Traintopia Game Review

Co-founder of Pixar and president of Walt Disney Animation Studios, Edwin Catmull, said, "Driving the train doesn't set its course. The real job is laying the track." In this game, players take on the responsibility of doing just that. They will build an extensive network of rails, stations, and sites to see along the way. The goal is to connect, but more importantly, connect with a purpose and to provide value. A lesson we can all benefit from, both at and away from the gaming table.

Pirates of Gold Cove Game Review

Captain Samuel Bellamy (also known as"Black Sam" Bellamy), an English pirate who operated in the early 18th century, said, "Nations rob the poor under the cover of law. Pirates plunder the rich under the cover of their own courage!" In this game, you'll play as a pirate captain with your crew in search of treasure! The goal is to be as rich as possible, but don't let the lure of gold make you blind. Play your cards smart, and Lady Luck might smile upon you.

Stringamajig Game Review

French fashion designer best known for his signature high-heeled stiletto shoes, Christian Louboutin, said, "I am very bad at drawing. Seriously. I can draw shoes. That's about it." Drawing is an art form and a talent a few have made into a career. Not to toot my own horn, but I have drawn a damn good stick-person (which no one is willing to pay for). In this game, your artistic skill - present or not - will be tested as you attempt to use a bit of uncooperative string to illustrate a simple word. This is a game full of creativity and hilarity. An artist you need not be, but you best bring your patience.

Dungeon Drop Game Review

Exploring dungeons takes time and work. You have to get your party in order, gear up, and then make sure everyone is set to arrive at the dungeon's precipice at the same time. It's a lot like trying to get the kids up, fed, and out to school. Huh... Anyway, in this game, you can put aside all that prepping nonsense and jump right into dungeons deep. Deal a few cards and drop some cubes. BOOM! Instant dungeon! But like all raids into dark places full of nasty beasts, you'll have to have your wits about you and some luck to spend!

Letter Jam Game Review

English novelist and essayist, journalist and critic, George Orwell (whose real name is Eric Arthur Blair - fun fact), said: "Language ought to be the joint creation of poets and manual workers." In this game, players will work together to put together a series of clues - both seen and unseen - to help each player solve their word puzzle. It's a game that takes communication and teamwork, guessing and deduction, and, most importantly, is specific to each player's vocabulary skills!

Horseshoes and Hand Grenades Game Review (prepublished version)

One of the United States' most respected former basketball coaches, Dick Motta, said "War is the only game in which it doesn't pay to have the home-court advantage." In this game of war, where the soldiers the players will command are literally thrown and tossed into the warzone, there is no advantage to be gained. Victory is simply a matter of luck and good timing.