Author: Brendan

Listen on Spreaker! Brendan continues his discussion of the idea of free riders and how they appear in games.  He ponders the fact that games allow for a different moral or ethical code to come into play, and wonders if that

In this first of two part episodes, Brendan talks about the “free-rider” economic model and the nature of freemium programs, donor programs, and the relationship of content to cost.  In episode two, he’ll talk about how the free-rider model can

Brendan discusses games he has that have elaborate components and what effect those components have on the experience of playing them. Games mentioned: Recently played: Carnival Zombie, Crystal Clans Century: Golem edition Anachrony Arkham Horror: LCG Stonemaier fancy bits Food Chain Magnate

Brendan shares his system for managing and tracking his gameplays, and introduces a new monthly segment, Top of the Stack. (Nod to Podcast of Nonsensical Gamers for their creation of this segment.) Notes:  Top of the Stack list Ravenous River

Brendan shares his thoughts about what makes a game “burn your brain” and which games like that are his favorite ones. Games mentioned: Bunny Kingdom Mottainai Last Will AquaSphere Trickerion

Brendan discusses the Annie Jacobsen book, Operation Paperclip: The Secret Intelligence Program that Brought Nazi Scientists to America. He reflects on how games can simulate the murky morality of this kind of activity, and whether that can be fun in a game.

Brendan discusses his gaming experiences at an academic conference last week. Not a deep episode, but a nice chat with a pal while out on a walk. Also, Brendan’s “secret” to winning 7 Wonders. Games mentioned: Two Rooms and a Boom

In this episode, Brendan tells stories of five times his game experiences went wrong. A little bit of humor and a little bit of reflection help him recall these stories and discuss what can be learned from them. Sherlock Holmes

Brendan discusses another designer he enjoys who holds a prominent place in his collection. Today, it’s Antoine Bauza. Significant mentions: Tokaido Takenoko Hanabi 7 Wonders Bruce Glassco Ghost Stories Listen below or download the audio file: 025: Antoine Bauza (mp3)

Brendan is preparing for an academic conference and thinking about what games he’ll bring to game night. What games would you bring for a group of academics who may or may not have played any hobby board games? Happy Salmon