Dice Camera Action

It’s a solo episode as Mat recaps a truly chaotic few weeks—featuring a massive snowstorm, a car wreck that took him off the road, and somehow… two board game conventions.Through it all, there were still games to be played and (more importantly) games to be bought. Mat runs down the highlights from both cons, including what hit the table, what stood out, and what made its way into the collection.

Mat is joined by Jeff Madigan (The Mad Board Gamer) for an episode all about the magic of two-player games—tight decisions, head-to-head tension, and just the right amount of friendly rivalry. We break down some of our favorite 2-player experiences and what makes them shine.Then things get completely unhinged as we dive into Face/Off, the gloriously over-the-top action classic where identities are swapped, doves are in slow motion and subtlety is nowhere to be found.It’s a tale of two players, two faces, and way too much face touching—because sometimes the best matchups are strictly 1v1… even if you come out the other side as someone else.https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

On this episode, Mat is joined by acclaimed board game designer Daryl Andrews for a deep dive into space capitalism gone wrong.We’re pairing the chaotic survival strategy of Moon Colony Bloodbath with the existential, clone-filled corporate nightmare of Mickey 17. We talk expendable employees, hostile environments, and the implications of swapping worker placement for worker replacement. Daryl brings designer insight to the table, breaking down the mechanics behind surviving (or not surviving) on the moon, while Mat tries to determine whether it’s worse to mismanage your colony… or to be printed as Employee #17.https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

It’s our big 2025 wrap-up episode! Mat and Joel team up as cohosts for a special year-end rundown of our Top 5 Movies and Top 5 Games of 2025. From cinematic standouts to tabletop obsessions, we break down what stuck with us, what surprised us, and what completely took over our free time.Of course, we couldn’t stop at five—so we’re also handing out honorable mentions and shining a spotlight on our favorite non-movie, non-game media of the year. And to make it even better, friends of the show drop in via short video messages to share their own favorites of 2025.

Mat is joined by game designer Danielle Reynolds for an episode that’s all about Vikings, dragons, and really funny names. Together they revisit How to Train Your Dragon—both the animated classic and its live-action counterpart—before turning their attention to Looot, a clever board game about collecting axes, gold and sheep while politely pillaging everything in sight. It’s a friendly clash of film and cardboard as the crew talks adaptation, design, and why training a dragon might actually be easier than collecting the perfect tiles.https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Mat is back in the host’s chair and Jason finally returns from a long, mysterious hiatus—just in time for an episode all about lies, logic, and confidently accusing the wrong person. This week we break down Awkward Guests, the deduction board game that turns polite conversation into weaponized information, and pair it with Netflix’s Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.Clues are exchanged, theories are formed, and confidence is misplaced—often. Whether at the table or on the screen, we explore why solving a mystery is never as easy as it looks… especially when Jason’s been gone this long.Rian Johnson's "Q" interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyUsVMBT4cUhttps://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Mat, Isaac and Joel get together for a Pax-U Recap and somehow discover a hidden talent for re-naming random things. https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Join Mat and Chris as they dive into Planet Unknown, breaking down what makes this polyomino game stand out. Then they head into deep space for a rewatch of Ridley Scott’s Alien — exploring why it still stands as one of the greatest sci-fi horror films ever made.A mix of strategy, suspense, and maybe even a little screaming…https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

This week, Mat is joined by guest host Ryan Campbell from the Trick Talkers podcast — a true trick-taking expert — as we dive into Stonemaier’s brand new trick-taking release, Origin Story. We break down how it plays, how it fits in the trick-taking landscape, and why this one might actually feel like a “superpower draft” in card form.To pair with it, we revisit Chronicle — the found-footage superhero film where ordinary teens discover extraordinary powers… and then, predictably, use them in all the wrong ways.Card powers, psychic chaos, and a surprising amount of thematic overlap — "Do I look like a guy with a plan?"

This week, Mat and Joel (aka The Diced Onion) dive deep into Citizens of the Spark, where players build cities powered by invention, teamwork, and probably some questionable safety standards. To pair with all that mad science energy, we’re watching The Island of Dr. Moreau — a movie so bonkers it makes you wonder who let the monkey have final cut?We talk about the fine line between creativity and chaos, what makes a “good” citizen, and why Marlon Brando’s ice bucket hat might just be cinema’s greatest invention.https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

To enter the giveaway listen to this episode and head to :https://www.instagram.com/p/DPjf6o8AOnL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

In this episode, Mat, Jason, and Jim take on Vantage, the hot new release from Stonemaier Games, and dive into the prehistoric chaos of Adam Driver’s 65. But the real highlight? A special interview with Jamey Stegmaier himself—where he not only shares insights on design and publishing but also drops a surprise announcement about a brand-new Stonemaier game.https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Mat and Andrew are joined by guest host Tom from Tabletop Misfits to tackle a futuristic double feature. First, they review Skyrise, the city-building board game of lofty ambitions and dazzling skylines. Then, they dive into Elysium, Neill Blomkamp’s high-concept sci-fi about class divides, orbital utopias, and questionable accents. Can these visions of the future hold up under scrutiny—or do they come crashing down to earth?https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

In this episode, Isaac and Andrew dive 6 feet deep into Ofrenda, one of Gen Con’s hottest new releases, and pair it with Pixar’s Coco. From honoring ancestors at the table to celebrating family on screen, we explore whether both the game and the movie capture themes of memory, tradition, and connection.https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Mat is joined by Joel “The Diced Onion” Karpowitz and Isaac to relive their Gen Con 2025 adventures! From crowded halls to hot new game releases, they share highlights, surprises, and all the buzz from the biggest board game convention in North America. If you couldn’t make it to Gen Con, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with stories, laughter, and a rundown of the games everyone’s talking about.

This week, Mat is joined by Shawn Holt from Allies or Enemies as they brave the cold corporate void of the moon. We review Shackleton Base, a heavy euro full of modularity and power rangers? Then we shift gears into Duncan Jones’ Moon (2009), a smart, moody sci-fi about clones, and the creeping dread of isolation. It’s a journey through lunar burnout, questionable ethics and a monotone AI robot named Gerty. DCA link tree: https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpodLast Week of Summer Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alliesorenemies/last-week-of-summer?ref=android_project_shareAllies or Enemies youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlliesorEnemies

On This episode, things get just a little steamy when Mat and Andrew are joined by special guest Joel Karpowitz (a.k.a. The Diced Onion) for a walk on the wild side! We explore the woodland matchmaking of Forest Shuffle and the heartfelt chaos of Where the Wild Things Are.https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

This week, we saddle up and deal in with a rootin’-tootin’ review of Tiny Epic Western, the pocket-sized showdown full of poker hands, posse placement, and resource wranglin’. Then we take a sharp turn from cardboard saloons to cinematic bloodbaths with a look at Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained. From silent showdowns to explosive vengeance, we’re talking westerns in all their gritty glory — both tiny and epic.  

Strap in for a wild ride across the galaxy! In this episode, we dive into the interstellar engine-building chaos of Andromeda’s Edge — and we’re not alone. We’re joined by the game’s designers, Luke and Maximus Laurie, for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a sci-fi epic on your tabletop. Then, we drop into the bug-blasting madness of Starship Troopers, where satire meets space marines in the goriest recruitment video ever made. It’s faction-building, alien-smashing, and resource-optimizing mayhem — and yes, we’re doing our part.

This episode takes us deep into the West Kingdom, where we scheme, build, and tax our way through Architects of the West Kingdom. Then things get heavier as we unpack Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel — a gripping and grim tale of honor, injustice, and conflicting truths. Fair warning: the movie discussion tackles some dark subject matter, but we handle it with care and thoughtfulness. Medieval intrigue, moral dilemmas, and worker placement — what more could you want?

In this episode, Mat and guest host Isaac dive into the sleek, strategic world of the 2-player card game Compile, does it compute or crash? Then they shift gears into sci-fi cinema with a review of Denis Villeneuve’s Blade Runner 2049. Neon dreams, AI angst, and plenty of opinions await.https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Mat is joined by special guest host Ryan James as we discuss our favorite small games and the instant classic Everything Everywhere All At Once.

While Jason is off on vacation using his multipass, Mat has invited Andrew Stiles to join the conversation about the exciting new release, Galactic Cruise! We have a special treat this episode, as we've got guest appearances from the talented designers behind Galactic Cruise. Join us as we journey to Fhloston Paradise to meet Corbon Dallas, Leeloo, and Ruby Rhod, and dive into discussions about the cult classic space opera, "The Fifth Element." Tune in for an exciting ride!

With the recent death of Val Kilmer, we decided to drop our previously recorded episode featuring the classic western Tombstone and what better game to pair it with than Western Legends!

Mat attended Nerdfest in Novi, Michigan on the weekend. Listen for a rapid fire breakdown of all the games he played and purchased!https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

On this episode Mat and Jason discuss the critically acclaimed Robert Eggers gothic horror Nosferatu as well as a great little two player game which pins Dracula against the famed vampire hunter Van Helsing. Will evil prevail? Listen and find out!

Its awards season and as the Oscars approach we sat down and discussed everything Oscars: Nominations, predictions, favorites etc...Keeping in theme our feature game review is Hollywood 1947.I swear i'm not a commie!!https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Andrew Stiles joins Jason and Mat to review the original Kickstarter, "Viticulture" and have paired with a chat about the 2008 film "Bottle Shock".

Mat and Jason run down their top 5 games and top 10 movies of 2024. https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Ladies and Gentlemen, step right up and prepare to be amazed, baffled, flabbergasted and hypnotized! In this episode Jason and Mat discuss the hit card game "Scout" and the Guillermo Del Toro movie "Nightmare Alley". https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Who's coming to your house this Christmas, Santa or Krampus? How does Dice Throne fit into the 1v1 genre of gaming? Does Krampus deserve a spot on your annual Christmas watch list? Jason and Mat discuss this and more on this special holiday entry of Dice Camera Action. Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dicecameraactionpod

Take a deep breath cause on this episode Mat and special guest host Jeff Madigan take a deep dive into the the critically acclaimed "Underwater Cities" by Valadamir Suchy. The movie we chose to discuss was the box office disaster "Waterworld" starring Kevin Costner... Was it as bad as its reputation would suggest? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/HsbWQ68iB2Mh7XJr/ Discord: https://discord.gg/BWvsW6zv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qdEe883BfnB7qqYCLS8gy?si=1943309828844c36 Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dice-camera-action/id1770292392 RSS feed: https://anchor.fm/s/facd2724/podcast/rss Youtube: www.youtube.com/@DiceCameraAction01 Mat’s Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/Couz/ Jason’s Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/trippadvisor/

Are you not entertained!? Jason and Mat head to Rome and discuss the underrated 2 player deck builder "For Glory" which turned out to be the perfect pairing for a recent blockbuster epic "Gladiator II". Does it live up to the masterpiece that was Gladiator or does it jump the shark and fall short? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/HsbWQ68iB2Mh7XJr/ Discord: https://discord.gg/BWvsW6zv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qdEe883BfnB7qqYCLS8gy?si=1943309828844c36 Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dice-camera-action/id1770292392 RSS feed: https://anchor.fm/s/facd2724/podcast/rss Youtube: www.youtube.com/@DiceCameraAction01 Mat’s Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/Couz/ Jason’s Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/trippadvisor/

In space no one can hear you flip the table! Shelly Carter joins Jason and Mat as a special guest host to discuss Kuiperium and Christopher Nolan's sci-fi epic Interstellar. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/HsbWQ68iB2Mh7XJr/ Discord: https://discord.gg/BWvsW6zv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qdEe883BfnB7qqYCLS8gy?si=1943309828844c36 Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dice-camera-action/id1770292392 RSS feed: https://anchor.fm/s/facd2724/podcast/rss Youtube: www.youtube.com/@DiceCameraAction01 Mat’s Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/Couz/ Jason’s Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/trippadvisor/

Happy Halloween! In this special episode Mat and Jason dive deep into Mike Flanagan's "Midnight Mass" limited series which was paired with the hidden movement, one vs all board game: "Beast". Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/HsbWQ68iB2Mh7XJr/ Discord: https://discord.gg/BWvsW6zv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qdEe883BfnB7qqYCLS8gy?si=1943309828844c36 Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dice-camera-action/id1770292392 RSS feed: https://anchor.fm/s/facd2724/podcast/rss Youtube: www.youtube.com/@DiceCameraAction01 Mat’s Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/Couz/ Jason’s Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/trippadvisor/

Follow us down the rabbit hole as we discuss Wonderland's War and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless mind. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/HsbWQ68iB2Mh7XJr/ Discord: https://discord.gg/BWvsW6zv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qdEe883BfnB7qqYCLS8gy?si=1943309828844c36 Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dice-camera-action/id1770292392 RSS feed: https://anchor.fm/s/facd2724/podcast/rss Youtube: www.youtube.com/@DiceCameraAction01

In this episode we are off to the red planet as we take a look at the 2015 hand management / area control board game Mission Red Planet in conversation with the Ridley Scott film The Martian starring Matt Damon and also released in 2015. First we discuss what we've been playing/watching (7:35) before we get into our discussion about the game Mission Red Planet (21:00) and the film The Martian (49:20)

Better late than never! Mat and special guest Andrew Styles discuss their experiences at GenCon 2024! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/HsbWQ68iB2Mh7XJr/ Discord: https://discord.gg/BWvsW6zv

Get your stillsuits on and stay hydrated as we head to Arrakis! Jason and Mat discuss Dune Imperium, Dune Imperium Uprising and both Parts 1 & 2 of Dune, Denis Villeneuve's latest epic Sci-fi blockbuster.

Welcome to Dice Camera Action, a mashup podcast where each episode we discuss a tabletop board game and pair it with a movie with thematic overlap. In this 'table setter' first episode we discuss the vision for the podcast as well as our personal stories and how we fell in love with board games and movies. We're going to drop an episode per week at first, then we'll settle into a once every two week rotation for new episodes! For feedback or suggestions for future board game/movie episodes send us an email at [email protected]