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Roborally 2023 and 19 Crimes Martha’s Chard

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Board Games, Wine Tasting, and Midwest Gaming Classic Adventures

In this episode of Meeples and Wine, hosts Michael and Suzy return after a brief hiatus to share news of their appearance at the Midwest Gaming Classic 2024 in Milwaukee. They reminisce about their past experience at the event, interview highlights, and announce their plans for game demos, reviews, and more on the Meeples and Wine Tabletop stage. Following the event news, they dive into a wine tasting session featuring 19 Crimes Martha’s Chard from California, discussing its characteristics, pairing options, and their personal tasting notes. The episode shifts to a detailed review of RoboRally 2023, comparing it with previous editions, discussing its gameplay mechanics, and debating its impact on relationships. Lastly, they introduce an upcoming Kickstarter project, River Valley Glassworks, noting its cute premise and potential gameplay allure.

00:00 Welcome to Meeples and Wine: Midwest Gaming Classic Announcement
01:25 Tasting 19 Crimes Martha’s Chard: A Wine Review
04:54 Diving Into RoboRally 2023: Gameplay and Comparison
17:55 Diving Deep into Game Mechanics
23:22 Exploring Game Upgrades and Strategy
33:57 Wrapping Up with Final Thoughts and Future Plans

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

NaPodPomo 2023: 30 Days of Game Mechanics: Tile-Laying Games

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Today we are talking about tile-laying games. Tile-laying games are a type of board game where players build the board by placing tiles on it. This can be done to create a city, a farm, a forest, or any other kind of landscape or scene.

  • Look for scoring opportunities. When placing your tiles, try to think about how you can score points in multiple ways. For example, if you are placing a tile that completes a road, also see if it can help you complete a city or monastery.
  • Be aware of your opponents’ strategies. Try to anticipate what your opponents are trying to do and block them from completing their goals. For example, if you see that your opponent is close to completing a long road, try to place a tile that will prevent them from doing so.
  • Don’t be afraid to adapt. As the game progresses, the board will change and you may need to adapt your strategy. Be willing to change your plans if necessary.

Here are some additional tips for the three specific games mentioned in the podcast:

  • Carcassonne: Try to save your meeples for the later stages of the game, when there are more opportunities to score points. Also, don’t forget to consider the placement of your meeples when placing your tiles.
  • Azul: Try to plan ahead and think about how you can complete multiple patterns with a single tile placement. Also, be aware of the different scoring conditions for each pattern.
  • Kingdomino: Try to draft tiles that have a variety of features. This will give you more flexibility when placing your tiles and make it more difficult for your opponents to block you. Also, don’t forget to consider the placement of your castles when drafting tiles.

The Gargoyle Club, The Gargoyle, and Gargoyles

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Heading in for the haunting season we have our first on show mixed drink and get into the world of cocktails with “The Gargoyle.” This classic 1920s drink takes center stage as we uncover the history of the Gargoyle Club, a legendary haunt for bohemian aristocrats and socialites founded by David Tennant. We discuss the picture of this iconic club’s ambiance and its transformation over the years, including its famous elevator and notable visitors, from Fred Astaire to Nick Cave. We also discuss the interesting history of the Gargoyle Club, emphasizing its significance in the 1920s social scene and it’s place in recent history.

In this episode, we dove into the world of Disney’s Gargoyles Awakening board game, and it was quite the adventure. Gargoyles fans from the ’90s will appreciate the nostalgic trip back to New York with Goliath and the gang. The game had a good balance of strategy and action, although it could get a bit frustrating at times, especially when playing with just two players. The villains, particularly Demona, seemed a bit overpowered, making our battles challenging. We tried various strategies, like doubling up on characters, but it was still tough. The game’s components, including the detailed plastic figurines and the 3D buildings, added to the immersion. However, the board felt a bit cramped, and the rules could have been clearer. Overall, it’s a fun game, but it’s best enjoyed with more players to balance the action. We gave it a rating of 6.5 out of 10 and concluded that it’s worth a try for Gargoyles fans, even though it may have a few rough edges.

For our Last Call, Suzy has found a captivating mystery game called “The Great Tea Robbery,” which offers an immersive mystery adventure. This game features unique components like tea, porcelain bowls and cups, and a wooden box filled with intriguing ephemera. Players will unravel the mystery while retracing Robert Fortune’s journey through China, adding a historical and thrilling twist to the gameplay. It’s a high-quality experience with plenty of replayability, making it worth the investment.

Next, Michael discusses “Faceless Amusement Park,” a game that takes an eerie turn as players try to reclaim stolen memories from a demon haunting the park. The game uses a unique magnetic compass mechanism to control elements on the board. While the concept and visuals are appealing, we’re uncertain about how well the magnet feature functions in gameplay. He also mentions a related game, “Faceless,” with a similar magnetic mechanism. Overall, it’s an intriguing game with some mysteries of its own.

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Dragonrealm and Dragon’s Milk Tales of Gold

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Hello there married (or in a relationship) gamers! This week we’re diving into the fantastical world of the Dragonrealm card/dice game by Gamewright. Join me, Michael, and my wonderful wife Suzy as we gather our adventurers play our enhancements, fight our way through goblins and landslides as we claim our territories in this card and dice game.

dragonrealm

But that’s not all! As we explore the Dragonrealms, we’re sipping on Dragon’s Milk Tales of Gold beer, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to our gaming experience. (at least for Michael…) If you’re a married/relationship-enabled tabletop gamer couple looking for exciting games to enjoy together, along with some delightful wine or beer, this episode is tailor-made for you. Tune in for the perfect blend of gaming and relaxation.

This week’s Kickstarter finds! Suzanne has found Dark Tomb: Bloodthorn Island a dungeon crawler game that fits in your pocket, and it’s got a ship!

Michael has found the game of Flock Together, a city building survival game where you work with your fellow feathered friends to save all chickenkind!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Gloom and Horseshoes and Handgrenades

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Welcome to another exciting episode of Meeples and Wine! Join Michael and Suzanne in this episode, where we delve into the world of dark humor and indulgent sips as we review the Horseshoes and Handgrenades Red Blend wine and the captivating card game, Gloom by Atlas Games.

Our wine adventure takes us to Southern Oregon and Red Mountain Washington, where Maison Noir Wine’s Horseshoes and Handgrenades Red Blend awaits. This fruit-driven, full-bodied delight is a complex fusion of Oregon Syrah, Washington Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The result is a rich, ripe, and voluptuous blend that tantalizes the taste buds. Picture cherries with a hint of leather whips(?), a perfect combination for a night of gaming and laughter.

Speaking of gaming, we dive into the twisted world of Gloom. (That’s an associate link! Buy it and support us!) In this unique card game, players take control of misanthropic misfits ranging from serial killers to demonically possessed sociopaths. The goal? To make your characters as miserable as possible before their inevitable demise. Along the way, you’ll even have the opportunity to make your opponents’ characters horrendously happy. With each turn, players narrate the misfortunes and mishaps that befall their characters, creating hilariously dark and twisted tales.

Gloom’s award-winning gameplay is enhanced by its innovative transparent cards, which stack on top of each other to conceal and reveal the Self-Worth scores. The scoring system is refreshingly simple, and the gloomy artwork sets the perfect tone for a night of macabre entertainment. The game concludes when an entire family has met their demise, and the player with the lowest score emerges victorious, proving that their family was the most miserable in life.

Join us for this captivating episode as we sip on Horseshoes and Handgrenades Red Blend, exploring its luscious flavors, and embark on a journey through the darkly humorous world of Gloom. Laugh, lament, and revel in the misfortune of your characters as we uncover the secrets of this uniquely entertaining game.

So grab a glass, gather your friends, and prepare for an evening of laughter, misery, and delightful sips on Meeples and Wine!

Don’t forget to check out our Kickstarter Last Call, Suzy had No Rolls Barred’s Blood on the Clocktower season 2, and Michael has the new Crossbows & Catapults!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Chaos, Cards, and Corks: A Wild Review of Dungeon Mayhem & Girl and Dragon Malbec

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Hey there, fellow adventurers! Welcome to another exciting episode of “Meeples and Wine” Today, we’re delving into the magical world of Dungeon Mayhem, a thrilling card game brought to life by the creative minds of Jordan Comar and Roscoe Wetlaufer, with stunning illustrations by Kyle Ferrin. But that’s not all; we’re also uncorking a bottle of the enchanting “Girl and Dragon” Malbec from the heart of Mendoza, Argentina. So grab your dice and pour yourself a glass, as we embark on this thrilling quest!

First things first, Dungeon Mayhem brings an epic battle to your tabletop. The game is simple, fast-paced, and oozing with fun. We’ll talk about the mechanics, discussing the unique abilities of the various characters, the strategic choices you’ll make, and the overall gameplay experience. From the chaotic spells to the formidable attacks, this game keeps you on your toes and delivers a good time for both novice and seasoned gamers.

But let’s not forget about our trusty companion, the Girl and Dragon Malbec. Hailing from the wine-rich region of Mendoza, this Argentine gem adds a touch of sophistication to our gaming session. We’ll take a moment to savor the deep aromas of blackberries and dark chocolate, and let the velvety tannins dance on our palates. It’s a wine that perfectly complements the chaotic battles of Dungeon Mayhem, making every victory taste even sweeter.

So whether you’re a fan of tabletop games, a wine enthusiast, or simply seeking some good-natured entertainment, join us as we unravel the chaos of Dungeon Mayhem and sip our way through the tantalizing Girl and Dragon Malbec. Remember, it’s all about the journey, the camaraderie, and the shared moments that make gaming and wine so special. Cheers to an unforgettable episode!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Meeples & Wine 30 – Its Over

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Well, it is and it isn’t. #NaPodPomo is done, we have completed 30 shows in 30 days with two hours to go, and Michael & Suzy are done. With posting daily that is, we’re moving to a weekly show, with more time to prepare, and get some of the cool things that we’ve wanted to done! In this episode we talk about all such things, like demo videos, tours of wineries, shows at local game stores and having other gaming couples over to play! Do you have an idea for the weekly show, then tap that voicemail link below and let us know! We’ll be back soon!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Meeples & Wine 28 – Blackheart & Brawl

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Welcome to almost the end of the #NaPodPoMo month with episode 28! This time it’s Michael rolling solo one last time, with only 2 shows left to go before midnight! It’s a nail-biter of will they/won’t they?! He’s tasting Bell’s Black Hearted Ale, a darker than sin, IPA that in all honesty he didn’t think that he would enjoy, spoilers. He’s talking about the card game Brawl from 1999, a “A real-time card game of brawling martial artists.” where you’ve got everything from goth-waitresses, to catgirl fighters all going at it in a free for all fight to win three bases! It doesn’t sound too crazy, but considering that every game lasts roughly 30 seconds, it gets nuts pretty fast!

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/

Meeples & Wine #8! – SOLO WITH THE BASTARD!

8 Solo With The Bastard!
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Today Michael is running alone! Yes! He’s solo and without anyone to tell him what to do! So what does he do…well, samples Founder French Toast Bastard and talks about VonStiehl wineries in Algoma, Wisconsin, and then tells about “Before I Kill You, Mr. Spy” the card game from Cheapass Games, founded by James Ernest! (great game company BTW.)

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@javakat.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

Meeples & Wine 7 – Game Food & Dice Thrones

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Today we’ve hit episode number 7 of #NaPodPoMo! We’re discussing game food today, what food is best for those game nights? Finger food? Pizza? Cheetoes? Also we’ve gotten a request for our second demo night, the game Splendor! (If you’d like to watch the first one you can do that here, or listen here, as we demo Sushi Go!) Tonight we’re corking a bottle of Scarlet Path Zinfandel, a 2020 Lodi Zin from Aldi.

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@javakat.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

 

If you’ve got a game that you’d like us to demo get in touch at meeplesandwine@gmail.com, at our Twitter (@Meeplesandwine) or Facebook or if you’d like to leave us a voicemail you can go to 

https://www.speakpipe.com/MeeplesandWine!

You can also check out our quicklinks page! https://podcast.show/meeplesandwine/