In this episode of Twenty Minute Tabletop podcast, Tom and Kev have a catch-up chat about a whole host of games! Video podcast version available on the Patreon!

Links from This Episode

🔹 Ortomnia Kick Starter Page by Deli Straußberger

🔹 Slapshot Showdown Fantasy Hockey Miniatures Game

🔹 Port Royal BGG Page

🔹 MTG Spell Table by Wizards of the Coast

🎙️ Podcast Summary: MtG, Slapshot Showdown, Port Royal, Malifaux and Ortomnia!

🏴‍☠Port Royal: A Family Holiday Favorite

Host Thomas shared his experience of playing “Port Royal,” a card game that unexpectedly became a family favorite during their Easter holiday in Madeira. Inspired by the Caribbean’s pirate legends, the game involves a clever push-your-luck mechanic that kept both adults and kids entertained. Despite its seemingly simple premise, Port Royal proved to be a fascinating way to engage with family, even becoming a topic of conversation about game mechanics and design. Thomas remains ambivalent about recommending it, calling it a reliable, if not groundbreaking, entrant in the card game genre.

🏒Slapshot Showdown and Strategic Challenges

Meanwhile, Kev celebrated his love for “Slapshot Showdown,” a game reminiscent of a “Blood Bowl” but centered on ice hockey. This elevates strategic sports-themed board gaming, capturing the essence of a sport in miniature form. Kev appreciates the craftsmanship and dedication put into its creation, even as the game’s unique challenges, such as tariff-induced production woes, remain ongoing concerns.

🧙‍♂️The Living World of Magic: The Gathering

Magic: The Gathering (MTG) serves as a backbone of our cultural board game conversations. Despite its commercialized evolution, MTG remains a staple in our gaming diet. Kev recently dusted off his old Commander decks and is considering re-engaging with the game. The entry of IP tie-ins has sparked debate, but MTG persists as a pivotal connection between gaming generations.

🃏The Quest for Novelty in Card Games

Discussing new opportunities, Kev introduced “Nia: The Broken Trinity,” a fascinating new Trading Card Game (TCG) from Germany that blends Player vs. Environment dynamics with traditional card battles. This innovative approach has piqued interest, promising a fresh look at how card games can evolve beyond pure player competition.

💸Navigating Change in the Gaming Industry

Finally, our co-hosts turned their attention to the broader landscape of tabletop games. They tackled the economic pressures behind international game distribution, including tariffs and shipping woes that create barriers to market entry. Yet, amidst these challenges, new models and inspirations for game distribution and development are emerging, offering hope for a more accessible gaming future.