This is beginning to be a habit
I'm sticking to my intention of getting one of these newsletters out weekly. It helps keep me engaged and not just drift along. This past week has had plenty going on in the real world. A lot of things that made talking about board games feel trite and unimportant.
While we could - and should - talk and focus on those things, it's also important we look after our own mental health, and that of those around us too. Board games, to me, are an avenue to do exactly that.
Played this week
I've had a few prototypes and preview copies turn up recently. One I was particularly looking forward to playing is Psychobabble. I'd talked to its creator, Kedric, a few times, and loved the idea. It's a social deduction game set loosely in Lovecraft's world, with three distinct roles.
I'll be writing a full review soon, so I won't go into much more detail now, but I will say I really enjoyed it (played with seven players), and it's unusual for a social deduction game, in that no-one has to lie.
Suggested reading
The written review world for board games is smaller than something like YouTube and other video channels, and as a result we tend to read each others' work. The best in the business, in my opinion, is Dan Thurot of Space-Biff! His reviews are usually more like critique pieces, and he has a fabulous way with words.
Check out his write-up of Stonewall Rising, a superb article about a game that should stir up strong emotions in anyone https://spacebiff.com/2022/06/27/stonewall-uprising/
Review round-up
I didn't get too much written this week, thanks to a hectic work and home life, but I really enjoyed Long Shot: The Dice Game, and I think you will too.
Long Shot: The Dice Game Review - Punchboard — punchboard.co.uk Roll-and-write horse racing chaos from Long Shot: The Dice Game. Gamble, buy horses, and curse your friends when they ruin your plans.
Until next time folks,
Adam