Trade on the Tigris Teaching Guide Trade on the Tigris Teaching Guide B&amp;W Released: August 15th, 2018  In this episode I teach you to play the game I co-designed with Geoff Engelstein on the Ludology Podcast, Trade on the Tigris.  This game started its life called “Trading in the Mediterranean,” and six years later has finally grown up to be a real life game.  This will likely be the final How to Play Podcast, I hope you enjoy it.  As a special bonus I have created a video for the Hook and the Meat of this episode.  For extra intro and hamster content check out the audio version of the episode.  Thank you so much for listening everyone.

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/TeachingGuides/HTPTeachingGuide46Trade.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trade on the Tigris Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/TeachingGuides/HTPTeachingGuide46TradeBW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trade on the Tigris Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a> Released: August 15th, 2018 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/bluesquarerating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> In this episode I teach you to play the game I co-designed with Geoff Engelstein on the Ludology Podcast, Trade on the Tigris.  This game started its life called “Trading in the Mediterranean,” and six years later has finally grown up to be a real life game.  This will likely be the final How to Play Podcast, I hope you enjoy it.  As a special bonus I have created a video for the Hook and the Meat of this episode.  For extra intro and hamster content check out the audio version of the episode.  Thank you so much for listening everyone.

Episode 46 – Trade on the Tigris

Released: February 18th, 2014      In this episode you get to listen in on Ryan’s explanation of Merchant and Marauders, whose tutorial was won as an item for the Jack Vasel Memorial Fund.  Though not truly an official episode, hopefully it might sate some of your longing for new HTP episodes.

Released: February 18th, 2014 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/blackdiamondrating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> In this episode you get to listen in on Ryan’s explanation of Merchant and Marauders, whose tutorial was won as an item for the Jack Vasel Memorial Fund.  Though not truly an official episode, hopefully it might sate some of your longing for new HTP episodes.

Episode 45 – Merchants and Marauders

Clash of Cultures Teaching Guide Clash of Cultures Teaching Guide BW Released: June 29th, 2013           Show Notes: I present to you Clash of Cultures.  Which is a wonderful civilization game.  This epic meaty strategy game could not be denied an episode of How to Play.  It is highly recommended for fans of the theme and weight of a game this chunky.  Plus as a special treat I am joined by the game’s designer, Christian Marcussen, to help me introduce the game and give you some basic strategy. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 44 Clash of Cultures.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Clash of Cultures Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 44 Clash of Cultures BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Clash of Cultures Teaching Guide BW</a> Released: June 29th, 2013 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/blackdiamondrating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>  Show Notes: I present to you Clash of Cultures.  Which is a wonderful civilization game.  This epic meaty strategy game could not be denied an episode of How to Play.  It is highly recommended for fans of the theme and weight of a game this chunky.  Plus as a special treat I am joined by the game’s designer, Christian Marcussen, to help me introduce the game and give you some basic strategy. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/40765/clash-of-cultures" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 44 – Clash of Cultures

In this episode I pull together several of my dice tower reviews for your listening pleasure while I am taking a bit of a break from producing How to Play. Reviews included are;  Glory to Rome: Black Box Edition 1989 High Frontier Urban Sprawl Runewars The Settlers of Catan: Traders and Barbarians  Enjoy!

In this episode I pull together several of my dice tower reviews for your listening pleasure while I am taking a bit of a break from producing How to Play. Reviews included are; <ul> <li>Glory to Rome: Black Box Edition</li> <li>1989</li> <li>High Frontier</li> <li>Urban Sprawl</li> <li>Runewars</li> <li>The Settlers of Catan: Traders and Barbarians</li> </ul> Enjoy!

Episode L – Ryan’s Reviews

 Merchant of Venus Teaching Guide  Merchant of Venus Teaching Guide BW Released: January 1st, 2013          Game Description: Merchant of Venus.  A wonderful blending of the excitement of an exploration game with the strategy of an economic game.  It is a fabulous adventure through space.  With the recent rerelease of this classic you can now play this game without having to cut out 437 circles and affix them the wooden discs.  Fantasy Flight Games’ new release of Merchant of Venus allows you to play the classic version from 1988 or try out their updated version of the game.  I focus my explanation of the classic game but discuss both versions of the game at length.  Plus, I could not do this episode without asking one of my friends to come along for the ride.  I hope you enjoy the episode. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 43 Merchant of Venus.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Merchant of Venus Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 43 Merchant of Venus BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Merchant of Venus Teaching Guide BW</a> Released: January 1st, 2013 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/blackdiamondrating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description: Merchant of Venus.  A wonderful blending of the excitement of an exploration game with the strategy of an economic game.  It is a fabulous adventure through space.  With the recent rerelease of this classic you can now play this game without having to cut out 437 circles and affix them the wooden discs.  Fantasy Flight Games’ new release of Merchant of Venus allows you to play the classic version from 1988 or try out their updated version of the game.  I focus my explanation of the classic game but discuss both versions of the game at length.  Plus, I could not do this episode without asking one of my friends to come along for the ride.  I hope you enjoy the episode. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/131646/merchant-of-venus-second-edition" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 43 – Merchant of Venus

Ora &amp; Labora Teaching Guide Ora &amp; Labora Teaching Guide BW Released: November 17th, 2012         Show Notes: Its time to cover Uwe Rosenberg’s third great resource management game, Ora et Labora.  This game enhances his previously developed ideas by adding a geographical element to the game.  If you like his previous works of Agricola and Le Havre, you pretty much guaranteed to enjoy this one as well. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 42 Ora.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ora &amp; Labora Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 42 Ora BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ora &amp; Labora Teaching Guide BW</a> Released: November 17th, 2012 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2blackdiamond.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>  Show Notes: Its time to cover Uwe Rosenberg’s third great resource management game, Ora et Labora.  This game enhances his previously developed ideas by adding a geographical element to the game.  If you like his previous works of Agricola and Le Havre, you pretty much guaranteed to enjoy this one as well. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/70149/ora-et-labora" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 42 – Ora et Labora

Mage Knight Teaching Guide Mage Knight Teaching Guide B&amp;W  Released: October 27th, 2012   Show Notes: So you say you want a great solo game experience to get your geek on when nobody’s around? Mage Knight is your game.  Its a wonderful thematic fantasy adventure game with a strong puzzle element which makes it particularly well suited to play on your own. Or enjoy Mage Knight with a friend or two.  This game feels like Magic Realm for this generation, the same great experience with about 70 less pages of rules.  Enjoy! Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 41 Mage Knight.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mage Knight Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 41 Mage Knight BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mage Knight Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a><a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Game Pictures/mageknight.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> </a> Released: October 27th, 2012 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2blackdiamond.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>  Show Notes: So you say you want a great solo game experience to get your geek on when nobody’s around? Mage Knight is your game.  Its a wonderful thematic fantasy adventure game with a strong puzzle element which makes it particularly well suited to play on your own. Or enjoy Mage Knight with a friend or two.  This game feels like Magic Realm for this generation, the same great experience with about 70 less pages of rules.  Enjoy! <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/96848/mage-knight-board-game" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 41 – Mage Knight

Goa Teaching Guide Goa Teaching Guide BW Released: September 30th, 2012     Show Notes: Today I cover one of the greats of the “eurogame” genre.  This game has a wonderful auction system and delicious decisions.  Even better it has just been rereleased in an even improved version of an excellent game just recently in August of 2012.  I invite you to enjoy Goa: A New Expedition Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 40 Goa.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Goa Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 40 Goa BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Goa Teaching Guide BW</a> Released: September 30th, 2012 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/blackdiamondrating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Show Notes: Today I cover one of the greats of the “eurogame” genre.  This game has a wonderful auction system and delicious decisions.  Even better it has just been rereleased in an even improved version of an excellent game just recently in August of 2012.  I invite you to enjoy Goa: A New Expedition <a href="http://boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/9216/goa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 40 – Goa

Eclipse Teaching Guide Eclipse Teaching Guide BW   Released: August 8th, 2012     Show Notes: Today I cover Eclipse which was the overwhelming favorite as the next game to be covered by How to Play as chosen by the supporters.  Eclipse is an amazingly fun 4x game.  What is a 4x game?  Well you can be a fancy gamer like me and use cool terms like “4x” after listening to this episode.  Learn the hottest game of the last few years and one of the most fun with this episode. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 39 Eclipse.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eclipse Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 39 Eclipse BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eclipse Teaching Guide BW</a> Released: August 8th, 2012 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/blackdiamondrating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Show Notes: Today I cover Eclipse which was the overwhelming favorite as the next game to be covered by How to Play as chosen by the supporters.  Eclipse is an amazingly fun 4x game.  What is a 4x game?  Well you can be a fancy gamer like me and use cool terms like “4x” after listening to this episode.  Learn the hottest game of the last few years and one of the most fun with this episode. <a href="http://boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/72125/eclipse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 39 – Eclipse

Rex Teaching Guide   Rex Teaching Guide (B&amp;W)   Released: July 11th, 2012      Show Notes: You want a great theme with strong mechanics, Rex fits the bill.  The six colorful races of Rex fight it out for control of the universe, six races who were begging and pleading me to appear on the show as silly voices.  Developing characters for this episode was easy because the characters within the game are so interesting and is probably the thing I enjoy most about this game.  This game truly has characters as well as a nice setting, and a plot that develops throughout each turn.  This game feels like an interactive story, which I enjoy very much.  Dune, Shmune.  The owners of the Dune property were foolish to let this wonderful game design be separated from their brand, but good for Fantasy Flight for losing none of the magic by utilizing their own unique characters to tell the story offered by this game yet retaining the brilliance of a classic game design. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/episodes/htp teaching guide38 rex.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rex Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/episodes/htp teaching guide38 rex bw.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rex Teaching Guide (B&amp;W)</a> Released: July 11th, 2012 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/blackdiamondrating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Show Notes: You want a great theme with strong mechanics, Rex fits the bill.  The six colorful races of Rex fight it out for control of the universe, six races who were begging and pleading me to appear on the show as silly voices.  Developing characters for this episode was easy because the characters within the game are so interesting and is probably the thing I enjoy most about this game.  This game truly has characters as well as a nice setting, and a plot that develops throughout each turn.  This game feels like an interactive story, which I enjoy very much.  Dune, Shmune.  The owners of the Dune property were foolish to let this wonderful game design be separated from their brand, but good for Fantasy Flight for losing none of the magic by utilizing their own unique characters to tell the story offered by this game yet retaining the brilliance of a classic game design. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/104363/rex-final-days-of-an-empire" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 38 – Rex

Welcome to the home of the How to Play Podcast; A Podcast about learning and teaching games. We all know that the best way to learn a game is to have it taught to you by someone who knows the game well. That is what The How to Play Podcast is all about. Its like you are hearing an explanation of how to play a game from your wittiest, best looking and most charming friend. You don’t have a friend like that? Thank goodness, that guy would set the bar for me far too high, and in that case I’m sure that you will think these game explanations are fantastic. How to Play is a tool for learning, and learning to teach, games. Each explanation is carefully handcrafted for your listening pleasure. As an added bonus you might get a bit of strategy, some musings on various board game topics and assorted special lettered episodes all for the low, low price of free. Check it out.

Love the show, I enjoy learn from this so I can teach others.

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How To Play Podcast » Podcast

Teaching Guide for Settlers Teaching Guide for Settlers BW Released: April 15th, 2012   Original Show Notes: Settlers of Catan is my favorite game strictly for fun player interaction.  Each game involves negotiation, diplomacy and lots of laughs.  This game is responsible for my rediscovery and current addiction and indirectly for entirety of the existence of The How to Play Podcast.  It deserves its own episode and here it is.  Everyone needs to know this game. I will take this opportunity to show off my daughter Gwen utilizing her negotiation skills…  Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/htp teaching guide 36 settlers.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Teaching Guide for Settlers</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/htp teaching guide 36 settlers bw.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Teaching Guide for Settlers BW</a> Released: April 15th, 2012 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/bluesquarerating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Original Show Notes: Settlers of Catan is my favorite game strictly for fun player interaction.  Each game involves negotiation, diplomacy and lots of laughs.  This game is responsible for my rediscovery and current addiction and indirectly for entirety of the existence of The How to Play Podcast.  It deserves its own episode and here it is.  Everyone needs to know this game. I will take this opportunity to show off my daughter Gwen utilizing her negotiation skills… <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/gwen settlers.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/13/the-settlers-of-catan" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 36 – The Settlers of Catan

 Dominant Species Teaching Guide  Dominant Species Teaching Guide B&amp;W Released: January 2nd, 2011          Game Description: This worker placement game takes you through the evolution of a species.  You will be forced to adapt both your species and you can affect your environment in order to become THE dominant species. Original Show Notes: Try out the latest evolution in worker placement games, Dominant Species. This is my favorite game of 2010, and in my top ten games of all time. It contains all the things I love in my games, difficult decisions, an integrated theme and a great game experience. Learn to play it from this episode. Also be sure to check out the interview that was paired with this episode.  A discussion on the evolution of game mechanics with Geoff Engelstein.  This is the discussion that started its own podcast the Ludology podcast with Geoff and Myself. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-24-Dominant-Species.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Dominant Species Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-24-Dominant-Species-BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Dominant Species Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a> Released: January 2nd, 2011 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2blackdiamond.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description: This worker placement game takes you through the evolution of a species.  You will be forced to adapt both your species and you can affect your environment in order to become THE dominant species. Original Show Notes: Try out the latest evolution in worker placement games, Dominant Species. This is my favorite game of 2010, and in my top ten games of all time. It contains all the things I love in my games, difficult decisions, an integrated theme and a great game experience. Learn to play it from this episode. <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/special-episodes/episodes-a-g/episode-g-evolution-of-game-mechanics/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Also be sure to check out the interview that was paired with this episode.</a>  A discussion on the evolution of game mechanics with Geoff Engelstein.  This is the discussion that started its own podcast<a href="http://www.ludology.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> the Ludology podcast</a> with Geoff and Myself. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/62219/dominant-species" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 24 – Dominant Species

Magic Realm Teaching Guide  Magic Realm Teaching Guide B&amp;W Released: September 2nd, 2010          Game Description: Magic Realm is an older game that attempted to recreate the classic fantasy roleplaying game experience and recreate it as a boardgame.  In order to do so the designer included a LOT of mechanics, in order to recreate as much of the experience as possible. Original Show Notes: It is finished. Come explore Magic Realm, THE MOST COMPLICATED BOARD GAME OF ALL TIME. This 1978 classic adventure fantasy game has long been deemed unapproachable by most, hopefully this episode can change that. In this episode I will give you a basic walk through of playing the most basic version of the game. And the best part is you can play along with me using the Robin Warren’s fantastic computer version of the game RealmSpeak. (available at www.realmspeak.dewkid.com) I will help you through the basics of your first few games, teaching you the goals of the game, the basic steps of a turn and the combat system. In no time you will be able to dive in deeper with the other 15 characters, exploring the magic system, hiring the native populations and more. Enjoy exploring the Magic Realm. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-20-Magic-Realm.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Magic Realm Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-20-Magic-Realm-BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Magic Realm Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a> Released: September 2nd, 2010 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/4blackdiamond.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description: Magic Realm is an older game that attempted to recreate the classic fantasy roleplaying game experience and recreate it as a boardgame.  In order to do so the designer included a LOT of mechanics, in order to recreate as much of the experience as possible. Original Show Notes: It is finished. Come explore Magic Realm, THE MOST COMPLICATED BOARD GAME OF ALL TIME. This 1978 classic adventure fantasy game has long been deemed unapproachable by most, hopefully this episode can change that. In this episode I will give you a basic walk through of playing the most basic version of the game. And the best part is you can play along with me using the Robin Warren’s fantastic computer version of the game RealmSpeak. (available at <a href="http://www.realmspeak.dewkid.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.realmspeak.dewkid.com</a>) I will help you through the basics of your first few games, teaching you the goals of the game, the basic steps of a turn and the combat system. In no time you will be able to dive in deeper with the other 15 characters, exploring the magic system, hiring the native populations and more. Enjoy exploring the Magic Realm. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/22/magic-realm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 20 – Magic Realm

Le Havre Teaching Guide  Le Havre Teaching Guide B&amp;W Released: July 21st, 2010          Game Description: Another great worker placement game.  Each turn you are simply making the choice of taking a pile of resources or using a building.  But which resources to take or which building to use?  Decisions, Decisions… Original Show Notes: This time around I cover Uwe Rosenberg’s other game, Le Havre. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite games. The mechanics of the game are simple but navigating the strategy can be quite challenging, hopefully listening to this show can give you a leg up on your first few plays of this great game or on how to teach this game. In the musings for this game I muse on Honesty and compare Le Havre to some similar games. Special Note: In the description for this game I talk a bit about how terrible loans are.  Well they aren’t quite as bad as I thought as when I recorded the episode.  The reason being that no matter how many loans you have you only pay one interest.  This opens up the possibility for a strategy to use loans as a way to get ahead.  I always pay off my credit cards, so I tend to avoid this strategy. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-17-Le-Havre.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Le Havre Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-17-Le-Havre-BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Le Havre Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a> Released: July 21st, 2010 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2blackdiamond.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description: Another great worker placement game.  Each turn you are simply making the choice of taking a pile of resources or using a building.  But which resources to take or which building to use?  Decisions, Decisions… Original Show Notes: This time around I cover Uwe Rosenberg’s other game, Le Havre. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite games. The mechanics of the game are simple but navigating the strategy can be quite challenging, hopefully listening to this show can give you a leg up on your first few plays of this great game or on how to teach this game. In the musings for this game I muse on Honesty and compare Le Havre to some similar games. Special Note: In the description for this game I talk a bit about how terrible loans are.  Well they aren’t quite as bad as I thought as when I recorded the episode.  The reason being that no matter how many loans you have you only pay one interest.  This opens up the possibility for a strategy to use loans as a way to get ahead.  I always pay off my credit cards, so I tend to avoid this strategy. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/35677/le-havre" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 17 – Le Havre

Date Released: February 12th, 2012  Description: In this third “How to Win” episode I tackle Through the Ages with my good friend and fellow TTA fan, Geoff Englestein.

Date Released: February 12th, 2012  Description: In this third “How to Win” episode I tackle Through the Ages with my good friend and fellow TTA fan, Geoff Englestein.

Episode 29w – How to Win Through the Ages

In this episode I dig into the universe of Catan and the works of Klaus Teuber.  This episode will give a basic overview of the expansions, variants, scenarios, spinoffs and other assorted Klaus Teuber games.

In this episode I dig into the universe of Catan and the works of Klaus Teuber.  This episode will give a basic overview of the expansions, variants, scenarios, spinoffs and other assorted Klaus Teuber games.

Episode 36x – Expansions and Spinoffs in the Catan Series

 Notre Dame Teaching Guide  Notre Dame Teaching Guide B&amp;W Released: November 22nd, 2010          Game Description: This unique game is all about resource management.  You can never run out of money or cubes, you must always fight off the rat threat and somehow in between find a way to score points. Original Show Notes: I’m back. This time I cover a favorite from 2007, Stefan Feld’s Notre Dame. If you have yet to play this one you are missing out on a gem, quick to pick up, moderate play time, but with a ton of strategy and tension. Great Fun! In the musings I discuss a new found disease in the gamer community and as a bonus give you an overview of some of my favorites of Stefan Feld’s other games. Component pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-23-Notre-Dame.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Notre Dame Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-23-Notre-Dame-BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Notre Dame Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a> Released: November 22nd, 2010 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/bluesquarerating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description: This unique game is all about resource management.  You can never run out of money or cubes, you must always fight off the rat threat and somehow in between find a way to score points. Original Show Notes: I’m back. This time I cover a favorite from 2007, Stefan Feld’s Notre Dame. If you have yet to play this one you are missing out on a gem, quick to pick up, moderate play time, but with a ton of strategy and tension. Great Fun! In the musings I discuss a new found disease in the gamer community and as a bonus give you an overview of some of my favorites of Stefan Feld’s other games. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/25554/notre-dame" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 23 – Notre Dame

Released: August 14th, 2010 Show Description: This episode hopes to inspire you to give painting miniatures a try. I start with a motivational speech and then launch into equipment you need to paint your game pieces. I follow that with a brief description of the basics of painting miniatures and include a few of the most popular techniques. A few years ago I taught myself to paint game pieces. It’s not the best paint jobs you will ever see but it just goes to show you that any average joe with a bit of time and effort, can paint a pretty decent set of game pieces. Ryan’s Painting Projects Shadows Over Camelot This was our first project. My wife helped me put together this set and I am happy with how it turned out. From this…     To This…             Robo Rally Next were these cute robots, pewter version not the plastic From this…  To This…       Empire Builder Time for some trains for Crayon Rails. (Note the R for ryan and KLS for my wife  ) From this…  To This…  Age of Empires These pieces are too hard to tell apart, needs a paint job. Too many pieces? How about the “dip method.” From this…  To This…           Heroquest Uh Oh running out of stuff to paint.. How about this game from my childhood. From this…                          To This…                    The World Cup Game From this…  To This…

Released: August 14th, 2010 Show Description: This episode hopes to inspire you to give painting miniatures a try. I start with a motivational speech and then launch into equipment you need to paint your game pieces. I follow that with a brief description of the basics of painting miniatures and include a few of the most popular techniques. A few years ago I taught myself to paint game pieces. It’s not the best paint jobs you will ever see but it just goes to show you that any average joe with a bit of time and effort, can paint a pretty decent set of game pieces. <h1>Ryan’s Painting Projects</h1> <h2>Shadows Over Camelot</h2> This was our first project. My wife helped me put together this set and I am happy with how it turned out. From this… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/80103" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/102193" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> To This… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784265" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784266" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784267" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784269" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2>Robo Rally</h2> Next were these cute robots, pewter version not the plastic From this… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/73638" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> To This… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784285" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784284" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2>Empire Builder</h2> Time for some trains for Crayon Rails. (Note the R for ryan and KLS for my wife ) From this… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/119487" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> To This… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784283" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2>Age of Empires</h2> These pieces are too hard to tell apart, needs a paint job. Too many pieces? How about the “dip method.” From this… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/227201" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> To This… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784294" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784290" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784292" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784295" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2>Heroquest</h2> Uh Oh running out of stuff to paint.. How about this game from my childhood. From this… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/432562" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/432564" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/432565" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/432566" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/432567" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/432568" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/432569" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/432570" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/432571" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> To This… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784272" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784273" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784274" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784275" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784276" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784277" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/784278" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> <h2>The World Cup Game</h2> From this… <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/274524" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> To This…

Episode E – How to Paint Miniatures

Die Burgen von Burgund Teaching Guide Die Burgen von Burgund Teaching Guide BW Released: January 17th, 2012          Game Description: A great medium weight game couples game.  In this game players are simply choosing tiles and adding them to their “estate” to score points.  So simple yet so many interesting decisions to make.  One of my favorite newer releases. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/htp teaching guide 34 die burgen.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Die Burgen von Burgund Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/htp teaching guide 34 die burgen bw.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Die Burgen von Burgund Teaching Guide BW</a> Released: January 17th, 2012 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/bluesquarerating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description: A great medium weight game couples game.  In this game players are simply choosing tiles and adding them to their “estate” to score points.  So simple yet so many interesting decisions to make.  One of my favorite newer releases. <a href="http://boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/84876/the-castles-of-burgundy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 34 – Die Burgen von Burgund

Carson City Teaching Guide  Carson City Teaching Guide B&amp;W Released: May 6th, 2012        Game Description:  It’s Caylus … but with guns!  That’s right, if you don’t like that your neighbor placed his cowboy in that box, well then just put your man in there and cock your pistol hum the good, the bad and the ugly theme song.  Give this Wild West Worker Placement game a shot, I think you will have a rootin’ tootin’ good time.

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 37 Carson City.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carson City Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/Teaching Guides/HTP Teaching Guide 37 Carson City BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Carson City Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a> Released: May 6th, 2012 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/blackdiamondrating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description:  It’s Caylus … but with guns!  That’s right, if you don’t like that your neighbor placed his cowboy in that box, well then just put your man in there and cock your pistol hum the good, the bad and the ugly theme song.  Give this Wild West Worker Placement game a shot, I think you will have a rootin’ tootin’ good time.

Episode 37 – Carson City

Alhambra Teaching Guide  Alhambra Teaching Guide B&amp;W Released: August 4th, 2010          Game Description: Today we cover a fabulous gateway game, Alhambra. This is a great midweight game to bring out with family or friends. This game is a clever mix of set collection and tile placement with the theme of building the Alhambra. In the musings I discuss the topic of attempting to turn your family or friends into gamers, can it be done and how? I also go over the other games in the Alhambra line and revisit my occasional tendencies towards silliness. I hope you enjoy. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-18-Alhambra.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alhambra Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-18-Alhambra-BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Alhambra Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a> Released: August 4th, 2010 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/bluesquarerating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description: Today we cover a fabulous gateway game, Alhambra. This is a great midweight game to bring out with family or friends. This game is a clever mix of set collection and tile placement with the theme of building the Alhambra. In the musings I discuss the topic of attempting to turn your family or friends into gamers, can it be done and how? I also go over the other games in the Alhambra line and revisit my occasional tendencies towards silliness. I hope you enjoy. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/6249/alhambra" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 18 – Alhambra

Released: January 2nd, 2011 Original Show Notes: So here is an extended musings to go along with Episode #24 on the evolution of board game mechanics. Fortunately I had the chance to discuss this with Gametek’s Geoff Engelstein. We have about a 40 minute discussion that ranges from the evolution of recent mechanics, to obsolescence of games to the future of board games. I hope you enjoy it. Special Note: This episode was the birth of what was to become the spin-off podcast “Ludology.”  We had so much fun doing this talk together that we thought we could develop a series of analytical game discussions into a regular podcast.  The show has developed a loyal following with nearly 20 episodes. If you like this episode be sure to check out “Ludology” at www.ludology.net 

Released: January 2nd, 2011 Original Show Notes: So here is an extended musings to go along with Episode #24 on the evolution of board game mechanics. Fortunately I had the chance to discuss this with Gametek’s Geoff Engelstein. We have about a 40 minute discussion that ranges from the evolution of recent mechanics, to obsolescence of games to the future of board games. I hope you enjoy it. Special Note: This episode was the birth of what was to become the spin-off podcast “Ludology.”  We had so much fun doing this talk together that we thought we could develop a series of analytical game discussions into a regular podcast.  The show has developed a loyal following with nearly 20 episodes. If you like this episode be sure to check out “Ludology” at <a href="http://www.ludology.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.ludology.net </a>

Episode G – Evolution of Game Mechanics

Colosseum Teaching Guide Colosseum Teaching Guide B&amp;W Released: October 1st, 2010          Game Description: This is one of my favorite mid-weight games.  This game is about collecting various assets such as gladiators, musicians and scenery to put on shows in your own roman colosseum.  It has a lot of interactive elements and will keep you engaged the whole time.  Original Show Notes: It’s great to be back. This one has been asked for multiple times, and it happens to be one of my favorite games, Colosseum. We get back to business with a good old fashioned Euro Game. In this episode I will explain to you how to put on the greatest spectacle Rome has ever seen. In the musings I will share a story about outside relationships being brought into games and compare Colosseum to Princes of Florence. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-21-Colosseum.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Colosseum Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/HTP-Teaching-Guide-21-Colosseum-BW.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Colosseum Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a> Released: October 1st, 2010 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/bluesquarerating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description: This is one of my favorite mid-weight games.  This game is about collecting various assets such as gladiators, musicians and scenery to put on shows in your own roman colosseum.  It has a lot of interactive elements and will keep you engaged the whole time. Original Show Notes: It’s great to be back. This one has been asked for multiple times, and it happens to be one of my favorite games, Colosseum. We get back to business with a good old fashioned Euro Game. In this episode I will explain to you how to put on the greatest spectacle Rome has ever seen. In the musings I will share a story about outside relationships being brought into games and compare Colosseum to Princes of Florence. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/27746/colosseum" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 21 – Colosseum

Twilight Struggle Teaching Guide Twilight Struggle Teaching Guide B&amp;W Released: March 25th, 2012    Game Description: USA vs USSR.  The struggle to alter the course of human history.  Twilight struggle is a two player card driven game with the well integrated theme of the cold war.  Twilight Struggle is one of the greatest games of this generation, it’s a wonderful game experience.  Learn it, teach it, play it you will be glad you did. Component Pictures on BGG

<a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/htp teaching guide 35 twilight struggle.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twilight Struggle Teaching Guide</a> <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/htp teaching guide 35 twilight struggle bw.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twilight Struggle Teaching Guide B&amp;W</a> Released: March 25th, 2012 <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/blackdiamondrating.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Game Description: USA vs USSR.  The struggle to alter the course of human history.  Twilight struggle is a two player card driven game with the well integrated theme of the cold war.  Twilight Struggle is one of the greatest games of this generation, it’s a wonderful game experience.  Learn it, teach it, play it you will be glad you did. <a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/images/thing/12333/twilight-struggle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Component Pictures on BGG</a>

Episode 35 – Twilight Struggle

In this episode I talk about the games that I played this year, muse on the year in gaming and present an updated list for my Top 50 favorite games of all time.  I discuss all games I played many are new and some are older games. Here is the list  games: How to Play’s top 50 games as of 2011

In this episode I talk about the games that I played this year, muse on the year in gaming and present an updated list for my Top 50 favorite games of all time.  I discuss all games I played many are new and some are older games. Here is the list  games: <a href="http://howtoplaypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/htp%20top%2050%202011.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to Play’s top 50 games as of 2011</a>

Episode H – 2011 Review and Top 50 Update

Episode I – All I Really Need to Know

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