Summary

The conversation at MeepleCon highlights the growth and evolution of the board gaming community in India, emphasizing the importance of conventions in fostering connections among gamers, designers, and publishers.

The speakers discuss the significance of local game design, the collaborative efforts within the community, and the infectious energy of conventions that attract new players. They also touch on the future of Indian board games and the need for more inclusive and diverse gaming experiences.

Takeaways

• MeepleCon has evolved to become a significant platform for the board gaming community in India.
• The primary goal of MeepleCon is to grow the hobby and attract non-gamers.
• Community collaboration is essential for the success of conventions.
• The energy at conventions is infectious, drawing in new players.
• Local designers are gaining recognition and showcasing their games at conventions.
• There is a growing interest in Indian titles among gamers.
• Inclusivity in gaming is crucial for building a diverse community.
• Conventions provide a space for networking and sharing ideas among designers and publishers.
• The future of board gaming in India looks promising with increasing participation.
• More conventions are needed to spread awareness and grow the gaming culture.

SummaryIn this engaging podcast, the hosts delve into the vibrant world of board gaming, exploring the journeys of prominent figures in the industry. They discuss the importance of community, content creation, and the role of platforms like BGG in making games accessible. The conversation highlights the balance between game mechanics and theme, the trends shaping the industry, and the significance of volunteering and passion in building connections. Listeners gain insights into the evolving landscape of board games and the future of game design, emphasizing the need for innovation and community involvement. In this engaging conversation, the speakers discuss their experiences at various board game conventions, comparing the unique aspects of GenCon and BGGCon. They delve into the challenges of content creation, the intricacies of game mechanics, and the importance of teaching rules effectively. The discussion highlights the vibrant gaming community in India and the optimism for its future growth. The speakers emphasize the significance of collaboration and interaction within the gaming community, sharing insights on content creation and the joy of bringing people together through games.

Takeaways

• The board game community thrives on passion and engagement.
• Volunteering at conventions can lead to valuable connections.
• Content creation is essential for sharing the love of board games.
• BGG plays a critical role in the accessibility of board games.
• Innovative game design often stems from understanding both good and bad games.
• Community-driven conventions foster deeper connections among gamers.
• The balance between mechanics and theme is crucial in game design.
• Trends in the industry show a shift towards smaller, faster games.
• Aspiring designers should research existing games to avoid redundancy.
• The future of board games relies on community involvement and innovation.
• Conventions offer unique experiences and challenges.
• GenCon and BGGCon have distinct differences in structure and focus.
• Content creation in gaming is challenging but rewarding.
• Teaching game rules effectively is crucial for player engagement.
• Hidden traitor games are a popular yet underused mechanic.
• Community plays a vital role in the board gaming culture.
• The future of board gaming in India looks promising.
• Optimism for the growth of gaming communities is high.
• Collaboration among content creators enhances the gaming experience.
• Authenticity and interaction are key in content creation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Gaming Gurus

02:26 The Journey into Board Gaming

05:25 Content Creation and Community Engagement

08:10 The Role of BGG in the Gaming Community

10:57 Volunteering and Building Community

13:43 The Importance of Passion in Gaming

16:46 Navigating the Board Game Industry

19:19 Trends in Board Game Design

21:39 The Balance of Mechanics and Theme

24:22 The Future of Board Games

27:07 Conventions and Community Events

30:05 The Impact of BGG on Game Accessibility

32:44 The Evolution of Game Mechanics

35:22 Designing Innovative Board Games

38:16 Advice for Aspiring Game Designers

41:03 The Role of Community in Game Development

43:52 Final Thoughts and Reflections

54:06 Conventions and Their Unique Experiences

57:04 Comparing Conventions: GenCon vs. BGGCon

59:46 The Challenges of Content Creation

01:04:19 Hidden Traitor Games and Game Mechanics

01:08:46 Teaching Rules and Learning Styles

01:12:08 The Importance of Community in Gaming

01:15:49 The Future of Board Gaming in India

01:20:40 Optimism for the Future of Gaming

01:24:14 Content Creation Insights and Collaboration

01:30:49 Closing Thoughts and Future Conversations

Summary

In this engaging conversation, the Guild of Gaming Gurus reflects on their experiences at the TTOX Edition 6.0, discussing the highlights, community engagement, and the structure of the event. They delve into the importance of game mechanics, player experience, and the etiquette expected at gaming conventions. The group also shares their thoughts on the frequency of conventions, hygiene practices, and the significance of supporting game designers. The conversation wraps up with a look towards future events and the evolving landscape of gaming culture.

Takeaways

• The warmth and community spirit at gaming events are invaluable.
• Three days of gaming is often not enough for enthusiasts.
• The structure of events can greatly enhance the experience for attendees.
• Conventions should be held more frequently to foster community.
• Hygiene and etiquette are crucial at gaming conventions.
• It's important to support game designers and original content.
• Player experience should be prioritized over strict mechanics.
• Overthinking games can detract from enjoyment.
• Community engagement is key to successful events.
• Future conventions should consider incorporating technology for better management.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Guild of Gaming Gurus

02:36 Highlights of the TTOX Edition 6.0

05:38 Game Library and Structure of TTOX

08:06 Community Engagement and Event Management

11:13 Conventions and Their Frequency

13:47 Hygiene and Etiquette at Game Conventions

16:57 Game Mechanics and Player Experience

19:29 Controversial Opinions on Game Design

22:23 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

This episode features Mihir Shah, the designer of Viticulture, in a conversation that dives deep into the craft of modern tabletop games. We explore his design journey, the evolution of his creative process, and the lessons learned from building one of the most loved worker-placement games in the world.

We also discuss Thailand Board Games Show ’25 — how the event has grown, why it’s becoming a key hub for Asian publishers, and what made this year’s edition stand out. From community energy to international collaboration, the show offered a remarkable snapshot of where Asian tabletop design is headed.

A thoughtful episode for game designers, publishers, and anyone curious about the future of board game creation in this part of the world.

In this episode of the GOGGS podcast, the hosts delve into the world of tabletop role-playing games (RPGs) with special guest Arvind Sundar.

They discuss Arvind's journey into TTRPGs, the challenges faced in the Indian gaming scene, and the importance of Game Masters.

The conversation also touches on the integration of Indian mythology into RPGs, highlighting the rich storytelling potential it offers.

Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the need for community support and awareness to grow the TTRPG culture in India.

In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the evolving landscape of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) in India, emphasizing the importance of cultural authenticity, personal experiences, and the burgeoning community.

They discuss the significance of TTRPGCon.in as a platform for new players and seasoned veterans alike, explore various TTRPG systems beyond the mainstream, and share insights on homebrewing and cost-effective gaming.

The conversation culminates in aspirations for creating immersive gaming experiences rooted in Indian culture, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the gaming community.

GAMX x TTGDA Panel (with Jeff Engelstein, Rob Daviau, Tony Tran)

This panel discussion brought together celebrated international designers—Jeff Engelstein, Rob Daviau, and Tony Tran—to share insights with the Indian tabletop game design community.

• Jeff Engelstein – Designer, educator at NYU, author of game design books, and co-founder of the Tabletop Game Designers Association.

• Rob Daviau – Co-owner of Restoration Games, known as the “king of legacy games,” designer of Betrayal Legacy, Unmatched, and many more.

• Tony Tran – Community builder and designer from Tennessee, active in organizing design groups and conventions.

1. Advice for New Designers

   • Your first designs won’t be perfect—refinement takes time.

   • All games are “bad until they’re good.” Persevere, test, and improve.

   • Define design goals early to avoid scope creep.

   • Don’t overcomplicate; most first-time designers add too much.

2. Playtesting

   • Physical playtests are more valuable than digital, because body language, frustration, and engagement are observable.

   • Stack the deck when pitching—show the exciting parts early.

   • Early playtests can be “workshops” rather than full sessions.

   • Feedback is valuable, but don’t chase every single suggestion.

3. Pitching & Publishing

   • Don’t pitch until you believe your game is “ready.”

   • Publishers care about marketability (audience, price point, expansions, theme, etc.).

   • Giving up control is part of publishing—sometimes a publisher improves your game, sometimes not.

   • Self-publishing gives control but comes with major logistical and financial burdens.

4. Indian Context & Opportunities

   • India has huge potential as the birthplace of historic games (chess, snakes & ladders).

   • The key challenge is visibility—Indian designers struggle to reach global publishers.

   • Suggested solutions:

     • Build local conventions (like Tokyo Game Fair helped Japanese designers).

     • Create platforms for publishers to scout games in India.

     • Push for government support (e.g., India Pavilion at global cons).

     • Persistence: get as many eyeballs as possible via online channels, local publication, or international showcases.

5. Cultural Themes

   • Games don’t have to be Indian-themed, but local culture naturally influences design voice and can make games unique.

   • A breakout Indian hit could define an “Indian style” of games for global audiences.

6. AI in Game Design

   • Panelists use AI lightly—for brainstorming names, filler content, or math checks.

   • They do not rely on it for design, because AI tends to produce generic ideas.

   • Future potential: simulation for balance testing, but not yet practical.

7. Challenges in the Industry

   • Tariffs, inflation, and supply chain issues are destabilizing the market.

   • Small box games may be rising in popularity due to affordability and ease.

   • Even established publishers are facing uncertainty, with sales down significantly.

8. Young Designers & Education

   • No need for formal degrees in game design—making games and learning by doing is the best path.

   • Books and courses can help you progress faster but aren’t mandatory.

   • Focus on keeping designs simple and approachable.

• Indian designers should design passionately, refine patiently, and push games into the world by any channel possible.

• Building local strength (indie publishers, conventions) while inviting global interest is the dual strategy needed.

• The community is still young, but global experts see immense promise in India’s designers and games.

Summary

In this episode of the GOGGS Podcast, the hosts delve into the vibrant world of tabletop gaming, featuring guests who share their personal journeys, insights into the board game community, and the evolution of gaming culture in India and Thailand.

They discuss the challenges faced by the Indian board game scene, the growth of game collections, and the importance of community building.

The conversation also touches on the role of board games in education and highlights exciting new games and trends in the industry. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the world of board games, discussing their personal journeys in game publishing, the impact of board games on focus and decision-making, and the importance of community engagement.

They explore new game mechanics, share recommendations, and reflect on the integration of games into academia.

The discussion also touches on the future of board gaming in India, emphasizing the collaborative spirit and the excitement surrounding upcoming events and innovations in the industry.

Summary:

In this episode of the GoGGs podcast, the hosts delve into the vibrant world of board game communities, discussing their growth, the importance of game design, and the challenges of building a welcoming environment for new players. They share recent game highlights, explore the dynamics of community building, and reflect on the role of game rentals in introducing newcomers to the hobby. The conversation emphasizes the significance of genuine passion for board games and the impact of word-of-mouth marketing in fostering a thriving gaming culture.

In this conversation, the participants discuss various aspects of board game rentals, community building, and the challenges of hosting game meetups. They explore the importance of safety deposits, the benefits of renting games, and strategies for introducing new players to the hobby.

The discussion also covers collaboration with cafes for hosting events, the significance of building relationships within the community, and the latest trends in the board game industry, including upcoming releases and recommendations for new players.

In this engaging conversation, the panel of gaming enthusiasts discusses their experiences and insights into the world of board gaming. They introduce themselves, share their backgrounds in community building and game hosting, and explore the evolution of tabletop gaming in India.

The conversation highlights recent games they've played, trends in the industry, and their experiences at Gen Con 2025, emphasizing the importance of community and education in promoting the hobby.

In this episode, the hosts discuss their experiences at Gen Con, highlighting the excitement around new games and the growth of the Indian board game community. They share insights from industry leaders, explore the challenges and opportunities in the board game market, and emphasize the importance of community engagement.

The conversation also touches on upcoming events and the evolving landscape of board gaming in India.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Guild of Gaming Gurus Podcast

02:03 Meet the Panel: Community Builders in Gaming

04:49 The Journey into Tabletop Gaming

07:10 Exploring Game Mechanics and Community Engagement

10:06 Current Games and Experiences

12:53 Diving into Game Recommendations

15:35 The Witcher and Gwent: A Thematic Exploration

18:13 Favorite Games and Family Engagement

18:50 Classic Games and New Discoveries

21:07 The Rise of Pocket-Sized Games

22:29 Experiences at GenCon

27:33 Networking and Community Engagement

33:12 The Scale and Organization of GenCon

36:35 Future Game Trends and Personal Favorites

40:36 Exploring New Energies in Gaming

42:11 The Rise of Indian Board Games

43:14 Community Building in Bangalore's Gaming Scene

45:07 Shifting Trends in Board Gaming

49:37 Industry Insights and Economic Shifts

55:02 Ethics and Representation in Game Design

57:36 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement

The GoGGs Podcast, short for the Guild of Gaming Gurus Podcast, is created by Indian tabletop gaming enthusiasts. This podcast focuses on board games, card games, and related topics, offering a platform for fans to explore the world of tabletop gaming. Each episode includes discussions about life and banter, games the hosts have played or anticipate, current industry news, and responses to listener inquiries. The show invites listeners to join them as they engage with various aspects of the hobby.