Play Saves the World – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode we explore the vibrant world of board game conventions through our personal experiences, what newcomers can expect, and the reasons why attending these conventions can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. From the joy of playing games with friends to the opportunity to try new games without the commitment of purchase, the conversation emphasizes the community and fun that board game conventions foster. In this conversation, Kevin and Daniel explore the enriching experience of board game conventions, discussing the concept of the 'magic circle' where players step into an alternate reality. They highlight the sense of community found at these events, the joy of shared experiences, and the increasing diversity within the gaming culture. The discussion also includes practical tips for attendees to enhance their convention experience, emphasizing the importance of connection and enjoyment in the gaming world.

Takeaways Casual gaming should be accessible to all skill levels. Games should have a low barrier to entry and quick setup. Replayability is important for maintaining interest in games. A mix of cooperative and competitive games is ideal. Games should accommodate different group sizes. Consider the time commitment for each game. Games like Telestrations generate deep laughter and connection. Incorporating themes can enhance the gaming experience. Games can be a great way to engage in community settings. The joy of gaming often comes from the shared experience rather than competition. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Casual Gaming Groups 01:59 Criteria for Selecting Board Games 05:27 Top 10 Board Games Overview 06:33 Game #10: Similo 08:57 Game #9: Anomia 15:19 Game #8: Quirkle 20:46 Game #7: Seven Wonders Architects 25:42 Game #6: Coup 29:14 Game #5: Codenames 36:04 Exploring Codenames: A Game of Strategy 38:23 Trio: The Joy of Simple Card Games 40:33 Secret Hitler: Deception and Strategy 44:56 Scout: A Unique Card Game Experience 47:16 Bananagrams: Fast-Paced Word Play 49:58 Telestrations: Laughter Through Drawing 54:52 Just One: Cooperative Clue-Giving 01:01:22 Honorable Mentions: Expanding the Game List

To define what play is, we have to define what work is. (This isn’t all that unusual – scholars do it with secular vs. religious, or prose vs. poetry.) Work or labor is intentional human activity to support our needs and wants, or those of others or our larger group. Work is something we do for another purpose – it is 2-eyed, 1 eye to the activity itself and 1 to its outside result (payment, food, etc.). It is a means to an end. Work isn’t inherently bad. In the Bible it is implied that humans would work the earth before the Fall. Work is not a result of original sin, but original sin corrupts work, so that the ground is cursed, and there are thorns and thistles in our gardening. We will now sweat to make the bread we must eat. In fact, work can be marvelous - a sense of purpose and contribution and accomplishment - The pleasure of your earned paycheck for your labor - The ability to form and improve our world - The freedom to engage in different kinds of work to support us - The notion of vocation, that our work might be something God calls us to do with our time and energy Work and play are not necessarily opposed to each other Sometimes the distinction is said to be productivity, but this isn’t true (e.g., work day with nothing getting done versus Minecraft) Jane McGonagal says that play is just work we enjoy Brian Sutton-Smith: the opposite of work is depression One person’s work can be another person’s play (e.g., computer programming, professional athletes, spreadsheets) Work being play would be awesome!!! But clearly work can be oppressive Some forms of work are oppressive or dangerous – factories, or gig economy with no benefits and vulnerable employment Being underpaid because your labor is set by supply and demand You might hate your job but are stuck with it because you need the money If you cannot work you will have no way to support yourself You are vulnerable to work changing, being fired, AI The instrumentalization of all things, including our time (Oliver Burkeman) When we are only a cog in the machine, when we spend our days only in service to some other goal, then everything become a means to an end, and we never get to the end itself. Such instrumentalization also generates a disturbing lack of presence. We are always lost in the future (or sometimes the past), which spiritual traditions (and psychology) tell us are often the causes of restlessness and fear: “do not worry about tomorrow” (Luke 12), Buddhism’s grounding the present Protestant work ethic A rather strange valuing of work due to Protestant ideas about grace, salvation, and human effort (since you are saved by grace alone but cannot know if you are truly among the elect who are saved, your best hope is to be a good worker in the vague hope that this indicates your salvation, but it cannot actually impact it) As a result, we come to tie our sense of self worth and value to our work, to our productivity through work – so if you fail at work you fail at life. We value others based on their wealth and work habits Martin Luther King Jr. tied the Protestant Work Ethic to racism and the exploitation of the poor (“We have deluded ourselves into believing the myth that capitalism grew and prospered out of the Protestant ethic of hard work and sacrifice. The fact is that capitalism was built on the exploitation and suffering of black slaves and continues to thrive on the exploitation of the poor—both black and white, here and abroad.”) This impacts many Western Protestant cultures where one should stay extremely busy and complain about work a lot – don’t take vacation, let work consume you because it’s inherently good to work. As a result, we can feel a profound lack of freedom, value, and agency. The truth is: work is often overwhelming. It can be good. But it cannot save us. It is not our true purpose.

Daniel and Kevin attended Geekway to the West in St. Charles, Missouri, and bring you this special episode filmed live with their 3,500 best friends. Some special guests join us, and then we share some favorite convention moments and games, along with some special announcements. CALL TO ACTION Subscribe to our newsletter (https://buttondown.email/BoardGameFaith) Support us on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/boardgamefaith/) Interact with us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/boardgamefaith/) Discord us Discord (https://discord.gg/MRqDXEJZ) Chat with us on Wavelength (iOS and MacOS and iPadOS only) (https://wavelength.app/invite/AGSmNhIYS5B#ABhy7aXOO04TO6HTS4lelw--)

Sam Macdonald of Garphill Games discusses his religious journey and board game philosophy. Sam explores the connections between board game design and religious faith, especially in the areas of community, self-expression, rules, fun, and the joy of discovery. We also take a stab at potential games based on Biblical stories. Takeaways Game design can reflect the heart of God by promoting fellowship, agency, following rules, and having fun. The Art of Discovery in games, with hidden gems and Easter eggs, can create a sense of enjoyment and excitement for players. Game design can provide opportunities for players to express themselves creatively and explore different strategies. Following rules in games and in life can lead to a more peaceful and joyful experience. The intersection of games and faith offers unique opportunities for exploration and growth. Finding new strategies and paths to victory in board games can be a fun and rewarding experience. The Bible contains hidden meanings and connections between passages that can be discovered through deep reading and study. Games can facilitate fellowship and problem-solving, providing a safe environment to solve problems and feel a sense of mastery. The art of discovery can also be found in reading scriptures, where the Holy Spirit can illuminate truth to the reader. Designing biblical-themed games can be challenging, as it's important to balance creating enjoyable experiences with conveying a message. CALL TO ACTION Subscribe to our newsletter (https://buttondown.email/BoardGameFaith) Support us on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/boardgamefaith/) Interact with us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/boardgamefaith/) Discord us Discord (https://discord.gg/MRqDXEJZ) Chat with us on Wavelength (iOS and MacOS and iPadOS only) (https://wavelength.app/invite/AGSmNhIYS5B#ABhy7aXOO04TO6HTS4lelw--)

The conversation explores the idea that faith is often associated with restrictions and limitations, but it should actually set us free. The Spirit of God works through play and games to bring about freedom. The conversation also touches on the article 'Play and Freedom, Patterns of Life and the Spirit' by Simeon Zahl, which discusses the tension between law and grace in Protestant Christianity. It highlights the need to understand the freedom that comes with the Spirit and the danger of idolizing past patterns of faith. The conversation also delves into the popular notion of destiny and how it can hinder the freedom of the Spirit. In this conversation, Daniel and Kevin discuss the concept of play and its relationship to grace and work. They explore the idea that play is an attitude and an activity that brings joy, freedom, and creativity. They emphasize the importance of play in living a meaningful life and how it can help us overcome the burden of seriousness and unrealistic expectations. They also announce a transition in the podcast to focus on the intersection of play and meaning, with the new name 'Play Saves the World.' Soundbites "What if the point of faith is to set us free for something better?" "The Spirit of God makes freedom a reality through play and games." "Is grace something that removes us from the law or empowers us to keep the law?" "The spirit is playful, meaning that it causes joy and delight." "Play is grace that expresses itself through play." "Play is the overcoming of unnecessary obstacles." Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Faith and Freedom 07:30 The Tension Between Law and Grace 13:25 The Freedom of the Spirit 27:56 The Spirit of Play and Freedom 34:17 The Unimportance of Play's Goals and Purposes 45:45 Play as an Attitude to Life Takeaways Faith should set us free rather than restrict us. The Spirit of God works through play and games to bring about freedom. There is a tension between law and grace in Protestant Christianity. Idolizing past patterns of faith can hinder the freedom of the Spirit. The popular notion of destiny can limit our understanding of the freedom of the Spirit. Play is an attitude and an activity that brings joy, freedom, and creativity. Play helps us overcome the burden of seriousness and unrealistic expectations. Play is an essential part of living a meaningful life and being fully human. The concept of play can be applied to various aspects of life, not just board games. The podcast will transition to focus on the intersection of play and human flourishing, with the new name 'Play Saves the World.'

We explore the concept of seasons in the context of board gaming and life, and discuss the origins of the phrase "this too shall pass" and its relevance to the changing nature of emotions and experiences. Daniel and Kevin share their personal gaming stages and how their approach to board games has evolved over time. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of selectivity and finding contentment in the games we already own. We discuss their evolving gaming preferences and the stages of faith. We explore the enjoyment of lighter and quicker games, the appreciation for simple solo games, and the adaptation to changing gaming preferences. We also draw parallels between stages of faith and stages of gaming, reflecting on the journey from zealousness to a holistic approach. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the continued enjoyment of games and the avoidance of jadedness. Takeaways Gaming preferences can evolve over time, with a shift towards lighter and quicker games. Simple solo games can provide a peaceful and meditative experience. Adapting to changing gaming preferences and finding enjoyment in different types of games is important. There are parallels between stages of faith and stages of gaming, with a journey from zealousness to a holistic approach. Continued enjoyment of games requires avoiding jadedness and appreciating the role of play in the larger human experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:01 The Origins of the Topic 03:02 The Concept of Seasons 04:22 The Story of "This Too Shall Pass" 06:21 The Wisdom of Ecclesiastes 09:17 Personal Gaming Stages 12:22 Discovering Board Game Geek 13:34 The Magic of Board Games 15:17 Rediscovering the Magic 24:16 Transition to Selectivity 28:02 Realizing the Need for Selectivity 30:12 Preference for Lighter and Quicker Games 30:57 Enjoyment of Simple Solo Games 33:18 Adapting to Changing Gaming Preferences 36:18 Appreciation for Game Setup and Learning 37:35 Stages of Faith and Stages of Gaming 46:15 Connecting Games to Life and Faith 49:07 Reflections on Becoming the Person You Once Judged 53:08 Continued Enjoyment of Games and Avoiding Jadedness 57:13 Upcoming Episode: Book Club and Special Announcement Daniel's stages/approaches of gaming Trusting - You just trust what others tell you (games are for kids) Zealous - You dig deep into the particular details and embrace them and defending them as world-defining. (Tell others about types of games.) Sectarian - This thing unites and defines your particular people. (You find your peeps and you celebrate what makes your group unique.) Personal - You own this thing for yourself. You question it, make it your own. (Finding your own gaming style; doesn't have to be like others.) Connecting - You see how this thing is connected to other things. It doesn't exist in a vacuum. (How do games relate to other things in life.) Holistic - This thing is just part of a larger whole. (Gaming is part of a the larger mystery of life) NEXT TIME - Book Club: Simeon Zahl Article, "Play and Freedom: Patterns of Life in the Spirit" CALL TO ACTION Subscribe to our newsletter (https://buttondown.email/BoardGameFaith) Support us on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/boardgamefaith/) Interact with us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/boardgamefaith/) Discord us Discord (https://discord.gg/MRqDXEJZ) Chat with us on Wavelength (iOS and MacOS and iPadOS only) (https://wavelength.app/invite/AGSmNhIYS5B#ABhy7aXOO04TO6HTS4lelw--)

In this episode of Board Game Faith, we discuss the topic of role play, both in games and in real life. We explore the benefits and risks of role play and dive into a video from the YouTube Channel @PeopleMakeGames about the popular role-playing game Jubensha in China, with its deep character development and commitment involved in role-playing games and share personal experiences with role play. We also highlight the power of role play in building empathy and connection with others. In this part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the social dynamics of playing Jubensha and the emotional dimensions of role-playing games. They explore the idea that playing Jubensha creates a sense of connection and intimacy among players, even with strangers. They also discuss the satisfaction of solving logic deduction puzzles and the self-discovery that can come from playing a role. The hosts delve into the topic of violence in games and the different reactions to murder versus assault. They question why murder is often seen as acceptable entertainment while other forms of violence are not. The conversation ends with a discussion on the potential marginalization of women's experiences in gaming and the need for further exploration of these topics. In this conversation, Daniel and Kevin discuss the benefits of role-playing in games and in everyday life. They explore the idea of assuming different roles and how it can lead to personal growth, catharsis, and self-understanding. They also touch on the potential threats to games, such as increasing state interference and censorship. The conversation delves into the parallels between role-playing in games and in religious life, highlighting the idea of playing our best selves and the potential for personal transformation. They also mention the use of role-playing in therapy and the positive impact it can have. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the value of role-playing and its potential for building community and personal development. Takeaways We all play different roles every day, whether it's in games or in real life. Role-playing games involve deep character development and commitment, allowing players to - explore different personas and motivations. Role play can be a powerful tool for building empathy and connection with others. The popular role-playing game Jubensha in China has gained massive popularity and has many dedicated shops. There are both benefits and risks associated with role play, and it's important to approach it with intention and awareness. Playing Jubensha creates a sense of connection and intimacy among players, even with strangers. Role-playing games provide satisfaction through solving logic deduction puzzles and self-discovery. There is a discrepancy in society's acceptance of murder as entertainment compared to other forms of violence. The marginalization of women's experiences in gaming may be reflected in the different reactions to murder versus assault. Role-playing in games and in everyday life can lead to personal growth, catharsis, and self-understanding. Increasing state interference and censorship pose threats to games and their appreciation in different parts of the world. Role-playing in religious life can help individuals play their best selves and foster personal transformation. Role-playing can be used in therapy as a therapeutic tool. Role-playing has the potential to build community and create positive social connections. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Roles We Play in Life 01:19 Welcome to Board Game Faith 12:37 Personal Experiences with Role-Playing Games 15:59 Benefits of Role-Playing Games 27:45 The Cozy Murder Genre 28:22 The Comfort of Murder 29:28 The Acceptance of Murder as Entertainment 32:12 The Role of Conflict and Risqué Elements in Fiction 33:21 The Influence of Patriarchy on the Perception of Violence 34:48 State Interference and Censorship in Role-Playing Games 36:25 The Benefits of Role-Playing in Everyday Life 40:10 The Geopolitical Implications of Role-Playing Games 41:28 The Therapeutic Potential of Role-Playing 52:09 The Role of Religion as Role-Playing 54:05 The Intersection of Gaming and Faith 55:11 Upcoming Episode: Seasons of Life and Gaming CALL TO ACTION: - Subscribe to our newsletter (https://buttondown.email/BoardGameFaith) - Support us on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/boardgamefaith/) - Interact with us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/boardgamefaith/) - Discord us Discord (https://discord.gg/MRqDXEJZ) - Chat with us on Wavelength (iOS and MacOS and iPadOS only) (https://wavelength.app/invite/AGSmNhIYS5B#ABhy7aXOO04TO6HTS4lelw--)

In this episode, Rev. Dr. Casey Sigmon, Professor of Preaching and Worship at St. Paul School of Theology, discusses the importance of play and imagination in combating burnout and enhancing preaching. She shares her background in film and theater and how it influenced her approach to worship. Casey also introduces the Pause/Play Center for Clergy Renewal, which focuses on providing rest and healing for pastors. The conversation highlights the power of well-preached sermons and the need for pastors to prioritize their own well-being, the importance of taking a leap of faith in preaching, and the connection between imagination and play. The conversation explores the resistance to play and the counter-cultural nature of play. Casey shares her favorite games, Killer Bunnies and Cards Against Humanity, and discusses shows that are not good until they're suddenly good. Takeaways Burnout is common among those in caring roles, and play can be a transformative tool to combat it. Imagination is a crucial aspect of preaching and worship, allowing for creativity and connection with the audience. The Pause/Play Center for Clergy Renewal provides a space for pastors to rest, heal, and develop new habits for preaching and pastoral care. Well-preached sermons that engage the imagination and connect with the human condition have a greater impact on listeners. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Burnout and the Power of Play 03:14 Special Episode Milestones 06:43 Guest Introduction: Casey Sigman 08:03 Casey's Background and Journey 13:14 Influence of Film and Music Videos 21:39 The Creation of the Paws Play Center 25:06 The Importance of Imagination 27:31 The Impact of Well-Preached Sermons 29:25 The Importance of Taking a Leap of Faith in Preaching 33:04 The Connection Between Imagination and Play 37:25 The Pause Play Center and Its Offerings 44:32 Resistance to Play and the Counter-Cultural Nature of Play 49:07 Why People Are Unaware of Their Need for Play 53:02 Favorite Games: Killer Bunnies and Cards Against Humanity 56:03 Shows That Are Not Good Until They're Good 57:45 How to Connect with Casey and the Pause Play Center

Oliver Burkeman's 4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals (2022) is our pick for our monthly book club. We loved how it made us think about our modern drive to master time and efficiency, and how this debilitates human happiness. Rethinking our lives and our use of time means more time for flourishing, games, and play, even if we don't get everything done (because we never will). We explore the concept of time and our relationship with it, highlighting the illusion of time management and the artificiality of modern time. We also discuss the idea of embracing our limits and the futility of trying to battle against time. Overall, the book challenges the notion that we can control time and encourages a deeper reflection on how we spend our limited time on Earth. It delves into the flawed attempts to be efficient and the instrumentalization of time in modern society. The conversation also highlights the importance of living in the present moment and the dangers of constantly living for the future. It discusses the measurement of time and how it contributes to impatience and restlessness. The conversation draws from various spiritual traditions and emphasizes the need to let go of future expectations. It explores the joy of settling and the joy of missing out, as well as the pressure to choose a path and the depth of commitment. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of focusing on the next step rather than waiting for the perfect opportunity. We emphasize the need to make time for play and challenge societal expectations that prioritize work over play. We explore the idea that play is an end in itself and can resist the Protestant work ethic. We also discuss the value of hobbies and the role of play in grounding us in the present moment. Finally, we reflect on the importance of using our time and talents well to make life more luminous for others. Takeaways Embrace the nature of time and avoid trying to make it something it's not. Beware of the dangers of efficiency as an idol and the instrumentalization of time. Learn to live in the present moment and let go of future expectations. Develop a curiosity and openness towards challenges and problems. Settle and commit to a path, finding joy in depth and commitment. Break down projects into smaller steps and focus on taking the next right step. Make time for play and challenge societal expectations that prioritize work over play. Recognize that play is an end in itself and can resist the Protestant work ethic. Engage in hobbies and embrace the value of weird and unique interests. Use your time and talents well to make life more luminous for others. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Battle with Time 03:13 Lent and Time 08:23 Animals and Time 11:27 The Illusion of Time Management 13:29 4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals 19:36 The Artificiality of Time 21:20 The Battle with Time 22:43 Embracing the Nature of Time 23:19 The Flawed Attempt of Efficiency 24:26 The Instrumentalization of Time 25:33 Living for the Future 26:37 The Present Moment 27:31 The Measurement of Time 28:38 Impatience and Restlessness 29:52 Expectations and Frustrations 30:50 Drawing from Spiritual Traditions 31:47 Letting Go of Future Expectations 32:28 The Joy of Settling 35:20 The Joy of Missing Out 36:42 The Pressure to Choose a Path 39:38 The Depth of Commitment 40:55 Focusing on the Next Step 41:47 Taking the Next Right Step 42:21 Breaking Down Projects into Smaller Steps 43:04 Making Time for Play 43:35 Play as an End in Itself 44:02 Letting Go of Societal Expectations 45:18 The Importance of Hobbies 46:16 The Present Moment in Play 47:26 Resisting the Protestant Work Ethic 48:37 The Value of AT-like Activities 49:24 Embracing Weird Hobbies 56:56 Using Time and Talents Well CALL TO ACTION: - Subscribe to our newsletter (https://buttondown.email/BoardGameFaith) - Support us on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/boardgamefaith/) - Interact with us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/boardgamefaith/) - Discord us Discord (https://discord.gg/MRqDXEJZ) - Chat with us on Wavelength (iOS and MacOS and iPadOS only) (https://wavelength.app/invite/AGSmNhIYS5B#ABhy7aXOO04TO6HTS4lelw--)