Tabletop Throwdown

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, our special guest Dan Madsen shares his incredible journey from starting the first official Star Trek fan club at age 18 to working closely with Lucasfilm on Star Wars projects. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, fan culture evolution, and the impact of fandom on Hollywood and personal careers. Join us for an engaging conversation with Dan Madsen as he shares his extensive experience in the Star Wars and Star Trek fandoms, his work with Lucasfilm, and insights into the evolution of fandom culture, media production, and iconic sci-fi moments.Oh, and Mark Streed is officially a cohost of Tabletop Throwdown now! Welcome aboard, Mark! Don't worry, we'll get back to yapping about dice and cardboard next episode ;)Chapters00:00 Welcome Back to Tabletop Throwdown05:40 The Birth of the Official Star Trek Fan Club08:15 Transition to Lucasfilm and Star Wars11:07 The Evolution of Fandom and Fan Clubs13:59 Memorable Conventions and Experiences16:41 The Impact of Star Wars on Culture19:36 Nerd Culture Goes Mainstream22:13 The Legacy of Fandom in Modern Media34:03 The Impact of Episode I: Cultural Phenomenon37:51 Cameo in the Galaxy: Dan's Star Wars Appearance43:06 The Evolution of Star Wars Celebration47:56 Current Connections to Star Wars and Star Trek59:25 The Changing Landscape of Fandom01:01:48 The Toxic Side of Fandom01:04:29 Loving What You Love in Fandom01:10:00 Memorable Moments and Characters in Star Wars01:13:41 Dan Madsen's Current Projects and Future Plans01:15:28 TTT ranks the Star Trek films this time!Subscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailSean and Mike welcome Mark Streed to the Throwdown (and to GamingTrend!). After a chat about covering crowdfunding and playing prototype games, Mark opens up about some passion projects he plans to work on now that he's a part of the team!Chapters04:52 Cinematic Previews and Content Creation14:36 Crowdfunding Insights and Surprises21:32 Unexpected Successes in Game Funding36:36 Finding Value in Prototype Games43:11 Experiences at South by Southwest53:69 Mark's Passion for Legos and Retro Gaming01:00:42 Homebrew Gaming Innovations01:03:36 Exploring LEGO in Gaming Culture01:07:00 Engaging with Nostalgia in Entertainment01:09:01 Ranking the Star Wars Films#MarkStreed#atari #legos Music by Ulterior MotifSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailOur first guest of the season joins us this week- Nick Medinger from Renegade Games! Yes, we talk a bit about Dungeon Crawler Carl and other TTRPGs that Renegade publishes, a tangent involving cult classic film Repo Man goes on waaaay too long, and Mike subjects everyone to a walkthrough of the main grounds of the Geneva Grand Resort, home of Gary Con.This weeks episode is sponsored by Hell of a Deal- go back this killer co-op poker game on Kickstarter now: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/smirkanddagger/hell-of-a-deal?ref=9g53jcChapters01:05 Introducing the first guest of the season02:50 AI disclaimer04:25 Nerdy Obsessions and Collecting05:50 Nick's Journey in the Gaming Industry09:50 Surprising Successes in Game Development11:31 Reviving Classic Games14:09 The Evolution of Board Games21:06 Game Night Favorites23:34 Star Wars Board Games26:11 The Legacy of Star Wars Games28:49 Dungeon Crawler Carl 31:06 Behind the Scenes of Game Production34:37 Shrink-Wrapping Adventures42:40 When was the last time these guys RPG'd?44:07 Gary Con walkthrough01:04:23 Can't stop talking about Repo Man01:08:53 Convention Stories and Logistics Challenges01:11:55 The Perils of Shipping Board Games01:14:10 Game Frustrations and Memorable Experiences01:26:08 THE Star Wars question#dungeoncrawlercarl#dungeonsanddragons #renegade #repomanMusic by Ulterior Motif and a smattering of Sousa Thumbnail photo by Sean BrownSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailThis week Sean and Mike give a bit of a ‘post-action’ report on this year’s GAMA Expo! From all of the panels Mike foolishly agreed to do, to Dungeon Crawler Carl, to Sean taking a big step towards becoming a published game designer??? Welcome to another packed episode, and if you’ve ever wondered what the game industry does when the players aren’t around, you’ll definitely want to give this one a listen!Questions? Suggestions? Just want to heckle us? Reach out at [email protected]:00 Introduction and Excitement for GAMA Expo02:45 Reflections on GAMA Expo Experience05:04 Understanding GAMA Expo and Its Evolution07:17 Panels and Discussions at GAMA Expo09:51 The Importance of Trust in Media12:42 Filming Compelling Game Demos20:39 Nerd Alert!21:33 Staying professional in an idustry full of friends26:21 Leadership and Transformation in GAMA33:31 Dungeon Crawler Carl: A New IP36:19 Exploring the Dungeon Crawler Carl Universe46:05 The Importance of Gateway Games53:22 String Theory56:02 The Intersection of Gaming and Pop Culture01:01:38 The Four Horsemen and High-End Action Figures01:05:16 Introducing New Team Members at GamingTrend01:12:26 Exciting New Game Releases01:19:51 The Importance of Game Prototyping and Pitching01:26:09 Reflections on the Gaming Industry and Future DirectionsIs audio not enough for you and you just gotta see what these nerds actually look like? Check out the episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/TfDX2GRg_KAMusic by Ulterior MotifThumbnail photo by Ross ThompsonRelevant links:GAMA website: https://gama.orgStacey Marie Kline’s podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hey-stacey-marie/id1724463082Dungeon Crawler Carl TTRPG Kickstarter: https://www.backerkit.com/c/projects/renegade-game-studios/dungeon-crawler-carl-rpg-unstoppable/launch_partyHell of a Deal on BGG: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/smirkanddagger/hell-of-a-dealString Theory on BGG: https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/413220/string-theorySubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailThe long-awaited return of Tabletop Throwdown! This time it's All-new! All-Different! Sean Brown of Mr. B and Mayfair Games has cast aside all common sense and has agreed to be Mike Dunn's cohost for the foreseeable future! Join these two silly old nerds as they talk about just how bad 2025 was for the Tabletop Industry, and what they have done about it!Tabletop Throwdown Season 2, featuring Sean Brown as co-host, airs every other Tuesday.  Subscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailIn the season finale of Tabletop Throwdown, Mike Dunn and his co-hosts discuss the Colorado Springs Board Game Club, its history, community impact, and fundraising efforts for Extra Life. They share personal experiences, the importance of community in gaming, and provide advice for starting a board game club. The episode concludes with reflections on the past season and plans for the future. Season Two coming in January!Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:50 The Colorado Springs Board Game Club04:45 Personal Experiences with the Club10:07 The Impact of the Pandemic on Gaming14:19 The Importance of Community in Gaming21:47 History of the Colorado Springs Board Game Club26:57 Fundraising for Extra Life35:48 Unique Fundraising Events and Community Engagement42:18 Advice for Starting a Board Game Club48:33 Conclusion and Future Plans for TTTSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Tabletop Throwdown, host Mike Dunn is joined by co-host Mark Julian and special guests Talia Rosen and Jason Matthews. The conversation explores various aspects of board game design, including the importance of accurate game duration (a callback to S1E10!) , the collaborative process in creating games, and the evolution of themes in historical gaming. They discuss the challenges of game aesthetics, the impact of complexity on player experience, and the current trends in the board game market. The episode also highlights the upcoming game 'First Monday in October', which focuses on the Supreme Court, showcasing the innovative approaches to game design. In this conversation, Talia Rosen and Jason Matthews discuss their board game that explores the dynamics of the Supreme Court through area control mechanics. They delve into the balance between historical accuracy and player agency, the ethical implications of gaming historical events, and the challenges of designing a game that is both educational and engaging. The discussion also touches on the success of their Kickstarter campaign and the importance of public domain materials in game design.You can back the Kickstarter for First Monday in October here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/fortcircle/first-monday-in-october/descriptionSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Tabletop Throwdown, Mike Dunn and Dan Hinken welcome Jay Cormier, a game designer and founder of Off The Page Games. They discuss Jay's journey in game design, the development of the Mind Management game, and how comic books influence his work. Jay shares insights on the challenges faced during game development, the importance of honoring the source material, and his passion for creating games based on indie comics. The conversation also touches on personal stories about comic collecting and the impact of comics on their lives. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore their personal journeys with comics and graphic novels, discussing how specific titles reignited their passion for the medium. They delve into the creative process of game design, emphasizing the importance of constraints in fostering innovation. The discussion also touches on teaching game design to students, the inception of the Fail Faster journal, and the development of a unique educational book that combines storytelling with game mechanics. Finally, they consider the marketability of new game concepts and the evolving landscape of board games for younger audiences. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of game design, particularly focusing on creating family-friendly games and the challenges of adapting comic book narratives into games. They discuss the importance of art style in accessibility, the innovative mechanics that can enhance gameplay, and the future of their projects, including collaborations and upcoming conventions. The dialogue highlights the balance between maintaining the essence of the original comic while making it appealing to a broader audience.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jay Cormier and His Ventures03:04 The Journey of Mind Management Game Development05:49 The Evolution of Off The Page Games09:04 Creating Games from Comics: A Unique Approach12:03 The Impact of Comics on Game Design14:49 Exploring New Game Ideas and Inspirations17:49 Comic Collecting and Personal Stories23:40 Rediscovering Comics: A Journey Back to the Page24:32 Diving into Graphic Novels: Personal Experiences and Favorites25:54 The Concept of Crossover: Blending Fictional Worlds28:34 Constraints as Creativity: The Power of Limitations in Game Design30:53 Teaching Game Design: Insights from the Classroom33:34 The Birth of the Fail Faster Journal: A Solution to a Problem36:41 Design Your Destiny: A Unique Approach to Game Design Education39:13 Exploring Simplicity in Game Mechanics: A Shift in Perspective43:36 Marketability of Game Concepts: Seeking Validation and Feedback47:52 The Importance of Family-Friendly Gaming49:02 Art and Accessibility in Game Design51:41 Creating a Narrative for Game Development52:20 Exploring Comic Book Adaptations54:06 The Challenge of Adapting Iconic Comics56:39 Innovative Game Mechanics and Concepts01:00:20 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and CollaborationsSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Tabletop Throwdown, Mike Dunn, Mark Julian, and guest Ammon Anderson discuss their recent gaming experiences, including a charity event for children's hospitals, the success of Ammon's game Gnome Hollow, and the upcoming release of Twinkle Twinkle. They delve into the intricacies of game design, collaboration with publishers, and the evolution of production quality in board games. The conversation also touches on cultural differences in game preferences and the humorous aspects of game design, culminating in the announcement of Ammon's new game, Space Potato. The discussion shifts to the challenges of running a Kickstarter campaign, highlighting the emotional rollercoaster it entails. They explore the current state of Kickstarter, particularly for small creators, and the impact of larger companies on funding opportunities. The conversation also touches on manufacturing challenges, especially in light of potential tariffs, and the importance of accessibility in board games, emphasizing community support for colorblind players.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Extra Life Event Recap05:49 The Success of Gnome Hollow11:58 Collaboration in Game Design18:03 The Evolution of Game Production Quality24:01 Announcing Space Potato31:58 The Chaos of Board Games41:32 The Essence of Fun in Game Design46:55 Playing Games: The Joy of Experience55:43 Upcoming Releases and Collaborations01:03:00 The Current State of Kickstarter and Small Creators01:09:52 Accessibility in Board Games and Community SupportSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Tabletop Throwdown, Mike Dunn and James Van Tonningen chat with Sean Brown, the head of Mayfair Games, discussing the relaunch of the brand and their latest Kickstarter project, Empire Builder: Europe. They explore the success of the Kickstarter campaign, the importance of reviving classic games, and the strategy behind targeting both mass market and dedicated gamers. Sean shares insights on the gaming industry, the legacy of popular games like Catan and Ticket to Ride, and the excitement surrounding their participation in Essen Spiel. In this engaging conversation, Sean discusses the revival of classic board games, the importance of community feedback, and the challenges of shipping in the gaming industry. He reflects on the nostalgia associated with game development and the evolution of the board game industry, emphasizing the role of crowdfunding in enabling creators to bring their visions to life. The discussion highlights the camaraderie within the gaming community and the excitement surrounding new projects.Be sure to check out the Empire Builder: Europe Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mrbgames/empire-builder-europe?ref=bj32byTakeawaysEmpire Builder Europe has exceeded expectations on Kickstarter.The revival of Mayfair Games focuses on quality and nostalgia.Mr. B Games plays a crucial role in special projects.Classic games are being updated for modern audiences.The gaming community is eager for new iterations of beloved titles.Essen Spiel provided valuable networking opportunities for Mayfair. -The goal is to make games that are enjoyable for all generations.Kickstarter allows for more creative freedom in game design.The legacy of Catan and Ticket to Ride influences new game development.Bringing European games to the U.S. market is a priority for Mayfair.Reviving classic games can bring nostalgia and excitement.Community feedback is crucial for game development.Shipping challenges have increased in the gaming industry.Crowdfunding has democratized game creation.The board game industry is filled with passionate individuals.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mayfair Games and Sean Brown02:58 Kickstarter Success and Stretch Goals06:00 The Role of Mr. B Games08:58 Reviving Classic Games11:50 Empire Builder Europe: A Modern Take14:55 Targeting the Mass Market17:56 The Legacy of Catan and Ticket to Ride21:04 Bringing European Games to the U.S.23:57 Essen Spiel Experience and Future Plans33:28 Reviving Classic Games36:34 Community Engagement and Feedback39:10 Nostalgia and Game Development42:59 Shipping Challenges in the Gaming Industry47:53 The Evolution of the Board Game Industry59:03 The Future of Gaming and CrowdfundingSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Tabletop Throwdown, Mike Dunn and Steven Starkey speak with Christian Hoffer, a prominent voice in the Dungeons & Dragons community. They discuss Hoffer’s journey from writing about comics to becoming a key figure in tabletop RPG journalism, his experiences at Comic Book, and the impact of corporate changes on the industry. The conversation delves into the OGL controversy, the current state of D&D discourse, and the importance of community engagement in the gaming world. Hoffer shares insights on his new ventures, including his YouTube channel, Above the Table, and emphasizes the need for a supportive community around D&D.TakeawaysChristian Hoffer transitioned from writing about comics to D&D journalism.The OGL controversy highlighted the disconnect between corporate decisions and community needs.D&D’s design team largely opposed changes to the OGL due to potential backlash.Community engagement is crucial for the success of tabletop RPGs.Hoffer’s YouTube channel, Above the Table, aims to foster community and discussion.The pandemic shifted D&D’s focus away from community-driven content.Corporate interests often overshadow the voices of those who understand the game.Hoffer emphasizes the importance of recognizing the difference between AI and traditional art.The D&D team is working to rebuild trust with the community post-OGL. -Hoffer believes that the right people are being placed in key positions at Wizards of the Coast.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:58 Christian Hoffer’s Journey into Writing05:51 Transition from Comics to D&D08:49 Pathfinder vs. D&D: A Player’s Perspective11:44 The Evolution of Comic Book Media14:57 Current Work and Freelancing Ventures17:39 The State of Tabletop Media20:41 Launching a New YouTube Channel23:33 Discussion on D&D Discourse and OGL34:13 The Evolution of the Open Gaming License36:01 Backlash and Community Response41:00 Corporate Decisions and Community Disconnect47:10 Rebuilding Community Trust 50:35 Navigating Corporate Challenges54:34 The Future of Dungeons & DragonsSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailWe're back and about to go to Gen Con! Join us as we talk about games we are excited about seeing at Gen Con this year, and tease a bit about what else we are doing! Games we are looking forward to:Gnome HollowLuthierUndaunted 2200 CalistoBoop the HallsComic HuntersSeers CatalogCreepshowThe Elder Scrolls: Betrayal of the Second EraButton KingdomsDead Reckoning: Port of CallHappy HomeTerminusGone to Gaia...and more!Subscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailGame durations on the side of the box- who comes up with those? Why do they always seem wildly inaccurate? What is the point? We talk with five luminary game designers and ask them those questions and more on this week's episode. There are definitely some spicy takes out there, but we get into the nitty gritty of what goes into coming up that number and why, as well as what it doesn't measure and why it is actually pretty important! Ammon Anderson (Gnome Hollow, Twinkle, Twinkle), Jason Matthews (Twilight Struggle, Fort Circle Games), Kevin Wilson (Kinfire Chronicles, Arkham Horror), and brothers Cole and Drew Werhle (John Company, Pax Pamir) share their perspectives on this divisive metric.Thanks for watching, and see you in a month-ish!Subscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailIncredible Dream has been publishing hit game after hit game since their co-operative adventure Kinfire Chronicles, with long-time game designer and Fantasy Flight Games vet Kevin Wilson at the helm. James and Mike got to chat recently with Kevin about their latest title which just hit Kickstarter: Kinfire Council, a lovingly crafted worker placement game with a few twists! Kevin tells us a bit about his career and we dive deep into the new game. Be sure to check out James' preview: https://gamingtrend.com/feature/previews/kinfire-council-hands-on-preview-hidden-cultists-and-starless-nights/This podcast is a paid promotion by Incredible Dream for their new crowdfunding campaign: Kinfire Council is a competitive game of strategy and politics for 2-6 players. As a member of the Council, you've been charged with rebuilding the great city of Din'Lux and defending it from the dangers of the Starless Nights. You can back the Kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ahj00ma/kinfire2024Check out the Gaming Trend website for news, reviews, and more: https://gamingtrend.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gamingtrendCheck out our streams on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendAlso, chat with us on Discord: https://discord.gg/HXTeWMFSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailMike finally recounts his magical trip to Lake Geneva, WI, where he attended Gary Con XVI, kicking off the fiftieth year of Dungeons & Dragons with current and past designers, artists, and luminaries of the game. Luke Gygax explains how Gary Con came to be, and Mike (sloppily) recounts a historical D&D tour of the tiny resort town where Gary Gygax started it all.Find out more about Gary Con here: https://garycon.com/Check out the Gaming Trend website for news, reviews, and more: https://gamingtrend.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gamingtrendCheck out our streams on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendAlso, chat with us on Discord: https://discord.gg/HXTeWMFSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailWe saw a lot of great games at GAMA Expo last month, and we’ve got a few quick looks at some of them on today’s podcast! In addition to several new games that we saw for the first time, we got a few updates on some that we’ve been tracking since last year’s Expo!Some updates on games we’ve covered:-Luthier-Mollyhouse-Gnome HollowNew reveals-Boop The Halls-Halo Flashpoint-Canopy Evergreen-7 Impossible Things-Hurt Party-Star Realms Academy-Halo Flashpoint-Invincible: The Hero Building GameAlso, of note, we will be going to a biweekly schedule to help free up some time for Mike and Mark while they both move. Hope to be back to weekly by Origins (June)!Subscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailTabletop gaming has blown up in recent years, and thanks to organizations like Games & Gaming Roundtable (GameRT) and Tabletop Alliance bringing games and game awareness into libraries and schools, that awareness is growing! We chat with George Bergstrom of GameRT and Josh Isringhauser of Tabletop Alliance about what they are doing and how you can help. Here's a few relevant links if you want to find out more:GameRT:https://games.ala.org/https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLolw3FNRIvdj_5sH5-s2TCQbMVMAiqKwlTabletop Alliance:https://tabletopalliance.org/Check out the Gaming Trend website for news, reviews, and more: https://gamingtrend.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gamingtrendCheck out our streams on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendAlso, chat with us on Discord: https://discord.gg/HXTeWMFSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailThis week we chat with Nils Karlén (ALIEN RPG, Blade Runner RPG) and Kosta Kostulas (Coriolis — The Third Horizon, Mutant: Year Zero) about a new installment to the dark sci-fi TTRPG universe of Coriolis — The Third Horizon that just hit Kickstarter! Our special guest host is John Farrell (for at least part of the time). Check out the Kickstarter for Coriolis — The Great Dark and back it today: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1192053011/coriolis-the-great-dark-rpg-explore-a-lost-horizonSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailThis week we dive into the genre of games known as DECK BUILDERS! Joins us as we go through as brief retrospective and exploration of the deck building mechanics and the games that use them.This video is sponsored by The Tomb of Gyzaengaxx, the Kickstarter for a new 5E D&D Campaign from GooeyCube and GaxxWork; Embark on a mega-adventure created with Luke Gygax and other legends of the game, celebrating the legacy of Gary Gygax in a story-driven campaign. Find out more about The Tomb of Gyzaengaxx campaign here: https://shop.gooeycube.com/back/?attribution_code=GameTrendSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailThings get sticky this week as Mike Dunn and Steven Starkey chat with Head Wizard of GooeyCube, Alphinius Goo himself! We talk about how he got into D&D as a young lad, what GooeyCube brings to the table for modern players, and of course, his love-letter to the game featured in the upcoming Kickstarter 'The Tomb of Gyzaenaxx'! Be sure to like and subscribe so that Mike's character in his campaign survives the next session! And by all that is gooey, hit the link below and go sign up for the chance to get $200 in free stuff from GooeyCube!This podcast is sponsored by The Tomb of Gyzaengaxx, the Kickstarter for a new 5E D&D Campaign from GooeyCube and GaxxWork; Embark on a mega-adventure created with Luke Gygax and other legends of the game, celebrating the legacy of Gary Gygax in a story-driven campaign. Find out more about The Tomb of Gyzaengaxx campaign here: https://shop.gooeycube.com/back/?attribution_code=GameTrendSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailThis week we invited our Hobby Editor Randy Gregory II to chat about hobby painting and some of his competitions coming up, as well as his recent review of The Army Painter's Warpaint Fanatics line (which you can check out here: https://gamingtrend.com/feature/reviews/army-painter-fanatic-paints-a-collection-of-greatness/). Adam Abramowicz from The Army Painter joins us and gives us a peek into how they made this amazing new line of paints!This podcast is sponsored by The Tomb of Gyzaengaxx, the Kickstarter for a new 5E D&D Campaign from GooeyCube and GaxxWork; Embark on a mega-adventure created with Luke Gygax and other legends of the game, celebrating the legacy of Gary Gygax in a story-driven campaign. Find out more about The Tomb of Gyzaengaxx campaign here: https://shop.gooeycube.com/back/?attribution_code=GameTrendCheck out the Gaming Trend website for news, reviews, and more: https://gamingtrend.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gamingtrendCheck out our streams on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendAlso, chat with us on Discord: https://discord.gg/HXTeWMFSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailSeason 1 of Tabletop Throwdown starts with a BANG! This week we're looking at ten of our most anticipated tabletop titles coming out this year (not crowdfunding, these are games we should actually be able to play).  You won't want to miss our number one because we have a special surprise guest appearance! Got questions? Ideas for topics? email us at [email protected]!This podcast is sponsored by The Tomb of Gyzaengaxx, the Kickstarter for a new 5E D&D Campaign from GooeyCube and GaxxWork; Embark on a mega-adventure created with Luke Gygax and other legends of the game, celebrating the legacy of Gary Gygax in a story-driven campaign. Find out more about The Tomb of Gyzaengaxx campaign here: https://shop.gooeycube.com/back/?attribution_code=GameTrendCheck out the Gaming Trend website for news, reviews, and more: https://gamingtrend.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gamingtrendCheck out our streams on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendAlso, chat with us on Discord: https://discord.gg/HXTeWMFSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailThe crew is back from PAX Unplugged and can't wait to talk about the top ten games they saw at the show!  Hosts: Mike Dunn & Mark Julian00:07:05 Ironwood00:13:48 Luthier00:19:38 Stardriven: Gateway00:23:48 Molly House00:32:50 Vendetta00:36:00 Twinkle, Twinkle00:40:14 Thunder Road Vendetta: Carnival of Chaos00:44:30 Buttons & Bugs00:48:45 Sunjutsu00:53:47 Time DivisionWatch for us in January when we launch the first season of Tabletop Throwdown! We'll be going weekly with a little bit of tabletop news and a main topic or guest. You can send us your ideas for an episode topic at [email protected] thanks this episode to the PAX U 2023 Away Team: Mike Case, Steven Starkey, Cassie Peterson, Nick Dubs, and Sean Weeks. We'll be posting PAX U content through the end of the year, so keep an eye out!Check out the Gaming Trend website for news, reviews, and more: https://gamingtrend.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gamingtrendCheck out our streams on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendAlso, chat with us on Discord: https://discord.gg/HXTeWMFSubscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the very first pilot episode of GamingTrend's new Tabletop-centric podcast, Tabletop Throwdown! Mike Dunn, Dan Hinkin, and Mark Julian are here to give you the lowdown on the games they are most excited about at Pax Unplugged this year, and they might even drop some hints as to what we'll be covering from the expo hall floor!Subscribe for more gaming and gaming culture content: 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GamingTrendVideosNeed more? 🌐 Head on over to  https://gamingtrend.com📈 Subscribe to our weekly round-up newsletters: https://gamingtrend.com/#/portal/signup/freeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gamingtrend.comTwitter/X:  https://twitter.com/gamingtrendFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GamingTrend/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealgamingtrend/Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gamingtrendDiscord: https://discord.gg/T8jNjYP