33: John D. Clair (Ecos, Mystic Vale) explains how he designs board games. Also: Our fave Star Wars, deckbuilding, and engine-building games.

Dec 4, 2019

John D. Clair (Ecos, Mystic Vale) talks us through his mechanics-first approach to game design. And the group discusses our favorite Star Wars, deckbuilding, and engine-building games.

Games discussed:

Intro:

• Mystic Vale
• Custom Heroes
• Space Base
• Edge of Darkness
• Ecos: The First Continent
• Ascension
• Ascension: Skulls & Sails

Shoe's topic: Engine-building games

• Rise of Augustus
• Gizmos
• Great Western Trail
• Innovation
• Dominion
• Magic: The Gathering

John's topic: From inspiration to game

• Downfall
• War Chest
• Dead Reckoning
• Black Angel

Christina's topic: Deck-building games

• Shards of Infinity
• Tyrants of the Underdark
• The Big Book of Madness
• Aeon's End
• Path of Light and Shadow
• Thunderstone
• Thunderstone Quest
• Concordia
• Res Arcana
• Clank!
• Clank! In! Space!
• Clank! Legacy: Acquisitions Incorporated

Jess's topic: Star Wars board games

• Star Wars: Rebellion
• Star Wars: The Card Game
• Star Wars: Destiny
• Star Wars: Imperial Assault
• Star Wars: Outer Rim
• Star Wars: X-Wing Miniatures
• Star Wars: Legion
• Star Wars: Armada

Final thoughts:

• Slide Quest
• Draw Your Own Conclusions