Covenant

Video Yu1lox96XZs Dice Tower game_review at 0:10 sentiment: positive

video_pk 62667 · mention_pk 155367

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Strong thematic integration with Euro-style action economy
Tight action economy and upgrade path for dwarves
High potential for combo-driven play (tracks, relics, tools, inlays)
Clear teaching aids and individual player boards aid first-time players

Cons

Production usability issues: crowded hall tiles and unclear track icons
Rulebook clarity could be improved; finding needed information can be difficult
Moderate randomness (hall flips, dice in skirmishes) may be higher than some players prefer

Thematic elements

Array
Dwarven fantasy in a mountain realm
informational review with thematic analysis

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Action Expansion / Acquisition — Players can acquire additional action spots during the game, creating variations of base actions.
Combat: Dice — Skirmish actions capture monsters; combat uses strength checks and dice, with rewards and a jail system.
Dice/Skirmish Combat — Skirmish actions capture monsters; combat uses strength checks and dice, with rewards and a jail system.
End-of-Track / Multi-Track Scoring — Players advance along several tracks that grant bonuses and drive end-game scoring through projects, relics, and tools.
Resource management — Resources must be stored in a storage area and spent to perform actions, build, forge tools, and deliver goods.
Tile/ Hall Tile Interaction — Flipped hall tiles spawn monsters and grant bonuses; hall layout influences scoring and building options.
Track advancement — Players advance along several tracks that grant bonuses and drive end-game scoring through projects, relics, and tools.
worker placement — Players place dwarves on action spots to perform actions; each round uses four dwarves and spots activate once per round.
Worker upgrading — Dwarves can be trained/upgraded to strengthen actions; upgrades improve action strength over time.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The theme for a straightup Euro game works really well in this game.
The actions you're taking make perfect sense in terms of what you need to do and it's obvious which actions you need to take to get to it.
This really is an efficiency puzzle to the game.
If you're a fan of Thinky Euros, this is definitely one to check out.
Just so many combos to be looking for.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video rTfPgm09ssY Hungry Gamer game_review at 0:09 sentiment: positive

video_pk 62407 · mention_pk 154933

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Strong theme with dwarves and mining lore
Engaging chaining turns that feel satisfying
High production quality with distinctive acrylic components
Solid learning curve: easy to teach but deep mastery is rewarding
Solo mode is straightforward and enjoyable

Cons

Mastery requires multiple plays and can be hard to reach
Rule nuance can be easy to miss, leading to occasional misplays
Monster/token art is hard to discern on the wooden cylinders
Long turns can feel heavy at times, and background noise in video era can distract

Thematic elements

Array
Dwarven clan mining kingdom in a mountainous fantasy world
Mythic with humorous, characterful touches

Comparison games

SETI
Shackleton Base
Deep Shelf

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Resource management — Beer boosts dwarf strength; gems, relics, and tools contribute to build and forge actions.
Resource Management and Bonuses — Beer boosts dwarf strength; gems, relics, and tools contribute to build and forge actions.
tableau building — Actions chain into bigger effects via tiles and relics, enabling more powerful combos over the course of a round.
Tableau building / engine building — Actions chain into bigger effects via tiles and relics, enabling more powerful combos over the course of a round.
Tile Flipping / Reveal — Tiles flip to reveal rewards; back sides grant alternative effects or bonuses.
Victory Point Scoring and Endgame Deliveries — End-of-round scoring conditions lead to endgame scoring; delivering mined goods to various places yields points, including impressing the king.
worker placement — Players place four dwarves on one of four actions (dig, fight, build, deliver) each round, with action strength shaping results.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

On the surface, you're just going to do one thing. You put a thing down. Okay, I'm going to dig.
The turns can chain together long things are intensely, intensely satisfying.
spoiler, I enjoyed the game. And I definitely hope to play again.
If you like dwarves and if you like the idea of these chaining turns and if you like the idea of a very tight economy because everything costs something, so it can be very hard to get everything you need, those ducks in a row so you can knock them all down.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video i-eWVNmQoIk Unknown Channel interview at 0:14 sentiment: positive

video_pk 40016 · mention_pk 120939

Click to watch at 0:14 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Dynamic worker-space mechanic where ships can disappear and be restored, creating tension and planning depth
Shorter playtime relative to other complex 4X-Euro hybrids, making it accessible to broader audiences
Distinct Captain archetypes provide varied playstyles and strategic flexibility
Strong thematic integration with the Voidfall universe, including house-driven influence and end-game multipliers
Planetary exploration and random card draws boost replayability and variability
Ability to rebuild ships and recover actions adds resilience and strategic choice

Cons

High complexity and learning curve may overwhelm new players
Indirect competition and lack of direct PvP may disappoint players seeking direct conflict
Hidden agendas can introduce randomness that frustrates meticulous planners
Rule density with multiple tracks and phases could invite analysis paralysis for some groups

Thematic elements

space fleet management, survival against a common enemy, political influence across houses
Voidfall universe; space opera with Great Houses, fleets, and a shared mission to reach Lost colonies.
shared-world background with modular, evolving story; no traditional campaign but with hidden agendas and shifting threats

Comparison games

Battle Star Galactica
Dune Imperium

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

asymmetric_captains — each Captain offers a distinct playstyle; symmetry exists at a structural level but with varied tactical options.
card_play_and_bonus_actions — cards provide bonus actions or rewards; players may choose to play a card or forgo it to gain alternative rewards.
common_enemy_reactive_competition — a shared antagonistic force attacks the fleet; players compete indirectly since all actions target the same objective.
end game bonuses — points from tracks are multiplied by survivals of ships from each house; end-game multipliers add tension to protection decisions.
end_game_scoring_and_multipliers — points from tracks are multiplied by survivals of ships from each house; end-game multipliers add tension to protection decisions.
hidden victory points — players start with hidden scoring objectives that influence end-game scoring.
hidden_agendas — players start with hidden scoring objectives that influence end-game scoring.
hyper_jump_and_location_exploration — players can hyper-jump to new locations; each location brings planets with new worker spaces and drawn cards.
indirect_competition — while players share a common foe, there is no direct PvP combat; competition centers on scoring, positioning, and risk.
Influence Points — seven House tracks grant influence; higher influence yields more points and strategic leverage, with end-game multipliers based on fleet survivals.
influence_tracks_with_houses — seven House tracks grant influence; higher influence yields more points and strategic leverage, with end-game multipliers based on fleet survivals.
planets_and_random_card_draws — planets carry worker spaces; drawn cards introduce new strategic options and variability.
Resource management — resources are allocated to build or repair ships and sustain the fleet through threats.
resource_management — resources are allocated to build or repair ships and sustain the fleet through threats.
Semi-cooperative — a shared antagonistic force attacks the fleet; players compete indirectly since all actions target the same objective.
ship_rebuild_and_destruction — ships can be destroyed and rebuilt; rebuilding may require resources and can restore action spaces.
tactics_track — a track that influences turn order and other benefits; tactical decisions shift as the track advances.
worker placement — players place captain or cadets on ships; the ship determines the action/output, including resources or enemy interactions.
worker_placement — players place captain or cadets on ships; the ship determines the action/output, including resources or enemy interactions.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

it's totally a competitive game
the ships which are your worker spaces might not always be there
it's reactive, it's very tactical decision
the total game is like 12 actions right
there's also a multiplier for those points based on how many ships you manage to keep alive
Dynamic work placement game
we are tremendously excited about this game

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video gyovZhcUnP0 BO TV convention_coverage at 9:25 sentiment: positive

video_pk 32579 · mention_pk 96429

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

ambitious scope
immersive gimmick with space theme

Cons

high complexity that could overwhelm some players

Thematic elements

Fleet upgrades, captain progression, and space combat
Spacefaring factional conflict with space battles
Ambitious, gimmick-rich sci-fi adventure

Comparison games

Battlestar Galactica

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

3D/space-occupancy style worker placement — A large, multi-dimensional placement mechanic where actions are tied to token spaces that exist in space
card play and upgrade cycle — Cards upgrade ships and captains to improve capabilities
dynamic space-threat mechanism — Spaces spaces disappear or move, adding tension and difficulty
worker placement — A large, multi-dimensional placement mechanic where actions are tied to token spaces that exist in space

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

it's basically just cardboard tiles on a battlefield
this is warham on cardboard
it's a thing of beauty to look at and to play
melted all of our brains at the end of the long Saturday
amazing, amazing content coming from SP 2024

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video lRyI1vyAGaE Board Game Garden general_discussion at 2:25 sentiment: positive

video_pk 31175 · mention_pk 91917

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Deep, heavy strategy with strong asymmetric design
Rich, modular ship and component variety
Hidden influence and end-game scoring create meaningful tension
Multiple phases and tracks offer varied strategic paths

Cons

High complexity and long play sessions may deter new players
Prototype status means potential changes before final release
Steep learning curve for onboarding and rule comprehension

Thematic elements

space empire politics and defense
Voidfall universe
asymmetric, competitive with hidden objectives

Comparison games

Voidfall
Traron
Ana Gr

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Area/house influence tracks — seven houses have tracks that determine power, scoring multipliers, and resource gains.
Asymmetric player boards — each player can choose sides (commander/admiral) with unique abilities and track layouts.
Card-driven hand management — equipment, training, and support cards combine with hidden influence cards for strategic depth.
Combat: Damage Based — voidborn ships, absorbers, corruption tokens, and Revenant damage tiles create strategic tension and board impact.
Combat/damage and mitigation — voidborn ships, absorbers, corruption tokens, and Revenant damage tiles create strategic tension and board impact.
Hidden influence and discovery cubes — players acquire hidden influence cards and discovery cubes that influence end-game scoring.
Phase-based gameplay — play proceeds through sonar, action, recall, breach, and hyper jump phases over four rounds.
Resource management — four primary resources (science, neutronium, energy, materials) are used to perform actions and upgrade components.
Variable Phase Order — play proceeds through sonar, action, recall, breach, and hyper jump phases over four rounds.
worker placement — players place three crew on ships to take actions, gain influence, and drive strategy.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

this is Revenant
it's a heavy side game with deep strategy and asymmetric design
this is one of the bigger games that I've done a preview on
the aim of the game is four rounds and the player with the most victory points at the end wins
set in the voidfall universe

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video O3Yj_ZkwQKg Unknown Channel playthrough at 9:56 sentiment: mixed

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Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

rich space opera theme with seven houses and ship types
multi-path progression via cards, upgrades, and captain/crew improvements
interactive negotiations and bragging rights in semi-cooperative play
presence of a dynamic endgame with final destination cards in later rounds
compact core loop with worker placement and tactical decisions

Cons

rules and components are prototypes; user-end experience may vary
potentially heavy learning curve and scale sensitivity for 3-player games
semi-cooperative mechanic can cause frustration if players betray trust
scoring can be opaque and requires careful tracking of many resources

Thematic elements

house influence, alliance building, ship management in space
void fall universe, space exploration with orange/pink ships, houses and influence tracks
semi-cooperative with hidden agendas and strategic conflict

Comparison games

Battle Star Galactica
Nemesis
Veiled Fate
Mercurial
Forage

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

absorbers and voidborn combat — voidborn ships damaged or destroyed; absorbers mitigate damage by placing tokens on sectors
breach phase and hyper jump — per round breach phase damages ships; hyper jump relocates ships and resets certain tracks
card upgrades and training — cards upgrade frigates, crew, captain and provide bonuses; training cards give ongoing benefits
corruption and its penalties — corruption tokens accrue for corrupted ships; affects bonus actions and scoring penalties
house influence multipliers — ships influence a house, increasing VP via multipliers on the house track
Influence Points — ships influence a house, increasing VP via multipliers on the house track
worker placement — players send crew to ships to take actions; limited to three workers per round

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Revenant is up on Kickstarter right now
this is a semi-cooperative game
we are going to hyper jump
Battlestar Galactica is used as a comparison
Veiled Fate feels like a social bluffing game
Forage was mentioned as a potential play

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video EszBCH8y3ZU Our Family Plays Games holiday_gift_guide at 44:20 sentiment: positive

video_pk 13781 · mention_pk 40269

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

puzzly, deep strategy
solo play supported

Cons

steep learning curve

Thematic elements

Dwarven fantasy
Dwarven clan reclaiming homeland
Heavy euro with long-term planning

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

long-term planning — Heavy euro with long-term strategy and efficiency.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

We are talking about our holiday gift guide and we’ve got the Battle List.
Two Amanda — Town 77.
Is it Cake? we watched the Halloween one and the Christmas special.
Is this the Christmas talk? Yes, we are talking about Christmas.
We’re going to have a con in Omaha next year.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 6bFysEK5yjA Roy Gyson Tech Names general_discussion at 47:50 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Deep, interlocking engine with multiple routes to win
High production value and clear teach
Thematic cohesion between mechanism and theme

Cons

Relatively long playtime for four players
Steep learning curve to optimize interactions

Thematic elements

engine-building and multi-path victory via tracks, artifacts, and diplomacy
Fantasy dwarven kingdom with court intrigue
Euro-style strategy with thematic dwarven motifs

Comparison games

Patchwork
Positano
Aisle of Cats Duel

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Dwarf action engine — Four dwarf workers with strength levels perform actions (dig, transport, skirmish, build).
End-of-round council and scoring — End-of-round events grant resources and drive scoring via cards/tracks.
Modular tiles and terrain tiles — Tiles flip to provide new actions; terrain tiles affect future turns.
Multiple win conditions and fixed turns — Game consists of 12 turns with four actions per round; several routes to victory.
Resource tracking and tracks — Resource tracks and a king's coin system; track advancement influences scoring.
Tool slots and forges — Acquire tools/forges to enhance actions; unlocks scoring and tracks.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Tony just absolutely rocked this game
This is Covenant, Tony’s Euro of the year
There are four actions on your board, and each action can trigger multiple effects
The beasts are going to restrict which suits I can play
The teach is easy, but the combos make it deep
You can rotate the tiles and still score heavily if you plan well

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video VoueHTR24Us Jimmy's Board Games top_10_list at 37:24 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

one of the most ambitious upgrade systems in the modern euro
deep optimization with many viable paths to victory
high production and thematic clarity

Cons

complex setup and a lot of moving parts
learning curve is steep for newcomers

Thematic elements

ancient dwarven reclamation with goblins and orcs opposing them
dwarven tribe reclaiming a ruined homeland (Moros-like setting)
character-driven, upgrade-heavy, highly thematic progression

Comparison games

Ark Nova
Gotham City Chronicles

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

endgame scoring via dungeon monsters — score via monsters stored in a dungeon and endgame inventory/skills.
multi-layered action economy — you add tiles, gems, and inventory to maximize endgame scoring, with asymmetrical player powers.
upgrading action spaces and resources — start with basic actions that can be upgraded with tiles and gems for added income.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is the epitome of like first round very short not a lot going on. Last round much much longer.
You look bougie. Speak Easy is the new hot Euro game from Vital Lecerda.
This is my number one game of the year: Covenant.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video hhEPICPbANU Before You Play general_discussion at 11:48 sentiment: positive

video_pk 12063 · mention_pk 35348

Click to watch at 11:48 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Mentioned as a noteworthy title from Deve

Cons

Details about gameplay not provided

Thematic elements

Unknown
Unknown
Unknown

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

unknown — Unknown

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

There's no solving it.
It's a waiting game.
We love her. She's great and she's going to grow out of this.
Please let us know what you've been playing and what games you're looking forward to that are releasing this year.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video SM25kp56eS4 The Broken Meeple discussion at 0:00 sentiment: mixed

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Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

Enjoyed demo experience

Cons

Expensive Admiral Edition (€129)
Expensive Captain Edition (£89)
FOMO tactics with deluxe components
Retail version has bare-bones components

Thematic elements

Adventure
Exploration

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I'm not as much of a completionist as I used to be
I've got so much content in there already that probably still isn't played
I've just kind of given up on Kickstarter
Board game geek is kind of guilty for that
I'm playing games to enjoy them and yes I play to win but I play to win in the spirit of the game
Why am I spending this much money on a gamble it's not worth it
These are the ones I like or these are Trends I don't like these are mechanics I don't like

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video fquBWXDDmL8 Our Family Plays Games general_discussion at 38:10 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Rich thematic vibe
Solid production

Cons

Potentially heavy

Thematic elements

monster invasion and reclaiming
dwarven mountain kingdom defense
fantasy

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Cooperative/competitive play — work with others to defend kingdom
deck-building — build a deck of hero actions

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

it has all of the DNA of the big boy except for the dice
We're pirates. You gotta raid.
24 hours. Y'all can play all night long.
Omaha gaming convention
Save yourself. Terascape 2 is now on Kickstarter.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video bWumNjL1QuI Board Gaming Ramblings general_discussion at 14:49 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Crunchy, dense decision space with lots going on
Strong sense of progression and joy during play
Engaging to explore and iterate on strategies

Cons

Potentially heavy rules and learning curve
Could be lengthy for some groups

Thematic elements

unknown
unknown
unknown

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

crunchy action system — multiple actions and upgrades with tracking on a core board that unlocks bonuses
progression/track unlocking — advancing on tracks to unlock bonuses and opportunities
Resource management — managing resources to enable actions and upgrades

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

"This is something unique. I can't explain it. You should go and buy it now."
"If you don't, you're going to be angry at me in a year that you didn't."
"The mall of spiel. All the board games of the universe."
"It's a catch all. It's a catch all."
"This feeling is fun. This is fun. That's why I say all the time."

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video dzEhLZz3lfc Unknown top_list at 20:38 sentiment: positive

video_pk 10231 · mention_pk 30223

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Excellent designer with strong track record
Fast playing time compared to designer's previous games
Euro gameplay with tight mechanics

Cons

Limited information available

Thematic elements

dwarves
underground kingdom
mining

Comparison games

Boku
Menara

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I'm not here to talk about that I'm here to talk about games
catch-up games has been on fire
I love his Cooperative design sensibilities
how does this game not already exist
I want more games that tell in 2025 a positive story about how we can work in unison with nature
2025 might be the year of co-ops
pure Feld simple Elegance that leads to deep challenging decisions
Coming of age is by far my number one most anticipated game

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video sgRD0Me5MRs Glowing Analog general_discussion at 21:18 sentiment: positive

video_pk 10221 · mention_pk 30159

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Satisfying combo-driven design with thematic dwarven flavor
Clear sense of progression and upgrade paths
Vibrant art and tactile components

Cons

Can be dense for new players
Some may prefer more direct scoring methods rather than track-driven scoring

Thematic elements

dwarven industry and beastly ventures, beer buffs for temporary power
dwarves mining, forging, and reviving a mountain stronghold
combo-driven, dwarven fantasy with tactile beer buffs

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Beer buffs — Temporary boosts to a dwarf's abilities via beer mechanics.
Combo-driven action economy — Players chain actions and bonuses along tracks to maximize efficiency.
Dwarf customization and card-driven bonuses — Upgrade and modify dwarf power through tracks and abilities.
Temporary buffs via beer — Beer cards provide temporary power boosts to the dwarf and allow stronger moves.
Track-based progression — Players advance along tracks to gain better rewards and scoring power.
Track-based progression and upgrades — Dwarves climb tracks to unlock better actions and scoring opportunities.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

BGcon is the highlight of my year.
The BG library is huge; 99% of your time is spent playing games.
We ran the board game quiz show live at BGCon in the fall in Dallas, Texas.
This is not a pipe. This is a game about a pipe.
The double wheel system of selecting actions is just fantastic.
Take Time around the clock is a great mind-share battle; it makes you yell at each other in good fun.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video To57_FF0yRY Board Stupid top_10_list at 12:19 sentiment: mixed

video_pk 8909 · mention_pk 26283

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Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

Deep, dense engine with limited turns
High replayability via asymmetry and combos

Cons

Iconography and rules can be heavy/confusing
Not as accessible to new players

Thematic elements

fantasy dwarves; mining; tribute; monster
dwarven clans reclaiming mines and defending a king
dense, iconography-heavy

Comparison games

Limits
Ember Heart

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

action selection from a limited pool — nine to twelve actions total; players craft combos
engine building — combine actions to mine, build, explore, or fight monster
engine-building / combos — combine actions to mine, build, explore, or fight monster

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's a banger.
That is a banger for me.
The theme elevates to my heart.
This is the dream because the theme is done so well and interwoven with the mechanics.
It's a solid for me.
I want to play more.
It's a fantastic production.
The world’s limits are pretty big and a lot of moral choices.
Take Time is the biggest surprise of the year.
It is a wonderful deterministic experience that doesn't last 4 hours.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video Y8wIgJ7YR9Y Brothers Murf top_10_list at 17:43 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

great theme and art
high engine interaction and player choice
expansions add depth and variability

Cons

requires planning discipline
some players may prefer longer, more sprawling engines

Thematic elements

engine-building, exploration, monster encounters
dwarven clans mining a mountain, forging outcomes
strategy-forward with thematic flavor

Comparison games

Rising Sun
Ankh: Gods of Egypt

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

area action economy — buildings and actions interact to create a push-pull economy.
engine building — upgrade dwarves and forge abilities to expand action efficiency.
engine-building — upgrade dwarves and forge abilities to expand action efficiency.
limited-turn structure — 12 turns per game with escalating effects and endgame scoring.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is the perfect kind of game to play like late in the evening with maybe some people who aren't into like super heavy games.
I played it 80 times as a result.
Moon Colony Blood Bath. Try and think of a crazier name. You can't.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video ovBi-cXr9Zg Tabletop Turtle top_10_list at 0:24 sentiment: positive

video_pk 8041 · mention_pk 23667

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

feels smart and rewarding due to action chaining
consistency of good decisions across strategies
well-designed upgrade system that rewards planning

Cons

easy to lose track of your own turn when others talk
player attention can suffer during long turns

Thematic elements

dwarven economy, exploration, upgrade chains
Underground dwarven world with tunnels and contracts
sandbox-like progression with robust upgrade loops

Comparison games

Kverna

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Resource management and exploration — reveal tiles, gather resources, and trigger diverse rewards
Upgrade slots / action drafting — upgrading actions yields more powerful turns and chaining effects
worker placement — place workers to dig tunnels, build structures, and navigate a dense labyrinth

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is the kind of game you play when you want to feel smart.
Everything feels like a good decision.
The card play in this game is absolutely stellar.
A lot of little things come together to feel cohesive and satisfying.
You reap what you sew, you know, you need to be strategic and methodical about it.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video U1Ffv3rm9E0 Dice Tower or similar board game review channel general_discussion at 1:42 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Designer known for pieces that interconnect in interesting ways

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Interconnecting pieces — Game pieces that interconnect in interesting ways

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

We're here in Girona, Spain on the walls, the Murals of Girona
I'm super interested in finding out how this double rondelle works
This one maybe is more medium weightish compared to some of the more recent Feld
Tax the Rich looks very interesting
I like the original and so I want to see how they've changed it
One of our favorite games from last year
Excellent game. If you haven't tried it, definitely try it
It's German beer, Pale Beer
He always does very interesting pieces that interconnect in lots of interesting ways
It's set during Operation Freedom Wind, which is the helicopter evacuation at the end of the Vietnam War

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video ZAHnBTELn2E Before You Play top_10_list at 8:41 sentiment: positive

video_pk 6623 · mention_pk 19673

Click to watch at 8:41 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

By prolific medium-heavy game designer
Nice artwork
Thematically interesting
Published by Dieter Games who releases quality games

Cons

100 minute playtime may be long
Designer's previous game Buku was longer than advertised

Thematic elements

Dwarves reclaiming ancestral home from enemies
Mountain dwarf stronghold
Thematic worker placement

Comparison games

Buku

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Dwarf Strength — Dwarf strength determines what you can do with your action
worker placement — Sending dwarves to tools to perform one of four main actions

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

October. We are going to be talking about our top 10 most anticipated games at Essen Spiel
This is the world's largest board game convention held in Essen Germany
We are expecting a baby any day now
They're all clever. Clever in their own way, one way or another
It just sounds very euroy. something that goes right up our alley
I like these kind of games where you're trying to always bring up the rear. I feel like it kind of creates this internal tension and decision-making
It's a little funky, but it works really well
Pretty much if there's a David Turxy Euro game that's coming out, my board and dice, we would love to play it
I am absolutely judging this board game by its cover and by its looks
The looks alone and the fact that it's like a heavy euro has us both really, really intrigued in this one
So anyh who, really looking forward to playing this one. That is our number one, Sanctuary
There are a lot of publishers that you see there that you don't see anywhere else and they're from all over the world

References (from this video)

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Video YEkK498p4YU Roto Runthrough top_25_list at 27:15 sentiment: positive

video_pk 6420 · mention_pk 19006

Click to watch at 27:15 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Heavy, crunchy worker-placement with a Rondell-like feel
Dwarven theming and mine management are well-integrated

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Dwarven industry, monsters, exploration
Fantasy dwarves/underground industry

Comparison games

Ark Nova

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The rules are very simple, but it is crunchy and a lot of fun
Coordination between players in this game goes so far above and beyond what you normally see in this style of co-op game
Two-player only and absolutely fantastic
The conveyor belt action is fantastic. Rondell gameplay is big and crunchy here
This is the hidden gem of the show for many folks

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 29Qsclg92H0 Board Gaming Ramblings general_discussion at 0:08 sentiment: positive

video_pk 6045 · mention_pk 17888

Click to watch at 0:08 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Deep, engaging puzzle with multiple viable victory paths
Personal, non-competitive worker placement creates meaningful timing decisions
Rich track-based progression and potential for strong combos
Rulebook is clear and setup is well-supported; production is solid

Cons

Initial symbol overload can be overwhelming
Some minor production/clarity issues and a couple of setup nuances
Two-player variant has a few ambiguities around relic tracks
Heavy decision space can induce AP for some players

Thematic elements

Dungeon construction and defense through track-based progression and engine-building.
A dungeon/cave environment with dwarven factions, monsters, gates and pillars to control.
Competitive puzzle with layered engine-building and timing.

Comparison games

Trans Galactica

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

monster_and_dungeon_scoring — End-of-round scoring based on monsters present and ongoing dungeon status, plus objective-based scoring.
permanent_abilities — Tradition tiles grant permanent abilities that trigger when certain conditions happen.
resource_management — Collect coins and other resources to trigger instant bonuses and to fuel end-of-round scoring.
track_progression — Three tracks influence capabilities and scoring; progression drives long-term planning and combos.
upgrading_and_building — Forge upgrades improve actions; buildings unlock new capabilities and scoring opportunities.
worker_placement — Each player has their own set of action spots; workers don't compete for spots, but availability shifts as you upgrade and expand.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

this is maybe actually the best game this year
it's a heavy euro
I’m going to give this a nine
the puzzle of the order and then trying to say like, okay, but which of the tools should I get?
I love the building up the scoring because I'm thinking, 'Oh, I really want to get this scoring'

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video ovKEq3LQ3bk Tantrum House top_5_list at 2:28 sentiment: mixed

video_pk 4174 · mention_pk 12228

Click to watch at 2:28 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

strong action-selection mechanic tied to character powers
high amount of content and components

Cons

the rule book can be challenging
board and component complexity may be heavy for some groups

Thematic elements

resource management and exploration with dwarf powers
dwarven mining and exploration on a map
story-driven but largely mechanical in play

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

action selection using dwarfs — select a dwarf with a specific power to perform actions.
mining and exploration — map-based exploration with area control and resource gathering.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This game has a lot going on.
the middle player counts works pretty well for this one.
It's not cooperative. It is too short.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video OOKz8HkGI8o Unknown Channel top_10_list at 9:52 sentiment: positive

video_pk 3783 · mention_pk 11100

Click to watch at 9:52 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

strong thematic integration of dwarfs and mining
engaging action economy with tool-placement
beautiful board with thematic tiles

Cons

perceived heaviness for a dwarven title
some players may prefer more direct conflict

Thematic elements

treasure-hunting and dwarven technology in a mined world
dwarven clans and mine-rich caverns
fantasy/ dwarven hexcrawl with resource management

Comparison games

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

area_control_and_engine_building — Compete for territories and develop engine-based scoring
set collection — Acquire tools to upgrade workers and unlock actions
set_collection_and_upgrade — Acquire tools to upgrade workers and unlock actions
worker placement — Send dwarfs to tool-based actions and upgrades
worker_placement — Send dwarfs to tool-based actions and upgrades

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The coldest hot board game out there right now is Ory. So, Orly is actually a quite heavy Euro game from the looks of it alone, right?
Decorus is the new cooperative and hot board game from Pegasus.
The looks are not that great. Yeah, it it looks unique, but it's a really tough and heavy cooperative board game about hacking.
The Hobbit? Then you know what's coming.
This is a deck building game.
The board is actually very clean, yet at the same time detailed.
The pieces pop. I love the contrast of black and white background and then having colorful pieces.
First and hottest game this month is Vampire Lords, which is right now on Game Found.
Second hottest board game out there right now is The Old King's Crown.
Number three in our hotness list is Tigris and Euphrates.
Fourth hottest board game right now is Covenant.
Fifth hottest game on our list is Terramystica.
Number seven on the hottest games of the month is Tag Team.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video VRXtOrTBANU Maven University top_10_list at 5:45 sentiment: positive

video_pk 3453 · mention_pk 10224

Click to watch at 5:45 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Great theme of dwarves
Nice tile building placement challenge
Interesting risk-reward mechanics typical of Mind Clash spirit
Heavy game with substantial component count
Should be quite popular
Typical modern combo-rich Euro with good timing aspects

Cons

Very thick box with substantial rulebooks

Thematic elements

Dwarves reclaiming mountain
Dwarf fantasy setting
Thematic

Comparison games

Septima

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Risk-reward mechanic — Actions provide benefits but come with risks or future penalties
Tile building placement — Place tiles to build structures
Timing mechanic — Strategic timing of actions affects outcomes
Tracks — Progress tracks that affect gameplay
Worker placement with twist — Send multiple workers or upgrade to different worker types for better actions

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The cards are your actions
It feels like the points really get rolling
You can jump to the head of the queue based on your size and how you muscle in
This is a fairly typical modern combo-icious Euro
Mind Clash games always have these actions where you have to put something in to get something better but it will come with some risk or some penalty
You make your olive oil and sell it out into the market
It's not just a simple matter of playing cards for their points but trying to summon them in the right order
I do like the theme of it. Ants is great
The theme looks amazing. The artwork is by Andrew Bosley. It's about rescuing dragons
Light to midweight Euro engine building type with nice timing to keep game live until end

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video IeCzOUtOKUg Unknown Channel top_10_list at 9:59 sentiment: neutral

video_pk 699 · mention_pk 2024

Click to watch at 9:59 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

neutral

Pros

Dwarven theme is appealing to fans
Potentially tight resource-management decisions

Cons

Very little known about the title
Dwarven trope may not appeal to all

Thematic elements

dwarf workers, mining, pursuit of victory points
dwarven mining world
mythic, dwarven

Comparison games

Eon's Trespass

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

forking/placement optimization — forked placements on the board for resource gain
worker placement — allocate dwarves to mine and action spaces

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I want to sell McDonald's in space.
Seems like a heavy euro. It is, but fun one, fun concept.
We still haven't found out what the sins actually are, but how excited are we to play this game?
Do you want to travel to Paris? Do you want to prove yourself as an artist?
The best game on the list, as I already said.
The hottest game this month is Great C.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Covenant Review - With Graeme

Let's Play... Revenant! | Playthrough Livestream!

Covenant

Covenant Review - With Graeme

Let's Play... Revenant! | Playthrough Livestream!

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