Welcome to Meeples and Wine! Your podcast of board game reviews for couples, with a drink in hand!

This week we’re playing Radlands by Roxley Games, a two-player only card game that pits you and your opponent as rival gangs in a post-apocalyptic world! Drawing from the same deck, you’ll defend your three camps with people ranging from the super accurate sniper to the lowly punk (though, remember, PUNKS ARE PEOPLE TOO!) Find synergies and combos to do damage and eventually destroy your opponent’s camps, while launching your raiders to do direct attacks! You can find Radlands at Roxley’s page HERE. (We don’t get any commissions, just helping you find it easy!)

We’re sipping on The Culprit red blend! “The Culprit” is a fruit-forward wine with intense aromas of ripe raspberries and toasty vanilla oak. It offers rich flavors of blackberry jam and dark chocolate, framed by a velvety texture, with a long, lingering, and smooth finish.

For our Last Call, we’re discussing “The Pawn’s Gambit” a chess card game on Gamefound right now! The Pawn’s Gambit is a chess-inspired card game for up to 6 players, blending strategy and tactical duels. Players aim to checkmate rivals or be the last with a surviving king using three card types: Opening Cards, which set unique strategies with medieval characters; Piece Cards, reflecting classic chess pieces; and Imbalance Cards, depicting warfare scenarios that shift game conditions. Win by securing two rounds or outlasting opponents in a chaotic, strategic showdown. You can get notified when it launches HERE! If you love the art, as we did, you can find their Instagram HERE.

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples & Wine, your podcast of board game reviews for couples, with a drink in hand!

In today’s episode, we’re tasting Clad & Cordon Vineyard’s Cordon Blue, a blueberry wine from Creal Springs, Illinois. It has a sweet and fruity profile with ripe blueberry notes. This blueberry wine pairs well with creamy desserts, various cheeses, light salads, sandwiches, and even certain meats like chicken or fish.

We’re playing Hive, an abstract board game where the goal is to trap your opponent’s Queen Bee. It’s a two-player game designed and illustrated by John Yianni, and published by Gen42 Games. Each player has 11 insect pieces, including a Queen Bee, Spiders, Beetles, Grasshoppers, and Ants, each with unique movement rules. The game is played without a board, and pieces must remain connected in a “hive”. We also discuss expansions like the Ladybug, Mosquito, and Pillbug, which add new movement abilities and strategic options to the game.

For our “Last Call” segment, we looked at “Trenchcoat Raccoons” on Gamefound, a fast, rules-light tabletop RPG about chaotic heists and cartoon logic. Players control raccoons in a stack, pretending to be a human in a trenchcoat. Next week, we’ll be reviewing Radlands by Roxley Games, a post-apocalyptic game where punk bands fight to destroy rival tribes’ camps.

You can contact us at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn. You can also leave us a voicemail at (707) 572-5282. If you like the show, be sure to share it with a friend!

See you next time on Meeples and Wine! Buh-Bye!

In this episode of “Meeples & Wine,” we review the 2023 Protea Dry Rosé from Anthonij Rupert Wyne and the board game Alice’s Garden, and talk of how freaking big a Protea can get (image below!)

We also have a twofer for the Last Call, with Knitting Circle by FLATOUT GAMES and Dice Throne Outcasts + Adventures Unchained which are set to complete on Fri, December 13 2024 and Mon, November 18 2024, respectively. So get on that if you want some great new games!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples & Wine number four! We’re still going strong for #NaPodPoMo and are planning some cool things for future shows, such as winery visits and going to our local game store! This week we discuss the card game Sushi Go! by Gamewright, Roll For It! by Calliope Games and the Pendragon Games Escape From New York that is currently on Gamefound.

Still deciding on what game we’re going to play for our first demo show, so if you’d like to chime in and give us your thoughts head to Twitter where we’re @meeplesandwine, email us at meeplesandwine@javakat.com or if you’re feeling saucy leave us a voicemail at our Speakpipe!

Hello and welcome to episode three of Meeples & Wine, the third of thirty for #NaPodPoMo November, 27 to go! Today we talk about strategy games that we love, such things like Roborally, War of the Ring and the Reiner Knizia Lord of the Rings games both the 2000 version and the children’s version from 2003. We also chat about racing/maze games such as Formula 1 game Formula De and the sci-fi racer/combat game Rush n’ Crush!

If you’d like to help us choose our first game demo show message us your suggestions! You can contact us on Twitter @MeeplesAndWine, email us at meeplesandwine@javakat.com or leave us voicemail at https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

Welcome to episode 2 of Meeples & Wine! Today, day two of thirty for #NaPodPoMo, we discuss Old Soul Vineyards’ 2016 Old Vine Zinfandel, our favorite games when we were kids, and Hike It! The Board Game currently on Kickstarter.

Remember if you’d like to get in touch with a game you’d like us to demo, you can find us on Twitter @meeplesandwine

Here’s the Dead Alewives thing Mike was talking about!

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Hello and welcome to the first episode of Meeples & Wine! We are Michael and Suzanne, trying our first NaPodPoMo where we will (attempt) to post 30 episodes in the month of November! We’re easing into this one with our intro show, where we’re discussing the trials you go through trying to make mead, terrible glass jug wine, what types of games we prefer and also who we are!

Welcome back to Meeples & Wine, where Michael and Suzy bring you the latest in board game reviews for couples—alongside a delicious glass of wine! In this episode, we dive into the world of both vampire slaying and Chilean wine. We’re tasting Casillero del Diablo’s Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its bold cherry and blackcurrant notes with a hint of vanilla, perfect for pairing with grilled meats and mature cheeses. With medium body and marked tannins, this wine unfolds a story as rich as the legend behind its name: “The Devil’s Cellar.”

On the board game front, we’re taking on the supernatural forces of Unmatched: Buffy the Vampire Slayer. With a versatile lineup of beloved characters like Buffy, Spike, Willow, and Angel, players battle it out using unique abilities, whether it’s Buffy’s iconic cartwheel kick or Willow’s foray into black magic. With a BGG rating of 7.6 and a complexity of 2/5, this action-packed game plays well with two to four players, offering a great mix of strategy and fandom. Will Unmatched: Buffy prove to be a relationship builder or a couch sleeper? Tune in for our “Fun Score” and “Couch Score” ratings to find out!

To wrap things up, we explore the evolution of our wine over time and highlight a new Kickstarter find—an upcoming Discworld RPG by Modiphius. Don’t forget to follow us on social media, drop us a voicemail, or reach out via email at meeplesandwine@gmail.com. And remember, sharing is caring—so pass on Meeples & Wine to a friend!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Hello, Meeples and Wine listeners! This week, we sunk our teeth into The Hunger, a vampire-themed deck-builder by Richard Garfield. In the game, you play as vampires hunting humans to gain points, but there’s a catch: you need to make it back to your castle before sunrise, or you’ll burn to ash! It’s a fun push-your-luck experience where you must balance collecting points with your race against time.

We paired the game with a bottle of Vampire Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, which was a solid hit with its smoky, oaky flavor and rich notes of plum and mocha. The game was great for two players, but we both agreed it would be even better with a few more friends to compete against. We also touched on the expansion, Hunger: High Stakes, which adds werewolves and vampire hunters into the mix, making the game even more intense.

If you love spooky deck-builders, we definitely recommend giving this one a try, especially with some vampire wine on the side! More info on the wine here.

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

In this episode, we review Fire Tower and taste Toasted Head 2022 Chardonnay, along with the Last Call Kickstarter “Wild Imaginary West”.

00:00 Welcome to Meeples and Wine
00:24 Meet Your Hosts: Michael and Susie
00:47 Contacting Meeples and Wine
01:02 The Voicemail Debate
02:13 Today’s Game: Fire Tower
02:39 Wine Tasting: Toasted Head Chardonnay
08:41 Fire Tower: Game Overview
12:04 Fire Tower: Game Mechanics
16:42 Fire Tower: Strategy and Gameplay
21:04 Fire Tower: Special Cards and Roles
22:25 Winning Strategies for Shadow of the Wood
22:47 Champion of the Wood: Special Abilities
23:34 Fire Tower: Rising Flames Expansion
25:23 Playing Fire Tower with Two Players
26:11 Balancing Offense and Defense
27:51 Fun Score and Relationship Impact
29:17 Final Thoughts on Fire Tower
32:35 Wild Imaginary West RPG
41:06 Meeples and Wine: Where to Find Us

Greetings! This week Michael and Suzy play Apollo: A Game Inspired by NASA Moon Missions, by Buffalo Games, and also holds our record for the longest game title to date! Choose your role as either the team of Astronauts or Mission Control as you attempt to successfully either orbit the Earth in the Gemini II mission pack or make it to the moon and back in the Apollo! This won’t be easy, as every turn you must handle systems breaking down, succeeding in your mission level goals and managing to get some experiments done while floating through the black! You can pick up Apollo at our Amazon Associates link HERE!

We also sample Blueberry Spaceship Box, from Superstition Meadery in Arizona. This dark, sparkling cider is a mix of fresh blueberries and granny smith apples, a dark and tart beverage that goes great with the hot summer sun!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

This week we review Unexpected Games’ 3000 Scoundrels, a futuristic wild-west shootout of bluffing and misdirection! In this game you and up to three more of your friends play rival leaders vying to gather as much of the technology left behind by the mysterious “Traveler” who has just disappeared. Gather your posse together by joining the trait and transparent job cards to create new Scoundrels to hire, will you have a Corrupt Printer, Filthy Dog, or Helpful Banker? Play your poker hand to gain cash, scout the tech loaded safes, and then steal them, but be careful, if you get caught bluffing you’ll lose reputation in town!

If you’d like to pick this one up you can follow our Amazon Associates link to 3000 Scoundrels HERE!

(We do get a little cash on this, and you get a great game!)

We also sample Aldi’s 3 Rein Red Blend from Colombia Valley, Washington!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine! This week Michael and Suzy play Flock Together from Sea Cow Games, taste La Vieille Ferme Rosé, and test out two new microphones! (Let us know how you think it sounds!) Yes, in this week’s game we take on the role of two chickens trying to survive three seasons against the elements and the predators that surround our coop, as Madame Chickovski and Cluckerberry Finn we go claw to toe against such villians as Professor Moleiarty, Chicksune and Cleopoultra!

We also taste La Vieille Ferme Rosé, a fruity light wine for hot days, and attempt a cocktail with it also, with mixed results.

Our Final Call is the Scented Realms Kickstarter, a scent based system to get just a little more depth and immersement to your tabletop games!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

This week Michael and Suzy play Shadows Amsterdam, from Libellud games, an abstract clue giving game where players guide their teams across the map to discover clues, avoid the police, and find their client before their opponents do (or the timer completes!) That’s our Amazon Associates link up there, if you use it we will get some cash from it!

Instead of a wine, we taste a mixed drink this week, the Phillip Marlowe Gimlet. This sweet tart drink made of Bombay Gin and Rose’s Lime Juice, with roots going back to the 1800s!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

This week Michael and Suzy play the second game from their Kozz games Kickstarter, Dark Tomb: Bloodthorn Island! It’s the follow up to the first game, Crypts of Aurelian. This time around, though, it’s got a BOAT! We also taste The Supernatural Sauvignon Blanc, a 100% Sauv Blanc from New Zealand!

Be sure to check out our Kickstarter Last Call, Imperial Borders, HERE!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

This week we take a look at the first game from our recent Kickstarter purchase from Kozz games, Dark Tomb: Crypts of Aurelian, a “super portable” tabletop game (think Altoid’s tin-ish) where 1 to 5 players descend into the tombs to reclaim the Amulet of Fire to save Gorriah! It’s got all the cubes you want, and a multiple play-through setup so no two games are the same!

Along with this we’re tasting Chronic Cellars Suite Petite, another suggestion from our wine department friends at our local Binny’s. It’s a Petite Sirah, one of Michael’s favorite varietals!

Don’t forget to check out this week’s final call, Misty Valley from Grumlin Games!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

This week we’re celebrating our anniversary by going to the Galena Uncorked wine festival! We’ve come back with the two player game “Genius Square” and are trying Massbach Ridge Winery’s Daffodil sweet white!

For the Last Call we’re going to Kickstarter to take a look at Even Deeper Regrets: An Unfortunate Fishing Game Expansion, where you can pledge at here!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Hello and welcome back to everyone! This week Michael and Suzy are tasting a yuzu fruit sake cocktail mixing Zipang Sparkling Sake and Joto Yuzu Sake, a suggestion that we got from Susie and Tim, wine consultant and manager respectively, from our local Binny’s Beverage Depot out in Geneva, IL. Spoilers, there was nothing left by the end of the show…also, we are in no way sponsored by Binny’s (yet.)

We also play Shinobi Wat-ahh! A hand management/worker placement game from Iello Games out in France! Play an aspiring lord who is vying to take the throne from the aging Emperor of the Moon! Gather allies from the nine clans of the Dragon, Monkey, Crow and more, reinforce the clans with ronin and use the magic of the yokai to ensure victory, but be careful not to become too corrupt as that may spell defeat in the end!

This may be hard to find, since it came out in 2014, but if you may find it in the wild!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

We’re back and this week we’re reviewing Rocket House Games‘ Potion Panic a frantic race to become the Alchemist a la Mode by completing potion recipe’s components, smashing vials to get more cards in your hand or to deny your opponents those super valuable crystals! Ten crystals gets you the Philosopher’s Stone, which wins you the game and grants you powers beyond explanation in the next game (well, there is a card that explains them…). How does Potion Panic rate on our Fun scale? How does is rate on our Couch Score (how likely it is for Michael to wind up sleeping on the couch due to the game?)

We also taste a 100% blueberry wine from Three Lakes Winery in Wisconsin. Made from whole ripe blueberries, this isn’t a “blueberry flavored wine beverage” but the real thing!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

Welcome to another episode of Meeples and Wine! This time we’ll be discussing Fallout: The Board Game while drinking Do Epic Shit – 2021 Red Wine Blend from Browne Family Vineyards.

The wine is a full-bodied Paso Robles Red Blend with notes of raspberry, cherry, black pepper, and dark chocolate. It pairs well with bold foods.

Fallout: The Board Game is a post-nuclear adventure board game for one to four players. Players take on the role of survivors in a wasteland and explore, fight enemies, complete quests, and build their skills. The game is won by whoever comes out ahead by venturing through the game and gaining influence. However, if a single faction is empowered too quickly, everyone loses.

The game includes action points, area movement, dice rolling, hand management, modular board, and narrative choice/paragraph mechanics.

The podcast episode also talks about Don’t Starve: The Board Game on Kickstarter and ends with the hosts’ contact information and new trivia night.

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Board Games, Wine Tasting, and Midwest Gaming Classic Adventures

In this episode of Meeples and Wine, hosts Michael and Suzy return after a brief hiatus to share news of their appearance at the Midwest Gaming Classic 2024 in Milwaukee. They reminisce about their past experience at the event, interview highlights, and announce their plans for game demos, reviews, and more on the Meeples and Wine Tabletop stage. Following the event news, they dive into a wine tasting session featuring 19 Crimes Martha’s Chard from California, discussing its characteristics, pairing options, and their personal tasting notes. The episode shifts to a detailed review of RoboRally 2023, comparing it with previous editions, discussing its gameplay mechanics, and debating its impact on relationships. Lastly, they introduce an upcoming Kickstarter project, River Valley Glassworks, noting its cute premise and potential gameplay allure.

00:00 Welcome to Meeples and Wine: Midwest Gaming Classic Announcement
01:25 Tasting 19 Crimes Martha’s Chard: A Wine Review
04:54 Diving Into RoboRally 2023: Gameplay and Comparison
17:55 Diving Deep into Game Mechanics
23:22 Exploring Game Upgrades and Strategy
33:57 Wrapping Up with Final Thoughts and Future Plans

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

In this episode of Meeples and Wine, Michael dives into board games suitable for single players or those with one-player variants. He reviews Arkham Horror: Final Hour, discussing the strategy, mechanics, and overall gameplay. Michael also samples a blueberry, cinnamon and maple syrup ale from North Carolina’s Heist Brewery named ‘breakfast junkie,’ giving a detailed review of its flavor profile. The show also mentions its sponsor, Manscaped, and provides information on how listeners can connect with the Meeples and Wine team online. Towards the end, Michael shares his findings on Game Found, an alternative to Kickstarter, showcasing a rabbit-themed board game named ‘Bunny Boom.’

Arkham Horror: Final Hour and Breakfast Junkie Fruited Berliner Weiss Style Ale
00:13 Introduction and Beer Review
04:26 #Sponsor Break: Manscaped Get 20% off and free shipping when you use “MeeplesandWine” at checkout!
06:43 Arkham Horror: Final Hour Game Review
18:10 Gameplay Mechanics and Strategies
21:26 Personal Experience and Game Review
30:08 Exploring New Games and Final Thoughts

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Title: Reviewing “The Rocketeer” – A Perfect Pairing with A Glass of Chardonnay

Hello everybody and welcome to the world of board games and fine wine, where every roll of the dice pairs perfectly with every sip of a good vintage. Today, we’re going to delve into the world of “The Rocketeer: Fate of the Future” board game while savoring a glass of the 2021 vintage Chardonnay from Bread and Butter Winery.

The link above is an Amazon Affiliate link, and we will earn a commission if you click it and purchase!

Now, if you’re wondering about “The Rocketeer”, it is based off a movie (which in turn was based on a comic book) about a guy named Cliff Secord who stumbled upon a jet pack and his life flipped upside down. This game has an enjoyable theme, engaging gameplay and a variety of interesting game mechanics which will keep you hooked.

It is designed by Prospero Hall (also Brian Kirk), who has previously contributed to other iconic games like Back to the Future: Back in Time and Bob Ross: Art of Chill. The game enjoys beautiful art by Henning Ludvigsen that keeps you engaged visually as you steer your way through stealing the plans from the heroes or keeping them safe from the villains before the zeppelin arrives.

Let’s shift gears and talk about the wine we paired with “The Rocketeer” – the 2021 vintage Chardonnay from Bread and Butter Winery. This Californian beauty with a golden straw hue has a distinctive Chardonnay aroma – a mix of buttery grapes with subtle hints of peaches and apples.

Upon sipping, you would notice a creamy texture with a balance of acidity and an oaky finish that lingers pleasantly in your mouth. However, letting the wine breathe is crucial to truly unlock its flavors. There is a marked richness that is not overly intense, making it perfect for a relaxed evening of board gaming.

In conclusion, “The Rocketeer” is a delightful board game that delivers on 1930’s intrigue, tug of war strategy, and beautiful art. Paired with the Bread and Butter’s Chardonnay, it makes for an ideal game night with your significant other or a group of friends.

So, why not treat yourself to a new experience? Get your hands on “The Rocketeer” and a good-quality Chardonnay, and dive into an evening of strategic fun and good vibes. With all these ingredients at hand, you’re sure to have a memorable night!

0:00 The Rocketeer
00:13 Introduction
01:29 Wine Review: Bread and Butter 2021

05:04 #Sponsored #ad Spotlight: Manscaped – Use our promo code “MeeplesandWine” for 20% off and free shipping!

20:50 Diving into the Game Mechanics of The Rocketeer: Fate of the Future
26:13 Strategies and Challenges
29:22 Final Thoughts and Review

Solo Game Exploration and Beer Tasting: ‘Onirim’ and Two Brothers Imperial Stout

Introduction

This week I’m reviewing Onirim, a solo/cooperative card game where you navigate a mysterious labyrinth as a dreamwalker. You must escape before your dream time runs out by finding the eight oneiric doors.

Gameplay

Onirim is a set collection and deck-building game. You have a hand of five cards and must match sets of three to unlock doors. However, there are challenges:

• Sun and Moon cards: You can’t play a sun next to a moon or the same icon twice in a row.
• Key cards: Discarding a key allows you to unlock a door but reduces your chances for others.
• Nightmare cards: These force you to discard cards or sacrifice resources to avoid waking from the dream.

Expansions

The second edition comes with seven expansions in the box, adding new mechanics and challenges like manipulating the deck, time bombs, and unreliable allies.

Overall Impressions

I enjoyed Onirim but found it slightly frustrating due to not having resources near the end of the game. I rate it 7.5 out of 10. I picked this one up at Dane’s Games in Geneva, IL.

Additional Notes

• The episode also features a beer review of Two Brothers Northwind Imperial Cherry and a Kickstarter spotlight on “Dungeon Twist” game.

0:00 Onirim and Two Brothers Cherry Northwind
00:13 Introduction and Beer Review
05:42 Sponsor Break: Manscaped
07:42 Game Review: Onirim
16:53 Kickstarter Spotlight and Conclusion

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

In this episode of ‘Meeples and Wine’, hosts Michael and Suzy kick off the New Year by reviewing board game ‘Tiny Epic Dungeons’. The couple highlight the high replayability, short playtime, and high strategy of the game, despite its challenging learning curve. Michael and Suzy also mention a Kickstarter game they found interesting, ‘The Last Lighthouse’. They celebrate the return of their podcast after a hiatus and introduce their new sponsor, Manscaped. The hosts also enjoy Apothic Red wine, describing it as a good everyday wine to have on hand for casual meals like burgers and pizza.

Please give our sponsor a visit at https://www.manscaped.com/ and don’t forget to use the code meeplesandwine to get 20% off and free shipping!

0:00 Intros
01:26 Apothic Red Blend Tasting
05:09 Manscaped Promo
10:54 Game Review – Tiny Epic Dungeons
29:17 Final Sip – Apothic Red Blend
30:24 Last Call – Kickstarter Finds
44:05 End of show – Closing

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

If you’d like to support the show in Value4Value you can do it here! https://getalby.com/p/meeplesandwine

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Meeples and Wine: Exploring Bluffing Mechanics and the Board Game ‘Chameleon’

Introduction:
Welcome to Meeples and Wine, Now Pod Pomo 2023! Michael is going to dive into bluffing games and explore one particular game that has captured the attention of many tabletop enthusiasts – Chameleon. But before we get into the gameplay, let’s introduce Meeples and Wine, our original podcast where my wife Susie and I, Michael, review board and tabletop games for couples. We not only analyze how well they play with two players, but also determine their level of excitement, complexity, and even their potential impact on relationships. Join us as we embark on this gaming adventure!

Bluffing Games vs. Social Deduction Games:
You might be wondering, what exactly is the difference between bluffing games and social deduction games? In social deduction games, players strive to conceal their true identities. Whether you are a murderer or a werewolf, your goal is to mislead others and divert attention away from your true intentions. This usually involves lying and twisting the truth in order to convince others that you are not the villain. On the other hand, bluffing games involve elaborating on your beliefs and confidently bluffing about the truth. One popular example is Balderdash, where players must bluff their way through defining words. The objective is to convince the group that your definition is correct, even if it isn’t.

Let’s Talk Chameleon:
Today, we are going to focus on one specific bluffing game called Chameleon. In this game, one player takes on the role of the chameleon, while the other players try to figure out who it is. Designed for four to six players, Chameleon brings a unique twist to the world of bluffing games. The objective for the non-chameleon players is to unmask the chameleon without revealing the secret word. Meanwhile, the chameleon aims to blend in with the others, avoid detection, and correctly guess the secret word.

Gameplay Mechanics:
To set up the game, players are assigned code cards that determine their identity. The chameleon receives a blue chameleon card, while the others receive different code cards that feature dice notations. The dice rolls dictate the code for each player, adding an element of randomness and excitement to the game. The dealer then reveals a topic card, such as “bread,” and all players, except the chameleon, must select a word that corresponds to the topic.

Blending In and Providing Clues:
The non-chameleon players now examine their code cards to determine the secret word. The chameleon, without knowing the secret word, must pretend to be part of the group and provide clues that align with the word. Round after round, players take turns offering clues related to the secret word, while the chameleon strategically tries to blend in. For example, if the secret word is “bread,” a non-chameleon player might say “yeast” as a clue, which is directly linked to bread-making. The chameleon must think quickly and provide clues that match the secret word without giving away their lack of knowledge.

Voting and Revealing the Chameleon:
Once all players have given their clues, it’s time to vote. Players discuss and vote for the player they suspect is the chameleon. The player with the most votes reveals their code card. If it’s the chameleon card, the chameleon gets one last chance to guess the secret word correctly and escape capture. The game continues with the previous chameleon becoming the dealer, and a new chameleon card is introduced.

Chameleon is a thrilling and engaging bluffing game that guarantees hours of fun for friends and family. It requires strategic thinking, quick wit, and the ability to maintain a straight face. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, those who enjoy the challenge of bluffing and deducing their opponents’ intentions will find Chameleon to be an excellent addition to their gaming collection. So gather your friends, put on your best poker face, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the world of bluffing and deception!

00:01 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:01 Podcast Struggles and Future Plans
01:24 Understanding Bluffing Mechanics in Tabletop Games
01:50 Bluffing vs Social Deduction Games
02:53 Exploring the Game ‘Chameleon’
04:18 Gameplay and Strategy of ‘Chameleon’
06:09 Final Thoughts and Future Content Teaser

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Exploring ‘Take That’ Games and Related Mechanics: From Munchkin to UNO Flip

In this episode of ‘Meeples and Wine’, Michael explores the popular board and tabletop game mechanic known as ‘Take That’ or ‘Screw Your Neighbor”. They discuss games including ‘Munchkin’, ‘Flux’, ‘Kittens in a Blender’, and ‘UNO’, with a specific focus on ‘UNO Flip’. These games involve players using cards or actions to harm their opponents, often leading to strategic moves and exciting gameplay. The hosts also highlight some of their own experiences with these games, how the rules keep changing, the level of strategy involved, and how different players may respond to such mechanics.

00:10 Introduction to Meeples and Wine Podcast
00:50 How to Connect with Us
01:13 Introduction to ‘Take That’ Games
01:48 Exploring Munchkin: A ‘Take That’ Game
03:21 Diving into Flux: A Game of Changing Rules
06:50 Kittens in a Blender: A Quirky ‘Take That’ Game
07:17 UNO: The Classic ‘Take That’ Game
09:22 Customizing UNO: Creating Your Own Rules
10:11 Conclusion and Farewell

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

This week we play Azul Duel by Michael Kiesling, a two-player only version of the classic Azul, with art by Maëva da Silva! We also taste Anticiclone Tinto Red Blend, that we picked up from Costco, a nice Portuguese blend of Aragonez and Castelao.

For our Last Call we have a game with only a week left on Kickstarter, Murder on the Rocks. This Clue/Werewolf social deduction game keeps players in the game even after they have been murdered!

We have three Conniption Gin canvas bags to give away! (see image above!) Thanks to Paul out at the distillery! Just give us a call at (707) 572-5282‬ and answer this question!

What was the first and last tabletop RPG that Suzy played? Hints are: It was in 1996, it’s a fantasy/sci-fi setting and she played a Dwarf Mechanic.

The first three correct answers get the bags! Leave us a way to get in touch!

Oh, and here’s that video that Suzy was thinking about!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Simultaneous Play Games : Breakdown and Review of Space Team

In this edition of Meeples and Wine: NowPodPomo 2023, hosts Michael and Susie dive deep into the world of simultaneous play board games, highlighting its unique appeal due to its dynamic and interactive nature. The focus is on ‘Space Team’, a co-op shouting card game where players work together to repair a malfunctioning spaceship. ‘Space Team’ and its two expansions available on Stellar Factory are scrutinized, with the hosts recommending the Triangulum expansion over the NSFS (Not Safe for Space) expansion.

00:10 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:40 How to Connect with Us
01:08 Introduction to NaPodPoMo and Future Plans
02:17 Exploring Simultaneous Play
02:50 Space Team: A Simultaneous Play Game
04:14 Anomalies in Space Team
05:55 Space Team Expansions
06:52 Conclusion and Future Topics

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Title: Unveiling the Thrill: Hidden Movement Games!

Hey there, fellow gamers! Welcome to Meeples and Wine, NaPodPomo 2023. Before we dive into today’s game, let me introduce you to Meeples and Wine! I’m Michael, and together with my wife Suzy, we review board and tabletop games for couples. We see how well they play with just two players, how fun and challenging they are, and yeah, sometimes we even test if they can ruin a marriage (just kidding!). Head over to www.meeplesandwine.fun for game reviews, wine tastings, and more. Plus, you can leave us a voicemail through our SpeakPipe link – we’d love to feature your questions on the show! Alright, let’s jump into the awesome world of hidden movement games!

Hidden movement games add a whole new level of excitement to your game nights. You’ve got one (or all) players who can’t see what the others are doing, which kicks up the suspense factor big time. Picture this: you’re hunting down an elusive character while they cleverly maneuver through the game board, leaving just enough clues to keep you guessing. It’s all about strategy and outsmarting your opponents.

Now, let’s talk about some of the standout hidden movement games. First up, we have the classic Scotland Yard. It’s been around since the ’80s and is still a ton of fun. You and your friends play as detectives from Scotland Yard, going head-to-head with Mr. X, who’s roaming the streets of London using taxis, buses, and even the tube. Working together, you’ll need to connect the dots, piece together the clues, and track down Mr. X before he slips away.

For those craving a bigger challenge, check out Mister X. This game takes the Scotland Yard gameplay and moves to all of Europe! Instead of limiting the action to London, you get to embark on a thrilling chase across the entire continent. Mr. X has an arsenal of transportation options at his disposal, and it’s up to the detectives to coordinate their efforts and catch him in the act. It’s one wild ride, let me tell you!

Last but not least, there’s Clue: The Great Museum Caper. Imagine being a security guard in an art museum, desperately trying to prevent a crafty thief from pilfering precious artworks. The tension builds as paintings disappear and guards scramble to catch a glimpse of the elusive culprit. It’s a unique spin on hidden movement games, adding elements of deduction and observation to keep you on your toes.

So, grab your friends and get ready for a gaming experience like no other with hidden movement games! Scotland Yard, Mr. X, and Clue: The Great Museum Caper are just a taste of the excitement that awaits. Check out our podcast at Meeples and Wine, and remember to play fair, have fun, and may the best detective prevail! Cheers!

That’s it for today’s game mechanics. Stay tuned for more thrilling adventures in the world of tabletop gaming. Thanks for joining us on Meeples and Wine, Now Pod Pomo 2023. Happy gaming, everyone!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Push Your Luck – Unveiling the Mechanics of ‘Pass the Pigs’ & ‘Cosmic Wimp Out’

Welcome to another episode of Meeples and Wine’s NaPodPoMo 2023: 30 Days of Game Mechanics! Today Michael explores ‘press your luck’ games with attention to popular classics ‘Pass the Pigs’ and ‘Cosmic Wimp Out’. He discusses the effective use of risk and reward systems in these games and provide insights into how to play, emphasizing their appeal as highly portable and entertaining. They also encourage listeners to engage with them through their podcast site and SpeakPipe link, which is HERE.

00:09 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:06 Introduction to ‘Push Your Luck’ Games
01:37 Exploring ‘Pass the Pigs’ Game
03:14 Introduction to ‘Cosmic Wimp Out’ Game
03:59 Detailed Gameplay of ‘Cosmic Wimp Out’
06:40 Additional Features and Availability of ‘Cosmic Wimp Out’
08:31 Conclusion and Sign Off

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Discovering the World of Legacy Tabletop Games

In the episode of the Meeples Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, Michael discusses legacy tabletop games, a type of board game designed to evolve over time and multiple play sessions. The concept of legacy games is explored including how they incorporate new rules and content, creating a sense of immersion and narrative-driven gameplay. A reference game – Pandemic Legacy Season 1- is discussed in detail, illustrating the unique and engaging gameplay experience offered by legacy games. The episode also highlights the high replay factor of these games, despite their permanence, their thematic versatility, strategic complexity, and their emphasis on cooperation and teamwork.

00:09 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:50 Engaging with the Podcast
01:09 Introduction to Legacy Tabletop Games
01:27 Mechanics of Legacy Games
02:01 Impact of Player Actions in Legacy Games
02:34 Variety and Popularity of Legacy Games
03:01 Deep Dive into Pandemic Legacy Season 1
04:46 Why Legacy Games are Popular
05:58 Conclusion and Recommendation

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Exploring Storytelling in Tabletop Games on Meeples Wine NaPodPoMo 2023

In this episode of Meeples Wine NaPodPoMo 2023, this episode focuses on ‘storytelling tabletop games’, as compared to ‘story-driven games’, providing distinct examples like ‘Aye, Dark Overlord’, ‘Once Upon A Time’, and ‘Baron Munchausen’. These games prioritize creativity, teamwork, and active listening, allowing players to collaborate and improvise to build a story. These games offer important benefits such as encouraging creativity, improving communication, promoting teamwork and building bonds. They are believed to be especially beneficial for children, aiding in their development while providing a creative outlet.

0:00 Storytelling Games
00:09 Introduction
01:06 Introduction to Storytelling Tabletop Games
03:04 Exploring ‘Aye, Dark Overlord’
05:41 Unveiling ‘Once Upon a Time’
07:38 Discovering ‘Baron Munchausen’
09:28 Benefits of Storytelling Games
10:36 Conclusion and Recommendations

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

In this episode of the Meeples and Wine NaPodPoMo 2023 , Michael talks about various options for escape room and murder mystery tabletop games. He starts by reviewing the concept of escape room games and then goes on to discuss different versions such as Exit the Game by Cosmos, Unlock from Space Cowboys, Hunt a Killer, and Mysterious Package Company.

0:00 Escape Rooms

01:08 Introduction to Escape Room Tabletop Games

03:06 Marker Exit by Kosmos Games

04:35 Marker Review of ‘Unlock’ Series

06:06 Marker Review of ‘Hunt a Killer’ Games

07:51 Marker Review of ‘Mysterious Package Company’ Games

11:13 Conclusion and Contact Information

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Exploring Engine Building Games: From Terraforming Mars to Magic Gathering

In this episode of our NaPodPoMo 2023 run, Michael discusses the concept of engine building in board and tabletop games. Highlighting the buzz that comes from creating efficient, interconnected systems in various games like ‘Terraforming Mars’ and ‘Magic: The Gathering.’ Engine building isn’t genre-specific, we underline its presence in resource management, card drafting, and worker placement games.

00:13 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:53 Engaging with the Podcast
01:12 Introduction to Engine Building Games
01:51 Understanding Engine Building with Terraforming Mars
02:24 The Appeal of Engine Building Games
02:49 Engine Building in Different Game Genres
03:31 Engine Building in Magic: The Gathering
04:05 Variety in Engine Building Mechanics
04:40 Appreciating the Design of Engine Building Games
05:02 Conclusion and Look Ahead

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Board Games Review: Exploring Set Collection Games with a Focus on ‘Point Salad’

In this episode of ‘Meeples Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023’, Michael reviews set collection board games with focus on the game ‘Point Salad’, launched by AEG in 2019, involves players using 108 double-sided veggie and point cards to amass points through specific vegetable collections. He discusses the complexity of the game, the strategy of selecting cards, and the gameplay mechanics.

00:12 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:13 Introduction to Set Collection Games
02:23 Exploring the Game: Point Salad
03:50 Gameplay and Strategy of Point Salad
06:43 Final Thoughts and Review of Point Salad
07:27 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

Exploring Board Games Mechanics: Auction and Bidding Games

In this podcast episode of ‘Meeples Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023’, Michael reviews two different board games featuring bidding mechanics: ‘Shipwrecked’ and ‘Power Grid’. ‘Shipwrecked’ is a blind bidding game where players compete for survival resources using a unique bidding system, with the possibility of strategic plays using different types of bid cards. ‘Power Grid’, on the other hand, allows players to bid openly for resources, power plants and cities necessary for expanding their power grid, providing insights into more conventional bidding mechanics. He gets into monitoring resources, understanding strategy, anticipating opponents’ actions, and managing bids wisely as key considerations for success in these games.

00:13 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:09 Introduction to Auction and Bidding Games
02:15 Exploring the Game ‘Shipwrecked’
04:16 Artwork and Components of ‘Shipwrecked’
05:26 Gameplay Strategy and Rules of ‘Shipwrecked’
06:27 Introduction to the Game ‘Power Grid’
06:42 Bidding Phase and Strategy in ‘Power Grid’
09:22 Conclusion and Preview of Next Episode

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Welcome to Meeples and Wine Na Pod Pomo 2023, hosted by Michael and Suzy, where they review board and tabletop games for couples. They explore how well games play with two players, their fun factor, complexity, and whether they might “destroy the marriage.” Each episode also includes a thematic wine, beer, or drink tasting to accompany the game.

In this episode, Michael delves into the world of paper and pencil games, highlighting grid coverage, enclosure games, and line drawing as different styles within this category.

The featured game of the day is “Cartographers: A Roleplayer Tale” by Thunderworks Games. In this game, you become a cartographer in the service of Queen Gimnax, tasked with mapping the Northern lands and increasing your reputation by meeting the Queen’s demands. The game involves edict cards that determine how you score, explore cards that dictate what you draw on your map, and the challenge of dealing with raids by your opponents. It’s a fun and engaging game that combines strategy, Tetris-like piece placement, and clever scoring mechanisms. Don’t miss out on this exciting gaming experience, and be sure to check the show notes for relevant links. Happy gaming!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

This episode Michael and Suzy spend their Easter afternoon playing Ruse Game’s recent release Bunny Boom, fresh out of their crowdfunding on Gamefound! Your quiet village is being overrun by hordes of soft and cuddly rabbits and you work to push as many as you can to your opponent’s board! Lay your cards down on the board to build the village, matching suits to close out the space so no more cards can be played, or don’t match suits to play that card that may win you the game, but you’ll get more bunnies as a penalty! Force your opponent to take the carrot, which adds more bunnies, and you can use the burrow and the fox to add even more buns! The one with the least bunnies wins!

We also taste a traditional Easter brunch cocktail, the mimosa, but with a twist! From Coffee and Champaign, it’s the French 75 Mimosa. With a dash of lemon juice and citrus simple syrup, along with gin this is a delicious alternative to your standard sparkling wine and orange juice. We used Conniption American Dry gin with this one, after tasting it at the local store (Thanks Paul!) it’s citrus rind and spicy nose complemented the drink nicely!

The Final Call for the week is Cleaning Service – Print and Play!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Social Deduction: A Look at the Games that Keep Us Guessing

Welcome back to Meeples and Wine, NaPodPoMo 2023 edition! Today, we’re diving into the world of social deduction games, exploring why they’ve become so popular and highlighting two of our favorites: One Night: Ultimate Werewolf and The Thing: The Boardgame.

Social deduction games have increased in popularity and for good reason. They offer a unique blend of role playing, bluffing, and a touch of chaos that’s sure to keep everyone on the edge of their seats. In these games, players are secretly assigned roles, some good, some neutral, and some bad. The good guys need to work together to identify and eliminate the bad guys, the neutral players decide who they’re going to back, while the bad guys strive to sow discord and achieve their own nefarious goals. The beauty of social deduction games lies in the uncertainty. You never know who to trust, and every accusation, every move, could be a ploy to deceive. This constant state of suspicion and second-guessing is what keeps players hooked, coming back for more every time.

One Night: Ultimate Werewolf

One Night: Ultimate Werewolf is a fast-paced, easy-to-learn social deduction game that’s perfect for a quick game night or as an introduction to the genre. Players take on roles like Werewolves, Villagers, Seer, and the Drunk, and more, each with their own special abilities. The game plays over a single night, with players taking turns waking up and performing actions with the assistance of either a game master or by using the handy app that you can download. As the night progresses, the Werewolves try to stay hidden from the Villagers, while the Villagers try to identify and eliminate the Werewolves. One Night: Ultimate Werewolf is a fantastic choice for groups of all sizes, from small gatherings to larger parties. It’s quick, chaotic, and always entertaining.

The Thing: The Boardgame

If you’re looking for a more immersive, thematic social deduction experience, The Thing: The Boardgame is the perfect choice. Based on the classic John Carpenter film, The Thing, this game captures the paranoia and suspense of the movie in a solid tabletop experience. Players take on the roles of the researchers stationed in an Antarctic research base, so you’ve got Macready, Nauls, Windows and the rest of the team from the movie. Among them is the Thing, an alien shapeshifter that can perfectly imitate any human. The Thing’s goal is to eliminate the researchers and escape the base, while the researchers must identify and eliminate the Thing before it’s too late. The Thing: The Boardgame is a tense, atmospheric experience that will keep you guessing until the very end. It’s a must-play for fans of the movie and social deduction games alike.

Social Deduction Recommendations

Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the genre, there’s a game out there for you. Here are a few more recommendations to get you started:

• The Resistance (Avalon Hill): A classic hidden role game of deception and intrigue.
• Coup (Indie Boards and Cards): A fast-paced, card-based game of bluffing and deduction.
• Blood on the Clocktower (The Pandemonium Institute): An in-depth game with multiple roles which can play up to 20!

So gather your friends, grab a glass of wine, and dive into the world of social deduction games. You’re in for a night of suspense, deception, and fun!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

In episode five of Meeples and Wine NaPodPoMo 2023, Michael discusses cooperative (co-op) tabletop games, where players work together to achieve a common goal. These games foster teamwork and camaraderie. Common themes include a shared win condition, communication among players, and unique abilities available to the players. Time or turn limits often add pressure. Some examples of co-op games discussed are Pandemic by Z-Man Games, a game about stopping global diseases, and Forbidden Island, where players collect treasures from a sinking island. The episode also covers The Crew, a challenge-based card game. The hosts stress the importance of communication, flexibility, and mutual help in co-op games, and encourage viewers to check out these games and their reviews on their website: www.meeplesandwine.fun.

In this episode Mike mentions the review of Forbidden Island from the main show Meeples and Wine, you can find that at the link HERE or you can copy the link! www.meeplesandwine.fun/forbiddendesert

You can follow us on your favorite podcast apps here! www.meeplesandwine.fun/subscribe-to-podcast

00:08 Introduction to Meeples and Wine NaPodPoMo 2023 Hello everyone and welcome to meeples and wine NaPodPoMo 2023….

00:55 Understanding Cooperative Tabletop Games Cooperative tabletop games are games in which the players work together to achieve a common goal rather than competing against each other….

01:18 Common Rules in Co-op Tabletop Games Alright, so some common rules that wind up in co op tabletop games….

02:43 Exploring Pandemic: A Co-op Tabletop Game So some examples of co op tabletop games, the one big one is pandemic….

05:26 Diving into Forbidden Island: A Co-op Adventure Forbidden Island is the first of multiple games….

07:39 The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine

09:25 Strategies for Winning Co-op Games So some strategy, communication is the key for co op games….

10:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts So if you’re looking for a new type of game to try, I highly recommend checking out some co op games….

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Episode Four: Exploring Area Control Games

This episode covers area control games, a genre of board games wherein players compete to conquer different areas on the board through various methods like moving units, establishing settlements, or using influence markers. The focus is on strategic growth and defending territories which makes the genre appealing but often complex. Michael introduces a few game versions such as Risk, El Grande, Twilight Imperium, and Kemet, each representing different levels of complexity and length of game play. He also provides gameplay strategies, emphasizing the importance of not stretching resources too wildly, considering value points on the board, diplomacy and acquiring alliances, as well as being proactive in launching attacks.

00:14 Introduction to the Episode

00:35 About Meeples and Wine

01:11 Understanding Area Control Games

02:08 Exploring El Grande

03:28 Diving into Twilight Imperium

06:00 Discovering Kemet

07:50 Strategy Tips for Area Control Games

09:30 Conclusion and Preview of Next Episode

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Today we are talking about tile-laying games. Tile-laying games are a type of board game where players build the board by placing tiles on it. This can be done to create a city, a farm, a forest, or any other kind of landscape or scene.

• Look for scoring opportunities. When placing your tiles, try to think about how you can score points in multiple ways. For example, if you are placing a tile that completes a road, also see if it can help you complete a city or monastery.
• Be aware of your opponents’ strategies. Try to anticipate what your opponents are trying to do and block them from completing their goals. For example, if you see that your opponent is close to completing a long road, try to place a tile that will prevent them from doing so.
• Don’t be afraid to adapt. As the game progresses, the board will change and you may need to adapt your strategy. Be willing to change your plans if necessary.

Here are some additional tips for the three specific games mentioned in the podcast:

• Carcassonne: Try to save your meeples for the later stages of the game, when there are more opportunities to score points. Also, don’t forget to consider the placement of your meeples when placing your tiles.
• Azul: Try to plan ahead and think about how you can complete multiple patterns with a single tile placement. Also, be aware of the different scoring conditions for each pattern.
• Kingdomino: Try to draft tiles that have a variety of features. This will give you more flexibility when placing your tiles and make it more difficult for your opponents to block you. Also, don’t forget to consider the placement of your castles when drafting tiles.

Hey everybody, and welcome to NaPodPoMo day two! Today we’re talking about worker placement games.

Worker placement games are known for their strategic depth and replayability. With so many different options available, players must carefully weigh the pros and cons of each action before making a decision. Worker placement games can also be very competitive, as players must try to outmaneuver their opponents in order to get the best resources and spaces.

Here are a few beginner-friendly worker placement games:

• Stone Age
• Champions of Midgard
• Nusfjord
• Wingspan

Here are a few tips for playing worker placement games:

• Claim key spaces early. The best spaces on the board are often the ones that give you the most resources or allow you to perform the most powerful actions. Try to claim these spaces early in the game so that you can benefit from them throughout the game.
• Be flexible. Don’t be afraid to change your strategy if you need to. If you see that an opponent is taking a certain strategy, try to find a way to counter it.
• Don’t overextend yourself. Focus on one or two strategies and stick with them. Trying to do too much will only spread you too thin and make it difficult to win.
• Block other players. If you see that an opponent is about to take a space that you need, don’t be afraid to block them. It’s a dog-eat-dog world out there!

With a little practice, you’ll be a worker placement master in no time!

Deck Building Games, sometimes known as Card Drafting, is a game mechanic where players take turns selecting cards from a common pool. The cards that are available change each round, as players take cards and pass the remaining cards to the next player. This creates a dynamic and interactive game experience, as players must carefully consider their own picks and how they can deny their opponents the cards they want.

Simple strategy for card drafting games

• Pick the cards that are most valuable to you. This may mean picking cards that give you immediate points, cards that help you build your engine, or cards that synergize with other cards in your hand.
• Be aware of what other players are picking. Try to anticipate what cards your opponents need and pick those cards first, if possible. This will deny them the cards they need to win and give you a leg up in the game.
• Don’t be afraid to change your strategy. As the draft progresses, the cards that are available will change. Be willing to adapt your strategy based on what cards are left in the pool and what cards your opponents have picked.

Here are some additional tips for card drafting games:

• Pay attention to the order of the draft. If you’re picking later in the draft, you may have to be more flexible with your picks.
• Don’t be afraid to hate draft. Sometimes, the best card to pick is the card that your opponent needs the most. This can be a great way to deny them the cards they need to win.
• Have fun! Card drafting games are a great way to interact with your opponents and make strategic decisions.

Here are some of the most popular deck-building games:

• Dominion
• Star Realms
• Ascension: Chronicle of the Godslayer
• Aeon’s End
• Clank!
• Legendary: A Marvel Deck Building Game
• Paperback
• Trains
• Automobiles
• Shards of Infinity

#NaPodPoMo #carddrafting #boardgames #strategy

We’d love to have you follow our main show Meeples and Wine, where we review board games for couples, rated on how fun they are and how likely it is for Michael to wind up on the couch! Head to https://www.meeplesandwine.fun/subscribe-to-podcast and you’ll get all our shows delivered to your podcast app!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Join Michael for a spine-chilling solo episode as he dives into the one-player tabletop thriller, Final Girl, with the Organism/Station 2891 expansion from Van Ryder Games. But that’s not all – we’ve got a special treat in store as we review the Revenge of the Final Girl pale ale to wash down the tension. Grab yourself a flamethrower and a drink and let’s get started!

He’s playing Final Girl the single player horror movie themed game, with the Organism/ Station 2891 Feature Film box, which has a John Carpenter’s The Thing theme. With the Final Girl starter set and your choice of the many, many choices of Feature Films (everything from The Happy Trails Horror (Friday the 13th) to Into the Void (ALIENS!) and even a Christmas themed one!

What are we tasting? Why it’s Revenge of the Final Girl from More Brewing Company in Huntley, Illinois. With a flavor of pineapple, lime and habanero, this American Pale Ale stabs your thirst right in the throat!

Remember that we’ll also be at Up North Ale House in Naperville, IL hosting trivia every Wednesday from 7 – 8:30PM!

We’ll be out at Lodge Con this weekend at the Will County Fairgrounds (710 S West St Peotone, IL 60468)! We’ll be doing a “how to taste wine” lesson, review a game and do a Q&A for our seminar at 4!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Heading in for the haunting season we have our first on show mixed drink and get into the world of cocktails with “The Gargoyle.” This classic 1920s drink takes center stage as we uncover the history of the Gargoyle Club, a legendary haunt for bohemian aristocrats and socialites founded by David Tennant. We discuss the picture of this iconic club’s ambiance and its transformation over the years, including its famous elevator and notable visitors, from Fred Astaire to Nick Cave. We also discuss the interesting history of the Gargoyle Club, emphasizing its significance in the 1920s social scene and it’s place in recent history.

In this episode, we dove into the world of Disney’s Gargoyles Awakening board game, and it was quite the adventure. Gargoyles fans from the ’90s will appreciate the nostalgic trip back to New York with Goliath and the gang. The game had a good balance of strategy and action, although it could get a bit frustrating at times, especially when playing with just two players. The villains, particularly Demona, seemed a bit overpowered, making our battles challenging. We tried various strategies, like doubling up on characters, but it was still tough. The game’s components, including the detailed plastic figurines and the 3D buildings, added to the immersion. However, the board felt a bit cramped, and the rules could have been clearer. Overall, it’s a fun game, but it’s best enjoyed with more players to balance the action. We gave it a rating of 6.5 out of 10 and concluded that it’s worth a try for Gargoyles fans, even though it may have a few rough edges.

For our Last Call, Suzy has found a captivating mystery game called “The Great Tea Robbery,” which offers an immersive mystery adventure. This game features unique components like tea, porcelain bowls and cups, and a wooden box filled with intriguing ephemera. Players will unravel the mystery while retracing Robert Fortune’s journey through China, adding a historical and thrilling twist to the gameplay. It’s a high-quality experience with plenty of replayability, making it worth the investment.

Next, Michael discusses “Faceless Amusement Park,” a game that takes an eerie turn as players try to reclaim stolen memories from a demon haunting the park. The game uses a unique magnetic compass mechanism to control elements on the board. While the concept and visuals are appealing, we’re uncertain about how well the magnet feature functions in gameplay. He also mentions a related game, “Faceless,” with a similar magnetic mechanism. Overall, it’s an intriguing game with some mysteries of its own.

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Hello there married (or in a relationship) gamers! This week we’re diving into the fantastical world of the Dragonrealm card/dice game by Gamewright. Join me, Michael, and my wonderful wife Suzy as we gather our adventurers play our enhancements, fight our way through goblins and landslides as we claim our territories in this card and dice game.

But that’s not all! As we explore the Dragonrealms, we’re sipping on Dragon’s Milk Tales of Gold beer, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to our gaming experience. (at least for Michael…) If you’re a married/relationship-enabled tabletop gamer couple looking for exciting games to enjoy together, along with some delightful wine or beer, this episode is tailor-made for you. Tune in for the perfect blend of gaming and relaxation.

This week’s Kickstarter finds! Suzanne has found Dark Tomb: Bloodthorn Island a dungeon crawler game that fits in your pocket, and it’s got a ship!

Michael has found the game of Flock Together, a city building survival game where you work with your fellow feathered friends to save all chickenkind!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

This episode Michael and Suzanne dive into the dark and mysterious London district of the two-player board game with “Mr. Jack.” Join us as we unravel the mystery in this strategic duel of wits. Will it be the brilliant detective or the elusive Jack the Ripper who prevails?

But that’s not all! As we strategize over the game board, we’re sipping on the Three Fingered Jack Red Blend wine. This velvety red blend is the perfect companion to an evening of gaming and mystery-solving. Our Kickstarter finds this week are Plank! – A Dynamic Tabletop Pirate Adventure and Flash Gordon: The Board Game!

So grab your favorite board game buddy, pour a glass of Three Fingered Jack Red Blend, and join Michael and Suzanne for a fun-filled, game-packed episode of “Meeples and Wine.” It’s a delightful blend of strategy, suspense, and wine appreciation that you won’t want to miss! Cheers! 🍷🎲

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

This week we play PandaSaraus Game’s “Sea Salt & Paper” a nice relaxed set making game with some fantastic aquatic origami images with Sea Glass Winery’s Central Coast Sauvignon Blanc. Lately we’ve been playing some serious “take that” games like Smash Up, we take a 180 turn with Sea Salt & Paper, where you gather shells, octupi and other sea life to gather points to win. But be careful, if your opponent thinks they’ve got more points they can declare “Last Chance” and put all their (and your) points on the line!

We’re tasting Sea Glass winery’s Central Coast Sauvignon Blanc, a California white that keeps a citrus nose with a pear flavor, but keeps the bright acidity that New Zealand wines are known for.

Remember that if you want to get in touch, just give us a call at (707) 572-5282‬!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine or call at (707) 572-5282!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/