How many players can play Spooktacular?

Spooktacular supports 2 to 5 players.

How long does a game of Spooktacular take?

A typical game of Spooktacular takes approximately 40 minutes.

What are the best video reviews of Spooktacular?

MindForge has curated 38 video reviews of Spooktacular from top board game content creators.

Spooktacular - Board Game

Video Aq-lsKACmlg Ryan and Bethany Board Game Reviews Top List at 7:47 sentiment: positive

video_pk 85123 · mention_pk 217542

Click to watch at 7:47 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Self-described as 'riveting'.
Interesting concept of becoming the monster.
High replayability with 20 monsters.
Appeals to the theme of being the bad guy.

Cons

Unclear on the exact 'shtick' or objective for the monster player.

Thematic elements

Cinematic horror where players become the monster.

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetrical roles — Players become the monster, suggesting asymmetrical gameplay.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I think it's going to be very cool, very immersive.
It sounds like it has all the, you know, all the ingredients to be pretty pretty darn cool.
These card games are like the perfect weight for tons of different situations. They are thinky and they're fun and they're fast and I'm excited for this one.
I want to see the booth. I want to see the booth.
I love bizarre history themes.
Um and while it's unsolvable in the real world, here in this game, you get to solve it. You get to feel clever. You get to be the one that pulls it off.
But I think this game is fantastic. It is already in the running for my top game of 2025.
It is such a clever, smooth, cool card game that plays um you know up to eight players each.
I think this is the kind of game that can kind of transcend the hobby a little bit.
Sign me up. I am ready for this game. I take my money. Yeah, just take it. Just take my money.
So, the fact that I can get all those same feelings in half the time, oh my gosh, this is an absolute home run for me.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video IRsojbPyZ4Q Where There's A Wilz, There's a Play Review at 0:06 sentiment: positive

video_pk 85016 · mention_pk 217112

Click to watch at 0:06 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Beautiful rulebook with clear setup and credits.
Stunning monster minis with bright colors and black screen printing.
Thematic monster backs resembling movie posters.
Solo mode available.
Theatre-themed board and components look fun.

Cons

Some components feel thin (punch boards).
Unclear differences between basic and unique action cards at first glance.
No full rules explanation in the video; viewers will need to read the rulebook.

Thematic elements

Monster movie nostalgia and cinema horror
Inside a movie theater where monsters escape the screen
Thematic, cinematic horror with monster-specific abilities and theater-based exploration

Comparison games

Kiltron 3000 (expansion)
Doombox expansion

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Basic and unique action cards — Monsters use a shared basic action deck plus monster-specific unique action cards.
Player mats per monster — Each monster has its own board detailing setup and turn steps.
Theater-board with rooms — Board depicts a theater with rooms, screens, entry/exit points for escape.
Thematic artwork and tokens — Colorful minis and tokens with poster-like backs.
Variable monster abilities — Monsters have their own abilities and can influence movement and progression.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This game looks really cool.
It's a lighter game, so it just sounds really fun.
Solo mode on the back.
These are absolutely gorgeous movie-poster-looking backs.
I love the colors on them and the black screen printing on them really makes them pop.
There you have Spooktacular by Level 99 Games.
Tell me what you think about the looks of this one.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video _7fcU6P1DpU Grant Lyon Top 10 List at 15:01 sentiment: positive

video_pk 84921 · mention_pk 216683

Click to watch at 15:01 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

great theme and approachable asymmetry
balanced entry into asymmetric design

Cons

balance across many monters may require learning

Thematic elements

asymmetric monster abilities
movie theater with monsters emerging from the screen
fun, thematic, approachable asymmetry

Comparison games

Root

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric play — Many monsters have distinct abilities and win conditions.
shared board with varied actions — Monsters operate on a common board but perform different actions.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

this game uh is a game of mine. It debuted at PAX Unplugged last year, but it's making its Gen Con debut this year.
you use your actual phone camera in the game. There are like phone holders and you slide this around.
Spooktacular has an amazing theme that gets me going.
Flip Tunes might be my most played game of 2025 so far.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video qVn7wvapxd8 Our Family Plays Games Discussion at 19:39 sentiment: positive

video_pk 84878 · mention_pk 216495

Click to watch at 19:39 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

Positive

Pros

People are looking forward to it.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

monsters coming out of movies to eat people
theater

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The beauty of it is what it is.
It's been a busy week, y'all.
No, Monica, they are not called. I wish that was the case, but it's not.
The roommates are to blame, even the semi-ooperative ones.
Moving with board games is not fun. It is not.
It was a game store.
The entire third bedroom of our home is packed with games.
The RPGs came on the scene.
Well just to have the whole board game wagon team you know except for late Nate come over and help us. It was great. It was great.
All these boxes like, "What all those boxes? What kind of strange doing? What kind of strange people? What all them boxes? What is that?"
I I love Albert because when we met him at Kubricon we did as where you live Albert he said where E40 is. I said oh he down he down with the plan.
You thought I was going to miss that. I can only hear. You thought I was going to miss it. You thought it was going to go away just because of move. No.
Some wild news. It's a a crowdfunding shakeup.
Now, the official announcement lands landed is going to land July 24th. Is that We passed it, haven't we?
Now, it's set to unveil an official Doom game.
So, QuakeCon is for Doom fans really and for people who like Quake and other they call them boomer shooters, not because of the age, but because of the explosives and how the game is.
The comments are just wild and you guys are so funny.
In Indiegogo is an OG platform that will benefit from game files up.
Indiegogo has been long forgotten. I hadn't even heard about it in a while.
But see what a lot of people liked about Indiegogo, you didn't have to get all your money cuz Kickstarter was like, if you get your money, you get your, you know, if you get to your your uh your your goal, you get your money. If you don't, but Indiegogo Indog was like, hey, if you get whatever you get, you can take, which was cool.
But it's a danger because if you don't get enough money to make these games, you might get messed over.
Yay to being normal. I'm not really sure what Marty means about yay to being normal. Uh cuz Martney, you're not normal. You're not normal. You're not normal.
And now she's joined some kind of biking club knowing good and well she and I don't need to ride bikes but that's another conversation
Now game said QT is moving only if you look for him nah he go show up cuz you know QT be like hold up he there like what we doing what we doing
Moving with Legos is worse.
Everybody's getting their preparations done for upcoming Stara Month.
Star month is coming.
It's going to be a August going to be tough.
I have measured everything on the man. I've measured every window, every nook and cranny. I think I even measured myself. See if I can fit in the house. I don't know.
Our sign guy made it to the show.
Grant, I thought Stara was the Doom fan.
Mick, please not so loud next week. Seriously, I'm losing some hearing. That's why I have to see my doctor about it. Hopefully, not too serious.
You need to invest in some earplugs.
We got some exciting news, y'all. Some exciting news.
He runs tabletop tonight on his Twitch channel in YouTube and also one of the hosts for Good Morning Society over in Good uh Good Time Society YouTube.
Well, he's gonna be on the ground at Gen Con 2025 as our correspondent OVG correspondent.
So, don't miss that show. That's going to be I think August 10th.
So, don't miss that show. That's going to be I think August 10th. So come for the Gen Con show. We're going to be showing you images and people and what happened at Gen Con 2025.
And I think Reggie was going, wasn't he?
Now, everybody has been talking about this one game.
What? And and see, I didn't know too much about it, but I just want to throw this out there to you that you're going to check it out.
It's been on a lot of people list cuz last week we had our list of anticipated games and then I saw this one was all on a lot of people's list and I'm like wait a minute we got that game.
The movie monsters on the screen came out and now want to eat up everybody.
I'll see. We'll see.
Oh, sorry. Cuz we gonna play this in the new house, y'all. We play this in the new house.
Let's wait till the question. It's how do you make sure you don't misspacking any Legos? Just walk barefoot across your floor and you'll find all
That's his joke.
That'll hurt. That's not a joke. That's not a dad joke. No. No.
The first sponsor we have this week is um No Drama Games.
The Tragedy of Oll is a Shakespeare inspired card game brimming with strategy, treachery, and deceit.
Goats and Goblins is a push your luck romp into a cave on the brink of collapse.
Action cards can boost your raid or sabotage your rivals.
And the goblin with the biggest hall wins.
Be sure to check out the Kickstarter page or visit BA Games' website to learn more. Good luck, goblin herders.
You can kill folk, y'all. You can kill folk.
It's more theatrical than that.
Hold up, Shaky. We going to mess it up, Shaky.
We going to mess it up, Shaky.
Call him Shaky. What's up, Shaky? We going to mess it up a little bit.
It's like the play and it's, you know, it's, you know, if you really want to get into some Shakespearean stuff and have the opportunity to change things, you know, mess up William Shakespeare's stuff.
You know what? That is so true. He said no drama games. This is all drama.
Yes, it's all drama. All drama.
This is a cute little game. I am so proud to say that we had a chance to test this game when Yeah. when it was just being created and we liked it then. We like it a lot more now that it's finished.
Cute little goat cards and goblin cards. And your whole thing is you're going down, you're diving, trying to get more gold and money and stuff.
A lot of push of luck.
It's a push of luck and like how deep, you know, think I think I can go
They can play a card on you. throw uh do two more or three more trying to cave you in.
This is a treacherous mean game and I love it.
Well, it's only it's only mean when people see that they've already got two.
It messed me up, y'all. Amen.
But tragedy, the tragedy of Oll is coming out is coming out on Kickstart. I got backwards, but definitely check out Goats and Goblins at JinCon if you're there.
BA Games is the same publishers that made for uh Forges of Ravenshshire.
And Tony Law Horn's Caddyy Wampers on the cover.
Oh, that's right. It's Tony Law Horn's Caddyy Wampers. Yes. Which is like Tyler Perry's. He put his name out front. Tony did it. I'm more than just a sign guy.
Now, now Tony's game will be at Gen Con 2 at third world. Was that Third World Studios booth? 6:39.
But it's a fun uh party type game for you and your family and friends.
Yeah. So, congratulations to everybody. Blaine said, "Congrats, Tony."
Congratulations to everybody on these new games. No drama games. Sam Stockton from BA Games and Tony Law Horn. We wish you guys so much success.
So, now let's get into the heart of this episode.
Yes. Yes. We just want to answer the questions. We've been uh doing it already.
Now, what about the hobby? Tell them about the hobby.
Tales from the Tabletop, the documentary film that we are in. Yes. Is out on streaming.
You can get it on Prime Video, Amazon Prime, and on uh Apple TV.
We've already gotten people commenting that they looked at it like Roland Reggie said he loved it.
So, check out the hobby Tales from the Tabletop. It's a fun video about board gaming.
And Spooktacular is great for Halloween. I can't wait for it to play for Halloween. But the big one that we love playing for Halloween and we're going to play is Terascape.
My family loves drawing games, even though most of us can't draw. I I feel you, Albert.
But but that's what makes it fun. Yes, it does.
It was so much fun. We played at BGG Spring where they they featured all the Spar nominees and it was a fun game.
But the thing with that one, this lady here cannot draw.
And she said, "Oh, that's a a bouquet."
A bouquet of what? Okay. So, the thing with that particular game, you have a board with a bunch of dots on it, and you got to draw whatever your card tells you within the parameters of the dots.
It was really weird what she made. It was really weird. Oh, it's ask Oh. Oh. Oh. So, it was really, really weird. Very weird.
All right. So, let's see. What's What's our first question?
How's the move going? Are you moving to a bigger place?
Uh, the move is going. We're almost done. Yes, we're moving to a bigger place.
And like I said, you know, Blaine, we I've measured everything. I've measured my head too, my body. I've measured everything cuz it's a bigger place. And that means Staller's going to spend a lot more money trying to fill that place cuz she is looking at we even looking at Wayfair and some coming from Wayfair already.
Wayfair. You've got just what I need.
Moving is not cheap. It's not fun.
Not fun. and and but I think you know once we get settled we'll be happy. But the main thing is I can get the games away from my living space.
They can get out the games y'all. They can get out of the closets. They can get away from the living room, dining room. Just get them out of I told Mick no games upstairs. Not one.
They can stay downstairs in the game.
See there? There we go. See that?
Yeah. We we the upstairs is my domain. Downstairs is the games and his his roommates and that's where our studio will be. But the main thing is I'll have a space.
Cuz I was feeling really claustrophobic. The games were really everywhere.
They were coming at us.
They were just everywhere. So they were talking to us every day.
Arwin's getting married, y'all. Congratulations.
Okay. All right. So, we were just talking about Legos.
Yes, we have. We have.
As you were packing your games to move, did you als uh did you also do a culling of games at the same time?
Well, here's the deal. I I have a book. Well, every box has been numbered. Every bo every box is numbered from one to I think one to 56.
And in each box, I I did like a list. I wrote down what was in the box. And some of those uh games on the list in the in the tablet got a star. It's not a good star. It's not a good star.
Yeah. We We'll see if they finally get out. It's not a good star, but yeah. No. Yeah, we we'll see.
It's not a good star, y'all. That star might be goodbye.
Goodbye. So, that star Goodbye.
Some of them couldn't even fit in boxes like the Gloom Havens.
Yeah. Some of them couldn't even fit.
It just you just got to take them over cuz it's just they were just too like, you know, the uh Everdale uh the Everddale uh you know, coffin. Yes. You know, we had to take that over there.
Yeah. Just because it take up too much space in the box, you know, can't get over there. You know, we had to do that one.
Has Mick watched any Hallmark movies to celebrate Christmas in July?
No Ed I don't do that Ed. But the one thing in July they let you know all the TV stations Lifetime BET you know Hallmark they let you know what what shows are getting ready for Christmas.
So I do watch out and see what list I need to be making and see what I need to be ready for for Christmas season for my movies.
So they do do that. I don't watch any cuz I wait for the holidays that, you know, I get prepared, but I get prepared now. So, I'm getting ready.
We're lucky that at least I'm lucky that he's not doing the Christmas and July movies. Thank goodness cuz we got to deal with it during the holiday season.
Unfortunately, I'm not bothering her. Thank goodness.
And I'm not looking at nothing. I'm waiting cuz it it just feels kind of out of whack if you're looking at Christmas stuff during the summer. I don't do that. I wait. I wait.
The Hawaiian Contingent is here.
Oh, if you had a surprise talent show, what would your performances be?
I think me rapping. No, I think me rapping to a a funky beat. Funkin beat. We don't want to see that.
Rapping to the funky beat. I think that I would try that.
I I would try singing.
Well, you could you got that in the bag.
That's not fair. You got that in the bag.
I would sing. That's what I would cuz you've done that.
Yeah, but I don't sing like I used to
Albert said he got to see the hobby. Good. Thank you, Albert. I'm so happy you had a chance to see it.
Terescape is something that I would get. Yes. Yeah. Matthew, you would like Terrace Skate. You would like Terrace Skate. It is a great game.
Love Shakespeare, so I have to get Oll. Yeah.
I know you would like this game and it would be fun if we could all play it together. I think we would really get into Yeah.
Michael and Haley, what fictional world would you want to live in?
Ooh. Ooh. Ooh. That's Oh, wow. Fictional.
Ooh. Ooh. Well, I know which one I don't want to live in, and that's 40K. I don't live 40k. That's That's a dark time. Not cool. So, I don't want to live there.
But to Oh, you know where I would like to live? Where? Creature Comfort.
What? You going to be an animal? KTVG. Creature Comfort.
You gonna be a little animal for the winter.
I'll be there getting ready for the winner. Telling those kids, "Come on, get ready for the winter, little kids. Stop playing around trying to do some partying and come on. Bring your little butt in here and let's play some and and stop playing and let's get ready for the winner."
I would go to Barbie World.
What? The Barbie movie. That's a
But they might have a revolution. It might be all messed up.
What I loved about the Barbie movie, which I really, really liked it. What is that? They had no cares in the world. They just got up. They wore life's pretty clothes.
You You finally forced me to see that.
They drive nice cars. They play at the beach. They have barbecues. You get to have a Barbie house. I mean, yeah. That's why I'm going to Barbie World.
But see, you made me force me to see that. And it was kind of crazy. It was good. It was It was crazy.
I was like, "What in the world am I looking at?"
It was fun. I I would go to Barbies World, but they had a revolution. It was bad. But but the Barbies come out on top and head. Once they put the kids back in their place, the kids kids back in their place. Once they got the kids back in their place, the Barbies took over.
In a world run by women. It's a peaceful world.
Why you still on my Halloween outfit?
Make the rapping, man. I love it.
He's still my
Oh my god. Uh uh. Let's see. No. the better age of Sigma, right? No, it's still bad. It's still bad. Oh. Oh, we had another one. Oh, hi Lisa. Welcome to the show. Uh, will you be at Orca Con in January?
We don't know. We don't know. We don't know. We haven't got invited yet. We haven't got invited. They'll use it. Oh, probably.
Yeah, more than likely. They'll probably get us an invitation out in a few months. Uh, we had another comment. Uh, where are we? Ivan.
Okay, Marty. Marty said, "Is there a solo version for Goats and Goblins?"
Uh, no.
I don't think so. Uh, Sam, if you're still on the If you're in there, you better get us a solo version.
You got somebody asking about Goats and goblins. Marty, you'll love that one, too.
Has the uh has the idea of multiple game days, many still on hold? And if so, any idea when it might get uh it might start getting some thought of creation that's in that's in motion.
Yes, Mimi. Um we have been meeting uh we've been partnering with the board game wagon. Yes. And we have had some meetings. We may have something ready for 2026. May uh we are working on some ideas right now. And if we can get everything down by the end of maybe August or so. We'll have some announcements. But yes, Mimi, we are working on
You reminded me of an Italian couple I met once. They lived in a board game library that happened to be their house. Games and comics everywhere except the kitchen. That's That's how we were living.
That's how we were living. That's why we're moving.
That's why we're moving. That's how we mean. You walk into your closet, there's board games. They were everywhere. Everywhere in our closets. Everywhere. We had to go. Had to go.
Oh, Dean and I know each other uh other and game regularly together. Hey, that's cool.
That is awesome. That's cool. That is really cool.
Blaine, is there a category of game type or mechanism that you think is under represented in your collection? In mine is dexterity games. I think in ours is is rolling rights because
rolling rights and also horror games is not well represented because
horror horror mechanism horror well oh mechanism that's a theme yeah that's a theme so mechanism well everybody knows
co-op We don't have many co-ops in our collection. We don't have P pandemic. Pandemic is not in our collection.
We have several semi-ooperative games though.
We don't have no semiarpet. We don't have no semi-cooperative games.
Semi-ooperative games.
We don't have we don't have no semicoop. But we don't have pandemic. We only got one welcome to, you know, the big ones. Those are the big kinds that everybody floats to. We don't. We just have one. Welcome to uh you now. Uh I think was that uh just a few have gotten through the net of no co-op games. A few have slipped through. So we're we're kind of we're kind of sim kind of kind of kind of building toward them.
Say semi-ooperative. No, it's not semi. None of them are semi. None
We are moving every day. I'm trying my best not to do too much work. Trying to save my knees until I go to the doctor on Friday.
So, you're playing the part of a a movie monster to go find people and eat them up.
This is a really interesting game. Again, if you like theatrical stuff and you love you like drama, try this because it it you know they call no drama games, but it's drama in here.
It's a push of luck romp into a cave on the brink of collapse.
This is a treacherous mean game. And I love it.
You you pair up and then they have to sketch half of an image from two words and see if uh Match them. Yeah. Trying to try to guess the matchup of the two objects.
The tariffs are still an issue. The tariffs are still crazy and it's still affecting, you know, our industry.
Co-op is when people are working together against the game. Against the game. Yes. Semicoop is when people make their own decisions and then they collaborate with some of their other opponents or teammates in order to win the game, but you're able to make your own decisions.
Who runs the world? Girls. That's right, Matthew Rose. Who? The Barbie world. Girls. It's Yes, Barbie world.
Yeah, the move is going. We're almost done. Yes, we're moving to a bigger place. As we said before, the roommates just took over.
Nutcrackers stay. They stay. We don't get rid of nutcrackers.

References (from this video)

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Video jQsF9PM8ha4 Board Game Buzzz Gen Con Preview at 36:20 sentiment: positive

video_pk 84871 · mention_pk 216448

Click to watch at 36:20 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

Highly positive

Pros

Exciting theme
Potential for asymmetry
Thematic immersion
Retro vibes

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Monsters released from movie screens to terrify and devour moviegoers.
Halloween night in 1968 during a film festival amidst a thunderstorm.
Thematic storytelling

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric Player Powers — Mentioned as a possibility: 'I might be wrong, but I thought that there was a little bit of asymmetry in regards to the monsters behave and act in different ways.'
Turn order play — Played 'over a series of rounds where players perform the steps on their monsters in turn order.'

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Gen Con is the biggest board game convention in America.
I literally had over 70 that I had saved.
In Spooktacular, you are becoming the monsters, I believe, that are haunting the people who are going to the movie theaters and like watching your movie.
As one of those monsters, you are now free to wreak havoc. Terrify and devour unsuspecting movie goers in a race to become the most terrifying monster of all time.
This is Tea Witches. Okay, for the OP games, I have been so excited for this one. I'm so nervous that I'm going to play it and it's going to be meh or all right because I've like built it up so much in my head.
Everything about this game just screams me and I need it.
I'm so sad that I'm not going to Gen Con.
Like I have FOMO so

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video oZgQjPzYCGE Ryan and Bethany Board Game Reviews Event Coverage at 3:44 sentiment: positive

video_pk 84837 · mention_pk 216260

Click to watch at 3:44 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Lots of replayability
Nice wooden bits

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Monsters

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Variable player powers — Each monster plays differently, suggesting unique abilities or playstyles for each.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

So, it's going to be a little bit cooler this Shen Con. In the past, it's been very, very hot. So, hopefully it's cooler and nice so I don't get all sweaty and weird, which is a default setting of mine. So, sweaty and weird.
This is a quick picture of everybody.
We are officially in the will call line getting a few tickets that we hadn't didn't have a chance to ship to us. It's going really fast today. I feel it's going to be a lot slower on future days, but yeah, things are kicking off real soon here.
It is bright. It is colorful and it is air conditioned.
We are going to be getting ready to play sanctuary and I'm pretty excited cuz we're at an all girls table. So that's going to be awesome.
So, we got we just got done playing a playthrough of Sanctuary, which is a lighter version of Ark Nova.
This is one of the games that was on my top 10 that I was excited to see at Gen Con.
This is a Viking route from Ari's games.
We really enjoy this game. We don't get to play it nearly as much as we want to, but Ryan does play it a lot with the girls um which is fun and they get to like build decks together and then they like fight each other on it. So that's really fun, too. So looking forward to it.
I had more fun because of the time we spent together.
If you like any of the style of this game visually, it is 100% him. He's the guy who drew the pictures. He's the guy who wrote the story.
All right, guys. Uh, Gen Con day one is officially in the books. And tomorrow, stay tuned for day two.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video phfKCkmJs3A Man vs Meeple Analysis at 11:47 sentiment: positive

video_pk 84731 · mention_pk 215749

Click to watch at 11:47 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

20 unique monsters.
Quick playtime (45-60 minutes).
Simple ruleset.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Monsters devouring and scaring kids.
Movie theater

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Unique Player Powers — each character almost the fun of the game is trying a new character

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I don't want to make elevators going up and going down.
It is basically mascot racing like the you go to the baseball game, they got the you know the big wiener guy.
If you need something just super fun for a party, it I'll be buying it for sure. It's it's it the production value is amazing. So much fun. I highly highly recommend this game.
So it almost feels
I had as much fun playing it as I did teaching it.
It almost feels like programming it.
They call it an auto battler uh after sort of the video games that are auto battlers but tag team.
It had the vibes of flip seven, but not the mechanics. You're rolling dice and there's all these different denominations of money
The rub is that if you haven't banked your money... you bust and you lose all your unbanked money.
So, it definitely I missed this. This is that's interesting.
and it was definitely if you like playing flip 7, you'll like this sort of game. There's a lot of these gambly, you know, have a night with hot streak, flip seven and rolly when it comes out. Uh it was just a blast.
And that I think speaks to why the trend not only at Gen Con, but the trend in the hobby is going towards more of those types of it's it's at least definitely the trend in my personal taste.

References (from this video)

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Video FGgTm4ZuXcc Where There's A Wilz, There's a Play Discussion at 28:30 sentiment: positive

video_pk 84332 · mention_pk 214233

Click to watch at 28:30 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

highly thematic with gorgeous artwork
lots of variability with 20 monsters
strong box presentation and components

Cons

theme-heavy; may require a crowd familiar with horror media

Thematic elements

movie monster mayhem, theater setting
1986 film-night spooktacular festival with monsters released from the screen
asymmetric monster abilities; cinematic homage

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric player boards — play as one of 20 movie monsters with unique abilities.
Asymmetric Player Powers — play as one of 20 movie monsters with unique abilities.
turn-based rounds with theater interaction — players perform standard monster-themed turns (cards, guests, spooking, devouring).
visual/monstrous artwork — thematic and collectible visual presentation.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I'm Ian, your makeupy casual gamer.
This is now October of 2025. And this month's theme is going to be spooky season.
The Haunted Mansion there's the hitchhiking ghosts who follow you home and they may spell your doom in the end.
the box is actually the dice tower
basically living out that first movie
the rules as written you can kind of manipulate into cheating but you can just play the spirit of the game
everything about this game is just super thematic
the artwork is absolutely fabulous. I mean, you can tell by the cover. The cover of this is just gorgeous
you can play as different monster and they're going to play differently

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video FpFshWvpla8 Where There's A Wilz, There's a Play Review at 0:08 sentiment: mixed

video_pk 84113 · mention_pk 213357

Click to watch at 0:08 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

strong thematic integration with film monster theme and original posters
gorgeous component art and 20 unique monsters
accessible rules with minimal jargon
deep replayability through asymmetry and multiple difficulty levels
solo mode via Kiltron 3000 AI
player aids on boards that summarize setup and abilities

Cons

learning curve from asymmetry and many monsters
balanced issues where some monsters feel stronger than others
colorblind accessibility issues with colored meeples and board markers
potential fatigue after playing many monsters due to similar core actions
score tokens can be confusing at higher player counts due to matching numbers

Thematic elements

classic movie monsters competing to scare guests and score points by spooking and devouring visitors
Be movie monster cinema with classic film posters and monsters escaping the screen
cinematic, poster-driven, tongue-in-cheek horror

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

devour — eat guests to score points and use abilities
draw — draw back up to three cards to refill your hand
Drawing — draw back up to three cards to refill your hand
launch — special ability of your chosen monster that interacts with the board/rooms and can chain actions
Move — move your monster or guests between rooms
play a card — each turn you play one card from your hand to perform actions
Spook — in a room, you spook all visitors in that room through every door there are; scoring points for each visitor spooked

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Spooktacular is a highly theme driven accessible asymmetric monster game that shines when you want to have fun and flavor
There is not a lot of deep strategy in this game; it's more about theme and variety
the theme is not for everyone; if you dislike monster-vs-monster chaotic mechanics this might be gimmicky
the art and posters are fantabulous
the Kiltron 3000 AI is really easy to run

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video VidDkpBgcWI Board Games UnLocked Top List at 12:51 sentiment: positive

video_pk 83481 · mention_pk 210419

Click to watch at 12:51 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

It was surprisingly good.
All the monsters are radically unique.
It's perfect for a large group and extremely simple to learn.
You're not missing out on anything if you didn't get the Kickstarter version.

Cons

Level 99 Games needs to work on their graphic design.
It could be enhanced with more maps.

Thematic elements

B-movie horror monsters

Comparison games

Bullet
BattleCon
Super Pixel Tactics

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Deck Building — Each player starts with the same five cards, but gets new cards based on the monster they pick.
monster abilities — Monsters have unique abilities that come in based off how many were in their discard pile.
Player Board — Player boards detail everything about the monster, including turn order and keywords.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Grim Coven is an absolute amazing boss battler.
This is a genre that I just absolutely love. It is so good.
the stories that they tell are like nothing that we've seen, you know, and just just knowing that
that's Bonkers the for foresight and thought that had to go into designing this.
This just brings it into the into the Elder Scrolls universe.
it makes it a much more in my mind deeper experience than like a Too Many Bones cuz it's got a it's like a campaign game.
This game is a masterpiece in its design.
This is the epitome of where exploration RPG and campaign games really need to be.
It was a no-brainer at this case. I knew what my number one and number two were, you know, pretty pretty easily.

References (from this video)

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Video 2ng5GBgyj5w Board Games UnLocked Top List at 37:13:20 sentiment: positive

video_pk 83133 · mention_pk 208995

Click to watch at 37:13:20 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Very interesting theme
Absolute blast to play
Great for spooky season
Requires 4+ players for best experience
20 unique factions/movie titles
Streamlined and clean gameplay
Quick playtime
Tons of variety from faction combinations

Cons

Dated graphic design/board art
Only one board, limiting replayability for some

Thematic elements

B-movie horror
B-movie horror
Scenario-based

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Area Control — Placing meeples on board spaces.
Hand Management — Managing cards on your player board for actions and unique abilities.
Set Collection — Gathering different colored meeples to earn tickets (points).
Variable player powers — There are 20 unique factions/movie titles that play radically different.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's like you look at it and you're like, I remember this being really good, but man, do I not want to relearn.
It's been one of those things I just haven't gotten to the table much.
So, there's 30. Okay. So, 30. There's 30 total factions.
It's a crunchier game for a card game.
It's almost a four for a deck building game. I mean, that's pretty stout.
It's got this sense of discovery, you know, you're moving to different spots on the board, uncovering new things, finding artifacts.
The artwork is just gorgeous, and the components feel really good.
It's a game that really pulls you in with its theme.
You're building up your deck, but you're also exploring and managing resources.
It's just such a satisfying engine builder.
Every game feels different because of the cards you draw.
Watching the planet change is really cool.
The amount of strategic depth is just immense.

References (from this video)

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Video sx1hPU02l78 One Stop Co-op Shop Discussion at 3:16 sentiment: mixed

video_pk 82024 · mention_pk 205725

Click to watch at 3:16 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

Great variety of monsters and casual play

Cons

Gameplay felt somewhat repetitive; solo mode limited

Thematic elements

scaring guests and monsters
monster-faction themed party game

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Faction variety — different factions with unique abilities
solo mode vs other monster — solo mode against a single monster

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I love the variety in the modules.
This is one of their great ones where you have tons of different factions to try out.
Santorini with the Riddle of the Sphinx expansion.
The big negative here is that Santorini by itself you got to buy; then you also have to buy the expansion and it is getting a bit expensive.
I still really like Veil of Eternity, but it didn't fit with my game groups.
Earthborne Rangers has some things that puts it above Arkham and some things that puts it below for my taste.

References (from this video)

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Video ix59gmSdBKI Our Family Plays Games Game Reviews at 1:08:30 sentiment: positive

video_pk 81942 · mention_pk 205112

Click to watch at 1:08:30 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

very positive

Pros

packed with content and variety
great for replay with many monsters

Cons

learning curve due to many powers

Thematic elements

Area movement, set collection, variable powers
Halloween monsters festival
theatrical, chaotic fun

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Area Movement — move monsters around a festival stage to score
Asymmetric Player Powers — different monster abilities create asymmetry
Variable Powers — different monster abilities create asymmetry

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

EASTER. SEE, I DIDN'T TELL YOU SEE THAT AT THE END? I just said Easter.
Galactic Cruise is a wonderful game. I love it. LOVE IT.
I definitely endorse it. I give it a BIG FIVE.
It's a mean game, but mean in a fun way.
This is a five for Rebel Princess. Must have, must play.

References (from this video)

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Video -GxG16iKdq8 The Dice Tower Top List at 19:50 sentiment: positive

video_pk 81303 · mention_pk 201034

Click to watch at 19:50 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Plays in about an hour.
Good theming.
Good game experience.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Horror movie monsters

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Area Control — and then you move these guys around, do area control, kill kill all the the people coming to see these movies.
Deck Building — you just have your own little deck and you just play through that deck of cards

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's tricky, right? Cuz you can't just go by what Board Game Geek says either.
You know, you got to pick it up.
I really like that. I think it's a fantastic game. It definitely one that people are sleeping on.
Baked in banter, okay.
It's just got a really nice forward momentum.
This game doesn't have banter, though the scoring might take a bit. But I think played at a reasonable pace, this game lasts close to an hour.
This is just a game that's a joy to teach, to play.
If you get to six gems, whatever it is, you win. It's a race.
It has a nice nice demanding sort of feel on the player. You you need to think carefully about what you're doing.
This is Ra, my favorite game of all time.
I think that Reiner Knizia, this is his wheelhouse is hour-long games that feel like a full experience.
it's you can knock this out in 60 and get a board game experience with highs and lows and drama and superheroes and all of that jazz.
Neta-Tete a L'air is just one of those games that just it feels so good how quickly this game plays.
We're We're halfway done already?

References (from this video)

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Video 1oj1jK1W-L4 The Dice Tower Top List at 0:29 sentiment: positive

video_pk 80151 · mention_pk 194623

Click to watch at 0:29 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Favorite game played today.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Scary

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

My favorite game I played today was Spooktacular.
The best game I played today is a classic that is Last Bastion right here, the remake of Ghost Stories.
The best game I played today was Ready Set Bet, the new big giant deluxe version of it.
But I just had a a blast with this horse racing game.
I'm Tom Vassal from Dice Tower East 2026.

References (from this video)

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Video wzyBY4InfxQ Top List at 4:23 sentiment: positive

video_pk 79862 · mention_pk 193444

Click to watch at 4:23 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Really fun
Really clever game
Plays quickly
Approachable

Cons

none

Thematic elements

movie monsters come to life trying to devour movie theater attendees
movie theater

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetrical — They are all asymmetrical and they have different win conditions, different powers.
Card Play — You're playing cards to take actions.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is my top 10 horror themed games.
Board games can't really evoke horror very well.
Final Girl is another modular game where you're going to choose a final girl, which is a slasher movie trope.
Nemesis is this idea of you are characters that wake up on a ship through cryo after cryosleep.
This one really does evoke some sense of dread, right? Some sense of anything can happen at any time.
Just a really really great the most cinematic board game probably I've ever played.

References (from this video)

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Video TGEX8TfDLII Meeple University Rules Teach

video_pk 69893 · mention_pk 166782

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

none

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

the game plays one to five players
you can move to adjacent room through the door
spook sending guests away to adjacent room through each door
earning one point per guest
devour taking the guests away to your collection
these basic actions are fun but where the most fun comes from is each player's special abilities
the components reached in this video are prototype
check out spook Taca project page I'll put the link in the description below

References (from this video)

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Video KGa5SmqQny0 Playthrough at 0:00 sentiment: positive

video_pk 68002 · mention_pk 164323

Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Fun quick game
Straightforward solo mode with Doom Box
Variety of monsters (20 total)

Cons

Host lost the solo game

Thematic elements

monsters devouring and scaring guests
haunted movie theater

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

AI Opponent — The game uses a Killtron AI for solo play.
Area Movement — Players move their monster figure between rooms in the movie theater.
Deck Building — Players have their own deck of cards, with basic cards and unique monster cards.
player powers — Each player controls a different monster with their own unique board and deck of cards.
Set Collection — Players collect sets of guest meeples of different colors to gain tickets (victory points).
Track Advancement — Players advance cassettes on tracks which trigger abilities.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Special thanks to Mike Kelly for help with the Killtron AI.
You both start with 10 points and either when one monster reaches 50 points or when these four tickets have been taken, it's two times the number of players.
The Killtron AI is going to start in the room with the most doors and the most guests, which is right here.
There are 20 different monsters in the game, but you need to use the Killtron AI to play solo, so you can only play with 19 of them.
So, Kiltron has to move and you ignore any play a card or draw a card effects on their cards because they're just always resolving these three.
And every single guest that gets sent through a door is going to earn Kiltron one point.
So, that gets them four points. And then, yeah, they're going to devour uh purple, yellow, blue.
So, they're down to 37 and I'm up to 32. So, I'm only five behind them and I got an extra ticket.
And by the way, if I devour a full set, I just get five points. So the ticket doesn't matter anymore.
So, I'm three ahead. Unless their tickets just kick the butt of mine, then we'll be okay.
Well, despite that sad ending there. That was a fun quick game.

References (from this video)

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Video 9bRYhXWGHM4 Review at 0:05 sentiment: positive

video_pk 68001 · mention_pk 164322

Click to watch at 0:05 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Variety of monsters offers significant replayability and experimentation.
Core card play is fun and interesting without being overly complicated.
Movement and guest mechanics create an engaging tactical puzzle.
Fabulous art style.
Straightforward enough for kids but offers combos and tactical options.
Works well in multiplayer.

Cons

Hidden scoring can be polarizing and frustrating for some players.
Ambiguities in solo bot rules in some edge cases.
Only one faction is supported for the solo bot.
Solo bot can feel swingy as it doesn't track player progress.
Luck of the draw can sometimes limit options.
Doesn't shine as brightly in solo play compared to multiplayer.

Thematic elements

players control horrific monsters trying to spook guests for points
a haunted theater

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Bot AI — A solo bot uses three piles of cards (movement, unique actions, scoring) to simulate an opponent.
Card Play — Players have a hand of cards and play one per turn, with some allowing for chaining actions. Deciding when to play strong cards is key.
hidden scoring — Tickets are kept face down and their point values are revealed at the end of the game.
Set Collection — Players earn points by eating guests to form sets of colors.
Variable player powers — Each player controls a different horrific monster with their own unique cards and board.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

My number five point, which is the least important of the five, but still important, or I wouldn't mention it, is the scoring and particularly the tickets in the game.
My number four point, which is another mix, is the bot itself.
My number three point, which is a pro with caveats, is the core card play in the game.
And finally, my number one, a full-on pro, most important thing to know about the game, and this is kind of an obvious one, that's the monsters themselves, because they are so varied.

References (from this video)

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Video 5wQ_Aa4Kzio Review at 0:16 sentiment: positive

video_pk 67258 · mention_pk 163224

Click to watch at 0:16 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Unique and fun theme that nails the character vibes.
Pretty unique gameplay with B horror movie theme.
Delightful gameplay and mechanics.
Quick playtime for its depth, around an hour even with four players.
Characters play differently and all information is on the player sheet, making it easy to learn.
High variety and replayability due to 20 unique characters.
Retail version provides all 20 characters, no missing out compared to Kickstarter.
Cost-effective and a perfect game for October/spooky themes.
Characters are thematic enough to understand their role.

Cons

The game board itself doesn't look that fun.
Ticket values can be swingy, leading to potential point disparities.
Only comes with one map, and different map layouts could favor certain monsters.
While characters are thematic, the overall movie theater theme is loose.

Thematic elements

B horror movies
B horror movies

Comparison games

BattleCon
Dead by Daylight
Bullet
Root
Scythe
Pixel Tactics
Super Pixel Tactics
Exceed
Argent
Super Train
Imperium

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric Player Powers — Each character has unique powers and starting cards, leading to different playstyles.
End game trigger — The game ends when a player reaches 50 victory points or when a certain number of tickets are drawn.
Point to Point Movement — Moving meeples around a board to different rooms.
Set Collection — Moving meeples to collect sets for victory points.
Variable Player Decks — Players start with a different number of unique cards based on their character, in addition to shared basic cards.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

We need to start doing vibe checks with board games.
The strength of this game is clearly it's 20 different uh different characters.
I want Spookacular 2: Electric Bugaloo.
Level 99 is a great company that does support their stuff.

References (from this video)

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Video 2MVG-Cz2Pkw Board Game Buzz Top 10 List at 19:56 sentiment: positive

video_pk 66228 · mention_pk 161059

Click to watch at 19:56 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

strong, varied monster roster
thematic and cinematic feel

Cons

potentially simple core mechanics

Thematic elements

horror movie theater with multiple monsters
movie theater haunted by monsters
thematic, cinematic

Comparison games

Other horror-themed games

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

board influence / movement — move around theater to spook guests; end condition tied to spooking
Monster selection — choose among many monsters, each with unique play styles

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

it's chaos and it's zany and it's just fun.
If you're looking for kind of a zany crazy party betting racing game I would definitely definitely check this one out.
The story itself is very impressive in this game.
I truly fell in love with Finsspan.
I loved the haunted theme.
I just fell in love with this world.

References (from this video)

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Video xM8QnPbb-Us Hungry Gamer Preview at 0:08 sentiment: positive

video_pk 62420 · mention_pk 154946

Click to watch at 0:08 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Easy entry and quick to teach
Strong theme and thematic execution without being overly gross
Meeple design and components are enjoyable
Fast gameplay, especially in solo mode
Good replayability and faction interaction
Solid AI integration for solo/multiplayer balance

Cons

Horror theme may not appeal to everyone
Not a true solo experience yet (only one simple AI, limited solo variety)
Factions are not as radically asymmetric as some other games (less like Root, more like Merchant's Cove)
Prototype phase means components/board may change before final release

Thematic elements

Asymmetric monster capture/defense within a cinematic setting
Movie theater where classic movie monsters come to life
Card-driven, faction-based action with thematic monster abilities

Comparison games

Root
Merchant's Cove
Vast: The Mysterious Manor

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

asymmetric faction play — Each monster has its own unique setup, abilities, and victory conditions, creating distinct playstyles per faction.
Card-based action deck (MASH, Search, Haunt, Spook, Jump Scare, Consume, Abduct, etc.) — Players build and use action cards to move monsters, spawn/consume guests, and trigger special abilities.
Devour and ticket system — Players devour guests to earn color tokens and eventually turn them in for tickets to score points.
endgame triggers — The game ends when a player crosses a point threshold (50p) or when all tickets are claimed.
Solo AI (Killtron bot) — A simple solo mode using a Killtron bot with decks to simulate AI opponents; easy to integrate into multiplayer.
Spook mechanics — Spook effects cause guests in rooms to be scared away via doors, earning points.
Tile/board interaction and movement — Monsters are placed in rooms and can move via card effects, triggering chain interactions.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

this is an asymmetric game where each player takes on a classic movie monster
the monsters are kind of coming to life and they're eating these patrons
it's a relatively simple game you're going to play until someone either crosses the 50p point threshold and that will trigger the endgame or until all of the tickets have been claimed
the AI to play solo mode or to add the killtron bot into a multiplayer game is very easy to operate
the meeples are a blast I think they're great I love the meeples in the game
it's got a strong theme it does this kind of horror movie theme
the game plays fast especially if you're playing the solo mode it just it's lightning quick
I was really pleasantly pleasantly surprised by this
not a solo game as is because there's only one AI and it's very simple

References (from this video)

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Video F5PCBB3grM0 Totally Tabled Top List at 6:01 sentiment: mixed

video_pk 41978 · mention_pk 127353

Click to watch at 6:01 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

Strong thematic flavor and high replayability via asymmetry
Goofy, thematic presentation with innovative ideas

Cons

Asymmetry can be hard to learn
Would be more appealing as a cooperative experience

Thematic elements

Goofy, monster-themed competition with film festival flair
A Halloween film festival in 1986
Asymmetrical gameplay with 20 distinct monsters

Comparison games

Root

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetrical play — Each monster has a unique play style and abilities
theater/area movement and spooking — Move around the theater to spook and devour moviegoers using monster-specific abilities

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The central board represents different regions of your reserve, which is dominated by a massive mountain.
This is a reverse drafting mechanism, which basically means you assign cards for other players rather than yourself.
I have no idea [how it will play solo].
The game includes a robust solo mode for peaceful solitary sessions.
Think of asymmetrical games like Root.
The theme is terrifically goofy, and Level 99 Games has a solid track record of bringing themes to life with innovative ideas.
I do love bag building as a mechanism, and I definitely trust Paul Denan to do that, right?
This sounds like a surprising take on the boring old train theme.
The illustrations by Rich Moyer are super charming and silly.

References (from this video)

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Video z5Tj4weOs4M Board Game Hangover Discussion at 12:20 sentiment: positive

video_pk 40991 · mention_pk 124392

Click to watch at 12:20 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

dense horror/pulp vibe with light rules

Cons

thematic depth may be lighter

Thematic elements

horror/monsters in a party game
ghostly Halloween-themed setting
light, fun, accessible

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

area/score-based play — ghosts try to maximize score by scaring meeples

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I do it from time to time. So, it's not that bad.
At least not without tears, blood, and a lot of sweat.
You will only be able to find out if you watch this video.
Bear trap. Just write bear trap.

References (from this video)

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Video ER_JbXHC6qc The Dice Tower Top 10 List at 3:02 sentiment: positive

video_pk 36913 · mention_pk 110850

Click to watch at 3:02 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Very strong, immersive theming
Engaging asymmetry and thematic flavor

Cons

Thematic emphasis may overpower mechanical depth for some players

Thematic elements

horror / theater intrusion
Movie theater where monsters come to life and roam the seats
thematic, cinematic

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

action sequencing — Players perform actions to spook and scare in a dynamic theater-scape.
asymmetric roles — Each player controls a different character/role with unique actions in a haunted theater setting.
Asymmetric Teams — Each player controls a different character/role with unique actions in a haunted theater setting.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I think that these are my 10 favorite wild, cool, strange, or otherwise delightful themes of games from 2025.
Don't you hate it when you're fighting in World War II and you don't realize that the war has been over for over 20some years and you're still fighting it?
Why? So we could steal the dinosaurs and bring them on home. Why? To make our cards score more points.

References (from this video)

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Video uhOvPpK3aYg The Dice Tower Top 10 List at 3:05 sentiment: positive

video_pk 35572 · mention_pk 106295

Click to watch at 3:05 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Variety of characters
Fun theme with recognizable horror IPs

Cons

Varying power levels between characters may affect balance

Thematic elements

Slasher villains and monsters from pop culture
Horror-themed escapades with iconic monsters
Theme-forward, character-driven

Comparison games

Horrified
Halloween Horror Nights (theme)

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric character power — Players select from 25 different playable characters with unique abilities.
Asymmetric Player Powers — Players select from 25 different playable characters with unique abilities.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Vanish is a perfect 10 game.
It's a dead language. Who knows? Children of the Sun.
This is Metal Gear Solid, and it finally came out, and oh my gosh, it's so good.
Pergola is a beautiful little game where you're making a little pergola, a garden, right?

References (from this video)

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Video uZbGl-GONM0 Dice Tower Top 10 List at 9:26 sentiment: positive

video_pk 34752 · mention_pk 103605

Click to watch at 9:26 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Rich theme that nails the horror aesthetic
Diverse monster roster with escalating challenge
Fast and chaotic fun for groups

Cons

none

Thematic elements

monster chases and devouring victims
80s cheesy horror movie ambiance with monsters leaving the screen
fast, chaotic mayhem with varied monster abilities

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

genre homage artwork — 80s horror movie aesthetic enhances theme
high tempo chaos — fast rounds with quick decisions and mayhem
Modular Board — each monster plays differently and scales in challenge
modular monsters with varying difficulty — each monster plays differently and scales in challenge

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Theme is great.
Theme should be in everything.
Theme is part of life.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 5TWC4jmQTBI Game Night Picks - Pair Of Dice Paradise Discussion at 11:03 sentiment: neutral

video_pk 33288 · mention_pk 98834

Click to watch at 11:03 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

neutral

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

And it's not just small publishers that are being affected.
The tariffs applied to their products are equal to $14.50 for every $10 that they spend on manufacturing for an estimated total of $1.5 million of additional expenses just in import taxes.
I do believe that the first step towards inflicting change for the better is for each of us to start finding opportunities to speak up, speak out, speak often.
Using your voice empowers others to do the same.
That's why I made this video to use my little voice to hopefully try and encourage all of us to use our voice.
That's all I got.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 3oiFN7jSW88 Tabletop Turtle Top List at 11:46 sentiment: positive

video_pk 9036 · mention_pk 26657

Click to watch at 11:46 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Strong thematic cohesion and cute art
Accessible and easy to teach despite depth from character variations
High replayability due to many different monster powers

Cons

Can feel heavier than a typical light party game for some players
Learning curve for managing many character abilities

Thematic elements

Monsters escaping the screen to frighten the audience
Halloween horror movie aesthetic
Movie-inspired, monster-focused scenarios with varied powers

Comparison games

Canvas

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Action card play / deck interaction — Players use action cards to drive their monsters' activities; powers alter card use and hand size.
Variable player powers — Dozens of monster-specific abilities create varied play styles.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Look through the town and find clues to solve the murders.
This town needs a Batman.
It is tedious, but because that there is a narrative to it, you actually like I don't know. I was motivated to keep looking for stuff.
With this game in particular, it gives you specific things to look for.
It's very easy to teach and people will probably really enjoy.
This game thrives and excels in being a movie focused horror Halloweeny.
The art is really cute. But I will admit I had lower expectations for Spooktacular. But I was very impressed.
the game just provides a really good sense of agency
there's a good amount of interaction here too

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video U_JjvD0lcGc Our Family Plays Games Discussion at 58:57 sentiment: positive

video_pk 7879 · mention_pk 23250

Click to watch at 58:57 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

very_positive

Pros

highly thematic and social
fun to play in groups

Cons

availability issues (sold out)

Thematic elements

monster theatre, drafting, asymmetry
theater/monster story
theatrical, humorous

Comparison games

Dixit
King of Tokyo

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric powers — each monster/player has unique abilities.
Drafting — players draft cards to realize monsters’ strengths.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Stara Month is officially over.
This is one of the most diverse and inclusive conventions we've been to. It felt like a warm hug.
Grand Con is a family reunion.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video XagX1hVgKH0 The Dice Tower Top List at 2:05 sentiment: positive

video_pk 7757 · mention_pk 22897

Click to watch at 2:05 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

strong, playful monster theme and art
asymmetry provides varied play experiences
highly expandable with more monsters and variants

Cons

asymmetry can be challenging for new players
theme-heavy design may not appeal to everyone

Thematic elements

monster parody, cinema/film homage
Theater stage populated by monster parodies and theatrical hijinks.
asymmetric monster roles with varying difficulty levels

Comparison games

Worms-inspired chaos games

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric Player Powers — Each monster has its own unique abilities and scaling difficulty.
Unique Player Powers — Monsters unlock or access different abilities as the game progresses.
Variable player powers — Monsters unlock or access different abilities as the game progresses.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is Spooktacular. Definitely check it out.
It's so asymmetric and the fact these monsters also have different difficulty.
Origin Story really is one of the more thematic trick-taking games that I've ever played.
This is a fantastic deck building game.
There’s so many captains that you play in it feel so distinct. It really nails the Star Trek theme.
Pandora's box. Oh, so fun.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video WrR3wn3DGWQ The Dice Tower Top List at 17:25 sentiment: positive

video_pk 7430 · mention_pk 21971

Click to watch at 17:25 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

fun theme and humor
short play time
accessible to new players

Cons

may not appeal to players seeking deep strategy

Thematic elements

ghosts and monsters in a playful, tongue-in-cheek setting
80s monster movie-inspired trick-taking game with a horror/romp vibe
humorous, narrative-driven, chaotic

Comparison games

The Crew
Hanabi-like cooperative takes

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

cooperative trick-taking elements — players cooperate in a trick-taking framework with thematic twists.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This one's very quick. It's very quick to play and to teach.
There are player interactions, but it doesn't feel mean.
The narrative is so well written. The actual boss battling part is gripping.
Above and Below Haunted gave it a little more oomph. Ghosts add consequence.
It feels like a video game in board game form; very smooth and substantial.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video WSAKWFjFmkU The Dice Tower Top List at 7:00 sentiment: positive

video_pk 3277 · mention_pk 9695

Click to watch at 7:00 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

great flavor with recognizable monster tropes
fast and accessible with quick rounds
scales well with player count

Cons

some players may find the theme a bit cartoonish
balance can vary by scenario

Thematic elements

cinematic fear with monster lineup and goals
movie-monster theater with audience and monsters
board game theme ties to classic creature motifs

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

asymmetric roguelike monster play — monsters with different goals and abilities shoehorned into a fast game
fast play — short, quick rounds with high replayability
Scenario-driven objectives — players complete monster-specific tasks to win

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is a post-apocalyptic Frozen racing game.
I think it's Grand Austria Hotel. I assume this murder. I don't know this strusel hotel up.
Dominion is the OG deck builder for a reason.
This is the Gear-based timing game, Zulkin: The Mayan Calendar.
Massive Darkness Hellscape is the best within this line for a light-to-mid-weight experience.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 8AWaFF4v3r4 Rolls in the Family Top 10 List at 20:42 sentiment: positive

video_pk 1781 · mention_pk 5148

Click to watch at 20:42 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Accessible, family-friendly; replay variability is high
Compact playtime with strong thematic flavor

Cons

Asymmetry can be opaque to new players

Thematic elements

Asymmetric monster personalities in a lightweight party-ish setting
Movie theater / horror monsters theme
Highly accessible but highly variable each run

Comparison games

Rampage / Terror in Meeple City
The Crew (cooperative, quick, modular scenarios)

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric Player Powers — Each monster role has unique abilities for quick, varied plays
Move around a theater-board / meeples — Navigate theater spaces to achieve consumption/objectives

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

There's nothing even close really, I think, to what this game is doing with this.
It's not a campaign. It's a campaign game, but it can be played in one-offs as well.
This one has the potential to be the best game we try this year.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video MHCqMqfJAHg The Dice Tower Discussion at 0:31 sentiment: mixed

video_pk 1519 · mention_pk 4358

Click to watch at 0:31 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

strong thematic flavor
asymmetric character flavor adds variety

Cons

may feel uneven with larger player counts
not personally appealing to the reviewer

Thematic elements

spooky, Halloween party atmosphere with asymmetric character powers
Halloween-themed party game with thematic flavor and character-driven roles
character-driven, asymmetric play that emphasizes theme

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric abilities — each player controls a unique character with its own power affecting actions and strategy
Asymmetric Player Powers — each player controls a unique character with its own power affecting actions and strategy
thematic action selection — actions and turns are influenced by character flavor and theme

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

There is a ton of theme involved.
The theme is super there. And if you love this idea of a game, go for it.
it's cozy. It's one of those games that has some cool thinkiness to it.
placing a number in between two other numbers and collecting one of those numbers that you placed in between of.
I think that it offers a nice balance between thinking and social interaction.
the balance and the cool synergies of the engine
this is one of those cozy games where you can hang out and talk with people

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 5mnhgZVdrts One Stop Co-op Shop Top List at 3:08 sentiment: positive

video_pk 1063 · mention_pk 3035

Click to watch at 3:08 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Competitive and solo play
Fun monster/theme concept

Cons

Can be repetitive if played a lot

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The boss battling was pretty interesting.
The story was pretty cool.
It's not my favorite boss battler or adventure games by any means this year, but still pretty fun.
I love the stealth in this one. I'm a big fan of the IP, and I think this is an amazing video game adaptation.
Adventure Done right.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video sbJ63luddoc The Dice Tower Top List at 5:04 sentiment: positive

video_pk 656 · mention_pk 1864

Click to watch at 5:04 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Strong theming that captures B-movie monster energy
Replayable with varied monster types

Cons

Not IP-specific, which may affect appeal for some players

Thematic elements

Slasher/horror tropes translated to a board game
Movie theater setting; monsters escaping the screen
episodic, monster-driven encounters

Comparison games

Stuffed Fables
Nemesis

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

asymmetric roles — Different monsters have distinct behaviors and victory conditions; players chase/evade in a comic-hantipa style
set collection / area control flavor — Monsters move between rooms and interact with players in a thematic way

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

"This is Spooktacular. It is spectacular and spooky."
"The theme is very well integrated into the story that you're playing through."
"You can feel the humanity of the ghosts and the dream transitions."
"It's like Ford versus Ferrari for fashion."
"The alien gets on board and starts growing. It’s iconic."
"This is Mad Max on a board. Thunder Road Vendetta is fantastic."

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video Fx7MGOai4bc Our Family Plays Games Discussion at 15:00 sentiment: positive

video_pk 271 · mention_pk 817

Click to watch at 15:00 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

strong Gen Con presence
expansion Killatron 3000 included

Cons

gory tone may not suit all groups

Thematic elements

horror/theatrical monster combat
theater during a storm with movie monsters
gory, Halloween-esque

Comparison games

Betrayal at House on the Hill

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

theater-scene monster play — monsters compete to spook and devour guests

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Step into Kenfire Council, a cutthroat contest of strategy and politics.
This is a big boy.
18 cards.
It's a different type of train game.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Spooktacular

Spooktacular | Whats In The Box | Level 99 Games

Spooktacular - 🤡💀When 20 Original Monsters Escaped Cinema Screen

Spooktacular Doombox solo play (review copy provided)

Spooktacular

Spooktacular | Whats In The Box | Level 99 Games

Spooktacular - 🤡💀When 20 Original Monsters Escaped Cinema Screen

Spooktacular Doombox solo play (review copy provided)

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