Writing about the new Street Fighter Exceed set has forced me to confront something I dread: my past writing. Nervously I searched for my original review of Exceed, fearing the idiocy of my past self. To my relief, despite some … Continued
How can I talk about Crusaders without discussing the theme? The Crusades are a deeply uncomfortable part of western history and while I’m fairly ignorant about much of that period, the combination of religious zealotry and state power seen there … Continued
I don’t know what Carl Chudyk looks like, but I picture him in mad scientist garb, cackling over card templates as he conjures up his latest game. He’s a designer who definitely has a style, and that style is dense … Continued
Just look at the box cover of Big Dig and you’ll see why I jumped on a chance to review it. That woman is so excited she’s running recklessly with a pickax. No one’s ever been that happy in a … Continued
Escape rooms are a humorous signal of prosperity. Who knew that a fad would emerge where people pay $30 each to voluntarily trap themselves in a room for an hour, simulating some kind of fantasy escape scenario? Ignoring the simulated … Continued
Antinomy is on Kickstarter for just a couple more days! It’s fitting that Antinomy grants first player privileges to the person who has most recently experienced Deja Vu, because I feel like I just played this game. Button Shy kickstarted … Continued
Look, people. I know I come across as this paragon of Aristotelian temperance, but when three people I trust tell me that a particular game might be the best 2 player game ever made, I slap that game in my … Continued
Fry Thief is on Kickstarter until 2/24. Check it out! I have never seen a game with a more relatable theme. You’re at dinner and your partner has ordered a burger and fries. In a moment of health-consciousness you got a salad. Now you’re done with your leaves and … Continued
A version of this review first appeared at Love Thy Nerd. Check it out! The cover of Pioneer Days depicts a colorful cast of eclectic characters smiling in the sun and looking like they’re having a splendid time in the great outdoors. I had the pleasure of learning quite a bit about the … Continued
As abstract game month here at The Thoughtful Gamer spills into February for a bit, I have to admit that I’ve fallen more and more in love with the abstract game aesthetic. I enjoyed it before–particularly the black and white … Continued