Operation Game Night

Join us for a Festivus celebration as we air our gaming grievances. From the overwhelming complexity of "Unconscious Mind" to the simpler joys of "Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle Earth," our chat navigates the evolution of personal gaming tastes and the importance of finding what truly brings joy to the table. With a humorous Seinfeld twist, we explore how the right group can turn even the most daunting games into a delightful experience.

Switching gears, we venture into the wild with nature-themed games and the quick escape of puzzle-solving adventures. Discover the strategic charm and educational twist of Wild Duo, a duel of wits inspired by real animal behaviors, where maneuvering whales and sea lions becomes a thrilling challenge. We also dive into the enigmatic world of "Short Adventures: Doo-aren Dungeon" from the Unlock series, perfect for those craving a compact escape room experience right at home. These games not only act as engaging fillers but also enrich our understanding of the natural world and the art of puzzle-solving.

Finally, we tackle the nitty-gritty of board game organization and industry gripes, from oversized boxes to Kickstarter frustrations. Celebrate board game heroes like Devir and Oink, who pack a punch in small packages, while we lament the outdated math trade system on Board Game Geek. Our conversation highlights the need for diversity in the industry, making room for more inclusive voices. Wrapping up, we share thoughts on the latest Dungeons and Dragons film and reminisce about the classic thrills of Jumanji, proving that whether on the board or the screen, the adventures are endless and the laughs just keep coming!

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

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Have you ever wondered what board games could keep you entertained on a deserted island? Discover our top picks for the rest of our lives as we celebrate nearing 1,000 Instagram followers and give special shoutouts. With Jared away, we still manage to hold down the fort, sharing our latest gaming experiences and exciting plans for a new logo that might just turn into fan merchandise.

Get ready to be transported to ancient Egypt with Ankh: Gods of Egypt, where we explore its intricate two-player strategies and unique action/event system. Ankh shines with its card-based conflict system and stunning miniatures. We also take a close look at the different Horrified editions, with a special nod to the Greek Monsters set, comparing its cooperative gameplay to Marvel United and discussing the replayability and thematic appeal of these games.

Debate with us as we try to choose the ideal collection of board games for a desert island scenario. From deduction games like Blood on the Clocktower to strategic card games like Lost Cities, we aim to cover every gaming itch. There's also a spotlight on under-the-radar gems like Spirits of the Wild and euro games like Merchants Cove. Whether you're a board game enthusiast or just enjoy a casual game night, this episode promises engaging insights, spirited discussions, and plenty of laughs.

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/

Show your support for the OGN Crew by contributing to the OGN War Chest:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2396881/support

This week's episode of the Operation Game Night Podcast invites you to explore the fascinating intersections of tactical gameplay and historical strategies. Join us on a sun-soaked journey from Florida, where reconnecting with an old friend led to an epic battle of wits over the strategic board game Santorini. Not only did the game revive fond memories, but it also sparked a lively discussion on god-themed player abilities that left even seasoned gamers like Clay eager to revisit this classic. 

Prepare for a thrilling exploration of Weirdwood Manor, an upcoming board game with a tantalizing time and day system that promises to keep players on their toes. Navigate rotating boards and outsmart fae monsters like Chaos Ogres, all while racing against time to save the manor. The episode doesn't stop there; it takes a detour into Middle Earth with a fresh take on 7 Wonders Duel. Get ready to vie for control in the Lord of the Rings: The Duel for Middle Earth, where strategic twists and a thematic map of Middle Earth await eager adventurers.

The excitement continues as we tackle the iconic Battlestar Galactica board game, immersing ourselves in its riveting hidden traitor mechanics and compelling narrative. From humorous personal anecdotes of mistaken Cylon identities, there's something for every board game enthusiast. As we wrap up with a playful board game pitch-off between two route building tropical-themed games, we also take a  nostalgic look at WWE's wild history, listeners are invited to share their thoughts and join us for more exciting board game adventures in future episodes.

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/

Show your support for the OGN Crew by contributing to the OGN War Chest:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2396881/support

As Travis makes his return to the Operation Game Night Podcast alongside co-host Clay Gable, the duo dives into playful conversations about board game hipster tendencies and the potential for a spinoff podcast. Clay takes us through his latest gaming escapades, particularly his thrilling yet humbling experiences with the game Ironwood. His infectious enthusiasm for the game's unique mechanics is something you won't want to miss.

Join us as we introduce "Dinner Party", a card game where history meets strategy, challenging you to recruit historical figures while mastering party arrangements. The game's web comic-style art and card flavor text add a vibrant touch, though the quirky scoring system may have you questioning your high-value character choices. Our personal gameplay anecdotes offer insights into the game's captivating thematic elements and strategic nuances, revealing why sometimes, less is more.

Fall brings a cornucopia of games to suit every mood, from Lovecraftian horrors to cozy autumn adventures. Whether it's the tension of hidden roles in "Unfathomable" or the charming simplicity of "Camp Pinetop," there's a game for everyone. We even pit Dracula against Van Helsing in a strategic showdown and explore classics like "Betrayal at House on the Hill." Our recommendations promise a blend of thrill, strategy, and cozy vibes to keep your game nights exciting throughout the season.

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/

Show your support for the OGN Crew by contributing to the OGN War Chest:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2396881/support

Join us on the latest episode of the Operation Game Night Podcast as we compare "Dwellings of Eldervale" with its refined successor, "Andromeda’s Edge." You’ll hear all about the upgraded mechanics, enhanced worker placements, and the dazzling production quality that elevate the experience. Plus, hear about Jareds recent eBay score with "Quacks of Quedlinburg" and how "That’s So Clover" became the life of the party.

Ever wondered what board games captivate the imaginations of kids today? Special guests Mason and Isaac, aged nearly 8 and 6, share their top picks, from "Marvel United" to "Ticket to Ride Jr." These young gamers offer fresh perspectives on the cooperative and action-packed elements that make these games their favorites. We also discuss the challenges and joys of gaming with children, highlighting the incredible life lessons that come from these shared experiences.

To wrap things up, we explore perfect board games for young kids, from HABA’s "My First Orchard" to "Magic Mountain." Whether you’re looking to introduce toddlers to the world of board gaming or seeking more complex games for older children, we’ve got you covered. And if you're in the mood for a gripping TV series, don’t miss our recommendation of "The Perfect Couple" on Netflix. Tune in for a lively episode packed with family-friendly tips, game reviews, and a dash of TV magic!

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/

Show your support for the OGN Crew by contributing to the OGN War Chest:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2396881/support

Ever wondered how you could turn a simple night with friends into an unforgettable game night extravaganza? Join us for a lively episode of Operation Game Night Podcast, where we kick off with an energetic celebration of Clay's birthday and his unmatched game night expertise. We sprinkle in humor by debating the size of chains, and introduce you to "Gateway Island," a fascinating game designed to teach various board game mechanisms through 21 mini-games, and thank our listeners for their invaluable feedback.

Dive into the woodland critter insurgency with Defenders of the Wild, where tactical area control meets cooperative machine-busting adventure. We'll guide you through the mechanics of the game, detailing the unique abilities of the four factions: the Order, the Council, the Coven, and the Sect. Whether you're battling machines or navigating the game's cooperative aspects, we'll share personal experiences, including the challenges of solo variants and the complexities that can lead to quick losses. This chapter is packed with insights that will help you master the game and enjoy every moment, despite its steep learning curve.

Finally, you'll hear practical tips for hosting successful game nights, whether it's choosing the right games for diverse audiences or creating theme nights to keep everyone entertained. Plus, we recount a memorable three-day game extravaganza at Clay's house, offering a blueprint for organizing your own epic game night weekend filled with board games, food, and football. This episode is your one-stop guide to making game nights legendary!

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/

Show your support for the OGN Crew by contributing to the OGN War Chest:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2396881/support

Need some board game suggestions to onboard your friends and family to the gaming hobby? Want to show them just how deep the rabbit hole can go? Join Jared, Clayton, and Travis in our latest episode as they share their top 3 gateway games. This episode is so hot we may have to pop our top off for this one!

Ever scored a board game gem for just $10? Clayton reveals his incredible finds at a sidewalk sale and swap night, including Summoner Wars, Rising Sun, and Smartphone Mobile Markets. We dive deep into the complexities of board game economics and trading strategies, including the fascinating world of math trades on Board Game Geek. Plus, get ready for a nostalgic trip back to the year 2000 with a playthrough of Reiner Knizia's Lord of the Rings, a game that was ahead of its time in the cooperative genre.

Curious about which games make the best gateway into the hobby? We've got you covered! From Catan's monumental impact to the engaging mechanics of Sushi Go and Quest for El Dorado, we explore the perfect entry points for new players. We also discuss the cooperative magic of Matt Leacock's Forbidden series and the serene yet strategic gameplay of Cascadia. To wrap things up, we share some quick hits on cultural references, personal anecdotes. Tune in for a jam-packed episode full of laughter, strategy, and gaming insights!

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/

Show your support for the OGN Crew by contributing to the OGN War Chest:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2396881/support

What happens when you combine a confidence-boosting chain, a backwards cap, and a pair of lederhosen? You get our latest episode of Operation Game Night! Jared Erickson returns from Utah retreat with tales of "Spots," a dice-rolling game that captivated everyone from groomsmen to kids. Meanwhile, Clay introduces Knarr an engine-building game he stumbled upon, which he believes could give Splendor a run for its money. .

Curious about the latest board game sensations? We've got you covered. First up, we discuss Alien: Fate of the Nostromo, perfect for those who find the Nemesis a little daunting and tough to get to the table. We then shift our gears to "Fit to Print," a frantic, time-pressured puzzle game where you construct newspapers for the woodland creatures. Originally a Kickstarter project, this game is now available in local stores and online. We dig into its mechanics and share why it's a must-have for puzzle enthusiasts and competitive players alike.

Building a strong gaming group can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle itself. We dive into the nuances of maintaining a reliable game circle, emphasizing consistency and shared responsibilities. From memorable pizza cook-off competition game nights to including partners in the fun, this episode is packed with tips and personal anecdotes. Whether you’re meeting new people at local game stores or enhancing your gatherings with creative community engagement, we provide practical advice for expanding your gaming network. Tune in, share some laughs, and get inspired to elevate your next game night!

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/

Show your support for the OGN Crew by contributing to the OGN War Chest:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2396881/support

Got the urge to collect board games at every turn? Feel a completionist mentality when faced with an onslaught of expansions for your favorite games? Ever feel the unique pressure of managing a physical board game collection? Get ready to uncover the joys and challenges on this episode of Operation Game Night. We kick things off by exploring the tangible presence and financial investment of owning board games, and how these factors shape our gaming experiences compared to digital collections. Plus, we reflect on the growth of our podcast, our vibrant community, and push through without our co-host Jared, ensuring our mission to deliver valuable insights remains strong.

We wrap up with an introspective chat about curating board game collections, from budgeting and thematic immersion to the emotional journey of acquiring and offloading games. We even stumbled upon some antique treasures that sparked a deeper conversation on the magnetic allure of publishers like Leder Games and Salt and Pepper Games, and the complexities of maintaining a collection amidst life changes. Plus, we recommend some enthralling audiobooks and a gripping documentary that explores the themes of connection and loneliness in gaming, leaving you with plenty to ponder until our next episode. Join us for a packed session full of personal stories, practical advice, and plenty of gaming passion!

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/

Show your support for the OGN Crew by contributing to the OGN War Chest:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2396881/support

What happens when you combine zany humor, international shoutouts, and a deep dive into the world of board games? You get another thrilling episode of the Operation Game Night Podcast! This week, we give a special nod to our listeners from Washington D.C. and Lucknow, India...should we consider a podcast pivot to Indian culture?!

Join us as we discuss the intricate world of board games, starting with the innovative Skyrise. Picture players building structures on floating islands and engaging in strategic bidding wars. We compare Skyrise to other classics like Ra and Foundations of Rome, emphasizing its accessible yet tactical gameplay. Moreover, we dive into our "shelf of shame"—that daunting backlog of unplayed games—and share our personal experiences with titles like Lost Ruins of Arnak and Distilled. This conversation is a celebration of our gaming journeys and the sheer joy of uncovering new favorites.

Get ready for a wide variety of recommendations as we reveal our top board game picks and the special moments they create. From the collectible charm of Disney Lorcana to the strategic brilliance of Dune Imperium and the evolving legacy of My City, we've got a thrilling lineup. We also talk about the bird-themed wonder of Wingspan and the immersive experience of Western Legends. By the end of this episode, you'll have a fresh appreciation for the tactile pleasure of game pieces, the excitement of strategic gameplay, and the unforgettable memories made around the gaming table. Whether you're a seasoned board game enthusiast or just starting your collection, this episode is packed with insights and enthusiasm you won't want to miss.

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a text with recommendations, weigh in on discussions, or just say hi!

Support the show

As always, come interact with us online, let us know if you have any feedback, and leave us a review/comment anywhere you get your favorite podcasts!

https://www.instagram.com/operation_game_night_podcast/

Show your support for the OGN Crew by contributing to the OGN War Chest:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2396881/support