beast in, well, Beast, a hidden movement board game from Studio Midhall via Zatu, and we think you’re going to love this mighty (and huge) experience when you bring it to your tabletop.

For a more chill time you’ll want to check out This Is a Gardening Show from Zach Galifianakis et al, which is, as you might expect, a gardening show… of sorts. Or for a chilling time there’s Widow’s Bay, a comedy horror that will have you laughing out loud and leaping behind the sofa in equal measure. Plus why we’re revisiting a classic (?) with The King of Queens.

All that, and a 1.3% chance, on Ep248.

00:00 - We've been doing this for over 10 years

16:11 - Beast

27:46 - Widow's Bay

37:16 - This Is a Gardening Show (and The King of Queens)

On this episode were Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

If you’re looking for a great way to train your brain every morning, as well as understand how the devil a classic puzzle - the cryptic crossword - works, then Minute Cryptic should be on your phone.

If that’s too much, but you still want something (surprisingly) cerebral then, yes, The Devil Wears Prada 2 is for you. It’s got a lot to say about the modern world for a film that, superficially, is about fashion.

On the smaller screens, if you’re looking for something completely unique, yet probably a bit of a bargain considering it’s been out a while, we recommend Death Stranding, from Koj and the gang.

All that, and flinging a Razzle, on Ep247.

00:00 - Where babies come from; a message from The Doc

05:12 - Minute Cryptic

16:49 - The Devil Wears Prada 2

40:17 - Death Stranding

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Quick reviews and impressions of geek-adjacent books is the thrust of this one. There’s My First Adventure: Discovering Atlantis, which is a traditional-feeling choose-your-own-adventure book via Hachette, as well as a closer look at Dead Beard's Curse: Smart Book from Peasoup, which uses augmented reality to take “turn to page XX”-type books to another level.

And the book chat goes on: if you love food and curious crime, you’ll gobble up Butter by Asako Yuzuki via 4th Estate.

As is often the case, it’s an episode of other “firsts”, including a first Pokémon and Mario game, and how us as parents can share personal favourites with our kids for the first time.

Finally, there’s Zenith, a game we can’t stop playing. It’s a strategy game from PlayPunk, a 2-4 player lane battler tug of war from the same folks behind Castle Combo.

All that, and on-the-fly-editing of children’s authors, on Ep246.

00:00 - Hayfever and Tartar Sauce

06:54 - Some firsts and sharing things with our kids

19:58 - My First Adventure: Discovering Atlantis

26:37 - Dead Beard's Curse: Smart Book

35:44 - Butter

46:47 - Zenith

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

On the tabletop we’re building up the walls with dexterity and memory game Castel Boom from Kiwizou by way of Hachette, and building up a case with MicroMacro Kids: Crazy City Park from Hard Boiled Games, also via Hachette. Away from the board games and into the realm of RPGs, we’re meeting up online with strangers and playing roleplaying game oneshots with StartPlaying (and the brilliant La Lionne Cosplay). After that it’s off to Germany - via Denmark - and building LEGO’s spin on Neuschwanstein Castle, plus we relax with a new season of a classic TV show; yep, we’re getting back into Scrubs.

All that, and lawns, on Ep245.

00:00 - Two green bins.

06:57 - Castel Boom

19:54 - A naughty trip to the petrol station

23:04 - MicroMacro Kids: Crazy City Park

35:42 - “And many more”

37:35 - LEGO’s Neuschwanstein Castle

42:09 - StartPlaying with Anya (aka La Lionne Cosplay)

49:23 - Scrubs

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

A Staying In exclusive? Yep! We’re among the first people in the UK to play Red Notice - Le Million ou la Prison, which is a game about risking what you can on what you think you can get away with, themed on the game of cat and mouse found in works like Catch Me If You Can. It’s a stonker; you heard it here first.

Of course there’s loads of other things to talk about coming out of AireCon 2026. We start getting very close to each other (and strangers) with Yubibo’s novel Twister-with-fingers from Jelly Jelly, and building (pleasingly broken) engines in Thief's Market, PickPocket’s fresh lick of paint on a previously released title. There’s also Jason Tremblay’s Tacta, which is a light and delightful little treat of a game, and Ellie Dix, Maria Surducan, and Osprey’s Threaded: A Game of Needles and Points, which is so completely charming we can’t stop thinking about it, even when it’s gone midnight and security is about to throw you out the convention.

With that many board games, we change things up and round things out with a movie: the sci-fi book adaptation with Ryan Gosling that’s currently doing the business at the box office.

All that, and putting down a towel, on Ep244.

00:00 - AireCon 2026

13:21 - Yubibo

18:20 - Thief's Market

25:22 - Tacta

29:25 - Threaded: A Game of Needles and Points

32:23 - Red Notice - Le Million ou la Prison

47:06 - Project Hail Mary

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

We’re getting old, so the only kind of exciting rave we’re interested in on a weekday is Arcade Archives Rave Racer from Bandai Namco, by way of Hamster Corp - a game previously trapped in the arcades of the 90s, re-released for home consoles. Then we talk about another throwback, this time to a kind of genre that was massively popular a few years ago, that is getting a new spin: the flip and draw Flip Pick Towers from Osprey, Rob Fisher, Adam Porter, and Beatrix Papp. We round out the show with an unbelievably hot new boardgame called Eternal Decks from Hiroken and Mujunsha, which is a co-op experience with limited (but not zero) communication.

All that, and revisiting the tuna bus, on Ep243.

00:00 - Things on lamp posts

07:57 - Arcade Archives Rave Racer

29:27 - Eternal Decks

45:50 - Flip Pick Towers

On this episode were Peter (@XeroXeroXero) and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

It’s time to dredge up some painful memories of mid-tier Tom Clancy games with Predator: Badlands, then it’s onto cheerier topics, like a discussion on Marvel’s latest short run TV series Wonder Man and whether it might be the start of a new era for the MCU. Having already properly dated the show with a recent “holiday” we turn to Game Dev Story from Kairosoft, a fairly casual but very revealing management game, then it’s off to the Jazz Age with Gatsby from Catch Up Games via Hachette.

All that, and an incorrect use of butter, on Ep242.

00:00 - A Triple Whammy

06:42 - Game Dev Story

17:17 - Predator: Badlands

30:16 - Gatsby

41:56 - Wonder Man

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

It’s time to get a grip on mobile gaming, so we go hands-on with MCON from Ohsnap, a dedicated MagSafe controller attachment for your phone that’s perfect for Android and iPhone gaming, as well as emulation and game streaming. We also throw down with the latest from Big Potato Games, the old-timey-charity-donation-by-way-of-marbles-em-up, Whirly Derby. And then there’s Duel for Cardia from Hans im Glück, a lovely and super affordable simultaneous action card game that takes up no room at all - except for in our hearts.

All that, and the many forms of baths, on Ep241.

00:00 - To be fair, he does eat lasagna

06:47 - Whirly Derby

21:08 - MCON

44:53 - Duel for Cardia

On this episode were Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

We take a (one-eyed?) look at two weird (outsider art?) horror-adjacent video games from Critical Reflex on this episode, Mouthwashing from Wrong Organ and Arctic Eggs from The Water Museum, cockydoody, abmarnie, and Cameron Ginex. Then on the AAA side of the scale is the ridiculously slick open world assassin adventure Ghost of Yōtei from Sucker Punch. Meanwhile, on a more family-friendly board game theme, we think about how best to introduce board game mechanics to much younger minds while reviewing Minecraft Builder & Biomes Junior from Ravensburger.

All that, and confessing to a terrible lie, on Ep240.

00:00 - Elevenerife

04:57 - Minecraft Builder & Biomes Junior

23:02 - Arctic Eggs

32:05 - Mouthwashing

43:17 - Ghost of Yōtei

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

We take a deeper look at two extraordinary MachineGames titles, the adventure straight from the silver screen Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Wolfenstein: The New Order, which features simply some of the best writing in video games.

We also turn to two puzzle platformers, the classic time-bending of Number None’s Braid, and the co-op joy of LEGO Voyagers from Light Brick Studio, the only game that feels like playing with plastic bricks.

Over on the tabletop there’s a good amount of time spent on the bright and punchy Tag Team from Le Scorpion Masqué and I-cut-you-choose cosy set collection of Agent Avenue by NerdLab.

All that, and trending shakers, on Ep239.

00:00 - Amsterdam's best kept secret

07:56 - Braid

11:01 - Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

16:00 - Wolfenstein: The New Order

30:14 - Agent Avenue

40:33 - Tag Team

48:16 - LEGO Voyagers

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

As we head into 2026, we take a look back at our favourite things from 2025.

00:00 - Auld Lang Syne

02:20 - The Murderbot Diaries

13:50 - Andor, Season 2

20:21 - Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy

21:19 - Department Q

25:18 - Common Side Effects

28:39 - Last One Laughing

32:16 - Wavelength App

33:47 - Weapons

34:09 - Slay the Spire

34:31 - Hell or High Rollers

35:55 - Einstein on the Beach

36:59 - skate.

37:09 - Drops of God

37:54 - Blue Prince

42:28 - The Roottrees are Dead

45:21 - Civilization

47:49 - Daybreak

55:13 - Gibberers

56:40 - Strike

All that, and a Happy New Year, on Ep238.

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Our Christmas episode is here, so get your nog on. And why not open an entry in a very special fantasy miniatures advent calendar slash tabletop game from Oakbound Studio - Once Upon A Time In The Woods. And when we’re not unwrapping gifts, we’re talking about Ecuador, 2001, and the grip of football with despelote from Julián Cordero, Sebastian Valbuena, and Panic, and the surreal, delicate, thoughtful adventure that is A Pizza Delivery from Eric Osuna and Dolores Entertainment.

All that, and it’s all downhill from here, on Ep237.

00:00 - 40th birthdays

10:38 - Pete’s Present

14:53 - despelote

28:58 - Kris’ Present

32:16 - A Pizza Delivery

40:54 - Dan’s Present

44:50 - Once Upon A Time In The Woods: Adventure Calendar

59:10 - Sam’s Present

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

After 15 long years of waiting, Skate 4 is here in the guise of Full Circle’s skate. and there are things about it we have to get out in the open. Equally long cooking in the oven is a love of wrasslin’ so of course we were going to chat about the documentary (?) WWE: Unreal at some point. And finally, there’s Gwent: The Legendary Card Game from CD Projekt and No Loading Games, which brings the digital game found in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt into the real world (wooden tables and all).

All that, and trawling through the C section, on Ep236.

00:00 - “Bit early, isn't it?”

04:41 - skate.

26:12 - Gwent: The Legendary Card Game

42:12 - WWE: Unreal

1:06:13 - Secret Santa: The Requestening

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

It’s been board games Christmas of late with this year’s Essen Spiel having just concluded, PLUS we’re joined by friend of the show and board games industry bigwig Rob Trounce, so we use this as a wonderful excuse to talk about lots and lots of board games.

In particular? Well, there’s Tax the Rich by Alion, which is a trick-taking game with politics at its core, as well as Night Soil by Grail Games which has… well… quite a different theme. And then there’s Joyride: Survival of the Fastest from Rebellion Unplugged, a racing game of driving fast and dirty.

Away from the cardboard and plastic, we also get time to talk Japanese mystery Strange Pictures by Uketsu, plus more chilling tingles with The Séance of Blake Manor from Spooky Doorway and Raw Fury.

All that, and being asked if we’re really sure, on Ep235.

00:00 - Going to the Barbers

04:55 - Essen Spiel 2025

12:57 - Tax the Rich

15:41 - Night Soil

22:56 - Strange Pictures

30:19 - Joyride: Survival of the Fastest

47:00 - The Séance of Blake Manor

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Sam (@MrSamTurner), and our super special guest Rob Trounce of Zatu Games.

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Coming in at the top of our newly-invented genre - mobile games to play while standing in a queue - is CMYK’s Wavelength, a perfectly-pitched adaptation of the tabletop game of the same name. If that weren’t enough, Cuh-Muh-Yuh-Kuh is also putting out Magical Athlete, a game with a solid pedigree, given a fresh lick of 80s illustrated school book paint, by way of a living legend of board games. But that’s not all the cardboard we have for you, oh no! We take a look at Wonderbow’s asymmetric game of hiding, chasing, and bluffing: Kelp - Shark vs. Octopus. And with scary season on its way, we thought it time to give our thoughts on the divisive Alien: Earth.

All that, and shooting meatballs, on Ep234.

00:00 - A lovely weekend

03:12 - Helping Tucci find Italy

06:08 - Wavelength

17:29 - Magical Athlete

32:57 - Alien: Earth

50:05 - Kelp - Shark vs. Octopus

On this episode were Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Prepare thy brow, because it is about to be situated much higher than usual (when listening to this podcast at least).

While it might not be from THAT game company, Sword of the Sea from Giant Squid continues its genetic lineage and - dare we say it? - improves upon its legacy in a multitude of ways. On the tabletop, Ravensburger’s latest spin on the modern board game classic is Horrified: Dungeons & Dragons and, yeah, it’s very VERY good. Plus a charming change of pace with some dinosaur pet pals, via the child-friendly BalaDino from Kiwizou.

All that, and controversial (???) feelings about pumpkin spiced lattes, on Ep233.

00:00 - Underwhelming paintings

06:00 - Sword of the Sea

20:08 - Horrified: Dungeons & Dragons

39:36 - BalaDino

48:24 - Our Listener Question this episode is from Neil, who asks: what films are the chaps?

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Feeling old? You might do after this episode. A classic old Nintendo series has had a big new twist, and it’s got us asking “is Mario Kart World made for us?”, plus heading back to the nineties with Humongous Entertainment and Mega Cat Studios and the re-release of Backyard Baseball '97. In case that weren’t enough old video games, there’s more action from Hamster’s Arcade Archives series, with a look at Namco’s Air Combat 22 and Aqua Jet. Away from the screens, over to the tabletop, and headed back in time to mythological Greece, Cyclades Legendary Edition from Open Sesame Games is another classic by Bruno Cathala and Ludovic Maublanc that’s been given a loving restoration. Tired? Do what one of us has done, and treat your poor old back to a Herman Miller Mirra 2 Butterfly office chair.

All that, and a dolphin in need, on Ep232.

00:00 - Lying to children is fine

08:24 - Mario Kart World

19:18 - Arcade Archives 2 Air Combat 22 and Arcade Archives 2 Aqua Jet

32:56 - the Herman Miller Mirra 2 Butterfly office chair

43:28 - Cyclades Legendary Edition

58:48 - Backyard Baseball '97

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about, our Steam Curator page collects every video game we’ve ever reviewed available on the platform, and our BoardGameGeek page does the same for every boardgame. And if you’d like to see what we’re up to between podcasts, your best bet is our Instagram page.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

It’s all about games, games, games (and apples) on this episode. There’s a review of Jungo by Cocktail Games and thoughts on Agatha Christie's Death on the Cards from Modiphius, both of which got lots of outings in the most appropriate space for them: while on holiday. If you’re after a bit of virtual tourism and/or you reckon yourself handy with a DSLR then Matt Newell and Annapurna Interactive’s Lushfoil Photography Sim is very much for you, and if you want to live another life entirely (well, lots of lives, actually) then you’ll want to give Time Flies from Playables and Panic a go too. And after all that relaxation, you might need to get on with some work, in which case may we recommend you Focus Friend by Hank Green and Honey B Games.

All that, and glass grenades, on Ep231.

00:00 - Apple updates

05:48 - Holiday games

10:56 - Agatha Christie's Death on the Cards and Jungo

17:26 - Time Flies

27:23 - Lushfoil Photography Sim

50:05 - Focus Friend

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Peter (@XeroXeroXero).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

In the running for the best film of the year is Weapons from Zach Cregger and co., providing truly unsettling horror without the typically gorey schlock. Maybe not podium material, but Marvel’s latest Fantastic Four flick First Steps is feeling like a return to form, plus lovely words about the lovely Ultimatch from Fireside Games, and OK Play from Big Potato Games forces us to consider a brand new award genre.

All that, and ensuring there’s an “O” in the spelling, on Ep230.

00:00 - Recycling Barry

03:42 - Listener Question (thanks Damien!)

14:25 - The Silmarillion of Cider (Cider Country by James Crowden, fact fans)

18:09 - Weapons

38:38 - OK Play and carabiner games

42:20 - Ultimatch

46:44 - The Fantastic Four: First Steps

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero) and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Baby, I compare you to a kiss from a rose on the grey. Plus a barrel-thumping good Nintendo game, a stupendous release from Hamster Corporation, and Osprey’s brilliant Day of the Dead-inspired competitive card-placement game.

All that, and saluting the flag, on Ep229.

00:00 - A weather report and holidays with Seal(s)

10:13 - Donkey Kong Bananza

22:40 - Arcade Archives 2: Ridge Racer

42:11 - Ofrenda

56:53 - Alternate uses for inventions

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Peter (@XeroXeroXero) and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Straight out of Japan - specifically Hobby Japan - comes Gibberers: The Word Game of Language Invention and Civilization Development, and it’s probably one of our favourite games? Like… ever. On the big screen we’re watching a man leap a building in a single bound, as well as a lot more, in the new Superman movie from James Gunn, and on a smaller screen we’re watching something King of the Hill fans will want to check out: Adult Swim’s Common Side Effects.

All that, and the man from Del Monte, on Ep228.

00:00 - Pea Year Zero

06:58 - Gibberers: The Word Game of Language Invention and Civilization Development

21:37 - Superman

43:35 - Common Side Effects

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero) and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

On the anniversary year of The Chinese Room’s BAFTA-winning Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture, Kris sits down with creative visionary Dan Pinchbeck to talk about this ground-breaking walking sim.

In an interview that covers a multitude of topics - full timecodes below - the two talk about the power of agency in games relating to character development, how the team was forced to include a feature that became their biggest regret, the sheer emotional force of Jessica Curry’s music, and much more.

As you might expect, this interview contains major spoilers for Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture, with minor spoilers also for Horizon Zero Dawn.

03:19 - Pushing the walking sim genre

14:30 - A butterfly’s life

18:05 - A very complicated spreadsheet

24:29 - Running the whole thing as a TV shoot

33:03 - The 1980s

35:00 - Secular sacred

42:00 - Favourite places

On this episode were Dan Pinchbeck (@danpinchbeck and danpinchbeck.co.uk) and Kris (@DigitalStrider).Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

We start the episode off with a Summer tradition, and - in a somewhat similar vein - we talk Hot Streak from CMYK. And we get all starry-eyed for Galileo Galilei from Capstone Games, plus take a walk through Kamurochō with SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s Judgment.

All that, and a strawberry sandwich, on Ep227.

00:00 - It's hot hot hot

10:17 - Judgment

27:11 - Hot Streak

42:24 - Galileo Galilei

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero) and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Tom Cruise and co are back for another unlikely operation in Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning and we, of course, have opinions. Over on the tablecloth, we’re letting The Sandcastles of Burgundy from Ravensburger wash over us, “enabling” others with Kinfire Delve from Incredible Dream Studios, and all the lovely stuff we got up to and saw at the biggest board game event in Blighty: UK Games Expo. Plus a smidge, just a smidge, of this little new device from some plucky upstarts at a company called “Nintendo”.

All that, and an inspiring new desk, on Ep226.

00:00 - Stand Up

03:46 - UKGE

09:27 - Kinfire Delve

23:43 - A cure for snoring

30:06 - The Sandcastles of Burgundy

46:20 - Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning

01:05:25 - The Nintendo Switch 2

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider) and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Thousands and thousands (and thousands) of pages later, we’re ready to share thoughts on Kodansha’s wine and food manga The Drops of God. Over on the tabletop, we take a deep look at The Fellowship of the Ring: Trick-Taking Game from Office Dog Games, which effortlessly captures the spirit of The Lord of the Rings. Plus the only review you need of Libellud’s Harmonies.

All that, and remembering to take care, on Ep225.

00:00 - Meeting famous people

09:04 - The Drops of God

26:36 - A new segment: Staying In life hacks!

29:45 - The Fellowship of the Ring: Trick-Taking Game

45:23 - Harmonies

On this episode were Kris (@DigitalStrider) and Peter (@XeroXeroXero).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Don’t be a chicken; give our latest a listen. There’s a return to form for the MCU with Marvel’s Thunderbolts*, the lush board game adaptation of the video game which is a card game in Contention Games’ Slay the Spire: The Board Game, and the calming influence of Very Very LITTLE Studio’s Hidden Cats 3: Steampunk.

All that, and delicate editing, on Ep224.

00:00 - Chicken? Kentucky Fried, Chicken?

04:37 - Thunderbolts*

25:02 - Hidden Cats 3: Steampunk

33:38 - Slay the Spire: The Board Game

53:43 - Blue Prince, again

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero) and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Let’s get fancy, shall we? First there’s talk of a lovely trip to Egypt (and talk of the less lovely “Pharaoh’s Revenge”), plus the supremely shmancy Nintendo Switch 2. Then it’s off to a murder mystery in the White House with thoughts on Netflix’s The Residence. Keeping within high society we’re rubbing shoulders with Dogubomb’s Blue Prince, and then it’s back to the more sandy landscapes for CMON’s Dune: War for Arrakis.

All that, and too many towel changes, on Ep223.

00:00 - The Pharaoh’s Revenge

10:41 - The Switch 2 pre-order

19:26 - The Residence

36:34 - Blue Prince

48:21 - Dune: War for Arrakis

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

It’s all the twos on episode two two two, as two of us chat about… uh… two times two (four) big topics. The chaps talk about football (!!!) and why it’s so neat to go to events you might not normally attend. Back in much more familiar territory, we bring you a battle report from Salute 52; a miniatures wargames event run by South London Warlords. If that weren’t more than enough, then we’re also talking about the wonderfully wordy Landmarks by Floodgate Games, that combines vocab with map exploration to great effect (and may well lead to heated arguments between you and your friends, honestly). Plus Enigma Quest’s Escape Arcade is like a modern Crystal Maze you can explore (and hopefully escape).

All that, and probably some more twos we haven’t thought of, on Ep222.

00:00 - Becoming a wine snob

06:42 - Football: it’s good, actually

14:52 - Landmarks

31:34 - Salute 52

46:01 - Escape Arcade

On this episode were Peter (@XeroXeroXero) and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Head to the tabletop with us, as we review the piratical Captain Flip from PlayPunk, and the fiendishly family-friendly EXIT Kids: Riddles in Monsterville from Kosmos. Plus a dissection of what makes The Ultimate RPG Game Master's Worldbuilding Guide from James D’Amato such worthwhile advice to read.

All that, and what Jurassic Park is really all about, on Ep221.

00:00 - The Thing

02:37 - Captain Flip

19:57 - The Ultimate RPG Game Master's Worldbuilding Guide

41:57 - EXIT Kids: Riddles in Monsterville

On this episode were Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

It’s a bumper episode, so let’s get straight into it: we played so many games and saw so much stuff at AireCon, so Ep220 is all about it. There’s dexterity push-you-luck Strike, Witcher spin-off Gwent: The Legendary Card Game, the gorgeous Australis, nostalgic Divide & Conker, and smile-inducing board games like G.R.I.M. INC. and Things in Rings. And Fishing. And new hotness Daybreak. And incredible paints from Two Thin Coats. AND one of our favourite RPG experiences ever in The Ghost and Tales from the Loop.

All that, and even more AireCon miracles, on Ep220.

00:00 - Best. AireCon. Ever.

13:23 - Strike from Ravensburger

18:34 - Gwent: The Legendary Card Game from Hachette

20:40 - Australis from Kosmos

23:43 - Two Thin Coats from Trans Atlantis Games

25:25 - The Ghost from Millie Lavelle and Tales from the Loop from Free League Publishing

36:55 - Divide & Conker from No Drinks On The Table

38:06 - G.R.I.M. INC. from Terror Toad

39:47 - Daybreak from CMYK

57:44 - Fishing from Rio Grande Games

01:04:21 - Things in Rings from Allplay

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

On the tabletop, us four oldies take to the battlefield with the deeply strategic and surprisingly accessible Battalion: War of the Ancients from Osprey Games, and dive beneath the waves in Pacifica from Thames & Kosmos. Meanwhile, in the courtroom, we take a look at Capcom’s shockingly generous compilation Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy, and then pronounce judgment on Marvel’s latest, Captain America: Brave New World.

All that, and getting some paint on the brush, on Ep219.

00:13 - A PVA glue subscription?!

07:35 - Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy

20:18 - Painting miniatures

23:23 - Battalion: War of the Ancients

40:05 - Pacifica

46:39 - Captain America: Brave New World

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Having your world turned upside down is one thing, but having a whole new dimension added? That's tough! The Plucky Squire from All Possible Futures digs into this idea with approachable puzzles and tricky action. Meanwhile Wizards Cup from Pandasaurus Games is a two player magical duel with gorgeous art and a tight little footprint. Speaking of footprints, Katmai: The Bears of Brooks River from Osprey Games has ones in the shape of bear paws, as grizzlies compete for the ultimate prize: fish (of course). And Medical Mysteries: NYC Emergency Room from Identity Games has us playing House, diagnosing patients cooperatively in a race against time.

All that, and the perils of neat squash, on Ep218.

00:00 - Soup on the trousers and other stories

09:37 - The Plucky Squire

22:17 - Wizards Cup

38:00 - Katmai: The Bears of Brooks River

50:42 - Medical Mysteries: NYC Emergency Room

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Is Civilization from Avalon Hill and Gibsons Games still able to command 10 hours of your attention more than 40 years after its initial release? Can The Roottrees are Dead outdo Hypnospace Outlaw at Internet nostalgia and Return of the Obra Dinn at amateur sleuthing? Blending poker and heists, do we have a good enough hand to win The Gang? Are Ritz crisps? You have questions, and boy, do we have answers.

All that, and a bag of cola, on Ep217.

00:00 - Putting on the Ritz

05:54 - Civilization

30:28 - The Roottrees are Dead

40:57 - The Gang

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

We find out why Fireside Games’ co-op boardgame Castle Panic remains a masterpiece and how its wonderfully welcoming all-ages version My First Castle Panic brings in younger players while remaining entertaining for adults. Then a look at why the sheer amount of planning for a weekend playing Avalon Hill’s Civilization has been an early part of the overall joy of running this epic length event game. And the reasons why 100 years of Nosferatu has done nothing to take the sting out of the vampire’s bite.

All that, and Nora going door-to-door, on Ep216.

00:00 - Two Tuna Buses in a row, plus our favourite bedtime readers

08:48 - Nosferatu

26:01 - Preparing for Civilization

44:29 - Castle Panic and My First Castle Panic

On this episode were Kris (@DigitalStrider) and Peter (@XeroXeroXero).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Logging on to our (impressive!) virtual reality future with Meta Quest 3S, why we’ve head back to Stardew Valley after the embarrassment of riches included in the Stardew Valley v1.6 update from ConcernedApe, and returning to a classic with Amanita Design’s Samorost.

All that, and a sheep (or a pariah?), on Ep215.

00:00 - Santa Trauma

05:07 - Meta Quest 3S

30:12 - Stardew Valley v1.6

41:02 - Samorost

45:16 - “Beating” games

On this episode were Peter (@XeroXeroXero) and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

A mega massive wrap up of all our favourite things we discovered in 2024, including: Codenames, Duolingo, The Rise of the Golden Idol, Thank Goodness You're Here!, Thunder Road Vendetta, Hundreds of Beavers, Essen, Balatro, Midnight Mass, One Shot RPGs, Dungeon Crawler Carl, Deadloch, The Lord of the Rings Adventure Book Game, Wilmot's Warehouse, Godzilla Minus One, Cyberpunk 2077, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, Death's End, and the works of Simon Stålenhag.

All that, yes ALL THAT, and the pants option always available, on Ep214.

00:00 - Approaching a Sweep

03:18 - Codenames and Duolingo

07:23 - The Rise of the Golden Idol and Thank Goodness You're Here!

11:49 - Thunder Road Vendetta and Hundreds of Beavers

15:52 - Essen, Balatro, and Midnight Mass

20:45 - One Shot RPGs, Dungeon Crawler Carl, and Deadloch

29:39 - The Lord of the Rings Adventure Book Game

33:34 - Wilmot's Warehouse

40:50 - Godzilla Minus One and Cyberpunk 2077

44:37 - Tomb Raider I-III Remastered and Death's End

53:30 - The works of Simon Stålenhag

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to everywhere you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

We’re getting ready for a gaming Christmas! From the board game stack we’re setting our timers and taking in the fireworks show spectacle of Skyrockets: Festivals of Fire from Floodgate Games, figuring out if we prefer apples, oranges, or Gandalf in supersmart trick taker My Favourite Things from Play For Keeps, and forging fine art and trying to get away with it in Belratti from Kosmos. Away from the table and onto the track (via the couch), we frankly can’t believe how good the racing is in completely free PlayStation 4 and 5 game My First Gran Turismo from Polyphony Digital happens to be.

All that, and a Hot Frosty, on Ep213.

00:00 - Hallmark movies and Secret Santas

11:30 - My Favourite Things

22:43 - Skyrockets: Festivals of Fire

28:55 - Belratti

37:52 - My First Gran Turismo

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

We’ve smashed through the single page RPGs Pride and Extreme Prejudice and Crash Pandas from Rowan, Rook and Decard, and also gotten to the tabletop the kid-friendly The Colour Monster from Devir and Kosmos and Stomp the Plank from The Flying Games and Hachette. Plus a closer look at Color Gray Games and Playstack’s stupendous sequel The Rise of The Golden Idol.

All that, and, yes, it’s one of His, on Ep212.

00:00 - A Cold Snap

05:51 - The Rise of The Golden Idol

29:39 - Pride and Extreme Prejudice

38:45 - Crash Pandas

43:28 - The Colour Monster

46:40 - Stomp the Plank

53:12 - Secret Santa

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Spookily funny party game Ghosts Can't Draw (Big Potato Games), strategic sci-fi in Undaunted 2200: Callisto (Osprey Games), the frighteningly good Agatha All Along, and a David Mitchell mystery series called Ludwig; there’s loads of great geek stuff stuffed into just under an hour of audio.

All that, and tooth chat, on Ep211.

00:00 - Dental Battleships

05:52 - Ghosts Can't Draw

16:22 - Undaunted 2200: Callisto

31:17 - Agatha All Along

43:40 - Ludwig

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

A full report on our trip to the biggest board game show in the world - Spiel Essen - plus our favourite games from the show; Gibberers by Hobby Japan, The Chronicles of Berg by Rybysel Games, and Final Girl by Van Ryder Games. Then back at home we catch up with The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2.

All that, and lightning striking twice, on Ep210.

00:00 - Spiel Essen

16:15 - Gibberers

26:04 - The Chronicles of Berg

33:33 - Final Girl

48:30 - The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Why the digital edition of Codenames from CGE Digital just might be 2024’s best digital adaptation of a board game, Castle Combo from Catch Up Games and Hachette is a winning combination of tableau-building and card drafting, and the joys of a local Oktoberfest.

All that, and how it’s all kicking off in here, on Ep209.

00:00 - Watching the golf, the legendary John Daly, and “rough pubs” of Britain and beyond

10:51 - Codenames

32:29 - Castle Combo

48:46 - Oktoberfest

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.

Doing it live with Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Live In Concert, stacking shelves in CMYK’s Wilmot's Warehouse, travelling with Catch Up Games’ Faraway, and being lied to with Odd-Meter’s Indika.

All that, and teasing a child, on Ep208.

00:00 - How do you define “relax”?

05:24 - Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Live In Concert

11:16 - Wilmot's Warehouse

27:59 - Indika

45:42 - Faraway

On this episode were Dan (@ThisDanFrost), Kris (@DigitalStrider), Peter (@XeroXeroXero), and Sam (@MrSamTurner).

Our Spotify Playlist brings together lots of great thematic music inspired by the stuff we talk about.

Links to where you can find us - StayingInPodcast.com

Note: sometimes we'll have been sent a review copy of the thing we're talking about on the podcast. It doesn't skew how we think about that thing, and we don't receive compensation for anything we discuss, but we thought you might like to know this is the case.