The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Deck-Building Game

Video V6RrASFEk0c The Discriminating Gamer Top List at 1:43 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Very fun system
Great application to the Lord of the Rings IP

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Lord of the Rings, first film

Comparison games

DC Comics deck building game

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

card combat — You play these different characters as you're fighting the different enemies and villains that they meet in that film.
Deck Building — You are getting better cards, stronger cards, you're leveling up, getting rid of weaker cards.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

So, let's go ahead and jump right into it.
It's kind of a fun random uh fantasy borderline horror game and I really really enjoy it.
It is just an incredibly fun and innovative game.
It's a great game of trying to figure out who you can trust and and when to backstab and how to avoid a backstabbing and all sorts of great things.
Time flies like an arrow, but fruit flies like a banana.

References (from this video)

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Video SYSoRdaGtTA Board Game Critique Analysis at 41:15 sentiment: other

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Overall sentiment (raw)

Descriptive (future release)

Pros

Unique blend of trick-taking and narrative
Restricted communication encourages non-verbal cues
Individual mission objectives
Decentralized decision-making

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Journey of the Fellowship
Middle-earth (First Book)
Narrative trick-taking, chapter-by-chapter progression

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Individual Mission Objectives — Different missions reward or require different approaches, and players may not have the same information about active missions.
Narrative Chapters — Natural break points for strategy discussion between missions, but play itself is decentralized.
restricted communication — In many chapters, players cannot freely discuss their hands or plans, conveying information through card choice and timing.
Trick-Taking — Uses a trick-taking system with limited or coded communication.
Trust-based Play — Forces players to trust each other's judgment in the moment and develop a shared language of plays rather than verbal instructions.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

You ever sit down for a cooperative game, and within 20 minutes one person is basically playing the whole thing while everyone else just moves pieces where they're told?
Yeah, the alpha player problem. It's one of the most common complaints in cooperative board gaming, and it's especially prevalent in the older designs.
Pandemic is the textbook example.
The alpha player problem is addressed through several deliberate design choices.
The alpha player problem is solved through strict mechanical asymmetry and divided physical control.
The alpha player problem is solved primarily through asymmetric information distribution.
The alpha player problem is addressed through extreme asymmetry and simultaneous play combined with high complexity.
alpha player problem is mitigated through personal deck ownership and investigator specialization.
Groups that succeed long-term tend to be those that respect each investigator's niche and communicate needs rather than issuing commands.

References (from this video)

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Video dUpNU-xvo1Y kovray Haul Video at 4:20 sentiment: positive

video_pk 86656 · mention_pk 225013

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Fellowship of the Ring
Middle-earth

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Deck Building — Mentioned as a deck-building game.
Trick-Taking — Mentioned as a trick-taking game.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This game is literally you draw a card it's kind of like twister with your hands it is it's not kind of like twister with your hands it's twisted with your hands and sticks yeah
Combo is a good way to understand rankings of poker hands or of hands in general
The Gang was a game that came out and there are some really memorable hands and I feel like that game just always makes me filled with joy
it's important now that we're especially now that we're working in the hobby that we take some time to enjoy the hobby because we never want that fire to burn or the fire to continue to burn we don't want it to dim
Do you want to see me and Tyler go head-to-head in yellow house do you want a how to playay video of Cascadia Jr do you want to see a tether competition

References (from this video)

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Video 5teFv-T9uPU Tantrum House Top List at 8:13 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Really fun game
Love the theme
Love the gameplay
Cool artwork with a stained glass feel

Cons

none

Thematic elements

The Lord of the Rings
Middle-earth
Campaign-based, following chapters of the story

Comparison games

The Crew

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Campaign play — The game progresses through different chapters, functioning as a campaign.
cooperative play — The game is cooperative.
Trick-Taking — It is a trick-taking game.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Baghdad crafting the cosmos from Office dog is my next game on my most anticipated games list
you are an Interstellar architect competing to build the Galaxy one star at a time
manipulate the laws of the universe to your advantage shifting gravity or the flow of time to activate useful Power Cards and even spawn Advanced life that can earn you extra victory points at the end of the game
use your resources wisely as you craft your Cosmic creation
the last one on my list is propolis from Flatout games
I'm really excited about this because of what it says the game's all about worker placement engine building area control and Tableau building woo it's getting me excited
my one concern is it says it plays in 15 to 30 minutes with all those different gameplay mechanics I'm concerned is the game going to play too fast for my taste
they usually put out really really good games I mean they put out Cascadia they put out Calico Point salad um love love those games
this game you are taking on the role of competing medieval be colonies and taking turns to deploy your worker bees to collect pollen fortify their positions and construct your hives to appease your queen and become the most glorious in the land
theme's kind of cute um but the gameplay could be amazing um I hope it's amazing as my number one on my most anticipated list here

References (from this video)

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Video uGTxxtPTXao Discussion at 26:53 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

Positive

Pros

Clever mechanics
Enjoyable initial plays

Cons

Uncertainty about long-term cleverness

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

deck-building — the Fellowship of the Ring trick taker
Trick-Taking — the Fellowship of the Ring trick taker

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

that is above retail it's very far above retail I don't know what's going on there
oh Critter kitchen I was like now means we got to play this five times you got to commit to it
it's terrible it's it's it's like I have nothing that's how bad the production is
all of us think it's the the best of all of them
which everyone knows was my my game of the year
it's a legacy now I think it's like a 10 or 12 game thing and it's tile laying and it has an app
every game you add one new section of map that is whoever I think it's whoever wins whoever wins or whoever loses gets to pick the new section of map
every single section introduces a new mechanic to the game
the story wasn't super compelling
Betrayal Legacy is brilliant the way they do the story and unlocking stuff is incredible
however not a satisfying ending story-wise and never remember it
it still felt weird even up to the last game was that you don't score points as you go
the mechanics it's very sound and I legitimately am interested in playing the game again
make sure you're taking time for yourself and one of the best ways to do that is to play games with people you enjoy

References (from this video)

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Video n_ptHCPqoAg Board Gaming Ramblings Discussion at 10:25 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

highly anticipating this
rules seem very simple but interesting

Cons

people who have played it have priced it up and down

Thematic elements

The Lord of the Rings

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Trick-Taking — It is a trick-taking game.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

we also always want to try new stuff
we don't need this many games there's no reason for that if you don't have a YouTube channel
I'm going to be telling you all about how the game box looks because that's the extent of my knowledge about this game
this is the thing in this whole video which I'm the most excited about
I backed a Kickstarter to get a lid
I have a problem it looks really good
I'm so happy to see that we can get new versions of these games maybe there's hope for Mad some way down the line

References (from this video)

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Video mBjx3PS_670 Rahdo Runs Through Rules Teach at 0:02 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Strong thematic integration
Engaging character-specific goals
Campaign structure with evolving gameplay
High replayability after campaign completion
Unique twist on cooperative trick-taking
Well-made components and presentation
Satisfying cooperative experience

Cons

Occasional unclear rules or card text
Two-player variant, while functional, changes the dynamic significantly

Thematic elements

Following the story of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Middle-earth
Campaign-based, following story progression through chapters

Comparison games

The Crew
The Crew: Mission Deep Sea

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

bluffing/hidden information — Gimly's blindfolded play and the general inability to communicate hand contents add elements of hidden information and deduction.
Campaign play — The game progresses through a series of chapters, unlocking new content and story elements.
Card Drafting — Players draft characters at the start of each chapter, often influenced by who holds the One Ring card.
Character Goals — Each player controls a character with specific objectives they must achieve within a chapter.
cooperative play — Players work together to achieve shared and individual character goals within each chapter.
Set Collection — Some character goals involve collecting specific types or numbers of cards (e.g., Ring cards).
Trick-Taking — The core mechanic involves players playing cards into tricks, following suit if possible, with the highest card winning the trick.
Variable player powers — Characters have unique abilities and objectives that affect gameplay.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

"This is your game for this special day."
"The box itself is really really organized."
"The One Ring is the only Trump quality that you'll you're used to in a trick-taking game."
"You are not allowed to talk to other players about what you have in your hand."
"The theme was much much stronger and the cards you're playing with feel more engaging."
"I love a campaign style game this offers just a lot of satisfying play."
"I'm a big trick taking fan and I love the Cooperative trick-taking genre and sub genre so this does not disappoint at all."

References (from this video)

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Video kzBvVLmBGOg Hungry Gamer Analysis at 12:13 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Good game
Liked it enough to want a copy
Very hard
Host loves Lord of the Rings

Cons

Only played a demo
Falls down the list due to limited play time

Thematic elements

Fellowship's journey to destroy the ring
Lord of the Rings universe

Comparison games

Pandemic

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

crisis management — So a crisis management game
Variable player powers — Everybody plays two different characters and one of your characters does one action, the other does four every turn

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

if you took Sudoku and made it a board game with a little bit of adventure in it.
This is an intensely clever game.
It's super clever.
Small game, quick filler, It's right up there with Mouse, Cheesecat, Cucumber for me.
This is a bidding game where each of your different skyscrapers on this flying island has a different number on the bottom
And the thing with this game is it's easy to teach. It's quick to play. And it is beautiful. Just beautiful.
But it is exceptional.
this is a crisis management game that has a little bit of RPG leveling up, a whole bunch of worker placement, and as I said, crisis management, and you're chucking some dice to do some fighting and all those kinds of things.
This is to me my handsdown favorite deck builder out there. Period. I adore it.
It's a dice placement game and I I loved it.
It's just super asymmetric, which has that moment of, you know, some people don't know what you're doing, so maybe they don't know if you're cheating or breaking the rules or whatever it is.
This is based on Dante's Inferno. The game's called Inferno, which is a very cool theme to me.
And just it's a heavy game.
In fact, I think this is the absolute top limit of how heavy a Euro game can be and I still would be interested in playing it regularly.

References (from this video)

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Video ah0ZN8SKrgU Hungry Gamer Discussion at 14:08 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Really liked this Pandemic-style game.
Very hard and can be swingy, but clever.
Beautiful production.
Makes me interested in playing Pandemic Fall of Rome.

Cons

Can be really swingy, leading to quick losses.
The theme can be creepy and too real for some.

Thematic elements

A riff on Pandemic Fall of Rome, focused on moving armies across Middle-earth.
Middle-earth

Comparison games

Pandemic
Pandemic: Fall of Rome

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Action Point Allowance System — Each player gets four actions for one character and one action for the other each turn.
Area Movement — Armies move across Middle-earth along defined lines.
Cooperative — Players work together to accomplish missions and save Middle-earth.
Set Collection — Collecting different colored troops to specific areas to draw Sauron's attention.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It is disrespectful of me to do something with my evenings.
There is a special circle of hell for people who show up to a graduation with an air horn.
I really appreciate El Paso, you know, taking pretty much that same experience but distilling it down to the essential moves and it's a quick I don't know how long it took us. Less than an hour.
It's really hard and it can be really swingy.
You don't always have to teach a new game. Sometimes it's good to go back to something you know people like.
It is hard to teach because of the exact thing that I watched Don's face get confused about when you say you're in my garden. I'm in your garden.
It is chesslike in that you just try to optimize your moves over everybody else's moves.
It's a heavier game than I usually like, but I just think it's really clever the way it's put together.
The timer fits the theme in this game. You're driving 50 miles an hour in traffic trying to fight off bad guys.
Definite Spy Hunter vibes from this game.
The dice represent nature, which screws up your whole plan for that magic.
If you're going to play Twilight Imperium, you need to drink water, hydrate or not play.
And so Gunnet is a game that was sent us specifically reached out to me, asked me if we wanted to cover and they were interested in us covering it on this podcast, which is a first first time.
The core of the game is having the discussion of, okay, well, I'm going to give you this because you're going to act first and the first thing that's going to happen is we're going to drive the car to the left one space and then you're going to shoot.
I usually don't like a game with a timer, but you know, the timer fits the theme in this game. You're driving 50 miles an hour in traffic trying to fight off bad guys.
For a game that's seems like it's about making you feel stressed out for a brief moment and then that stress turns into moments of joy and glory. Like I think it accomplished that more often than it didn't.
The other game is Rollin One, uh, which is a golf game. Again, small footprint. It's a small box.
You take turns designing the course. So you take a number of cards that represent parts of the the you know the golf course and you put them together.
The golf clubs are represented by dice. So there's a d20, d12, d10 and so on.
And so there's actually some serious strategy to picking your club.
I thought it was very clever and I think both of the games are pretty darn thematic.
Make sure you are in the mood for the thing that you're going to partake.

References (from this video)

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Video yfN193aKl0M Meeple University Top 10 List at 21:56 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Very thematic and story-driven
Character-specific objectives
Challenging journey with risks
Immersive storytelling
Unique movement and action system

Cons

Can be difficult if Frodo is left alone
Less mathematical than Pandemic

Thematic elements

Journey of Frodo to Mount Doom
Lord of the Rings universe
Thematic story-driven

Comparison games

Pandemic

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Action Point Allowance System — You control two characters, one of which does four actions and one of which does one.
cooperative play — Everyone has to kind of help Frodo along and have all these, you know, spend stealth so he moves quietly or have all these mitigations in there. And if if you leave Froto to kind of do it alone, you can it can really go badly on you.
Movement — You could no longer move quickly across the map made for this interesting different way to play with distance.
Objective Completion — You were trying to complete objectives that were true to the characters.
Set Collection — Trying to get to a location where you could exchange the card of that location in order to create sets.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

As usual, we're going to share you games that we played in June 2025, the first time we played. So, not necessarily new games.
It's all our opinion.
All the new to us games for June.
So, we are going to alternatively share from the number five to number one.
Very aggressive, very hatedraft induced, but it's really great game.
This is a really clever market uh economic type of game.
It's really satisfying when you upgrade things when you try to all right what do we do first?
This is the new pandemic system game set in the Lord of the Rings universe.
Pleasantly surprising was how was the differences between this and Pandemic and how it felt like a very different game to Pandemic.

References (from this video)

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Video uxw-784KOP8 Meeple University Discussion

video_pk 84725 · mention_pk 215707

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)

The future is here.
Gen Con happened and was big and successful.
Please let Taran know as well in the comment to try to convince Taran why Taran should go to Gen Con.

References (from this video)

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Video IaBMVA2W7Rc Gaming Rules! Discussion at 57:11 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Considered incredible by the host.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

The journey of the Fellowship of the Ring.
Middle-earth
Narrative-driven gameplay.

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 rule books for those games which were co-written by Vlarger and Jason. Uh those are really really good rule books. very very well written, absolutely perfect in terms of teaching you the game. Zero questions afterwards.
Well, Mage Knight, but only just Mage Knight is my number one favorite game of all time.
Elder Scrolls is very likely in my top 10 or top 20, but yeah. Um, it depends how much time I've got. If I had 12, 14 hours free, I'd play Elder Scrolls. If I had four or five hours free, I'd play Mage Knight.
Okay. Well, let's say Voidfall because the last two times that I've played Voidfall, I have specifically said I don't want to play this with people who haven't played before.
It's a great game. It's from QuinnD Games. They always do really good games and I'm doing a giveaway and it's not had many entries.

References (from this video)

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Video L2GHwLR5byA The Brothers Murph Top List at 24:10 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Love the theme.
Beautiful combination of elements.
Super fun.
So much fun.
Top 10 gaming experience.

Cons

Difficult to complete in one sitting.
Very difficult.

Thematic elements

Making your way through The Fellowship of the Ring story, accomplishing chapter-based missions.
The Shire
Chapter-based trick-taking game, progressing through story beats.

Comparison games

The Crew
The Two Towers
Return of the King
The Hobbit
Top Gun

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

character-specific goals — Each playable character has a specific goal within a chapter (e.g., taking the fewest tricks, collecting specific cards).
cooperative play — Players work together to complete chapter objectives.
Scenario/Chapter-based — The game is structured into chapters with specific missions and qualifications.
Trick-Taking — The core gameplay involves trick-taking mechanics.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's time for the better, let's be honest, more more accurate list.
We're re-ranking our list.
You got to subscribe. Okay. Subscribe right now.
It's the search for Extrestle Intelligence.
It's just so good. Like, the art's good. It's so simple. It's
So, we're going to talk about our kind of now as of today 10 favorite games from 2024.
But nonetheless, Imperium Horizons, uh, which is a new game for sure, but was building on Imperium Classics and Legends, but it is its own game.
So, like the Romans, you're trying to get a bunch of reasons because the Romans be expanding. They out there taking over reasons. That's what they do, right?
every faction plays very differently.
play this game solo or two-player and that's it.
The solo mode's really fantastic as well.
soloing this game is awesome.
This is my favorite game from last year and it's still not that close.
for me it's still not that close.
I love STEI so much.
It's such a good year.
the aliens are the coolest part of the game.
I love the mid-game reveal. It's so cool.
Seriously, crazy good year.
Crazy good year for games uh in 2024.

References (from this video)

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Video wPEMihDnsd4 Grant Lyon Discussion at 0:36 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Family loved the first one, so they should like this one.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Lord of the Rings

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Trick taking — the Lord of the Rings trick taking game

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's always a crazy hard choice of which games I want to bring back. They have to be my favorite games of the year, but also games I think my family will really enjoy.
My family loves party games and they love cooperative games, so that's what I'm focusing on.
So, those are all the games I'm bringing back for the holidays.

References (from this video)

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Video gXUKGNfQ0Qo Grant Lyon Analysis at 0:20 sentiment: neutral

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Overall sentiment (raw)

neutral

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Trick taking

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I brought 22 games and we played 19 of them.
My 5-year-old nephew, that was probably his favorite game of the trip, and he played that one a lot.
The only game I brought that was not a hit was The Fate of the Fellowship.
I love this game. It's just a little too complicated for my family, specifically my dad.
I just think it was a little bit too much for him and I kind of knew that it would be on the edge of too much but I wanted to try it anyway and and now I know I still think it's a great game.

References (from this video)

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Video PGnQvzhlfB0 Grant Lyon Analysis at 6:02 sentiment: positive

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Continues the story from the previous game
Escalating difficulty and challenges
Adds new mechanical elements like orcs and towers
Considered among the best cooperative card games

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Lord of the Rings story progression
Cooperative storytelling through chapters

Comparison games

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring trick-taking game

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Campaign play — Played through chapters that escalate in difficulty and add rules/challenges.
cooperative trick-taking — A cooperative trick-taking game where players play as characters trying to win or lose specific tricks based on their character's needs to advance the story.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

For anybody who's new to the channel, the way this video works is I include three types of board games here.
I put a lot of work and a lot of research into these videos and I'm glad it is useful to all the board gamers out there.
It's a great learning tool as well if you're trying to teach uh family members about history, um whether that being kids or whatever.
If I knew a couple that was wanting to get more into the world of board games, I think Patchwork is one of the best recommendations.
I think these are some of the best cooperative card games out there.
It is, you know, a dexterity game at its heart.
This is legitimately one of the heaviest weight strategy games out there.
You often do destroy some stuff in the game. Like you might cut things, you might rip things, uh but that kind of adds some fun layers to the challenge of the game.

References (from this video)

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Video 14ZAbFw0ZWg Get into games Review at 38:55 sentiment: positive

video_pk 81416 · mention_pk 202022

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Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Lord of the Rings
Middle-earth

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's a to me it's the perfect sort of intro game to a board games day.
there's Easter eggs on the cards for all the games which was really cool.
It's beautiful and it's just very enjoyable.
I think it's just the theme, the way it looks. It just it gives something more than the mind.
It's really tight resource management.
as soon as the treasure is found, it becomes a cat and mouse chase.
I would argue that the only thing that I think lets it down a little that I would probably change might be the roll and move.

References (from this video)

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Video bsrZwwOVe9A Ryan and Bethany Board Game Reviews Top List at 17:30 sentiment: positive

video_pk 81347 · mention_pk 201473

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Overall sentiment (raw)

Extremely positive

Pros

Full cooperative trick-taking
Set in the Lord of the Rings world, following the book
Fun to see plot points from the books
Each chapter is a mini-game with new parameters and goals
Gets more complex as the game goes on
Sequel available and already started
Better than The Crew
Different parameters for different characters
Works well as a two-player game
Impressive designer, leading to following their work
Fantastic artwork
Recommended highly for fans of trick-taking games or Lord of the Rings

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Based on the book 'The Fellowship of the Ring'
Middle-earth

Comparison games

The Crew
Seven Wonders Duel

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Campaign play — Going through the campaign, looking at chapters, reading flavor text.
cooperative trick-taking — A full cooperative trick-taking game.
Tableau Building — Works out well in two-player, similar to Seven Wonders Duel with a drafting tower.
Variable player powers — Different parameters for different characters, with required and additional characters each chapter.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is Tag Team. This is a dueling game, but it's a deck programmer as well.
So, this is five, Bethany's number four. Yes, this is a legacy game um based on Flash Point.
And this is one of I you can you can speak to this as well, but this is probably this the only legacy game that I would ever go back to just because of how it's set up.
My number four is a Valkyrie, a Black Orchestra game.
Whereas Valkyrie gives you that same emotion, that same challenge level, but in a half an hour, 45-minute package.
This is Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, a trick-taking game.
Uh, think something like The Crew, I guess, would be the most similar, most relatable kind of game.
And uh, it's I just really enjoy being able to see all these little Easter eggs and little plot points from the books popping up throughout these card games.
I love The Crew and this is way better than The Crew.
My number two is Potions of Azmaré and this is an order for fulfillment game where there's just a bunch of people coming into your village and so you're building all these um you're making all these potions, but there's all also these kind of like um kind of tech trees, but not really that you're trying to build up so you can do better things, more things and you kind of have to go up on everything to do well on everything.
All right, my number two is a game called Flip Tunes.
I saw this game and I just hated the artwork. I didn't like that classic old school like Disney cartoon style artwork or Cuphead. And they had that vintage cartoon and I just don't I don't know. It doesn't appeal to me. It's a big turn-off. And this whole game it uses that artwork.
But, I do love deck-building games and I will try any deck-building game I can get my hands on.
Um and it's just kind of a race to get to to 30 fame and then you have one final round after that as well.
This is Luthier. Luthier is from Peterson Games and it is basically a big old Euro where you are a luthier who is either making instruments, repairing instruments, or doing performances with certain kinds of musical genres, musical instruments as well.
It's absolutely stunning art. It's a huge table hog.
This right here is a giant pipe organ dice tower.
So even if you take all the cool stuff away, this is one of those perfect games where you can see a unique and interesting theme that you haven't seen before implemented so well into the gameplay.
Man, Lutiear so good visually, gameplay, every bit of it is awesome.
Number one game of 2025 Lutiear.

References (from this video)

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Video 8_kGBqsfBT8 BoardGameCo Discussion at 10:09

video_pk 81272 · mention_pk 200835

Click to watch at 10:09 · YouTube ↗

Pros

Host hopes to play through the whole thing.

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)

I didn't have anything particularly interesting as far as the various news sources that I try to uh keep up with.
people are allowed to not like a game.
It is okay for people not to like the game you like.
Although good conversation is important, but sometimes people pop up into groups and they're like, "I didn't like super popular thing." And then people really just don't react the best way in a way that's really super welcoming.
It's just always helpful if we do so in a way that actually fosters relevant, meaningful, helpful conversation as opposed to just simply, you know, dunking on people for not liking the thing that you like.
I like it probably about as much as I like Things in Rings.
I just prefer Vindication and they're a little too similar. I don't feel the need to own both.
Orléans is one of those very very classic games that's just so smooth and elegant and well done.
I'm sorry there wasn't a lot of news this week. Although sometimes that can be a good thing.
it doesn't seem to be a COVID thing to be afraid of. Like this is not COVID 2.0.
Hantavirus it requires significantly more work for it to spread.
it's not COVID-level big deal. It's a big deal for a smaller group of people, and the level of contagion is not nearly what we're talking with COVID.

References (from this video)

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Video IDdshT2jZiE BoardGameCo Top List at 25:30 sentiment: positive

video_pk 81106 · mention_pk 199655

Click to watch at 25:30 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

Positive, but with reservations about table presence compared to The Crew.

Pros

Does more interesting things than the original
Fun campaign
Enjoyable gameplay
Merges Lord of the Rings world with The Crew gameplay

Cons

Doesn't replace The Crew for single mission play
Annoying to pull out a random scenario
Less likely to be tabled outside of a dedicated group

Thematic elements

Lord of the Rings narrative
Lord of the Rings
Scenario-based progression

Comparison games

The Crew
Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (original)

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Campaign play — The game is treated as a campaign game, progressing through missions.
scenario-based play — Players can pick any mission and play it with the rules in place.
Trick-Taking — Core gameplay involves trick-taking.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

My biggest issue with it is that I thought it would replace the crew for me. Uh, and it doesn't.
Everyone has to be willing to submit information to the table. if you just hold your cards to yourself the entire time and just watch. Yes, technically it gives you a leg up over other players to a small degree, but also you're just not fun to play with.
It's basically like card comboing with like fun worker placement vibes. It's like terrifying Mars adjacent.
It is literally I timed myself multiple times in this. It is 2 minutes to set up a session of Quinnfire Chronicles.
So Clover has replaced code names.
Based on the first game alone, I would say do not buy this. Play terrifying Mars as is based on the first game alone.
Legacy of Mars is a giant scam.
Small differences between the base Let's Go to Japan and Let's Go to France. Small differences, but those differences make such a huge difference.
It is well worth the 20-minute setup.
It feels like the world is constantly against you as you play.

References (from this video)

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Video NcrmypYR1Fs Totally Tabled Other at 3:00 sentiment: positive

video_pk 80673 · mention_pk 197189

Click to watch at 3:00 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Standalone sequel to The Fellowship of the Ring trick-taking game.
Cooperative trick-taking similar to The Crew.
Added optional narrative story.
Unlock new characters and cards as you progress.
Solo mode works really well.
Enjoyable despite preferring Four Northwood for solo trick-taking.

Cons

Solo mode turns the game into a straightforward puzzle with a bit of push-your-luck.

Thematic elements

Cooperative trick-taking with narrative story
Middle-earth
Chapter-based progression with unlocked content

Comparison games

The Fellowship of the Ring
The Crew
Four Northwood

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Campaign play — Chapters 19 through 36 continue the story from the previous game.
cooperative play — A cooperative trick-taking game.
narrative — An optional narrative story is added to the gameplay.
solo mode — Works well but changes the feel to a puzzle with push-your-luck.
Trick-Taking — Core mechanic of the game.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The push and pull really works well.
I should warn you that I've heard the rules have changed slightly in the final version.
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers trick-taking game is the standalone sequel to The Fellowship of the Ring trick-taking game
The twist is there's a third opponent faction controlled by the game itself that is also competing for area and scoring points.
A solo mini Cyclades sounds really interesting to me, so I'm very excited for this one.
It's a little difficult to tell these tile placement games apart. A lot of them are starting to look quite similar.
The production looks like one of the best of the year.
I know the card play of Revive is not in Recall, so that alone seems like enough of a difference despite some of the surface level similarities.
Given the mixed reviews this game has received on BGG, I'm concerned.
I also think it just looks amazing on the table.
This sounds like it might improve the solo game as long as controlling the bot doesn't become too complex.

References (from this video)

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Video 7k94s7g0Slc Top List at 18:12 sentiment: positive

video_pk 77716 · mention_pk 187675

Click to watch at 18:12 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Great thematic integration
Fun cooperative trick-taking
Escalating scenarios with unique character objectives

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Lord of the Rings
Middle-earth
Storyline progression through scenarios

Comparison games

The Crew

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Character roles — Everybody picks a character at the start of each chapter and those characters need have objectives.
cooperative trick-taking — A really fun cooperative trick-taking game.
scenario progression — Working through escalating scenarios and they get more and more difficult as you go.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Most of the time I want to play competitive, but it's really nice to have good games where you can work together and not work against each other.
Essentially turns the regular game of Santorini into a bit of a cooperative campaign puzzling game.
If you want an introduction to deduction games, I think a carnivore did it is really fun for that reason.
I like cooperative games that have real cooperation, that have real dialogue to them.
I had an epic day playing The Elder Scrolls where we were playing it for like 5 6 hours and it was awesome and it was so memorable and it is a great game.
This is essentially this game is taking the pandemic system and making a new game out of it.
You cannot communicate when you're placing cards down.
It is a cooperative polyomino tile laying game, and there aren't that many cooperative polyomino games.
It has gotten compared to The Crew, and I think the comparison is appropriate.
It is full of a bunch of dumb puns, which makes it silly and fun, too.
You know, it's one of those games where it's like you you're not guaranteed of a win in in Ham Hell Singh, which I like about cooperative games.

References (from this video)

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Video 0eWryQcmhD0 Review at 0:10 sentiment: positive

video_pk 69217 · mention_pk 165629

Click to watch at 0:10 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Theme is endearing and recognizable.
Mechanically interesting puzzle in the trick-taking aspect.
Cooperative gameplay that avoids quarterbacking.
Campaign structure provides increasing tension and narrative progression.
Art and component quality are good.
Visually appealing box design.
Engaging communication between players.
Deep cut characters and fan service add depth.
Cozy thematic setting.
High quality, well-shuffling cards.
Variety in character roles and missions.

Cons

The game is not deeply thematic in how mechanics integrate with the theme.
Some missions can be too straightforward.
Difficulty ramp is not always clear, with some missions potentially going down in difficulty.
Black border on card backs can be an issue after heavy play.
The IP saturation could be a concern for some.
Some characters might not appear beyond specific missions.

Thematic elements

Lord of the Rings
Lord of the Rings universe
Campaign-based story progression

Comparison games

The Crew
Quest for Planet X
Mission Deep Sea
The Gang
War of the Ring

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Campaign play — The game progresses through a series of chapters or missions that tell a story, with consequences carrying over.
cooperative play — Players work together towards a common goal, with the narrative unfolding over a campaign of missions.
Drafting — Players may draft based on their hand, which can change based on game state.
Hand Management — Players manage the cards in their hand to achieve mission objectives and influence trick outcomes.
Set Collection — Some missions require players to win specific sets or orders of cards in tricks.
Trick-Taking — The core gameplay involves taking tricks, a familiar mechanic that is given new life in a cooperative, story-driven context.
Variable player powers — Players may have unique character abilities or roles that influence their gameplay.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's not really a Lord of the Rings game, but I really like how it does trick taking.
This could replace that for me just cuz the theme is more endearing and I think the way it does the the puzzle is a little more mechanically interesting, but I really like it.
There can't be any quarterbacking cuz you play your own hand.
The art's great. I I love the art of the characters for sure.
The Fellowship of the Ring, uh, pretty tightly sized box by the way. Beautiful box.
It and it's an eye catcher on the shelf, right?

References (from this video)

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Video P2sPHtnY8jA Review at 0:24 sentiment: positive

video_pk 68981 · mention_pk 165279

Click to watch at 0:24 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Fantastic artwork and graphic design.
Feels more like the book than the movie.
The campaign and progression are engaging.
The solo mode provides a good solitaire-like experience.
Works well even for players not strongly into trick-taking games due to slow roll-in scenarios.
Offers a lot of bang for your buck.
Visually expressive and pulls you into the game.

Cons

Some scenarios in The Crew can be 'wantingly hard' or 'tricky' in a way this game avoids.
Some scenarios in The Crew can become mechanically dry without much benefit to the overall experience.

Thematic elements

The journey through the book's story

Comparison games

The Crew
The Crew: Mission Deep Sea
The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine
Fox in the Forest

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Campaign play — The game is structured into 18 chapters, progressing through a story, and characters can get updated as the quest moves along.
Card Drafting — Players have a draft of characters, sometimes with mandatory picks and choices, to satisfy scenario conditions.
Card exchange — Players can exchange cards between certain characters, driven by their win conditions.
cooperative play — It's a cooperative or solo game where players work together to achieve objectives.
Ring cards — Special ring cards are not trump but can be played under specific conditions, such as when a player cannot follow the led suit.
scenario-based objectives — Each chapter has specific objectives or characters to use, and victory is achieved by finishing all chosen characters' conditions.
Trick-Taking — A one to four player solo trick-taking game where you have a hand of cards and different rules for winning the trick.
Variable Win Conditions — Characters have different win conditions, and these can vary based on the scenario or objectives like winning a certain number of tricks or collecting specific cards.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The artwork and graphic design is it's astonishing. It's really good, but it's more bookish.
It's like playing solitaire. And you're like, 'What do you mean, Joel? You just said you played solo. You're playing a solitire.' No, I mean solitaire the card game.
And because of the presentation, because of how it rolls out the scenarios, because of the artwork, because of the little different and the characters like change, you know, and you splash in little other elements...

References (from this video)

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Video L6MraLCdQBo Review at 0:00 sentiment: positive

video_pk 67685 · mention_pk 163866

Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Great cooperative trick-taking system.
Highly varied scenarios.
More polished and varied experience than Fellowship.
Good for players who love the original Fellowship and want more scenarios.
Initial scenarios are straightforward enough for new players.
Theme is well-integrated.

Cons

Solo mode can be swingy and frustrating.
If you own Fellowship and don't play it a ton, there's not much reason to get this.
Still has some issues from Fellowship, particularly the solo mode's swinginess.
More complicated than Fellowship, especially the one ring mechanics.

Thematic elements

Following the story of the second novel in the Lord of the Rings series
Middle-earth

Comparison games

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
For Northwood
The Crew

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Card Play — Players have hands of cards with values and suits that are played during tricks.
Character powers/restrictions — Each player character has a goal and potentially special powers or restrictions.
Deck composition — The deck composition changes between the two parts of the game (Aragorn's path and Frodo's path).
event cards — Special event cards that alter gameplay, like Tower events or Dead Marshes events.
goal completion — Players must complete character-specific goals to win the scenario.
Solo variant — A variant where one player controls multiple characters.
Trick-Taking — The core mechanic of the game where players play cards to win tricks.
Trump cards — Special cards like the white and black tower cards can act as trumps and win tricks.
Tucking cards — A mechanic where a card is placed face down under a character and can be retrieved later.
two-player variant — A variant where a third player is controlled by the players.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The solo mode in this one, just because you have no idea which cards are coming later, can often be just an instant loss.
For two-player on up, I love this system. Two Towers is great. Fellowship is great. It's right up there with the crew for my favorite cooperative uh tricktakers out there.
I think Two Towers is maybe the more polished experience and definitely for my money the more varied experience...
Great game though.

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Video tPkrnFe3MAo Review at 0:00 sentiment: positive

video_pk 67647 · mention_pk 163830

Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Standalone sequel to a favorite game
Adds new elements to familiar mechanics

Cons

none

Thematic elements

The events from The Fellowship of the Ring

Comparison games

Lord of the Rings Fellowship of the Ring trick taking game

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Trick-Taking — Mentioned as a core mechanic, with specific rules about how cards cancel each other out if played in the same trick.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers trick-taking game is a standalone sequel to one of my favorite games this year, Lord of the Rings Fellowship of the Ring trick taking game.

References (from this video)

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Video -U3mLkqwLA4 Top List at 24:58 sentiment: positive

video_pk 67333 · mention_pk 163339

Click to watch at 24:58 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

Positive

Pros

Strong Lord of the Rings theme
More narrative than similar games
Fun puzzle-like gameplay
Satisfies trick-taking desires

Cons

The Fellowship of the Ring version is preferred over The Two Towers for the reviewer.

Thematic elements

Cooperative trick-taking with a narrative
The Lord of the Rings

Comparison games

The Crew
The Two Towers

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Card Drafting — you are each drafting a character at the start of every round, and that character will determine what type of tricks you want to win or lose that round.
cooperative play — It is a cooperative trick taking card game.
Set Collection — Maybe this character needs to win a trick with a mountain card, and this character can't win more than one trick, and this character needs to win tricks with the rings in it.
Trick-Taking — I love trick taking games.
Variable player powers — And that character will determine what type of tricks you want to win or lose that round.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

These are my top 10 cooperative board games of all time.
I promised you that I would do a top 10 of all time video each month this year and I am delivering on that promise.
For the past year, I've been shooting a series of professional comedians playing different board games and I plan to release that series soon.
Number five on my list is the party game So Clover.
Number four on my list is the game Chronicles of Avel.
Number three on my list of top 10 cooperative games is the game The Gang.
Number two on my list is The Lord of the Rings trick taking game, The Fellowship of the Ring.
And then my number one cooperative game of all time is a little bit of cheating, because it's mostly a cooperative game, but there is a hidden traitor in your midst, and that is the game Obscurio.
There are a lot more that I considered for this list, you know.
I hope you're liking them as well. Thank you so much for being here.

References (from this video)

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Video i1KXTo27zfo Review at 0:08 sentiment: positive

video_pk 67222 · mention_pk 163192

Click to watch at 0:08 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Thematically integrated trick-taking mechanics make sense.
Cleverly introduces new concepts without overwhelming players.
Artwork is visually appealing with a stained glass feel and book-accurate character designs.
High replayability with 18 missions and an endless mode.
Engaging two-player mode that simulates a three-player game.
Stays true to the books, with many callbacks and Easter eggs for fans.
Feels like a step up in difficulty from the previous game, Fellowship of the Ring.

Cons

The book narrative might confuse players unfamiliar with the books.

Thematic elements

The core thematic concept is following the narrative of The Two Towers book.

Comparison games

The Fellowship of the Ring Lord of the Rings trick taking game
The Crew
Seven Wonders Duel
Lord of the Rings Duel

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

chapter-based progression — The game is structured around chapters that follow the book's narrative, with players choosing characters relevant to that chapter and completing objectives to advance.
character objectives — Each character has specific goals within the trick-taking game, such as taking a certain number of tricks or avoiding specific types of tricks.
cooperative trick-taking — Players work together to achieve objectives within a trick-taking framework, with individual character objectives and overarching goals for each chapter.
Tableau Building (in 2-player) — The two-player mode utilizes a tableau of cards that players draft from, similar to games like Seven Wonders Duel, where uncovered cards are accessible.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

But at the same time, I think that it's going to make you want to read the books.
And yet thematically it made so much sense, which is just wild to me.
The game does a really good job at stairstepping you and some of the new concepts, but gosh darn it, they're really sneaky.
It was kind of brilliant actually with how they stairstepped you into these new concept and these weird ideas.
I adored this game. I loved the direction they went with the artwork. I love that stained glass feel of that and how all the cards look like that.
I'm completely enamored with this.
Truly delightful.

References (from this video)

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Video uDUUpvFQQfo Top List at 10:03 sentiment: positive

video_pk 66861 · mention_pk 162668

Click to watch at 10:03 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Really dynamic and awesome.
Great theme to use.
So much fun.

Cons

Still never won it.
Very bad at the game.

Thematic elements

The journey of the Fellowship
Middle-earth
Cooperative gameplay with escalating stakes.

Comparison games

Pandemic
Pandemic: Fall of Rome
Doing Imperium
Lost Ruins of Arnak
Ark Nova

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Action Point Allowance — Uses a mechanism similar to Pandemic's action points.
cooperative play — Players work together to achieve the game's objective.
escalation — The game features an escalating challenge.
variable player roles — Players control two characters, managing actions between them.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's time for the Golden Geek Awards where you, the people, get to vote on your favorite games of the year.
The nominations are open right now, so you can go vote on those.
This is quite possibly my favorite time of the year, the time where the artist series comes out with Board Game Geek.
It's just really, really fun. I like Settlers because each individual action that you can do in Settlers is pretty darn simple.
I love that concept for a game.
It's just got like a really cool art style and I think it's in the Hokkaido area of Japan but one thing that's really cool is there's these like those crates are made of wood and stuff.
This is Brass: Birmingham. This is the third installment in the Brass series.
The stakes are very real.
This is just like a game where you could like really make a hybrid build and kind of engine for yourself. That was super duper cool.
It's worker placement, but there's no blocking.
If you can have some flair along with your function, why the heck not?
The best inserts, of course, help your games go into the box nice and neat and stuff.

References (from this video)

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Video ShHiMGOK4lQ Top List at 23:06 sentiment: positive

video_pk 66594 · mention_pk 162286

Click to watch at 23:06 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Incredibly thematic and immersive.
Unique character-specific objectives enhance cooperative play.
Exceptional narrative integration with the Lord of the Rings story.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Cooperative trick-taking where players embody characters and complete chapter-specific goals.
Middle-earth, following the narrative of The Fellowship of the Ring book
Follows the narrative arc of the book, with characters and challenges changing per chapter (round).

Comparison games

Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
The Crew

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Chapter-based rounds — The game progresses through chapters of the book, with each chapter acting as a round.
character-specific goals — Each character has unique conditions for winning tricks or achieving objectives.
cooperative trick-taking — Players work together to achieve common goals.
Dynamic player roster — The characters available change depending on the chapter/location in the story.
narrative integration — Gameplay elements are directly tied to the plot and characters of The Lord of the Rings.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Wow, straightforward.
One of the best mechanisms ever and and most everlasting.
This is just like seriously one of the like most bafflingly amazing mechanisms ever created for games.
Keep making new ones. How?
It's fantastic.
The scoring in this game is nuts.
It was one of the greatest like board gaming experience of my life.

References (from this video)

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Video UDOlnlkBm7o Unknown Top 10 List at 1:39 sentiment: positive

video_pk 66190 · mention_pk 160881

Click to watch at 1:39 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

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)

There is a chance to get these two exclusive pins which are also going to be so so hot.
I got my one ring pin last year. Everybody wants to trade for it.
I definitely want to get these two tower pins if I can.
This is a huge thing.
I'm really, really, really excited for this one.
Sunday from 11 till 2, you'll be able to get your picture taken with Santa and you'll be able to see Holiday Hills.

References (from this video)

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Video LKRlsMQzhTw Heavy Cardboard Playthrough at 1:00 sentiment: positive

video_pk 64772 · mention_pk 158270

Click to watch at 1:00 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Deep strategic puzzles and modular mission design
Strong thematic integration with Middle-earth lore
Art and component design praised
Pacing and escalating difficulty through long missions

Cons

Complex rules and depth can be hard to teach
Lengthy setup and overall play time
Variance across campaign setups can feel unbalanced

Thematic elements

Fellowship, peril, and strategic coordination with hidden objectives
Middle-earth, Fellowship era; chapters map to scenes from the story
scenario-driven and event-based with modular mission objectives

Comparison games

The Crew

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Bridge encounter (Balrog) — A multi-stage encounter where a Balrog deck is revealed; Gandalf interacts with winning conditions for this phase.
End-of-chapter group requirements — Chapters require completing all chosen characters; certain rounds allow repeats or re-use of events.
Face-down threats and hidden information — Threats are kept face-down; information is revealed only when needed.
Mythril shirt — A safety item that can count as complete if a player fails to meet their goal.
One Ring as trump — The One Ring acts as a trump that can win tricks, with special rules about when it can be played and revealed.
River cards as trump — River cards function as a traditional trump; in some stages the Ring provides a super-trump interaction.
Simultaneous exchanges of cards — Between rounds, players exchange cards with others; exchanges happen without viewing received cards.
Threat deck and event selection — A threat deck provides per-round events that shape objectives and difficulty; events are selected per round.
Trick-Taking — Players must win a certain number of tricks to satisfy individual character goals, often under hidden constraints.
Trick-taking with mission-specific goals — Players must win a certain number of tricks to satisfy individual character goals, often under hidden constraints.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I love the art in this game. The power is very cool.
This is a good mission. This is well designed. I really like this.
Gandalf is the easiest one and probably should be taken every time.
Two hands to glory.
The Minds of Moria is my favorite chapter that we've done.
I like the tempo in this last run, right? Cuz we did start in the mines—the big set piece.

References (from this video)

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Video H0eg43rDPr8 The Board Gaming Doctor Discussion at 8:15 sentiment: positive

video_pk 40411 · mention_pk 213735

Click to watch at 8:15 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

beloved theme; potential to finish campaign across books

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

Fellowship of the Ring card games
Seven Wonders Duel

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Trick-Taking — planning and taking tricks in a LOtR-themed card game

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This year I feel has more of a prominence on expansions, at least for games that I'm interested in rather than standalone games.
I'm excited to play Garden Lake.
It is an interesting year, not very heavy with Rosenberg games as well.

References (from this video)

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Video ytoPwN6Rgjk Watch It Played Top 10 List at 9:40 sentiment: positive

video_pk 36609 · mention_pk 161477

Click to watch at 9:40 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

short, approachable yet still thematic
feels like a journey through Middle-earth

Cons

may feel light if you expect heavy depth
transition to the next installment may invite comparison

Thematic elements

cooperative progress through chapters and narrative beats
Middle-earth journey from the Shire toward Mount Doom
chapter-driven progression with a journey feel

Comparison games

The Two Towers

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

chapter-driven progression — chapters reshape what counts as success as you move along the journey.
Cooperative Game — players work together to reach objectives.
cooperative play — players work together to reach objectives.
Track Advancement — chapters reshape what counts as success as you move along the journey.
Trick-Taking — chapter-based trick-taking sequences drive success.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is The Climbers.
This is a fast, wacky racing game for two to six competitors who draft a team of ridiculous runners, roll dice, and watch the track turn into a parade of deeply unfair superpowers.
Agent Avenue just got a lot more dangerous with the Division M expansion.
One of the great hooks of Fate of the Fellowship is its modular structure.
Gold Country is blazing at number one right now.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video fTtrgACv4mA The Board Game Garden Discussion at 7:56 sentiment: positive

video_pk 36525 · mention_pk 223255

Click to watch at 7:56 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

strong IP flavor and thematic fit
excellent solo implementation of a trick-taking skeleton
enjoyable tension in trick resolution against AI

Cons

availability and components vary by print run
may not be as engaging for players who dislike trick-taking

Thematic elements

heroic quest with thematic flavor and recognizable IP
The Lord of the Rings universe, Fellowship-era adventures
solo/AI-driven, narrative-driven turn-by-turn progression

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Set Collection — cards drive scheduling and scoring decisions for building the track
set-collection and card play — cards drive scheduling and scoring decisions for building the track
solo trick-taking — one player faces an AI opponent in trick-taking rounds
Trick-Taking — one player faces an AI opponent in trick-taking rounds

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

the art on these menus are absolutely amazing
Evergreen is absolutely beautiful
this is focused on Paris 1920 and specifically the Phantom of the Opera
it's a very cool game
I love this so much, solo
it's just so beautiful

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video lkgPy-eeXZI Game Night Picks - Pair Of Dice Paradise Discussion at 1:33 sentiment: positive

video_pk 35847 · mention_pk 215444

Click to watch at 1:33 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Engaging bid mechanic that avoids drowning in anxiety
Character drafting gives thematic flavor and strategic tension
Solid group game with recurring play

Cons

Theme integration can be niche for non-LotR players
Older design may feel dated to some players

Thematic elements

trick-taking bidding where drafted characters have trick targets
Middle-earth, fantasy realm with fellowship characters
theme-forward with mechanic-driven tension

Comparison games

Camel Up

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Character drafting — Before each round, players draft characters that influence bidding goals
Trick-Taking — Players bid and play cards to win a number of tricks; draft characters with stipulations that affect bids

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Cascadia is just one of the best kind of welcoming games.
Time You Killed Me? It's a thinkier two-player game.
That time you killed me—it's even thinkier.
Sim City the board game if there ever was one.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video kzK65R19lbw Broken Mele Discussion at 18:34 sentiment: positive

video_pk 35301 · mention_pk 193299

Click to watch at 18:34 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed_to_positive

Pros

Thematic appeal for LOTR fans
Cohesive trick-taking experience that can be enjoyable with a group

Cons

Not as varied as some other trick-takers (e.g., The Crew)
Artwork and presentation may not be to everyone's taste

Thematic elements

Cooperative trick-taking with chapter-based progression
Middle-earth, Fellowship of the Ring theme

Comparison games

The Crew

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

chapter_progression — Rounds are organized as chapters, each introducing new rules or quirks to manage the evolving challenge.
cooperative_trick_taking — Players work together to achieve round-based objectives, with character-driven quirks and round-long conditions.
Trick-Taking — Players work together to achieve round-based objectives, with character-driven quirks and round-long conditions.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

And, you know, I love trick-taking games, so naturally, I was keen to see what this one is like.
This is a neat little game. Very clever.
The Crew is better. The Crew is a fantastic trick-taking game.
Comfort food can be nice to just play through over and over again.
I hate Concordia.
Replay value doesn't necessarily mean... oh, the game has no replay value.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video GDgtK5bk_6c The Dice Tower Week In Review at 6:22 sentiment: positive

video_pk 35105 · mention_pk 207817

Click to watch at 6:22 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

excellent cooperative trick-taking
improvement over The Fellowship of the Ring version

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)

It is an excellent production. It is everything you've come to maybe know and love about Neuroshima Hex.
Outstanding, man. I love this trick-T game that also includes set collection.
Disappointing. This is basically Forbidden Island, the card game with too few spaces and a little too much swinginess.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 1q6Y4DIzO9M Tabletop Tolson Review at 0:01 sentiment: positive

video_pk 34065 · mention_pk 152248

Click to watch at 0:01 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Strong, immersive theme tied to The Fellowship of the Ring
Engaging cooperative play with clear personal goals
Long campaign with 18 chapters (plus more) enhances replayability
Compact and well-organized production with a helpful rule booklet
Character variety and drafting add strategic depth and role-playing flavor
Simple, accessible entry point with quick rounds (~20 minutes)

Cons

none

Thematic elements

cooperative quest-solving with a chapter-based campaign
Middle-earth, aligned with The Fellowship of the Ring narrative arc
chapter-by-chapter cards that narrate story and guide goals

Comparison games

The Crew

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

chapter/campaign progression — The game uses a stacked chapter deck; there are short and long victory conditions per chapter, unlocking further content as chapters are completed.
Character drafting — Players draft or select a character (e.g., Frodo, Gandalf, Bilbo, Sam, Pippin) whose goals influence play and strategies.
Cooperative Game — Each chapter sets personal and team goals; players must fulfill these to progress and win the chapter.
cooperative, goal-based play — Each chapter sets personal and team goals; players must fulfill these to progress and win the chapter.
Hand Management — During setup, players may exchange cards via a hammer symbol mechanic to optimize starting hands.
hand management and exchange — During setup, players may exchange cards via a hammer symbol mechanic to optimize starting hands.
Limited Communication — Cooperative play with limited or no discussion about hand contents, emphasizing inference and coordination through mechanics.
restricted communication — Cooperative play with limited or no discussion about hand contents, emphasizing inference and coordination through mechanics.
story cards and narration — Each chapter presents a card with story text read to the group, anchoring theme to the fantasy narrative.
Trick-Taking — Players play cards in four suits; highest card of the lead suit wins the trick. The One Ring cards act as a special trump under specific conditions.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is a Cooperative trick-taking game that gives you a quest through Middle Earth
The Fellowship of the Ring trick taking game for one to four players
it's easy to get into and it is a delightful experience
the campaign with 18 is super satisfying
you can keep playing after you finish the chapters
the road goes on forever after you finish the chapters; you can keep playing

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video -h5u2Ghv8tY Board Game Animal Discussion at 7:00 sentiment: positive

video_pk 33665 · mention_pk 211509

Click to watch at 7:00 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Twists from the first game keep the experience fresh
Interplay between deck and powers is engaging
Momentum and replayability

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Continued trick-taking with cooperative/multiple power interactions
Fantasy world in the same framework as Fellowship
Expanded, momentum-driven play

Comparison games

The Fellowship of the Ring Trick Taker

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric Player Powers — Different character powers influence play.
Asymmetric powers — Different character powers influence play.
Cooperative elements — Team-based objectives within a trick-taking structure.
Trick-Taking — Evolves from the first game with deck and card interactions.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

If we can help anybody, even one person discover a game, then mission accomplished.
It really means so much and I can't even begin to express it.
The fact that any one of our videos can make a difference for someone, that is the best feeling.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video ybo8h3BDVHE Board Stupid Discussion at 19:33 sentiment: mixed

video_pk 32824 · mention_pk 210026

Click to watch at 19:33 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

Strong IP familiarity and thematic pull
Potential for broad appeal due to license

Cons

High cost and license risk
Reliance on IP strength rather than original design

Thematic elements

Licensed IP integration; adventuring party mechanics
Middle-earth / fantasy realm
Epic fantasy narrative with familiar IP

Comparison games

Memoir 44
Star Wars Battle for Art (concept referenced)

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Trick-Taking — Card-driven trick-taking with some hand management aligned to theme

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

IP dominance has been a thing this year, in some of those big hitters.
the board game industry operates in the world of very fine margins.
By the time we film something and release it, it's out of date.
We do it for the love of the game.
Two-tier hobbying... two different worlds at that point.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video riFmwc3vYsE kovray Top List at 17:13 sentiment: positive

video_pk 31416 · mention_pk 151825

Click to watch at 17:13 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Thematic, puzzle-like trick-taking
Two-player mode adds depth and replayability

Cons

Can be complex for newcomers to trick-taking

Thematic elements

fantasy adventure and strategy
The Lord of the Rings, two towers arcs, middle-earth

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Trick-Taking — Two-player trick-taking with thematic pyramids and sequence of story chapters

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

My number five is a game called Foxy.
The way you score is so seamless.
It's so cozy.
I've really enjoyed the two-player mode.
There are a ton of different ways to score in this game
I cannot wait to dive into it
I understand the hype.
I will rank Birmingham high after playing more.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video vRlf-fASb8A kovray Top 10 List at 43:49 sentiment: positive

video_pk 27666 · mention_pk 214498

Click to watch at 43:49 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Strong theme for Tolkien fans
Rich table presence and missions

Cons

Long, name-heavy title
Requires many players or long sessions

Thematic elements

Lord of the Rings characters cooperating to achieve goals
Middle-earth, fellowship missions
Epic, cinematic

Comparison games

The Crew: Quest for Planet Nine

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Cooperative trick-taking with full hand play — Players play entire hands to fulfill goals.
Trick-Taking — Players play entire hands to fulfill goals.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

it's one of the first trick taking games that I would think of bringing out to show somebody
I would give this an S
A for me
I give this one an A
the theme is great but still a D
Gummy Trick is fantastically fun
Vivo is a sleeper hit for me

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video q6ycjU3KKLQ BoardGameGeek Interview at 59:20 sentiment: positive

video_pk 1231 · mention_pk 209590

Click to watch at 59:20 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

strong thematic linkage to LOTR
peels back new campaign-oriented play

Cons

requires familiarity with co-op trick-taking

Thematic elements

team-based bidding and coordination
Further LOTR-themed cooperative/trick-taking
story-forward

Comparison games

Fellowship of the Ring
The Crew

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Cooperative trick-taking in a campaign sequence — Continuation of the Fellowship mechanics with new scenarios
Trick-Taking — Continuation of the Fellowship mechanics with new scenarios

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Game night isn't just about the rules. It's about how it feels to play.
No AI art was a big thing.
Indie game markets are a middle sweet spot for me.
I saw 102 movies in the theater last year.
Cheap and stubborn is really what it is.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video H4FYD5XA0vU The Dice Tower Playthrough at 0:09 sentiment: positive

video_pk 1127 · mention_pk 148348

Click to watch at 0:09 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Strong thematic integration with The Lord of the Rings, including character dynamics, flavorful card art, and narrative flavor
Innovative tower mechanic creates meaningful tension and cooperation between players with shared and opposing goals
Appealing for fans of social deduction and social negotiation within a light-to-moderate ruleset

Cons

Rules are intricate and can produce edge cases that slow play or confuse first-time players
Trading and upkeep options require careful tracking, which may slow down rounds for new players
Reliance on players remembering and executing nuanced tower interactions can lead to mistakes

Thematic elements

cooperative-competition under shared Tolkien-verse constraints; towers act as dynamic trump elements, and faction goals drive collaboration and tension
Middle-earth during the events of The Two Towers, with Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli pursuing orcs and navigating a fractured fellowship
playful, meta-narrative within Tolkien’s world; players assume role-based goals and engage in social negotiation around card exchanges

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

exchange and hand management — Players may exchange cards at round start; goals depend on the cards in hand and the suits they need to collect; cooperation and balance are essential to meet combined objectives
Hand Management — Players may exchange cards at round start; goals depend on the cards in hand and the suits they need to collect; cooperation and balance are essential to meet combined objectives
orb/traitor-variant flavor — A traitor-like variant (bismerching) adds social dynamics around who is aligned with whom and how exchanges affect goals
tower mechanic — White Tower holder (Aragorn) wins tricks under the normal trick rules; Black Tower holder teams with the White Tower holder and must coordinate to win a required total of tricks; towers can cancel or trump under certain conditions
Traitor Game — A traitor-like variant (bismerching) adds social dynamics around who is aligned with whom and how exchanges affect goals
Trick-Taking — Four suits (Mountains, Forest, Hills, Shadow) numbered 1-8; two special tower cards (White Tower and Black Tower) can win a trick under certain constraints; Orc cards cannot win a trick unless specific conditions apply
upkeep/tuck — Some characters can tuck a card under their character card at upkeep, removing it from immediate play and affecting follow-suit choices later

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is how you end a spectacular by coming together.
Be careful: the beacons are lit—Gondor calls for aid.
Riders of Rohan shall ride again.
Remember thou art mortal.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

The Fellowship of the Ring Trick-Taking Game - 4p - The Discussion

Fellowship of the Ring: Trick-Taking Game ►►► This had to be the Game for Tolkien Day! (March 25th)

Live Play - Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Trick-Taking Game

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Deck-Building Game

The Fellowship of the Ring Trick-Taking Game - 4p - The Discussion

Fellowship of the Ring: Trick-Taking Game ►►► This had to be the Game for Tolkien Day! (March 25th)

Live Play - Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Trick-Taking Game

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