[Ryan] Without a doubt, April was the month of Tumblin’ Dice. Newly added to the collection, I logged a remarkable 66 plays in one month! Such an easy game to pull out in so many different kinds of social situations, providing a fun and lively experience for a variety of ages. A game I have been aware of since 2009, but finally added the new edition to my collection and couldn’t be more pleased with it!

[Daniel] While I was in Colorado taking some time off, I had the chance to try out a few of the latest board games Ryan has picked up—most notably Planet Unknown. Of all the games I played, this one impressed me the most! It had everything I love in a board game: beautiful presentation, simultaneous play, challenging polyomino decisions, and tons of satisfying combos—all packed into about an hour. I played it twice, and it instantly jumped to the top of my wishlist.

[Ryan] Great Western Trail remains one of the freshest heavier strategy games that I have played in recent years, really differentiating itself from other games at the same weight in my collection. Nice to get it back to the table, and I still really enjoy the variety that the Rails of the North expansion adds to the delivery phase. It was also fun to pull off a strong craftsmen strategy, taking advantage of powerful buildings more than I ever have in previous games.

[Daniel] Another one of Ryan’s games I got to try was Innovation: Ultimate Edition. I don’t think I’ve ever played a game where your situation can shift so drastically from turn to turn. It’s incredibly tactical—which I love—and definitely one that has piqued my interest going forward.

[Ryan] It is weird to be looking for a relatively quick game at the end of a game night and pull out the behemoth of a box that is Foundations of Rome, but it really thrives as a “big” game that remains accessible and easy to get to the table. With the more budget “Foundations of Metropolis” now existing, I have to admit that it is probably the right choice for most people, but I can’t deny that the extravagant original edition has amazing table presence!