About Cyrus

Editor in Chief, Owner/Operator, Board Game Fanatic, Father of Three, and Nice Guy, Cyrus has always enjoyed board, card, miniature, role playing, and video games, but didn't get back into the hobby seriously until early 2000. Once he did, however, he was hooked. He now plays board games with anyone and everyone he can, but enjoys playing with his children the most. Video games continue to be of real interest, but not as much as dice and little miniatures. As he carefully navigates the ins and outs of parenting, he does his very best to bestow what wisdom he has and help nurture his children's young minds. It is his hope and ambition to raise three strong, honorable men who will one day go on to do great things and buy their Mom and Dad a lobster dinner. Cyrus goes by the handle fathergeek on Board Game Geek. You can also check him out on CyrusKirby.com. Yes, he has a URL that is his name. His ego knows no bounds, apparently....

Eruption Game Review

In Eruption, players are trapped on an island paradise where the central volcano (that is, essentially, the island itself) is erupting. They must use what little materials they have to block the lava flows and redirect others into the sea, or preferably, rival villages. As the game progresses, it becomes more difficult with new eruptions on the island and even more lava spewing forth! The end result is a delightful little competitive game that plays fast, light, and is a whole lot of fun. Continue reading

Launch Pad Game Review

Launch Pad is an excellent light resource management and race game. There is surprising depth to Launch Pad that was a very pleasant surprise once I recognized it. The game length itself is spot on and allows for game correction and big payoffs if the player correctly calculates their risk vs. reward. The end result is a fantastic card game with a great theme, excellent mechanics, and accessible to all three geek groups. Outstanding! Continue reading

Game Suggestions for Little Geek Birthday Parties

A fellow fatherly geek writes to us asking, “Any thoughts on what some good party/board games would be at a Birthday Party for a 7-year-old and a group of about 8-10 kids? I was thinking some of them will play Pokemon but I wanted to cover the others.” Why, yes, we have a few thoughts that might help. Continue reading

Zombie Halloween Cake

This year, I thought I would do something different and scary for Halloween. I thought I’d bake. You should have seen the look of horror and disbelief in my wife’s eyes. Her concerns are well founded as I am something of a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde when it comes to cooking. Away from the kitchen, I am very calm and relaxed. In the kitchen, I am a wreck. Continue reading

Official Advanced Dungeons and Dragons Coloring Album (1979)!

The 1979 Official Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Coloring Album, illustrated by Greg Irons and written by Gary Gygax, is now available for you to go grab and share with your little geeks! Stop what you are doing…well…finish reading this first, but then stop what you are doing and go grab the coloring album! Continue reading

Gold Mine Game Review

In Gold Mine, players grab their mining tools and hard hats to venture forth into a dark gold mine to explore and discover riches. But beware! There are other miners in the tunnels who want the gold, too, and are not above taking it from you if the opportunity should present itself. Dig fast, collect the gold, and get out before anyone else to be declared the winner! Continue reading

Nerni Invents Clock Book Review

Nerni Invents Clock is a simple children’s story with whimsical art that depicts a young gnome inventor named Nerni. Nerni loves to invent things and eventually focuses her attention on inventing a clock to help her keep track of time. Not being satisfied with just any old clock, Nerni’s inventive natures compels her to improve her creation. By doing so, Nerni invents a clock that is a bit too smart for its own good. Continue reading

Orbit: Rocket Race 5000 Game Review

In Orbit: Rocket Race 5000, the players jump behind the wheel of a racing rocket ship and play an abstract strategy game where the final goal is to play your cards as fast as possible. Combining elements of Uno, tile matching, and special abilities with card combo playing, this game provides a fast and engaging light abstract strategy game. Continue reading

Jump Gate Game Review

Jump Gate is a wonderful game that plays light but provides a heavier game experience without feeling heavy or difficult. Few games can provide this level of play and experience without demanding a great deal from the player or falling short on the “fun scale”. I would highly recommend Jump Gate to friends, family, game elitists, and the occasional light gamer. Continue reading

Dicey Curves Game Review

In Dicey Curves, players jump behind the wheel and race each other, jockeying for position and control. While speed is important, a skilled driver knows that positioning is just as important, if not more so. This is a light strategy race game where luck and tactics go hand in hand. Expect quick play and surprisingly engaging game mechanics that will have you looking for the best path and approach to victory! Continue reading