Positively Board Gaming

Classic Card Games and Huddle

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0000

In episode 57 of Positively Board gaming, Mitchell and Jamey talk about their favorite card games, and Mitchell shares some of the things he loves about Huddle, the fantasy football board game.

Do you have a favorite card game that you'd like to share...or have you also tried Huddle? Let us know with a comment!!

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New on Mitchell's Shelf & Hilarious Games

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 07:52:00 -0000

(This episode was re-uploaded on April 19th to fix a technical error)

On episode 56 of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell and Jamey talk about new games on Mitchell's shelf and games that keep them laughing. Do you have a new game that you're looking forward to, or a game that always brings laughter to the table? Let us know with a comment!!

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Movies and TV Shows Based on Games, & Crowdfunding

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0000

On episode 55 of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey and Mitchell talk about TV shows and Movies that are based on games, and what crowdfunded games they are looking forward to receiving. Do you have a favorite game that was made into a movie or television show...or a game that you pledged through crowdfunding that you're looking forward to playing? Let us know with a comment!!

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A Modern Game of Life and Stonemaier April Fools

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 22:14:00 -0000

On episode 54 of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey and Mitchell talk about what a modern version of The Game of Life might look like, and what Stonemaier has in store for us this year on April Fools day.

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Binge-Worthy Games, and Fringe the Board Game

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0000

In episode 53 of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell and Jamey talk about board games that they love to binge, and what a game based on the television series Fringe might look like. Do you have a game that you love playing over and over again, or a favorite TV show or movie that you'd like to see made into a board game? Let us know with a comment below!!

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Our Top 3 Mining Games, and Games We Wish We Were Better At

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0000

In Episode 52 of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey and Mitchell talk about their favorite mining games, and games they wish they were better at. Do you have a favorite mining game or a game you want to get better at playing? Let us know with a comment!

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Delayed Gratification and What is it About Custom Dice?

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0000

On episode 51 of Positively Board gaming, Jamey and Mitchell talk about games that have a delayed gratification mechanism, and what they love about custom dice.

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Mitchell's Top 5 Games & Stuff We Love

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:35:00 -0000

In episode 50 of Positively Board gaming, Mitchell and Jamey talk about Mitchell's top five board games, and stuff that they love...including music, television shows and films.

Thanks to everyone who helped us get to 50 episodes...and if you have a subject that you'd like us to discuss, let us know with a comment!!

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Mitchell's Top 10 (Part 1) and America's Birds

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0000

On episode 49 of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell Shares the first half of his current top 10 games, and Jamey will find Mitchell's spirit Animal from the recently-released Wingspan America's Expansion.

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Olympics, Valentine's, Pigs and Plagues

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0000

In episode 48 of the Positively Board Gaming Podcast, Mitchell and Jamey talk about the Olympics, Valentine's Day, and games they've never talked about before on the show. Do you have a favorite game that you like to play on Valentine's Day? Let us know with a comment!

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Positive Player Interaction and Huddle the Fantasy Football Game

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0000

On episode 47 of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell and Jamey talk about positive player interactions, and Huddle, the fantasy football board game. Do you have a game with positive player interactions that you'd like to talk about...or a game with an unusual theme that you never thought could be made into a board game? Let us know with a comment!!

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Games On Our Minds and Card Rivers

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 21:54:00 -0000

On Episode 46 of the Positively Board gaming Podcast, Jamey goes solo and talks about games that have been on our minds and card rivers.

If you have a game that's been on your mind lately, or want to share your favorite game with a card river, let us know with a comment below!

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Lord of the Rings Games and Games We Never Knew We'd Love

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0000

In episode 45 of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey talks

about his favorite Lord of the Rings games, and Mitchell discusses game-types he was pleasantly surprised by.

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Geekway Mini and Escapism with Board Games

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0000

Welcome to episode 44 of the Positively Board Gaming Podcast! In this episode, Jamey talks about his experience at Geekway Mini in St. Louis, while Mitchell discusses how we can use board games as a positive way of escaping from the real world. If you enjoy what you hear, please feel free to subscribe to the podcast and leave us a comment.

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Accessible House Rules & 3D Printing

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 01:33:00 -0000

In this episode of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey discusses minor house rules that make games more accessible, and Mitchell talks about his newfound love of 3D printing. Welcome to Positively Board Gaming episode 43!

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In-Game Occupations and New Expansions for Older games

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 18:06:00 -0000

In episode 42 of Positively Board gaming, Jamey and Mitchell explore their favorite occupations when playing games, and talk about the newest expansions for Stonemaier's oldest games.

Do you have a favorite in-game occupation? Is there an older game that you would like to see a new expansion for? Let us know with a comment!!

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Meaningful Creations and Play

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0000

Happy New Year! In this episode of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey and Mitchell talk about the meaningful experiences that they are looking forward to in 2026, and New Year's resolutions for board gamers...

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Ask Us Anything! Positively Board Gaming Live...

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 13:00:00 -0000

On this 40th episode of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey and Mitchell take the show live and answer all of your questions...from holiday gaming and treats, to what you, the listeners, are looking forward to this holiday season. We hope you've enjoyed spending the last 40 weeks with us, and we're excited for what's to come; so make sure you subscribe...and leave us a comment if there's something that you'd like us to talk about!

Happy Holidays, from all of us at Positively Board gaming:-)

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Epic Food, Gaming Love Languages, and Games We're Itching to Play

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 13:00:00 -0000

Board games to play next, from Sushi Go Party to Gloomhaven Second Edition. Mitchell and Jamey swap “can’t-wait-to-play” picks, plus a smart take on game gifting and love languages.

00:00 – Welcome to Episode 39

01:12 – Live show timing talk

03:14 – Treat of the day, recovery, comfort food

13:44 – Mitchell’s “games I’m excited to play” list begins

15:10 – Sushi Go, Sushi Go Party, Sushi Roll

16:04 – Star Wars deck-building, Mandalorian add-on

16:25 – Invincible: The Card Game and Astro Knights system

17:13 – Mistwind and the flying whales hook

19:36 – Malia: Lands of Legends and time-of-day choices

22:21 – Trading in Gloomhaven for Second Edition

22:42 – Rove

23:57 – Jamie’s picks: Holiday Hills and Emberleaf

25:04 – Board game gift giving and love languages

40:01 – Wrap and goodbye

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Pax Unplugged & Things to Be Thankful For in 2025

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 13:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell and Jamey talk about Pax Unplugged, and things to be grateful for in 2025. Is there something or someone you're grateful for in the board gaming world? Were you able to attend Pax Unplugged this year? Let us know with a comment!!

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"New to Us" Games...and What Bird Am I?

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell and Jamey talk about "new to them" games that they've played in the past week, and Jamey tells Mitchell what bird he is (once you listen, it will make sense!).

Enjoying the podcast? Make sure you subscribe and leave us a comment!

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Conventions and Gaming with Kids

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 16:04:00 -0000

This episode breaks down the joy of board game conventions, why playing with designers changes everything, and how to choose games that work for kids. Mitchell and Jamey compare road trips, share new Trader Joe’s finds, and talk through the magic of discovering games that are new to you, even if they have been out for years.

Chapters

00:00 – Banter and opening

00:56 – Why Jamey drove instead of flying

01:48 – Deer on highways and rural driving risks

03:56 – Tension and fatigue from long drives

05:09 – Family visit and birthday celebration

06:01 – Gelati Salt and Trader Joe’s stop

06:16 – PB&C crispy sticks

07:19 – Peanut butter crispy rice bites

07:35 – Pumpkin sandwich cookies

08:40 – How Trader Joe’s trains staff

11:02 – Dragon Dice and dice bag envy

12:58 – Why PAX Unplugged matters

13:40 – Joy of board game conventions

16:26 – Jamey’s three convention tiers

17:29 – Instant validation from strangers at conventions

17:57 – Discovering older games for the first time

19:44 – Playing with designers

22:54 – Jamey’s favorite part of Geekway

24:30 – Hotel stories

25:09 – Patchwork with Jamie’s nephew

27:09 – How That’s Not a Hat works

28:50 – Bonanza for large groups

29:09 – Sushi Roll as a hit for mixed ages

30:03 – What works for kids

31:23 – Things in Rings as an option

33:55 – Peanut butter M&M reward

35:29 – Listener questions and sign-off

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Stuff We Love

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0000

In this relaxed “Stuff We Love” episode of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell Whitfield and Jamey Stegmaier share current favorite board games, an epic disc golf disaster, quick-hit video games you can play in short bursts, snack obsessions, and the TV shows that are eating their free time.

Chapters

0:00 – Stuff We Love intro, puppy brain, and hearing loss with humor

04:41 – Jamey's comically bad disc golf round and managing expectations

12:07 – Pococo overview and why this trick-taking twist works

14:34 – Origin Story, The Gang, Spots, and the Farkle to Dragon Farkle plan

18:01 – Skull King expansion, new cards, and a softer way to add content

20:19 – Ten, Fire Tower, and heading to PAX Unplugged

22:29 – Dredge, the eerie fishing game with “one more day” loops

24:53 – Fast-session games: Diablo, Clash Royale, and mobile-friendly play

25:54 – Brookside dark chocolate berries and snack talk begins

27:35 – Trader Joe’s treats, everything bagel crackers, and cheese picks

30:50 – More Trader Joe’s favorites and listener snack requests

30:50 – Yellowjackets, Lost-style storytelling, and creepy first scenes

35:02 – Supernatural obsession, long-running shows, and Grey’s Anatomy

38:34 – Listener prompts and how to share your own bad day and favorites

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Positive Player Interactions and Helpful Reviews

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey and Mitchell discuss positive player interactions and how they can make games more enjoyable; they also take some time to talk about what they look for in board game reviews and what's helpful to them.

Enjoying the show? Make sure to subscribe and leave us a comment!

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House Rules

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0000

Board game house rules, player experience, and positive community etiquette—Jamey and Mitchell share smart, real-table examples from Zombicide, Lords of Waterdeep, and Red Rising, plus listener interaction, Essen/Spiel shout-outs, and a joy-filled “treats of the day” segment.

Chapters

00:00 – Cold open, numbering debate and welcome

01:31 – “Treat of the day” setup

01:38 – Mitchell: LEGO Nintendo Game Boy nostalgia and build with his son

04:37 – Jamey: The Cup (St. Louis) and a mission about meaningful moments

07:32 – Essen/Spiel shout-outs and behind-the-scenes setup videos

10:51 – What’s arriving: Tend (Ivy Studios), Dice Throne: Outcasts, Malia: Land of Legends

14:38 – How the show flows (treats, “before we start,” surprise topics)

17:22 – Defining house rules: fixes vs. preference tweaks

19:29 – Examples: Zombicide deck order; removing certain cards in group play

23:26 – Designer lens: “fun first,” rules have reasons, test before you tell

26:07 – Sharing tweaks kindly so people can actually hear you

31:18 – Call for listener house rules + ways to comment

32:11 – Wrap-up and sign-off

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Collectible Card Games and 7 Games with Quirky Themes

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Board games with unusual themes, Magic: The Gathering drafting, and why “positive” doesn’t mean sugar-coated reviews—this episode explores unique design hooks (Viticulture, Sagrada, The Bloody Inn, Root, Last Will, So You’ve Been Eaten), CCG temptations (including TMNT for MTG), and the joy of hobby rituals.

Enjoy this one? Share your favorite unusually themed game or clever mechanic in the comments, and tell us how you keep CCGs fun without overspending.

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Design Day and Leaving Your Comfort Zone

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Stonemaier Games Design Day, playtesting insights, and why stepping outside your comfort zone can rekindle your love of tabletop games. Mitchell and Jamey swap stories about gaming tables, Space Base strategies, and the joy of trying new approaches.

Like, comment, and subscribe to support thoughtful conversations about tabletop design and play. Tell us in the comments: when did you last try a totally different strategy or genre, and what did it teach you?

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3 Old, 3 New: 6 Games We Love

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Episode 30 celebrates joyful life updates, Stonemaier’s community-driven Design Day, and a rapid back-and-forth on “old vs. new” tabletop standouts—from hidden-role and drafting classics to fresh co-op poker and a superhero trick-taking design.

Mitchell and Jamey kick off with personal milestones and why sharing “the good stuff” matters. They touch on weekly-release TV culture (Survivor, Tulsa King) before a practical audio tip: even in-studio, headphones help you hear what the audience hears—isolated, accurate monitoring that guides mic technique and levels.

The show’s core is a playful volley between Jamey’s oldest modern games that still earn table time and Mitchell’s recent plays. Jamie spotlights Avalon (The Resistance)—a fast, social deduction staple for large groups—then Hanabi’s limited-communication puzzle where you can’t see your own hand, and the pocket-size, original Sushi Go for approachable drafting and set collection.

Mitchell counters with three “new to him” hits: The Gang, an unexpectedly addictive cooperative poker experience where honest signaling and tempo replace bluffing; Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle-earth, a smooth, two-player reimagining with multiple win paths and escalating engine building; and Origin Story, a small-box hero/villain trick-taking game with tableau powers and stamina tokens that make each round’s choice meaningful and replayable.

Along the way, Jamey discusses culling shelves ahead of Stonemaier’s Design Day to keep the library fresh and community-ready, while Mitchell underscores why elegant rules that scale table talk—and create post-game stories—are what make games stick.

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Partnership & Hosting your First Game Night

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Hosting your first game night can be simple and fun. In this episode, we share practical tips for hosting your first game night, plus a lively chat about partnership games.

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Origin Story & Thematic Lures

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

On this Episode of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell and Jamey talk about the latest Stonemaier Games release, Origin Story, and how to bring new gamers into the hobby by matching game themes to the things they already love.

If you enjoyed this chat, like the video and drop a comment with the card or tableau games you use to hook new players; and don't forget to subscribe for more positive board-gaming conversations!

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Stuff We Love Right Now

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Episode 27 of Positively Board Gaming dives into hobbies, sports, and what brings us joy outside of the board game hobby. Mitchell Whitfield and Jamey Stegmaier swap stories about retro gaming, RC crawlers, YouTube creators, and even sumo wrestling, before talking sports, fandom, and the excitement of hockey’s return.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe to Positively Board Gaming on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform. Drop a comment with your favorite hobby or team—we’d love to hear from you!

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Big Group Games and 5 Games that Surprised Us

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0000

A 34-person game retreat, a human-sized round of Codenames, and a marble “Kentucky Derby” set the stage for a conversation about games that surprise us—in the best ways. Jamey recaps three creative big-group “room party” games, while Mitchell shares five titles that defied expectations:Shifting Stones, Number Drop, QE, Fantasy Realms, and One Deck Dungeon. Plus: light banter, a concert detour, family game night picks, and a handy Just One table tip.

00:00 Cold open, smiles you can “hear”
00:xx Show format & quick banter (concert, high-school fame)
00:xx Family game night picks & Just One tip
00:xx Room-party #1: Stardew fishing → communal punch
00:xx Room-party #2: Human Codenames
00:xx Room-party #3: Marble “Derby” racing
00:xx Mitchell’s list: 5 games that surprised him
00:xx Design chat: why QE and Fantasy Realms feel “magical”
00:xx One Deck Dungeon → design inspiration
00:xx Listener questions & wrap

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Curating and Culling a Game collection

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0000

How do you curate or cull a board game collection? Jamey Stegmaier and Mitchell Whitfield share positive, practical strategies for culling shelves, setting limits, and deciding what truly earns a place—plus thoughts on campaign games, “worlds on your shelf,” and Stonemaier reveals.

Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe, leave a rating, and tell us how you curate your collection. Which criteria matter most to you—and which titles are untouchable?

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Top 5 Games of the Summer and Two Truths & a Lie.

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Positively Board Gaming with Jamie Stegmaier and Mitchell Whitfield digs into summer standouts—Vantage, Saltfjord, Panda Spin, Zenith on Board Game Arena, and Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle-earth—plus honest talk about analysis paralysis, table patience, and why sleep matters for gamers.

Jamie’s “Games of Summer” list anchors favorite memories to specific plays:

• Saltfjord tied to his Norwegian cruise—a perfect place-and-theme match.

• Panda Spin as a surprise card-shedding gem with gorgeous foil flip sides that power up.

• Zenith on Board Game Arena as a tug-of-war design that stuck with him after virtual game night.

• Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle-earth as a partner favorite that keeps delivering.

• Vantage as the season’s highlight—rewarding across solo and group sessions, and newly enhanced with a playful “add your pets” template.

Like, comment, and subscribe to support thoughtful, positive board-game conversations. Share your gaming “weakness,” the game that defined your summer, or your own Two Truths and a Lie.

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Two Truths & a Lie and Games in a Shared Universe

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Mitchell Whitfield returns after a short break, and he and Jamey Stegmaier dive into friendship, laughter, and lessons learned through games. From relationship-ending Risk sessions to charades meltdowns, and from Dracula’s Curse to the challenges of designing within a game universe, this episode blends humor, honesty, and board-gaming insights.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe to Positively Board Gaming on your favorite podcast app, and join us on the Stonemaier Games YouTube channel for the video version. Share your own “Two Truths and a Lie” in the comments—or tell us your favorite game series that lives in a shared universe.

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Positively Board Gaming: Live Show

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0000

For the first time, Positively Board Gaming goes live—complete with live comments, spontaneous audience questions, and the energy only a real-time conversation can bring. Jamey and Mitchell open with “treats of the day” (featuring Japanese Kit Kats and chocolate caramels) before taking rapid-fire questions from viewers. Topics range from the games that make them smile most to the weirdest themes they enjoy, favorite acting roles, and the influence of music at the game table.

A major highlight is Mitchell’s glowing first play of Vantage, which he describes as unlike anything he’s played—combining the best elements of exploration video games and tabletop immersion. The duo also talk about live game night traditions, quirky board game food picks, the joy (and occasional regret) of culling games, and lesser-known TV shows they love.

Packed with community shout-outs, behind-the-scenes stories, and lots of laughter, this episode captures why Positively Board Gaming is more than a podcast—it’s a shared experience.

00:00 – Episode 21 goes live

04:42 – Treats of the day

10:35 – Audience Q&A: games that make us smile

17:12 – Weirdest board game themes

20:58 – Favorite projects from each other’s careers

27:50 – Discovering Vantage

40:18 – Acting, voice work & industry friendships

49:30 – Scholarly board game picks

56:11 – Gaming food choices

01:03:05 – Lesser-known TV shows worth watching

01:10:20 – Culling games from your collection

01:18:42 – Closing thoughts & gratitude

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D&D Classes and Superhero Games

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0000

From exploding corpses to comic book heroes, Mitchell and Jamey explore their favorite superhero games, RPG classes, and what happens when your party’s healer can’t stop picking fights.

Episode 20 of Positively Board Gaming kicks off with celebration, banter, and a preview of the first-ever live recording for episode 21. Mitchell and Jamey share their excitement for engaging directly with fans during the live stream and reflect on how much the show has grown.

Jamey starts the conversation by reviewing the new Fantastic Four movie—which he ranks in his top five superhero films of all time—and uses it as a jumping-off point to spotlight six of his favorite superhero-themed board games: Marvel Dice Throne, Sentinels of the Multiverse, Comic Hunters, Marvel Remix, Marvel Villainous, and The Reckoners. Mitchell dives into the mechanics and design of Sentinels, sharing his appreciation for how storytelling is integrated into card-based games.

Then, Mitchell takes over with a deep dive into his five favorite RPG character classes: the Necromancer, Cleric/Paladin, Bard, Ranger, and Rogue. He recounts hilarious D&D stories—like the time their healer insisted on leading every charge—and explores why certain archetypes resonate across both tabletop and video games.

0:00 – Welcome to Episode 20

2:12 – Live recording announcement for Episode 21

6:40 – Treats of the Day (Italian mousse cake & Panera goodies)

12:52 – Game night recap: New York Slice, Point Salad, No Thanks

15:00 – Positively Board Gaming now on Instagram

20:45 – Superhero movies: Fantastic Four, Black Panther, Captain America

28:10 – Superhero board games: Top picks from Jamey

35:40 – Mitchell’s top RPG/dungeon crawl classes

1:06:00 – Charisma and negotiation in RPGs

1:13:00 – Final thoughts and invite to the live episode

#BoardGames #TabletopRPG #SuperheroGames #RPGLife #PositivelyBoardGaming

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Games Worth a Deep Dive and Strategies You're Always Likely to Pursue

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

In this insightful and entertaining episode, Jamey Stegmaier and Mitchell Whitfield explore the personal side of board gaming strategies. Whether it’s letting the game guide your decisions or sticking to a tried-and-true plan, the hosts examine how play styles often mirror who we are.

00:00 – Introductions and treat of the day

03:20 – Popcorn prep and movie night

07:45 – Miniatures upgrade for Horrified D&D

13:10 – Game-related shirts and personal fashion

15:45 – Do your strategies reflect your personality?

19:00 – Seven Wonders and predictable play styles

27:15 – Jamey’s income obsession in Tapestry and Hadara

33:00 – Quacks of Quedlinburg: busting vs balance

40:20 – Dice Throne characters and complexity levels

47:10 – Most-played games and deep dive ideas

54:00 – Wrapping up and what’s coming next

#BoardGames #TabletopGaming #GameNight #QuacksOfQuedlinburg #DiceThrone #SevenWonders

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Stuff We Love and Great games that Deserve a Refresh

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

What do Sees Candies, disc golf, and a deluxe version of Lords of Waterdeep have in common? They’re all part of this feel-good episode packed with personal favorites, nostalgic treats, and board games we wish would come back.

In episode 18 of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell Whitfield and Jamey Stegmaier take a fun detour from typical game reviews and dive into a lightning round of their favorite things—from chocolate and pizza to current TV obsessions and tabletop accessories. Mitchell opens up with a sweet ode to Sees Candies’ chocolate-covered marshmallows, while Jamey shares his latest love: a local Earl Grey peach coffee.

From there, they riff on nostalgic TV, comfort food, and even a massive fidget-spinner-style DND dice. The episode also features an honest discussion about which games deserve a reprint or visual refresh—Battlestar Galactica, Lords of Waterdeep, and Comic Hunters top the list.

They wrap things up with Mitchell’s early impressions of Arydia, and tease an upcoming live episode for #21 that will let fans join the conversation in real time.

0:00 – Intro

2:21 – Community appreciation & audience growth

4:38 – Mitchell’s treat of the day: Sees Candies marshmallow

8:10 – Giant DND spinner die

13:50 – Jamey’s new format: Stuff We Love

16:00 – Local favorites: pizza, coffee, and snacks

22:10 – Sports we’re watching: Disc Golf, Soccer, Baseball

27:00 – TV talk: Dexter: Resurrection, Fringe, Dropout.TV

33:40 – Movie picks: Sinners and Superman

38:00 – Book recommendations: Mistborn trilogy & The Lodge

43:00 – Podcast picks: Dice Jesters, Keeper Cull, Dice Tower

47:40 – Game discussion: reprints, refreshes, and deluxe dreams

57:00 – Mitchell’s early Aridia impressions

1:06:00 – Wrapping up & live episode teaser

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Norwegian Board Game Cruise and Tips for Teaching Games

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

What does it feel like to finally ship a game eight years in the making? Jamey Stegmaier opens up about the emotional weight of launching Vantage, as well as his first ever gaming cruise, while Mitchell and Jamey share tips on how to teach games effectively—and why being present matters more than ever.

In this thoughtful and heartfelt episode, Mitchell Whitfield and Jamey Stegmaier reflect on the creative journey and emotional impact of launching a board game—specifically, Jamey’s long-anticipated Vantage. They explore the tension between fan excitement and creator burnout, and why it’s important to enjoy the moment instead of rushing to “what’s next.”

Jamey also recounts his first-ever board game cruise through Norway’s stunning fjords, where he connected with 200 gamers, explored beautiful ports, and discovered new favorite games like Saltfjord, Farshore, Port Royal: The Dice Game, and Bomb Busters.

The duo then shifts gears into a practical yet personal discussion on teaching games. They share their top strategies for guiding new players—including why overview first matters, how to run a practice round without overwhelming players, and ways to avoid “alpha gaming” while still being helpful. It’s a conversation that blends strategy, philosophy, and community in all the best ways.

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“Don’t forget to enjoy what’s in front of you. Be in the moment—there’s always time to worry about what’s next.” — Mitchell Whitfield"

"Teaching isn’t just about rules—it’s about helping someone feel the game.” — Jamey Stegmaier

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Therapeutic Benefits of Board Games and the Anticipation for Vantage

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

What do anticipation and emotional connection have to do with board games? Everything. In episode 16 of Positively Board Gaming, hosts Mitchell Whitfield and Jamey Stegmaier share how board games help during hard times—and how the excitement of waiting for a new release like Vantage can be just as meaningful as playing it.

This episode dives deep into the therapeutic value of gaming, the psychology behind pre-release hype, and the joy of comfort games. Jamie discusses his long-awaited game Vantage and what went into its carefully timed rollout. Mitchell opens up about how board game content helped him through medical challenges. Plus, hear their thoughts on new and upcoming titles like Roth, Tend, Runar, and more.

If you’ve ever found joy in gaming when life felt heavy—or gotten giddy over a shipping notification—this one’s for you.

0:00 – Intro + Sweet 16 Celebration

2:45 – Launching Socials for the Show

5:30 – Sweet Treats: Fudge Cake & Crab Cake Hush Puppies

13:40 – Stonemaier Vantage Coins & Components

17:55 – Kinfire Chronicles: Final Thoughts

23:10 – Gaming Cruise + Fjord Games

29:45 – The Psychology of Anticipation

42:15 – Crowdfunding Projects We’re Excited About

52:30 – The Therapeutic Value of Gaming

1:02:15 – Comfort Games and Emotional Connection

1:11:50 – Community Call to Share Your Stories

“Anticipation is its own kind of joy.” — Jamie Stegmaier

“Board games were my therapy—my escape, my connection, my comfort.” — Mitchell Whitfield

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Historical Games...and Designing the Ultimate Board Game

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

From grammar debates to nostalgic board game nights, this episode of Positively Board Gaming is full of surprises. Mitchell and Jamey kick off with s’mores Rice Krispie Treats and Trader Joe’s gummies, then dive deep into historical board games like Watergate, Comic Hunters, and Night of the Ninja. Plus, Mitchell pitches his dream board game based on the TV show Fringe and a fantasy NHL legacy game—complete with minis and an app!

0:00 – Grammar, commas & the Oxford Comma Society

5:20 – Treats of the day: s’mores Rice Krispie Treats & Trader Joe’s gummies

11:38 – Manicures, self-care, and pampering

17:55 – Game night recap: Night of the Ninja & Comic Hunters

27:00 – Topic of the day: Historical board games

31:15 – Watergate & thematic design challenges

42:20 – Fringe board game pitch: multiverse mechanics & asymmetry

53:00 – NHL legacy board game fantasy

1:00:32 – Call for listener ideas: What game would you ask Jamey to design?

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Affordable Games with Great Table Presence and Surprises in Games

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Looking for games under $50 that still wow on the table? In this episode of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell Whitfield and Jamey Stegmaier spotlight affordable board games with stunning table presence—and the surprise mechanics that keep them coming back for more.

0:00 – Introduction and mic mishaps

4:25 – Treat of the day: Ice cream and lemon blueberry cake

12:45 – Jamey’s Father’s Day, Mistborn, and surprise win conditions

25:02 – Game surprises and adventure games like Destinies

35:01 – Top 5 affordable games with table presence

36:30 – Honorable mentions: Spots & Red Rising

42:18 – #1: Fire Tower

44:05 – #2: 20 Strong

45:40 – #3: Dice Miner

47:10 – #4: Sushi Roll

48:35 – #5: Tiger and Dragon

51:02 – Jamey’s pick: Compile

54:15 – Final thoughts and listener feedback prompt

“The card didn’t just let you win—it made you earn the win. That’s good design.” – Jamey Stegmaier

“You don’t need to spend $150 to get a game that makes people stop and say: what is that?” – Mitchell Whitfield

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Games we Played as Kids...and the Importance of D&D to the Hobby

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0000

What board games were you playing when you were 13—and do they still hold up today? In Episode 13 of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell Whitfield and Jamey Stegmaier explore their childhood favorites and dive deep into the nostalgic joy of games like Risk, Magic: The Gathering, Scotland Yard, and more. They also discuss how Dungeons & Dragons helped shape the modern tabletop landscape—and why RPGs like Daggerheart might be your next big adventure.

From chocolate chip cookies and European vacations to tightrope walkers and collectible dice, this episode is packed with personal stories, gaming inspiration, and heartfelt moments. Whether you’re a legacy gamer or new to tabletop RPGs, you’ll find something to love in this conversation about memory, play, and connection.

0:00 – Welcome and pet memories

3:02 – Sweet Treat of the Day: Europe & vegan cookies

12:44 – Games we played at 13

21:55 – Scotland Yard, Bridge, and Blarney

28:20 – The lasting influence of D&D

37:05 – Daggerheart, Critical Role, and the RPG-board game crossover

47:19 – Easy-entry RPGs and hybrid board games

53:55 – Nostalgia, memory, and gaming joy

58:14 – Wrapping up with humor and gratitude

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Starting a Board Game Collection...and Recommending Games

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0000

What makes a great board game collection—and how do you start one without getting overwhelmed? In this episode of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell and Jamey explore the joys and pitfalls of beginning a board game collection, and how weather (and s’mores) can’t stop a great game night.

Despite a thunderstorm, 12 guests showed up for Jamey’s game night, prompting a heartfelt conversation about what motivates us to play—rain or shine. Mitchell dives into how to thoughtfully build a game collection from scratch, including practical tips on avoiding overwhelming purchases, playing with your group in mind, and choosing games that are fun, portable, and easy to table.

The duo also exchange recent game night stories and sweet treats—from licorice-infused Icelandic chocolate, to s’mores-flavored Nothing Bundt Cakes. Jamey shares his first experience playing Night of the Ninja—a recommendation from Mitchell—and how the game’s rotating allegiances made it a hit. They wrap with reflections on the joy of recommending a game that really clicks and tease what’s to come in episode 13: their rebellious teenage phase.

0:00 – Intro banter & rebellious episode tease

2:12 – How bad does weather need to be to cancel game night?

8:19 – Game night food & the Nothing Bundt Cake experience

13:45 – Icelandic licorice chocolate and candy chat

19:20 – Starting your board game collection

30:25 – Jamey's first board games & Mitchell’s beginner picks

43:18 – Avoiding game overload and enjoying your collection

51:00 – The joy of recommending games that land

58:42 – Jamey finally plays Night of the Ninja

1:06:10 – Why rotating teams work so well

1:14:01 – What’s next & comments request

“Just make sure you’re acquiring games at a pace that you’re able to enjoy.” — Mitchell Whitfield

“I think one of the best feelings is recommending a game and watching it really click for someone.” — Jamey Stegmaier

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Geekway Highlights, and New-to-Us Games

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0000

From Geekway to the West, to Biscoff KitKats from Iceland, Episode 11 is packed with joy, new discoveries, and heartfelt appreciation for the board gaming community. Mitchell Whitfield and Jamey Stegmaier reconnect after a tech-disaster hiatus to explore new-to-them games, the power of teaching games, and why the cost of fun doesn’t have to break the bank.

After a brief break due to a tornado and a hack, Jamey and Mitchell are back — and they waste no time jumping into the things they love most: games and shared experiences. Jamey shares his experience at Geekway to the West, where he played 15 new games and taught 10 others, highlighting titles like Rajas of the Ganges: The Card Game, Panda Royale, and Nuns on the Run.

Mitchell dives into his recent plays of Dixit, Comic Hunters, and The Witcher: Path of Destiny, emphasizing the joy of discovering new favorites and the emotional connection tied to nostalgic artwork and immersive storytelling. The episode also celebrates the unsung heroes of game nights — the people who patiently and passionately teach others how to play.

[Chapters]

0:00 – Welcome Back + Life Updates

3:15 – Treats of the Day: KitKat from Iceland & Molcajete

9:55 – First Time Playing Dixit

16:32 – Geekway to the West Highlights

21:15 – Jamey’s Favorite Geekway Games

29:50 – The Joy of Teaching Games

34:12 – Comic Hunters Review

42:45 – The Witcher: Path of Destiny Impressions

50:30 – Cost vs. Value in Games

53:40 – Convention Tips & Snack Smuggling

57:50 – Wrap-Up & Listener Callout

“You can’t dress up a game that doesn’t resonate with you.” — Mitchell

“Fifteen new games in three days… and I’d do it again.” — Jamey

“Teaching a game is one of the purest joys in this hobby.” — Mitchell

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Underrated Games...and What Makes a Great Gateway Game?

Thu, 22 May 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Double digits and double the fun! In episode 10 of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell and Jamey celebrate reaching a milestone, share underrated game recommendations, and dive deep into what makes a great gateway game.

0:00 – Episode 10! Welcome & recording banter

2:15 – Sweet Treat of the Day: Queso Fundido & Milano cookies

10:40 – The impact of tariffs on board game shipping

24:00 – What makes a great gateway game?

42:10 – Jamie’s top 3 underrated board games

48:50 – Mitchell’s favorite overlooked game: Night of the Ninja

55:00 – Room to grow: How gateway games teach strategy over time

1:02:30 – Seven Wonders as a gateway game

1:07:45 – Game collecting & prepping to teach

1:13:00 – Jamie teases next week’s topic

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Gaming Partners & the Fear of Not Having Everything (FONHE)

Thu, 15 May 2025 12:00:00 -0000

In episode 9 of Positively Board Gaming, Mitchell and Jamey dive into the emotional heart of tabletop gaming—starting with their “sweet treats of the day” and ending with a deep, honest conversation about gaming habits, nostalgia, and collector mindset.

Jamey shares a joy-filled evening plan involving author Fredrik Backman and some fresh St. Louis eats, while Mitchell celebrates strawberries and whipped cream… and portable retro gaming consoles that bring childhood favorites back to life. Then it’s onto meaningful reflections about gaming companions—whether it’s a partner, spouse, or trusted friend group—and how sharing games strengthens bonds.

The episode’s big topic? FONHE: Fear of Not Having Everything. Mitchell opens up about the emotional tug of collecting every Dice Throne expansion, while Jamey explores how space, cost, and personal enjoyment play into completionism. It’s a thoughtful, funny, and surprisingly therapeutic discussion all hobby gamers will relate to.

⏱️ Chapters

0:00 – Introduction & Sweet Treats of the Day

7:15 – Book readings, friends, and St. Louis appreciation

13:30 – Retro handheld video game consoles

21:45 – Who’s your gaming companion?

34:00 – Board games with partners and family

45:12 – FONHE: Fear of Not Having Everything

54:30 – Love Letter collection habits

1:00:45 – Completionism in video games

1:09:40 – TMNT, Unmatched, and crowdfunding caveats

1:13:00 – Final thoughts and community shout-outs

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Playing on Board Game Arena, and Why We Love Crowd Funding

Thu, 08 May 2025 12:00:00 -0000

What’s it like doing a live CNN interview about board game tariffs? Jamey shares the behind-the-scenes experience...plus, a deep-dive in to digital board gaming on Board Game Arena and the emotional power of crowdfunding your favorite games.

The conversation shifts to the joys (and quirks) of playing digital board games on Board Game Arena. Jamey discusses playing Apiary digitally for the first time and how micro-interactions differ from the tactile tabletop version.

Later, Mitchell leads a heartfelt discussion about the appeal of crowdfunding games. They explore why backers love supporting projects, the power of exclusives, and the emotional connection of helping something come to life. Jamey opens up about his own evolution in crowdfunding—both as a creator and a fan.

[Chapters]

0:00 – Intro & Weekly Banter

2:55 – Mitchell talks about Jamey and his CNN appearance

6:20 – Jamey on the stress of media interviews

11:40 – Visual cues and communication challenges

17:00 – Board Game Arena & the Apiary experience

26:12 – Digital vs. physical game mechanics

31:44 – Crowdfunding board games: Why we love it

38:10 – Feeling connected through backing projects

47:00 – What makes a perfect campaign?

55:00 – Listener callouts and final thoughts

In this emotionally rich and insightful episode, Mitchell Whitfield and Jamey Stegmaier open up about the challenge of high-pressure media moments. Jamey reflects on his recent CNN appearance, highlighting the difficulty of speaking on complex issues with no visual feedback and limited time. Mitchell draws from his own on-camera experience, making it a relatable and revealing conversation about communication in media.

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Why Your Player Color Matters, and How Playing Board Games in VR Changes Everything

Thu, 01 May 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Ever wonder why your favorite game color matters — or how virtual reality could change board gaming forever? In this episode, Mitchell and Jamey dive into personal gaming habits, the emotional ties to player colors, and an unexpected love letter to VR tabletop gaming.

0:00 – Introduction: Zombie Sleep and Effervescent Energy

4:15 – Jamey's Treat of the Day: Birthday Lunch and Fresh Bread

10:28 – Mitchell’s Treat of the Day: Chocolate Coins and Childhood Memories

17:05 – Weekly Format Reminder and Listener Feedback Shoutout

20:10 – Jamey's Topic: The Joy of Choosing Red in Board Games

35:20 – Mitchell’s Color Preferences: Stealth Gaming and Emotional Connections

43:00 – Mitchell’s Topic: How VR Could Transform Board Gaming

55:00 – Jamey's Thoughts on VR Settings and Thematic Immersion

1:02:10 – Final Thoughts and Listener Callout for VR Experiences

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Playing Games in New Locations, Four New Games we're Excited to Play, and Blueberries and Slippers

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Mitchell and Jamey dive into the emotional connections tied to where we play our games. From campaign finales to game cafés and vacation rentals, they reflect on how space shapes memories. Mitchell also highlights four exciting crowdfunded games that just landed on his doorstep, including The Witcher: Path of Destiny, The Dark Quarter, Aridia, and The Elder Scrolls: Betrayal of the Second Era. Meanwhile, Jamey shares his recent gaming experience with Earth: Abundance and talks about upcoming plays of Deep Regrets and Rebirth. Oh—and slippers. Very comfy slippers.

⏱️ Chapter Markers

00:00 – Episode intro + Who is Mitchell Whitfield?
04:30 – Treat of the Day: Slippers & blueberries
12:20 – Descent Legends of the Dark finale impressions
16:00 – Topic: Playing games in different environments
25:00 – Mitchell’s latest crowdfunding arrivals
37:10 – Jamey’s recent plays + Deep Regrets excitement
43:05 – Kickstarter pick: Pocket RPG
47:30 – Wrap-up + Blueberries & Slippers

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Positive Player Interactions, and our Emotional Attachment to Games

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:29:00 -0000

Explore the emotional side of board gaming with Jamey Stegmaier and Mitchell Whitfield as they dive into campaign game attachments, positive player interaction, and how gamers can support publishers through rising tariffs.

⏱️ Chapters

00:01 – Sweet treats: Reese’s cookies and PF Chang’s Great Wall of Cake
05:32 – Board game tariffs and how fans can help
10:20 – Should publishers accept donations during hard times?
18:45 – Positive player interaction in Earth, FinSpan, and more
30:48 – Emotional bonds with campaign game characters
44:02 – Character evolution in Descent: Legends of the Dark
54:40 – Game design that lets players choose with their heart

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Deluxe Board Games and the Joys of Unboxing Them

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey Stegmaier and Mitchell Whitfield dive into the therapeutic joy of unboxing board games and explore what makes deluxe editions so irresistible. From custom dice to the Castles of Burgundy Collector’s Edition, they unpack the tactile magic behind premium components.

00:00 – Intro and sweet treats

02:40 – Nintendo Switch 2 excitement

05:15 – Mitchell’s love for unboxing games

12:42 – The unboxing therapy effect

16:30 – Custom components that spark joy

19:10 – Jamey’s collector’s edition experience

23:20 – Deluxe vs. accessible pricing

29:50 – Favorite tactile components

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Games for All Ages & The One Thing You'll Never Hear Us Say on This Show

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0000

In episode 3 of Positively Board Gaming, Jamey Stegmaier and Mitchell Whitfield go deep on the show’s mission: celebrating joy, inclusion, and positivity in the tabletop gaming hobby.

Mitchell explains why you’ll never hear them bash a board game on this podcast—and why that’s intentional. From expectations in art to how criticism can unintentionally silence conversation, they share their philosophy of respecting the creators and communities behind every game.

Then, it’s on to Jamey’s recent intergenerational game night and some excellent picks that shine in all-ages settings, like Caution Signs, Boop, and Nekojima. Mitchell shares how his tastes are evolving and the ever-growing list of party and cooperative games he’s getting excited to explore.

Plus, they talk about the board game delivery tsunami that seems to always hit after Chinese New Year, why expectations shape experience, and how much more fun it is to talk about what you love.

🎲 Whether you're a long-time gamer or just board game curious, this episode is a heartwarming reminder of why we play in the first place.

💬 Quotes

"It may not be for me, but someone poured their heart into it. I’d never want to tear that down publicly." – Mitchell Whitfield
"There are seven billion people on the planet. Everyone has a different opinion about what’s good." – Jamey Stegmaier

🔗 Relevant Links

PositivelyBoardGaming.com

Stonemaier Games YouTube Channel

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The Reality of Game Design and Game Nights

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:17:24 -0000

🔗 Relevant Links

Stonemaier Games: https://stonemaiergames.com

Vantage by Stonemaier (latest updates): https://stonemaiergames.com/games/vantage

Survivor Board Game: https://explodingkittens.com/products/survivor

Positively Board Gaming website: https://positivelyboardgaming.com

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Why We Game: Fun Over Winning & Weekend Gaming Fantasies

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:15:59 -0000

🔗 Links

Gamers Ranch: https://thegamersranch.com

Stonemaier Games: https://stonemaiergames.com

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