March of the Ants: Minions of the Meadow Game Expansion Review (prepublished version)

English nature writer, Richard Jefferies, wrote “It would seem that the ant works its way tentatively, and, observing where it fails, tries another place and succeeds.” Ants are industrious and tenacious, never losing site of their goals. With this expansion, players are given additional opportunities and pathways to explore, but also new dangers to avoid. Nothing comes easy in the world of ants. Continue reading

Blend Off! Game Review (prepublished version)

It was a slow night at the diner. The night manager was about to tell everyone to close up, when a bus filled with high school students stopped near the entrance. Out pours a small army of kids who are hungry for just one thing: a smoothie. The diner comes to life and the blenders are plugged in. The goal is simple: make as many orders as you can, as fast as you can, without messing up. Continue reading

Crossworld: Oh My Gods Game Review (prepublished version)

Our world is full of wondrous and terrifying events. The clap of thunder could be the heavy hammer of a god smiting a troll and a fierce storm at sea could be the wrath of the lord of the oceans. The natural world around us plays host to many gods and goddesses who embody our fears and hopes. In this game, they come to life…and then go to war. Continue reading

Exposed Game Review (prepublished version)

You and several of your fellow thieves will be sneaking aboard a fancy yacht in hopes of robbing the party guests blind. But there is no honor among thieves, it would seem. While the goal it to get as much money as possible, the second objective is to pin everything on another thief. You must be quiet and you must be quick, or you’ll end up being tossed overboard. Continue reading

Tak Game Review (prepublished version)

Some say it’s the journey that matters most, while others will argue it’s the destination that’s the most important. Who is right and who is wrong? In this game, the destination for both players is the goal, but the journey is anything but straight forward. There is no path to follow other than the one you create. In the end, it will be the experience you remember most and benefit from. Continue reading

Aether Captains Game Review (prepublished version)

The difference between good and evil is based on perspective. The Empire views the sky pirates as a plague that threatens life and property. From the sky pirates’ perspective, the Empire is a ruthless dictatorship bent on repressing the people. Only one thing is for certain and mutually agreed upon. The skies above Arkady are worth fighting and dying for. Continue reading

Sector Prime Game Review (prepublished version)

What drives us to explore space? For some, it’s the yearning to learn more about ourselves. For others, it’s a chance to escape. For you, it’s about making money. A new Gold Rush is on, with massive robotic refiners and battle-ready mining drones doing the work of men. The competition is fierce and the stakes are high. Greed is a powerful motivator. Continue reading

The Goonies: Adventure Card Game (prepublished version)

The Goonies is a movie I remember fondly from my childhood. I have watched it many times throughout the years and have shared it with my kids, too. The movie captures the wonder, excitement, and danger of being a child…with pirates…and crooks. Will the game? Let’s find out. Continue reading

Scuttle! Game Review (prepublished version)

When it comes to gold, pirates will do anything. “Risk it all to take it all” is the pirates’ motto. They’ll jump through fire to grab a gold piece and sail to unknown shores to find more. A pirate counts their worth not by deeds, but by the weight of their treasure. In this game, a player wins by simply being the richest, but that is not an easy task when surrounded by pirates. Continue reading

Robots: Battle for the Coal Heart Game Review (prepublished version)

For the robots in Coal Pit 12A-4, life was an endless job of digging up the ground. Then something happened. Instead of coal, one of the robots found a mysterious black crystal the radiated power and the promise of a better existence. For the first time, each robot felt greed and an overpowering need to own the black crystal. Emotions were not part of their programming. Continue reading

Pack O Games (Set 2) Game Review (prepublished version)

When you imagine a game full of depth, tactics, and strategy, a game with many bits that is stored in a box most likely comes to mind. But what if a game could be no bigger than a stick of gum and still provide you with everything you crave from larger games? Impossible you say? Then prepare to be amazed as I show you how a game small in stature plays like a giant at the gaming table. Continue reading

Flag Dash Game Review (prepublished version)

To capture is to control. To control is to conquer. To conquer is to win. This is the goal of every player who attempts to capture the flag of their opponent. Working as a team, you must avoid being caught and grab the prize. The winner gets milk and cookies! Continue reading