Space Nexus Game Review (Prepublished Version)

Humanity has discovered a means to travel through space fast enough to reach distant galaxies. The great space race has begun, with captains taking to their ships and probing the furthest reaches, finding adventure and riches. But there is danger. Others covet treasure and will take any opportunity to gain an advantage. There is also the threat of a new alien species that is growing increasingly interested in Earth and its resources. It is a new age of adventure and danger. Space is open to all to explore. Just cross your fingers you don’t find something that wants to blow you to atoms. Continue reading

Secret Hoard Game Review (Prepublished Version)

Indian teacher, philosopher, and royal adviser, Chanakya, wrote, “The biggest guru-mantra is: never share your secrets with anybody. It will destroy you.” In this game, secrets are necessary to win. Collect your cards in secret and be careful not to inform your opponents of your intent. Subtlety might be needed, but of even greater importance is staying agile and knowing that when you collect to your secret hoard, no one way is a sure victory. Continue reading

Time Fenix Game Review (Prepublished Version)

The great Stoic philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca the Younger said, “A gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a man perfected without trials.” In this game, players will test their strategic and tactical thinking, learn from their mistakes, and rejoice in even the most minor victories. As they navigate maze after maze to find its center and a terrible enemy, they must learn how to manage their resources and, more importantly, their expectations. Risk it all and dive deeper into an abandoned underground facility in one last desperate chance to save all existence. Continue reading

A Cure for What Ails You Game Review (prepublished version)

Medicine in the 1800s was a loosely defined and highly rudimentary practice of dangerous chemical components, ignorance of the human body, and a lot of guesswork. This was when medical professionals were still trying to figure out how best to serve, and charlatans easily duped the sick with promises of quick cures and miracles. It’s here, at this time, that the players find themselves setting up shop in New Orleans, Louisiana. The population is extensive, and there are graveyards right outside the backdoor. There are plenty of opportunities to practice medicine and the quick con. Just ensure your questionable approach to healing doesn’t put too many patients six feet under. Continue reading

SKUNK’D Game Review (prepublished version)

Every family has a “family game.” One that they either created themselves from scratch or taken from another game. Either way, the results are something familiar enough to easily allow anyone to learn how to play and unique enough to be a particular part of a family’s collective memory. This game does just that by taking a tried and true game many have played and adding a personal touch passed down through generations. And like all loved things, they only become more significant and grow when shared with others. Continue reading

13th Street Crew Game Review (prepublished version)

It’s not personal. It’s business. Yeah, you may break a rule or two, even several laws. And, sure, you sometimes have to flex a bit of muscle when you smile, but it’s never personal. It’s about the money and the power and the respect. If you want your crew to be recognized before the Old Don, you must show you can earn. Take the jobs and cash in, but be careful. Greed has a way of making friends into enemies. Just keep telling yourself it’s only business. But if you need to, make it personal. Continue reading

Shut Up, Cat! Game Review (prepublished version)

English humorist, satirist, and author of fantasy novels, best known for his Discworld series, Terry Pratchett said, “In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.” If you have ever owned a cat or even been around one for any length of time, you know that these four-legged domesticated pets have an air of superiority and a level of confidence that far outweighs their abilities. To say they are willful creatures is a gross understatement to extreme extremes. That said, they are also lovable and compassionate. In this game, the family’s beloved cat makes a lot of noise when the rest of the family attempts to sleep. Good luck trying to change the cat’s mind that it’s quiet time. Continue reading

Monster Kegger Game Review (prepublished version)

American author and Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame instructor of pool and carom billiards, Robert Byrne, said, “Partying is such sweet sorrow.” Truly, throwing a party and being at a party takes work. You have to be energetic, personable, and approachable. Or not, and sit in the corner sulking while everyone around you has fun. In this game, you must try to keep everyone at your party happy, and the only way to do that is to ensure you have the right food and drink available. The catch? Your guests are monsters and have particular likes and dislikes. You and your opponent are competing to see who can throw the best party for these monsters! Continue reading

Rebuild Refuge : Zombie Apocalypse (prepublished version)

In this game, players must gather as many survivors as possible and stay safe while the world outside is nuked to eradicate a virus that turns people into zombies. These shambling undead continually attack the players’ small and poorly protected bunkers, and the refugees do not trust each other. It’s a game of survival and crowd-control, as players must navigate attacks from within and without. Continue reading

Paraphrase: Songs in Other Words Game Review (prepublished version)

To paraphrase is to use different words to express a previously written or communicated idea or body of work. Sometimes these paraphrases let others say something in a way that is more relevant to their audience, or they can be used to provide insightful wit. In all cases, paraphrases come down to disguising something already well defined or named in a cloak of thick ambiguity. In this game, players will be challenged to take the paraphrase and deduce the actual title of a song. Extra points if you can sing it, too! Continue reading

Flank!: Battle for Fairfield Game Review (prepublished version)

The peaceful village of Fairfield lies in a lush valley surrounded by healthy farms and livestock. Those who live in the village are prosperous and happy. However, two armies hungrily eye the village, coveting it as their own. Now Fairfield has become the epicenter of chaos and violence where once only peace and tranquility were found. The two armies will fight to the end to possess the village, but which will win, and what will be the valley’s fate after the swords stop clashing? That is up to you, but only if you win the day. Continue reading

Fishing Race Game Review (prepublished version)

The fishing industry is highly competitive and dangerous. It’s also highly lucrative. The risks are often outweighed by the wealth one can obtain by having a single successful season. But like all resources, there are limits to availability. In this game, all the players will be simultaneously attempting to catch as many fish as possible. Time is limited, and so is the supply of fish! Continue reading