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Mark and Rob talk about the games that they played lately, some recent news, and then discuss how influencers can affect our hobby. Games discussed in this episode include: Awkward Guests: The Walton Case, Maquis, Potato Man, Unfathomable, Marvel Dice Throne Missions, Sanctuary, Aquaria, Pondscape, Dead of Winter: A Crossroads Game, Wroth, Shackleton Base: A

In this episode of 'This Board Game Life', hosts Rob and Mark discuss the influence of media on the board gaming community, sharing insights from their recent gaming experiences and reviews. They explore various games played, including 'Maquis', 'Potato Man', 'Awkward Guests', and 'Unfathomable', while also reflecting on the impact of conventions and community engagement. The conversation delves into the mechanics and innovations in gaming, as well as the complexities of media influence, including the ethics of paid reviews and the importance of honest feedback. The episode concludes with thoughts on future expectations in the gaming world. Rob and Mark discuss the complexities of game reviews, the balance between positivity and honesty, and the pressure to keep up with new releases in the gaming world. They emphasize the value of older games, the necessity of gaming tables, and the often-overlooked debate on game expansions. The conversation also touches on the influence of media on gaming choices, the reality of learning new games, and the importance of local gaming communities. Ultimately, they highlight the joy of the hobby and the positive aspects of gaming media.

In this episode Mark dives into the unboxing of Compile Main 2 from Synapses Games. He introduces the game as a competitive card game where players embody artificial intelligences striving to understand various concepts through gameplay. Mark elaborates on the mechanics, explaining how players select protocols and utilize card actions to outmaneuver their opponents. The game features 12 new protocols, including chaos, clarity, and war, which can be played alone or mixed with the original Compile game, enhancing replayability and strategic depth. Mark shares his personal experiences with the game, discussing the aesthetics of the cards and the overall design. He humorously notes the distinct smell of the game box, comparing it to a carpet store, and highlights the beautiful artwork that accompanies each protocol. As he showcases the cards, he emphasizes the importance of visual appeal in board games and expresses his eagerness to play Compile Mane 2 again. The episode wraps up with a reminder for listeners to engage with the content by liking and subscribing, ensuring they stay updated on future episodes. https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/440606/compile-main-2

In this episode Mark shares his recent experiences at a local board gaming convention, highlighting both new acquisitions and games he played during the event. He discusses his excitement about picking up the Collector's Edition of 'Everdell,' emphasizing the quality of the components and the care taken by the previous owner. Mark also introduces several other games he acquired, including 'Flashpoint Fire Rescue' and 'Airlines Europe,' explaining their cooperative gameplay and thematic elements. He reflects on the fun he had at the convention, mentioning various games he played, such as 'Aquaria' and 'Blood on the Clock Tower,' and expresses his enthusiasm for the community aspect of board gaming. https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/440606/compile-main-2

In this episode Mark introduces his storage solution for the popular card game Dominion. He discusses the challenges of organizing the game's numerous cards and shares his experience with 3D printed inserts that enhance storage efficiency. Mark demonstrates how to maximize space in the game box while ensuring easy access to cards and components, making it easier for players to enjoy the game. https://makerworld.com/en/models/550882-dominion-storage-system#profileId-841653 https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/209418/dominion-second-edition

In this episode, Mark unboxes several board games, focusing on the Dominion series and its expansions. He discusses his recent introduction to the game, the various expansions he has acquired, and the importance of organizing game components. Mark also shares his experience with 3D printing inserts to enhance game storage and accessibility, and he hints at future content related to game organization and unboxing. https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/209418/dominion-second-edition