News Bits: 1/6/2014

Ah, back on track after all of the holiday slowness. This week's NEWS:

Grant Rodiek looks at new ways to teach board games [Link] As my group's usual game explainer, I'm always eager for new methods to use (or at least for aids that will make my job easier). Grant highlights some methods that specifically designers and publishers can use to make teaching their games easier, even for rules explainers. For me, I'm still fine with a rulebook (I like to learn by reading), as long as the rulebook is well written.

Remembering Your First Play Of A Favorite

Celebrating a new game order by making it rain packing peanuts!

I wouldn't describe myself as being a member of the Cult of the New, a notorious title for people who like to play only the latest and greatest games.  In fact, I've only played 9 games that were released this year and am still catching up on last year's Essen catalog.  However, I cherish the experience of playing a game for the first time (regardless of when it came out).  There's something about exploring the possibilities in a new game and marveling at an elegant design.  Maybe it's the excitement that comes with discovering a new mechanic, seeing a clever twist on your favorite formula, or immersing yourself in a new setting.  Whatever it is, first plays are certainly memorable and after dozens or hundreds of plays chances are you'll still remember that first time.  Don't get me wrong, I still love to explore the depth that comes with repeated plays but that first play is special.

News Bits: 12/16/2013

Another week, and here's the NEWS:

Hanabi Extra released in Germany [Link] Bigger cards (Dixit size) and card racks. This is the kind of Hanabi Deluxe I'd be willing to shell out for. I'm not sure it's coming to the US, though.