Shows
Bitewing Games PodcastThe Bits with Joe & Nick — Episode 5: Boxes & PackagingNote: This episode also exists in video form on YouTube.Joe (Allplay) and Nick (Bitewing Games) discuss the thing that holds the bits — board game boxes and packaging:How much does the box matter?Box sizes — big vs small, airy vs tightAlternatives to standard boxesBox backs — thinking outside the boxCheck out the current Kickstarter for Bitewing's Travel Line: Gazebo and Gingham.Subscribe to the Bitewing Games NewsletterSubscribe to the Allplay Newsletter (near the bottom of this page)2025-05-121h 20
Bitewing Games PodcastThe Bits with Joe & Nick — Episode 4: Board Game ComponentsNote: This episode also exists in video form on YouTube.Joe (Allplay) and Nick (Bitewing Games) discuss components in board games:The value of component hooks/gimmicks. Can games be too overproduced or too underproduced? The impact of components in the board game experience.Check out the upcoming Kickstarter for Bitewing's Travel Line: Gazebo and Gingham.Subscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter: https://bitewinggames.com/subscribe/Subscribe to the Allplay Newsletter (near the bottom of this page): https://www.allplay.com2025-03-311h 06
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of The Fellowship of the Ring: Trick-Taking Game, SETI, Altay, Nova Era, and Agent AvenueNick shares his 1st impressions of 5 new board games:0:42 - Agent Avenue5:13 - Altay: Dawn of Civilization8:50 - The Fellowship of the Ring: Trick-Taking Game12:34 - Nova Era18:20 - SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence2025-02-2523 min
Bitewing Games PodcastMerchants of Andromeda Preview — The Biggest Allplay Game Ever?After two plays, Nick shares his experience and impressions in this full preview of Merchants of Andromeda by Reiner Knizia and Robert Hovakimyan.2025-02-1016 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 20 Board Games of 2024Nick shares his Top 20 Board Games of 2024 as well as many other awards for what was a killer year for board gaming.2025-02-0334 min
Bitewing Games PodcastThe Bits with Joe & Nick (& Special Guest Robert Hovakimyan) — Episode 3: DevelopmentNote: This episode also exists in video form on YouTube.Joe (Allplay) and Nick (Bitewing Games) discuss board game development. What is development? How do publishers take a design from signed prototype to published game? Best practices for board game development?Subscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter: https://bitewinggames.com/subscribe/Subscribe to the Allplay Newsletter (near the bottom of this page): https://www.allplay.com2025-01-281h 08
Bitewing Games PodcastThe Bits with Joe & Nick — Episode 2: ConventionsNote: This episode also exists in video form on YouTube.Joe (from Allplay) and Nick (from Bitewing Games) share insights and experiences of board game publishing! Get a peek behind the curtains of the board game industry. This series is meant to be both interesting to hobbyist gamers and helpful to other publishers, designers, and professionals in board games.In this episode, Joe and Nick discuss board game conventions. What is their purpose? How do publishers make the most of them?If you want to catch up on previous episodes, then head over...2025-01-201h 17
Bitewing Games PodcastMost Anticipated Games of 2025Nick shares 18 of his most anticipated Board Games of 2025!Preorder Iliad, Ichor, SILOS, EGO, and/or ORBIT here.Subscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter here.2025-01-0614 min
Bitewing Games PodcastRevisiting the Best Games of 2023Nick revisits over 50 of the best board games of 2023 by categorizing them into lovers, keepers, dumpers, flingers, and seekers.Don't miss out on a huge upcoming year for Bitewing Games! Be sure to subscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter.2024-12-2328 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 100 Board Games of All Time, 2024 Edition — Games 25-1Nick finishes his Top 100 Board Games of All Time list by sharing games 25-1 (plus how he would rank Bitewing's publications among his Top 100).Check out SILOS, EGO, and ORBIT on Kickstarter!2024-11-0745 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 100 Board Games of All Time, 2024 Edition — Games 50-26Nick continues his Top 100 Board Games of All Time list by sharing games 50-26. Check out Reiner Knizia's SHOCKING Confession Video.Check out the Epic Knizia Project, now live on Kickstarter.2024-10-2327 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 100 Board Games of All Time, 2024 Edition — Games 75-51Nick continues his Top 100 Board Games of All Time list by sharing games 75-51. Check out Reiner Knizia's SHOCKING Confession Video.Check out the Epic Knizia Project, now live on Kickstarter.2024-10-1624 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 100 Board Games of All Time, 2024 Edition — Games 100-76Nick shares his Top 100 Board Games of All Time, starting with games 100-76!Follow the Secret Epic Big Box Knizia Kickstarter Project, launching this month!2024-10-0824 min
Price. Sell. Paint.The Painting Industry is Broken! // Nick SlavikToday, Jon Bryant & Michael Murray are thrilled to chat with Nick Slavik, a 32-year master craftsman and Board Chair of the Painting Contractors Association (PCA). They talk about setting proper expectations for sales reps, the importance of volume in estimating, and the current challenges in finding leads. Nick emphasizes the need for consistency and effort in sales and marketing, and focusing on personal connections and reactivating past clients. He also shares on the importance of building local relationships and the effectiveness of personal connections in marketing and recruiting. The discussion ends on the role of in-person events and the...2024-09-1858 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Arcs, Things in Rings, Courtisans, Ark Nova: Marine Worlds, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of board games he's been playing lately:0:41 - Courtisans3:43 - Ark Nova: Marine Worlds7:42 - Klink11:22 - Heat: Heavy Rain Expansion13:55 - Expressions17:46 - Things in Rings21:48 - ArcsDon't miss our Secret Epic Big Box Knizia Project launching in October! Subscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter to follow along.2024-09-0333 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Harmonies, Iki, Knarr, Pax Penning, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of new-ish games he has been playing recently:0:49 - Iki3:27 - Palmyra (Buy Low Sell High)6:12 - Harmonies9:33 - A Message from the Stars12:40 - Pax Penning17:45 - KnarrCheck out our new releases (now shipping worldwide) including Cascadero, Cascadito, Spectral, and Trailblazers: Sasquatch Expansion.2024-07-2221 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Skyrise, Apiary, Innovation, and more!Nick shares his first impressions of new-to-him board games he's been playing lately:Through the Desert: Bazaar Expansion - 0:45Innovation - 6:26Apiary - 11:13Wonder Bowling - 14:46Skyrise - 17:23London (Second Edition) - 25:22Great Plains - 27:50Follow the Kickstarter page for Iliad and Ichor. Thanks for your support!2024-05-2232 minBitewing Games PodcastCardboard Philosophy and Jazzy GamingNick is joined by the excellent Cardboard Philosophy podcast where they discuss their show, the Jazz Collection, and their prognosis of board games they've been playing lately.Check out the Cardboard Philosophy Podcast here.Check out the episode that Nick joined here.Check out the Jazz Collection Kickstarter here.2024-04-161h 26
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Ticket to Ride Legacy, Galactic Renaissance, Sol: Last Days of a Star, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of the following new(ish) board games:0:42 - Galactic Renaissance3:56 - Clash of the Gladiators7:56 - Sol: Last Days of a Star13:52 - Die Patin, Löwenherz19:42 - Botanik24:16 - Ticket to Ride Legacy: Legends of the WestOur Jazz Collection Kickstarter (Bebop, Shuffle & Swing, and Cat Blues) is now live! Check out the Kickstarter here.2024-04-1131 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of 10 Knizia Games — City of the Living, Money, Keltis, and more!Nick shares his first impressions of another big batch of Knizia games... from old classics to recent reskins!0:52 - Penguin Party3:41 - Genial Spezial6:08 - Tatari11:05 - City of the Living16:34 - Keltis + New Ways, New Goals Expansion19:06 - Keltis: Fun & Go21:35 - Genesis25:42 - Reif fur die Insel29:23 - King's Road32:54 - MoneyFollow our upcoming Jazz Collection Kickstarter here.2024-03-1939 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of World Wonders, Marabunta, Couture, Chomp, Strike, and more!Nick shares his first impressions of new-ish board games he's been playing lately:0:42 - Strike3:43 - Sobek: 2 Players8:46 - Ingenious (2023 Edition)11:35 - World Wonders15:17 - Chomp17:40 - Couture20:06 - MarabuntaFollow our jazz game Kickstarter project here.2024-02-2728 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 15 Board Games of 2023 + A New Bitewing Project Reveal!Nick shares his Top 15 Board Games of 2023 and reveals the next big Kickstarter project coming from Bitewing Games.Follow the Jazz Collection Kickstarter page here.Learn more about Bebop here.Learn more about Shuffle & Swing here.Learn more about Cat Blues: The Big Gig here.2024-02-1233 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Sail, Witchcraft, Undaunted: Battle of Britain, Patterns, Bacon, Lunar, Mori, and Pies!Nick shares his 1st impressions of 7 new board games including 5 trick takers, 3 two-players, and 1 solo game.0:45 - Sail2:48 - Patterns: A Mandala Game5:39 - Undaunted: Battle of Britain9:37 - Pies, Lunar, Mori, and Bacon20:54 - Witchcraft! (also listen to my thoughts on Resist!)2024-01-2424 min
Bitewing Games PodcastMost Anticipated Games of 2024Nick shares his 25 Most Anticipated Games of 2024 and leaks some teasers about Bitewing Games' next big reveals.Preorder Cascadero, Cascadito, Spectral and/or Trailblazers: Sasquatch Expansion here.Subscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter here to follow our upcoming Kickstarter project!2024-01-0219 min
Bitewing Games PodcastRevisiting the Best Board Games of 2022Nick looks back on over 50 of the best board games of 2022 and categorizes them into lovers, keepers, dumpers, flingers, and seekers.Check out similar look back posts of 2019, 2020, and 2021 releases.Subscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter2023-12-2136 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of General Orders, Thunder Road: Vendetta, Havalandi, Amun-Re: 20th Anniversary Edition, Sea Salt & Paper, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of (mostly) recent releases and hot 2023 board games:0:49 - General Orders: World War II5:09 - Loot8:13 - Sea Salt & Paper12:42 - Havalandi19:10 - Dragonkeepers22:50 - Thunder Road: Vendetta27:01 - Amun-Re: 20th Anniversary Edition2023-12-1233 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Sky Team, MLEM: Space Agency, Match of the Century, Lacuna, Quest for El Dorado: Dragons, Treasures & Mysteries, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of the following board games:0:46 - Sky Team4:33 - The Quest for El Dorado: Dragons, Treasures, & Mysteries14:26 - Match of the Century19:13 - Cat Ass Trophy / Zero Down22:14 - Lacuna24:22 - MLEM: Space AgencyCheck out our Black Friday Stocking Stuffer Sale2023-11-2236 minBitewing Games PodcastBattle of the B-Sides — A Draft of Knizia's Hidden GemsNick is joined by fellow Reiner Knizia Enthusiasts, Scott and Jared, as they draft and discuss the B-Side games (underdogs, hidden gems, unsung newcomers, etc.) from Knizia's catalogue. Cast your vote (and enter the contest to win a free game) here.Join the Reiner Knizia Enthusiasts Discord Server here.Check out the Ultimate Reiner Knizia Ranked Tier List here.Preorder Cascadero and Cascadito here.2023-11-141h 17
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of My Island, Sunrise Lane, and SIXTEEN MORE Knizia games!Nick shares his 1st impressions of EIGHTEEN Reiner Knizia board games in this marathon episode of candid cardboard:1:23 - My Island5:18 - Galaxy Cat Extension9:16 - Pick a Pen Trilogy (Crypten, Riffen, Tuinen)13:19 - Yangtze17:11 - Sunrise Lane / Rondo23:13 - Amun-Re: The Card Game27:11 - Karate Tomate31:35 - 2023-10-031h 02
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of TEN Knizia Games!Nick shares his 1st impressions of a whopping 10 Reiner Knizia board games spanning a wide range of genres.1:10 - Foodie Forest6:38 - Dragon Land10:36 - Medici: The Dice Game14:38 - The Lord of the Rings17:17 - Chartae20:53 - Lost Cites: Rivals23:37 - Cheeky Monkey25:56 - High Society30:48 - Res Publica33:42 - Classic ArtFollow the Kickstarter page for Cascadero & Cascadito here.Join the Reiner Knizia Enthusiasts Discord Community here.2023-09-2139 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 15 Tile Placement Games + Two New Knizia Games Revealed!In celebration of our newly revealed tile placement games, Nick shares his Top 15 Tile Layers!Learn more about our new Knizia titles: Cascadero and CascaditoFollow the Kickstarter page for Cascadero and Cascadito here.2023-09-1228 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Archeos Society, Challengers, That's Not a Hat, Viking See-Saw, Ninja Master, and more!Nick shares his first impressions of 7 recently released board games:0:48 - Archeos Society6:11 - Judge Domino9:00 - Stick Collection11:37 - Ninja Master15:40 - Viking See-Saw19:30 - That's Not a Hat22:39 - Challengers!Check out our Kickstarter campaign for Spectral and Trailblazers: Sasquatch here.Now available from our webstore — Zoo Vadis and Gussy Gorillas. Order today!2023-08-2831 min
Bitewing Games PodcastSpectral Publisher Diary: How I ended up publishing something that I initially had zero interest in — a logic deduction game.In this episode, Nick shares the interesting tale of how Spectral went from a game he had zero interest in all the way to his absolute favorite game of its genre... a game that he loves so much that he had to publish it himself. Who doesn't love a good underdog story? 😉Check out the Kickstarter campaign for Spectral here.2023-08-2113 min
Bitewing Games PodcastMost Anticipated Games of 2023 Part 2Nick shares 23 of his most anticipated board games and crowdfunding campaigns for the second half of 2023.Check out the Kickstarter Page for Spectral & Trailblazers: Sasquatch Expansion HereSubscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter HereOther cited podcast episodes:Full thoughts on Pick-A-Pepper and Wandering TowersTop 15 Games of 20222023-07-2722 min
Bitewing Games Podcast10 Board Game Genres - Their Weaknesses, And The Games That Defy ThemWe all have our favorite genres and mechanisms of board games... from deck building to roll & writes to area control and more. In this episode, Nick explores 10 board game genres, identifies their common weaknesses, and highlights specific games that defy those weaknesses.2023-07-1819 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Wandering Towers, Pick-a-Pepper, 7 Wonders: Architects, Mille Fiori: The Masterpieces, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of new-ish and upcoming board games including:0:49 - Wandering Towers4:38 - Pick-A-Pepper and Abluxxen9:49 - Circus Flohcati13:08 - Trajan16:49 - QE: Commodities (expansion)20:23 - 7 Wonders: Architects23:02 - Mille Fiori: The Masterpieces (expansion)Join the Reiner Knizia Enthusiasts Discord Server HereCheck out our games and webstore here.Follow our upcoming Kickstarter — Spectral and a Secret Trailblazers Expansion — here.2023-07-1032 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of My City: Roll & Build, Earth, Inside Job, Pollen, Big Top, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of a rather solid batch of 7 board games:0:42 - Big Top3:51 - Hallertau6:29 - My City: Roll & Build15:29 - Yokohama17:51 - Earth23:00 - Inside Job27:14 - PollenOrder Trailblazers (and other Bitewing titles) from our new webstore here.Subscribe to our newsletter here.2023-06-1332 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 10 Deduction Games + New Game Revealed!Today Nick is sharing his Top 10 Logic Deduction Games, and be sure to stick around for the grand reveal of Bitewing Games’ next big project!Check out our new game here.2023-05-1516 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Paint the Roses, Turncoats, Cascadia, High Score, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of newer board games including:0:38 - Dandelions3:28 - High Score9:11 - Turncoats13:02 - Paint the Roses19:00 - Cascadia22:55 - SWAT!24:49 - nanaClick here to subscribe to the Bitewing Games newsletter and be notified when: Zoo Vadis becomes available for preorderTrailblazers becomes available on our webstoreWe reveal new information about our upcoming projects2023-04-0627 min
Bitewing Games PodcastGalactic Renaissance Preview — Should You Back this Spiritual Cousin to Inis?In this Galactic Renaissance Preview, Nick dives deep into this cosmic spiritual cousin of the legendary board game, Inis!Galactic Renaissance launches on Kickstarter on March 21st. Check it out here.2023-03-2011 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of 6 more Reiner Knizia Games!The hunt is on, and Nick has been tearing through even more board games by Reiner Knizia in a quest to uncover hidden gems. Featuring his first impressions of:0:45 - Lost Cities: The Board Game3:45 - Odd Socks / Relationship Tightrope7:18 - Wiener Walzer10:56 - Medici: The Card Game13:58 - Forbidden City18:44 - Cat Blues / Katzenjammer Blues2023-03-0623 minBitewing Games PodcastWhen Modules Go Too Far — Podcast Exclusive Discussion w/ KyleKyle is back on the show with Nick to discuss board game modules. When do they go too far? How are they different from variants and expansions? Games discussed include: TrailblazersClever 4 EverZoo VadisWhale RidersBohnanzaTaverns of TiefenthalOur upcoming Ryan Courtney deduction game and Reiner Knizia tile placement gameAnd more!Subscribe to the Bitewing Games newsletter here.Look for Kyle at Salt Con and Nick at Dice Tower West in March! Join our Bitewing Games discord server here. Feel free to reach out if you want to game with us at these conventions.2023-02-2837 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Galactic Renaissance, Undaunted: Stalingrad, Terra Nova, Skymines, Spots, and more...Today's round of candid cardboard is extra special in that it includes Nick's 1st impressions of the hotly anticipated upcoming game Galactic Renaissance. But before we get to that, let's explore 6 other games he has been playing lately...0:42 - Undaunted: Stalingrad4:45 - Spots10:04 - Gutenberg13:17 - Blood Rage17:51 - Skymines20:35 - Terra Nova23:02 - Galactic RenaissanceOur Kickstarter for Zoo Vadis and Gussy Gorillas ends this Thursday, February 16. Check it out here. Thanks for your support!2023-02-1331 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Heat: Petal to the Medal, Turing Machine, Planet Unknown, Axio, and more!Some of the hottest board games of 2022 are still hitting Nick's table and he's ready to share his first impressions of the following:0:43 - Axio / Ingenious4:41 - Turing Machine9:45 - Planet Unknown14:37 - Horrified: American Monsters19:36 - Heat: Pedal to the Metal2023-01-1631 min
Bitewing Games PodcastMost Anticipated Games of 2023Nick has researched and uncovered 27 — count 'em, TWENTY-SEVEN — exciting games set to release this year. Come check out what upcoming releases might be worthy of your wishlist...For links to (and more info on) these games, head over to the blog post version of this podcast episode.We're launching Zoo Vadis and Gussy Gorillas on January 24th via Kickstarter! Be sure to follow this link and click to be notified at launch. Thanks for your support!2023-01-1028 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Ahoy, John Company: Second Edition, Wormholes, Kabuto Sumo: Total Mayhem, and more!Nick shares his first impressions of 4 spicy hot board games, 2 stone-cold classics, and 1 hidden gem:0:56 - Ahoy5:09 - Orleans8:14 - Kabuto Sumo: Total Mayhem (Expansion)11:16 - Carcassonne: The Castle / Zamek14:51 - Wormholes19:10 - Space Worm23:26 - John Company: Second EditionIn January 2023, we’ll be launching Zoo Vadis (by Reiner Knizia) and Gussy Gorillas (a Bitewing Games or...2022-12-2031 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Ready Set Bet, The Wolves, Guards of Atlantis II, Splendor Duel, 9 Lives, and more!Lookout! Loads of interesting new games have been hitting store shelves recently and Nick is here to share his 1st impressions after playing the following:0:49 - Splendor Duel3:49 - Guards of Atlantis II9:16 - Qin13:15 - The Manhattan Project: Energy Empire15:32 - 9 Lives18:22 - The Wolves22:31 - Ready Set BetZoo Vadis and Gussy Gorillas are launching via Kickstarter in January! Check out the pre-launch page here.2022-12-1329 min
Bitewing Games PodcastRevisiting the Best Board Games of 2021The year is coming to an end which means it’s time again to look back… not on this year but on last year. That’s right, today we’ll be revisiting and reminiscing the best board games of 2021!Nick will be offering his thoughts on over 50 games and categorizing them into Lovers, Keepers, Dumpers, Flingers, and Seekers.2022-12-0525 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Nightmare Productions, Carnegie, Puzzle Strike 2, Resist!, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of hot board games including the following:0:40 - Nightmare Productions5:52 - Zombie Mania10:39 - Transatlantic13:24 - Puzzle Strike 216:55 - Resist!20:15 - Carnegie2022-11-2025 min
Peak Paddle Performance PodcastPPP Episode 40: Tragedy on Lake MichiganOn October 8th the Great Lakes paddling community suffered on incomprehensible loss when Nick Walton succumbed to hypothermia in a downwind race on Lake Michigan. Nick was a professional canoe racer and over the past couple of years had discovered a love for surfski racing. You can read his full obituary here
I was a participant in the race and have spoke with many of the racers since the incident occurred. This podcast is my best attempt to explain what I know from this very tragic day.
There are lessons to be learned from what...2022-11-081h 29
Bitewing Games PodcastWhat's Next for Bitewing Games? 2022 and Beyond...Nick shares some exciting new details and publication plans for Bitewing Games including unrevealed Reiner Knizia and Ryan Courtney games coming in 2023 or later!Order Reiner Knizia's Criminal Capers Collection HerePreorder Trailblazers HereCheck out the Zoo Vadis Weekly Reveals HereSubscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter Here2022-10-2614 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of 8 Knizia Games - Quest for El Dorado: Dangers & Muisca, Gang of Dice, No Mercy, and more!It's an all Knizia episode! Nick shares his 1st impressions of 8 Reiner Knizia board games:1:06 - No Mercy3:51 - Gang of Dice7:37 - Treasures of Nakbe13:42 - Great Wall of China16:51 - Heckmeck am Karteneck22:26 - Aristocracy27:32 - Marshmallow Test31:02 - The Quest for El Dorado: Dangers & MuiscaSpeaking of Reiner Knizia, be sure to subscribe to the Bitewing Games newsletter where we'll keep you up-to-date on our upcoming project: Zoo Vadis by Reiner Knizia.2022-10-1039 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of San Francisco, Cat in the Box, Catherine: The Cities of the Tsarina, and more!Nick shares his first impressions of 8 new-to-him board games:0:53 - San Francisco8:08 - Cat in the Box: Deluxe Edition11:47 - Lost Cities: Roll & Write16:20 - The Golden Ages18:40 - Coloretto20:37 - Poison24:55 - Catherine: The Cities of the Tsarina28:58 - Municipium🚨There is only one week remaining before the close of the Trailblazers Kickstarter! Support Bitewing Games and secure a copy of Trailblazers for yourself before it's too late. 🙌Visit the Trailblazers Kickstarter page here.2022-09-0636 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 50 Board Games of All Time — 2022 Edition—Games 25-1Continuing on from last week's episode, Nick shares his Top 25 board games of all time! He also shares where Bitewing Games' revealed publications would fit into his Top 100.Trailblazers is now live on Kickstarter, and it has already raised over $100k! Click here to check it out and support Bitewing Games.2022-08-2224 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 50 Games of All Time—2022 Edition—Games 50-26Buckle up! Nick shares and discusses his updated Top 50 board games of all time list, beginning with games 50-26. Trailblazers launches on Kickstarter this week (Tuesday, August 16). Check it out here.2022-08-1428 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Savannah Park, An Empty Throne, Azul: Queen's Garden, Super Skill Pinball: Ramp it Up, and more!1:20 - Out with the ratings, in the with prognosisNick shares his first impressions of the following games:5:22 - Indigo8:02 - Savannah Park10:08 - Railroad Revolution14:29 - Spectaculum19:46 - Super Skill Pinball: Ramp it Up22:26 - Rumble Nation25:47 - Azul: Queen's Garden28:39 - An Empty ThroneOur next publication, Trailblazers, launches on Kickstarter next week. Check out the pre-launch page and follow along.2022-08-0734 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 10 Negotiation Games + 🚨A Bitewing Games Publication Reveal!🚨Nick shares his Top 10 Negotiation Board Games before revealing the next thrilling publications coming from Bitewing Games!0:39 - Top 10 Negotiation Games16:03 - Honorable Mentions20:21 - Our Upcoming Negotiation Publications Revealed!Read this episode in Blog Post formLink to Zoo Vadis (and the epic box art)Link to Gussy GorillasSubscribe to the Bitewing Games Newsletter2022-08-0127 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Wonderland's War, The Great Zimbabwe, Longboard, Green Team Wins, Switch & Signal, & more!In this episode of candid cardboard, Nick shares his 1st impressions of new-to-him games:0:43 - The Great Zimbabwe5:00 - Switch & Signal10:54 - Longboard14:45 - Carpe Diem17:24 - Sumatra23:00 - Green Team Wins24:53 - Wonderland's War28:10 - Beowulf: The Legend2022-07-1734 min
Bitewing Games PodcastMost Anticipated Games of 2022 - Part 2After 6 months of publisher announcements and upcoming game research, Nick shares even more of his most anticipated games of the year—15 games in 15 minutes!Check out our Trailblazers Kickstarter Pre-Launch Page and click to be notified the moment it launches. Thanks for your support!2022-06-2015 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Sound Box, Ultimate Railroads, Into the Blue, Faiyum, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of hot new games and stone-cold classics including:0:56 - Into the Blue6:47 - Ultimate Railroads / Russian Railroads9:23 - Kingdom Builder13:00 - Santiago17:22 - Sound Box25:30 - Faiyum28:25 - Lord of the Rings: The Confrontation2022-06-0137 min
Bitewing Games PodcastRa Preview - Should You Back the New Version?After receiving and playing a preview copy, Nick shares his full thoughts on the latest version of Ra by designer Reiner Knizia, artist Ian O'Toole, and publisher 25th Century Games.Crowdfunding for Ra is still ongoing until May 25th. You can find the Gamefound page here. Preview copy provided to Bitewing Games by 25th Century Games.Bitewing Games is planning to cover even more exciting releases from publishers including upcoming Knizia games and beyond. We are also collaborating with Reiner on several publishing projects of our own...2022-05-1616 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Foundations of Rome, Meadow, Long Shot: The Dice Game, Iberian Gauge, and more!Nick shares his 1st impressions of recently released and classic board games including the following:1:15 - Foundations of Rome6:00 - Excape / Rapido8:35 - The Voyages of Marco Polo11:26 - Meadow15:11 - Iberian Gauge19:54 - Rheinlander23:28 - Mombasa31:18 - Long Shot: The Dice Game2022-05-0935 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Libertalia: Winds of Galecrest, Bear Raid, Factory Funner, Ghosts of Christmas, Art Robbery, & More!Another month means another opportunity to get candid with cardboard! Nick shares his 1st impressions of the following board games:0:53 - Art Robbery5:25 - Twice As Clever7:19 - Orongo10:58 - Bear Raid15:38 - Ghosts of Christmas20:18 - Factory Funner25:46 - Pickomino Deluxe (Heckmeck Deluxe)29:28 - Libertalia: Winds of Galecrest2022-04-1136 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 15 Games of 2021Nick shares his Top 15 Board Games of 2021! This list is a celebration of excellence in game design, illustration, and publishing. The board games that made the Top 15 earned their place by bringing innovation, excellence, and (most importantly) enjoyment to our table and the industry. 2021 was a killer year for tabletop gaming; let’s explore 15 reasons why…2022-03-2823 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Ark Nova, Caesar, So Clover, Merv, Sheepy Time, & More!In another round of Candid Cardboard, Nick shares his first impressions of the following board games:0:43 - Caesar!: Seize Rome in 20 Minutes!6:33 - Kemet: Blood & Sand — Book of the Dead Expansion10:29 - So Clover12:35 - Family Inc.14:45 - Coloma19:27 - Sheepy Time22:20 - Merv: The Heart of the Silk Road25:44 - Ark NovaSubscribe to the Bitewing Games NewsletterCheck out our upcoming game, Trailblazers2022-03-1430 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 10 Quick & Easy Solo Games + Play Trailblazers Epic Solo Mode TODAYSolo gaming is perhaps one of the biggest recent trends in the board and card game industry. As Bitewing Games will soon be publishing a quick & easy solo game of our own—Trailblazers by Ryan Courtney (which also plays up to 8 players)—now felt like the right time to investigate, assemble, and share our Top 10 Quick & Easy solo games. At the end of this list, Nick will also be sharing more info about the Epic Solo Mode that Ryan has developed for Trailblazers.Subscribe to the Bitewing Games newsletter here.Play Trailblazers: Epic Solo M...2022-02-2814 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Mille Fiori, Merchants of the Dark Road, Brian Boru, The Crew: Mission Deep Sea, & More!Nick shares his 1st impressions of the following board games:1:00 - Mille Fiori (with comparisons to Witchstone)7:20 - Pipeline: Emerging Markets8:48 - Furnace12:16 - Merchants of the Dark Road15:37 - The Crew: Mission Deep Sea17:10 - L.A.M.A. Dice19:39 - Llamas Unleashed23:43 - Brian Boru: High King of Ireland2022-02-1430 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 10 Spin-off Board Games + More Details on TrailblazersMovies, tv shows, books, and video games are famous for having spin-offs, but what about board games? Nick shares his top 10 spin-off board games plus more details on the upcoming Trailblazers from Bitewing Games and Ryan Courtney.2022-02-0117 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Scout, Imperial Steam, Ankh: Gods of Egypt, MicroMacro: Crime City, Keyflower, and RialtoNick shares his first impressions of the following board games:0:53 - Scout5:08 - Imperial Steam9:39 - Keyflower13:16 - Ankh: Gods of Egypt18:40 - Rialto21:06 - MicroMacro: Crime City2022-01-0227 minBitewing Games Podcast2021 Year in Review (ft. Camille)In today’s episode, we’re going to sit back and look back on our board gaming experiences of 2021. Nick is joined once again by Camille as they chat about their year in review including highlights, low points, most played games, and other Bitewing Games adventures...2021-12-2048 min
Bitewing Games PodcastTop 10 Spatial Puzzle Games + A Bitewing Games Publication Reveal!In our longest, meatiest episode yet, Nick is joined by friend and fellow gamer, Ryan Flaherty, where they share and discuss their Top 10 Spatial Puzzle Games. At the end of the episode, Nick reveals the next title coming from Bitewing Games and some juicy details about this game!0:45 - About Ryan—his gaming tastes and preferences7:30 - Ecos9:42 - Introducing the topic—Our Top 10 Spatial Puzzle Games13:50 - The Estates17:07 - Patchwork / New York Zoo20:47 - Tiny Towns24:27...2021-12-061h 53
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Siege of Runedar, Radlands, Mind MGMT, Anno 1800, Stockpile: Epic Edition, & QuantumNick shares his 1st impressions of spicy hot new releases and new-to-him games...0:55 - Radlands9:17 - Anno 180013:12 - Stockpile: Epic Edition16:55 - Mind MGMT20:58 - Quantum26:04 - The Siege of Runedar2021-11-2240 min
Bitewing Games PodcastRevisiting the Best Board Games of 2020Nick revisits the best board games of 2020 by categorizing 60 of them into lovers, keepers, dumpers, flingers, and seekers.1:56 - Lovers8:08 - Keepers12:55 - Dumpers17:20 - Flingers27:10 - Seekers2021-11-1532 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Witchstone, Riftforce, Rorschach, Regicide, Fort expansion, & CalimalaNick shares his first impressions of the following new-ish board games:0:43 - Rorschach6:00 - Regicide11:12 - Fort: Cats & Dogs Expansion14:17 - Calimala18:36 - Witchstone23:17 - Riftforce2021-10-3130 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Hibachi, Nusfjord, L.L.A.M.A., Treasure Island Expansion, and 5 classic games.Nick shares his first impressions of 4 new(ish) games and 5 classic games:1:00 - Treasure Island Expansion: Captain Silver—Revenge Island5:39 - L.L.A.M.A.8:52 - Hibachi14:34 - Nusfjord19:10 - Wildlife Safari20:11 - Libertalia21:09 - Blue Moon Legends22:28 - Bohnanza24:03 - Tower of Babel2021-10-0427 min
Bitewing Games PodcastRecent Plays Chat: Cascadia, Winner's Circle, Parade, My City, Spyrium, Lost LegacyKyle joins Nick to discuss games they've been playing recently:Lost Legacy - 4:08 Winner's Circle - 10:47Cascadia - 18:33Spyrium - 27;14My City - 34:37Parade - 42:39Subscribe to the Bitewing Games newsletter to follow our latest content and upcoming publications.2021-09-1951 min
Bitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Kabuto Sumo, Coffee Traders, Summoner Wars (2e), Tajuto, & Ra: The Dice GameNick is back with another episode of podcast comfort food in September's Candid Cardboard: 1st Impressions of new (and sometimes not new) board games.0:49 - Summer Wars (Second Edition)3:46 - Ra: The Dice Game4:57 - Tajuto6:54 - Coffee Traders11:45 - Kabuto Sumo2021-09-0617 minBitewing Games PodcastWhat's Next for Bitewing Games?With our Kickstarter campaign closing this Thursday, September 2, Nick takes a look at the future of Bitewing Games including plans for the podcast, blog, publications, and beyond.Like all the content that Bitewing Games has provided over the past year and a half? Then support us in our Kickstarter campaign so we can keep putting out more juicy content and you can acquire some killer games. Consider this our form of Patreon ;)2021-08-3007 min
Bitewing Games PodcastPaul Halkyon Interview (Artist of the Criminal Capers Collection)Nick is joined by artist and graphic designer, Paul Halkyon, to discuss the world, lore, and visual design behind Soda Smugglers, Pumafiosi, and Hot Lead.Link to the Criminal Capers Collection on KickstarterLink to Paul Halkyon's instagram pageSend us your questions for a Bitewing Games Q&A podcast episode! Follow this link to submit your questions or email nick@bitewinggames.comIntro to Paul Halkyon - 0:53How Paul got into art and graphic design - 4:21How Paul and Nick met (screen printing apparel) - 11:40Designing the world behind t...2021-08-2256 min
Bitewing Games PodcastReiner Knizia Interview — Criminal Capers Collection, Deck-Building Games, and more!Nick is joined by internationally acclaimed designer Reiner Knizia for an epic interview exploring an entire spectrum of board game topics! This is one episode you don't want to miss...Link to the Kickstarter campaign for Reiner Knizia's Criminal Capers CollectionIntro to Dr. Reiner Knizia - 1:49Inspiration behind Soda Smugglers, Pumafiosi, & Hot Lead - 2:50Reiner's favorite animal - 10:08Designing different genres of games - 12:08Deck-builders & The Quest for El Dorado - 15:47The Siege of Runedar - 19:33Reiner's future with legacy games; a sequel to My City2021-08-1559 minBitewing Games PodcastTop 15 Board Game ArtistsIn this episode, we'll feast our mind's eye on some of the best board game artists in the industry. Nick shares his 15 favorite artists including his favorite art and favorite games of theirs. Stick around at the end of the episode for a preview of the podcast schedule for August, where we'll be kicking off our Kickstarter launch with some major insights and interviews!If you'd like to see some of the art and games from the artists mentioned in this episode, then click here to read the blog post version of today's episode.2021-07-2623 minBitewing Games PodcastA Board Gamer's OdysseyCall it a Board Gamer’s Odyssey, Autobiography, History, or whatever you please, but today we’ll be exploring many of the games and moments that made Nick into the designer, publisher, and gamer that he is today. What games were his favorites at certain times in his life, and why? Are they still among my favorites, or have they fallen out of favor? How have his preferences changed over time? Let’s do the Odyssey!2021-07-1927 minBitewing Games PodcastTop Auctioning GamesIn celebration of our own auctioning games launching on Kickstarter next month that are designed by the master Auctioneer himself, Reiner Knizia, Nick thought it fitting to explore the many games which have fostered his love for this genre. The notable titles in this episode are huge reasons why we love auctioning game Hot Lead and quasi-auctioning game Pumafiosi enough to publish them ourselves.Rather than rank these bidding games in order from Nick's most to least favorite, he decided it would be more fun to award his favorites by category and type. Hopefully these categories help yo...2021-07-1217 minBitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Oath, Kemet: Blood & Sand, Equinox, & more!Nick's latest first impressions of new board game releases span from ambitious epics to Knizian comebacks... Let's jump right into it!0:42 - Equinox4:18 - Stellar7:00 - Kemet: Blood & Sand11:38 - Tutankhamun18:02 - Oath: Chronicles of Empire & Exile2021-07-0523 minBitewing Games PodcastRoll & WritesIn this episode, Kyle joins Nick to chat all about roll & write board games! What’s the deal with this genre? Which roll & writes are the very best? Are they going out of style or just getting started? Let’s find out!2021-06-2149 minBitewing Games PodcastTop 10 Filler GamesFiller games are essential to filling in the cracks and crevices of one’s board game collection, and so Nick has set out to determine the top 10 best recommendations for filler games. While there are far more than 10 fantastic options to choose from, this list will serve as our most reliable team of fillers for anyone and everyone.Speaking of fantastic fillers, check out the newly reveal box art for Reiner Knizia's Criminal Capers Collection!2021-06-1413 minBitewing Games Podcast1st Impressions of Nidavellir, Whale Riders, Royal Visit, Yellow & Yangtze, and more.Nick is coming to find that being a Reiner Knizia fan is much like being a fan of eating. You're constantly hungry for more, and there's always new & exciting flavors to explore. Today we'll sandwich Nidavellir between these hunks of Reiner bread as Nick shares his first impressions of the following:0:56 - Whale Riders (the board game)4:35 - Whale Riders: The Card Game7:44 - Modern Art Card Game10:12 - Nidavellir13:09 - Royal Visit16:08 - Yellow & Yangtze2021-06-0621 minBitewing Games PodcastLessons Learned About Kickstarter Bundles + Big Reiner Knizia News!Nick shares his insights and observations on Kickstarter board game bundles as Bitewing Games prepares their own bundle. This episode will be particularly engaging for those who are interested or involved in the creation of board games (publishing, designing, etc.), so if you'd rather just skip to the big Reiner Knizia news then feel free to jump to 13:16 in the episode!2021-05-3117 minBitewing Games PodcastTop 10 Games to Play with your Significant OtherNick is joined by his lovely wife, Camille, as they discuss their top 10 board games to play together. Whether you have a SO, a friend, or a stranger willing to play a 2-player game with you, we think you'll find some killer suggestions within this discussion.1:29 - Meet Camille5:57 - About this list7:53 - Cami's 1st pick11:29 - Nick's Best Huge Sprawling Game16:29 - Cami's favorite no brain required game & Nick's Most Prized Possession20:46 - Nick's Best Cooperative Game23:43 - Cami's next polyomino pick25:08 - Nick's Most Addictive Game28:48...2021-05-241h 10Bitewing Games Podcast10 Reasons Why Tabletop Gaming is the Best HobbyIt's time for us to come clean and face the truth.... the best hobby is, in fact, tabletop gaming. Nick shares 10 reasons why! 2021-05-1710 minBitewing Games PodcastFinding Games and Gamers to Game WithIn this podcast exclusive episode, Nick and Kyle are joined by a fellow dentist and gamer, Jacob Gowans, as they discuss the in’s and out’s of collections and gaming groups. Whether you are looking to add to your collection, cull your collection, make new gaming friends, or convert your friends into gamers, we’ve got you covered! At the end, we also share some recent and upcoming games we are currently excited about. And if you listen closely, you might even sneak away with some free dental advice. Cavities beware!1:04 - Meet our guest...2021-04-111h 05Bitewing Games PodcastCandid Cardboard: New Release 1st Impressions (April 2021)Watch out, this latest batch of board game first impressions might give you a bit of whiplash!Nick shares his thoughts on the following recent(ish) releases:0:53 - CloudAge6:10 - Maracaibo6:59 - The Shores of Tripoli13:59 - Age of Steam: Deluxe Edition15:52 - Lost Ruins of Arnak16:44 - Sleeping Gods19:50 - A War of WhispersYou can also read this episode at our Bitewing Games Blog.Don't miss out on exciting updates regarding our upcoming bundle of three 20-minutes games! Subscribe to the m...2021-04-0423 minBitewing Games PodcastBoard Game Birthday Marathon Musings10 Games, 2 Saturdays, 1 Mission: Play until our brains are fried. Nick shares his experiences and impressions of these 10 games hand-picked for maximum entertainment and played over the course of two gaming marathons.1:10 - Beyond the Sun2:05 - Stephenson's Rocket + Eastern US Expansion Map3:34 - Lords of Vegas4:44 - Hansa Teutonica Big Box5:37 - Bristol 13506:55 - Social Grooming9:00 - Galaxy Trucker10:39 - Brass Birmingham12:04 - Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy15:26 - Soda SmugglersTo follow the above mentioned Social Grooming and Soda Smugglers a...2021-03-2918 minBitewing Games PodcastCandid Cardboard: New Release 1st Impressions (March 2021)This latest batch of board game impressions has been a mixed bag at our table... Nick shares his 1st impressions of the following:0:46 - Dice Throne Adventures & Dice Throne Season 1 ReRolled5:42 - Renature8:15 - Under Falling Skies10:21 - Hadara11:39 - Schotten Totten 214:26 - Loot of LimaYou can also read this episode in blog form here:https://bitewinggames.com/candid-cardboard:-new-release-1st-impressions-(march-2021)2021-03-0719 minBitewing Games PodcastTop 10 Family GamesKyle joins the podcast again as we share and discuss our Top 10 Family Games! With Nick having a million cousins and Kyle doing nearly all his gaming with siblings, parents, and his spouse, we've put plenty of titles to the test with our "non-gamer" family members.Find out which board games are guaranteed to please at your next family gathering!1:10 - What do we mean by "Family Games?" 4:12 - Blokus5:18 - Camel Up (Second Edition)8:00 - Bohnanza10:05 - Chinatown13:18 - The Mind15:15 - For Sale18:03 - The Crew: T...2021-02-1455 minBitewing Games PodcastCandid Cardboard: New Release 1st Impressions (Feb 2021)The hot new releases of 2020 continue to make it to our table! Nick shares his latest 1st impressions of Iwari, Dune: Imperium, Rajas of the Ganges: The Dice Charmers, Rococo Deluxe, and Beyond the Sun.0:50 - Rajas of the Ganges: The Dice Charmers3:34 - Iwari4:55 - Rococo Deluxe Edition8:10 - Dune: Imperium11:16 - Beyond the SunYou can also read this episode in blog post form here: https://bitewinggames.com/candid-cardboard:-new-release-1st-impressions-(february-2021)2021-01-3115 minBitewing Games PodcastCandid Cardboard: New Release 1st Impressions (January 2021)Candid Cardboard is a monthly series containing genuine, blunt, and thoughtful opinions about board games that the folks at Bitewing Games have recently played! Most often, these are first impressions of hot new releases.In this episode, Nick shares his first impressions of recent releases including Sidereal Confluence (Remastered Edition), Sequoia, GPS, Mountain Goats, Eclipse: Second Dawn for the Galaxy, and Babylonia!1:02 - Sidereal Confluence (Remastered Edition)3:23 - Sequoia4:31 - GPS6:00 - Mountain Goats7:00 - Eclipse: Second Dawn f...2021-01-1112 minBitewing Games PodcastOur Hot 10! Plus what is Bitewing Games, anyway? What are our plans?Kyle joins Nick in sharing our 10 hot things we are currently most excited about in the board game industry. These hot things span through specific board games, talented game designers, engaging mechanisms, and more! Additionally, we share the origins and purpose of Bitewing Games and peek behind the curtains of exciting plans to come! This episode does not exist in blog form, but if you prefer to read then you can learn plenty more about Bitewing Games and things we are hot on at BitewingGames.com2021-01-031h 06Peak Paddle Performance PodcastPPP Episode 32: SURFSKI on the Great Lakes with Nick MurrayIn this podcast, the tables are turned and I’m in the hot seat as Buzz Burrell (a long time endurance sports athlete and entrepreneur and new surfski addict) interviews me. We cover a wide range of topics from paddling the Great Lakes through the winter months, to trying to make a surfski business viable in a small market with a short season. Some of the highlights of our conversation include:
Paddling conditions on the Great Lakes
Risks with winter paddling and how I try to mitigate them
What I’ve gained from paddling a V8 for 6 months of t...2019-05-171h 07Peak Paddle Performance PodcastPPP Episode 25: Getting Amped for The Gorge Downwind Festival 2018 With Carter JohnsonIn this podcast episode I catch up with Carter Johnson, Race Director for the Gorge Downwind Festival. In just four years this race has become the single biggest downwind event in the world. With 750 participants, featuring equal numbers of Outrigger Canoe and Surfski paddlers, plus a good contingent of Stand Up Paddle Boarders. But more than just a race, this has become a week long festival celebrating paddling, downwind, beer, Rivers for Change, and loads of camaraderie.
In this episode Carter provides some interesting insights into how the race has evolved and what to expect for 2018. We touch on...2018-06-2838 min