Explore every episode of the podcast Brainwaves - Board Game and Tabletop News Show
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brainwaves Special Edition - All Good Things | 02 Feb 2026 | 01:18:47 | |
All good things come to an end, and so it is with Brainwaves. In this last special episode Richard from ‘We’re Not Wizards’ runs the show as we bring together all the hosts from the years of Brainwaves. Iain McAllister, Jamie Adams, Iain Chantler, Oliver Kinne, and Sam Maggs reminisce about the formation of the show, how it has changed over the years, why I brought it to an end and the future of games journalism.
Show Notes
Jason Perez on board game journalism
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newan
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky Iain https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Oliver https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Jamie https://bsky.app/profile/jamsandwich.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com
| |||
| Brainwaves Episode 172 - Thank You! | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:40:54 | |
It is the very last episode of Brainwaves. Iain, Jamie, and Oliver venture once more into the news wilds to bring you only the latest and best news. For our last show Mythic finally admit they are no more, the Diamond case starts to actually look like there may be a conclusion in sight, Ryan Dancey puts his backing behind AI, and the usual news on movements, promotions, hirings and more. Headlines
Mythic is gone
Ryan Dancey embraces AI
https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk/post/3m7isbb6h6s2e
Diamond Bankruptcy Court Denies Motions to Dismiss + Advisors Bill Another $900k https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/61085/bankruptcy-court-denies-motions-dismiss
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/61108/diamond-advisors-bill-another-900k
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/61214/bank-pulls-plug-diamond News
GAMA moves chairs
Mongoose licenses Traveller https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/61113/mongoose-licenses-traveller-5e-version
The Picts
https://www.rascal.news/carved-in-stone-is-both-a-history-book-and-an-eye-catching-rpg/ - paying subscribers only
https://www.stoutstoat.co.uk/products/carved-in-stone?ref=rascal.news Obituaries
RIP Burt Meyer Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Thanks very much for listening for all these years. The cast will still be around if you want to listen to our back catalogue and Iain will be covering the news in his newsletter that you can sign up for on our Patreon.
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky Iain https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Oliver https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Jamie https://bsky.app/profile/jamsandwich.bsky.social
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 171 - Final Countdown | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:35:23 | |
Iain and Oliver are in the studio to bring you the latest tabletop news from around the globe. From crowdfunding messes and AI promotion to Upper Deck getting counter-claimed by Ravensburger, we have all the important information you need. Also this episode we have a special announcement at the end of the cast.
Headlines
Altering the Deal https://gamefound.com/en/projects/altered/seeds-of-unity/updates/10
Steamforged Slash Terra Mystica Special Edition
Terra Mystica Gamefound campaign: https://gamefound.com/en/projects/steamforged-games/terra-mystica
Campaign update announcing the price drop: https://gamefound.com/en/projects/steamforged-games/terra-mystica/updates/7
UKGE promotes AI art https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1aAkxyfbrB/
Gates of Krystalia Kickstarter page: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/gatesofkrystalia-rpg/gates-of-krystalia-book-anime-tt-jrpg-in-style-isekai
Kickstarter United victory https://www.rascal.news/kickstarter-united-workers-will-strike-beginning-october-2/ https://www.rascal.news/kickstarter-united-ends-six-week-strike-with-a-resounding-victory/ https://kickstarterunited.org/?ref=rascal.news
Updates
Ravensburger wants money back from Upper Deck
News
Braincrack Games shutters instagram.com/p/DQfH0H3jH8t/?igsh=MXFjejF3aHhoZGc1OA==
Wise Wizard Games https://www.wisewizardgames.com/wise-wizard-games-business-update/
Asmodee interim report April-September 2025
Bezier Games’ Socials Hacked https://bsky.app/profile/beziergames.bsky.social/post/3m5umtfrre22v
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Tabletop Games Blog Raffle in aid of Trussell / UK Food Banks http://tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky Iain https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Oliver https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Jamie https://bsky.app/profile/jamsandwich.bsky.social
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 170 - Precious Musk | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:40:05 | |
The whole team is back in the studio to bring you the latest news from across the tabletop gaming globe. From acquisitions, financial reports, record breaking conventions, and card game companies taking on Musk. HeadlinesSpiel Essen 25 Breaks Attendance Record https://www.spiel-essen.de/en/press?view=article&id=304&catid=12
Deutscher Spiele Preis 2025 Winners https://www.spiel-essen.de/en/program/dsp
Asmodee wants the precious
Asmodee announces new studio
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60787/asmodee-launches-new-party-game-studio
Hasbro 3rd Quarter Results
https://www.rascal.news/sigil-suffered-a-slow-ignoble-death/ Updates
Upper Deck goes back to the well
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60786/judge-rules-against-upper-deck-ravensburger-suit
Asmodee acquires Cthulhu Death May Die from CMON https://corporate.asmodee.com/news/cthulhu-death-may-die-ip-and-games-now-part-of-asmodee News
Amigo games US shutters https://bsky.app/profile/amigogames.bsky.social/post/3m3ajgvmohc26
Cards Against Humanity and against SpaceX https://uk.pcmag.com/networking/160848/cards-against-humanity-we-forced-spacex-to-get-off-our-land
D&D Club goes to court
D&D Head brings back key talent https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60896/new-d-d-head-brings-back-key-talent Obituaries
Rob Wieland https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60796/r-i-p-robert-wieland
https://www.enworld.org/threads/gaming-journalist-rob-wieland-passes-at-age-48.715723/
https://www.gofundme.com/f/family-of-robert-wieland Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/ Outro
Ca-Ton
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky Iain https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Oliver https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Jamie https://bsky.app/profile/jamsandwich.bsky.social
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 169 - Kaiju HQ | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:27:40 | |
Jamie and Iain bring you the choicest cuts from the worldwide tabletop news beast. Seasoned with the usual amount of controversy, nonsense, and awards. Dig in on episode 169 of Brainwaves. Headlines
Kickstarter workers go on strike
GAMA rebrands https://www.rascal.news/gama-has-been-rebranded-as-er-gama/
CMON sells HQ
https://gamefound.com/en/projects/cmon/dc-heroes-united/updates/116 News
Games workshop sues miniature designer https://www.facebook.com/reel/1128194319521158
French Games competition
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Hasbro woman innovators in play https://spark.hasbro.com/womeninnovators
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/ Outro
Kaiju cluedo https://www.tabletopgaming.co.uk/news/clue-gets-a-monstrous-makeover-with-clue-godzilla/
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky Iain https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Oliver https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Jamie https://bsky.app/profile/jamsandwich.bsky.social
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 168 - Hel Bound | 22 Sep 2025 | 01:01:22 | |
The team are back in full force to bring you the latest news from across the tabletop gaming world. From CMON escaping Hel, to the gender split in designers, and an interview with two of the team behind Tabletop Scotland, we work hard to bring you the news that really matters. HeadlinesCmon escapes Hel
Ludonatue stops making new games
Tabletop Scotland grows https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopscot.bsky.social/post/3lyl5umadk32l Updates Diamond https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60388/order-clarifies-next-steps-diamond-consignment-inventory https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60503/diamond-files-adversary-proceedings-against-31-vendors https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60518/diamond-fees-top-1-million-july News Dutch boardgame prize https://denederlandsespellenprijs.nl/nieuws/nominaties-2025-bekend/
Gender split in designers https://bsky.app/profile/elizhargrave.bsky.social/post/3ly25x3cez227 https://boardgamegeek.com/geeklist/297088/games-by-women-and-people-of-marginalized-genders
Nominees for Bobby Nunes Memorial award https://sdhist.com/2025-bobby-nunes-memorial-award-finalists/ Jobs, Opportunities, and Eventshttps://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs Tabletop Games Blog Raffle http://tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle Patreon Shoutouts Kevin Bertram James Naylor Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/ Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/ Outro Monopoly Coin Our Links Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky Iain https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Oliver https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Jamie https://bsky.app/profile/jamsandwich.bsky.social
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 167 - Shrinking Minis | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:44:25 | |
Iain and Oliver bring you a bumper packed episode of Brainwaves with all the latest news, controversies, and occurrences from across the tabletop gaming world in episode 167 of Brainwaves. Headlines
Devir… damn guys that’s racist as hell https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3555308/just-some-ole-racist-history-crap/page/1 https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3555308/article/46440167#46440167 https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3555679/a-message-to-the-community https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60259/devir-recalling-ace-spades https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3555679/a-message-to-the-community
More CMON Executive Leavers and profit warning
US Import Tariff Troubles https://www.ctpa.org.uk/news/usa-de-minimis-exemption-suspended-8542
Updates
CGE Responds to HP Codenames Backlash CGE’s response on various social media platforms: Block Collective’s response: https://bsky.app/profile/blockcollectives.bsky.social/post/3lvyas4jezs2q
Read this https://www.rascal.news/zatu-denies-toxic-workplace-allegations-from-former-employees/ News
Ultimate Guard jump into Harry Potter controversy https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60061/new-harry-potter-ultimate-guard-deck-boxes-unveiled
GenCon 2025 Sets New Attendance Record https://www.gencon.com/press/record-breaking-gencon-2025 https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60227/gen-con-2025-sets-new-attendance-record Suzanne Sheldon post on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/425suzanne.bsky.social/post/3lvqiqhyche2g
Funforge has been liquidated https://ludovox.fr/funforge-en-liquidation-judiciaire-le-dernier-mot-de-son-fondateur/
Mobeus makes Big Potato a Hot Potato https://www.mobeus.co.uk/news/mobeus-backs-big-potato-games/ https://www.mobeus.co.uk/investments/big-potato-games/ Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Pegasus Designer Days 2025
https://pegasus.de/UEber-uns/Karriere/Designer-Days/ Application form: https://de.surveymonkey.com/r/KS5KF9F
Playfest London https://www.minervatabletop.co.uk/playfest
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/ Outro
Pictionary Potato https://shopping.mattel.com/en-gb/products/pictionary-pic-tato-hot-potato-game-jdx95-en-gb
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky Iain https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Oliver https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Jamie https://bsky.app/profile/jamsandwich.bsky.social
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 166 - Itchy Conjurations | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:42:17 | |
Jamie and Oliver bring you the latest news from around the tabletop gaming world. From CGE failing to conjure a decent response, to Gamefound acquiring a rival they cover the stories that really matter in episode 166 of Brainwaves. HeadlinesCzech Games Edition announces new Harry Potter Codenames https://bsky.app/profile/codenamesgame.bsky.social/post/3lul7oqmuws25 Gamefound Acquires Indiegogo https://gamefound.com/en/blog/post/gamefound-acquires-indiegogo https://go.indiegogo.com/blog/2025/07/gamefound-x-indiegogo-the-future-of-creativity.html
Itch blocks nsfw content itch.io Diamond https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60125/diamond-moves-sell-diamond-uk-employee-group Zatu denies exploitative environment claims Reddit post that was deleted - link to Web Archive / Way Back Machine saved version: https://web.archive.org/web/20250427174157/https://www.reddit.com/r/Norwich/comments/1k5xipq/experiences_with_employment_at_zatu_games/ Games Workshop rides high https://investor.games-workshop.com/news-posts/annualreport2025 Diana Jones Award 2025 Winners Announced https://www.dianajonesaward.org/ Obituaries Ace of Aces designer Al Leonardi passed away https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3542362/passing-of-al-leonardi https://www.potterfuneralhome.com/obituaries/alfred-leonardi/#!/Obituary Jobs, Opportunities, and Events https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs Playfest London https://www.minervatabletop.co.uk/playfest
Patreon Shoutouts Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky Iain https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Oliver https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Jamie https://bsky.app/profile/jamsandwich.bsky.social
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 165 - Diamond Heist | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:41:19 | |
Jamie’s off boating around, no really, so it’s just Oliver and Iain in the studio this week. On episode 165 of Brainwaves they cover Diamond Heists, Spiel Des Jahres, more trouble for CMON and D&D moving to a franchise model, whatever that means. Headlines
Diamond Distribution go on a heist Draughts union plans Rascal report: https://www.rascal.news/draughts-workers-celebrated-a-unanimous-strike-vote-with-a-rally-and-a-police-visit/ UVW statement: https://www.uvwunion.org.uk/en/disputes/were-not-playing-anymore/ Strike fund: https://www.uvwunion.org.uk/en/donate/
Spiel des Jahres Award Winners https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/aktuelle-preistraeger-2025/ https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/das-spiel-des-jahres-2025-heisst-bomb-busters/ https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/preisverleihung-2025-ich-dachte-das-koennte-etwas-werden News
CMON announces cancellation of Degenesis: Clan Wars Gamefound campaign after breakdown in relationship
https://gamefound.com/en/projects/cmon/degenesis-clan-wars/updates/43
https://www.goonhammer.com/games-industry-news-roundup-july-8th-2025/
Asmodee partners with Maestro https://www.tabletopgaming.co.uk/news/asmodee-launches-a-new-partnership-with-maestro-media/
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/59936/maestro-media-strikes-exclusive-distro-deal-asmodee
D&D moves to a franchise model
Tycoon Games acquires Gamelyn Games https://boardgamegeek.com/blog/1/blogpost/175835/tycoon-games-acquires-gamelyn-games
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/59970/tycoon-acquires-gamelyn-brand
Women in Toys - Wonder Women Awards - 2025 Nominees https://www.womenintoys.com/nominees
Cubicle 7 misses the credits https://bsky.app/profile/oldoakgames.bsky.social/post/3lslf7c2zsc2h Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Tag der Brettspielkritik 2025 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WuxxkAzN7LI
Tabletop Scotland https://tabletopscotland.co.uk/
Tabletop Games Blog Raffle http://tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/ Outro
Uno Casino edition
https://www.palms.com/press-room/mattel-debuts-uno-experience-at-palms-casino-resort
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky Iain https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Oliver https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Jamie https://bsky.app/profile/jamsandwich.bsky.social
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 164 - Zombie Dragons | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:24:05 | |
It’s the latest episode of Brainwaves! Join Iain and Jamie as they dive into the world of tabletop industry news to bring you the glistening pearls and dank seaweed from across the globe.
Headlines
Hasbro cuts 3% of workforce
Dungeons and Dragons designers end up at critical role https://darringtonpress.com/welcoming-chris-perkins-and-jeremy-crawford-to-our-team/
DrivethruRPG hates rebels
Updates
Tabletop Workers United win a Union contract
Zombicide finds a new home https://www.cmon.com/press/zombicide-finds-a-new-home-with-asmodee/
News
Diana Jones Award finalists announced https://bsky.app/profile/dianajonesaward.org/post/3lrsurculak25
Elizabeth Hargrave, Kristin Looney and others meet Capitol Hill to talk about Tariffs https://bsky.app/profile/elizhargrave.bsky.social/post/3lrcd6cvll22l
Link to S 1593: https://www.congress.gov/119/bills/s1593/BILLS-119s1593is.pdf
Related post on GAMA’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TheGAMAOnline/photos/gama-members-and-staff-are-on-capitol-hill-advocating-for-zero-tariffs-on-toys-a/1128806115959973/
Reaper moves out of the UK https://bsky.app/profile/leedseurope.bsky.social/post/3lrzrtm47ac25
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Tabletop Games Blog Raffle http://tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 163 - IP Busters | 09 Jun 2025 | 00:33:39 | |
The team of three are back to bring you the latest tabletop news. This episode we have fresh stats from UK Games Expo, companies setting fire to their IPs, ebay busting unions, and the Spiel des Jahres nominations. Headlines
UK Games Expo figures https://bsky.app/profile/ukge.bsky.social/post/3lqkkfgaem22y
Union Busting Escalation
CMON Fire Sale https://www.cmon.com/press/legendary-games-find-new-homes/ News
Spiel des Jahres nominations announced https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/aktuelle-preistraeger-2025/
HCM Kinzel GmbH goes into insolvency
HCM Kinzel website: https://shop.hcm-kinzel.de/
Cardboard Edison Award Winners 2025 Announced https://cardboardedison.com/award Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Game in Lab (Asmodee) - International call for projects https://www.game-in-lab.org/en/international-call-for-projects/
IWGB launches tabletop freelancer survey https://bsky.app/profile/gameworkers.co.uk/post/3lpmfw3tj2k2u The survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdT1nYVqWkNVZa_jH_9q1Ofw_k-7Bbpko9EkrZFsvGU6ny3eQ/viewform
Tabletop Games Blog Raffle http://tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle
Battle in the Burgh Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/ Outro
StoryBake- game and bake your game https://www.rascal.news/storybake-is-out-of-the-oven/ Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 162 - Hammer Down | 19 May 2025 | 00:37:35 | |
Oliver and Iain are the dynamic duo this week as we bring you a packed show full of the usual controversy, the bizarre, and worthwhile celebrations. Headlines
Games Workshop on Rampage https://spikeybits.com/warhammer-40k/games-workshop-freezes-assets-amid-world-wide-seller-takedown/
World Warhammer Championship boycotted by some players https://www.rascal.news/players-boycott-the-world-championships-of-warhammer-because-of-trump/
Goodman Games works with Fascists
https://goodman-games.com/a-statement-about-city-state-of-the-invincible-overlord/
https://goodman-games.com/an-additional-statement-about-city-state-of-the-invincible-overlord/ Updates
Greater Than Games
Tariff pause https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/12/china-us-agree-pause-trade-war-trump https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvgv5n00e0jo https://www.npr.org/2025/05/13/nx-s1-5395866/us-china-tariffs-trade-deal https://ludorum.substack.com/p/tariffs-and-pricing-oh-my
Alliance Game Distributors acquired https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/59575/under-new-ownership-alliance-diamond News
Rowan, Rook and Decard give Gencon a wide berth https://rowanrookanddecard.com/were-not-coming-to-gencon-this-year/?v=7885444af42e
Canada’s largest miniatures producer shutters
Original Facebook post: https://www.facebook.com/RafmCthuhluMiniatures/posts/pfbid02Zj5n1Jy8Kf85o3ap12FwAFQNMbirMGcD3FzYoLnB6TcLUyLHrpZtMXQZanDCKoDnl
Silver Fox / RAFM website: https://rafm.com/
Diana Jones Emerging Designer Award Winners https://www.dianajonesaward.org/
BGG winners announced https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3508413/article/46053839#46053839 Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
http://tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain Outro
Pendragon features at law creative day
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 161 - Suit up | 05 May 2025 | 00:34:02 | |
It’s just the Scottish team behind the mics this week as we bring you updates on tariffs and Diamond looking particular rough alongside all the latest industry news in Brainwaves Episode 161. HeadlinesStonemaier Games sues the president Stonemaier Games blog post: https://stonemaiergames.com/we-are-suing-the-president/
Lawsuit press release from Pacific Legal: https://pacificlegal.org/press-release/board-game-company-files-lawsuit-challenging-constitutionality-of-trump-tariffs/
CNN news video clip: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=I8yFGUk8JG4&t=4s&pp=2AEEkAIB
Flat River Games
CMON woes
Updates Alliance and Diamond News Meredith Placko, Steve Jackson CEO resigns https://buttondown.com/boardgamewire/archive/steve-jackson-games-ceo-meredith-placko-resigns/
Final Frontier Games Hachette Boardgames acquires 999 Games https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/59439/hachette-acquires-game-distributor https://www.hachette.com/en/publisher/hachette-boardgames/
2025 Mensa Select Winners Announced https://www.mensamindgames.com/about/winning-games/
WotC attempts to sidestep Creative Commons license Jobs, Opportunities, and Events https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Ravensburger Game Inventor Days https://www.ravensburger.de/de-DE/entdecken/spiele/game-inventor-days#Englisch
Tabletop Games Blog Raffle http://tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle
Ancient Robot Workshop https://ancientrobotworkshop.co.uk/ Patreon Shoutouts Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain Outro Gotta old em all Our Links Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 160 - Trump Tariffs | 14 Apr 2025 | 01:08:31 | |
It’s been a little longer between episodes but the whole team are back to tackle the only news that matters on the latest episode of Brainwaves. Headlines Trump tariffs turn tabletop topsy turvy https://us8.campaign-archive.com/?u=036529e593805041d1127c76d&id=c7c5d971eb
https://rowanrookanddecard.com/what-the-new-usa-tariffs-mean-for-us/?v=7885444af42e
Updates
CMONs woes continue
CMON’s profit warning: https://www1.hkexnews.hk/listedco/listconews/sehk/2025/0312/2025031201125.pdf CMON’s statement on the delay of publishing results: https://www1.hkexnews.hk/listedco/listconews/sehk/2025/0325/2025032502165.pdf HK Stock Exchange suspension notice: https://www1.hkexnews.hk/listedco/listconews/sehk/2025/0401/2025040103643.pdf NewsCorey retires
Greg Stafford recognised at Garycon https://bsky.app/profile/newsnerd.bsky.social/post/3lkzejdtf3c2z
Amy Lowe leaves GAMA https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/59242/people-move-gama-marketing-communications-manager-out Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Golden Geek Awards https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3489648/19th-annual-golden-geek-awards-nominations-open
Tabletop RPG Grant https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScWfC5OMFE4woK5ryF9a-fYPlyVP2W4EsZcrez3QPbc11OnBw/viewform
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain Outro CMYK launches TV Show
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 159 - CMON now | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:31:52 | |
It’s been a while but we are back with all the latest tabletop news. From profit warnings to big projects being cancelled, tune in to the only tabletop podcast that brings you the stories that really matter. HeadlinesCMON Issues Profit Warning
https://www.cmon.com/project-status/#crowdfunding
Is Magic losing its sparkle? No of course not.
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/58912/wotc-magic-sales-down-q4-full-year-2024
https://giantbrain.co.uk/2024/01/15/news-digest-brainwaves-episode-135/
The Sigils aren’t good News GAMA/Origins Award Nominations https://www.originsawards.net/news/announcing-the-48th-annual-origins-awards-finalists
Cardboard Edison award finalists announced https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rZLrFoWkt4E4uDjcUYDYvkwAUcjlqkCR/view
As D’Or Award https://www.festivaldesjeux-cannes.com/en/festival-as-d-or-jeu-de-l-annee
https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2024/03/30/odin-saturday-review/
Stonemaier Games Stockholder Report https://stonemaiergames.com/2024-behind-the-scenes-stakeholder-report-for-stonemaier-games/ Obituaries
Respected boardgame box artist Rodger MacGowan passes https://boardgamegeek.com/blog/1/blogpost/171204/rodger-b-macgowan-has-passed-away-at-age-77
GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-recovery-of-rodger-mae-and-steven
Ernie Gygax passes https://www.enworld.org/threads/ernie-gygax-has-passed-away.712080/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Tabletop Mentorship Programme https://www.unpub.org/mentorship Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Nearly 2 decades later, they win again Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 158 - Possible Possums | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:54:34 | |
The team are back to scour the corners of the world for the best in Tabletop Gaming News. This episode we cover mergers, departures, destruction, and we have an interview with those Rascals.
Headlines
Steve Jackson merges with Possum Games https://www.rascal.news/possum-creek-games-wanders-to-a-new-home-with-steve-jackson-games/ https://www.sjgames.com/ill/archive/2025-02-11?ref=rascal.news
Mythic crumbles
Thomas Interview
Updates
BGA Awards update https://boardgamearena.com/news?id=873
News
6 out of 10 tabletop role-playing games campaigns were Gamefound. KS rattled? https://www.polygon.com/analysis/520142/gamefound-top-10-biggest-board-game-crowdfund-campaigns
GTS cancels Splotter’s Indonesia
Snowbright Studio announces winners of the second annual Nonbinary Tabletop Award https://bsky.app/profile/snowbrightstudio.bsky.social/post/3liamf2lp2k2g https://www.snowbrightstudio.com/awards
Swiss Game Awards
Haba and Asmodee France
Roman discovery
Obituaries
Carla Horger https://bsky.app/profile/gmtgames.bsky.social/post/3lha6racnoc26
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Young Game Designers Scholarship Open for Applications Again https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/nachwuchs-spieleautoren-stipendium-wieder-ausgeschrieben/
Evil Hat creator programme https://bsky.app/profile/evilhat.bsky.social/post/3lhh5uzbtts25
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Outro
People of note: Cornelius O’Donovan https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgj29qly2dvo
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 157 - Diamond Dogs | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:46:02 | |
It’s another bumper episode of Brainwaves as we bring you news from across the Tabletop globe. Diamond is in the rough, Asmodee avoids a hug, lawsuits get settled, and Iain gets to go off on one about ethics. All this, and more, on episode 157 of Brainwaves.
Headlines
Diamond files for bankruptcy https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/58618/diamond-files-reorganization-under-chapter-11-bankruptcy
https://bsky.app/profile/deadlyfredly.bsky.social/post/3lgbg6e7np22o
Asmodee may not Embrace
Ennies cave over AI inclusion https://ennie-awards.com/revised-policy-on-generative-ai-usage/
Updates
Webcomic Name lawsuit settled
https://boardgamegeek.com/geeklist/259248/golden-bell-affiliated-projects-and-companies
Evil Genius Games continue to live up to the first part of their name https://www.reddit.com/r/rpg/comments/1i6b2wt/i_was_approached_by_evil_genius_games_to_take/
News
Wizards of the Coast drops support for marginalised gender competition https://bsky.app/profile/vmlmtg.bsky.social/post/3lg6zejwvss2l
Man vs Meeple and CMON
Outcry in Italy over Mafia game
As d’Or nominees
BGA Awards 2025 https://boardgamearena.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=40673
Devir acquires publisher Maldito Games https://devirgames.com/devir-acquires-publisher-maldito-games
Games Workshop trade grows, but online shrinks
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Beachhead Expo https://www.beachheadexpo.com/
Diana Jones Award submissions are open https://www.dianajonesaward.org/
Green Games Guide Award
TTRPG Bundles
https://bundleofholding.com/presents/Resistance
https://takethisorg.itch.io/solo-but-not-alone-5
Hasbro’s history with the Magdalene Laundries
https://web.archive.org/web/20241125184313/https://littleatoms.com/penance-industry
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Outro
Pictionary vs AI https://shop.mattel.com/products/pictionary-vs-ai-hyb09
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 156 - New Trousers | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:24:37 | |
The whole team is back for the first Brainwaves of the year. Join us as we dive into the latest tabletop gaming news from Hasbro rolling the dice on gambling to chess clashing with the wrong trousers! All this and more on episode 156 of Brainwaves. Headlines
Hasbro rolls the dice https://igamingbusiness.com/company-news/games-global-unveils-exciting-partnership-with-hasbro/
It’s the wrong trousers, Magnus
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce8npkrey66o
Vallejo Workers https://www.rascal.news/striking-workers-at-vallejo-paint-factory-claim-victory/ https://spikeybits.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Vallejo-Statment.png Updates
Most Monopoly
News
Cardboard Edison Award 2025 Submissions Open https://cardboardedison.com/award https://cardboardedison.com/2025-award-submissions Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Protos y Tipos https://asociacionludo.com/actividad/protos-y-tipos
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain Outro
Monopoly changes the game https://www.polygon.com/gaming/492505/monopoly-new-version-expansions-announced
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Special Edition - Dragonmeet 2024 | 06 Jan 2025 | 00:30:39 | |
This podcast contains all the interviews that I conducted during Dragonmeet 2024. Thanks so much to everyone that took the time to talk to me.
The interviewees are:
Jason, Always Checkers Publishing Chris, Beyond Cataclysm Mike, Planet Smasher Games Shaan, RPG Taverns Finbar and Gary, Game Therapy UK
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 155 - Christmas Joyride | 16 Dec 2024 | 00:56:47 | |
It’s the last cast of the year and we have a full team in the studio to bring you the latest tabletop gaming news. From people taking off their masks, to copyright disputes, and awards news. Listen to the only cast to bring you the really important industry news. HeadlinesHas Powerboats been taken for a Joyride? Joyride vs Powerboats thread https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3412685/powerboatspowerships-joyride
Geoff Engelstein https://gametek.substack.com/p/copy-paste
Episodes where we have covered plagiarism allegations https://giantbrain.co.uk/2021/03/08/episode-68-kickstarter-conundrums/ https://giantbrain.co.uk/2018/04/29/episode-3-legal-vampires/
Cardboard Edison changes tack https://bsky.app/profile/cardboardedison.bsky.social/post/3lcatxomwp22c https://cardboardedison.com/award
Sandy Petersen wears no mask Sandy’s posts
Quimbley’s response https://www.quimbleys.com/blogs/kickstarter-updates/quimbleys-official-inclusion-statement
Updates
Summit Award for Wargaming winner announced - and Bobby Nunes Memorial Award finalists announced https://sdhist.com/2024-summit-award-land-and-freedom/ https://sdhist.com/2024-bobby-nunes-memorial-award-finalists/
Wyrmwood fires staff https://www.rascal.news/wyrmwoods-bitter-medicine-is-proving-hard-for-audiences-to-swallow/
Facebook pulls Fort Circle Games ad. Again. https://bsky.app/profile/fortcircle.bsky.social/post/3lbyybi6hls2s
News
Itch is taken offline by Funko https://www.polygon.com/gaming/492791/itch-io-funko-takedown
Leaf’s post to Hacker News https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42364033
GW enters the FTSE 100
SUSD becomes a publisher. Sort of https://www.shutupandsitdown.com/were-partnering-with-play-to-z-to-launch-exciting-new-games/
Hachette becomes distributor for Edition Spielwiese
Vallejo workers on strike
https://www.rascal.news/vallejo-factory-workers-go-on-strike/
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Spiel des Jahres Funding Programme 2025 https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/foerderprogramm-2025-startet-einreichungen-ab-sofort-moeglich/
https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/foerderprogramm/
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Outro
Monopoly Toppling Taxi https://monopoly.fandom.com/wiki/Monopoly_Free_Parking:_The_Toppling_Taxi_Game
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 154 - Taxing Times | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:30:10 | |
It’s a cast of finances, awards, lawsuits, and political games as Oliver and Iain cross the world in the episode 154 of Brainwave to bring you the best in Tabletop Gaming News. Headlines
Tariffs and Trade Rules Tax Tabletop Publishers https://www.sjgames.com/ill/archive/2024-11-10
https://www.compliancegate.com/general-product-safety-regulation/
https://bsky.app/profile/badsquiddogames.bsky.social/post/3lb7r4n7eni22
https://www.rascal.news/new-legislation-impacts-games-sales-to-the-european-union/
Zenobia Award II Winners Announced https://sdhist.com/zenobia-award-the-porters/
Hasbro Sued by Investors https://www.polygon.com/tabletop-games/479315/hasbro-investor-lawsuit-pandemic-inventor Updates
US Tabletop Unionisation Solicitation News
German Parliamentarian Game Night https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/spielekultur-landet-im-bundestag/
Asmodee Gets Cash Injection Obituaries
Amber Cook https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/58275/r-i-p-amber-cook GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/9bkqj-in-memory-of-amber-cook-support-her-son-james
Kory Heath https://boardgamegeek.com/blog/1/blogpost/167622/in-memoriam-kory-heath
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Board Game Raffle in Aid of The Trussell Trust / UK Food Banks https://tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/ Outro
Mystery Monopoly Midden Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 153 - World Worries | 11 Nov 2024 | 00:30:06 | |
It’s been a mix of huge stories and not much else in the last few weeks. Iain and Jamie bring you the lowdown on what is going on at World of Game Design, who is bagging awards, hasbro’s financials, and what size of country the population of D&D Beyond could establish. All this, and more, on episode 153 of Brainwaves Headlines
WOGD investigation by Rascal
Zac Goins Facebook post
Hasbro conference call
https://www.enworld.org/threads/hasbro-hit-with-layoffs-wizards-of-the-coast-impacted.707539/page-2
FSC award
https://us.fsc.org/en-us/get-involved/fsc-leadership-awards/2024-leadership-award-winners-01 News
Commander Format
https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/announcements/introducing-the-commander-format-panel
Summit award finalists Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Boardgamewire report on Tabletop Jobs Group
Dragonmeet Attendance
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain Outro
Food for Fought
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Special Edition - Tabletop Scotland 2024 Interviews | 28 Oct 2024 | 00:30:11 | |
In this special edition of Brainwaves we present the interviews that we carried out at Tabletop Scotland 2024. Thanks so much to everyone who spoke to us.
People and Organisations
Kayla Dice - Rat Wave Game House
Games mentioned
DrievthruRPG links are affiliate links
Hopes and Dreams of the Orbital Bound What’s so daring about sky pirates
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 152 - Mythic Shrinking | 21 Oct 2024 | 00:44:19 | |
Iain is taking this cast off so Jamie and Oliver are at the helm. This episode they cover further troubles at Mythic, companies being saved and consolidating their lines, controversial giveaways and more on episode 152 of Brainwaves.
Headlines
Mythic Games France liquidates https://annonces-legales.leparisien.fr/annonce/23cba43f-8a82-48c1-8f57-6a2285e239c3
Funforge ‘saved’ by Tokaido deal
Spiel Essen Sold Out https://www.spiel-essen.de/en/press?view=article&id=222&catid=12
News
Barnes & Noble to list game designers https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/57959/barnes-noble-begin-listing-game-designers
NAC Wargames hands out Nazi memorabilia https://bsky.app/profile/celacanto.bsky.social/post/3l5qu6lhp4j2n The Other Side of the Hill crowdfunding campaign: https://gamefound.com/en/projects/masqueoca/the-other-side-of-the-hill/ Publisher’s response on BGG: https://boardgamegeek.com/image/8461574/the-other-side-of-the-hill?commentid=12438977 Gamefound update about the Iron Cross medal: https://gamefound.com/en/projects/masqueoca/the-other-side-of-the-hill/updates/5
Matagot shrinks catalogue
Steve Jackson Games announces Fighting Fantasy Deal https://www.sjgames.com/fightingfantasy/
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Boardgamewire
Outro
English Heritage Games https://www.english-heritageshop.org.uk/toys-games/games/board-games
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Special Edition - Gothcon Interviews | 14 Oct 2024 | 01:18:25 | |
This special episode of Brainwaves is all the interviews I conducted at Gothcon earlier in the year. Gothcon is Sweden’s premier convention with games across all genres of the hobby and it was my privilege to be invited across. You can read all about my time there in the posts below and listen to the wonderful RPG community I had the pleasure of being involved with
https://giantbrain.co.uk/2024/03/30/gothcon-2024-arrival-and-day-1/
https://giantbrain.co.uk/2024/03/31/gothcon-2024-day-2/
https://giantbrain.co.uk/2024/04/07/gothcon-2024-why-do-i-attend-events/
Pontus
Gothcon https://wordpress.gothcon.se/en/
Blackfisk Publishing
https://blackfiskpublishing.com/
Mika
https://mindy.nu/2024/07/29/bubblare-ian-mcallister-fran-brainwaves/
Emil. ROAR
Hjalmar Norden, Red Moon Roleplaying
https://www.redmoonroleplaying.com/
Magnus Seter
Nina, Gothcon Organiser
Anna, Podcast Room Organiser
| |||
| Brainwaves Episode 151 - Commander Catastrophe | 07 Oct 2024 | 00:37:02 | |
While Jamie is off in that there London, Iain and Oliver are once more behind the mics to bring you the latest tabletop news. In episode 151 we cover Wizards taking over Commander, CMON losing board members, the usual smattering of awards, and a good few stories about unions. All this and more on this episode of Brainwaves.
Headlines
Commander Format Firestorm Zenobia Award Finalists Announced https://zenobiaaward.org/finalists/
CMON loses COO https://investor.cmon.com/governance
Updates
Cops called on TTWU protestors https://www.rascal.news/brooklyn-strategist-owner-calls-police-on-employee-walkout/
https://www.gofundme.com/f/supportTWU?ref=rascal.news
https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/tabletop-workers-united-boycott-pledge?source=direct_link&
News
TCG Player workers call for Union contract https://www.polygon.com/tabletop-games/459782/tcgplayer-union-ebay-rally-fair-pay https://cwa-union.org/tapped-out-tcgplayer
Games Workshop Shareholder Revolt
CAH sues Elon Musk
2024 Player’s Handbook Breaks Dungeons & Dragons Records
Big Bad Con Boycott averted https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mrxQaSbXd_SlFB7NJxhrCIHFsKKOvcvmLEHoXxVBstY/edit
Deutscher Spiele Preis 2024 Winners Announced https://brettspielbox.de/brettspiel-preis-deutscher-spielepreis-2024-dsp24-sieger/
Stonemaier Games acquires "Tokaido" from Funforge https://mailchi.mp/stonemaiergames/stonemaier-games-monthly-newsletter-august-2989870?e=f9ef617363
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Bluesky list of board game people https://bsky.app/starter-pack/boardgamehottakes.bsky.social/3l5aovjrq6j2p
Tabletop Games Blog Board Game Raffle in aid of The Trussell Trust / UK Food Banks https://tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
What we Clue-do in the Shadows
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com
| |||
| Brainwaves Episode 150 - Ethical Dilema | 18 Sep 2024 | 01:25:23 | |
We have a longer than usual cast for your this week as we take a look at the controversy around Simon Lavender, a UK board game influencer. It is our only headline this week, but we still cover the business of the industry with new hires at Restoration Games, Asmodee, financial hits at CMON, a series of competitions and more!
Headlines
Influencer Simon Lavender accused of bad practices
https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3352419/a-simon-lavender-review-what-to-do-with-dishonest/page/1
The accusations at the centre of this are on page one of the link above. There are a large number of screenshots we have saved in regards to this story that will appear in a separate document linked to below. These include Simon’s replies in the thread above and my conversation with Simon.
Amass Games channel page https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xg-md_i730k&ab_channel=AmassGames
Amass games video on The Strange Forgeries of S.C. Rheber https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xg-md_i730k&ab_channel=AmassGames
News
Paul Sawyer shares Terminal Diagnosis
Tabletop Workers Union subject to Union busting https://www.rascal.news/tabletop-workers-union-protest-alleged-union-busting-hex-co-management/
Thomas Kœgler appointed as New Chief Executive Officer of Asmodee
Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks talks AI https://www.enworld.org/threads/hasbro-ceo-chris-cocks-talks-ai-usage-in-d-d.706638
CMON Profits Take a Hit
Tabletop Scotland goes large https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopscot.bsky.social/post/3l3xcqlecdx2g
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
2024 Traditional Deck Game Design Contest https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3360317/2024-traditional-deck-game-design-contest
2024 Roll and Write Game Design Contest https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3353041/2024-roll-and-write-game-design-contest
The Game Crafter VHS Challenge https://www.thegamecrafter.com/contests/vhs-case-challenge
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Map-nopoly https://www.worldofmonopoly.com/otherpages/map.php
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 149 - Poisoned Pieces | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:32:19 | |
Jamie is off seeing some shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, so Oliver and Iain are behind the mics this week to report on the latest tabletop news. From poisoning and sexual harrasment in chess to astonishing numbers, we bring you the news that really matters. Headlines Chess Poisoning & Sexual Harassment https://www.chess.com/news/view/russian-chess-player-suspended-after-allegedly-poisoning-her-rival
https://www.polygon.com/gaming/440094/international-chess-scandals-2024
Lego and Asmodee build a house
Gen Con sells out https://www.gencon.com/press/gen-con-2024-breaks-attendance-records-press-release https://www.gencon.com/press/4daysellout https://www.gencon.com/press/2024-charity-partners-announcement-tangram-rose-gauntlet
News
Embracer Numbers
Deutscher Spiele Preis 2024 Finalists https://www.spiel-essen.de/en/program/dsp
Boardgamearena passes 10 million users
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
People of Play Young Inventor Challenge https://www.peopleofplay.com/blog/young-inventor-challenge-registration-is-open
International Game Inventors Convention https://www.spielwarenmesse.de/en/game-inventors-convention/ SDhistcon https://sdhist.com/badges-sdhistcon-summit-2024/
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Tabletop Scotland https://tabletopscotland.co.uk/
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk https://bsky.app/profile/tabletopgamesblog.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 148 - Spiel Reel | 05 Aug 2024 | 01:07:07 | |
With Oliver back from the Spiel des Jahres we have interviews with the winners, chat about the controversy, dive into finances, and lift up awards. Just another day at GB HQ as we bring you the best in tabletop gaming news.
Headlines
Spiel des Jahres 2024 awards ceremony controversy https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/preisverleihung-kennerspiel-des-jahres-2024/ Matteo Statement https://medium.com/@baddeo/why-i-wear-55cb9459d8e7
Hasbro Earnings https://www.fastcompany.com/91163137/hasbro-earnings-reveal-monopoly-go-made-3-billion-dollars
Diana Jones Award 2024 Winner Announced https://x.com/dianajonesaward/status/1818883478617723112?s=4 Tabletop Industry Network (not Indie like Iain said on the cast) Alex’s email alex.speidel@unitedpaizoworkers.org
News Braincrack Games
WOTC removes credits https://www.enworld.org/threads/wotc-removes-digital-content-team-credits-from-d-d-beyond.705711/
Funforge not forging fun
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/funforge/monumental-african-empires/description
GAMA Announces First Tabletop Game Retailer Survey https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/57477/gama-announces-their-first-tabletop-game-survey Berlin Brettspiel Con 2024 visitor figures up
Gary Gygax day https://www.visitlakegeneva.com/blog/post/celebrating-50-years-the-birthplace-of-dungeons-dragons/
Dave Arneson estate questions publisher https://www.arnesonestate.com/press
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Elizabeth Hargrave List
Pegasus Designer Days https://pegasus.de/en/designer-days
2024 Inventor Pitch & Innovation Conference https://www.chitag.com/2024-inventor-pitch-innovation-conference
Board Game Raffle in Aid of The Trussell Trust / UK Food Banks
Tabletop Scotland https://tabletopscotland.co.uk/
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Monopoly Go board game https://www.polygon.com/24199990/monopoly-go-board-game-announcement
Monopo-Lee-ds
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 147 - Scammers Delight | 22 Jul 2024 | 00:32:49 | |
Oliver is off at the Spiel des Jahres ceremony and Brettspiel so it is up to Iain and Jamie to bring you the latest tabletop news. From Facebook scams to new presidents we bring you the news that really matters across the tabletop world on episode 147 of Brainwaves.
Headlines
Scam takes in major publishers
Ennie Awards open https://vote.ennie-awards.com/vote/2024/
Spiel des Jahres https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/2024_preistraeger/
Updates
Berserk Games Update https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/2757485/article/44554066#44554066
11 Concurso de Protojuegos https://www.verkami.com/games-contest-2024
Petersen Games and Quimbley https://www.quimbleys.com/pages/pg-quimbleys-faq
News
Hasbro names new WOTC President https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/57388/hasbro-names-new-wotc-president
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Tabletop Scotland 2024 https://tabletopscotland.co.uk/
Berlin Brettspiel Con 2024 https://berlin-con.de/en/homepage_en/
Board Game Raffle in Aid of The Trussell Trust / UK Food Banks tabletopgamesblog.com/raffle-july/
AB Con https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/oluwafemi/the-african-boardgames-convention-ab-con-2024
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
D&D Stamps https://shop.royalmail.com/dungeons-&-dragons-prestige-stamp-book
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 146 - Hull Breach | 08 Jul 2024 | 00:38:18 | |
In a quieter couple of weeks for the tabletop industry the team still endeavors to bring you the industry news that really matters. From data breaches to big anniversaries it’s all here in Brainwaves episode 146
Headlines
Roll20 data breach https://help.roll20.net/hc/en-us/articles/24620372778775-Data-Security-Incident-July-3rd-2024-FAQ
2018 breach https://blog.roll20.net/posts/conclusion-of-2018-data-breach-investigation/
2024 WiT Wonder Women Awards Nominations https://www.womenintoys.com/nominees https://www.womenintoys.com/wonder-woman-awards
Meeps, the Spiel Essen mascot, is back… https://www.spiel-essen.de/en/news?view=article&id=172&catid=8 https://www.spiel-essen.de/en/?view=article&id=175&catid=9
News
2023 Charles S. Roberts Awards Winners Announced https://charlessrobertsawards.com/2023-charles-s-roberts-awards-winners-announced/
Origins Awards https://www.originsgamefair.com/2023-hall-of-fame-class
Mattel colourblind accessible
Nyctophobia https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/249505/nyctophobia
Obituaries
Andreas Mutschke, Spiel der Jahres Jury Member and one of the Founders of Fairplay Magazine, Dies https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/in-gedenken-an-andreas-mutschke/
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Ravensburger Game Inventor Days https://www.ravensburger.de/de-DE/entdecken/spiele/game-inventor-days#Englisch
GAMA Horizons Fellowship Applications Now Open https://www.gama.org/page/Horizons
Rascal Pledge Drive https://www.rascal.news/audience-appreciation
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Rubik’s Cube turns 50
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 145 - Trademark Trouble | 24 Jun 2024 | 00:59:30 | |
The team of 3 are back again like a renegade master. Only up to date references on this show. It’s another bumper cast as we cover the Spiel des Jahres, trademarks you won’t believe exist, and people on the move in the industry. All this, and more, on episode 145 of Brainwaves.
Headlines Spiel des Jahres Nominations https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/nominierte-spiele-2024.html https://boardgamegeek.com/blogpost/162128/spiel-des-jahres-nominations-for-2024-captain-flip
Martina Fuchs Interview https://giantbrain.co.uk/2023/07/24/brainwaves-episode-126-spiel-special/
Meeple trademarks https://gamefound.com/en/projects/cogito-ergo-meeple/meeple-inc/updates/9
German trademark: https://register.dpma.de/DPMAregister/marke/register/3020211016416/DE
US trademark attempt: https://tsdr.uspto.gov/#caseNumber=98576863&caseSearchType=US_APPLICATION&caseType=DEFAULT&searchType=statusSearch
Hachette Boardgames UK and Laurence King partner https://www.hachetteboardgames.co.uk/
Updates
Dicebreaker broken
Evil Genius games continue to live up to half of their name https://evilgeniusgames.com/blog/our-technology-code-of-ethics/?ref=rascal.news
TTWU negotiations
News
UKGE People's Choice Awards https://www.ukgamesexpo.co.uk/content/news/peoples-choice-awards-2024/
Jogo do Ano https://www.spielportugal.org/jogo-do-ano
Game Brewer is Closing https://gamebrewer.com/gamebrewer-goodbuy/
X-Wing and Armada ending https://www.atomicmassgames.com/transmission/update-on-star-wars-x-wing-and-star-wars-armada/
People on the Move
Liz Davidson becomes solo game specialist for Leder Games https://bsky.app/profile/beyondsolitaire.bsky.social/post/3kvcjlxe35k2k https://x.com/ledergames/status/1803532695886028857?s=46
James Hewitt and Sophie Wiliams join Warcradle
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Medieval game pieces
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Special Edition - UK Games Expo 2024 | 17 Jun 2024 | 01:21:41 | |
Hello everyone,
In a break from our usual cast, this is a set of interviews I carried out at UK Games Expo 2024. I’ve provided links to all the folk mentioned and more besides in the show notes. Hope you enjoy!
Folks we mention on the cast
Darington Press - Candela Obscura
| |||
| Brainwaves Episode 144 - Merger Palooza | 09 Jun 2024 | 00:54:43 | |
The whole team are back together covering a bumper crop of news. Mergers everywhere, UK Games Expo expands (and we were there), awards, controversies, and of course we tell you if Ryan Dancey is accountable. The answer will not surprise you.
Headlines
Steamforged bought Privateer Press rights https://steamforged.com/en-gb/blogs/brands/sfg-acquires-iron-kingdoms
Update 1
UK Games Expo figures
Diana Jones finalists https://www.dianajonesaward.org/the-2024-award/
Updates
Ryan Dancey update https://x.com/rsdancey/status/1795600725034283418
Spiel Essen drops AI art
News
Roll20 acquires Demiplane https://blog.roll20.net/posts/roll20-has-acquired-demiplane/
Mantic acquires River Horse assets https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/57016/mantic-acquires-river-horses-brand-assets
Gamefound becomes a store https://gamefound.com/en/blog/post/our-next-big-release-introducing-creator-stores-to-gamefound
https://help.gamefound.com/article/381-project-settings-for-store
Quantum teach board game with Uwe Rosenburg
First Wonders CCG https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3307388/a-little-light-doxxing-from-jeff
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Palestinian children-focused fundraiser
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Cluedo Liars edition https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/345582/clue-liars-edition
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 143 - Awards Accountability | 28 May 2024 | 00:38:36 | |
Oliver and Iain are back in the studio as Jamie continues to travel Scotland. This episode they bring you up to date news on the winners of the Cardboard Edison Award, look at the finances of our overlords, and ask “Is Ryan Dancey accountable?”. Tune in to find out the answer.
Headlines
Cardboard Edison Awards https://cardboardedison.com/award
Asmodee financials and Embracer Write Down https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/56967/embracer-writes-down-asmodee-dark-horse
Is Ryan Dancey Accountable?
Original tweet https://x.com/PonchoRebound/status/1661308221326229504/photo/3
Apology Tweet https://twitter.com/rsdancey/status/1661409374735327235
Updates
Mythic doubles down
Iain’s “Review” https://giantbrain.co.uk/2024/05/19/6-siege-first-thoughts/
News
Dicebreaker acquired by IGN https://bsky.app/profile/soulmuppet.bsky.social/post/3kt3qiftbh32l
18th Annual Golden Geek Winners for 2023 Announced https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3300892/18th-annual-golden-geek-winners-for-2023
Diana Jones emerging designer https://www.dianajonesaward.org/
Dice Tower AI https://bsky.app/profile/boardgamefeast.bsky.social/post/3ksp5kgndn22u
Funko Gets a Wizard https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/56880/wotc-prez-funko
Japan’s Game Market Website Hacked
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Cluedo Conspiracy https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/391824/clue-conspiracy
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 142 - Unions Unite | 13 May 2024 | 00:26:22 | |
Jamie is on tour around the islands of Scotland so it falls to Oliver and Iain to bring you the latest episode of Brainwaves. They look at the finances of CMON, support for designers in the US and UK, and cover some interesting programmes from the folk behind the Spiel des Jahres.
Headlines CMON sales https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/56802/cmon-sales-flat-2023 Tabletop Games Designers Association IWBG Union welcomes tabletop members https://iwgb.org.uk/en/post/iwgb-tabletop-workers/
Updates
Mythic review email
News Spiel des Jahres Support Programme https://www.spiel-des-jahres.de/foerderprogramm-2024-73-000-euro-fuer-spielerische-projekte/ Deutsche Spiele Preis https://spiel-essen.de/de/programm/dsp#abstimmen
Black Lotus beats the One Ring Biggest card tournament https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/56813/largest-tcg-tournament-ever
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Fallcon game award https://fallcon.com/CGDA/Rules
Patreon Shoutouts Kevin Bertram James Naylor Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/ Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/ Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 141 - Triple Threat | 29 Apr 2024 | 00:25:44 | |
It’s been a busy couple of weeks in the tabletop industry, but never fear. The Brainwaves team are here to bring you all the latest news both big and small from across the globe. Headlines Embracer splits up
WOTC ceo steps down https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/56723/wizards-coast-president-resigns
Goliath buys Lucky Duck https://toyworldmag.co.uk/goliath-acquires-lucky-duck-games/
News Japon Brand joins CMON https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/56786/japon-brand-love-letter-machi-koro-to-join-cmon-limited
Kickstarter implements late pledges https://updates.kickstarter.com/first-look-late-pledges-on-kickstarter/
D&D is good for you? https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/81119/1/JCU_Merrick%20et%20al%202023%20AAM.pdf
Steve Jackson Game Sales down https://www.sjgames.com/general/stakeholders/
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Fanroll https://fanrolldice.com/ref/2783/
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro Clue TV series https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/clue-film-tv-adaptations-hasbro-sony-1235979732/
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Gothcon - How do we review RPGs? | 22 Apr 2024 | 00:48:59 | |
Hi folks,
This is another special from my time at Gothcon in Sweden. This is a panel I lead where the panellists and I talk about the state of RPG criticism in 2024 and how we go about reviewing RPG products.
The Panellists Thanks to the panellists for joining me and discussing this interesting topic! Andreas Lundström - Sweden Rolls Hjlmar Norden - Red Moon Roleplaying https://www.redmoonroleplaying.com/ Michael Ericson - Äventyrarna Rollspelspodd https://www.facebook.com/arpodd/ Ras
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| Brainwaves Episode 140 - Copied Spells | 15 Apr 2024 | 00:35:00 | |
Brainwaves is a whole 6 years old! We would like to thank all our listeners for their support and encouragement over the time we have been running the show. The whole team are back this episode to bring you the return of Golden Bell, the defence of Hasbro by Chris Cocks, more plagiarism in Magic: The Gathering and much more!
Headlines
Webcomic Name creator sued by Golden Bell
Episode 110 https://giantbrain.co.uk/2022/11/14/brainwaves-episode-110-tolling-bells/
History of Golden Bell scandals https://boardgamegeek.com/geeklist/259248/golden-bell-affiliated-projects-and-companies
Chris Cocks interview with NPR https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2024/04/03/dungeons-and-dragons-hasbro
MTG Plagiarism again
Post from the artist
Updates
Embracer finishes restructuring at Asmodee
News
Ellie Dix works with Hasbro
Capstone and Spielworx https://www.spielworxx.de/news/
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Scouts Cluedo https://shop.scouts.org.uk/outlet/scouts-cluedo#selection.color=34&selection.size=719
Monopoly film, Margot Robbie’s company now producing https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-68786095
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky:https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Blades in the Dark at Gothcon | 08 Apr 2024 | 01:37:27 | |
Bit of a different cast to our usual today. This is an actual play I did at Gothcon, Sweden. If you aren't familiar Actual Play is a type of RPG that is recorded for people to listen to how a game plays out. I hope you enjoy it. This one is for Blades in the Dark, a game I love to bits. Players Huge thanks to the folks who played and made my job really easy! Andreas Lundström - Sweden Rolls Hjlmar Norden - Red Moon Roleplaying https://www.redmoonroleplaying.com/ Krister Svanlund Giant Brain links for Blades How to play, and run, Blades in the Dark https://giantbrain.co.uk/2023/04/06/how-to-play-and-run-blades-in-the-dark/ Review https://giantbrain.co.uk/2017/07/30/blades-in-the-dark-review/ Player's Review https://giantbrain.co.uk/2022/06/22/blades-in-the-dark-players-review/
Giant Brain socials Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com
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| Brainwaves Episode 139 - "Compelling" AI | 25 Mar 2024 | 00:35:02 | |
The team of 3 are back together to bring you the best, weirdest, and most controversial news stories from around the tabletop industry. This episode cover companies collapsing, “compelling” AI, and new factories.
Headlines
Ninja Division files for bankruptcy
Hasbro presents “compelling” case for AI
https://venturebeat.com/games/how-hasbro-is-jumping-on-the-game-opportunity-chris-cocks-interview/
CGE acquires new factory https://czechgames.com/en/home/news-24-03-01-cge-acquires-their-own-factory/
Updates
Haba emerges from Bankruptcy https://habafamilygroup.com/en/haba-familygroup-end-self-administration-insolvency-proceeding
News
Nasa RPG https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/multimedia/online-activities/the-lost-universe/
Stonemaier Stakeholder Report
James Ward Dies
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
BRP Design challenge https://www.chaosium.com/blogthe-basic-roleplaying-design-challenge/
Gothcon https://wordpress.gothcon.se/en/
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Uno fan decks
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 138 - Golden Edison | 04 Mar 2024 | 00:30:17 | |
Oliver is back in the studio giving us a full complement of hosts this week! On Brainwaves Episode 138 we look at awards, shipping issues, a Tempest reising in the industry and look ahead to some conventions Iain is attending.
Headlines
As D’Or Winners announced https://www.tabletopgaming.co.uk/news/french-board-game-award-winners-announced/
Cardboard Edison Awards https://cardboardedison.com/award
Prospero Hall folk start a new studio
https://www.tempestworkshop.com/?trk=public_post-text
News
Shipping woes
Rascal
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Roleplay for Ukraine https://linktr.ee/roleplayua?fbclid=IwAR2Bj78x6y1VTvvjh7Z_w1ujo9Pgim8KwR5w9kO8SY72N__siGrCY_cxbLk
Diana Jones Emerging Artist Award https://www.dianajonesaward.org/
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Airecon
Gothcon https://wordpress.gothcon.se/en/
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 137 - Cold Embrace | 19 Feb 2024 | 00:30:58 | |
The Brainwaves team are back to bring you the best in tabletop gaming news. This cast covers callous corporations, soaring crowdfunding, fantastically diverse awards, and D&D on stage?
Headlines
Hasbro Financials https://investor.hasbro.com/financial-information/quarterly-results
Embracer prioritises shareholders
https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/56241/board-game-sales-down-asmodee-embracer-q3
Gamefound soars https://www.polygon.com/24063935/gamefound-top-10-biggest-board-game-campaigns-2023-kickstarter
https://www.polygon.com/24054381/kickstarter-top-10-biggest-most-backed-board-games-campaigns-2023
https://gamefound.com/en/blog/post/cmon-and-gamefound-announce-exclusive-pact
Updates
So you want to be a games master
Evil Genius games may just be evil https://www.enworld.org/threads/the-rise-and-fall-of-evil-genius-games.702617/
News
Sexism in Chess https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-68201529 https://twitter.com/SusanPolgar/status/1752090239491830179
Non-Binary Tabletop Awards https://www.snowbrightstudio.com/press/first-annual-nonbinary-tabletop-award
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
MTG grant
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
D&D on stage
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 136 - Cold Funk | 29 Jan 2024 | 00:23:42 | |
It’s the team of Iain and Jamie this episode to bring you all the best, and worst, in tabletop gaming news. From Funko selling off their best asset, to Mojo award winners, we have all the latest breaking news.
Headlines
Funko sells game division
RPG controversy https://diyanddragons.blogspot.com/2024/01/xandering-is-slandering.html?m=1
Mojo Nation https://mojo-nation.com/read-the-mojo-nation-100-2024-edition-online-now/ https://mojo-nation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Mojo-Nation-100-2024-Edition-Digital-Download.pdf
Updates
Evil Genius settles Netflix case https://evilgeniusgames.com/blog/the-netflix-case-been-settled/
Synapse fires up the engines https://jeuxsynapsesgames.com/en/
News
Mythic sends backers to Hel https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1162110258/anastyr/posts
BGA Award Winners
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 135 - New Knockout | 15 Jan 2024 | 00:45:47 | |
The Brainwaves Team are back from our festive hiatus. Every two weeks we bring you the best in tabletop gaming news from the controversial to the down right strange. This episode we cover Hasbro’s unwanted Christmas present, Wizards in AI art trouble (again), Tabletop Mentorship programme expanding, and can you guess what Iain thought he would never type into the show notes? HeadlinesHasbro cuts workforce in the run-up to Christmas https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/dec/11/toymaker-hasbro-layoffs
Wizards under fire for AI art. Again https://www.polygon.com/24029754/wizards-coast-magic-the-gathering-ai-art-marketing-image
D&D Beyond on AI
Tabletop Mentorship Programme joins Unpub https://unpub.net/tabletop-mentorship-program-now-part-of-unpub/
Punchboard UK Link UpdatesBrooklyn Strategist Unionises https://boardgamewire.com/index.php/2023/12/14/third-new-york-board-game-cafe-in-a-month-wins-fight-to-establish-union/ News Votes for Women wins Summit Award https://sdhist.com/votes-for-women-2023-summit-award/
American Economic Liberties Project Amazon secures 40k series https://www.warhammer-community.com/2022/12/16/warhammer-starring-henry-cavill/
Nightfall Games picks up on AI art
Kelp counterfeited before release https://wonderbowgames.com/en-uk/blogs/news/counterfeit-copies-of-kelp
Steamforged partners with Lucky Duck https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/55980/steamforged-partners-lucky-duck
Chess back in the news Obituaries Bernward Thole
Bryan Charles Ansell https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bryan_Ansell
Jenell Jaquay Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Cardboard Edison Awards Open https://cardboardedison.com/award
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain Outro Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 134 - Wizards Embrace | 11 Dec 2023 | 00:32:37 | |
The team are back after a longer break between episodes and the tabletop world has been busy. From more art theft, to awards, loads of updates, and unfortunate lawsuits Jamie and Iain bring you the best in tabletop news from across the world in the last Brainwaves of the year!
Headlines
Wizards steals more art
https://twitter.com/L_Lanfranconi/status/1725886246176587996?s=20
Embracer in trouble https://kotaku.com/embracer-dead-island-2-remnant-2-layoffs-lord-rings-1851028963
Dicebreaker Awards https://www.dicebreaker.com/events/tabletop-awards-2023/news/tabletop-awards-2023-finalists
https://www.dicebreaker.com/events/tabletop-awards-2023/news/tabletop-awards-2023-winners
https://www.dicebreaker.com/companies/dicebreaker/news/dicebreaker-owner-reedpop-investigating-sale
Updates
Berserk Games https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/2757485/seeking-help-regarding-berserk-games-resolved-reop
Hasbro women innovators winners announced https://spark.hasbro.com/womeninnovators#contest
New york board game cafe unionises
Tranquility update https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/boardgamehub/tranquility-the-ascent/posts/3977117 News
Colin Dixon dies https://medium.com/@eric.seri/colin-dixon-in-memory-of-a-great-sculptor-artist-de7f85f0ffc8
https://bolterandchainsword.com/topic/381735-colin-dixon-has-passed/ https://twitter.com/Eldritchseer/status/1726963857162457350
Games companies sue each other
US postal service D&D stamps next year
GW £2500 bonus
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
Contestants wanted for the Genius Game in the UK on ITV https://www.thegeniusgameuk.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Bonjopoly https://shop.bonjovi.com/products/bon-jovi-monopoly
Natwest board game https://www.tabletopgaming.co.uk/News/natwest-bank-launch-their-own-christmas-board-game
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Twitter: https://twitter.com/thegiantbrain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves 133 - Messy Pigs | 13 Nov 2023 | 00:26:52 | |
It’s just the two of us, by which I mean Oliver and Iain bringing you the tabletop news this week. This episode we cover the collapse of games companies, the formation of organisations, where you can watch the new D&D TV channel, and much more on episode 133 of Brainwaves.
Headlines
Devil pig down the drain
https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3176686/devil-pig-team-official-statement
Essen Hacked https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/3179815/looks-essen-messe-have-been-hacked
Tabletop Game Designers Association
Updates
Handiwork Games theft update https://handiwork.games/the-loss-of-the-trials-of-the-twin-seas-pallet.html#more-33369
News
Othello solved
John Wick leaves Chaosium
Lin Codega and others fired from G/O Media https://twitter.com/lincodega/status/1722678033037865255
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
FanRoll Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Gaelic Scrabble https://www.thenational.scot/news/23892986.scottish-gaelic-scrabble-game-released-christmas/
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Twitter: https://twitter.com/thegiantbrain Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/giantbrain.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 132 - Hasbro Halloween | 30 Oct 2023 | 00:23:01 | |
It’s a spooky news cast. No not really. Well maybe a bit. At the start. Blame Jamie. This episode of Brainwaves the team bring you a Hasbro heavy episode as that company releases its third quarter earnings, Magic changes its booster format, Wizards starts a TV channel. All this and more in Brainwaves Episode 132.
Headlines
Wizards starting TV channel https://www.polygon.com/23919779/dnd-dungeons-dragons-actual-play-tv-show-encounter-party
Hasbro Third Quarter Earnings https://investor.hasbro.com/static-files/a2a2197c-0a07-49c8-8506-34ccf3bee347 https://investor.hasbro.com/static-files/e4ea25ee-9afa-4e94-9467-443df121a4c7
Magic pack change after 29 years https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/making-magic/what-are-play-boosters
News
Paizo Price rises https://paizo.com/community/blog/v5748dyo6sifa?Paizo-Pricing-Sustainability-Update
Snowbright Announces New Award https://www.snowbrightstudio.com/awards
Kickstarter project steals art https://twitter.com/Judgement_Dave/status/1715996516077154621
Roll20 VTT Humble Bundle for Extra Life https://www.humblebundle.com/software/roll20-bundle-software
Bundle For Gaza https://itch.io/b/2120/games-for-gaza
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Jeff Goldblum
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Twitter: https://twitter.com/thegiantbrain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 131 - AI Smile | 16 Oct 2023 | 00:38:53 | |
Oliver and Iain are back behind the mics after a little hiatus due to holidays and lurgy. We bring you a bumper crop of news from the last month from companies suing netflix to Essen using creep AI, companies closing down, others asking for money and all the news from across the tabletop gaming hobby! All this and more on episode 131 of Brainwaves.
Headlines
Evil Genius sues Netflix regarding Snyder project https://evilgeniusgames.com/press-release/evil-genius-games-sues-netflix-over-rebel-moon-game/
Essen uses AI
Backerkit announces AI policy https://www.backerkit.com/blog/backerkit-ai-policy/?ref=bk_social_100223
Updates
Mythic games go back to the well https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1162110258/darkest-dungeon-the-board-game/posts/3927462
News
Winner of the Deutscher Spielepreis https://twitter.com/brettseggel/status/1709490335628345637
Board Game Hub folds https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/boardgamehub/tranquility-the-ascent/posts/3934241
Games cafe staff move to unionise
Gaming goat orders lost in the post https://www.reddit.com/r/boardgames/comments/16srgx9/comment/k2beb9z/
Penguin no longer distributing Wizards of the Coast in the states
Zenobia Award nominee finds publishing home
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Rose Gauntlet Foundation https://www.rosegauntlet.com/pages/rose-gauntlet-foundation-about
Melsonian Arts Council offer publishing advice https://x.com/MelsonianArts/status/1708150021932167243?s=20
Boardgame event at British Library https://www.bl.uk/events/board-games-fest-at-the-british-library
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Immersive Cluedo
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Twitter: https://twitter.com/thegiantbrain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||
| Brainwaves Episode 130 - Berserk AI | 18 Sep 2023 | 00:33:32 | |
In this edition of Brainwaves the team cover Berserk Games not paying their dues, troubles at Haba, and the continued rise of AI in the hobby. All this, and more, on this episode of Brainwaves.
Headlines
Berserk Games
https://twitter.com/digisprite/status/1700078934769987626
https://boardgamegeek.com/thread/2757485/seeking-help-regarding-berserk-games-resolved-reop
Dicebreaker Article we refer to in the Jamey Stegmaier quote
Haba is insolvent
https://observatorial.com/news/economy/510171/german-toy-manufacturer-haba-filed-for-bankruptcy/
TerrAIforming Mars
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/strongholdgames/more-terraforming-mars/description
Kickstarter AI policy
Updates
Gencon thieves charged https://www.polygon.com/23860343/gen-con-magic-the-gathering-felony-theft-charges No Rolls Barred
Adam’s statement https://www.instagram.com/p/CxGsZC7MBru/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D
News
Sheldon Menery, creator of commander format, dies
Meguey Baker Breast Cancer Fundraiser
Jobs, Opportunities, and Events
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TabletopJobs
Hasbro Woman Innovators of play challenge
Patreon Shoutouts
Kevin Bertram
James Naylor
Shaun Newman facebook.com/gamealotboardgames
Our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/thegiantbrain
Support Us https://giantbrain.co.uk/support-us-new/
Metallic Dice Games https://metallicdicegames.com/ Promo Code: ROLLWITHBRAINS
Sir Meeple https://sirmeeple.com/collections/the-giant-brain
Outro
Second highest valued pokemon card for second place card https://www.tabletopgaming.co.uk/News/ultra-rare-pokemon-card-breaks-sales-records-at-444-000
Our Links
Thanks very much for listening. If you like what you’ve listened to then the best way to help us out is to share the podcast and drop us a review and rating on itunes. You can also follow us on
Oliver: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/ Discord: https://discord.gg/3bMx2HK75r Twitter: https://twitter.com/thegiantbrain Bluesky: https://bsky.app/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantbrainuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegiantbrain Website: https://giantbrain.co.uk/ Email: giantbrainuk@gmail.com | |||