Hello, lovely Dice Tower friends. I apologize for the odd intro/outro editing mistake. I suppose the upside is you can see and hear the behind the scenes MAGIC that goes on. Also, I made a boo boo. -- Mike
The fact that they do the 4-person reviews and they often disagree is something I like. Often other channels everyone agrees which makes me suspicious that they are paid reviews or they have a strong bias for one type of game and never play with different people or have broad tastes. DT usually has someone that covers a particular type of game even if the others don't
A 100% man. Their tastes don't always align with me and in fact their tastes don't even match each other which is so refreshing. But for the most part, their suggestions have not fallen flat with our group 😃
There have actually been games that you or someone at the Dice Tower had reviewed and came away tepid on the whole game, not enjoying it at all, but that I’ve walked away from your review thinking “I want to play this game.” It wasn’t a game for that person, but they did a good job explaining to the point that they made it clear who the game is for. I think that’s so special in what you all do.
This video to me, is what makes the the dice tower so great. It’s the authenticity and the ethics that you can tell flows through the team with sincerity. It’s always a pleasure to watch what they do collectively and there’s a reason it’s endured. Thanks Tom and the team! Heavy Dice judgement: Excellent! 😂
I’ve loved how Zee used to give his five points at the end of the review. Where he gave his opinion on aspects of the game. Replayability thematic tie in. Those things. Cause even though he and I have different interests in games. I could still tell if I would like a game he reviewed, whether or not he liked it. Now having so many reviewers on the channel. I can really look at the games which show on multiple top 100’s. And hopefully DT has Chris Yi do that math/accounting thing he did with the top 100’s last year. It was fun.
Even though Dice Tower is a major board game reviewing channel, it shouldn't be people's only watch. Particularly to the point where you'd say something as bombastic as 'you ruined my career!'. If I'm really torn on a game, I'll usually watch several reviews and read many ratings on BGG. If there's an *actual* problem with a game, it'll usually be pointed out by multiple people, and you'll be able to tell who the 'phonies' are pretty easily. If they aren't buffing the game to get brownie points, then they probably didn't play the game correctly or pay much attention to it. Anyway, I think most people would say that even if they don't always agree with some of the content on The Dice Tower, they appreciate the effort and quality of the content.
Great Video Tom. I've been watching for 13-14 years or so, and I've always been able to see the sincerity, passion, and down-to-earth nature and "realness" of Tom and the others. I think he's built a great team, and it's the main touchstone for me and many others when they come out with review for a game you're interested in. I love that they give honest opinions, but don't go out of their way to only review games they like or purposefully play a game they think they won't to trash it for clickbait views. And aren't exclusively a KS preview channel. I think they have been an enormous help informing the gaming consumer for years, and somehow manage to be entertaining while doing it! 100% class and the industry standard. Keep it up!
Tom, I cannot say how much I appreciate your game reviewing efforts. I believe you are reviewing the broadest assortment of games and assigning accurate opinions to them. I agree with your assessments of games that I own. When our opinions differ, I still appreciate your honesty. Keep up the great work. -Shawn
I agree with this a ton. Tom & my taste in games don't line up perfectly. But because the "why I don't like it" is always explained, I can still use a negative review to see if it's a game I might be interested. Or, more often, if I see a review like that, I'll go check out some other reviews. And the opposite holds true as well. Not only are the "score metrics" reasonable (and not just always 7-10s out of 10), but there's good justification on each review so the viewer can form their own opinions as well.
Tom.... this video makes me know for certain what I have always thought. I would absolutely love to hang out with you. Very genuine and knowledgeable. Your always the 1st review I look for on any game. Good or bad. Thanks for all that you do.
As someone who has been watching your reviews for well over a decade (and reading them for much longer than that), I wanted to chime in and say how thankful I am for you and the work you’ve done to expand access to the hobby. While my tastes have diverged dramatically from yours over the years, I appreciate your consistent perspectives and the energy you bring to each review. I can usually figure out whether I’d like a game because of how well I know your tastes, and that brings me joy. Much love, Dice Tower. Wishing you well!
I would imagine the toughest part is learning the correct rules. So many games leave at least one question unanswered, now I expect to do research online. I agree that most mistakes don't ruin the game, but some do, and often it's the publisher's / designer's / editor's fault. I just wanted to mention my biggest problem as a board game player. The fun outweighs that frustration, so I keep learning and playing new games.
Really well said, Tom. I’m glad to hear that you (and the team) work so hard to be unbiased and honest for your audience even when it’s difficult. Such an ethic will only benefit the board game community and the entire industry in the long run.
Thank you Tom, I really appreciate the direct connection about making the dream of one's passion into a reality can be a life long journey of experiences.
I enjoy having you and your team as part of my quiver of reviewers. I have learned your style and personal preferences. I have learned that some of what is important to you may not be the same to me, and I can adjust my take away from your review accordingly. Thank you for your hard work and I hope you are able to keep doing what you love.
Excellent! I've been watching Tom and the other Dice Tower reviews for a long time now. I use them quite often to help me decide if I want to buy a game I'm interested in. It's not my only input because while I agree with Tom quite often I don't always, and that's ok. I enjoy watching and I do find a lot of aid from the videos. Keep it going!
Great, sincere video. Thank you for all you do together with the Dice Tower team...you were my first go to when I started the hobby and have just grown from strength to strength.
Thanks Tom for all you do, you’ve brought joy into my life by showing me games I love for the first time. Watching the top ten lists with Tom Mike and Zee, (Sam also) has given me hours upon hours of joy and laughter. If not for the dice tower, the board game industry wouldn’t be as strong as it is now. Take care.
Finding what makes your Soul Smile is True Happiness. 😁 Thank you for shining your happiness upon us Tom!!! You and your whole Dice Tower crew. We all Thank you!!!
One of the things i've always liked most about Dictower reviews is that i can usually tell if i'll like the game from the details in the review ,whether or not the review itself is positive or negative. That takes a level of sincerity that a lot of channels don't have.
Can you imagine how boring the hobby would be if everyone all liked the exact same board games? No innovation, no variety - just an endless stream of the same game rethemed over and over again because that's all that's wanted. One of the things that brings me the most joy while watching board game channels or looking over the Facebook posts for both The Dice Tower and Boardgamegeek is the shear number of different games that I see! I may know what I like already, or at least think that I know, but that doesn't mean I'd ever stop looking at the opinions of others to see if they like something I don't know about; and I certainly wouldn't shame anyone or blame anyone for having different tastes than my own. Excellent video, Tom! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on what it's like to be in the position of a reviewer. I may not do that myself, I may not have a desire to, but I found the subject enjoyable to watch as someone that regularly comes to this channel for both entertainment and education.
This video was perfectly timed! I keep wondering if I’m doing videos “right,” but I’ll just do them my way and if people like them, great! If not, I’ll still have fun playing games and making videos. Thanks so much! You’re a hero!
I can only speak for myself...but I have noticed for me that my taste in games has evolved over time as well...I used to be up for almost anything...but now I see myself gravitating towards certain types/play times/etc...
I hand it to ya, Tom (and the gang)... I loves me some board games, but I could never be a reviewer, I don't think. For one, if I don't like a game, I can't see playing it enough to give it a review. lol Gaming is too much of my "fun time" to become work, I think. Maybe I'd feel differently if I was somehow offered some great job in the gaming world, but for now, it is just my hobby and I can do nothing but appreciate the people like you who have that ability and help guide us gamers to the gems out there. :-)
Well said! The upside is with so many choices now that one can find something they enjoy. I have found the more I play the more I am finding my taste and niche in games.
Tom, I have a lot of respect for you and what you do each day. Seriously this video gave me a lot of perspective into your situation and all the stress that comes with being in the board game industry. Thanks for your integrity and hard work
Tom, excellent video. Grateful for your reviews and you’re one of my favorites. You present as a genuine person. I love board games and am getting more involved with BGA and starting small groups with friends. I also related what you said to my new pursuit as a writer. I’ve questioned about why I do it, if I’m productive enough, and if I’ll make enough. But truly, I love to write and I want to share my insights with others who understand and appreciate my words. They’re not for every reader, as you wisely understand your reviews may not be for every viewer. I needed this guidance, thank you for your honesty.
The Dice Tower was and is a source of honest and credible reviews and inside and brought me so much joy since this channel dragged me into this great rabbit hole so many years ago. Thank you and all the best.
Cheers Tom. Your original DT Reviews that I started listening to with the die, falling into the tower, and the Eric Summerer voice over intro (please bring this intro back, btw) helped to rekindle my passion for gaming and exposed me to many many new games (beyond Catan & the MB Gamemaster Series) that I never knew existed. Love that you're still reviewing games and shepherding the DT well. (and I can related with your urge to look at games and wonder -- what is that game like?). Hats off!
It's amazing that you're doing for so long. I also review board games on a separate account and in my native language, but I've only been doing this for like 6 months. Which is why I appreciate this video so much. I always find exactly what I'm looking for in DT: a breakdown of a certain game but also an authentic love for board games.
It’s amazing how much impact Scott Nicholson has had. I got back into gaming largely because of his Ticket to Ride review way back in 2004. It would be fascinating to ponder how things would be today if “Board Games with Scott” never happened.
Tom Vasel reviews got me into the hobby - just found them entertaining, tried a few games and I am appreciative. Have always found Tom and his crew humble and fair - they make it clear they celebrate that there is something out there to suit everyone’s tastes and that their reviews represent their own opinions.
I remember the early BGG reviews from Tom (Duel of Ages.) It's been a long, colorful, circuitous journey! Thanks for sharing your clear, openhearted take. 💙
I admire Tom’s dedication to his career of being a capital R reviewer. He’s found a thing that’s important to him, and done the best he’d could at it, and he’s done a dang good job with it. I’m very thankful that the dice tower is often at the forefront of gaming, as I think it carries itself with integrity, honesty, and a value being honest with the hobby. Thank you Tom & co!
This is an absolutely awesome video from an absolutely stellar team. Tom is the GOAT. Profesional S tier. I see so many overlaps between this and other aspects of life. Great job! May your tribe continue to increase and increase!
Thank you Tom. If you have reviewed a game I'm considering I make a point of watching your reviews cos they are balanced & I feel honest, & sincere. Thanks for sharing your joy of the hobby :-)
When I watch Board Game reviews I won't lie I watch a whole bunch of reviews. Just because Tom likes a game does not mean I will. Just because Tom does not like a game does not mean I wont like a game. I watch them to see game play experiences, what type of game it is, is it a heavy or light game, is it best with 1,2 or more players. I enjoy seeing and hearing multiple people/reviewers view on games and feel that is the best way to make the most educated decision on a game. Dice tower is one of the many that I watch and have extremely enjoyed this honest review. Great work!
I like the way you do a review. You give enough information to give me an idea how the game plays without going overboard and giving too much information. This way I can judge that even if you didn't like a game I might and even if you loved a game I might not. That's what I want from a reviewer.
That was a good video. Although my channel is very small, I agree with most of your thoughts here. ☺️ I especially agree with the idea to be 100% honest in your reviews, even if they're not just positive. That's very important.
What a heartfelt reflection video! I was thrilled to meet you and the gang at PAX the year before last. Your channel is one of my favorites, if not the favorite spot I go to. If I am looking at a game and you've reviewed it, I base my final decision on your review. It shows that you enjoy your work. What a job! Many times, I'll admit I just watch your playthroughs solely to be entertained. Watching people play board games is akin to watching sports for others. The back and forth social aspect is engaging. You've added so much to the community and I'm grateful to you and all of your hardworking team.
Heart felt and sincere. I enjoyed this video. I do love watching your board game reviews. But, more videos of this "grown up talk" is great as well. Would love more of this.
I loved the intro/outro mistake. I thought it was intentional and seemed to add some authenticity to the video. Would love to see an entire "behind the scenes" video. And a bloopers video would be cool too. Y'all are great!
Thanks Tom. I don't agree with everyone on everything and the same goes with some of your reviews. However, over the years I appreciate your insight in games. If I ever need more information on a game you are the first resource I check because I can depend on you to give your honest perspective.
Appreciate your attitude and your reviews!! There's probably a bunch of us, who just watch your reviews to hear about the game and don't necessarily comment on them! Just wanted to comment and say- Keep up the good work!!!
There are some reviewers that showed me what board games were and made me love them. DT Team and you personally, Tom, is one of (but also on the forefront) those reviewers. I now have a lot of friends liking board games as I do, because I showed them what this hobby is. And that happened because you showed me what this hobby is. It might be a minor thing in one's life but for this I'm forever grateful. There were dark times in my life, board games saved me, literally. Thank you, Tom. Thank you DT. I don't know why this sounds like you guys are retiring and I'm leaving a commment but well, there it is!
I'm relatively new to DT and it seems like your opinions are not bought. Really appreciate all of your transparency. You all are some of my fav peeps that I've never met haha.
I love your reviews, they are great because no matter if I agree with you or not, by looking at them i know if the game will be a good match for me or not. And that’s why i come to the review in the first place. Wonderful job, thank you.
This is so cool. A little peak inside the dice tower vision. Would love to see more videos of the crew talking about day-to-day stuff. A peak behind the curtain. Great content as always guys! Thanks so much
This was a surprisingly good and useful discussion. Very straightforward, to the point, focus on having a philosophy of what you are doing. Recommended watching for anyone in this space.
Revenue, margins, customers that don't have high income, rent inflation, inflation in general, amazon/target/wallmart, what to buy, what not to buy, how much to stock, employees hiring/firing/managing etc. Bonus topics: having to deal with MTG if you sell it, having to deal with single mtg cards if you sell it, events, having to deal with Warhammer if you sell it, food license if you decided being a coffee shop in addition to this not high margin market was a good idea, liquor lice... I'm sorry I was laughing too hard to type more. Best advice, go get a degree in finance, and play board games with your friends in your free time. If you want to worry about making rent, or don't want to worry about having a mortgage: Open a game store.
Most small businesses fail because people try to monetize their hobbies or underestimate the challenge of generating enough income to cover relentless overheads when there are hundreds of competing low-margin retailers / online stores. Don't do it!
@@amunt3r If one is interested, then one should draw up a business plan, and carefully look at the potential viability. Ensure that you have enough funding to cover the first 3 years, because every penny earned will need to be ploughed back into the business (i.e. no salary for those three years). Whilst it is not easy, if you are up for the challenge, then go for it.
@@PsychicLord You can do all that and still fail. I support my local store unless they are out of stock. But many people will browse a store, ask for recommendations, then check their phone and buy the same product online to save $20. Local retail is a TOUGH TOUGH TOUGH gig. And that's assuming a chain doesn't open up an outlet nearby, just when you've started to break even.
The reasons you give about why you do reviews is good for anything in life. If you don’t enjoy whatever job you have, whatever activity you do, whatever relationship you are in…. Stop and get out and re-evaluate. Tom is freakin awesome!!!
While I love playing new games as much as most people, I think a niche that would work out well if the right effort was put into it would be games which are going to (very likely) be published in the mainstream market (Target, etc) for a very long time because they're "evergreen". People dump on Catan and even Pandemic sometimes for being too simple or too old, but they've got their foothold in the mainstream market and they're likely to stick around for a very long time, and that means there's a real enough audience for a channel to become worth it. Initial videos on these games would simple how-to-plays, sure, but the main meat of such a channel would be digging into strategic advice ("Pandemic: Basics of Crisis Management") or even meta-discussion ("How to be a Great Player: Cooperating on the Fly (Featuring Pandemic)"). The mission statement would be improve *player literacy*, and eventually improve player quality across all kinds of games not just the mainstream ones. The goal would be to get more kinds of people to answer "Would you like to play a boardgame?" with "Sure!" because they at least know how to play and maybe even feel confident about those mainstream games. This can branch off into videos talking about more general strategy advice for that kind of game ("How to be a good negotiator (Featuring Catan)"). Sure there might not be much depth in any particular game, but you can use discussion of a mainstream game to improve the quality of players for all games. Besides, you can even include simple variants which you like and do actual-plays that involve those variants, so it wouldn't be constantly just "yet another Catan video". There could even be RUclips "shorts" covering a tiny topic in less than a minute which could be sent to anyone right before you start playing. It would definitely have to be a passion project, at least at first, and it wouldn't get a ton of views immediately despite being about mainstream games, but it would be a unique approach and have potential to become big with the right effort. Besides, it would bypass a significant number of the reviewer problems mentioned here.
I want to reply to your comment with a counter perspective. I'm not trying to say one is right and the other is wrong but just want to provide a different viewpoint. First, I think your idea of trying to help make board gaming more accessible / ease people into the hobby is a worthy mission. Providing overviews of how generally used mechanisms function in games like worker placement, drafting, action selection, etc are examples that make sense. However, I have a different view on the value of providing lots of strategy guidance specific to individual game titles. I think a big part of the satisfaction of playing a game is exploring and uncovering various strategic approaches that unlock the puzzle of a game and provide a sense of progression in your ability to play well. Doing this without a lot of detailed information from others builds the player's own self-confidence in their ability to do this with other games and then eventually tackle more complex games. In some ways it's like the old saying about "teach a man to fish" vs just giving them a fish. In any case, pursue your passion and happy gaming!
I love the Dice Tower, because of many many reasons. just to mention a few, they don't necessarily buy the games they review, that allows them to review something they wouldn't have bought at first sight. there's someone for everyone, I happen to resonate more with Tom's taste, others might feel that way about Zee, Camila, Roy, etc. and finally the shear volume of reviews, it's just amazing
Even negative reviews can be free press for publishers and designers. I know it's just one anecdote, but a reviewer on another channel commented that they didn't like a particular game because it was "too introductory." But after watching their description of it, I knew it was just the right kind of game for a friend of mine and I bought it. Lucked out and got it on sale, too!
Tom, I think you short change your mission statement. I always get the feeling that you do this because not only do you have a passion for gaming itself but that you know how the magic of gaming can bring people together in a way few other things can. And it seems like you want to provide people with information that will allow them to make that magic happen in their own relationships with all kinds of people. Would the new Pitch Car setup surprise on the dining room table every Christmas morning have become a family tradition without the Dice Tower? No way. I would have never even considered that game on my own. I taught Long Shot the Dice Game to my adult daughter and her boyfriend over Christmas. They were lost after the first round, but thanks to your play through video, I was able to get them past the rough spots and we had one of the best game experiences ever. I love your crew for the combined passion, integrity, and commitment to fun. I don't always agree with the reviews, but that is also part of the fun. Keep rolling.
Tom, I have been following the DT podcast and your reviews for over a decade, I got into gaming in 2004 and you were my to go reviewer. Once I developed my taste in games I know where our tastes are shared and were these do not match for example I do like a good trading in the Mediterranean game. I like your format as it is short and sweet. This video is honest and that is what I look for in a review. The lookbacks are great and I really enjoy them. In terms of the industry, monetizing a hobby is something I am not willing to do so I enjoy my games and I started getting a huge fondness for the "Cult of the Old"
Good to see a more personal side of Tom. Hope to see more videos of his musings in the future. One thing that I felt like wasn't mentioned was the ethics of promoting consumerism and how to help people narrow down what they should actually buy from the many many many games that do get a positive review, but I guess that responsibility is mostly on the individual looking to buy games.
Thanks Tom for the video, I am a small time game reviewer channel and feel like I am making videos in a vacuum. I make these videos because I love board games and this is a way I get to talk about them. Thanks again for the video.
Great video. loved it. Im amazed how much you guys do and show little signs of fatigue doing it. I love boardgames but I need breaks from reading all the rules and so on so forth and I only go through a tiny fraction of what you guys do. AND you are having fun with it AND you work on not letting yourself fall victim to cliche so its extremely respectable. I do love your format the most for reviews and its why nomatter how many other creators I add to my subs, I tend to always come back here for more. But yah, wishing you many many more reviews. I also have to say, I was originally a bit turned off by the group reviews but now that I got used to them, I wouldnt go back to the previous model so kudos to you and your team (whoever came up with the idea) because it was a great innovation of your brand. In contrast, some other major content creators have been adding more and more "sub-creators" and I find myself watching less and less of their content
Great video and great feedback for reviewers. I find myself in that hole of despair sometimes as n content creation and appreciate the sage words or wisdom.
Hey, I said it 100 times for years, so guess what? I will say it again because people forget: I love Tom, I love Zee, I love Mike, Roy, Wendy, Chris, Camilla, Joey, previously Sam, I just love you guys (not as people, I don't know you personally!) but as reviewers and mediators of this hobby of ours, because you guys are GENUINE. This is the most important trait. Been watching Tom since Melody was a little kid, now my own kids have grown up and I will still watch Tom in 10 years. You are my window through board games, Tom, so within the flow of bad stuff you might receive being a public person, allow me to send some human to human love to help you on your journey. Cheers!
Hey tom. You are amazing. Your ideas came from your heart. They were honest. I love it when someone is doing it because they love it and that shows through completely with you keep up the great work. Thank you.
Thank you for the honest speech, sir. Something(s) might have pushed you to want to speak about this, but I think most people are happy with the dice tower content in terms of structure and quality. Publishers and fans of a any given game are still relatively a minority that tends to be vocal and quite loud in response to any "negative" content. That is why they tend to stand out. This is despite their projects being kickstarted by people who believed in it regardless of any reviews that could come later on. I love the dice tower and I think it was made by passionate reviewers and for the people. I'm on my way to be come 40 years old and I haven't particularly commented much dice tower on videos since I stumbled on the channel long long ago. But I felt the need to say this. My kids love Tom Vasel, Zee Garcia and Mike Di Lisio and it is always a joy to them to play against their haint represntations in the Vagrantsong song promos or visit Tom's shop in flamecraft. After all those years, the dice tower team is practically family at this point. Keep doing what you are doing. You cannot please everyone (in anything) and most people love the dice tower. My children do. Sincerest regards from my family here in Dubai.
To me, a completely bizarre way to evaluate a reviewer. Some reviewers don’t enjoy giving reviews to games they don’t like. Stop and think about it. They had a bad experience, and just want to move on. Why in God’s name would that make them less credible? I assume that reviewers are genuine, unless they give me clear evidence that they are not. You seem to start with the assumption that reviewers are not genuine, for some reason, but must prove themselves to you.
I´ve never understand how you guys do it, learn games, play them and then make videos constantly, such a feat! You guys are all amazing and I admire you all for what you do. This is not an easy job, some people think it is, no way in hell it is. Dedication, commitment, lots of other things it takes to be able to do this for such a long time, keep it up! I disagree with you guys regarding games but that´s life, all good same as some others we reach common ground, I like games you guys like and don´t like games you guys like and like games you guys don´t like. So funny.
I like the communication and the sincerety a lot, thank you Tom. The lecturing of smaller game-reviewers seems off to me though. Let people do it for the money, if that's what they are driven by. The more game-reviewers the better. Are there really any "bad reasons" to do a good game review? Saying that people should have specific reasons to do reviews rubs me the wrong way.. Cheers.
Great video. This could become a code of ethics for content development ifor board games. I was looking into relaunching my channel and your points made me think and confirm some of my ideas and explore new ones. Thank you.
What is really great about most game reviewers is that they respect the design, production and inspiration that people are exhibiting, even when the play may not always be that great. Through play we become very close to this art form, and tend to honor the work involved in creation. This stands in contrast to the horrible way in which the communities creating movies are treated. Thank you and most of your cohorts setting a high example.
You guys are really a great source of knowledge. And fun to watch. In my country there are many game reviewers which seemingly 'like everything'. The have many 'How to play' videos for anything on the shelf, and everything is embelished with 'This is great!'. And... it's not great. It's just available. I can only assume they have a relationship with the local importers. It skews game design in the country. It skews the public. It skews the age group (because they 'get away with those reviews more easily' because they show all games as children games). There's no one giving a real honest opinion on the games we do have.
The biggest problem is the amount of hype that surrounds every new release on Kickstarter, perpetuated by every online content creator. We've reached a point where you can make a mild criticism of a game and be drenched in comments praising the honesty of the critique and that's because people are starved for authenticity. If a friend asks us if a game is good we sing either high praise or venomous, somewhat exaggerated, scorn because that's how we talk to one another and yet every video from some creators is either glorious praise or tepid at best approval. Nothing feels real and I get it, it's hard to bite the hand that feeds. If you crap on a game the publisher may stop sending you early releases which means you'll miss those views other channels are getting. It's a tough spot to be in. But the Dice Tower is amazing and never once have I questioned your dedication and enthusiasm. It's the reason I'm here. I think RUclips is changing for the better and channels that are more real are going to win in the long run. Hell, my favorite Dice Tower videos are the negative ones! I love seeing you get mad about how bad a game is.
Great video! The pressure is always there for sure and when it’s not your job it makes it extra difficult to carve out time to record, edit etc. But you’re right though, if it’s something you love you stick with it and it will stay worthy of the hours you put into it. I think many of us ‘grew up’ with the dice tower in our board game journey so thanks for all the effort you’ve put in over the years 😁👍🏻. Oh and btw, thanks for shouting out my channel in the thumbnail 🤣🤣. I’m now going to go play some Fractured Sky and then continue watching your top 100. Thanks for everything Tom (and everyone else at DT!).
I thoroughly enjoyed this video. As a board game enthusiast, I wholeheartedly resonate with the camaraderie and shared joy that comes from gaming with friends or perhaps teaching a new game to a willing audience. It's what board gaming should be all about, having fun. While I've admittedly made my fair share of rule blunders, I've been fortunate to game with a group of understanding friends who always guide me tactfully towards a corrected interpretation. This video actually reminded me why I do watch reviews on this channel. I watch the reviews on this channel because I genuinely believe they provide balanced and well-reasoned insights into various games I might have an interest in. I may not always agree with the conclusions but that is okay, different views help! Looking forward to more great reviews and opinions!
Gotta be honest, I couldn't do this job because I couldn't do negative reviews although I know that those reviews are equally as valuable as positive ones.
Back when there were record stores, we had a locally-owned shop that published album reviews in a monthly newsletter. When someone asked why they hadn't reviewed the latest album by a big-name band, they noted in the next issue that they only had room in the newsletter for what they had liked; if a major release was conspicuously missing, that in itself told you something.
First of all, thanks for your devotion and hard work during all these years. I've been following the Dice Tower since the early days of BGB, and I'm still here watching many of the live shows. I think you have a fantastic team with different taste in games. I know that I usually have more in common with you and Chris than for example Zee and Camilla. But sometimes they make me notice a game I would have missed otherwise (a long time ago, Zee got me interested in Targi). Of course I don't agree with all your reviews, but that's fine. We all have different opinions. You are doing a job I know I couldn't handle even though I love games. Keep up the good work!
I used to be a video game reviewer and the problems and challenges are very simular Choosing what to review is number one also knowing what game is good to review and what to pass on to someone else or not at all The hardest part is what I call the experts dillema If you have played 300 games in the same category - it's harder to be amazed at something - while for a less experienced player it might be an eye-opener Also the enviroment plays a big role (good or bad) - if you play a new game with your friends a have a good time - you probably have more positive thoughts about it and vice versa How many times do you have to play a game in order to give it a good review / what is the impact of amount of players So many variables - for me it's about finding reviewers who have simular taste as you have and who you trust.
2 things I really appreciate with the Dice Tower reviews: 1) Whether a game is reviewed/rated by more than one DT person, the frequent Top 10 and Top 100 lists really showcase what each person likes differently. I don't have time to catch all the videos, but by watching some Top videos, plus reviews of games that I'm interested in or curious about, I'm better able to appreciate the rating of the review. 2) The top X videos really do a great job analyzing the games (which ARE good games, to make it on a top X list) - and I love when there's some disagreement. I get to see a video that someone think is top tier, and then hear from someone else what they didn't like about it.
Hi Tom, thanks for sharing. I'm a big fan and have been for over 13 years (when I started playing board games), and I remember Scott Nicholson's reviews! I was so bummed when he stopped doing reviews. It looks like he has a new channel called "Introspective with Scott Nicholson" which is about board game design. I loved listening to your 'behind the scenes' views of board game reviewing in this video. Have you ever considered doing a documentary on the Dice Tower? I would love to watch a show talking about the evolution of the Dice Tower, and see behind the scenes of you and your whole crew. Keep up the good work - you guys are fantastic.
As an amateur who occasionally reviews board games on my blog, the biggest problem that I have (which prevents me from doing board game reviews more regularly) is how hard it is to get groups together to play the games. I don't know if the people who Tom plays with are also reviewers, but the people I play with certainly aren't. And living in Vegas, I have the added problem of hardly anybody works a "normal" M-F 9-5 job. So we're lucky to be able to play a game more than once a month, simply because we can't get everybody's schedule aligned to play.
Hello, lovely Dice Tower friends. I apologize for the odd intro/outro editing mistake. I suppose the upside is you can see and hear the behind the scenes MAGIC that goes on. Also, I made a boo boo. -- Mike
I believe you can cut that part out in RUclips Studio itself
The real magic is you Mike! 😊 Honestly I thought it was done as planned since one of the topics was about being authentic
Mistake or not it actually fit the theme of the video itself. A look behind the curtain. Honestly I thought it an artful inclusion.
It actually kind of fit. Something different for a different kind of topic.
Add me to the people who thought it was intentional, going for a documentary vibe
For me, I'm drawn mostly to sincerity. I've never questioned the sincerity of anyone on the DT team, which is why it's one of my go-tos for reviews.
Absolutely agree 👍
The fact that they do the 4-person reviews and they often disagree is something I like. Often other channels everyone agrees which makes me suspicious that they are paid reviews or they have a strong bias for one type of game and never play with different people or have broad tastes. DT usually has someone that covers a particular type of game even if the others don't
A 100% man. Their tastes don't always align with me and in fact their tastes don't even match each other which is so refreshing. But for the most part, their suggestions have not fallen flat with our group 😃
Thankyou for giving negative reviews. Without them we can't trust your positive ones😊
Agreed
Dude. You handle all topics with such class. It's no wonder that you are thought by many as the board game ambassador.
Well put 🙂
There have actually been games that you or someone at the Dice Tower had reviewed and came away tepid on the whole game, not enjoying it at all, but that I’ve walked away from your review thinking “I want to play this game.” It wasn’t a game for that person, but they did a good job explaining to the point that they made it clear who the game is for. I think that’s so special in what you all do.
This video to me, is what makes the the dice tower so great. It’s the authenticity and the ethics that you can tell flows through the team with sincerity.
It’s always a pleasure to watch what they do collectively and there’s a reason it’s endured.
Thanks Tom and the team!
Heavy Dice judgement: Excellent! 😂
I’ve loved how Zee used to give his five points at the end of the review. Where he gave his opinion on aspects of the game. Replayability thematic tie in. Those things. Cause even though he and I have different interests in games. I could still tell if I would like a game he reviewed, whether or not he liked it.
Now having so many reviewers on the channel. I can really look at the games which show on multiple top 100’s. And hopefully DT has Chris Yi do that math/accounting thing he did with the top 100’s last year. It was fun.
Yes. I loved his T.A.R.G.E.T. system. In fact I loved it so much that I hijacked it for my own ratings. Thanks Zee!
Even though Dice Tower is a major board game reviewing channel, it shouldn't be people's only watch. Particularly to the point where you'd say something as bombastic as 'you ruined my career!'. If I'm really torn on a game, I'll usually watch several reviews and read many ratings on BGG. If there's an *actual* problem with a game, it'll usually be pointed out by multiple people, and you'll be able to tell who the 'phonies' are pretty easily. If they aren't buffing the game to get brownie points, then they probably didn't play the game correctly or pay much attention to it. Anyway, I think most people would say that even if they don't always agree with some of the content on The Dice Tower, they appreciate the effort and quality of the content.
You rock Tom! Thanks for all you’ve contributed and looking forward to discovering other game reviewers😊
Great Video Tom. I've been watching for 13-14 years or so, and I've always been able to see the sincerity, passion, and down-to-earth nature and "realness" of Tom and the others. I think he's built a great team, and it's the main touchstone for me and many others when they come out with review for a game you're interested in. I love that they give honest opinions, but don't go out of their way to only review games they like or purposefully play a game they think they won't to trash it for clickbait views. And aren't exclusively a KS preview channel. I think they have been an enormous help informing the gaming consumer for years, and somehow manage to be entertaining while doing it! 100% class and the industry standard. Keep it up!
Tom, I cannot say how much I appreciate your game reviewing efforts. I believe you are reviewing the broadest assortment of games and assigning accurate opinions to them. I agree with your assessments of games that I own. When our opinions differ, I still appreciate your honesty. Keep up the great work. -Shawn
I agree with this a ton. Tom & my taste in games don't line up perfectly. But because the "why I don't like it" is always explained, I can still use a negative review to see if it's a game I might be interested. Or, more often, if I see a review like that, I'll go check out some other reviews. And the opposite holds true as well.
Not only are the "score metrics" reasonable (and not just always 7-10s out of 10), but there's good justification on each review so the viewer can form their own opinions as well.
Absolutely love Tom's honesty, warmth and integrity
Tom.... this video makes me know for certain what I have always thought. I would absolutely love to hang out with you. Very genuine and knowledgeable. Your always the 1st review I look for on any game. Good or bad. Thanks for all that you do.
As someone who has been watching your reviews for well over a decade (and reading them for much longer than that), I wanted to chime in and say how thankful I am for you and the work you’ve done to expand access to the hobby. While my tastes have diverged dramatically from yours over the years, I appreciate your consistent perspectives and the energy you bring to each review. I can usually figure out whether I’d like a game because of how well I know your tastes, and that brings me joy. Much love, Dice Tower. Wishing you well!
I would imagine the toughest part is learning the correct rules. So many games leave at least one question unanswered, now I expect to do research online. I agree that most mistakes don't ruin the game, but some do, and often it's the publisher's / designer's / editor's fault. I just wanted to mention my biggest problem as a board game player. The fun outweighs that frustration, so I keep learning and playing new games.
I can't imagine having to learn so many games per week. It seems really tough.
Rules mistakes (and business deals) seemed to be the things that killed Tabletop (the Wil Wheaton show).
Really well said, Tom. I’m glad to hear that you (and the team) work so hard to be unbiased and honest for your audience even when it’s difficult. Such an ethic will only benefit the board game community and the entire industry in the long run.
Thank you Tom, I really appreciate the direct connection about making the dream of one's passion into a reality can be a life long journey of experiences.
I enjoy having you and your team as part of my quiver of reviewers. I have learned your style and personal preferences. I have learned that some of what is important to you may not be the same to me, and I can adjust my take away from your review accordingly. Thank you for your hard work and I hope you are able to keep doing what you love.
Excellent! I've been watching Tom and the other Dice Tower reviews for a long time now. I use them quite often to help me decide if I want to buy a game I'm interested in. It's not my only input because while I agree with Tom quite often I don't always, and that's ok. I enjoy watching and I do find a lot of aid from the videos. Keep it going!
Really appreciated this video Tom! Btw I’ll never forgot the time you recognized me and asked me if I was okay. Really appreciate you in this hobby.
Great, sincere video. Thank you for all you do together with the Dice Tower team...you were my first go to when I started the hobby and have just grown from strength to strength.
Thanks Tom for all you do, you’ve brought joy into my life by showing me games I love for the first time. Watching the top ten lists with Tom Mike and Zee, (Sam also) has given me hours upon hours of joy and laughter. If not for the dice tower, the board game industry wouldn’t be as strong as it is now. Take care.
Love this video Tom! Thanks for taking the time to post this, it really hits home with us smaller content creators!
Finding what makes your Soul Smile is True Happiness. 😁
Thank you for shining your happiness upon us Tom!!! You and your whole Dice Tower crew. We all Thank you!!!
You, your channel and crew are the ones that pulled me into the hobby. It's amazing and love your reviews.
One of the things i've always liked most about Dictower reviews is that i can usually tell if i'll like the game from the details in the review ,whether or not the review itself is positive or negative. That takes a level of sincerity that a lot of channels don't have.
Can you imagine how boring the hobby would be if everyone all liked the exact same board games? No innovation, no variety - just an endless stream of the same game rethemed over and over again because that's all that's wanted.
One of the things that brings me the most joy while watching board game channels or looking over the Facebook posts for both The Dice Tower and Boardgamegeek is the shear number of different games that I see! I may know what I like already, or at least think that I know, but that doesn't mean I'd ever stop looking at the opinions of others to see if they like something I don't know about; and I certainly wouldn't shame anyone or blame anyone for having different tastes than my own.
Excellent video, Tom! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on what it's like to be in the position of a reviewer. I may not do that myself, I may not have a desire to, but I found the subject enjoyable to watch as someone that regularly comes to this channel for both entertainment and education.
This video was perfectly timed! I keep wondering if I’m doing videos “right,” but I’ll just do them my way and if people like them, great! If not, I’ll still have fun playing games and making videos. Thanks so much! You’re a hero!
I can only speak for myself...but I have noticed for me that my taste in games has evolved over time as well...I used to be up for almost anything...but now I see myself gravitating towards certain types/play times/etc...
I hand it to ya, Tom (and the gang)... I loves me some board games, but I could never be a reviewer, I don't think. For one, if I don't like a game, I can't see playing it enough to give it a review. lol Gaming is too much of my "fun time" to become work, I think. Maybe I'd feel differently if I was somehow offered some great job in the gaming world, but for now, it is just my hobby and I can do nothing but appreciate the people like you who have that ability and help guide us gamers to the gems out there. :-)
Well said! The upside is with so many choices now that one can find something they enjoy. I have found the more I play the more I am finding my taste and niche in games.
Tom, I have a lot of respect for you and what you do each day. Seriously this video gave me a lot of perspective into your situation and all the stress that comes with being in the board game industry. Thanks for your integrity and hard work
Tom, excellent video. Grateful for your reviews and you’re one of my favorites. You present as a genuine person. I love board games and am getting more involved with BGA and starting small groups with friends. I also related what you said to my new pursuit as a writer. I’ve questioned about why I do it, if I’m productive enough, and if I’ll make enough. But truly, I love to write and I want to share my insights with others who understand and appreciate my words. They’re not for every reader, as you wisely understand your reviews may not be for every viewer. I needed this guidance, thank you for your honesty.
The camaraderie, integrity and passion of the whole team is wonderful to see. Thanks for an inciteful video.
The Dice Tower was and is a source of honest and credible reviews and inside and brought me so much joy since this channel dragged me into this great rabbit hole so many years ago. Thank you and all the best.
Showing class and why you are still the Don of Boardgame reviews
Cheers Tom. Your original DT Reviews that I started listening to with the die, falling into the tower, and the Eric Summerer voice over intro (please bring this intro back, btw) helped to rekindle my passion for gaming and exposed me to many many new games (beyond Catan & the MB Gamemaster Series) that I never knew existed. Love that you're still reviewing games and shepherding the DT well. (and I can related with your urge to look at games and wonder -- what is that game like?). Hats off!
It's amazing that you're doing for so long. I also review board games on a separate account and in my native language, but I've only been doing this for like 6 months. Which is why I appreciate this video so much. I always find exactly what I'm looking for in DT: a breakdown of a certain game but also an authentic love for board games.
It’s amazing how much impact Scott Nicholson has had. I got back into gaming largely because of his Ticket to Ride review way back in 2004. It would be fascinating to ponder how things would be today if “Board Games with Scott” never happened.
Tom Vasel reviews got me into the hobby - just found them entertaining, tried a few games and I am appreciative. Have always found Tom and his crew humble and fair - they make it clear they celebrate that there is something out there to suit everyone’s tastes and that their reviews represent their own opinions.
I remember the early BGG reviews from Tom (Duel of Ages.) It's been a long, colorful, circuitous journey! Thanks for sharing your clear, openhearted take. 💙
The best things about your reviews are the sincerity. Never change please ❤❤❤
I admire Tom’s dedication to his career of being a capital R reviewer. He’s found a thing that’s important to him, and done the best he’d could at it, and he’s done a dang good job with it. I’m very thankful that the dice tower is often at the forefront of gaming, as I think it carries itself with integrity, honesty, and a value being honest with the hobby. Thank you Tom & co!
This is an absolutely awesome video from an absolutely stellar team. Tom is the GOAT. Profesional S tier. I see so many overlaps between this and other aspects of life. Great job! May your tribe continue to increase and increase!
Thank you Tom. If you have reviewed a game I'm considering I make a point of watching your reviews cos they are balanced & I feel honest, & sincere. Thanks for sharing your joy of the hobby :-)
When I watch Board Game reviews I won't lie I watch a whole bunch of reviews. Just because Tom likes a game does not mean I will. Just because Tom does not like a game does not mean I wont like a game. I watch them to see game play experiences, what type of game it is, is it a heavy or light game, is it best with 1,2 or more players. I enjoy seeing and hearing multiple people/reviewers view on games and feel that is the best way to make the most educated decision on a game. Dice tower is one of the many that I watch and have extremely enjoyed this honest review. Great work!
I like the way you do a review. You give enough information to give me an idea how the game plays without going overboard and giving too much information. This way I can judge that even if you didn't like a game I might and even if you loved a game I might not. That's what I want from a reviewer.
Thank you for addressing all those issues The Dice Tower and every Reviewer is confronted to. You and all the DT Team are the best. Cheers!
That was a good video. Although my channel is very small, I agree with most of your thoughts here. ☺️
I especially agree with the idea to be 100% honest in your reviews, even if they're not just positive. That's very important.
What a heartfelt reflection video! I was thrilled to meet you and the gang at PAX the year before last. Your channel is one of my favorites, if not the favorite spot I go to. If I am looking at a game and you've reviewed it, I base my final decision on your review. It shows that you enjoy your work. What a job! Many times, I'll admit I just watch your playthroughs solely to be entertained. Watching people play board games is akin to watching sports for others. The back and forth social aspect is engaging. You've added so much to the community and I'm grateful to you and all of your hardworking team.
Heart felt and sincere. I enjoyed this video. I do love watching your board game reviews. But, more videos of this "grown up talk" is great as well. Would love more of this.
I loved the intro/outro mistake. I thought it was intentional and seemed to add some authenticity to the video.
Would love to see an entire "behind the scenes" video. And a bloopers video would be cool too.
Y'all are great!
Thank you Tom. You're a true ambassador for the hobby and I appreciate you and your team's hard work!
Thanks Tom. I don't agree with everyone on everything and the same goes with some of your reviews. However, over the years I appreciate your insight in games. If I ever need more information on a game you are the first resource I check because I can depend on you to give your honest perspective.
Thanks for your insights Tom. Really good to watch.
Appreciate your attitude and your reviews!!
There's probably a bunch of us, who just watch your reviews to hear about the game and don't necessarily comment on them!
Just wanted to comment and say- Keep up the good work!!!
There are some reviewers that showed me what board games were and made me love them. DT Team and you personally, Tom, is one of (but also on the forefront) those reviewers. I now have a lot of friends liking board games as I do, because I showed them what this hobby is. And that happened because you showed me what this hobby is. It might be a minor thing in one's life but for this I'm forever grateful. There were dark times in my life, board games saved me, literally. Thank you, Tom. Thank you DT. I don't know why this sounds like you guys are retiring and I'm leaving a commment but well, there it is!
I'm relatively new to DT and it seems like your opinions are not bought. Really appreciate all of your transparency. You all are some of my fav peeps that I've never met haha.
I really appreciate an honest review, with depth and clarity. Keep up the good work indeed!
I love your reviews, they are great because no matter if I agree with you or not, by looking at them i know if the game will be a good match for me or not. And that’s why i come to the review in the first place. Wonderful job, thank you.
This is so cool. A little peak inside the dice tower vision.
Would love to see more videos of the crew talking about day-to-day stuff. A peak behind the curtain.
Great content as always guys! Thanks so much
This was a surprisingly good and useful discussion. Very straightforward, to the point, focus on having a philosophy of what you are doing. Recommended watching for anyone in this space.
Cool video Tom! Thanks for sharing you're perspective, I love how well you balanced out the conversation.
I can sense your passion!
Great video! I should really make a "problems with being a game store owner" video... But it would be over an hour long LOL
Revenue, margins, customers that don't have high income, rent inflation, inflation in general, amazon/target/wallmart, what to buy, what not to buy, how much to stock, employees hiring/firing/managing etc.
Bonus topics: having to deal with MTG if you sell it, having to deal with single mtg cards if you sell it, events, having to deal with Warhammer if you sell it, food license if you decided being a coffee shop in addition to this not high margin market was a good idea, liquor lice... I'm sorry I was laughing too hard to type more.
Best advice, go get a degree in finance, and play board games with your friends in your free time. If you want to worry about making rent, or don't want to worry about having a mortgage: Open a game store.
Most small businesses fail because people try to monetize their hobbies or underestimate the challenge of generating enough income to cover relentless overheads when there are hundreds of competing low-margin retailers / online stores. Don't do it!
@@amunt3r If one is interested, then one should draw up a business plan, and carefully look at the potential viability. Ensure that you have enough funding to cover the first 3 years, because every penny earned will need to be ploughed back into the business (i.e. no salary for those three years). Whilst it is not easy, if you are up for the challenge, then go for it.
@@PsychicLord You can do all that and still fail. I support my local store unless they are out of stock. But many people will browse a store, ask for recommendations, then check their phone and buy the same product online to save $20. Local retail is a TOUGH TOUGH TOUGH gig. And that's assuming a chain doesn't open up an outlet nearby, just when you've started to break even.
Tom, for what it's worth I very much value you and your teams content.
Thank you for what you do.
The reasons you give about why you do reviews is good for anything in life.
If you don’t enjoy whatever job you have, whatever activity you do, whatever relationship you are in…. Stop and get out and re-evaluate.
Tom is freakin awesome!!!
While I love playing new games as much as most people, I think a niche that would work out well if the right effort was put into it would be games which are going to (very likely) be published in the mainstream market (Target, etc) for a very long time because they're "evergreen". People dump on Catan and even Pandemic sometimes for being too simple or too old, but they've got their foothold in the mainstream market and they're likely to stick around for a very long time, and that means there's a real enough audience for a channel to become worth it.
Initial videos on these games would simple how-to-plays, sure, but the main meat of such a channel would be digging into strategic advice ("Pandemic: Basics of Crisis Management") or even meta-discussion ("How to be a Great Player: Cooperating on the Fly (Featuring Pandemic)"). The mission statement would be improve *player literacy*, and eventually improve player quality across all kinds of games not just the mainstream ones. The goal would be to get more kinds of people to answer "Would you like to play a boardgame?" with "Sure!" because they at least know how to play and maybe even feel confident about those mainstream games.
This can branch off into videos talking about more general strategy advice for that kind of game ("How to be a good negotiator (Featuring Catan)"). Sure there might not be much depth in any particular game, but you can use discussion of a mainstream game to improve the quality of players for all games. Besides, you can even include simple variants which you like and do actual-plays that involve those variants, so it wouldn't be constantly just "yet another Catan video". There could even be RUclips "shorts" covering a tiny topic in less than a minute which could be sent to anyone right before you start playing.
It would definitely have to be a passion project, at least at first, and it wouldn't get a ton of views immediately despite being about mainstream games, but it would be a unique approach and have potential to become big with the right effort. Besides, it would bypass a significant number of the reviewer problems mentioned here.
I want to reply to your comment with a counter perspective. I'm not trying to say one is right and the other is wrong but just want to provide a different viewpoint. First, I think your idea of trying to help make board gaming more accessible / ease people into the hobby is a worthy mission. Providing overviews of how generally used mechanisms function in games like worker placement, drafting, action selection, etc are examples that make sense.
However, I have a different view on the value of providing lots of strategy guidance specific to individual game titles. I think a big part of the satisfaction of playing a game is exploring and uncovering various strategic approaches that unlock the puzzle of a game and provide a sense of progression in your ability to play well. Doing this without a lot of detailed information from others builds the player's own self-confidence in their ability to do this with other games and then eventually tackle more complex games. In some ways it's like the old saying about "teach a man to fish" vs just giving them a fish.
In any case, pursue your passion and happy gaming!
I love the Dice Tower, because of many many reasons.
just to mention a few, they don't necessarily buy the games they review, that allows them to review something they wouldn't have bought at first sight.
there's someone for everyone, I happen to resonate more with Tom's taste, others might feel that way about Zee, Camila, Roy, etc.
and finally the shear volume of reviews, it's just amazing
This is a video that is appreciated. I appreciate negative reviews and limited reviews.
Even negative reviews can be free press for publishers and designers. I know it's just one anecdote, but a reviewer on another channel commented that they didn't like a particular game because it was "too introductory." But after watching their description of it, I knew it was just the right kind of game for a friend of mine and I bought it. Lucked out and got it on sale, too!
Tom, I think you short change your mission statement. I always get the feeling that you do this because not only do you have a passion for gaming itself but that you know how the magic of gaming can bring people together in a way few other things can. And it seems like you want to provide people with information that will allow them to make that magic happen in their own relationships with all kinds of people. Would the new Pitch Car setup surprise on the dining room table every Christmas morning have become a family tradition without the Dice Tower? No way. I would have never even considered that game on my own. I taught Long Shot the Dice Game to my adult daughter and her boyfriend over Christmas. They were lost after the first round, but thanks to your play through video, I was able to get them past the rough spots and we had one of the best game experiences ever. I love your crew for the combined passion, integrity, and commitment to fun. I don't always agree with the reviews, but that is also part of the fun. Keep rolling.
Great advice, Tom. I think a lot of what you said is valuable/applicable beyond board games too.
Very sincere and well considered. People that will harass or abuse somebody over BOARD GAMES may need to get a bit of perspective.
Tom, I have been following the DT podcast and your reviews for over a decade, I got into gaming in 2004 and you were my to go reviewer. Once I developed my taste in games I know where our tastes are shared and were these do not match for example I do like a good trading in the Mediterranean game. I like your format as it is short and sweet.
This video is honest and that is what I look for in a review. The lookbacks are great and I really enjoy them.
In terms of the industry, monetizing a hobby is something I am not willing to do so I enjoy my games and I started getting a huge fondness for the "Cult of the Old"
Good to see a more personal side of Tom. Hope to see more videos of his musings in the future. One thing that I felt like wasn't mentioned was the ethics of promoting consumerism and how to help people narrow down what they should actually buy from the many many many games that do get a positive review, but I guess that responsibility is mostly on the individual looking to buy games.
Thanks Tom for the video, I am a small time game reviewer channel and feel like I am making videos in a vacuum. I make these videos because I love board games and this is a way I get to talk about them. Thanks again for the video.
Great video. loved it. Im amazed how much you guys do and show little signs of fatigue doing it. I love boardgames but I need breaks from reading all the rules and so on so forth and I only go through a tiny fraction of what you guys do. AND you are having fun with it AND you work on not letting yourself fall victim to cliche so its extremely respectable. I do love your format the most for reviews and its why nomatter how many other creators I add to my subs, I tend to always come back here for more. But yah, wishing you many many more reviews.
I also have to say, I was originally a bit turned off by the group reviews but now that I got used to them, I wouldnt go back to the previous model so kudos to you and your team (whoever came up with the idea) because it was a great innovation of your brand. In contrast, some other major content creators have been adding more and more "sub-creators" and I find myself watching less and less of their content
Great video and great feedback for reviewers. I find myself in that hole of despair sometimes as n content creation and appreciate the sage words or wisdom.
Hey, I said it 100 times for years, so guess what? I will say it again because people forget: I love Tom, I love Zee, I love Mike, Roy, Wendy, Chris, Camilla, Joey, previously Sam, I just love you guys (not as people, I don't know you personally!) but as reviewers and mediators of this hobby of ours, because you guys are GENUINE. This is the most important trait. Been watching Tom since Melody was a little kid, now my own kids have grown up and I will still watch Tom in 10 years. You are my window through board games, Tom, so within the flow of bad stuff you might receive being a public person, allow me to send some human to human love to help you on your journey. Cheers!
Great video, Tom. I'm not interested in being a board game reviewer myself but I still found this meaningful.
Tom continues to be the king. I listened to the podcast in the very early days.
Hey tom. You are amazing. Your ideas came from your heart. They were honest. I love it when someone is doing it because they love it and that shows through completely with you keep up the great work. Thank you.
Thank you for the honest speech, sir. Something(s) might have pushed you to want to speak about this, but I think most people are happy with the dice tower content in terms of structure and quality.
Publishers and fans of a any given game are still relatively a minority that tends to be vocal and quite loud in response to any "negative" content. That is why they tend to stand out. This is despite their projects being kickstarted by people who believed in it regardless of any reviews that could come later on.
I love the dice tower and I think it was made by passionate reviewers and for the people.
I'm on my way to be come 40 years old and I haven't particularly commented much dice tower on videos since I stumbled on the channel long long ago. But I felt the need to say this.
My kids love Tom Vasel, Zee Garcia and Mike Di Lisio and it is always a joy to them to play against their haint represntations in the Vagrantsong song promos or visit Tom's shop in flamecraft. After all those years, the dice tower team is practically family at this point.
Keep doing what you are doing. You cannot please everyone (in anything) and most people love the dice tower. My children do.
Sincerest regards from my family here in Dubai.
Sometimes small mistakes in the rules make it better too 😅
Negative reviews are part of the business, and reviewers that never give them out are suspect in my opinion.
To me, a completely bizarre way to evaluate a reviewer.
Some reviewers don’t enjoy giving reviews to games they don’t like.
Stop and think about it. They had a bad experience, and just want to move on.
Why in God’s name would that make them less credible?
I assume that reviewers are genuine, unless they give me clear evidence that they are not. You seem to start with the assumption that reviewers are not genuine, for some reason, but must prove themselves to you.
I´ve never understand how you guys do it, learn games, play them and then make videos constantly, such a feat! You guys are all amazing and I admire you all for what you do. This is not an easy job, some people think it is, no way in hell it is. Dedication, commitment, lots of other things it takes to be able to do this for such a long time, keep it up! I disagree with you guys regarding games but that´s life, all good same as some others we reach common ground, I like games you guys like and don´t like games you guys like and like games you guys don´t like. So funny.
I like the communication and the sincerety a lot, thank you Tom.
The lecturing of smaller game-reviewers seems off to me though.
Let people do it for the money, if that's what they are driven by. The more game-reviewers the better. Are there really any "bad reasons" to do a good game review? Saying that people should have specific reasons to do reviews rubs me the wrong way..
Cheers.
Great video. This could become a code of ethics for content development ifor board games. I was looking into relaunching my channel and your points made me think and confirm some of my ideas and explore new ones. Thank you.
What is really great about most game reviewers is that they respect the design, production and inspiration that people are exhibiting, even when the play may not always be that great. Through play we become very close to this art form, and tend to honor the work involved in creation. This stands in contrast to the horrible way in which the communities creating movies are treated. Thank you and most of your cohorts setting a high example.
You guys are really a great source of knowledge. And fun to watch.
In my country there are many game reviewers which seemingly 'like everything'. The have many 'How to play' videos for anything on the shelf, and everything is embelished with 'This is great!'. And... it's not great. It's just available. I can only assume they have a relationship with the local importers.
It skews game design in the country. It skews the public. It skews the age group (because they 'get away with those reviews more easily' because they show all games as children games).
There's no one giving a real honest opinion on the games we do have.
The biggest problem is the amount of hype that surrounds every new release on Kickstarter, perpetuated by every online content creator. We've reached a point where you can make a mild criticism of a game and be drenched in comments praising the honesty of the critique and that's because people are starved for authenticity.
If a friend asks us if a game is good we sing either high praise or venomous, somewhat exaggerated, scorn because that's how we talk to one another and yet every video from some creators is either glorious praise or tepid at best approval. Nothing feels real and I get it, it's hard to bite the hand that feeds. If you crap on a game the publisher may stop sending you early releases which means you'll miss those views other channels are getting. It's a tough spot to be in.
But the Dice Tower is amazing and never once have I questioned your dedication and enthusiasm. It's the reason I'm here. I think RUclips is changing for the better and channels that are more real are going to win in the long run. Hell, my favorite Dice Tower videos are the negative ones! I love seeing you get mad about how bad a game is.
That is very insightful. Thank you Tom!
Great video! The pressure is always there for sure and when it’s not your job it makes it extra difficult to carve out time to record, edit etc. But you’re right though, if it’s something you love you stick with it and it will stay worthy of the hours you put into it.
I think many of us ‘grew up’ with the dice tower in our board game journey so thanks for all the effort you’ve put in over the years 😁👍🏻.
Oh and btw, thanks for shouting out my channel in the thumbnail 🤣🤣.
I’m now going to go play some Fractured Sky and then continue watching your top 100. Thanks for everything Tom (and everyone else at DT!).
I thoroughly enjoyed this video. As a board game enthusiast, I wholeheartedly resonate with the camaraderie and shared joy that comes from gaming with friends or perhaps teaching a new game to a willing audience. It's what board gaming should be all about, having fun. While I've admittedly made my fair share of rule blunders, I've been fortunate to game with a group of understanding friends who always guide me tactfully towards a corrected interpretation. This video actually reminded me why I do watch reviews on this channel. I watch the reviews on this channel because I genuinely believe they provide balanced and well-reasoned insights into various games I might have an interest in. I may not always agree with the conclusions but that is okay, different views help! Looking forward to more great reviews and opinions!
Gotta be honest, I couldn't do this job because I couldn't do negative reviews although I know that those reviews are equally as valuable as positive ones.
Back when there were record stores, we had a locally-owned shop that published album reviews in a monthly newsletter. When someone asked why they hadn't reviewed the latest album by a big-name band, they noted in the next issue that they only had room in the newsletter for what they had liked; if a major release was conspicuously missing, that in itself told you something.
What a great video. I really enjoyed watching this! Couldn't agree more with you on all points!
First of all, thanks for your devotion and hard work during all these years. I've been following the Dice Tower since the early days of BGB, and I'm still here watching many of the live shows.
I think you have a fantastic team with different taste in games. I know that I usually have more in common with you and Chris than for example Zee and Camilla. But sometimes they make me notice a game I would have missed otherwise (a long time ago, Zee got me interested in Targi). Of course I don't agree with all your reviews, but that's fine. We all have different opinions. You are doing a job I know I couldn't handle even though I love games. Keep up the good work!
Love that intro!
And outro!
I used to be a video game reviewer and the problems and challenges are very simular
Choosing what to review is number one also knowing what game is good to review and what to pass on to someone else or not at all
The hardest part is what I call the experts dillema
If you have played 300 games in the same category - it's harder to be amazed at something - while for a less experienced player it might be an eye-opener
Also the enviroment plays a big role (good or bad) - if you play a new game with your friends a have a good time - you probably have more positive thoughts about it and vice versa
How many times do you have to play a game in order to give it a good review / what is the impact of amount of players
So many variables - for me it's about finding reviewers who have simular taste as you have and who you trust.
2 things I really appreciate with the Dice Tower reviews:
1) Whether a game is reviewed/rated by more than one DT person, the frequent Top 10 and Top 100 lists really showcase what each person likes differently. I don't have time to catch all the videos, but by watching some Top videos, plus reviews of games that I'm interested in or curious about, I'm better able to appreciate the rating of the review.
2) The top X videos really do a great job analyzing the games (which ARE good games, to make it on a top X list) - and I love when there's some disagreement. I get to see a video that someone think is top tier, and then hear from someone else what they didn't like about it.
Hi Tom, thanks for sharing. I'm a big fan and have been for over 13 years (when I started playing board games), and I remember Scott Nicholson's reviews! I was so bummed when he stopped doing reviews. It looks like he has a new channel called "Introspective with Scott Nicholson" which is about board game design.
I loved listening to your 'behind the scenes' views of board game reviewing in this video. Have you ever considered doing a documentary on the Dice Tower? I would love to watch a show talking about the evolution of the Dice Tower, and see behind the scenes of you and your whole crew. Keep up the good work - you guys are fantastic.
There is actually a History of the Dice Tower series of videos, it's great.
As an amateur who occasionally reviews board games on my blog, the biggest problem that I have (which prevents me from doing board game reviews more regularly) is how hard it is to get groups together to play the games. I don't know if the people who Tom plays with are also reviewers, but the people I play with certainly aren't. And living in Vegas, I have the added problem of hardly anybody works a "normal" M-F 9-5 job. So we're lucky to be able to play a game more than once a month, simply because we can't get everybody's schedule aligned to play.