Bards of the Board
by Bards of the Board
We are the Bards of the Board and we welcome you to our podcast!! Jason and Robbie have the goal of introducing non-gamers to the amazing world of tabletop gaming. With over 35 years of modern board gaming experience, we strive to open newer gamers to a variety of games that may be fun and exciting for them. Whether it’s the theme, mechanics, or length of game, we hope to demystify the negative stigma that often accompanies tabletop gaming and help players realize the tabletop gaming world is for everyone!
Episodes
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Getting Back to the Table, Top 5 Games We Want to Play! | EP 55
After a couple of months away from the table, the Bards of the Board are back! And what better way to return than by talking about the games we can’t wait to get back to playing? In this episode, we’re counting down our Top 5 Games We’re Looking Forward to Playing Again — the games that have been...
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Wait...Robbie's Favorite Co Op Game? Mysterium Board Game Review | EP 54
Step into the eerie halls of Warwick Manor as the Bards tackle one of the most atmospheric board games ever made-Mysterium. In this episode of Bards of the Board, we dive into the beautifully haunting world of psychic visions, ghostly clues, and cooperative deduction. One player takes on the role...
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This is a Top 5 Board Game of All Time?? Dune Imperium Board Game Review | EP 53
This week on Bards of the Board, we journey to Arrakis. Jason brings one of his all-time favorites to the table: Dune: Imperium — the deck-building, worker-placement epic that blends political intrigue, resource management, and all-out conflict in the battle for spice. While it may lean heavier...
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It Just HAS To Be This One... | Stella Board Game Review EP 52
In Episode 52 of Bards of the Board, we set our sights on the stars with Stella, the strategic, word-association game set in the beloved Dixit universe. Using the familiar dreamlike art Dixit fans love, Stella asks players to read the table, take risks, and see how closely their thinking aligns...
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Jason is TOP 3 in the WORLD?? | River Valley Glassworks Board Game Review EP 51
In this episode of Bards of the Board, we fire up the kiln and dive into the shimmering world of River Valley Glassworks—a board game all about crafting, colors, clever combos, and keeping your glassblowing workshop running like a work of art. We break down:✨ How the game actually feels to...
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Top 10 Games You Can Teach Your Mom!! | EP 50
Not every game night starts with seasoned gamers—and sometimes the best challenge is finding the perfect gateway for a hesitant player. In this episode of Bards of the Board, we count down our Top 10 board games you can teach your mom (or any reluctant gamer!) to help them fall in love with the...
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Flaring Metals and Building Decks! Mistborn Board Game Review!! | EP 49
Welcome back to Bards of the Board! 🎲✨ This week we’re diving into the world of Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn with a full review of Mistborn: The Deckbuilding Game. We’ll break down how the game captures the spirit of the books, what works (and what doesn’t) in its deckbuilding mechanics, and...
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Disney Made a Trading Card Game?? | Disney Lorcana Review EP 48
Welcome back to Bards of the Board! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the magical world of Disney Lorcana, the trading card game from Ravensburger that’s taken the hobby by storm. We’ll explore what makes Lorcana unique, how it stacks up against other TCGs, and whether it’s worth adding to…
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Jason's Top 3 All Time?!? Castles of Burgundy Review | EP 47
Bards of the Board is back with a deep dive into one of the most beloved eurogames of all time — Castles of Burgundy! In this episode, we explore what makes Stefan Feld’s classic stand the test of time, from its dice-driven strategy to the endless ways to score points. We’ll share our favorite...
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Tapping Dragons and Creating Essences, it's Res Arcana Time!! | EP 46
In this episode of Bards of the Board, we dive deep into the magical world of Res Arcana — a game of mages, artifacts, and alchemical dominance. Designed by Tom Lehmann, Res Arcana challenges players to build efficient engine combos with a tight card pool and even tighter resource management. We...
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Best Board Games for Your Family and Kids?? | Ep 45
In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the world of family-friendly board games that are perfect for introducing your kids and loved ones to the hobby game space! Whether you're a seasoned gamer looking to share your passion or a parent curious about games beyond Monopoly and Uno, we've got...
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Taking Down Dracula? Stopping the Mummy?? Horrified Board Game Review | Ep 44
In this video, we dive into the thrilling cooperative board game Horrified, where you and your team must work together to defeat legendary Universal Monsters like Dracula, The Mummy, Frankenstein's Monster, and more! Whether you're a horror fan, a co-op game enthusiast, or just looking for your...
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Embrace Your Friends on the Other Side!! Disney Villainous Board Game Review | EP 43
Welcome to our latest podcast episode, where we dive deep into the world of Disney villainy! This time, we're reviewing Disney Villainous – the hit board game from Ravensburger that lets you step into the shoes of iconic Disney villains like Maleficent, Ursula, Jafar, and more. We break down the...
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Buy Low Sell High!! Smartphone Inc. Board Game Review!! | EP 42
In this video, we dive into Smartphone Inc., the sleek economic strategy game about dominating the global tech market! We break down how it plays, what makes it unique, and whether it's a good fit for players who are newer to modern board gaming. We’ll cover: ✅ How the game works ✅ What we liked...
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"Might Be the Most Perfect Game We've Covered??" One Night Ultimate Werewolf Review | Ep. 41
Welcome to the table as we dive into one of the most fast-paced, chaotic, and fun social deduction games out there. Watch as alliances form, accusations fly, and secrets are revealed—all in just one night. Will the village survive, or will the werewolves go undetected? You can find One Night...
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Welcome to OUR Table!! Top 10 Games The Bards Have Played Together!!
Welcome to the Table, specifically...our table!! Every 10th episode we bring a top 10 list, and today is no different. In today's episode we're discussing our top 10 games that we have actually played together. This episode was a blast to record, and might be Robbie's favorite so far, as we…
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Living Life One Tile at a Time!! Azul Board Game Review | EP 39
In this episode of Bards of the Board, we break down one of the most beautifully crafted board games out there – Azul! Join us as we explore the mechanics, strategy, and artistry behind this fan-favorite tile-laying game. Whether you're a seasoned Azul player or new to the game, our discussion…
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Take a Card, Pass It Down, 7 Wonders All Around!! 7 Wonders Board Game Review Episode 38
In this episode, we dive into the strategic world of 7 Wonders, the classic card drafting board game where players build their own civilizations over three ages. Join us as we discuss the mechanics, strategies, and what makes this game a fan favorite. From the intense decisions on which cards to...
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Going to Go with...Enchanted | Dixit Board Game Review Ep. 37
In this video, we dive into the enchanting world of Dixit, the popular storytelling board game! 🎨✨ Join us as we explore: Gameplay Mechanics: Learn how the game works, from setting up to scoring, and how the unique blend of storytelling and creativity sets Dixit apart. Strategy Tips: Discover...
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Flamingos, Meerkats, and Penguins OH MY!! New York Zoo Board Game Review | Ep. 36
Welcome to our latest video where we dive into the exciting world of New York Zoo! In this video, we explore everything this captivating board game has to offer, from its unique mechanics to the animal-filled gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned board gamer or new to the hobby, we’ll break down…
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What Should You Bring to Game Night?? w/ Alex Radcliffe from Board Game Co! | EP 35
You can find and support Alex over at: https://www.youtube.com/ @BoardGameCo Looking to host the perfect game night with newer or less experienced board gamers? In this video, we dive into the best games to introduce to those just starting out or still getting comfortable in the hobby. Whether...
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Building Your Character and Great Game!! Call to Adventure Board Game Review | EP 34
In a world full of quests, challenges, and chaos there is an individual who rises to the occasion. Fortunately for us, that person is you the player!! In today's game we will find our origin story, embrace our motivation, and seek the destiny we deserve! This rune-tossing game brings a unique…
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Colorful Quilts for a Crunchy Game!! Calico Board Game Review | EP 33
Cats and Quilts..and iconic combo. In today's game we are going to discuss one of the more mechanically simple games we've played that also might be one of the thinkiest and crunchiest games we've discussed at the same time. In this Tile Laying Masterpiece you'll be assembling a quilt and...
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The Bird IS the Word!! Wingspan Board Game Review | EP 32
You’ve heard us mention it for over a year now…and today it finally hits the table. One of our highest rated games according to the Board Game world, today we tackle Wingspan. In Wingspan you are bird enthusiasts—researchers, bird watchers, ornithologists, and collectors—seeking to discover and...
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Why Doesn't This End Up at the Table More?? Five Tribes Board Game Review | EP 31
In this Mancala world you'll be moving 5 different tribes through the board to gain as many resources as possible! Five Tribes is a classic amongst Board Gamers and for those interested in a Hobby Gaming space, Robbie might argue this is a must play! With one of the more unique mechanics you'll...
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You'll NEVER Believe Jason's Number 1!! | Top 10 2 Player Board Games
Welcome to the Table, and we’re back with another fantastic episode!! Every 10th episode we bring a top 10 list, and today is no different. In today's episode we're discussing our top 10 games to bring out when it's just us and one other. Whether it's a date board game night, or hanging out with…
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The Catchiest Game Yet!! Pandemic Board Game Review! | EP 29
In 2020 the world found itself amidst a global pandemic, but the creators of this board game have had folks experiencing this for years. Today's game talks about Pandemic, the board game where you and your team will work together to stop the spread of disease worldwide. Through unique roles, a...
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Millionaires of the Forest?? Raccoon Tycoon Board Game Review | EP 28
Buy a Railroad, Produce Commodities, or Invest in a Town?? In today's game you'll have the potential to start your empire of the woodlands with some incredible gameplay as an introduction into a lighter step of modern hobby gaming. Whether you want to push your luck and wait for the best time to...
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Good for Kids AND Adults?? | Kingdomino Board Game Review EP 27
Tile Laying Games are a Personal favorite of Robbie’s, and throw in some Polyomino pieces and Jason’s in as well. Today’s game is an award winning Tile Placement game where you’ll be building your very own Kingdom under a small restriction to add a little bit of pressure. Do the Bards agree with...
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How to Introduce New Players to Board Games with James Hudson of Druid City Games!! | EP 26
**Sorry for Robbie's Audio Issues. He tried a new camera for the Youtube version and accidentally selected it for his audio as well!! Will be fixed for next episode!!** Today we welcome our next incredible guest to the channel, James Hudson of Druid City Games! He's the owner and one of the game...
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Questing Amongst the Royalty!! Lords of Waterdeep Board Game Review! | EP 25
DND is a game/play experience that for many can serve as the gateway into the hobby gaming world. Today's game takes the themes and characters from DND bringing them to the Lords of Waterdeep Board Game! Here you'll help influence a town as you recruit talent and warriors to help you quest,...
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Destroyer of Cities and Friendships?? King of Tokyo Board Game Review | EP 24
Yahtzee is a tried and true classic in the board game world. The joy of seeing those dice roll into the combo you're looking for is extremely satisfying. In today's game we take Yahtzee one step further with Kaiju monsters who look to prove who is the mightiest in their conquest of Tokyo. King of...
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A Song of Combos and Fire Flamecraft Board Game Review | EP 23
There is just something about Dragons. Whether it's in Game of Thrones, Wyrmspan, or even music dragons seem to be universally loved and appreciated. In today's game we head to a dragon town to visit shops and embrace combos as you gather reputation in this wonderful game. Flamecraft is a game...
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Our First 2 Player Only Game?? Patchwork Board Game Review | EP 22
Two Player Games are a staple of the modern board gaming world. Whether they are games that play well at a two-player count or games specifically designed for two players, these types of games have a very specific place on your shelf. In today's game we discuss polyomino games with our first...
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Just a Walk in the Park! Dog Park Board Game Review | EP 21
Do you love dogs?? Do you love cute art in a board game? If you answered yes to one or both of those questions than do we have a great game for you!! In today's video we are talking about Dog Park a game where you recruit dogs into your kennel to take them on luxurious walks through the park! Dog...
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Summer's Here!! Top 10 Party Games for our Bards!! | EP 20
Welcome to the Table, and we’re back with another fantastic episode!! Yall loved our Top 10 games to start a collection with, well today we’re taking things a little lighter in episode 20! Today’s episode contains Jason and Robbie’s Top 10 Party Games!! Now the definition of Party Game can feel a...
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Dungeons, Decks, and …Disaster?? Clank Board Game Review | EP 19
What if I told you there was a way to play a deck builder where you ALSO got to experience moving pieces around on a board? For many gamers you have two worlds, card games and board games, well today's game combines those incredible worlds. Here you'll see a world of Dungeon Diving taken to the...
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ALL ABOARD with a Classic!! Ticket to Ride Board Game Review | EP 18
For the Anime Fans of the world, hearing the big three brings three fantastic shows to mind that have shaped modern anime. In the Hobby Board Game world, the big three include: Settlers of Catan, Carcassone, and today's classic Ticket To Ride. TTR is a drafting placement game where players are...
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Building Windows and Memories!! Sagrada Board Game Review | EP 17
Sagrada Familia is one of the modern wonders of the world in its beauty and construction. The immaculate stain glass windows will wow most who see them, and in today's game you get the task of building their next piece. This board game takes translucent die and allows players to follow a strict...
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Marvel Comic Fans ASSEMBLE!! Marvel United Board Game Review!! | EP 16
Comic Books have taken ahold of many lives since we were children, but in the mid 2000's we saw Marvel Comics go one step further and take over the theatre. Comic Movies have changed cinema (for the positive or negative) and the Heroes we know have become parts of our lives. In today's episode we...
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Our Favorite Board Game Mechanics Ft. Jamey Stegmaier of Stonemaier Games!!
Today we welcome our first guest to the channel, and yall it’s one who we never dreamed would be possible! Jamey Stegmaier is a Board Game Business Owner, Game Designer, Game Publisher, and Disc Golfer!! He’s a perfect guest to have on the show with Jason and Robbie, and today we’re talking Board...
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The Game of Risk but Magical?? Small World Board Game Review | Ep 14
Risk is one of the most classic board games of all time. World domination is the goal and for many folks it is their first real dive into a more strategy intense game. In today’s episode we’re going to talk about a Modern Hobby Gaming alternative that brings a little more whimsical fun to world...
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Our Most Complicated Game Yet!! Stone Age Board Game Review | Ep 13
Released in 2008 we head back in time of Modern Hobby Gaming to head to the STONE AGE!! In this Introductory Euro style game you'll be using worker placement with your tribe to gather resources and advance your way towards Buildings and Civilization in today's game. A classic in Jason's house…
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Our Second Double Double Doozie?? The Crew Board Game| Ep 12
Trick Takers Unite!! Whether you come from Hearts, Spades, or even Rook today we dive into a massive genre of games and tackle The Crew! In this game, you and your crew are traveling through space trying to complete a series of 50 missions that increase in difficulty as you go. We thought Jason…
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The Inspiration for Modern Deck Builders?? Dominion Board Game Review | Episode 11
"You are a monarch, like your parents before you, a ruler of a small pleasant kingdom of rivers and evergreens. Unlike your parents, however, you have hopes and dreams! You want a bigger and more pleasant kingdom, with more rivers and a wider variety of trees. You want a Dominion!" In this…
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Top 10 Games to Get Your Board Game Collection Started With!! | Episode 10
Welcome to the Table, and if you're our target audience for this podcast...this episode is ESPECIALLY for you!! In today's episode, the Bards sit down and discuss the top 10 games you should consider acquiring if you're looking to start a modern hobby-gaming collection. Now we've set up some...
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Mayor For a Day?? Machi Koro Review | Episode 9
In this dice-rolling extravaganza, we welcome you to the LOVELY city where you'll be the Mayor! Constructing new structures like fields, restaurants, and even a mall if you're lucky! This is an evergreen game that sits just outside of the classics of modern Hobby Gaming, and our bards have some...
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Reading Through History with HerStory the Board Game!! | Ep 8
History is filled with iconic and powerful figures who have helped shape the world as we know it today. Let's take a minute to be honest though: most of the history books tell the stories of the men throughout. In today's game we get to learn Her story. HerStory introduces us to the stories of...
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START YOUR ENGINES!! Time for Downforce the Racing Board Game!! | Episode 7
Whether it's F1 or Nascar or even Derby Racing...there is something to the thrill of speed. Watching vehicles fly around corners whilst pushing the limits of physics can feel like an absolute rush. Even if you live a less adrenaline-filled life and prefer racing in the realm of Mario, we can all...
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Zombie Dinosaurs vs Alien Robots?? Smash Up Review Episode 6
We are the Bards of the Board and we welcome you to our podcast!! Here we are in our 6th episode taking you to a different part of the Tabletop world!! Our first game isn't really a board per se (Splendor had tiles laid out) but this card game will make any Yugioh/Magic/Pokemon TCG player…
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About this show
We are the Bards of the Board and we welcome you to our podcast!! Jason and Robbie have the goal of introducing non-gamers to the amazing world of tabletop gaming. With over 35 years of modern board gaming experience, we strive to open newer gamers to a variety of games that may be fun and exciting for them. Whether it’s the theme, mechanics, or length of game, we hope to demystify the negative stigma that often accompanies tabletop gaming and help players realize the tabletop gaming world is for everyone!
Hosted by
Bards of the Board