Meeple Nation Board Game Podcast

Episode 602: January 2026 Turn One

 

Episode release date is January 7, 2026

 

Show Notes

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar

Direct download: MN_602_January_Turn_One.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 601: December 2025 Bonus Round

 

Episode release date is December 31, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty) 2025 Edition!

Direct download: MN_601_December_Bonus_Episode.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 11:04pm MST

Episode 600: December 2025 Turn Two

 

Episode release date is December 17, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

New Game Radar

Direct download: MN_600_December_Turn_Two.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 599: December 2025 Turn One

 

Episode release date is December 3, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar

 

Direct download: MN_599_December_2025_Turn_One.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 10:28pm MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 598: November 2025 Turn Two

 

Episode release date is November 19, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar






Direct download: MN_598_November_Turn_Two.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 1:00am MST

Episode 597: November 2025 Turn One

Episode release date is November 5, 2025

 Show Notes

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar





Direct download: MN_597_November_2025_Turn_One.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 1:00am MST

Episode 596: October 2025 Bonus Round (Gift Guide)

 

Episode release date is October 29, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

Gift Ideas for the Gamers in your World

Nathan

Doug

Andy

Amberlee

 

Direct download: MN_596_October_Bonus_Round_Gift_Guide.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 595: October 2025 Turn Two

 

Episode release date is October 15, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar

 

Direct download: MN_595_October_2025_Turn_Two.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 594: October 2025 Turn One

Episode release date is October 1, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar

Direct download: MN_594_October_Turn_One.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 593: September 2025 Turn Two

Episode release date is September 17, 2025

Show Notes

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar

Nathan

Doug

 

Direct download: MN_593_September_2025_Turn_Two.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 9:09pm MST

Episode 592: September 2025 Turn One

Episode release date is September 03, 2025

 

Show Notes

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

New Game Radar

 

Direct download: MN_592_September_2025_Turn_One.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 591: August 2025 Turn Two

Episode release date is August 20, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we kick off our new format.

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

New Game Radar

 

Direct download: MN_August_2025_Turn_Two.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 590: Meeple Nation August 2025 News 

 

Show Notes 

 

Episode release date is August 13, 2025

 

It is time again for our news episode. We will be talking about some gaming highlights, new games, new game announcements, and we may even manage to get to some crowdfunding games too. 

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World’s Okayest Podcast.

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights

  • Andy

    • Kids

  • Nathan

    • Life Update

  • Douglas

    • Hawaii

 

This episode as with all of our news episodes is broken into three sections. New Game releases: games that can now be found in the wild, new game acquisitions, and games we are eager to try. Game announcements: This is a list of games that are fulfilling maybe and have not yet reached the store shelves, unless it is a CMON game then it is on the game shelf and backers are waiting disgruntled. New game announcements also include games that are in late production and will be released at a future time. Crowdfunding is games that have piqued our interest and maybe have even been backed by us. So with that, let's turn to the table and see what games we are talking about today.





Direct download: MN_590_August_2025_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 9:56pm MST

Episode 589: Player Elimination Games

Episode release date is July 30, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are discussing Player Elimination Games. This is not a mechanic we all love, but we have a surprising amount of player elimination games.

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

The Player Elimination mechanic is one where one or more players are removed from the game before it officially ends. This can happen with two players or 16. When a player is eliminated, they typically can no longer take actions, score points, or influence the outcome, and must simply observe the rest of the game unfold.

This mechanic can create tension and urgency, as players try to avoid being eliminated and race to stay in the game. However, it can also lead to long periods of downtime for eliminated players. So lets turn to the game table and see who gets eliminated.

 

Player Elimination Games

Direct download: MN_589_Player_Elimination_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 588: Pick-up and Delivery Games

Episode release date is July 23, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we complete our discussion of Pick up and Delivery games. So, we are going to line up a bunch of games and choose some to discuss.

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

Top Pickup and Delivery Games on BGG

 

 

 

Direct download: MN_588_Pick_Up_and_Delivery_Games_we_Missed.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 12:00am MST

Direct download: MN_587_Our_Top_Five_Pickup_and_Delivery_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 586: Pickup and Delivery Games

Episode release date is July 9, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we kick off our discussion of pickup and deliver games. So, we are going to line up a bunch of games and choose some to discuss.

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

  • Nathan

Sequoia

  • Sequoia is a quick, light dice-rolling and area majority game where players compete to grow the tallest trees in 11 different "forests."

  • Objective: Have the tallest tree (most tree tokens) in as many forests as possible to score victory points.

  • Over 10 turns, all players simultaneously roll five dice. They then secretly form two pairs from four of those dice (leaving one die unused). The sum of each pair determines which "forest" (numbered 2-12) they can place a tree token in.

  • Strategy: You have to decide whether to focus on a few forests to dominate them, or spread your efforts to secure second-place consolation prizes.

  • After 10 turns, the player with the most trees in a forest gets the first-place points, and the second-place player gets a smaller consolation prize. Ties are resolved with special tie-breaker rounds.

  • Quick and Portable: Sequoia is known for its fast gameplay (around 10-15 minutes) and small box size, making it easy to bring to game nights.

Switchback

  • Switchback is a quick and engaging tile-laying board game where players are trying to create the longest continuous paths of numbers (representing hiking trails up a mountain).

  • Score the most points by having your "hikers" on tiles that form continuous numerical sequences of four or more tiles.

  • Players take turns placing a tile from their hand onto the board. After placing a tile, they either place one of their hikers on that tile, or "buddy up" two of their hikers for a future double move.

  • You'll constantly be making choices like:

    • Where to place your tile to extend your own paths or block opponents.

    • When to place a hiker versus buddying them up for a better placement later.

    • Whether to join an opponent's path to share points or create your own.

  • At the end of the game (when all tiles are placed), only hikers on paths of four or more consecutive numbers score points.

  • Simple rules but tough decisions, all with a quick playtime (10-20 minutes).

 

 

This week we are kicking off our discussion of pickup and delivery games. The "Pick-up and Delivery" (P&D) mechanic in board games is a core gameplay loop where players acquire specific items or units from one location on the game board and then transport them to another designated location to complete an objective or earn points. It's a fundamental concept that simulates logistics, trade, and transportation challenges within a game's theme.

Here's a breakdown of its characteristics and how it's used:

Core Characteristics of Pick-up and Delivery:

  1. Goods/Passengers/Resources: There's always something to be picked up.

  2. Pick-up Locations (Sources): Designated spots on the board where the goods originate. These can be:

    • Fixed locations: Factories, farms, cities, ports.

    • Player-controlled locations: A player's own production buildings.

    • Dynamically generated: Cards drawn that specify a pick-up point.

  3. Delivery Locations (Destinations): Designated spots where the goods need to be dropped off. 

  4. Movement/Transportation: Players use their game pieces (vehicles, ships, trains, pawns representing workers) to move from the pick-up location to the delivery location. This often involves:

    • Movement costs: Spending actions, money, or specific movement points.

    • Route planning: Deciding the most efficient or strategic path.

    • Obstacles/Competition: Other players, terrain, or events that impede movement or make certain routes less desirable.

  5. Capacity Limits: Players usually have a limited capacity for how many items they can carry at once, forcing strategic decisions about what to pick up and when.

  6. Reward/Completion: Successfully delivering an item typically grants:

    • Victory points: The most common form of reward.

    • Money or resources: To fund further actions.

    • Unlocking new abilities: Access to new routes or upgrades.

    • Advancing on a track: Progressing towards an endgame condition.

The P&D mechanic is incredibly versatile and appears in many genres:

  1. Logistics and Trade Games:

    • Theme: Often about managing a transportation network or economy.

  2. Economic Games:

    • Theme: Focus on resource management, production, and supply chains.

  3. Adventure and Quest Games:

    • Theme: Characters embarking on journeys, completing tasks, or rescuing individuals.

  4. Worker Placement Games (often integrated):

    • Theme: Players assigning workers to perform actions.

Overall, the Pick-up and Delivery mechanic adds a layer of logistical challenge and strategic depth to board games, forcing players to think about movement, resource management, and timing to achieve their objectives.

 

Pickup and Delivery Games

 

Direct download: MN_586_Pickup_and_Delivery_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 585: Meeple Nation July 2025 News 

 

Show Notes 

 

Episode release date is July 2, 2025

 

It is time again for our news episode. We will be talking about some gaming highlights, new games, new game announcements, and we may even manage to get to some crowdfunding games too. 

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World’s Okayest Podcast.



Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights

 

This episode as with all of our news episodes is broken into three sections. New Game releases: games that can now be found in the wild, new game acquisitions, and games we are eager to try. Game announcements: This is a list of games that are fulfilling maybe and have not yet reached the store shelves, unless it is a CMON game then it is on the game shelf and backers are waiting disgruntled. New game announcements also include games that are in late production and will be released at a future time. Crowdfunding is games that have piqued our interest and maybe have even been backed by us. So with that, let's turn to the table and see what games we are talking about today.

 

New Game Releases

New Game Announcements

Crowdfunding Games



Direct download: MN_585_July_2025_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

SaltPOD 0006, Summer 2025
Release date: June 30, 2025

Welcome gamers! If you are a board gamer, a social gamer, or someone who loves RPGs, SaltCON is a place for you.

Welcome back to SaltPOD, your dedicated deep dive into the vibrant world of SaltCon and the incredible community that makes it tick! If you're new here, SaltPOD is your backstage pass, your insider scoop, your direct line to all things SaltCON. SaltCON – the biggest and best tabletop gaming convention in the Mountain West! We're here to explore the amazing games, the fantastic people, and the unforgettable experiences that make SaltCon a must-attend event year after year. Get ready to level up your excitement!"

This episode we are reviewing all the great things that happened at SaltCON Summer which happened June 6th through the 8th at the Davis Conference Center, in Layton City.

The first Summer event is the smallest of the events that happen at the Davis Conference Center, but that does not mean there is a shortage of events and fun to be had. This was still three days that were packed full of RPG events, Board Game events, Social gaming events, and even a tournament or two to be played in. So sit back and let’s dig in. We have a lot to talk about.

Vendor Hall
Some very cool stuff for gaming drinks, games, and gaming accessories.

Hot Games:

Play to Win Games 

  • I played a handful of games from this game on the shelves, there were around 30 games that were there to try out and to get a chance to win them. Even if you just wanted to review the rules and enter to win the game that is an option, but this is a great way to try a game and see if you want to have a chance to win them.

  • https://saltcon.com/summer-play-to-win/

Gaming library

  • A huge game library with over 2500 games to check out and play.

  • Classic games, and new games alike.

There were 278 different events the attendees could sign up for. 
178 Total RPG events.

  • 85 RPG events

  • 26 Pathfinder events

  • 67 Dungeons and Dragons Adventurers League events

    • Pathfinder Society: Salt of the Ocean Multi Table Event

      • In the Eye of Abendego, the storm has receded just enough to reveal two particularly interesting new sites: one is a wrecked Pathfinder ship and the other an ancient island associated with prophesiers and demons. With some help from an old pirate friend, the Pathfinders are kitted up in order to investigate these two new occurrences, however it seems like she wasn't the only pirate with her eyes on these strange new prizes. The Society will have to face the dangers of sea and storm as they sail to their goal, hoping to beat their rivals to the hidden secrets!

  • This event was played with multiple tables running simultaneously, at multiple level tiers. The Pathfinder Society came out victorious!

  • D&D Adventurers League: Hold Back the Dead Multi Table Event

  • The Adventurer's League had some close calls, and not everyone made it out alive this time... but the dead have been vanquished. For now. 

  • Hold Back the Dead is a multi-table Dungeons & Dragons adventure where heroes must defend a stronghold under siege by an overwhelming undead force. As the tide of the dead rises, players work together across tables to uncover the source of the invasion and prevent an ancient evil from breaking through. Designed for epic coordination and tense decisions, it blends horror, heroism, and high-stakes combat in a dynamic battlefield setting.

  • Playtests for new RPG systems were available at SaltCON Summer with the highlights being 

    • Untold RPG and 

    • Nephilim the Forsaken, brought in by local game designers. 

  • SaltCON End of Summer will have a stronger focus on prototype RPG systems and welcomes game developers to join the SaltCON GameMasters Guild on Discord or Facebook to learn more about bringing their systems to the convention.

  • Total sessions run: 175

  • Other popular games included Cyberpunk Red, Shadowdark, Call of Cthulhu, Shadowrun, Vampire the Masquerade, The Electric State, BESM, Nimble 2, Dragonbane, DC20, and many more!

Game Swap

Flea Market
Saturday for 2-hours

Tournaments

Events
Broadway Murder Mystery - Groomed for Murder!

    • This was a big hit and will return for End of Summer with rumor of a second game being added. Grilled to Death

  • Nebula: A 4X inspired Big Group Game

  • Tichu around with Danny

    • We had about half of the attendees learning Tichu for the first time, it was really cool to see them pick up strategies after each hand! There were many surprising outcomes, including many successful and unsuccessful Tichu calls, hands that looked certain, than turned upside down, and many laughs. Everyone that I spoke to that was learning for the first time was excited to get the game, and play some more!

  • Blood on the Clock Tower

    • Nine different event and one how to play event

  • Mini Painting Seminar

    • Saturday 1:30


64 total board game events

Board Game Events

Meeple Nation events

What a way to start the Summer of Gaming.

So what is next?

  • SaltCON End of Summer

    • August 29-31

    • 1000 badges

    • Game library

    • RPG area

      • Tons of RPG events

    • Hot Games

    • No-Ship Math Trade

    • Game swap

      • Open all three days

    • Flea Market

      • Saturday 9-10AM

    • Figure Painting 

      • Saturday 12:30 -3:30PM

    • Vendors

    • Reserved tables

      • Four left

Next Year SaltCON is adding a Sixth Event. One that will have many people very excited. 

SaltCON Cruise August 7-14

Leaving Seattle and cruising up to Alaska and then back to Seattle.

Limited to 100 spots

Gaming Library

Room Block

If you have any questions feel free to email us at MeepleNation@gmail.com. We are always excited to hear about new games and exciting events and great times. And with that we have completed another deep dive into the salty goodness of SaltCon! We hope you're as excited as we are for all the fun and games. Remember, SaltPOD is your ongoing connection to these amazing events. But the board gaming adventure doesn't stop here! If you love in-depth discussions, diverse perspectives, and talking about all things board games, be sure to check out our regular podcast, Meeple Nation! There we have episodes serving up fantastic content week after week. Until next time, keep rolling those dice, and we'll see you at SaltCon!"Thanks for listening. 

 

Direct download: SaltPod_6_SaltCON_Summer_Review.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 10:47am MST

isode 584: A Look at Market Games 

Episode release date is June 25, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we in contrast with the open drafting mechanic we discussed the last few episodes, this week we are focusing on games that have and use a market, and how a market game is different from an open drafting game.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

The Market mechanic, in essence, simulates a dynamic economy within a board game. Unlike a simple "take one from a pile" or a closed draft where items circulate, a market presents players with a publicly available pool of goods, actions, or resources. This pool often changes, either by new items being revealed, existing items being bought, or even prices fluctuating.

What makes the Market mechanic so engaging is the tension it creates. Players are constantly evaluating not just what they need, but also what their opponents might be eyeing. With what is currently available in the market. Is it worth paying a premium for that crucial item now, or should you wait and hope a cheaper option appears? Do you play the jerk role and counter draft to deny an opponent a vital resource by taking it yourself, even if it's not your absolute top priority?

Markets can take many forms:

  • Static Markets: Where a set of items is always available, and players choose from it.

  • Dynamic Markets: Prices might change based on supply and demand.

  • Rotating Markets: Items might enter and exit the market over time, creating a flow of new opportunities.

  • "I-Cut-You-Choose" Style Markets: While sometimes a separate mechanic, some games blend this, where one player sets up a market or splits resources, and another player chooses first.

We discussed how open drafting games are very closely related to market games, but ultimately, the Market mechanic adds layers of tactical decision-making, player interaction, and often, an exciting push-your-luck element. 

It's about optimizing your purchases, anticipating others' moves, and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of available options. So next time you're sitting down to play and see a row of tempting cards or a pile of valuable resources, you're likely engaging with the dynamic world of the Market mechanic!


Top Rated Market Games

Games we did not discuss

 

Direct download: MN_584_A_Look_at_Market_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 7:55pm MST

Episode 583: Top Rated Open Drafting Games

Episode release date is June 18, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are concluding our discussion of open drafting games. This episode we will be picking out games off the top Open Drafting Games, some games we missed and some we don’t own.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

In board game mechanics, open drafting is a specific type of drafting where players take turns selecting items (like cards, tiles, dice, or tokens) from a shared, visible pool of options.

To touch on the key points again. Open Drafting and Market games will have a lot of overlap.
Key Characteristics of Open Drafting:

  1. Shared Pool: There's a central display or common area where all the items available for selection are laid out.

  2. Visibility: All players can see all the available options in the pool at all times. This is the defining feature of "open" drafting.

  3. Turn-Based Selection: Players take turns choosing and taking one or more items from this shared pool. Once an item is taken, it's removed from the pool (or sometimes replaced immediately, depending on the game).

  4. Strategic Interaction: Because everyone can see what's available and what others are taking, open drafting encourages a high level of player interaction and strategic depth. Players aren't just thinking about what they need for their own strategy, but also:

    • "Hate Drafting": Taking an item that might not be optimal for you, but is crucial for an opponent's strategy, thereby "denying" them that piece. This can be a friendly jab or a crucial tactical move.

    • Anticipation: Trying to predict what other players will take on their turns based on their visible boards or strategies.

    • Adapting: Adjusting your own plans if a key item you wanted is taken by an opponent.

How it Differs from Other Drafting Types:

The main contrast to open drafting is closed drafting (often called "pick-and-pass" or "hand drafting"):

  • Closed Drafting: Players typically receive a hand of cards (or a set of items) and select one (or more) to keep, then pass the rest of their hand to the next player. 

  • The key difference is that the pool of options available to the next player is unknown until they receive the new hand. Players don't see the full communal pool; they only see their current hand.


Top Rated Open Drafting Games

Games not Mentioned

Direct download: MN_583_Top_Rated_Open_Drafting_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 12:00am MST

Episode 582: Our Top-Five Open Drafting Games 

Episode release date is June 11, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are continuing our discussion of open drafting games. This episode we are hitting on our top-five Open Drafting Games

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

In board game mechanics, open drafting is a specific type of drafting where players take turns selecting items (like cards, tiles, dice, or tokens) from a shared, visible pool of options.

To touch on the key points again. Open Drafting and Market games will have a lot of overlap.
Key Characteristics of Open Drafting:

  1. Shared Pool: There's a central display or common area where all the items available for selection are laid out.

  2. Visibility: All players can see all the available options in the pool at all times. This is the defining feature of "open" drafting.

  3. Turn-Based Selection: Players take turns choosing and taking one or more items from this shared pool. Once an item is taken, it's removed from the pool (or sometimes replaced immediately, depending on the game).

  4. Strategic Interaction: Because everyone can see what's available and what others are taking, open drafting encourages a high level of player interaction and strategic depth. Players aren't just thinking about what they need for their own strategy, but also:

    • "Hate Drafting": Taking an item that might not be optimal for you, but is crucial for an opponent's strategy, thereby "denying" them that piece. This can be a friendly jab or a crucial tactical move.

    • Anticipation: Trying to predict what other players will take on their turns based on their visible boards or strategies.

    • Adapting: Adjusting your own plans if a key item you wanted is taken by an opponent.

How it Differs from Other Drafting Types:

The main contrast to open drafting is closed drafting (often called "pick-and-pass" or "hand drafting"):

  • Closed Drafting: Players typically receive a hand of cards (or a set of items) and select one (or more) to keep, then pass the rest of their hand to the next player. 

  • The key difference is that the pool of options available to the next player is unknown until they receive the new hand. Players don't see the full communal pool; they only see their current hand.

Top Five

 

Number Five:

 

Number Four:

 

Number Three:

 

Number Two:

 

Number One:



Direct download: MN_582_Top_Five_Open_Drafting_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 8:11am MST

Episode 581: Open Drafting Games 

Episode release date is June 4, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we kick off our discussion of open drafting games. So, we are going to line up a bunch of games and choose some to discuss.

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

  • Nathan

    • Doomlings

  • Douglas

  • Andy

  • David

In board game mechanics, open drafting is a specific type of drafting where players take turns selecting items (like cards, tiles, dice, or tokens) from a shared, visible pool of options.

Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics and how it differs from other drafting types:

Key Characteristics of Open Drafting:

  1. Shared Pool: There's a central display or common area where all the items available for selection are laid out.

  2. Visibility: All players can see all the available options in the pool at all times. This is the defining feature of "open" drafting.

  3. Turn-Based Selection: Players take turns choosing and taking one or more items from this shared pool. Once an item is taken, it's removed from the pool (or sometimes replaced immediately, depending on the game).

  4. Strategic Interaction: Because everyone can see what's available and what others are taking, open drafting encourages a high level of player interaction and strategic depth. Players aren't just thinking about what they need for their own strategy, but also:

    • "Hate Drafting": Taking an item that might not be optimal for you, but is crucial for an opponent's strategy, thereby "denying" them that piece. This can be a friendly jab or a crucial tactical move.

    • Anticipation: Trying to predict what other players will take on their turns based on their visible boards or strategies.

    • Adapting: Adjusting your own plans if a key item you wanted is taken by an opponent.

How it Differs from Other Drafting Types:

The main contrast to open drafting is closed drafting (often called "pick-and-pass" or "hand drafting"):

  • Closed Drafting: Players typically receive a hand of cards (or a set of items) and select one (or more) to keep, then pass the rest of their hand to the next player. The key difference is that the pool of options available to the next player is unknown until they receive the new hand. Players don't see the full communal pool; they only see their current hand.

    • Examples of Closed Drafting: 7 Wonders (the original), Sushi Go!, Blood Rage.

Why Designers Use Open Drafting:

  • Increased Player Interaction: Players are constantly engaged with the overall game state, not just their own limited hand.

  • Tactical Depth: Decisions often involve weighing immediate personal gain against denying opponents.

  • Transparency: All information about available items is public, allowing for more calculated and less luck-driven decisions regarding the draft itself.

  • Emergent Strategy: The way the pool changes based on player choices creates dynamic and evolving strategic opportunities.

 

Open Drafting Games

 

Direct download: MN_581_Open_Drafting_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 580: Meeple Nation May 2025 News - New Games, Announcements, & Crowdfunding!

Release Date: May 28, 2025

Welcome to Episode 580 of Meeple Nation, The World's Okayest Podcast!

This week, Nathan, Douglas, and Dave pull up a chair to the game table to dive into all the exciting news from the board gaming world for May 2025. We're covering a ton of ground, including:

  • New Game Releases: Discover what's just hit the shelves and is ready for your game night!
  • New Game Announcements: Get the scoop on upcoming titles that have the community buzzing.
  • Crowdfunding Games: We'll highlight some intriguing projects currently seeking support on Kickstarter and Gamefound.

In this episode, we chat about:

A huge shout-out to our amazing sponsors, Game Toppers and SaltCON!

Whether you're a veteran gamer or just getting into the hobby, there's something for everyone in this action-packed episode. Join us for your essential dose of board game news and discussion!


Connect with Meeple Nation:

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the show, please subscribe, rate, and review us on your favorite podcast platform!

Direct download: MN_580_May_2025_News_Audio.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

SaltPOD 0005, SaltCON Summer 2025
Release date: May 27, 2025

Welcome gamers! If you are a board gamer, a social gamer, or someone who loves RPGs, SaltCON is a place for you.

Welcome back to SaltPOD, your dedicated deep dive into the vibrant world of SaltCon and the incredible community that makes it tick! If you're new here, SaltPOD is your backstage pass, your insider scoop, your direct line to all things SaltCON. SaltCON – the biggest and best tabletop gaming convention in the Mountain West! We're here to explore the amazing games, the fantastic people, and the unforgettable experiences that make SaltCon a must-attend event year after year. Get ready to level up your excitement!"

This episode we are discussing SaltCON Summer which is happening June 6th through the 8th at the Davis Conference Center, in Layton City.

This event is smaller than the Spring event but still has three action packed days of events, tournaments, open gaming and amazing people.

Vendor Hall
The Gauntlet of vendors and wears and gaming goodies.

 

Hot Games:



Play to Win Games 

  • Friday and Saturday

 

Gaming library

  • A huge game library with over 2500 games to check out and play.

  • Classic games, and new games alike.

 

There were 278 different events the attendees could sign up for.

178 Total RPG events.

  • 85 RPG events

  • 26 Pathfinder events

  • 67 Dungeons and Dragons Adventurers League events

 

Game Swap

Flea Market

  • Saturday for 2-hours

Tournaments

 

Events


64 total board game events

 

Board Game Events

 

Meeple Nation events

 

What a way to start the Summer of Gaming.

So what is next?

  • SaltCON End of Summer

    • August 29-31

    • 1000 badges

    • Game library

    • RPG area

    • Hot Games

    • Game swap

    • Flea Market

    • Miniature painting

    • Vendors

    • Reserved tables

 

If you have any questions feel free to email us at MeepleNation@gmail.com. We are always excited to hear about new games and exciting times. And with that we have completed another deep dive into the salty goodness of SaltCon! We hope you're as excited as we are for all the fun and games. Remember, SaltPOD is your ongoing connection to these amazing events. But the board gaming adventure doesn't stop here! If you love in-depth discussions, diverse perspectives, and talking about all things board games, be sure to check out our other podcast, Meeple Nation! There we have episodes serving up fantastic content week after week. Until next time, keep rolling those dice, and we'll see you at SaltCon!"Thanks for listening. 




Direct download: SCPC_SaltPOD_Episode_0005_SaltCON_Summer_2025.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 6:46pm MST

Episode 579: Narrative Choice or Paragraph Games 

Episode release date is May 21, 2025

Show Notes

 

Meeple Nation discusses several games that include the narrative or paragraph game mechanic. Come join us at the game table and find some new and amazing games.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

Narrative Choice and Paragraph Games.

The Narrative Choice or Paragraph Games mechanic puts a strong emphasis on storytelling and player agency through making decisions that directly influence the narrative's progression. Instead of relying solely on traditional game mechanics like dice rolling or resource management to drive the plot, these games present players with textual descriptions, scenarios, and choices that lead to different outcomes and further narrative branches.

Think of it like a "Choose Your Own Adventure" book integrated into a board game experience. Players often read paragraphs of text that describe a situation, and then they are presented with a set of choices. Each choice directs them to a different paragraph or section, unfolding the story in a unique way based on their decisions.

Here's how the mechanic typically works:

  1. Narrative Presentation: The game presents story elements through text, often in the form of cards, books, or even app-based interfaces. These descriptions set the scene, introduce characters, and present challenges.

  2. Choice Points: At key moments in the narrative, players are given distinct options on how to proceed. These choices can range from dialogue options and actions to strategic decisions that have narrative consequences.

  3. Branching Narrative: Each choice leads to a different part of the story. This might involve reading a specific paragraph number, drawing a particular card, or triggering a new event within the app. The narrative unfolds non-linearly based on the collective decisions of the players.

  4. Consequences: The choices players make often have consequences that affect the ongoing narrative. This could involve changes in character relationships, the availability of future options, the acquisition of items, or even the overall outcome of the game.

  5. Emergent Storytelling: While the core narrative is pre-written, the combination of player choices leads to a unique emergent story for each playthrough. Different groups of players, or even the same group playing again, will likely experience the narrative in a different sequence and with different outcomes.

Narrative Choice or Paragraph Games




Nathan

  •  

Andy

Douglas

  • Scythe

  • Too Many Bones

  • Tainted Grail

  • Sleeping Gods

  • Sleeping Gods: Distant Skies

  • TIME Stories

  • ISS Vanguard

  • The Witcher: Old World

  • Star Wars: Outer Rim

  • Clank! Legacy

  • Earthborn Rangers

  • My Fathers Work

  • Waste Knights

  • Tamashii



Direct download: MN_579_Narrative_Choice_or_Paragraph_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 11:01pm MST

Episode 578: Network or Route Building Games We Don’t Own

Episode release date is May 14, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are at the final connection of our Network or Route building games discussion. All routes are closing in this episode. For those who may have missed it, network or route building games where players are establishing connections between points on the board or map. 

 

For this last episode in this series, we will be looking at the larger list of top rated network or route building games according to BGG. I selected the Network or Route building Mechanic and limited that search to games that are rated with 7 stars or higher, and each of these games must have a minimum of 2000 user ratings.

 

So let’s get on board and punch the ticket of this discussion of network building games at the game table.



Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

Top network or route building games

Direct download: MN_578_Network_and_Route_Building_Games_We_Dont_Own.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 11:29pm MST

Episode 577: Our Top Five Network or Route Building Games 

Episode release date is May 7, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are at the middle point of our Network or Route building games discussion. Once again network or route building games mean players are establishing connections between points on the board or map. 

 

For this episode we will be focusing on our top five games that make use of the network or route building.

 

So let’s return to the game table and continue the discussion of network building games at the game table.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

Our top five Network or Route building games.

Douglas

Andy

Nathan

 

Direct download: MN_577_Our_Top_Five_Network__Route_Building_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 576: Network or Route Building Games
Episode release date is April 30, 2025

Show Notes

This week we kick off our discussion of games that involve network building. The "network building mechanic" refers to the gameplay element where players construct and expand interconnected systems, often representing transportation, communication, and resource distribution. It's about establishing links and leveraging those connections for strategic advantage.

Some of the main concepts of network and route building include:

Connectivity:
The fundamental element of establishing links between nodes, such as locations, cities, or points of interest. These links from a network.

Expansion:
Players progressively expand their network, reaching new destinations and making further connections. Expansion is often tied to resource management, technology advancement, or through fulfilling objectives.

Strategic advantage:
A well-developed network provides: efficient resource movement, faster travel or delivery, control over locations, increased scoring opportunities, and influence over other game elements.

Player interdependence:
Networks can create interdependence between players, either through competition for resources and routes or through cooperative efforts.

Come join us at the game table where we are going to talk about networking games, and I bet it includes more than train games.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Sponsorship

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

Network or Route Building Games

 

Games not Mentioned

Douglas

Andy

Nathan

Direct download: MN_576_Network_or_Route_Building_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

It is time for the SaltCON SideCast.

Episode 4. This week the hosts of Meeple Nation talk about the four ways to buy, sell, and trade games during SaltCON Spring, Summer, and End of Summer Events. There are four organized options, the no ship math trade, the virtural flea market, the game swap, and the in person flea market.

Come join us at the game table as we discuss and come join us at the next SaltCON event, SaltCON summer this June from the 6th through the 8th.

Direct download: SaltPOD_Podcast_Episode_.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 9:28am MST

Episode 575: Meeple Nation April 2025 News 

 

Show Notes 

 

Episode release date is April 23, 2025

 

This week we are talking about new games, new game announcements, new game releases and we also just had our HUGG-A-Meeple gathering. We may even manage to get to some crowdfunding games too. 

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World’s Okayest Podcast.



Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights

 

New Game Releases

 

 

New Game Announcements

 

Crowdfunding Games















Direct download: MN_575_April_2025_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 574: Games that use movement points

Episode release date is April 2, 2025

 

Show Notes

 

This week we are doing a one episode discussion of games that use movement points as a movement. What are movement points you ask? Well, movement points regulate how far a player can move their pieces during the game.

For example, players are given a specific number of "points" that can be spent to move game pieces. Different spaces or terrains on the game board may cost varying amounts of movement points to enter. Players may receive a set number of movement points each turn that can be spread across multiple pieces. Those points could fluctuate depending on card draws or dice rolls.

 

Sometimes movement points can be part of a larger pool of actions, and movement can be part of or one of those actions.

 

In short, movement points provide a structured way to manage in game movement while adding a tactical element to gameplay.

 

So let’s make it a point to move to the game table and discuss some games.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast



Meeple Nation Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

Games that use movement points

Nathan

Andy

Douglas

 

Telanislyon

  • Carnegie has some interesting management choices in activating departments to move workers around for various economic functions.

    • Carnegie is definitely a good game, I think it's tough to outcompete some of the newer ones though. It was a popular blip for a sec, then kinda floated down to the lower mid of bgg pack. It's still a good game, solid 7.

  • Maracaibo would also have a choice of action to move your ship a certain distance also for triggering spaces. Not sure if that's totally true movement points, but fairly close

  • The only other ones I can even think of would be troop movement for war games, like War of the Ring/for Arrakis or Axis & Allies.

    • War of the Ring is awesome! Great 2p strategy game.

    • War for Arrakis, same designer, basically the truncated version of War of the Ring in Dune!



Top games that use movement points

 

Direct download: MN_574_Movement_Point_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 10:31pm MST

Episode 573: Games with Multi-Use cards we don’t own- Show Notes 

Episode release date is April 2, 2025

 

This week wraps up our look at games featuring Multi-Use cards, focusing on highly-rated titles we haven't yet added to our collection. As a reminder, Multi-Use cards offer strategic depth by allowing a single card to serve multiple purposes. These purposes can include acting as text-based abilities, resources, life counters, or even determining player order, as well as many other options. 

Come join us at the game table as we discover games with multi-use cards that we do not own.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

Cory

  • I would say that my favorite multi-use card game is the old Decipher Star Wars CCG. How your deck of cards was used as resources and life was a mechanic I really liked. I wish there were other games that used a similar mechanic. Too bad this game is long and gone.

Telanislyon

  • Blast from the past! Good game. I actually heard they were still running tournaments for this game. I also think the entire set is available for print online somewhere for free.

  • I haven't played Disney Lorcana, but I thought the layout looked very similar to SWCCG.

Sopdebop

  • On the subject of multi use cards, I’d like to nominate SETI. Cards have 4 definite uses and can also be exchanged for other resources (free action, scan, tuck and card effect). I think that’s impressive. 

  • I also really like the cards in windmill valley. The assistant cards can be used for ongoing game bonus OR end game bonus. There is always one initial assistant left over which doubles as the queen’s contract on the reverse too, which is neat imo.

 

Castle Combo Clarification

  • Cory pointed out something I had missed when I taught Castle Combo.

  • You can spend a key to wipe the current row of cards.




Top Multi-Use Card Games

 

Direct download: MN_573_Games_with_Multi-Use_Cards_We_Dont_Own.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 572: Part two? or something like that.

Episode release date is April 2, 2025

 

This week we are creating a filler bonus episode because Nathan pushed out two episodes last week and we still wanted something to release today, because we want to make sure you all have something to enjoy today.

Come join us at the game table as we decide together what we are going to talk about today.

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Media Highlights (Highlight-Thirty) Movies, TV, Books, Work or Other Hobbies

Nathan

  • Video Setup (Meeple Nation Patrons Thank You!)

  • Daredevil (Disney+)

  • Umbrella Academy (Netflix)

  • The “Bobiverse” series by Dennis E. Taylor (We Are Bob)

  • Jumanji 

  • Atomic Habits by James Clear

  • Before Happiness by Shawn Achor

  • The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor

  • The Seven Principles for Making a Marriage Work by John Gottman

  • Big Bang Theory

  • Stuart Fails to Save the Universe (Big Bang Theory Spinoff Show)

  • Neverwinter Nights

  • Gaming Goals

  • Andromeda’s Edge

  • Arcs

  • Ticket to Ride Legacy: Legends of the West 

  • Flash Point: Legacy of Flame

  • G.I. JOE: Operation Cobra:

  • Wizard of Paws

  • Spring coming Yard work is coming!!

Andy

Douglas

 

Direct download: MN_572_Part_2_Maybe.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 8:06am MST

Episode 571: Games with Multi-Use cards - Show Notes Andy

Episode release date is March 19, 2025

 

This week we kick off our discussion of games with Multi-Use cards. A fascinating mechanic that adds layers of strategic depth and decision-making, and one we love very much. 

Instead of a card having only one specific function, multi-use cards can be used in different ways, offering players choices about how to best utilize them. This could involve:

  • Playing the card for its stated effect: 

  • Using the card as a resource: 

  • Using the card for set collection or scoring: 

  • Using the card to build something: 

Why Use Multi-Use Cards?

  • Increased Strategic Depth: 

  • Reduced Luck Factor: 

  • Greater Replayability:

  • Thematic Immersion:

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast



Meeple Nation Highlights

 

Games that use Multi-Use Cards

 

  1. Gloomhaven

  2. Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion

  3. Frosthaven

  4. Jump Drive

  5. The City

  6. San Juan

  7. Race for the Galaxy

  8. Bohnanza

  9. Marvel Champions

  10. Castle Combo

  11. Expeditions

  12. Mage Knight: The Board Game

  13. Mage Knight: Ultimate Edition

  14. Star Trek: Frontiers

  15. Evenfall

  16. Isle of Trains: All Aboard

Direct download: MN_571_Games_with_Multi-Use_Cards.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 3:00am MST

Episode 572: Our Top-Five Games with Multi-Use cards - Show Notes 

Episode release date is March 26, 2025

 

This week we dig into our discussion of games with Multi-Use cards by hitting our top five. Just to recap, the Multi-Use cards game mechanic adds layers of strategic depth and decision-making. Something that we all love in a game. 

Come join us at the game table as we reveal our top five games with multi-use cards.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World's Most Okayest Podcast

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights (Highlight-Thirty)

 

Our top five pick

Andy

  1. Pirates of Maracaibo 

  2. Revive

  3. Maracaibo

  4. Apiary

  5. Comet

Douglas

  1. Etherfields 

  2. Arkham Horror The Card Game

  3. Endless Winter Paleoamericans 

  4. Revive 

  5. Lost Ruins of Arnak 

Nathan

  1. Hadrian’s Wall

  2. The White Castle

  3. Pirates of Maracaibo

  4. 7 Wonders Duel

  5. The Quest for El Dorado

  6. Dead Cells: The Rouge-Lite Board Game

 

Direct download: MN_572_Top_Five_Multi-Use_Card_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 570: Meeple Nation March 2025 News - Show Notes 

Episode release date is March 19, 2025

 

This week is all about SaltCON Spring!
We managed to sprinkle a little news in there to boot. 

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation The World’s Okayest Podcast.



Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights SaltCON Spring

 

New Game Releases

 

 

New Game Announcements

 

Crowdfunding Games

 

Direct download: MN_570_March_2025_News__SaltCON_Spring_Review.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 569: Games with Card Play Conflict Resolution 
Episode release date is March 12, 2025

 

Show Notes 

 

This week we are doing a single episode discussing games with card play conflict resolution. Card play conflict resolution is a versatile mechanic that can add depth, strategy, and thematic flavor to board games. It allows for player agency and decision-making in situations that might otherwise be left to chance.

Card play conflict resolution in board games means that instead of using dice rolls or other randomizers to determine the outcome of a conflict, players use cards from their hand or a shared deck to influence or directly decide the result.

  1. Conflict arises: 

  2. Card selection: 

  3. Reveal and resolve

Why use card play for conflict resolution?

  • Reduced randomness

  • Strategic depth

  • Thematic connection

  • Variety and replayability

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

 

Intro of Meeple Nation

 

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights 

 

Top games with modular boards

 

Games on the list that we did not get too.

Direct download: MN_569_Games_with_Card_Play_Conflict_Resolution.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 6:10am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 568 - Games with Modular Boards that we don’t own

Show Notes 

Episode release date is March 5, 2025

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 568: Games with Modular Boards.

This week we end our discussion of games with modular boards by hitting on some that we do not own and dip into why that may be. Will we be adding any of these to our game shelves? Let’s find out.  

Come join us at the game table.

Sponsorship

Intro of Meeple Nation

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights 

Top games with modular boards

Gloomhaven
Twilight Imperium: Fourth Edition
Spirit Island
Gaia Project
Eclipse: Second Dawn of the Galaxy
7 Wonders Duel
Mage Knight: Ultimate Edition
Nemesis
Frosthaven
Arkham Horror: The Card Game
Mage Knight: The Board Game
Food Chain Magnate
Oathsworn: Into the Deepwood
The Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle-earth
Mansions of Madness: Second Edition
Age of Innovation
Clans of Caledonia
Star Wars: Imperial Assault
Mechs vs Minions
Clank!: Catacombs
Five Tribes: The Djinns of Naqala
Eclipse: New Dawn of the Galaxy
Inis
Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon
Dwellings of Eldervale
Keyflower
The Quest for El Dorado
Voidfall
The Lord of the Rings: Journeys in Middle-Earth
Twilight Imperium: Third Edition
The 7th Continent
Everdell: The Complete Collection
Yokohama
Clank! In! Space!: A Deck-Building Game
Forbidden Stars
Parks
Targi
Undaunted: Normandy
Istanbul
Viscounts of the West Kingdom
Xia: Legends of a Drift System
Star Wars: Outer Rim
Memoir ‘44
Descent Journeys in the Dark (Second Edition)
Ora et Labora
Commands and Colors: Ancients
Clash of Cultures: Monumental Edition
Under Falling Skies
Flamme Rouge
Vindication
Hallertau
Endless Winter: Paleoamericans
Oath
Marvel United
Cryptid

 

Direct download: MN_568_Games_with_Modular_Boards_we_Dont_Own.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 567 Top Five Games with Modular Boards

This week is all about modular boards. This board goes here, this board goes there...no, wait...what?

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_567_Top_Five_Games_with_Modular_Boards.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Episode 566: Games with Modular Boards - Show Notes 

Episode release date is February 19, 2025

This week we kick off our discussion of games with Modular Boards. A fascinating mechanic that adds layers of strategic depth and decision-making, and one we love very much. 

A modular board in a board game is a game board that is made up of multiple pieces or tiles that can be arranged in different ways. These pieces can be rearranged before the game starts, or even during the game itself, to create a different board layout each time you play.  

Modular boards usually consist of smaller sections or tiles that can be connected in various ways. These might be hexes, squares or tiles of cards of any shape. 

Come join us at the game table.

 

Sponsorship

Intro of Meeple Nation

Meeple Nation Gaming Highlights SaltCON Spring

Games that use Multi-Use Cards

Nathan’s Games

Doug’s Games

Andy’s Games

Extras 

 

Direct download: MN_566_Games_with_Modular_Boards.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 565 February 2025 News

This week is all about BryceCON! We managed to sprinkle a little news in there to boot. 

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_565_February_2025_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 564: Income Games We Don't Own.

We close out our section on income games talking about some great income games that are missing from our collections, and Andy gets to talks about his games too.

Join us at the game table

Direct download: MN_564_Income_Games_We_Dont_Own.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

SaltCON Podcast Episode 001: What is SaltCON?

SaltCON is Utah's largest Board Game Convention which has events 5 times each year. But, it is more than just board games. There are RPG events, Social Gaming, Puzzle Hunts, Game Shows and so much more.

Come Join us at the table as we discuss all things SaltCON.

Direct download: SCPC_001_What_Is_SaltCON.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 10:37am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 563 Our Top Five Income Games

We could all use a little more income...Am I right? These are the games that make the income magic happen!

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_563_Our_Top_Five_Income_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 562: Income Games.

We are kicking off our discussion of income games, we waffle on our ideas and definition of what make a game an income game, but we have some fun discussing them.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_562_Income_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 561 What We're Looking for in 2025

It's a new year full of new games! This week we talk about what were looking forward to most in 2025.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_561_What_Were_Looking_for_in_2025.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 560 - January 2025 News

A new year and it is time for the first news episode of the year. Looking forward to new games, games that are coming soon, and awesome games on crowdfunding. 

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_560_January_2025_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 559 Top 10 Games of 2024

What kind of year was 2024 for games? We thought it was pretty great! Let us know what your favorites were at meeplenation@gmail.com.

Come join us at the game table. 

Direct download: MN_559_Top_10_Games_of_2024.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 5:44pm MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 558 - Top Thirty Games of All-Time... At Least for Now.

Here it is, our top 10 games of all-time. We have some more crossover, but mostly we have a list of some amazing games.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_558_Top_Thirty_Games_2024_Edition_1-10.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 557 Top 30 Games of All Time (20 - 11)

This week we continue our countdown of the the best games EVER!! According to us...for now!

Come join us at the game table. 

Direct download: MN_557_Top_30_Games_of_All_Time_20_-_11.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 556 Our Top 30 Games of All-Time.

We went through the games we have played and came up with our top thirty games. This is part 1 of 3 episodes as we go over these great games.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_556_Top_30_Games_Part_I.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 555 November 2024

This week we talk mostly about BGGCON, amazing games, and weird flights. There's even a little news mixed in there too.

Come join us at the game table. 

Direct download: MN_555_November_2024_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 554 - Five games that need expansions.

This week we discuss some amazing games that we love and we just want to love them some more with some new content.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_554_Games_That_Need_Expansions.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 554 - Five games that need expansions.

This week we discuss some amazing games that we love and we just want to love them some more with some new content.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_554_Five_Games_That_Need_Expansions.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 553 Top Expansions That Made the Base Game Better (and improved it!)

This week we discuss the expansions that made the base game better! Are they "essential?" Maybe..!?

Come join us at the game table. 

Direct download: MN_553_Top_Expansions_That_Made_the_Base_Game_Better.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 552 our 2024 holiday gift guide.

It is that time of year, when we think about giving gifts to those we love. The gamers in our lives, and even those who we want to be gamers. We have something for everyone.

Come join us at the game table. 

Direct download: MN_554_The_2024_Holiday_Gift_Guide.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 551 - Spooky Games for Halloween

Beware! This weeks episode is rated "S" for Scary! Oh, I've just been informed the "S" stands for Silly. Beware all the same! 

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_551_Spooky_Games_for_Halloween.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 550: 2024 October News.

New game releasees, new game announcements for Nathan, and some crowd funding for Andy. I bet there is something here for you too.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_550_2024_October_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 549 - Why Do You Have So Many Games?

This week we try to answer questions about why we buy games. Do we come to any solid conclusions along the way? Maybe, maybe not. But the ride is fun anyway!

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_549_Why_Do_You_Have_So_Many_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Bonus Episode 15 - Hex Game Showdown.

It is time to join us ringside for another showdown episode. 14 games enter the arena, and only one can be the Meeple Nation number one game. What will it be?

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_BE15_Hex_Game_Showdown.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 9:47am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 548: Top Hex Grid Games on BGG.

We are trying something a bit different. We are looking at the top 50 hex grid games and talk about some that we do not own or have not played yet.

Come join us at the Game Table.

Direct download: MN_548_Discoveng_Other_Hex_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 547 Top Five Hex Grid Games

This week we discuss some highlights and our top five hex grid games. 

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_547_Top_Five_Hex_Grid_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 546 - Hex Grid Games

This week we are kicking off our discussion of games that employee the gamers shape, the hex. The hex is such a versatile shape in so many different board games.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_546_Hex_Gris_Game_Episode.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 545 - September 2024 News

It's time to talk about the news! SaltCON, new games announcements, and crowdfunding.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_545_September_2024_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 7:08am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 544: Our Top Five Games Still On Our Shelf of Shame.

Time to review what games we are still hoping to get the the game table. These are great games that we need to get learned and played.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_544_Top_Five_Games_Still_On_Our_Shelf_of_Shame.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 543 - Top Hand Management Games We Don't Own

This week we talk about a few games we've missed...or have we? You decide!

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_543_Top_Hand_Management_Games_We_Dont_Own.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 542 - Top Five Hand Management Games.

This week we focus on our top five games. There is some great discussion about the hand management mechanic and four awesome list.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_542_Top_Five_Hand_Management_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 541: Hand Management Games

This week while Doug is away we are kicking off our discussion of hand management games. We are welcoming Sierra on a regular basis and having a good time.

Come Join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_541_Hand_Management_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

MN Podcast episode 539

This week we review the best convention we've ever attended! Seriously...it was awesome!

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_539_MonCon_Review.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: August 2024 News.

GenCON has come and gone, that means there are a lot of new games to talk about. It is time to start making that shopping list for those of us who did not make it. 

Come Join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_540_August_2024_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Bonus Episode 13 - End Game Bonus Showdown.

Get your ringside seat to find out of our collective top five lists, which game makes it to the Meeple Nation number one game with end game bonuses.

Come join us at the game table. 

Direct download: MN_BE_13_End_Game_Bonus_Showdown.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:24pm MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 538 - Games with end game bonuses that we do not own.

We have a list of 14 games that are in the top 40 games that we do not own. We look at these games and find out why they missed our radar.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_538_Top_End_Game_Bonuses_We_Dont_Own..mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: 538 - Games with end game bonuses that we do not own.

We have a list of 14 games that are in the top 40 games that we do not own. We look at these games and find out why they missed our radar.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_538_Top_End_Game_Bonuses_We_Dont_Own..mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

MN Bonus Episode 12: Board Game Art

This bonus episode is an answer to the big question, "What board game art has moved us?". Well tune on in and listen to us discuss it. Art, minis, and game appeal.

Come join us at the game table. 

Direct download: MN_BE_12_Mail_Bag_2.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 537: Top five games with end game bonuses.

This week is all about games with those sometimes hidden points that show up at the end of the game and can make or break someone's chance of victory.

Come join us at the game table. 

Direct download: MN_537_Top_Five_End_Game_Bonuses.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

MN Bonus Episode 11 Mail Bag Question 1.

How has the evolution of the gaming hobby changed over the years? How has it affected us, and how do we see it affecting us in the future?

Come join us at the games and we discuss this thought.

Direct download: Bonus_Mail_Bag_Episode_1.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

MN Podcast episode 536

This week we're talking about games that feature end game scoring and bonuses.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_536_Games_with_End_Game_Bonuses.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Episode 535 July 2024 News.

It is time for news. We have some highlights from some games that Arcane Wonders sent us, as well as all the fun and excitement that was had at SaltCon Summer. Plus some news too.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_535_July_2024_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

MN Podcast episode 534

This week we're talking about the amazing crowdfunding projects out there that have us reved up! 

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_534_Crowdfunding_Projects_Were_Excited_About_Summer_2024.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Bonus Showdown Episode.

Join us ring side as we discuss our top deduction games and by using Pub Meeple we determine the Meeple Nation top five deduction games.

Come join us at the Game Table.

Direct download: MN_BE_10_Deduction_Game_Showdown.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 12:00pm MST

MN Podcast episode 533

This week we talk about some great highlights and discuss some of the deduction games that have slipped through our fingers.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_533_Top_Deduction_Games_We_Dont_Own.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 532, Our Top Five Deduction Games. 
 
This week we are concluding our continuing our discussion of deduction games with our individual top five games. Do any of your games make our list?

Come join us at the game table!

Direct download: MN_532_Top_5_Deduction_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 531

This week we are talking all about deduction games. The game is afoot dear listener!

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_531_Deduction_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Episode 530 June, 2024 News.

In this episode Doug deals with some new revelations about BGA. We also discuss new games releases, new game announcements, and a couple of crowd funding games on our radar.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_530_June_2024_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 529

This week we are talking about games that have their origins in book, movies, television, and video games, and now can be found on the game table. There is a wide scope of games in this realm and we only hit the tip of mountain of what we have and enjoyed. Come see if some of your favorites made our discussion.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_529_Games_Transfered_from_Media_to_the_Game_Table.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast, Episode 528 Top Deck, Bag, & Pool Building Games We Don't Own

This week we continue our discussion of deck, bag, and or pool building games by talking about a few of them that have slipped under our radar. 

Come Join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_528_Top_Deck_Bag_and_Pool_Building_Games_We_Dont_Own.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Are you ready to rumble? It's time for Meeple Nation's Bonus Episode 9: The Deck, Bag, and Pool Building Brawl!

We've combined each of our top five games - a whopping 14 games across the deck, bag, and pool building mechanics. Using the power of PubMeeple, we'll settle the score and crown the champions of the Meeple Nation top games.

So grab your dice, shuffle your deck, and get ready for an epic showdown!

Come, join us at the game table!

Direct download: MN_BE_9_Deck_Building_Showdown.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 4:48am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast, Episode 527 Top 5 Deckbuilding Games

This week we continue our discussion of deck, bag, and or pool building games by listing our top five picks. Some games my surprise you, some may not. Have a listen and see if any of your games make or lists.

Come Join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_527_Our_Top_Five_Deck_Pool_or_Bag_building_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

MN Podcast episode 526.

This week we talk about some great highlights, and open up our discussion about deck, bag, and pool building games...some of our favorites!

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_526_Deck_Bag__Pool_Building_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 525.

It is time for news! We have several games that we are talking about this episode. There are new games that can be found in the wild. Games to keep on your radar. And, crowdfunding options to watch for too.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_525_May_2024_Newa.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

MN Podcast episode 524.

This week we talk about some great highlights, and discuss some of the games we've finally been able to pull off our shelf of shame.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_524_Games_Weve_Pulled_Off_Our_Shelf_of_Shame.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast: Bonus Episode 8 - Cooperative Game Showdown.

Are you Ready? It is time for another showdown episode, where we take each of our top five cooperative games and discover what the Meeple Nation top five Cooperative Games are.

Come join us at the game table. 

Direct download: MN_BE_8_Co-op_Showdown.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 1:33pm MST

MN Podcast episode 521.

This week we talk about some great highlights, dip into the mailbag, and discuss some of the cooperative games that have slipped through our fingers.

Come join us at the game table.

 

Direct download: MN_523_Top_Cooperative_Games_We_Dont_Own.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 522 Our Top Five Co-op Games.

This week we dive into another great game mechanic. Cooperative games are just plain fun. Did you favorite make any of our top five lists? Let's find out.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_522_Top_Five_Co-op_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

MN Podcast episode 521.

This week we talk about some great highlights and discuss one of our favorite game mechanisms - cooperative play!

Come join us at the game table.

 

Direct download: MN_521_Cooperative_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast Episode 520 March 2024 News.

This week we have a lot of news to cover and 120 minutes to do it in. We discuss new games available now, and games to look for in the future. Also, we cannot skip looking at some new crowd funding.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_520_March_2024_News.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

MN Podcast episode 519.

This week we hit some highlights and count down our top five gateway game suggestions.

Come join us at the game table.

 

Direct download: MN_519_Our_Top_Five_Gateway_Game_Suggestions.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

Meeple Nation Podcast, Bonus Episode 7: 

Are you ready? It is time for the campaign, battle card driven showdown episode. We discuss our combined top five games and together, we work out the Meeple Nation top five.

Come join us at the game table.

Direct download: MN_BE_7_Campaign_Games.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 10:03am MST

MN Podcast episode 518.

This week we hit some highlights and talk about more games we don't own, and maybe even a few we might want to try.

Come join us at the game table.

 

Highlight Games:

Paleo
Heat: Pedal to the Metal
Foundations of Rome
Stars of Akarios
Oathsworn
Ticket to Ride Europe: 10th Anniversary Edition

 

Other Games Discussed:

Twilight Struggle
War of the Ring: Second Edition
War of the Ring
Inis
Commands & Colors: Ancients
Combat Commander: Europe
Paths of Glory
Hannibal: Rome vs. Carthage
Here I Stand
Labyrinth: The War of Terror, 2001-?
Up Front
Command & Colors: Napoleonics
Bloodborne: The Board Game
1960: The Making of the President
Gears of War: The Board Game
Black Rose Wars
Battles of Westeros
Triumph & Tragedy: European Balance of Power 1936-1945
Hammer of the Scots
Churchill

 

 

Direct download: MN_518_Top_Campaign_and_Battle_Card_Driven_Games_We_Dont_Own.mp3
Category:BoardGame -- posted at: 2:00am MST

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