Operation: Game Night

Relocating to a new city comes with many challenges, but for passionate board gamers, one of the most significant hurdles is rebuilding a gaming community from scratch. In this heartfelt and humor-filled episode, we explore the emotional journey of seeking new gaming companions when your established gaming circle suddenly disappears.

Clay shares his unexpected struggle with loneliness despite returning to his Pennsylvania hometown surrounded by family and old friends. His candid admission that he "used to look forward to Fridays" with regular gaming sessions resonates with anyone who's experienced the void left when reliable game nights vanish...

Dive into the charming yet strategically rich world of Raccoon Tycoon, a market manipulation and auction game that offers surprising depth beneath its Victorian-era animal artwork. The OGN crew explores this hidden gem from Forbidden Games that masterfully blends economic mechanics with approachable gameplay.

Ever wonder what happens when you combine adorable anthropomorphic animals with cutthroat economic strategy? Raccoon Tycoon answers this question with its elegant price and production card system that creates genuine moments of excitement as markets rise and fall. The hosts break down how players must carefully time their resource sales, weighing immediate profits...

After taking a much-needed June hiatus, Travis, Jared, and Clay reunite for an episode that feels like catching up with old friends over the fence. Their natural chemistry immediately reignites as they share significant life changes and personal milestones with the authentic, unfiltered conversation that defines Operation Game Night.

Clay's transition to civilian life takes center stage as he details his family's move into a new home, proudly showing off his prized 100-inch TV installation. His candid reflections on starting his first post-military job in construction reveal both the challenges and excitement of this major life change...

Operation Game Night returns with a deep dive into the World Series of Board Gaming as co-host Jared prepares to compete in the Las Vegas tournament this September.

• The tournament structure allows competitors to select specific games rather than requiring mastery of all sixteen featured titles
• Each of the four tournament days features different games with champions advancing to higher rounds
• Winners receive championship rings and compete for a prize pool reportedly worth up to $40,000
• Beyond the main "Ring Events," smaller "Phoenix Games" tournaments offer prizes up to $250
• The event features a massive library of...

Our final episode of Joint Ops June comes from our good friend Amanda Lee and her Have A Seat With Amanda Lee Podcast! 

Clay Gable joins Amanda to discuss his journey from jock to board game podcaster and content creator, sharing insights about his gaming preferences and podcast production experiences.

• Started gaming through family card games and party games while primarily focusing on sports in his youth
• Studied TV production in high school, developing editing skills that would later benefit his content creation
• Created Instagram account "Cardboard and Clay" to connect with other board g...

This edition of Joint Ops June comes from the Games Y Mas Podcast with our good friend Vic! 

Through a series of "This or That" questions, we explore the fundamental divides in gaming preferences that shape how we play.

• Dice vs. Cards - The tactile satisfaction of rolling dice versus the strategic planning of card play
• Area Control vs. Engine Building - Whether controlling territory or optimizing systems creates more satisfying gameplay
• Tile Placement vs. Static Boards - The joy of discovering and building the game map versus traditional fixed boards
• Cooperative vs. Compe...

This edition of Joint Ops June comes from the Games Y Mas Podcast with our good friend Vic (@gamesymaspod)! Dice, duchies, and heated debate! In this episode, we try to determine whether Castles of Burgundy deserves a coveted spot on your gaming shelf or if it's destined for the neighborhood yard sale.

The question seems straightforward enough, but this beloved Stefan Feld classic sparks passionate discussion as we break down what makes a board game truly essential. Our guests, all active duty Air and Space Force officers united by their love of tabletop gaming, bring hundreds of...

Welcome to our first episode of Joint Ops June!

Travis Smith from Operation Game Night podcast joins Have A Seat With Amanda Lee to share how three Air Force officers created a board game podcast to stay connected when stationed across the globe, combining military precision with gaming enthusiasm.

• One-third of Operation Game Night podcast alongside Clay Gable and Jared Erickson
• Air Force officer for 12 years who met his co-hosts while teaching at the Air Force Academy
• Each host brings different gaming preferences – Jared (party games), Clay (technical games), Travis (thematic games)
• Describes...

We're transforming Operation Game Night to better serve our listeners, with exciting changes to our format and schedule coming after a month-long hiatus featuring collaborations with other podcasts.

• Jared reviews Terraforming Mars: The Dice Game, praising its simplified mechanics while maintaining the feel of the original
• Clayton explores the historically-rich Molly House, a game about creating joy in 18th century London among non-gender conforming communities
• Clayton shares his experience with Iliad, a tight two-player abstract battle game designed by Reiner Knizia
• Travis introduces The White Castle, a resource exchange game with unique 3D bridges and chal...

We delve into the fascinating world of push your luck games, examining the psychology behind why these gambling mechanics create some of gaming's most memorable moments.

• How push your luck games level the playing field between experienced and new players
• The distinction between taking a risk and the push your luck mechanic
• Exploring the emotional response when we watch others push their luck
• Games that blend push your luck with other mechanisms like bag building and area control
• Favorite push your luck games including Wonderland's War, Quacks of Quedlinburg, Spots, Ink & Gold, and Captain Fl...

This week Clay and Jared lament the fact that OGN wasn't nominated for a golden geek award. However they put their hurt feelings aside to provide some color commentary the winners and runners up from the 2024 Golden Geek awards. Clay also talks about Cities, a new game by PWH and Steven Finn and Jared talks about one of the pods favorite new games Rebirth. 

00:00 Intro
04:00 Clay Debrief (Cities)
11:55 Jared Debrief (Rebirth)
26:10 Mission Objective (Golden Geek Winners and Runners Up)
01:06:30 Over the Fence

We want to hear from our listeners! Send us a...

This week we diving into the mind of a Lost Ruins of Arnak addict and picking Jared's brain about all the hot tips for breaking 100 points in the game. We also do a Kickstarter Preview for Fight for Inheritance, talk about one of our favorite trick takers, and revel over the amazing production and streamlined gameplay of Foundations of Rome. 

00:00 Intro
04:18 Jared Debrief (Fight for Inheritance)
12:07 Jared Debrief (Skull King)
21:15 Clay Debrief (Foundations of Rome/Metropolis)
31:30 Jared Debrief (Blokus)
35:45 Mission Objective (Lost Ruins of Arnak Strategy)
01:10 Over the Fence

W...

Step behind the counter of a thriving local game store as we sit down with Cam, the heart and soul behind Petrie's Family Games in Colorado Springs. In this candid conversation, Cam reveals how a childhood obsession with Talisman evolved into a beloved community hub that's been bringing gamers together since 2009.

Far from the stereotypical dark, unwelcoming game stores of yesteryear, Cam shares how Petrie's deliberately focused on creating a bright, accessible space where relationships matter more than transactions. "We're not just selling games," he explains, "we're becoming part of people's weekly routines, their culture." This philosophy...

How do you choose the perfect board game for your group size? While many games claim to support various player counts, most have a specific sweet spot where they truly shine. In this intimate, co-host episode, Clay and Travis break down their favorite games for every player count from one to eight players.

For solo gaming, Under Falling Skies and Warps Edge offer engaging, thematic experiences that keep you coming back for more. The duo discusses how two-player gaming has exploded recently with titles like Ironwood, Kelp Shark vs Octopus, and the classics like Schotten Totten creating...

The crew takes their podcast on the road to discuss the best games to bring when traveling. Three board game enthusiasts with different travel constraints share their approaches to portable gaming while preparing for upcoming moves.

• Jared recounts his triumph in Dune Imperium, using intrigue cards to steal victory from inexperienced opponents
• Clay highlights Creature Caravan, a simultaneous-play dice placement game with beautiful art from Red Raven Games
• Travis introduces Stonespine Architects, a blueprint-fulfilling game where players build mazes for heroes to get trapped in
• ButtonShy wallet games earn unanimous praise for their ultra-portable design

We dive into the BoardGameGeek Hotness list to explore what games are capturing the attention of the board game community, while sharing our gaming experiences and insights.

• Jared prepares for the World Series of Board Gaming by planning to relearn Azul
• Clay reviews Expeditions, appreciating its unique action selection system and card-tucking mechanics
• Travis explores digital gaming with Armello, an app that gives Mage Knight vibes with a physical board game version coming in 2025
• We analyze the BoardGameGeek Top 50 Hotness list, from Orleans at #50 to Sanctuary at #1
• Despite our best efforts, we're completely stumped by...

Engine building games create deeply satisfying gameplay experiences that mimic real-life decision-making through resource management and strategic planning. We explore what makes these games so compelling and highlight some of our all-time favorites.

• Engine builders are games where you exchange resources to become more efficient at gathering resources
• Games typically start slow with limited actions, then accelerate as your engine develops
• Splendor represents one of the purest examples of engine building with its gem-collecting mechanics
• Terraforming Mars offers a rich thematic setting where blue cards create powerful ongoing effects
• Gizmos functions like "Splendor on steroid...

We explore the world of weeknight gaming, discussing how board games can transform mundane weekdays into memorable social experiences while balancing time constraints and life responsibilities.

• The group debates what makes a game suitable for weeknight play, considering time, complexity, and energy levels
• Clayton and Jared recount their recent epic game night featuring Incan Gold, Camel Up, 7 Wonders and Zoo Vadis
• Travis contemplates what games to bring to an upcoming session with gamers he doesn't know well
• The hosts reflect on how scheduled weeknight game sessions provided stress relief and community when they worked together...

Tackling listener questions, we dive into board game characters we'd embody, house rules we implement, and how we respond when people dismiss board games as "just for kids."

• Clay defends his monthly board game budget overages as necessary therapeutic purchases
• When it's appropriate to change game rules (party games) versus when to follow them strictly (strategic games)
• Our approach to people who say board games are childish: embrace your inner child
• The dream of opening a board game bar with themed food and a self-serve tap wall
• Why Castles of Burgundy desperately needs a theme ch...

Taye from Instagram account Taye and Company (Instagram @Tae_Eat_Tea) joins us to share an insider's look at board game content creation, from getting review copies to maintaining publisher relationships while staying authentic.

• Tae started his account three years ago solely to get free games and now manages a thriving Instagram presence
• Creating high-quality content with minimal equipment - just an iPhone 13 mini and natural lighting
• How language barriers shape Tae's game collection - preferring icon-based games over text-heavy ones
• The truth about publisher relationships - being "blacklisted" by publishers for honest reviews
• FT...

A fresh perspective on classic card games emerges as we discuss timeless favorites like Rummy and their modern adaptations. We dive into the creative process behind Rumathon Royale, exploring how nostalgia meets innovation.

• Reflection on classic card games’ enduring appeal 
• Introduction and insights from game designer Bryce 
• Overview of Rumathon Royale and its unique features 
• Discussing the elements that make card games last 
• Personal anecdotes and reflections on playing classic games 
• Expectations for the game’s Kickstarter launch 
• Emphasis on the social connection built through card games 

Find out more about Rumathon Royal...

Clay is in the Hall of Fame! Jared and Travis do our best without him by  exploring of how AI can innovate board game design. We dive into the interplay of personal stories and gaming mechanics that make for a captivating episode.

• Celebrating Clay’s accomplishments and our pride in him 
• Sharing highlights from our recent gaming sessions 
• Discussing how AI could lead to exciting board game expansions 
• Pitching two AI-generated expansions for Western Legends 
• Encouraging reflection on the role of AI in creative endeavors 

Thank you for tuning in! Don’t forget to send Cla...

It's the ultimate showdown in small box games, as we pit favorites against each other to crown a champion! 

• Clayton shares his thoughts on SETI and how theme impacts gameplay experience
• Jared discusses his strategy and experience with Gizmos 
• The competition begins with matchups revealing personal favorites and mechanics 
• We explore auction strategies in games like For Sale and Castle Combo 

Which games will fall short? Which ones will go the distance? Listen to find out now!

Have some thoughts/opinions on the bracket? Hit us up On Ins...

Our conversation with Sam touched on important aspects of the board gaming community, especially in how to engage with it without succumbing to the pressures of FOMO. We discussed how listeners can keep their gaming experiences fresh by revisiting older classics, attending local meetups, and taking advantage of second-hand options. Sam’s journey in game design reveals the layers of creativity within the hobby and emphasizes the significance of community in enriching our gaming experiences. We encourage everyone to reflect on their own gaming habits and how they can find joy in connection rather than consumption. 

• Discussion on th...

Join us for a deep dive into the world of game design with Paul Salomon, the creative director at GameHead Games. Paul shares insights on mechanics, themes, and the exciting upcoming titles from GameHead, while also providing tips for aspiring game designers on how to break into the industry. 

• Discussion on the importance of gameplay mechanics over world-building 
• Insights into hit games like "Honey Buzz" and "Scythe" 
• Tips for aspiring designers on feedback and prototyping 
• Overview of GameHead's future projects and design philosophy 
• Encouragement for audience interaction on game ideas and experiences

https://gamer...

This episode highlights the growing appeal and enjoyment of solo board gaming, featuring a discussion with guest Bo from PunchableGames (https://www.instagram.com/punchablegames?igsh=MWlkMzJ1N2Nrb2xiYw) who shares insights on solo game mechanics, recommendations, and barriers to solo play. The hosts also reflect on their recent gaming experiences, emphasizing the strategies that make solo gaming rewarding.

• The appeal of solo gaming during the pandemic 
• Highlighting games like 'Wingspan,' 'A Feast for Odin,' and 'Long shot' 
• Understanding the difference between input and output randomness 
• Recommended solo games that are easy to set...

Finspan's launch has ignited discussions around creativity in board games, with players questioning whether it's a genuine evolution of Wingspan or simply a cash grab. The episode delves into these concerns while examining existing trends in re-skins, the financial realities behind board game companies, and the responsibility of designers to give credit where it's due.

• Finspan ignites controversy in the gaming community 
• The impact of Wingspan’s success on the board game market 
• Debating the necessity of re-skinning in board game design 
• The importance of financial viability for small publishers 
• Striking a balance between original...

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes when organizing a board game collection? You're in for a treat as we reveal our quirky stories and strategies, from thematic displays to makeshift shelving solutions, all aimed at keeping those treasured game boxes in perfect order. Whether it's daydreaming about custom-made shelves or battling our hoarding tendencies, this episode captures the art of balancing aesthetics and practicality. With a nod to our listeners, we also tackle a recent one-star review with humor and gratitude, urging everyone to keep the feedback coming.

Join us as we unravel the strategic...

Clay breaks down the new hotness, River of Gold. Travis lays out the newest in the Tiny Epic series, Tiny Epic Cthulhu. Jared has a tough choice on his hands in the latest Board Game Head-to-Head. 

Planning a game night with six players can be both exciting and challenging. We explore the dynamics of engaging larger gatherings, highlighting the best games like Dune for deeper strategy and Zoo Vadis for interactive fun. Join us to discover your next favorite game night adventure!

• Exploring six-player game dynamics 
• Recommendations for engaging and strategic games 
• Breakdown of Dune's...

Kicking off the New Year with a bang, we dive into a world of camaraderie, shared experiences, and our latest hobby escapades. Picture this: we're in Alabama, and the weather has gone rogue! Meanwhile, our theater misadventures in London's West End leave us in stitches over an untimely half-time departure from "Wicked." And just when you think the holiday stories can't get any crazier, I confess my newfound obsession with Warhammer, prompting disbelief and laughter from Clay and Jared as we nerd out over Space Marines and lizard-like Tyranids.

Joining us this episode is the energetic Tara...

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Get ready to board a thrilling journey with us at the Operation Game Night Podcast as we explore the electrifying world of board games alongside Amanda from EmptyNestBoardMama. Amanda serves as our boots-on-the-ground correspondent, bringing a vibrant PAX Unplugged review to life, while Clayton kicks off the episode with his take on the captivating mechanics of Architects of the West Kingdom. Our discussions embody the camaraderie that board gaming fosters, offering a window into the joy and community these games inspire.

Fly high with us as we dive into the immersive experience of Sky Team, a top...

Back on home turf, we welcome Clayton Gable back from his break and dive into our holiday gift guide, brimming with must-have games and accessories to make any gamer's season truly festive. Clayton shares his newfound love for Fromage, a cheese-making board game that has us all craving more rounds of its delightful worker placement mechanics.

Our gaming adventures continued with a slew of new experiences and mixed feelings. We couldn't resist the allure of deluxe board game components and the fast-paced fun of games like "Super Mega Lucky Box" and "That's Not a Hat" during our...

While Clay and Jared grab some well-deserved R&R, Travis recounts some solo games he wants to get played! It's a shorter episode this week, but we hit the highlights with games such as For Northwood!, Coffee Roaster, Regicide Legacy, Dead Cells: The Rogue-Like Board Game, Lord of the Rings: Journeys in Middle Earth, Tainted Grail: Tides of Ruin, Batman: Gotham City Chronicles, Underwater Cities, and Zoo Tycoon: The Board Game!

From solo only to solo mode adaptations, this game has something for everyone that has ever found themselves riding solo!

We want to hear...

Travis, Clayton, and Jared convene for a Thanksgiving special, where share our gratitude for our favorite hobby...board gaming! From Clayton's excitement over acquiring the rare Whale Riders by Reiner Knizia to planning innovative game nights with creative charcuterie boards, we celebrate the joy and camaraderie that board games bring into our lives.

Experience the thrill of uncovering strategic gems like Conservas, a solo game by Scott Almes, and the bustling fun of Circus Flohcati by Reiner Knizia. Our adventures don't stop at the gaming table; we also share insights on sustainability in board game production, offering...

Get ready to explore the captivating universe of board games as we share our strategies for mastering "Tapestry" by Stonemaier Games. We highlight the excitement of efficiency puzzles, especially with the game's digital version on Board Game Arena. Our gaming tales span from "Super Mega Lucky Box" to "Dice Miner," perfect for adding a competitive edge to any gathering. Plus, we dive into the realm of digital board gaming, praising the online adaptations of beloved titles like "Wingspan," "Dune Imperium," and "Root." Memorable in-person family gaming sessions also take the spotlight, featuring surprises and triumphs with games like "Wild...

Happy Veteran's Day and Marine Corps Birthday! We venture into the dynamic world of board games, spotlighting "Super Mega Lucky Box," a digital game that adds a strategic twist to the classic bingo, and recounting our hilarious mishaps with "That's Not a Hat," a game that guarantees laughs even when we fumble the rules.

We then shift gears to a pair of party games that promise to spark creativity and camaraderie. In "Gorilla Marketing," players unleash their inner ad execs, dreaming up quirky product names and catchy slogans, while "Green Team Wins" challenges everyone to predict the...

Discover 30 intriguing board games under $30 in just 30 seconds each, and uncover the secrets to thrifty gaming greatness! Our latest podcast episode marks a special milestone as we celebrate our 12th installment with a whirlwind budget-friendly game segment that promises to enrich your collection without breaking the bank. Join us for a deep dive into our recent gaming adventures, where we share insights into "Distilled," a captivating game that challenges players to craft the finest spirits. With a new cocktail expansion in the works, the comparison between "Distilled" and "Viticulture" offers a glimpse into the streamlined complexities of ingredient management...

Join us for a Festivus celebration as we air our gaming grievances. From the overwhelming complexity of "Unconscious Mind" to the simpler joys of "Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle Earth," our chat navigates the evolution of personal gaming tastes and the importance of finding what truly brings joy to the table. With a humorous Seinfeld twist, we explore how the right group can turn even the most daunting games into a delightful experience.

Switching gears, we venture into the wild with nature-themed games and the quick escape of puzzle-solving adventures. Discover the strategic charm and...

Have you ever wondered what board games could keep you entertained on a deserted island? Discover our top picks for the rest of our lives as we celebrate nearing 1,000 Instagram followers and give special shoutouts. With Jared away, we still manage to hold down the fort, sharing our latest gaming experiences and exciting plans for a new logo that might just turn into fan merchandise.

Get ready to be transported to ancient Egypt with Ankh: Gods of Egypt, where we explore its intricate two-player strategies and unique action/event system. Ankh shines with its card-based conflict system...