GMT's name comes from the first name initials of founders Gene Billingsley, Mike Crane, and Terry Shrum. Crane and Shrum later left GMT and founded the Fresno Gaming Association….
Great video Cody! One GMT game I'm looking forward to is Downfall: Conquest of the Third Reich, 1942-1945. Made the cut on the P500 list and designed by the late Chad Jensen (who also designed Combat Commander Europe). I'm quite intrigued by the 2 player / 4 faction mechanic.
I agree with many of the choices. I also think Dominant Species deserves recognition. Another game which I think is great fun but hard to get to the table as it is best with 6 players, Here I Stand. Thank you Cody for your time assembling another video.
Thank you. Here I Stand is fun, but again, hardly got it to the table. I never played the original DS, but I played Marine not too long ago. Liked it didn't love it.
I was surprised to see Pericles left off while both Churchill and Versailles were there. It is honestly my favorite of the great statesmen series, the theme just hammers you the entire time and the two major segments just mesh so well.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer I actually liked the complexity level. It allowed me to more fully immerse myself in the game and get to know the history behind it.
Big thanks for the list, GMT is one of my favourite publishers and I've played most of the games you mention at some point... Some comments 9) Churchil - I've recently re-acquired this one and really want to re-try it solo 8) Atlantic Chase - it's getting a lot of buzz but it's still sitting unplayed on my shelf :( Still can't find an opportunity to try it out. 5) Talon - this was my big disappointment, I love the idea behind it but somehow it didn't "click" for me. 2) Versailles 1919 - I keep hearing good things about it but the theme isn't there for me. I'm just hoping that the upcoming sequel to it (Triumvir) will prove to be as good as the original :D
Good list, Cody. I own 5 of the 10 you listed. If I were pressed to make a list, I would probably include Mark Herman's Empire of the Sun and a representative game from the COIN series (but which one is likely a topic all to itself). I think there are a few other great ones on my shelf, but I couldn't put on a top-10 list without actually having brought to table--just need more time(the conundrum of middle-aged gaming)!
Great list! TS, CC:E & C&C:Ancients are likely all in my top 10 along with a few COIN games. I’m sad to hear you weren’t able to get T&T or Churchill to the table more. That they both play with only 3 & are so easy to teach have made them local favorites around here.
This is my top 10 GMT games list. 1. Panzer series (4 games in all). I play that one on board, Vassal, with miniatures and solo and MP).’’ 2. Hitler’s Reich 3. Twilight Struggle 4. Wing Leader series 5. Tank Duel series 6. Labyrinth 7. The Hunters 8. Fading Glory 9. Versailles 10. Ancients Curiously there is only 1 GMT game (Panzer series) in my overall top 10 of all time (which contains some legendary games like Enemy Action: Ardennes, Up Front, Ambush etc…) So while GMT is certainly a great company, the vast majority of their games are not really the absolute top of the bill for me (apart from Panzer) Of course I did not play yet some of their most interesting games I think I would love, so still needed to play: Falling Sky, Operation Dauntless, Unconditional Surrender, Space Empires 4x, and Fields of Fire (holding off until the Battle of the Bulge expansion). I am sure there could be others hiding unknown under a rock, but many GMT games mostly do not fall within my “awesome really need to have” category.
Thumbs up on Versailles 1919. Played it with a couple of buddies who don't play wargames or GMT games. They absolutely loved it. My top 5 GMT would also include Time of Crisis, Holland '44, Bayonets & Tomahawks, and The Dark Valley.
Time of Crisis is a great game as well. I haven't played the others. GMT is a great company and there is not enough time to hit all of their games, much less review them.
I just got Space Empires 4x yesterday and have been reading the rules today! I bought it on your previous recommendation and the game report that you and your friend (I’m sorry I can’t remember his name) put out after his first play. My best buds are coming to visit from across the country next weekend and this is going to be one of the games we play! Can’t wait to see how it goes!
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer my fiancé and I finally gave Space Empires a test run to learn it before my friends come this weekend and it was awesome! I tended to accidentally show the number markers under the ships though so I’m going to have to be more careful when we play again. Thanks for the recommendation!
@@-RTC- I may have mentioned in the video that I got a friend to 3D print little trays to hold the marker over the counter. Makes that sort of thing less likely.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer oh interesting I missed that in the video! I’ll have to check Etsy for something like that, although I wonder how many people are making things for this game on there. Thanks for the idea!
MyTop 10 GMT, so many to choose from: Honorable mention: CCN Epic, not just an expansion and whole new level of complexity. #10 Atlantic Chase #9 Dark Summer #8 No Retreat #7 Apocolyspe Road #6 CCN Generals, MArshalls, Tactics. Tactics cards for the BAsic game and new scenarios! #5 Twilight Struggle #4 Spacecorps 2025 #3 Paths of Glory #1b CCN, so great and so many expansions #1a Combat Commander. the ultimate in excitement/tense play AND expansions!
Hello Cody, thanks for your list. I see that there various different type of games in your list, but still there are type of games that are not in your list; e.g. the coin series. Also ‘epic’ games like here I stand / virgin queen. Or blockbuster like “Path of Glory” .What were your consideration to leave them out of the top 10? Too long playing time?, too difficult to get enough players?
I only played Here I Stand once or twice. I really enjoyed it, but it was too hard to get the table so I ended up giving it away. I haven't played any of the COIN games - I've always been a little intimidated, but I hope to one day. Everyone tells me I need to play PoG, but I've never had the chance.
Good list Cody. I recently introduced TS to my gaming buddy and he loved it! And as much as you exhort people to try Twilight Struggle, I'll keep exhorting you to try Europe in Turmoil - with your love of history (and TS) I think you'd absolutely love it. Cheers.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer it's a game that could really do with a 2nd edition. The gameplay is excellent but the paper map and smaller counters definitely suffer from comparison with the current Twilight Struggle components. The designer has a sequel in the works though, set during the inter wars period, which should benefit from Compass's current improvements in component quality.
A few years ago a friend taught me Twilight Struggle and I really enjoyed it, even though he beat me in the third round. I really liked the style of play so picked up 1960, hearing it was a bit more approachable. Still haven't gotten it to the table but really like a lot of what GMT offers. Already have a couple on P500.
We need an new edition of this to kick off 2024! I think my current top 10: Combat Commander: Europe + Med Twilight Struggle Dominant Species Dominant Species Marine Cuba Libre Churchill Imperial Struggle Mr. President SpaceCorp + Ventures Gandhi
I only had one encounter with GMT directly and had a different experience. Pre-ordered a game. Waited TWO years. Nothing came. I asked when they'd planned to ship it as it was already available in their store. They offered to deliver it abroad: For more delivery charges than the game was worth it! Told them to keep it. A least I lost no money. But still I love Maneouvre - one of my favourite games.
What prompted you to put Versailles 1919 ahead of Churchill? There’s some similarities in terms of the overall structure/goals, but if you’re just getting into that “negotiawar” type of game which would you recommend and why?
I like Churchill, but it’s a bear to teach and I couldn’t get it to the table very often. It’s also longer, and sometimes outstays its welcome. It’s a great game, but not one I could play frequently. By contrast Versailles is just more accessible and I can get it to the table more often. Also, I just feel like it flows a little better overall.
I hadn't played it yet, but I bought Sekigahara as it seems a lot of people suggest it as a fantastic introduction to block wargaming. I keep hearing great things about the COIN series, specifically Cuba Libre. I have Twilight Struggle, I just haven't had the opportunity to learn it and get it to the table. I will have to keep my eye on Versailles, and I find it interesting that Geoff Englestein co-designed it.
Do you think there will be a way to combine Triumph&Tragedy and Conquest&Consequence? What I really want to see is a game of the Cold War that’s more like an engine builder, so you could try and win economically. I like Twilight Struggle but it’s not very sandbox and it’s purely geopolitical.
Talon is great, you should probably check out Federation Commander or its bigger brother Starfleet Battles. Many wonderful memories! Also do a COIN game you'll love it! You can get a PhD you can most certainly handle any COIN game! Love the entire list, going to have to check out Atlantic Chase and Apocalypse Road.
Good list. GMT's SCW is pretty good but one needs a way to track "control" of hexes moved through to properly track supply. I used laser cut squares. Many are needed. Maybe a plexiglass overlay could be used with erasable pens. Probably not Top 10 but worth a play if any interest and with some fix for tracking hex control. Airpower is reasonably well represented. Something lacking in SCW games.
It seems you really like abstract games with an Euro vibe, whereas most players probably prefer wargames based on kinetic confrontations (which can be more or less strategic or operational)?... Just a friendly observation. I love your videos.
Nice and varied list Cody. I hard bounced off of Talon and Space Empires 4x struck me as a good game that wasn't for me (I've realised I'm not interested in generic space themed conquest/war games).
Versailles 1919 is fantastic. So much so that my wife, who is NOT into any sort of historical/war game really enjoyed it. So much so that she asked about it the other day. Yes, sometimes my wife is a gaming litmus test.
I'm not sure if you've played any of the Levy and Campaign games, by Volko Ruhnke, but they are a lot of fun and deal with logistics in a manageable way. I recently got in Almoravid (set in Iberia 1085) after really enjoying Nevsky and am excited to play it!
Was shocked at your number two. I bought it based off of your review, it was between that and your number 9, but 4 tends to be a better player count for my group. I watched this video to see if made it in but was not expecting it to be number two. Shouldn't be surprised, we had our third game last weekend and it was honestly one of the best gaming experiences I've had in a long long time On the theme, I think it works brilliantly well with the mechanics, but the different nations don't feel particularly different when you are playing as them. I see complaints about it in comments and I think this might be the reason. It's probably the price you need to pay for balance though
Great list! Very rough top-10 for me: Navajo Wars Fire in the Lake Next War: Taiwan Washington’s War Here I Stand Flying Colors Imperial Struggle GBoH Series Musket & Pike Series Twilight Struggle
Thanks for the list! I would like to like C&C Napoleonics, that is, get and play it but GMT is only selling the expansions. Hard to use the expansions without the basic game. Talk to 'em, Cody. They'll listen to you.😉
Ahh so many games to buy! My top five...Twilight Struggle, Paths of Glory, Time of Crisis, Cataclysm and probably the forever number one..Imperial Struggle..amazing game. They are all amazing, and so many more amazing games to discover..life is good!
Nice list but it might be a bit controversial as there are no games by Volko, who must be their top designer! I would add Dominant species and Space Corps myself.
Personally I think Labyrinth is a better game than Twilight Struggle. It's less dependant on players being of equal skill level, it retains the "play the card that screws you the least" style gameplay, and the cat & mouse asymmetrical gameplay is completely captivating. Throw The Awakening and Forever War into the mix and it's an even better game.
I will have to pick Talon up. A few years back (gosh over a decade I guess) ADB, which makes Star Fleet Battles, put out Federation Commander which is a bit of a cut down version of SFB. Talon sounds like an even more cut down version, which is not necessarily a bad thing. For what it's worth, Champions the rpg line uses an impulse movement and action system as well.
Sigh, SFB. Saw it at Judges guild in Ill back in the early 80's. Picke up all the expansions, then commanders edition, then Captains edition, then Federation and Empire, then scored a bunch of Federation commander sets a few years back. Loved it but complicated as all get out.
Is it possible to share the 3D print file for the token holder your friend made? I love the game, but the occasional bumps and handling that accidentally reveal the # of ships is annoying.
I have 5 of these (I do like GMT) but surprised Paths of Glory, COIN and 'Here I stand' didn't get on the list (edit: scratch 'surprised' (sorry); replace with 'Id've included....')
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer I play once or twice a year with same opponent. Tried once against AI but didnt quite like the way it played. Too much coups and luck based moves. I hope you get the chance to try out the digital version soon! Pretty sure you would like it.
Fire in the Lake has cemented its place at the top of my list. The first expansion is at the printer now and I'm very excited. The most interesting upcoming GMT game to me has to be Cross Bronx Expressway. Such a unique theme.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Haha! It's all good; happens to the best of us. I grew a "Doc Holliday" stache a while back. Yours would look more like a full Van Dyke if you trimmed some of the side hair on your chin. Very impressive, sir!
Hmm... can't recognize the Versailles 1919 description. I don't think I've ever played a game where I felt as detached from the theme... not even run-of-the-mill Euroes.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer I just felt like playing against the mechanics. Especially the objective selection made no thematic sense. ... and it kinda underlies the whole strategy for the game. PS: And I do like Churchill ...
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Napoleonic is really best with 5 players, which is not easy to organize. When a full game, I find it great. Empire of the Sun is only 2 players and is ultimately my favorite GMT game. The rules are complicated, but the depth of strategy and tactics is about as intense as it gets.
Good reviews as always but seriously you MUST play Paths of Glory if you are going to do a review of GMT games. The game is a blockbuster and has been around for over 20 years. Nothing else in WW1 strategic level gaming comes close I believe.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer de rien. Also just bought War Room based on your review. I feel it’s my spirit game. All the way from Melbourne Australia. Keep up the good work Doc
No publisher is free of having published stuff which need errata. But comparing the experiences with GMT and others... Like the Phalanx "Hannibal" upgrade I just received: * GMT made some errors on cards and map and player aid for 3 games (Versailles, All bridges burning and (the one I had) "Imperial Struggle"). So GMT makes an errata-kit where they replace cards and stickers for the map. The card errata wasn't really an issue to play the game. It was obvious what was missing on the cards. But they actually REPLACED the cards. And if was FREE. * Phalanx just sent out an update kit for "Hannibal&Hamilcar" ... the update kit it self was rather expensive. 27 Euro. But the kit contains sticker for card errata !?!! ... Seriously!? ... stickers for cards? How is this not going to make the cards with stickers visible in the deck????
One point about the games is the theme. You may have a great game but if you don't like the theme ... no. For example I hate Cold War or Pandemic themes. So sorry but Twilight Struggle is no way for me at all. But for the rest I love your reviews - TY - LOL the golf socks!
Well, the fact that I've been doing this for nearly a decade and have enjoyed some moderate success. Also the fact that I frequently have people comment and tell me that I've helped them make decisions about what games to buy or avoid. Also the fact that game companies frequently reach out to me to ask If I'd like to review their games. I suppose at the end of the day everybody's opinion carries some weight. I'm just happy to have had the success I have and hope to be able to share my love of gaming with people for years to come. Why do you ask?
![Gunna - HIM ALL ALONG [Official Visualizer]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/HiCxoDeo0hc/mqdefault.jpg)
This list really highlights how hard it is to make a top 10 for GMT. Way too many great games.
Indeed!
GMT's name comes from the first name initials of founders Gene Billingsley, Mike Crane, and Terry Shrum. Crane and Shrum later left GMT and founded the Fresno Gaming Association….
That's a common misconception. Actually, it stands for "Games, Man, Today!"
Great video Cody! One GMT game I'm looking forward to is Downfall: Conquest of the Third Reich, 1942-1945. Made the cut on the P500 list and designed by the late Chad Jensen (who also designed Combat Commander Europe). I'm quite intrigued by the 2 player / 4 faction mechanic.
Looks good.
I agree with many of the choices. I also think Dominant Species deserves recognition. Another game which I think is great fun but hard to get to the table as it is best with 6 players, Here I Stand. Thank you Cody for your time assembling another video.
Thank you. Here I Stand is fun, but again, hardly got it to the table. I never played the original DS, but I played Marine not too long ago. Liked it didn't love it.
Try Dominant Species: Marine. One change in the turn sequence makes for a much more dynamic game!
LOL. "Uncle Cody". Love it. (And yes, Twilight Struggle is the superlative gaming experience of a lifetime...)
Thank you! You are correct!
I was surprised to see Pericles left off while both Churchill and Versailles were there. It is honestly my favorite of the great statesmen series, the theme just hammers you the entire time and the two major segments just mesh so well.
I was less impressed with Pericles. To me it was just too complicated compared to Churchill.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer I actually liked the complexity level. It allowed me to more fully immerse myself in the game and get to know the history behind it.
Big thanks for the list, GMT is one of my favourite publishers and I've played most of the games you mention at some point... Some comments
9) Churchil - I've recently re-acquired this one and really want to re-try it solo
8) Atlantic Chase - it's getting a lot of buzz but it's still sitting unplayed on my shelf :( Still can't find an opportunity to try it out.
5) Talon - this was my big disappointment, I love the idea behind it but somehow it didn't "click" for me.
2) Versailles 1919 - I keep hearing good things about it but the theme isn't there for me. I'm just hoping that the upcoming sequel to it (Triumvir) will prove to be as good as the original :D
Thanks! Hope you get to AC soon.
What your opinion about Dominant Species (Marine or not)‽ We recently played and agreed it is one of the best worker placements we've ever played.
I've only played Marine. Liked it didn't love it.
Good list, Cody. I own 5 of the 10 you listed. If I were pressed to make a list, I would probably include Mark Herman's Empire of the Sun and a representative game from the COIN series (but which one is likely a topic all to itself). I think there are a few other great ones on my shelf, but I couldn't put on a top-10 list without actually having brought to table--just need more time(the conundrum of middle-aged gaming)!
Indeed! Thanks!
Great list! TS, CC:E & C&C:Ancients are likely all in my top 10 along with a few COIN games.
I’m sad to hear you weren’t able to get T&T or Churchill to the table more. That they both play with only 3 & are so easy to teach have made them local favorites around here.
Thanks!
Nevermind all that GMT stuff--that mustache, though!
Ha! Glad you... commented on it.
This is my top 10 GMT games list.
1. Panzer series (4 games in all). I play that one on board, Vassal, with miniatures and solo and MP).’’
2. Hitler’s Reich
3. Twilight Struggle
4. Wing Leader series
5. Tank Duel series
6. Labyrinth
7. The Hunters
8. Fading Glory
9. Versailles
10. Ancients
Curiously there is only 1 GMT game (Panzer series) in my overall top 10 of all time (which contains some legendary games like Enemy Action: Ardennes, Up Front, Ambush etc…)
So while GMT is certainly a great company, the vast majority of their games are not really the absolute top of the bill for me (apart from Panzer)
Of course I did not play yet some of their most interesting games I think I would love, so still needed to play: Falling Sky, Operation Dauntless, Unconditional Surrender, Space Empires 4x, and Fields of Fire (holding off until the Battle of the Bulge expansion).
I am sure there could be others hiding unknown under a rock, but many GMT games mostly do not fall within my “awesome really need to have” category.
Only played a few of them. Not a big fan of Hitler's Reich. Is "Ancients" C&C Ancients? Or Ancient Empires of the Inner Sea?
Nice list. Got really interested in Versaille 1919!
Great game. Hope you get a chance to play it soon.
Thumbs up on Versailles 1919. Played it with a couple of buddies who don't play wargames or GMT games. They absolutely loved it. My top 5 GMT would also include Time of Crisis, Holland '44, Bayonets & Tomahawks, and The Dark Valley.
Time of Crisis is a great game as well. I haven't played the others. GMT is a great company and there is not enough time to hit all of their games, much less review them.
Did the 'Next War' series not make it to your list because you really didn't like it, or because it hasn't come on your radar yet?
Yeah, haven't played it. Maybe somewhere down the line.
Love these videos. Will you do more videos on other game companies or perhaps top ten solo games?
Stay tuned!
I just got Space Empires 4x yesterday and have been reading the rules today! I bought it on your previous recommendation and the game report that you and your friend (I’m sorry I can’t remember his name) put out after his first play. My best buds are coming to visit from across the country next weekend and this is going to be one of the games we play! Can’t wait to see how it goes!
Excellent. Let me know how it goes.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer my fiancé and I finally gave Space Empires a test run to learn it before my friends come this weekend and it was awesome! I tended to accidentally show the number markers under the ships though so I’m going to have to be more careful when we play again. Thanks for the recommendation!
@@-RTC- I may have mentioned in the video that I got a friend to 3D print little trays to hold the marker over the counter. Makes that sort of thing less likely.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer oh interesting I missed that in the video! I’ll have to check Etsy for something like that, although I wonder how many people are making things for this game on there. Thanks for the idea!
MyTop 10 GMT, so many to choose from:
Honorable mention: CCN Epic, not just an expansion and whole new level of complexity.
#10 Atlantic Chase
#9 Dark Summer
#8 No Retreat
#7 Apocolyspe Road
#6 CCN Generals, MArshalls, Tactics. Tactics cards for the BAsic game and new scenarios!
#5 Twilight Struggle
#4 Spacecorps 2025
#3 Paths of Glory
#1b CCN, so great and so many expansions
#1a Combat Commander. the ultimate in excitement/tense play AND expansions!
Great list - though I haven’t played some of those.
Hello Cody, thanks for your list. I see that there various different type of games in your list, but still there are type of games that are not in your list; e.g. the coin series. Also ‘epic’ games like here I stand / virgin queen. Or blockbuster like “Path of Glory” .What were your consideration to leave them out of the top 10? Too long playing time?, too difficult to get enough players?
I only played Here I Stand once or twice. I really enjoyed it, but it was too hard to get the table so I ended up giving it away. I haven't played any of the COIN games - I've always been a little intimidated, but I hope to one day. Everyone tells me I need to play PoG, but I've never had the chance.
I love Pericles and recently got the latest print of Churchill which had been fun. Now you have me thinking I should go to Versailles next.
I think Versailles 1919 is the best of them.
Good list Cody. I recently introduced TS to my gaming buddy and he loved it! And as much as you exhort people to try Twilight Struggle, I'll keep exhorting you to try Europe in Turmoil - with your love of history (and TS) I think you'd absolutely love it. Cheers.
I want to hit that one, but unfortunately Compass does not provide review copies. Maybe one day when I can afford it I'll pick up a copy .
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer it's a game that could really do with a 2nd edition. The gameplay is excellent but the paper map and smaller counters definitely suffer from comparison with the current Twilight Struggle components. The designer has a sequel in the works though, set during the inter wars period, which should benefit from Compass's current improvements in component quality.
A few years ago a friend taught me Twilight Struggle and I really enjoyed it, even though he beat me in the third round. I really liked the style of play so picked up 1960, hearing it was a bit more approachable. Still haven't gotten it to the table but really like a lot of what GMT offers. Already have a couple on P500.
1960 is great. As is 1989. Hope you get it to the table soon.
We need an new edition of this to kick off 2024!
I think my current top 10:
Combat Commander: Europe + Med
Twilight Struggle
Dominant Species
Dominant Species Marine
Cuba Libre
Churchill
Imperial Struggle
Mr. President
SpaceCorp + Ventures
Gandhi
I haven’t played all of those, but a lot of good ones there.
I only had one encounter with GMT directly and had a different experience.
Pre-ordered a game. Waited TWO years. Nothing came. I asked when they'd planned to ship it as it was already available in their store. They offered to deliver it abroad: For more delivery charges than the game was worth it! Told them to keep it.
A least I lost no money.
But still I love Maneouvre - one of my favourite games.
That’s too bad.
What prompted you to put Versailles 1919 ahead of Churchill? There’s some similarities in terms of the overall structure/goals, but if you’re just getting into that “negotiawar” type of game which would you recommend and why?
I like Churchill, but it’s a bear to teach and I couldn’t get it to the table very often. It’s also longer, and sometimes outstays its welcome. It’s a great game, but not one I could play frequently. By contrast Versailles is just more accessible and I can get it to the table more often. Also, I just feel like it flows a little better overall.
How does CC:Europe compare with CC Pacific in your opinion.?
I haven't played CC Pacific. :(
Definitely sporting your GMT beard.
Danke!
I've only played thunder alley and 1960. I'm a little curious to try Versailles now.
Great game!
Nice list Cody! Although I can't think of any list not containing Here I Stand! Such an amazing game!
Fun game, but not top ten for me.
great list, although my beloved Sekigahara was missing
Great game. Didn't make top ten.
Its my top GMT game as well. And I am a big GMT guy. I like all of the games on his list though so I can't really argue with it. Its personal taste.
I hadn't played it yet, but I bought Sekigahara as it seems a lot of people suggest it as a fantastic introduction to block wargaming.
I keep hearing great things about the COIN series, specifically Cuba Libre.
I have Twilight Struggle, I just haven't had the opportunity to learn it and get it to the table.
I will have to keep my eye on Versailles, and I find it interesting that Geoff Englestein co-designed it.
Versailles and TS are awesome. Hope you get them to the table soon.
Do you think there will be a way to combine Triumph&Tragedy and Conquest&Consequence?
What I really want to see is a game of the Cold War that’s more like an engine builder, so you could try and win economically. I like Twilight Struggle but it’s not very sandbox and it’s purely geopolitical.
That would be interesting. Perhaps this is what you are looking for: ruclips.net/video/ciJOjiG7x9g/видео.html
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Ooo, I do want to try that one.
Talon is great, you should probably check out Federation Commander or its bigger brother Starfleet Battles. Many wonderful memories! Also do a COIN game you'll love it! You can get a PhD you can most certainly handle any COIN game! Love the entire list, going to have to check out Atlantic Chase and Apocalypse Road.
I'm sure I'll get round to doing a COIN day one of these days. You'll get a kick out of AC and AR. Thanks!
Good list. GMT's SCW is pretty good but one needs a way to track "control" of hexes moved through to properly track supply. I used laser cut squares. Many are needed. Maybe a plexiglass overlay could be used with erasable pens. Probably not Top 10 but worth a play if any interest and with some fix for tracking hex control. Airpower is reasonably well represented. Something lacking in SCW games.
Not familiar with that one. Thanks.
It seems you really like abstract games with an Euro vibe, whereas most players probably prefer wargames based on kinetic confrontations (which can be more or less strategic or operational)?... Just a friendly observation. I love your videos.
Thank you. First time somebody told I like abstract games with a euro vibe. I like Ameritrash much more. Theme is very important for me.
Nice and varied list Cody. I hard bounced off of Talon and Space Empires 4x struck me as a good game that wasn't for me (I've realised I'm not interested in generic space themed conquest/war games).
To each their own, but I love SP4X. It is a fantastic wargame/civ builder.
Versailles 1919 is fantastic. So much so that my wife, who is NOT into any sort of historical/war game really enjoyed it. So much so that she asked about it the other day. Yes, sometimes my wife is a gaming litmus test.
Ha! It is really a great game. And as you have found out, it is accessible.
What? no Ukraine '43, Caucasus Campaign, Holland '44, Stalingrad '42? Come on NOWWWWW!
Nope.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Have you ever tried them? You are missing out on some major tension and strategy.
@@Diabolik771 I haven't.
Dominant Spicies is my fave GMT game. The Hunters follows closely behind. Thanks for your thoughts.
Thank you!
Love Twilight Struggle. The game that eventually replaced it for me is Imperial Struggle...there is so much going on and the variability is great.
I like Imperial Struggle, but it couldn’t replace TS for me.
Did you do a video about SPI games?
No. I don't know that I've ever played an SPI game.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer they’re still state of the art, IMHOP
I'm not sure if you've played any of the Levy and Campaign games, by Volko Ruhnke, but they are a lot of fun and deal with logistics in a manageable way. I recently got in Almoravid (set in Iberia 1085) after really enjoying Nevsky and am excited to play it!
I haven't. I've still got to play some of Ruhnke's COIN games. Hope you're doing well Han. Have you comped yet?
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Yes I have, I just did my oral comps today!
@@nathanielwos2141 congrats! I assume it went well!
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer It did! I'm now ABD
Solid list, thanks for sharing.
Thank you!
Was shocked at your number two. I bought it based off of your review, it was between that and your number 9, but 4 tends to be a better player count for my group.
I watched this video to see if made it in but was not expecting it to be number two.
Shouldn't be surprised, we had our third game last weekend and it was honestly one of the best gaming experiences I've had in a long long time
On the theme, I think it works brilliantly well with the mechanics, but the different nations don't feel particularly different when you are playing as them. I see complaints about it in comments and I think this might be the reason. It's probably the price you need to pay for balance though
Good point. Yeah, I really like Versailles quite a bit. Great game.
Great list!
Very rough top-10 for me:
Navajo Wars
Fire in the Lake
Next War: Taiwan
Washington’s War
Here I Stand
Flying Colors
Imperial Struggle
GBoH Series
Musket & Pike Series
Twilight Struggle
Of those I've played Twilight Struggle, Imperial Struggle, Here I Stand, & Washington's War.
Thanks for the list! I would like to like C&C Napoleonics, that is, get and play it but GMT is only selling the expansions. Hard to use the expansions without the basic game. Talk to 'em, Cody. They'll listen to you.😉
Ha! I think you overestimate my influence!
Yeah, but not much point in recommending the game if it can't be purchased. If you'd mention this, they'd be shamed into printing it again--maybe.
Ahh so many games to buy! My top five...Twilight Struggle, Paths of Glory, Time of Crisis, Cataclysm and probably the forever number one..Imperial Struggle..amazing game. They are all amazing, and so many more amazing games to discover..life is good!
Great games indeed, although I have yet to play PoG.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer I ve commented before about POG, a masterpiece. If you are ever in Alberta, game on!
Cataclysm would be at the bottom for me. It is impossible to play correctly. Other are founded.
@@wartable I only play Cataclysm as a solitaire. I love the what if narrative. I can see why other players may not like it.
@AJ3000 yeah..3 of us spent weeks trying decipher. I am going to burn the thing.
Nice list but it might be a bit controversial as there are no games by Volko, who must be their top designer! I would add Dominant species and Space Corps myself.
Space Corps is a Great game. Haven’t played any Volko titles as yet.
Personally I think Labyrinth is a better game than Twilight Struggle. It's less dependant on players being of equal skill level, it retains the "play the card that screws you the least" style gameplay, and the cat & mouse asymmetrical gameplay is completely captivating.
Throw The Awakening and Forever War into the mix and it's an even better game.
Used to own it but never got it to the table. Thanks.
I will have to pick Talon up. A few years back (gosh over a decade I guess) ADB, which makes Star Fleet Battles, put out Federation Commander which is a bit of a cut down version of SFB. Talon sounds like an even more cut down version, which is not necessarily a bad thing. For what it's worth, Champions the rpg line uses an impulse movement and action system as well.
It’s a great game.
Sigh, SFB. Saw it at Judges guild in Ill back in the early 80's. Picke up all the expansions, then commanders edition, then Captains edition, then Federation and Empire, then scored a bunch of Federation commander sets a few years back.
Loved it but complicated as all get out.
Is it possible to share the 3D print file for the token holder your friend made? I love the game, but the occasional bumps and handling that accidentally reveal the # of ships is annoying.
I honestly don’t know how I’d do that. And if I did, I don’t currently don’t know if I’d be able to get it from him. Sorry.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer No worries, just figured I'd ask
I have 5 of these (I do like GMT) but surprised Paths of Glory, COIN and 'Here I stand' didn't get on the list (edit: scratch 'surprised' (sorry); replace with 'Id've included....')
Why surprised? Different tastes. I haven’t played PoG or any COIN game yet, though I hope to. I liked Here I Stand, but not in my top ten.
Curious to see where Mr. President, Prime Minister and the British Way would place now
Stay tuned.
CCN expansion you have to have……Marshals that refreshes basic with tactics cards and adds some new scenarios.
Thanks. I keep thinking I gotta play it more.
Thats six out of ten in my collection... so room for growth :)
Great minds!
One problem with Twilight Struggle, you need two players. I may never get to experience it, want to.
Hope you do someday.
Have you tried the digital version of Twilight Struggle? Its excellent and I very much prefer playing the game that way.
I have not. I've heard good things about it. Do you play solo against AI or against human opponents?
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer I play once or twice a year with same opponent. Tried once against AI but didnt quite like the way it played. Too much coups and luck based moves. I hope you get the chance to try out the digital version soon! Pretty sure you would like it.
@@heikkihegemon493 Thanks!
Triumph & Tragedy is an excellent three player war game experience, well worth keeping and learning. Churchill- not so much.
Too each their own.
Fire in the Lake has cemented its place at the top of my list. The first expansion is at the printer now and I'm very excited.
The most interesting upcoming GMT game to me has to be Cross Bronx Expressway. Such a unique theme.
Interesting. CBE wasn't even on my radar. I'll have to look into that one.
Loving the 'stache and beard, man! Though the facial hair does age you a bit...(=
Don’t I know it. Thanks!
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Haha! It's all good; happens to the best of us. I grew a "Doc Holliday" stache a while back. Yours would look more like a full Van Dyke if you trimmed some of the side hair on your chin. Very impressive, sir!
Hmm... can't recognize the Versailles 1919 description. I don't think I've ever played a game where I felt as detached from the theme... not even run-of-the-mill Euroes.
Wow. I felt the theme came through very well in that one.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer I just felt like playing against the mechanics. Especially the objective selection made no thematic sense. ... and it kinda underlies the whole strategy for the game.
PS: And I do like Churchill ...
I guess tastes vary. My favorites are Empire of the Sun and The Napoleonic Wars. Here I Stand is pretty good too.
I like Here I Stand, but haven’t played it in ages. I’d like to try The Napoleonic Wars at some point, if they ever reprint it.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Napoleonic is really best with 5 players, which is not easy to organize. When a full game, I find it great. Empire of the Sun is only 2 players and is ultimately my favorite GMT game. The rules are complicated, but the depth of strategy and tactics is about as intense as it gets.
very interesting list. Thanks
Thank you!
Good reviews as always but seriously you MUST play Paths of Glory if you are going to do a review of GMT games. The game is a blockbuster and has been around for over 20 years. Nothing else in WW1 strategic level gaming comes close I believe.
Yeah - hopefully when they do a reprint I’ll be able to finally play it. Thanks.
Twilight Strugle has an app too so pople can really get into it - very low barrier to entry now. C&C Samurai is the "Best" C&C now Id say.
I really like Samurai, but still think Napoleonics is the best.
The app for TS is awesome, that is how i play TS mainly.
I've heard that. I keep thinking that one day I'll invest in it. Thanks!
You gave Churchill away? Nooooooooo. Great vid anyway.
Danke
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer de rien. Also just bought War Room based on your review. I feel it’s my spirit game. All the way from Melbourne Australia. Keep up the good work Doc
@@Spandau-Filet Thank you! Happy to help!
epic! no Fire in the Lake or Imperial Struggle?
you gotta play Combat Commander Pacific and Fields of Fire one day! too many games.
Jesus Bless
Thank you. Indeed, too many games too little time.
There is a youtube channel Legendary Tactics. They do a video on each card for Twilight Struggle.
Cool.
No publisher is free of having published stuff which need errata.
But comparing the experiences with GMT and others... Like the Phalanx "Hannibal" upgrade I just received:
* GMT made some errors on cards and map and player aid for 3 games (Versailles, All bridges burning and (the one I had) "Imperial Struggle"). So GMT makes an errata-kit where they replace cards and stickers for the map. The card errata wasn't really an issue to play the game. It was obvious what was missing on the cards. But they actually REPLACED the cards. And if was FREE.
* Phalanx just sent out an update kit for "Hannibal&Hamilcar" ... the update kit it self was rather expensive. 27 Euro.
But the kit contains sticker for card errata !?!! ... Seriously!? ... stickers for cards? How is this not going to make the cards with stickers visible in the deck????
Good point.
Hmmm, Churchill didn't seem too bad to learn and play - its just a need three player game, so it felt harder to get to the table just because of that.
Very true.
Only have a few of these but want many others !
Hope you get 'em!
One point about the games is the theme. You may have a great game but if you don't like the theme ... no. For example I hate Cold War or Pandemic themes. So sorry but Twilight Struggle is no way for me at all. But for the rest I love your reviews - TY - LOL the golf socks!
Too bad. TS is a great game. I've never been too keen on Pandemic, though.
PS > I would bet that we both will LOVE the futur upcoming VietNam game "PURPLE HAZE" ... :)
It looks interesting for sure.
I didn't get a feel of the theme at all when I played Versailles.
And I didn't think much of Twilight Struggle either, much better on theme but a bit too random for me.
Too bad. Not my experience with either.
Cody, you forgot Dominant Species?
Nope
Who's Zack?
Zac. See 6:58
Imperial Struggle?
Good game. Not in my top ten.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Understood... It sneaks in my top 10..
Are you in WY?
I am.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Any interest in getting together sometime for a game?
@@captainnolan5062 Wyoming is a big place. Whereabouts are you?
@@captainnolan5062 Look me up on Facebook.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Will Do.
TIME OF CRISIS , come on ... But good list , opinions are always subjective
Indeed. It is a great game.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer yeah , to me it's number 1
Not 1 coin game ?
Haven’t played any.
i see your videos just for the jokes.
but the gas joke i didn't catch, iam portuguese so sorry for not catch the joke 🤕
One would expect the answer to be something like “Pontiac, Plymouth, and Porsche.” But the joke is that they start with gas, not with “pee” (urine).
Dah 😁😁
Big fan of your channel here, from Portugal 👌
What makes you think your opinion has any validity?
Well, the fact that I've been doing this for nearly a decade and have enjoyed some moderate success. Also the fact that I frequently have people comment and tell me that I've helped them make decisions about what games to buy or avoid. Also the fact that game companies frequently reach out to me to ask If I'd like to review their games. I suppose at the end of the day everybody's opinion carries some weight. I'm just happy to have had the success I have and hope to be able to share my love of gaming with people for years to come. Why do you ask?
@vstar7196 - impressively rude, ignorant and stupid comment. Well done for showing what kind of person that you are.
Top ten games that you gave away? Whatever.
Can't keep 'em all. Painful purges are part of the hobby.