Board Game Hot Takes

92
Games #64

We tell you how a board game experience felt - just minutes after we finish playing. Three unique points of view. No non-game nonsense.

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Recent Reviews
  • joshgmorgan
    Listening to friends
    This is a fantastic podcast by a group of friends who truly enjoy games. Their different styles and different outlooks on games is very informative, interesting, and entertaining. The fact that they are willing to play games with listeners on BGA is unique from any other podcast. Thanks for playing and putting out the podcast. Josh Morgan
  • Danimatorx
    Keepin it classy
    As a long time listener, I appreciate the genuine opinions and the diverse gaming preference of these hosts. When I listen to the podcast it reminds me of hanging with my local game group and the discussions we have. While their opinions can vary greatly from one another, they critique in a manner which is tactful. It’s easy for podcasters/YouTubers to be negative to get clicks but these guys review with class. I appreciate what you all do for the community and look forward to listening each week. Well done gents. -Dan M
  • Akitagod
    Fun to listen to
    This show is a rarity of sorts, because it appeals to both people who are casual about board games as well as the more invested player. Being an aspiring board game designer about to launch my first crowdfunding campaign, I have found the hosts insightful and informative. Listening to them is a reminder of the type of friends I want to make games for.
  • Mgs72
    Excellent
    September 9, 2024 episode. Ticket to Ride London, Amsterdam, Berlin and Paris would like to disagree with you that TTR New York and San Fran are the only TTR cities games. 🙂 “Easily, my favorite board games podcast. Well thought out, clear and concise opinions. Constructive and respectful tone without the need for yelling or unnecessary expletives. Great sound quality. For as long as they keeping releasing episodes, I’ll listen to them.”
  • Thejuice027
    10 out of 10 Will always enjoy listening!
    I love listening to Tim, Chris, and Adam every week. I'm currently an Uber driver (laid off software engineer) and I am on the road a lot and this podcast just makes my time on the road fly much faster than when listening to music or nothing at all. I really enjoy listening to the games I already have just to listen to their opinions. I also listen to the episodes on new games to get a feel how they play before I buy (I don't look up games on YouTube like I should). Anyways great show as always keep up the good work. -FinalGirlGuy (YouTube)
  • jjmac42
    Great show
    I love this boardgame podcast. Started listening recently this year and enjoyed it so much that I’ve gone back and listened to all the past episodes. The discussions about each game or topic are highly informative and I appreciate all of the different viewpoints from the group. Finally, I appreciate the mention about inclusivity and making sure all gamers know they are welcome at the gaming table.
  • Kkudjndyd
    Oof
    First episode I listened to(top three production pet peeves) was pretty good until they went on a bizarrely racist/sexist tangent in the middle.
  • Warren.C.824
    Great show - highly recommend it
    I found this show a little more than a year ago, on a road trip from York, PA to Savannah, GA. The format was quick, entertaining, and honest, with a bit of trash-talk every once in a while, so I was quickly drawn to it. I went back to listen to every episode, and it was so interesting to hear the show evolve. It was also interesting to hear about the games they wanted to play, the shelves of opportunity, and/or the kick-starters on back-order that I knew were covered in a future episode. I bounced-around a lot, but I listened to the final episode this morning, and it just happened to be the 1-year anniversary show. I felt like I already knew the personalities, but on this particular show, they talked about how the show got started, what got them into board gaming, and what they did for work, to name a few. A big shout out to the guys for the time and effort that I’m sure goes into the show each week. Now that I’m all caught up, the only remaining question is…when will they be switching it to two episodes a week?? Thanks for helping to make long road trips, seem so short. Keep up the good work!!
  • aspenty
    The best boardgame podcast
    I love the rapport these guys have, and I like that they offer diverse, honest opinions on games. If I’m considering buying a particular game, I always check to see what these guys thought about it first.
  • dafettman4
    I Appreciate the Hot Takes
    I appreciate the diversity of opinions and approaches to the hobby that this cast brings. It’s important to not fall prey to confirmation bias when it comes to reviewing games, and I enjoy the meaty discussions at this table. My only suggestion for improvement is to work on pronouncing Teotihuacan. It’s tay-oh-tea-wah-khan. Other than that, unconditional love.
  • mkarazim
    Keep it up!
    I’m writing this review in response to a comment that was made in the last episode (Top 3 Production Pet Peeves) where it was mentioned that every time you bring up inclusion in games, you get some negative ratings. I just wanted to counteract that inevitable negative rating and leave a positive review and rating. I’ve been listening for a couple of years now and your podcast is the only game podcast that I listen to. I’m female and I appreciate very much that you acknowledge that it’s not just men that play games. I enjoy the group dynamic between Chris, Adam, and Tim so much. Keep up the good work and I will be a loyal fan as long as you guys keep making the podcast.
  • cptwothree
    Best board game chat to listen to
    This has quickly become my favorite podcast for gaming, and I eagerly wait for each episode weekly. The diversity of interests, playing styles, and opinions make it one of the best to get a well rounded view of a game or topic. I decided to leave a review after their recent episode. They covered production pet peeves and the crew mentioned diversity and representation being a big factor for them to table a game. As a black board game designer and content creator, that made me a super fan, and feel welcome. I’ve got one game out in the market, and have more coming with my publishing company. I hope one day the crew will get a chance to play my game, cuz they’re the coolest out there. Much love from Memphis!
  • KJ-MJ
    Great Game Commentary
    The top 40* lists are awesome to listen to—really drew me in and got me excited about new games to try without being pushy, gatekeepy, or sucking the fun out of the hobby. I’ve been working backwards through the episodes to pick up more recommendations and enjoying the banter along the way. I especially love hearing about sci-fi games that weren’t yet on my radar Disclaimer: If you’re not a fan of heavy euro-style and/or sci-fi themes, this might not be the game list for you.
  • Lightin McQueen
    5-Star Podcast!
    I love this podcast. 2 years of listening and still look forward to every Monday! I love when they have a guest player/voice on the show it’s cool to get a different take every few episodes. These guys have changed my outlook on games. I recently tried Ark Nova and Apiary based on this podcast. I love this podcast and listen to and from work everyday
  • dv8cipher
    BGHT, a commuter’s best friend
    This gaming buddy trio has graced my car speakers for the last nine months during my evening commute, and I have yet to regret the time spent with them. The featured tongue-in-cheek banter combined with thoughtful analysis has inspired me to grab many of the titles featured on the show and rejoin the post-pandemic tabletop gaming community. In addition, the show has significantly improved my mental health; I scream a lot less over my steering wheel and no longer wish that motorists who fail to use their turn signal expire from anxiety attacks while drowning in giant vats of flan. Keep up the excellent work!
  • chesirec
    I made a mistake listening to this podcast!
    Found these guys looking for a review on Anachrony and checked out the episode. I wanted to check out some other episodes on games I was interested in. What a mistake! I chose to mark episodes I planned to skip as “Played” for organizational purposes. Now the problem is, these guys are so good that now that I want to hear the rest of the backlog episodes I can’t see which ones I’ve already listened to! So enjoy the extra listen counts; it’s worth it! The guys are honest, frank, and funny. They deliver great insight on games and thankfully include a mix of new and older games of various types for those of us that are relatively new to the scene. I also appreciate that they do not avoid being critical of popular games, but instead provide thoughtful feedback. Their dynamic personalities and preferences really give a varied and comprehensive scope of the gaming world, all while making you feel like you’re hanging with a group of friends. Thanks for the awesome work guys! Looking forward to finishing the catalogue. And just for the record, Team Chris all the way!
  • braidynsharp
    My First and Only Board Game Podcast
    This is my first and only board game podcast I will listen to. It’s that good! This was the first board game podcast recommended to me when I started getting into board games. The structure of the podcast is perfect it’s easy to understand. Simple but detailed reviews, that’s straight to the point. The host Tim, Chris, and Adam do a great job discussing about their separate opinions, and feelings, on the current game. Also love hearing their Top 5 list and one of my favorite episodes was when Tim went to the BGG Con, such a cool episode, didn’t want Tim to stop talking about it. Sounded like so much fun! I really want to go a board game con now! The cherry on the top is the poll questions and what games they have been playing recently. Wouldn’t change a single thing about this podcast! Because it’s the perfect board game podcast!
  • Brookz211
    My Weekly Joy
    This is fantastic pod cast that provides thoughtful and honest reviews of the games they’ve just played. As the title says this is my weekly joy and my most anticipated podcast. It’s a joy to listen to these friends talk to each other about board games. I don’t normally write reviews but my New Years Resolution is to give thanks to the things that bring me joy.
  • edwardhenry3
    the best board game podcast
    I’ve been a listener for nearly two years, and there’s no better board game podcast out there. As someone who listens to quite a few, the main thing that makes BGHT stand out is the tightness of the episodes, which are short, sweet, and to the point—without sacrificing any depth or fun. I don’t know how these guys have so expertly mastered the art of being funny and charming to listen to while keeping their banter to a minimum. It’s honestly so impressive. My second favorite part is how clear Tim, Chris, and Adam are about the things they like and dislike, and why. Over time, it’s been easy for me to figure out where my own taste aligns or doesn’t with theirs, which makes their takes super-valuable to me. Keep up the great work, guys! Oh, and I’m Team Adam, for sure.
  • P Haupt
    They cost me a lot of money…. In a good way
    My current favorite board games podcast. The reviews are very easy to understand and they have made me purchase way too many games. The banter between them is great and it reinforces my thought that playing board games is one of the best social experiences you can have. I will listen for as long as they continue. A+
  • Evan-17
    Honest, thorough, and relatable
    The fresh (hot) takes on games helps give a great honest impression of the games. They feel more relatable than many sponsored reviewers. I’ve only listened to 10 episodes since I found them a couple days ago, but am sure to visit the backlog. I know these podcasts take effort, but I’m very happy they go above and beyond to deliver great reviews.
  • Srinkyfeet
    One of the best
    Like many others, this is one of the best podcasts on board gaming. I’ve dropped many others but stick with you guys. I love to hear your opinions, banter, and thoughtful discussion, not only on the hot topic for the night, but on the games getting to or leaving the table. Keep it up y’all, it’s great stuff!
  • SugarSugarSugar!
    So good
    Such a good podcast for board game enthusiasts. Really like the format of the show and how much they pack into each episode. Each of the hosts are very well spoken, very informative, and have a lot of respect for each other even when they differ on opinions. They do a really good job introducing and summarizing the featured game each week. In fact I played their overview of Revive recently for my gaming group when I was teaching them that game. Really appreciate the work you do, guys. Thanks.
  • JonBarberShopGames
    Doesn’t get better than this!
    This review is overdue as I’ve been a long time beneficiary of this podcast. I decided to take a crack at designing a board game over a year ago and subscribed to this podcast and multiple others in an effort to stay connected to the hobby. This is the only board game podcast that I still follow today and starting my work week by tuning into the newest content each Monday morning has been a real treat . These guys provide honest and insightful opinions which are sprinkled with the type of banter that can only be shared by true friends. Their excitement for the hobby is infectious and I truly believe their breakdowns of what they enjoyed or didn’t enjoy in a game have made me a better game designer. Tim, Chris, and Adam, thank you for sharing your time, talents, and passion for board gaming with the rest of us. Maybe one day I’ll be able to return the favor and provide you with an enriching gaming experience which would no doubt incorporate lessons learned from each of you!
  • The Virgo from LB
    A Cut Above
    I had my own board gaming podcast a while back, but it's success wasn't meant to be. Luckily I stumbled across these guys who have as close to the type of show as I had attempted, and I am happy that they are having better success. So many shows out there have a lot of filler. Not these guys. They stay on topic, even if it isn't always about the game in the title, which is nice because no matter what you don't feel like you're stumbling through a barrage of inside jokes or hosts who just like the sound of their own voice. It's a show that gives detailed and consice information with commentary that doesn't feel like someone is telling you to play something or not play something. These guys put forth an extemely inviting and immersive conversation that gives you room to decide for yourself whether or not a particular game is for you, which puts it miles ahead of most. Definitely worth a listen.
  • Lolbatsnow13
    The only gaming podcast to which I listen
    There are a lot of board game podcasts out there, but only so many hours I can drive to work or walk my dog! This is the only gaming podcast I make sure I listen to every week. The hosts Tim, Adam, and Chris are not professional game designers or experts - they are regular gamers who give their honest opinions about the games they play with each other as well as other games they play with their friends and family. The format is fun and informative. Each week they either review a game they just finished playing, sometimes for the first time, or they discuss a topic such as their top games of the year or their favorite games based on an IP. I have a non-zero number of games that I have acquired because of their reviews or discussions. Plus, they actively interact with their listeners, encouraging them to contact the show with questions and ideas. Two really big thumbs up for BGHT! RunningBoardGamer (on Instagram) Aka Brian S. Los Angeles, CA
  • Spock’s Grandpa
    So good, it’s an inspiration
    This is a great listen each and every week. Really good insight into the games, especially with the anecdotes that help understand the experience of playing the game rather than just the rules. So good it helped to inspire some friends and I to launch our own board game podcast! Well done, guys.
  • AdamTWilliams
    Stumbled Upon Glory
    I am a big board game podcast fan and have popped around to the Secret Cabal, blue peg pink peg and board game brawl (RIP) but the algorithm decided to point me in your direction. I have loved your concise and varied opinions! It has been a nice additional listen to my week! Thanks for what you guys do!
  • benonemusic
    Always a pleasure to listen
    This podcast is informative and the hosts are well-spoken and polite, staying on topic and offering diverse opinions on a wide range of games. They are genuinely respectful to each other (even though I get the sense that they sometimes feel they are being too hard on each other!) and last but not least, they are respectful to the listener.
  • slipperypick
    The 3 Musketeers do boardgames
    This might be my new favorite board game podcast. I enjoy SU&SD, SVWAG and others, but this one is pretty much All Killer, No Filler. Each episode is short relatively speaking, but no time is wasted. I love that. There’s a secretive podcast out there that is fun but could LITERALLY be edited down by 60% and come in at 75 minutes worth of good, NON REPETITIVE CONTENT. These guys on the other hand keep it focused and usually have very different perspectives on the subject; the result is that I’m eager for another episode as soon as I’m done with the current one. I really feel that this podcast adds value to the hobby, and that the “Hot Takes” angle is brilliant. A great show.
  • need clever review name
    Excellent weekly show
    Very happy to have found this podcast. A lot of podcasts get bogged down with off-topic banter. I’m sure some people enjoy that but I don’t. I want to listen to some people talk about board games and this show is perfect for that. Every week there’s a new episode. I appreciate their enthusiasm for the hobby even if my tastes are very different from the hosts. Thanks for making my Monday morning commute a little bit better.
  • Samir Biswas.
    A board game podcast that serves a wittieR review title than I could come up with
    A great podcast focused around friends discussing games that is easy on the ears and approachable to anyone interested in hobby board games. If NPR produced a show about board games, this is what it should be. The format, which usually does a deep dive into first impressions of one game makes most episodes evergreen. I started listening a few weeks ago and this has quickly become my go to games podcast during my morning walks and on the drive to and from work. And it’s family friendly with a cadence that I can listen to even if I'm with young kids in the car. I really enjoy that the discussions are about both recent and older games. I’ve been going through the back catalog listening to their takes on games I already enjoy as well as games I’m considering getting. Always leaving with something to think about, even if I don’t agree with their hot takes. Also appreciating the episodes that delve into themes and comparisons of different games in a single episode. The banter is always calm and friendly with lots of good points. The connections between the hosts seem very strong and deep. Their friendships are evident from the way the interact. And I can respect and appreciate that they try to take into consideration the perspectives of those not commonly represented in the board game industry. The podcast itself is very well produced without seeming over-produced. As I’m rapidly getting caught up on 3 years of shows, I hope they continue to put out shows for many more years to come. I reiterate that it’s a great show with a lot of positives that everyone should check out.
  • PrinceHarming
    Volume Issues
    I’d like to rate this higher but 1/3 of the hosts records his voice a few decibels above a whisper. The content is meaningless if you can’t hear what’s being said and constantly toggling with my own volume is annoying.
  • LazyJ-bAm
    Good opinions; exceptionally wrong about Root
    Great voices with solid opinions, with a lot of good and respectful debate. Really good chemistry. I appreciate the format and personality. But y'all just straight missed the mark on Root (admittedly one of my favorites). But I can respect the attempt. Keep up the great content!
  • poosums r cul
    Fantastic Board Game Podcast!
    Just found these guys and am loving the show. Only games podcast I’ve heard that captures the post game banter the best gaming experiences provide. I actually want to play games with these guys which I only could say about SUSD and NPI. Digging through the back catalog of shows and they are all top notch. The Hegemony episode captured this massive game in a way no one else has. (Our game lasted 10 hours with a dinner break 😅) Absolutely worth diving in if you love board games! PS I don’t feel like I’m being sold a game either which seems to be 75% of YouTube content now. 😣
  • Cyclist Edge
    Love these guys!
    And I do not even play board games! They really make the games come alive even for someone who does not play. And those sultry, deep voices of theirs… Ooohh!
  • Fit 832
    Best Podcast out there
    This is in my opinion the best Podcast out there. Not just in the Board game space. These guys do a fantastic job relaying pertinent information in a way that actually helps me make decisions on what games to play. Which I find invaluable since I love games, but there are so many to choose from and to little time to explore myself. They have a great format to relay the information and have a great group dynamic. They are all different and bring something to the table that I appreciate. I like that they don’t always see eye to eye on games but discuss them in a fun way while still courteous to each other. I also appreciate their genuine excitement around gaming and community building. They challenged listeners one week to reach out to them about an upcoming Board gaming vote for best Board game podcast. I did so and they replied quickly and then invited me to play some games on BGA, which I really appreciated (despite our Tapestry game ending in a tie which I didn’t even think was feasible) I look forward to their releases every Monday and think you will do. My only downside is that I struggle to find any other game podcasts that I enjoy as much as them for the rest of the week. I tried to determine who I would vote for as my favorite of the 3 as I know they have a running tally, but couldn’t come down with just one so I will say this. You each get a vote for best host. Tim because of the structure you bring and similar game taste. Chris because of your amazing voice and constant reminder that beauty in games is important. Adam because of the chill vibe you bring and great call outs on fun games as the reminder that Fun is what this hobby is all about. Keep on playing Gents and thanks again!
  • Emerald Pixie
    Writing a review after many months of listening
    I’m finally writing a review after listening to this podcast for month, I think well over a year. I’ve loved what they’ve been doing, how they structure the show, and that they sound like so many other regular gamers that I’ve talked to before. They’re a blast to listen to and I always enjoy listening to a new episode, even though we don’t always have the same taste in games (I’ve learned to just laugh whenever they discuss a Co-op game). When it comes to who my favorite is, that’s a tough choice. They’re all great, including the occasional guest appearances of Jen and/or Steve. I would normally say Tim, because I also love a good Euro game and I’ve gotten into solo games. However I think I’m going to say Chris (sorry Adam!), because we share a love for very pretty games, whether it’s amazing art, minis, or the whole production, it can be oh so tempting. Anyway, good job guys! Looking forward to listening to you for many more years! - Stephanie
  • randymonteiro
    Awesome Board Game Podcast
    BHGT is one of the best board game podcasts around. Chris, Adam, and Tim always give informative and insightful reviews. But more than that, they make them entertaining with their witty banter. I look forward to the show every week. Keep up the good work guys!
  • bonez51972
    Top notch!
    Such a great show, and I really enjoy the topics and polls! Keep up the good work!
  • Media Teacher Mike
    Top 4 Board Game Podcast!
    This podcast is so good! I love the personalities! This show rates right up near the top with The Secret Cabal, So Very Wrong About Games, and No Pun Included! Welcome to the Big Show, Hot Takes!!!
  • brianisivever
    The Best Board Game Podcast- Hands Down
    I came across this show several months ago, quite by accident. I was looking for reviews of some board games that had caught my eye, but I knew nothing about. I listened to their review of Red Rising, bought the game, loved it, I have kept coming back for more ever since. The key is the fact that Tim, Chris, and Adam are friends, not just cohosts. They are critical of the games they play, but in the way those of us who are just fans of board games are critical, not from the perspective of a designer, or a publisher, or someone who plays competitively. Those things may seem small, but they make a huge difference and make this particular board game podcast feel like no other I’ve listened to. And finally, since everything is a apparently a competition in this hobby: although I respect each host for what they bring to the show, Chris, for his amazing ability to pair a boardgame with a cocktail and his near flawless record of sharing opinions on particular games as me, is my personal favorite host - finally scoring a point in the face of the recent surge for Tim and Adam. Thanks to all of you. My wallet has suffered since I became a fan of the show, but the joy the games I’ve bought because your recommendations has been well worth it.
  • tdaning
    Friendly, relaxed conversations about games
    These guys just have a nice way about them. They voice their opinions honestly and fairly in a pleasant, easy-going manner, without hyperbole. So many gaming podcasters feel the need to create this morning-zoo-radio-DJ vibe with manic personalities, hootin’ and hollerin’ into the microphone. That’s an immediate turnoff for me. The BGHT crew does it right. That’s why they got my Golden Geek vote for Best Podcast this year (sorry it wasn’t enough, guys!). I won’t name my favorite host here, but if he lets me win at Ark Nova again on BGA, I might be swayed. Keep up the good work!
  • JGreeny34
    Just like hanging out with good friends
    I have been looking for a podcast to fill a board gaming hole I’ve had since the Dice Tower went away and stumbled on this podcast. Early on I found myself cherry picking top lists or favorite games of mine. Now that I have gotten to know the hosts and the personalities of everyone better, I am finding myself going back through all the older episodes I skipped as well as re-listening to others in more context (just found out Steve and Tim are brothers after listening to like 50 episodes, oops!). While I may not agree with every review (Root??), I love listening to a good group of friends who just love hanging out and playing board games together. The podcast has helped me discover some games I otherwise would have let slip through the cracks and the BGHT convention recaps are a personal favorite. Just an absolutely fun hang every week.
  • Random_asian
    Great takes!
    Just love the show - keep up the content! It’s great that the hosts and guests all enjoy a variety of games, but are passionate about what they like (and respect each others preferences). Love the variety of games that they try out (euros, battle, epic 4X, older games, newer releases, engine builders, etc! They offer fantastic perspectives on mechanisms or themes - really enjoy hearing about the “semi annual cons”, all of the “top” lists that help either pull me or push me over the edge to try out games. Great board game podcast with the focus on the games and not any nonsense filler. Thanks so much and keep it up!
  • justsomebox
    Back In The Hobby
    Just starting back into the hobby. I have been looking for new games to play, while I don’t always agree with their opinions, they give me an honest opinion that I definitely helps. Adam has the sultry voice that makes me happy to listen to multiple episodes in a row.
  • Ssdixon1s
    Best Board Game Podcast
    You won’t find a better group of people to listen to as they share their Hot Takes on this amazing hobby. Every member brings humor, thoughtful perspectives, and creates an approachable atmosphere in what can be an overwhelming topic. I looked forward to every Monday for the next episode and enjoy interacting with Tim through social media. #Timisthebest
  • Madcoder8
    Great listen
    This is my first written review. I really enjoy this podcast so much that I thought it was worth providing a review. I really like how they cover board games right after they played them. You get all of their initial unbiased thoughts, which is excellent. I enjoy all of the hosts but I will give a slight nod to Tim. I think Steve is a robot too.
  • Jkokoski
    Fantastic Board Game Podcast
    New listener - found this wonderful podcast after Tim appeared on RTFM’s channel. Have a similar history (long term MtGer turned board gamer) and decided to check them out. Really enjoy the entire cast and the variety of gaming preferences. Love the polls, the hot takes, the revisits of previous games they covered - all of it. Highly recommend to anyone that enjoys the board gaming hobby!
  • Epigone17
    Great podcast with great hosts
    This is a really fun board game podcast. The hosts are enthusiastic and great to listen to. I like hearing their opinions on lots of games, especially games that have been around a while. I love hearing first time opinions on games that aren't the new hotness. That having been said, they're all very wrong about Endless Winter!
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