Rodney's #9 gave me a lightbulb moment... I realized that chasing "the perfect game" has been an obsession of mine for a few months now. I'm going to try lowering my expectations and just enjoy the moment. Thanks Rodney!
I had this thought a few months ago when I realized I was not really buying a game for the game but the hope that others would want to play it and that we would have fun etc.
I actually am aware that I'm chasing near perfect games, but I do that on purpose. If I lower my expectations, I end up with hundred games and I get to play like 20 of them, others would just lie there gathering dust. With the "perfect game" approach, I can keep my collection small but more impactful. I guess it's just a matter of perspective. But truth is I don't do that with just playing games, only with buying.
My wife is blind and we fell in love with playing pandemic together early in our marriage. I am constantly looking for "that game" that will bring back those feels...
I'm the one who buys games, read rulebooks and then teaches the game. When I teach the game, someone doesn't pay attention, makes jokes and halfway game says "that's unfair, you didn't tell me I can do that, this is how you're winning games all the time" I'm loosing it. Sorry :D
What would happen to me all the time while teaching. People cracking jokes, looking on reddit, and telling me "lets just play" THEN pitching a fit when they do something wrong and i correct them. THEN complain how i never told them that, and how im cheating. I'd say well you guys weren't paying attention and didn't let me finish explaining. After that happening a few times. While teaching other games, whenever they would say "okay lets just play" I'd add.... Okay but I don't want to hear it when you try to do something that isn't allowed, if you don't want to let me explain everything then don't complain that i didn't tell you something. We're talking like, it takes me 10-15 minutes to explain the game and their attention span stops at 8-10 minutes. AND i could cut it down to ten minutes if you people weren't on your phones! Lol
Ive been watching the DT for many many years. This video is by far one of the best. I felt like I was watching a TED talk on our beloved hobby. Truly insightful. Rodney should change his name to The Professor. I'm sure he is responsible for teaching games to a huge percentage of board gamers. There are many other channels that teach games but few are as impactful as Mr. Smith. I hope that he will be back and play in a future marathon.
@@waldemarcordero5932 wholesome comment but you should write that in the general chat for a higher chance that they will see it. Anyway hope you have a great day😄
Hearing Tom talk about opening a rule book and immediately closing it totally hit home for me. My brother bought me Seven Wonders, I opened the rule book, flipped through, set it down and said "there must be a better way." And that's how I came across Rodney and the Watch it Played channel. Thanks Rodney!
I just got Seven Wonders, too. I agree, the rulebook was a bit intimidating. I watched Rodney’s video where he plays the game with his kids. That made it so much easier for our group to get going. In the end, we really enjoyed the game. (Just be sure to play with 3 or 4 players the first time. The rules for a 2 player game are much more complicated.)
Wait, 7 wonders? That's a good rulebook, imo. Plus it's a simple enough game. My experience was with a GMT game. Dropped 70 bucks, opened the box. Never played it even once... 6 years later.
@@pankakotakismegalomavropou3355 Might be a good rulebook, but it's still a rulebook, and poring over the manual isn't everyone's cup of tea. Hence the success of Rodney et al.
This was one of my favorite Top 10 lists the Dice Tower has ever done! I could have listened to Rodney talk about board games for another 3 hours. Humorous, yet such thoughtful insights from everyone. Thank you!
My biggest pet peeve is going to a new gaming venue and not being made welcome or included. I hate that so much! I probably err on the side of overly friendly but I make sure when people come to a gaming event I'm running, that I say hi, and ask if they want help learning or drop out of my game and play something so they feel comfortable. It is the worst feeling to just be standing there by yourself and have no one even acknowledge your existence.
@@darbyl3872 You're not saying that instead of saying something to the waitress, you sat there silently until someone noticed you didn't touch your food, right?
@@darbyl3872 You must be American. Nobody has told you but I'll be the one to tell you, this is not a them problem it is a YOU problem. If you got your food without silverware and nothing was said don't sit there and stare in front of you, ask the bloody waiter. There's only 2 reasons I can think of why you didn't get silverware: 1) The waiter simply forgot (it shouldn't happen but guess what we're all human and sometimes we forget things). 2) That food wasn't supposed to be eaten with silverware. In both of these cases you're the one that should've said something. Also this might be a different thing in the USA but in Europe I expect the employees to not talk to me about things, if there is something I need or I'm looking for which is rare, I will ask one of them. Don't get me wrong I love nicher stores that have no employees and the person that owns the place is passionate about things and wants to help you (like a hobby store for instance), but when I go to a DIY place I don't expect people to randomly start inquiring if I need help.
@@darbyl3872 Why couldn’t you ask for silverware *and* decide not to eat there again? I understand you wanted better service, but why waste good food waiting instead of asking?
@@darbyl3872 in that case, why not just leave and tell them you're unhappy and not paying? I just don't understand why waste 15m of your time and let the food sit there.
Amen to that. I went to a meetup once with my kid. For the next month's meetup they put in an age limit specifically to keep my kid out. I never went to their meet ups again.
@@heikkihegemon493 I agree with the research part though. If youre going to make a game about a subject, research it. Otherwise you might lose some of that audience, and also look like a fool. These days, researching is so easy, just put a little work.
I think this might be my favorite Top 10 you guys have ever done. The addition of Rodney was amazing of course, but I really did agree with EVERY SINGLE ONE of your points. This is spot on and encapsulates all of my frustration with gaming as a hobby and gamers as people. Its a great reality check for things that I might find myself falling into from time to time as well. This will be an evergreen video, and I will make sure to share it with as many people as possible.
This should be a mandatory watch for anyone new to the hobby! Some things mentioned on here have taken me years to overcome and I'm still working on others.
But...but...but.... I thought the whole point of a lot of the video was to discourage people from telling other people what "should" be "mandatory" and letting people enjoy board games the way they would like to enjoy them
I agree, I played a game with Tom at a convention when I first got into the hobby, then watched the first run of this video a week after did basically the exact thing he described as being unpleasant... wish I watched this (the other video) first!
My wife is a genius. She found a set of cards for babies that are washable. Now, whenever we play games, the baby gets his own set of cards to play with, and he can chew them / drool on them / throw them. It's brilliant! He's still a part of the gameplay, without destroying the game components :)
I once played a game with both a small child and a playful cat present. I gave both of them one of the cribs from which I punched out the cardboard pieces. They seemed both happy with the arrangement.
With my oldest boy I would find ways to alter the rules for him so that I could play with him. Granted it was 2 playered but we could play games like catan and ticket to ride when my kid was 3. He is now 11 and can occasionally beat me in games and can play mid heavy games.
This is by far the best video I’ve seen from the Dice Tower. Rodney is a truly wonderful addition but all three of you were outstanding. Found the whole discussion totally captivating: funny, warm, articulate and very life affirming.... thank you
When I first started to get into gaming, the third game I bought was Mice and Mystics to play with my kids. The rule book actually brought me to literal tears because there was a few things I just couldn’t figure out (role playing was completely foreign to me) ....Rodney’s video saved that experience for me, and also taught me a lesson about gaming in general.... *Don’t rely on rule books!* whenever possible watch Rodney and other walk through and watch some live plays before even cracking the rule book out. It has helped A LOT 😁
It's funny you said this, because that was the 3rd game I bought and I haven ever played it, because that rule book was too much at the time and I've never felt like going back to it, years later.
@@TylerTried You should give it a try. It's not my favorite, but it's a fun dungeon crawl without too many rules. Check our Rodney's watch it played :)
@@TylerTried Definitely watch Rodney's watch it played. Completely explains it. It is pretty fun though a little over my kids heads at the moment (they are still little) I still play it from time to time solo. 👍
There have been a few that I did not get past the rule book. In one I was trying to set up the game. The set up was about 10 pages and I could not get through it. I put it up on ebay... The 2nd told me to use an app to explain the set up. I sold it. A third one I think might have been an expansion because the rule book had NOTHING about how to set up the game. Sold. Have had a few where I stare at the rulebook and just go, nope. Sold them.
Not very surprised but Rodney's list is so good. Mainly because it caused me to reflect on certain occasions where I have opportunity to be more considerate to others.
I made the mistake one time of being a "serious gamer" and I felt terrible about it after the fact! I could tell and I learned my lesson. Don't force games on people just cause you want to play them!
I think is because you want to share the "fun". You're having so much fun playing boardgames, so you want everyone to have fun. The thing is not everyone like the same things you do.
Best dice tower video I have seen hands down. Love this list. The chemistry between these three is phenomenal. Rodney is amazing in this video and he does bring some excellent points! We all need to watch this video and do some self reflection. Lmao Thank you all at dice tower! Including the poor boys behind the camera.
This video has a lot of great social commentary about how we can better interact with each other in a social setting, the need for "completism", the need to win, etc. Bravo, gentlemen.
Have to disagree - your anger is perfectly reasonable. Especially when that player later says "You didn't explain that..." Yeah, I did, you just weren't listening.
Yes hate that. Last time we played Arkham Horror one of the players, at the end of the game said "I didnt think much of that, couldnt get into" it" which was annoying as we'd spent the whole game chatting and not paying attention to any aspects of the game. Also why mobile phones should be discouraged at the table.
Honestly, Rodney's channel helped me get into the hobby so much. Like a 20page rulebook sounds a lot scarier than it is. And having someone walk you through every detail is such a godsend. But even review channels like the Dice Tower are great with their quick, maybe incomplete overview. Those things make the games more approachable. They helped build up the confidence to tackle the bigger rule books
Barenpark is the worst culprit of this. First you had to assemble the box insert and figure out how it fit in, it then didn't work. Triangular sections for squarish pieces. I three mine in the bin and just put all the pieces in bags.
What a great idea for a Top 10! So much truth in Tom, Zee, and Rodney's lists. If I could add a handful more .. 1. A game which says it's for 2-6 players, but the 2-player requires you to control 3 characters each 2. A game which says '30 minutes' but is impossible to play in under 3 hours 3. A game which does not include a detailed component list and/or game setup picture 4. A rulebook which does not show examples of game play.
To make a point about Rodney’s number seven, that is in my personal opinion the biggest reason why it’s so great to have you guys reviewing games as much as you do.So thank you guys for doing what you do, it has contributed to many of my informed decisions over the years!
Rodney’s number one happened to me last year. I was at the first convention I had ever gone to and had just gotten done with my first game at that convention. I was on cloud nine and told the two guys I was playing with that I was about to go play Dead of Winter. One of the guys handed me a die and said “here roll this...you’ve basically played Dead of Winter”. I got up and walked away from the table and avoided that guy the rest of the weekend. Also played DoW and really enjoyed it.
Re: Zee’s #3 ...There is a saying in surfing “The best surfer is the one having the most fun” ...I would suggest we could apply this to gaming: “The best player is the one having the most fun.”
I enjoy Rodney's way of thinking and attitude. He brings a kind and balanced perspective. With certain combinations of presenters, it often devolves into arguments over semantics etc that last longer than the actual game related content.
Dice Tower 2020 has been *by far* the best consistent high quality content you have been putting out in the 10 years since I have been subscribed. Thanks for all the hard work and good humor! And all of the guests have been amazing please keep it up. And lastly kudoos to Mike and Roy for stepping in and adding their unique tastes too!
What a great candid conversation about things that us as gamers need to be conscientious about since gaming is a group hobby. I loved Rodney in this video so much, he is so good at explaining things (no wonder he has a show about How To Play lolz). Thanks again for the great content 👏🏻
When I was newish to gaming (new to a game group). I seen some guys playing some wargames. I'm just a curious gamer. I went up to them and asked them what they were playing and such. They basically said "nothing you'd understand", because they seen me playing some light games earlier. I wonder why there was never more than 2 of them.
Most underrated Roleplaying Game accessory. You haven't lived until you sit in a basement for 6-8hrs that smells like day 2 of Woodstock. This is the number one reason I hate going to game stores...they literally stink like a whorehouse at low tide.
S L That’s so spot on. My GF doesn’t like going into our FLGS because of the smell. She says it’s like a boys locker room... it’s as if many of these guys have no concept of hygiene or body odor.
I considered that, by far, the best "10"-video you´ve ever made. I learned a lot about myself and my gaming behaviors and my surroundings. thank you guys
Wow, Rodney really elevated this to a whole other level. Most of these top 10s are super fun - this one was a little less fun but really thought-provoking! What a great change of pace. Please have him on more!
I agree with Rodney's number 10, I've been trying to start a game group. But finally I got up enough courage and reached out to my library and their youth coordinator, and will be starting a club in September for students and teens.
Body odor...especially smokers that go out for a smoke and then come back and smell like an ashtray...can't stand it, I'll leave a game rather than have to smell that for a couple of hours.
Yep, there's a heavy boardgame meet up my group makes that I only went once. The issue? Cigarrete smoke. I came back home smelling like a heavy smoker and I didn't like it at all. Sorry guy I'm gonna skip that meet up.
I've been watching you guys since i started board games years ago, and this was probably the best top 10 I've seen of yours. The personal aspect of it instead of solely discussing board games and the chemistry with Rodney was incredible. Was so good to learn a bit more about you chaps
Rodneys' number 9 was DOPE, I do this all the time especially with games with limited number of plays. I try to wait to play with perfect number and group and end up never playing at all. Zee's number 3 is super good as well, really a great lesson in general for people who are elite about random things.
This really is fantastic! Speaking as a philosopher, I think a lot of these points apply not just to other hobbies, interests -- and commitments such as one's religion -- but are very insightful about human nature and psychology in general. Well done guys!
Please, oh Please, hire Rodney for your daily recordings. He adds an educational preservative, expressed in a thoughtful and positive manner. He helps elevate Dice Tower to another level that wasn't expected. (Yes, Sam is missed).
Rodney, you just brought a tear to my eye with your presentation of your #2 enemy of games. I've been in this hobby for over 15 years now and have watched more hours of boardgame Vloggers than I probably care to admit. But this all too infrequent call for diversity was really wonderful. And I never post, ever. So thank you. And thank you to Dice Tower for providing the platform. Also. I love Canada.
While I have liked many DT videos, this is the first one that I have really wanted to join in on the conversation! Thank you! On Zee’s #3, I agree that forcing games on someone isn’t good but I kept thinking, “what about someone who just doesn’t know about what games can be?” If they’ve never tried something, they don’t know they don’t like it yet! And so encouraging others, especially those we want for them to have joy and fulfillment, is a way of expressing love for them and sharing of yourself. Evangelism is only negative if it’s only for self fulfillment. Thanks again for the great conversation!
I really enjoy the humor, wisdom and practicality shared by all three of you. I am a better person for hearing how much you care about people and the best ways to make gaming a fun experience for all who come near it. I didn’t realize how many life lessons can be practiced in this hobby. I feel more connected to people as a whole because of what you shared. There’s more that can draw us together than divide us if we simply choose to be tolerant and considerate. I’m excited to keep playing and treat people better. Thank you for creating and sharing the content that you do. I’m guilty of enjoying watching you guys talk about games almost as much as I enjoy playing them.
57:04 And this impatient person is *always* the one who ends up complaining an hour later when you explain a minor rule exception. "You should have told us that!" Grrrrrrrr....
I'm perhaps that impatient person but I'd rather play the game and do it poorly than listening to someone giving a 15 minute lecture. But I will never complain about you checking the rules. I think that how we learn games are not the same for every person.
Chatting. The one thing that happens most in my board game group is that we decide to play board games, but we also love just to chat, and the boardgame never starts. I try not to push it too much (im usually the one with the games) but when i see an opening in the chatter i go like "OK! So, about this boardgame...." Its more troubling when some people at the table are not that into boardgaming.
Wolforce but you have fun? You said you’re love to chat. If is like that is fine. You have to remember that this is a social thing. We have the same problem sometimes but when it happens usually is because we have a great conversation and everyone is involve and laughing and having a nice time that we don’t see the problem. Maybe we play less games that we wanted or planned but always will be a next time. And that’s good too. Have something for the next gathering! Remember the important part of gaming is having fun and have a good time!
Chatting is a good one. In my game group, we usually take the step from chatting to gaming with someone saying "We are not here to have fun!", and everyone knows what to do. Yes, we have a weird kind of humor, but we love both chatting and playing games, so it is ok.
I really liked Rodney as part of your trio. This was a good conversation that made me evaluate how I act not just for games, but life in general. Most thought-provoking top 10 yet. “Oh no, have I been THAT guy?!”
Amazing! Top notch video guys. You guys brought these points up in a way I feel I could I learn from and not feel torn down. Loved the positivity. Loved the respect for people having varying opinions and tastes. Especially right at the end, all 3 of you. I nearly shed a tear or two on how uplifting and inspiring the view of board gaming is that you presented. Having majored in psychology and gone through some rough patches myself in being a tad "alpha" I have watched the behavior in myself and others for a while trying to figure out what's behind it. I'm sure there are other reasons, but here are three things I've observed: 1) Sometimes people want others to be like them (play the games they play) because they want to connect with that person, but don't know how (because of different personalities or whatever) and so not knowing what to do, they try to pull that person into their familiar territory so they have a known foundation to work from. 2) Another scenario I have seen for "alpha" (aka controlling) behavior is simply insecurity, which often the person isn't consciously aware of. They have the need to constantly "prove" they're better than you, have collected more or rarer games than you, etc because in reality they don't feel good enough and so they try to compensate with a "bravado." 3) Sometimes people act unpleasantly simply because they have not had good examples. They act that way cause that's how their family did growing up and they didn't realize yet that it doesn't set well with people. Even caring about whether or not another person around us is bothered is something we can pick up from examples around us. Realizing these things can often be behind a lot of abrasive behavior helps me to most of the time more patient with these situations.
This channel is always so much fun to watch. It’s really great because for us gamers we gain wisdom and insight into what we might be doing whether it be good or bad. And you do it in a way that is hilarious!!!
I’ve only recently started to appreciate him. He’s really awesome! I’ve met Tom Vassal for a pic and now Rahdo, and passed an opportunity to meet Rodney because I didn’t know about him. Now he’s on my list :-)
Half of these reminded me of what I am annoyed at about gaming (schedules, constant texters, etc.), the other half made me think of issues I may have that I could work on. Rodney's #9 hit me like a ton of bricks. This list is a good reality check.
I really liked your top 10s! I've been a gamer for 20 years now and could relate to all of your enemy statements! I might have put mine in different order but you did a fantastic job. I was also very entertained :) My top comments were: Rodney - #2; Zee - #6, Tom - #3. Great job chaps!
Oh god, the scheduling item really hit home... Beside boardgameing we also love to play D&D and so many campaigns are just dieing after 3 or less sessions... Though yesterday we managed to start a new one and maybe we can keep this one alive :)
This is by far the best DT video I've seen. Great topic with candid, considered, engaging, and entertaining discussion. Many of the points raised have me thinking about some of my own gaming behaviours and how they could be improved. A great synergistic mix of personalities and styles - well done!
What an excellent episode. there is so much psychology contained and insights about human behavior. I really enjoy all episodes with Rodney and The Dice tower.
"Messy Eaters" - YES! Omaha's biggest gaming scene is the Spielbound Board Game cafe. And I hate it when someone orders a pizza or fried mozarella sticks and is handling my cards with greasy hands!
I was so shocked to see Rodney there. I have learned so many games by watching his channel. What a fantastic fit. His insights are great. I know I'm a little late commenting on this as I am just trying to catch up but this was honestly very pleasant to see. Hope to see a lot more of him in the future that's for sure. What a great choice.
This video was really great. Had a good mix of complex topics and silly fun laughs. Rodney and the boys have great chemistry and work well off each other, hopefully they can do more things together in the years to come.
Wow, Rodney added great comments, and while I miss Sam, I think he was the perfect addition (never a replacement) to bring his perspective to this list. And thanks for making this list again, I remember watching the old one.
This is the best list I have ever seen on this channel and I had so much fun watching this lol From dead people getting their kickstarter 2 years later to ironically being finicky this is gold, this group should get together more often
Thank you very much for this video. It was definitely insightful. I am sure most of us here recognize most of the points raised. And sadly i have also acted like some of these enemies. But i do believe that some of the points raised, like the BORG gamer or the SERIOUS gamer, are because of people are being very enthousiatic, but are also inexperienced. I think that as soon as you get a better feeling of what you like, explained games more often and generally have more gaming experiences. The urge to be like that kind of fades. That is at least what happened to me. What it boils down to is that gaming is a social activity. And being social also needs to be learned. It makes me glad to see that with these videos the human element of gaming is not forgotten or disregarded.
It is so cool to see Rodney with a personality. He provides a super valuable service based off of being as neutral and carefully spoken as possible, I suspect a lot of people enjoyed this video so much just because they've watched him for years and never heard an opinion come out of his mouth
I have been watching the dice tower videos since the start and this is one of the best. Rodney Smith is such a good inclusion and had some great thoughts. Most of the non silly opinions were very deep and relevant. Most of them were opposite sides of the coin showing we need to find the middle ground. It all comes down to thinking about others and less about ourselves. I thought talking about diversity was great also. This issue should be irrelevant because of supply and demand but it's not.
Rodney's #9 gave me a lightbulb moment... I realized that chasing "the perfect game" has been an obsession of mine for a few months now. I'm going to try lowering my expectations and just enjoy the moment. Thanks Rodney!
I think we all need to do better at that. Thanks for sharing
I had this thought a few months ago when I realized I was not really buying a game for the game but the hope that others would want to play it and that we would have fun etc.
I actually am aware that I'm chasing near perfect games, but I do that on purpose. If I lower my expectations, I end up with hundred games and I get to play like 20 of them, others would just lie there gathering dust. With the "perfect game" approach, I can keep my collection small but more impactful. I guess it's just a matter of perspective.
But truth is I don't do that with just playing games, only with buying.
rodney is an outstanding guy
My wife is blind and we fell in love with playing pandemic together early in our marriage. I am constantly looking for "that game" that will bring back those feels...
Enemy of gaming: A player who declares that the teacher of the game is cheating because you forgot a rule halfway through the game.😡
My brother does this all the time!
I'm the one who buys games, read rulebooks and then teaches the game. When I teach the game, someone doesn't pay attention, makes jokes and halfway game says "that's unfair, you didn't tell me I can do that, this is how you're winning games all the time" I'm loosing it. Sorry :D
Or just generally cheating to win the game.
Or when you do tell them the rules and they weren't listening, then they get upset at you for cheating.
What would happen to me all the time while teaching. People cracking jokes, looking on reddit, and telling me "lets just play" THEN pitching a fit when they do something wrong and i correct them. THEN complain how i never told them that, and how im cheating. I'd say well you guys weren't paying attention and didn't let me finish explaining.
After that happening a few times. While teaching other games, whenever they would say "okay lets just play" I'd add.... Okay but I don't want to hear it when you try to do something that isn't allowed, if you don't want to let me explain everything then don't complain that i didn't tell you something.
We're talking like, it takes me 10-15 minutes to explain the game and their attention span stops at 8-10 minutes. AND i could cut it down to ten minutes if you people weren't on your phones! Lol
Ive been watching the DT for many many years. This video is by far one of the best. I felt like I was watching a TED talk on our beloved hobby. Truly insightful. Rodney should change his name to The Professor. I'm sure he is responsible for teaching games to a huge percentage of board gamers. There are many other channels that teach games but few are as impactful as Mr. Smith. I hope that he will be back and play in a future marathon.
Ramon Arroyo agreed!!
If you like that kind of insight, check out Rodney’s Table Talk segments on his channel.
Rodney now has a new nickname
If Rodney becomes "The Professor," does that mean that he can grant others a Ph.D in Gameology?
My first real boardgame was dead of winter, Rodney's video showed me how to play it. It all begun there for me.
Rodney fits so well, it's like he's always been there!
Rodney is so cool
and so skill throwing box to the aire and catching un the exact time
Zee you are the best. Games should indicate the sweet spot of number of players in wich the game shine best.
@@waldemarcordero5932 wholesome comment but you should write that in the general chat for a higher chance that they will see it. Anyway hope you have a great day😄
It's just too bad that Rodney is Canadian. And I only say that, because I'd love to see him as a regular part of DT.
This was one of the few top 10 lists where I wasn't skipping forward, I actually enjoyed the dialogue.
Hearing Tom talk about opening a rule book and immediately closing it totally hit home for me. My brother bought me Seven Wonders, I opened the rule book, flipped through, set it down and said "there must be a better way." And that's how I came across Rodney and the Watch it Played channel. Thanks Rodney!
Did u like the game?😄
I just got Seven Wonders, too. I agree, the rulebook was a bit intimidating. I watched Rodney’s video where he plays the game with his kids. That made it so much easier for our group to get going. In the end, we really enjoyed the game. (Just be sure to play with 3 or 4 players the first time. The rules for a 2 player game are much more complicated.)
Wait, 7 wonders? That's a good rulebook, imo. Plus it's a simple enough game. My experience was with a GMT game. Dropped 70 bucks, opened the box. Never played it even once... 6 years later.
@@pankakotakismegalomavropou3355 Might be a good rulebook, but it's still a rulebook, and poring over the manual isn't everyone's cup of tea. Hence the success of Rodney et al.
This was one of my favorite Top 10 lists the Dice Tower has ever done! I could have listened to Rodney talk about board games for another 3 hours. Humorous, yet such thoughtful insights from everyone. Thank you!
Rodney was a great addition. Very thoughtful and relatable. Not preachy. Able to bring each point down to earth. I hope we see more of him
Great top 10. Hope we get to see more Rodney in the future on the Dice Tower.
He lives in Canada. I hope he can visit much more often.
Rodney's number 2 is so pure. I often come back just to listen to this short segment
My biggest pet peeve is going to a new gaming venue and not being made welcome or included. I hate that so much! I probably err on the side of overly friendly but I make sure when people come to a gaming event I'm running, that I say hi, and ask if they want help learning or drop out of my game and play something so they feel comfortable. It is the worst feeling to just be standing there by yourself and have no one even acknowledge your existence.
@@darbyl3872 You're not saying that instead of saying something to the waitress, you sat there silently until someone noticed you didn't touch your food, right?
@@darbyl3872 You must be American. Nobody has told you but I'll be the one to tell you, this is not a them problem it is a YOU problem. If you got your food without silverware and nothing was said don't sit there and stare in front of you, ask the bloody waiter. There's only 2 reasons I can think of why you didn't get silverware:
1) The waiter simply forgot (it shouldn't happen but guess what we're all human and sometimes we forget things).
2) That food wasn't supposed to be eaten with silverware.
In both of these cases you're the one that should've said something. Also this might be a different thing in the USA but in Europe I expect the employees to not talk to me about things, if there is something I need or I'm looking for which is rare, I will ask one of them. Don't get me wrong I love nicher stores that have no employees and the person that owns the place is passionate about things and wants to help you (like a hobby store for instance), but when I go to a DIY place I don't expect people to randomly start inquiring if I need help.
@@darbyl3872 Why couldn’t you ask for silverware *and* decide not to eat there again? I understand you wanted better service, but why waste good food waiting instead of asking?
@@darbyl3872 in that case, why not just leave and tell them you're unhappy and not paying? I just don't understand why waste 15m of your time and let the food sit there.
Amen to that. I went to a meetup once with my kid. For the next month's meetup they put in an age limit specifically to keep my kid out. I never went to their meet ups again.
Always a pleasure to hear Mr. Rodney Smith talk about games.
Agreed, he has such a pleasant way about him.
Exept for the number 2 identity politics bullshit
@@heikkihegemon493 I agree with the research part though. If youre going to make a game about a subject, research it. Otherwise you might lose some of that audience, and also look like a fool. These days, researching is so easy, just put a little work.
@@heikkihegemon493 *sigh* yep
@@heikkihegemon493 Okay snowflake.
I think this might be my favorite Top 10 you guys have ever done. The addition of Rodney was amazing of course, but I really did agree with EVERY SINGLE ONE of your points. This is spot on and encapsulates all of my frustration with gaming as a hobby and gamers as people. Its a great reality check for things that I might find myself falling into from time to time as well. This will be an evergreen video, and I will make sure to share it with as many people as possible.
No Sam Healy definitely helps.
This should be a mandatory watch for anyone new to the hobby! Some things mentioned on here have taken me years to overcome and I'm still working on others.
But...but...but.... I thought the whole point of a lot of the video was to discourage people from telling other people what "should" be "mandatory" and letting people enjoy board games the way they would like to enjoy them
I agree, I played a game with Tom at a convention when I first got into the hobby, then watched the first run of this video a week after did basically the exact thing he described as being unpleasant... wish I watched this (the other video) first!
My wife is a genius. She found a set of cards for babies that are washable. Now, whenever we play games, the baby gets his own set of cards to play with, and he can chew them / drool on them / throw them. It's brilliant! He's still a part of the gameplay, without destroying the game components :)
Great idea! Where did you find them?
We bought a teething giant dice and seriously hope it will serve this kind of "distraction" purpose!
I once played a game with both a small child and a playful cat present. I gave both of them one of the cribs from which I punched out the cardboard pieces. They seemed both happy with the arrangement.
With my oldest boy I would find ways to alter the rules for him so that I could play with him. Granted it was 2 playered but we could play games like catan and ticket to ride when my kid was 3. He is now 11 and can occasionally beat me in games and can play mid heavy games.
This is by far the best video I’ve seen from the Dice Tower. Rodney is a truly wonderful addition but all three of you were outstanding.
Found the whole discussion totally captivating: funny, warm, articulate and very life affirming.... thank you
When I first started to get into gaming, the third game I bought was Mice and Mystics to play with my kids. The rule book actually brought me to literal tears because there was a few things I just couldn’t figure out (role playing was completely foreign to me) ....Rodney’s video saved that experience for me, and also taught me a lesson about gaming in general.... *Don’t rely on rule books!* whenever possible watch Rodney and other walk through and watch some live plays before even cracking the rule book out. It has helped A LOT 😁
How much did Rodney pay you to plug his channel? ;)
I love his channel too and boy did that help me play Scythe!
It's funny you said this, because that was the 3rd game I bought and I haven ever played it, because that rule book was too much at the time and I've never felt like going back to it, years later.
@@TylerTried You should give it a try. It's not my favorite, but it's a fun dungeon crawl without too many rules. Check our Rodney's watch it played :)
@@TylerTried Definitely watch Rodney's watch it played. Completely explains it. It is pretty fun though a little over my kids heads at the moment (they are still little) I still play it from time to time solo. 👍
There have been a few that I did not get past the rule book. In one I was trying to set up the game. The set up was about 10 pages and I could not get through it. I put it up on ebay...
The 2nd told me to use an app to explain the set up. I sold it.
A third one I think might have been an expansion because the rule book had NOTHING about how to set up the game. Sold.
Have had a few where I stare at the rulebook and just go, nope. Sold them.
Not very surprised but Rodney's list is so good. Mainly because it caused me to reflect on certain occasions where I have opportunity to be more considerate to others.
I made the mistake one time of being a "serious gamer" and I felt terrible about it after the fact! I could tell and I learned my lesson. Don't force games on people just cause you want to play them!
I think is because you want to share the "fun". You're having so much fun playing boardgames, so you want everyone to have fun. The thing is not everyone like the same things you do.
Same here… and more than once.. I'm gonna change myself and thank to my boardgame group that they still want to play with me :D
My two absolute favorite channels collaborated. What a great day! Hopefully they can collaborate more in the future :)
Best dice tower video I have seen hands down. Love this list. The chemistry between these three is phenomenal. Rodney is amazing in this video and he does bring some excellent points! We all need to watch this video and do some self reflection. Lmao Thank you all at dice tower! Including the poor boys behind the camera.
I love the Dice Tower, but I as a father myself I liked this video solely for Tom's "Stop eating your socks" comment lol
This video has a lot of great social commentary about how we can better interact with each other in a social setting, the need for "completism", the need to win, etc. Bravo, gentlemen.
My n1 enemy : someone who chitchats while i am explaining the rules. It makes me irrationally angry 😂
Have to disagree - your anger is perfectly reasonable. Especially when that player later says "You didn't explain that..." Yeah, I did, you just weren't listening.
Yes hate that. Last time we played Arkham Horror one of the players, at the end of the game said "I didnt think much of that, couldnt get into" it" which was annoying as we'd spent the whole game chatting and not paying attention to any aspects of the game.
Also why mobile phones should be discouraged at the table.
Aka my wife
@@RebelChum BINGO.
Very good point. Any ideas on how to prevent/solve this?
Rodney is one of the best game explainer there is. I loved this crossover by the way.
Honestly, Rodney's channel helped me get into the hobby so much. Like a 20page rulebook sounds a lot scarier than it is. And having someone walk you through every detail is such a godsend. But even review channels like the Dice Tower are great with their quick, maybe incomplete overview. Those things make the games more approachable. They helped build up the confidence to tackle the bigger rule books
I’m really liking these videos with Rodney. He fits really well and adds a really great perspective in the discussions.
Wrong Box Size
I don’t want to do a 3D puzzle just to fit the game in the box.
I also don’t want an echo when I put the last meeple away.
Barenpark is the worst culprit of this. First you had to assemble the box insert and figure out how it fit in, it then didn't work. Triangular sections for squarish pieces. I three mine in the bin and just put all the pieces in bags.
That just missed out on my list, I'd say it was my number 357. ;)
What a great idea for a Top 10! So much truth in Tom, Zee, and Rodney's lists. If I could add a handful more ..
1. A game which says it's for 2-6 players, but the 2-player requires you to control 3 characters each
2. A game which says '30 minutes' but is impossible to play in under 3 hours
3. A game which does not include a detailed component list and/or game setup picture
4. A rulebook which does not show examples of game play.
When I first saw this Top 10 topic, I thought it was about actual enemies in games. I was so ready to nominate Dark Mistress from Ghost Stories!
That would be a fun Top 10!!
Fantastic conversation, Rodney brings something very special to those top 10s.
I really enjoy these videos with Rodney. They really work well together and i hope we see him more in the Future! :)
One of best top 10 ever! love having Rodney with the dice tower, hopefully more lists to come with him!
To make a point about Rodney’s number seven, that is in my personal opinion the biggest reason why it’s so great to have you guys reviewing games as much as you do.So thank you guys for doing what you do, it has contributed to many of my informed decisions over the years!
Love the Top 10 with Rodney. I really hope he is a guest again sometime.
Rodney + Dice Tower is just, wow. As much more of this as is possible!!!
Rodney’s number one happened to me last year. I was at the first convention I had ever gone to and had just gotten done with my first game at that convention. I was on cloud nine and told the two guys I was playing with that I was about to go play Dead of Winter. One of the guys handed me a die and said “here roll this...you’ve basically played Dead of Winter”. I got up and walked away from the table and avoided that guy the rest of the weekend. Also played DoW and really enjoyed it.
Re: Zee’s #3 ...There is a saying in surfing “The best surfer is the one having the most fun” ...I would suggest we could apply this to gaming: “The best player is the one having the most fun.”
I love that.
Not if their fun is at the expense of other players.
@@ThanatoselNyx How about we amend it then to the best player is the one creating the most fun?
“Fun of missing out” bravo Rodney!!
Having Rodney here was awesome. I really enjoyed his outlook and opinions.
I enjoy Rodney's way of thinking and attitude. He brings a kind and balanced perspective. With certain combinations of presenters, it often devolves into arguments over semantics etc that last longer than the actual game related content.
Imo, one of the best Dice Tower Top 10s ever.
Dice Tower 2020 has been *by far* the best consistent high quality content you have been putting out in the 10 years since I have been subscribed. Thanks for all the hard work and good humor! And all of the guests have been amazing please keep it up. And lastly kudoos to Mike and Roy for stepping in and adding their unique tastes too!
What a great candid conversation about things that us as gamers need to be conscientious about since gaming is a group hobby. I loved Rodney in this video so much, he is so good at explaining things (no wonder he has a show about How To Play lolz). Thanks again for the great content 👏🏻
Rodney needs to be a recurring feature. So thoughtful, so funny, and a great addition to the channel.
Presenting The-Dice-Tower new A-Team. Hope to see more of these in the days to come. Great Top10.
When I was newish to gaming (new to a game group). I seen some guys playing some wargames. I'm just a curious gamer. I went up to them and asked them what they were playing and such. They basically said "nothing you'd understand", because they seen me playing some light games earlier. I wonder why there was never more than 2 of them.
You got the wrong guys. I am an ASL player, and, I would have told you anything you want to know. Most of us are like that.
SOAP - the most underrated board game accessory.
Ouch
Most underrated Roleplaying Game accessory. You haven't lived until you sit in a basement for 6-8hrs that smells like day 2 of Woodstock. This is the number one reason I hate going to game stores...they literally stink like a whorehouse at low tide.
S L That’s so spot on. My GF doesn’t like going into our FLGS because of the smell. She says it’s like a boys locker room... it’s as if many of these guys have no concept of hygiene or body odor.
Who is stinkier? DnD players, WoW gamers or tabletop folk?
Also for washing your hand after touching those components & furnitures
I considered that, by far, the best "10"-video you´ve ever made. I learned a lot about myself and my gaming behaviors and my surroundings. thank you guys
Very well done, and a much-needed conversation.
Wow, Rodney really elevated this to a whole other level. Most of these top 10s are super fun - this one was a little less fun but really thought-provoking! What a great change of pace. Please have him on more!
I love the way Rodney speaks when he's talking passionately, he's so rational.
I agree with Rodney's number 10, I've been trying to start a game group. But finally I got up enough courage and reached out to my library and their youth coordinator, and will be starting a club in September for students and teens.
Nice! Good job! :)
Can I ask how that went? This year has been miserable for board gaming groups. I haven't convened mine since the first week of March
Sadly never got to start it, it was supposed to begin in September. Even the youth coordinator was upset.
@@chrisclark784 I'm not surprised, but that still sucks. Sorry to hear it, dude :-/
Rodney was a great guest thanks for the discussion all
Body odor...especially smokers that go out for a smoke and then come back and smell like an ashtray...can't stand it, I'll leave a game rather than have to smell that for a couple of hours.
That would be a deal breaker for me too. Hate that smell. Third hand smoke is a real issue.
Now that pot is legal here we also get that smell attacking people as well. Im sorry, but many people hate that smell
Yep, there's a heavy boardgame meet up my group makes that I only went once. The issue? Cigarrete smoke. I came back home smelling like a heavy smoker and I didn't like it at all. Sorry guy I'm gonna skip that meet up.
Its 2020. Smoking seriously needs to stop. I hate it more than just about anything in this world.
@Mm Mm Hating the idea of people willingly giving themselves lung cancer sounds like a noble cause to me.
I've been watching you guys since i started board games years ago, and this was probably the best top 10 I've seen of yours. The personal aspect of it instead of solely discussing board games and the chemistry with Rodney was incredible. Was so good to learn a bit more about you chaps
Rodneys' number 9 was DOPE, I do this all the time especially with games with limited number of plays. I try to wait to play with perfect number and group and end up never playing at all. Zee's number 3 is super good as well, really a great lesson in general for people who are elite about random things.
Easily my favorite top 10 the Dice Tower has done. Many great points and several that I was not previously as aware of.
This really is fantastic! Speaking as a philosopher, I think a lot of these points apply not just to other hobbies, interests -- and commitments such as one's religion -- but are very insightful about human nature and psychology in general. Well done guys!
Please, oh Please, hire Rodney for your daily recordings. He adds an educational preservative, expressed in a thoughtful and positive manner. He helps elevate Dice Tower to another level that wasn't expected.
(Yes, Sam is missed).
Rodney, you just brought a tear to my eye with your presentation of your #2 enemy of games. I've been in this hobby for over 15 years now and have watched more hours of boardgame Vloggers than I probably care to admit. But this all too infrequent call for diversity was really wonderful. And I never post, ever. So thank you. And thank you to Dice Tower for providing the platform. Also. I love Canada.
Love DT and these top tens, but Rodney’s videos with his family are what got me into the hobby years ago!
Yeah! More Rodney please! Very considerate, very eloquent as always. Tom and Zee, good as always ;-).
While I have liked many DT videos, this is the first one that I have really wanted to join in on the conversation! Thank you!
On Zee’s #3, I agree that forcing games on someone isn’t good but I kept thinking, “what about someone who just doesn’t know about what games can be?” If they’ve never tried something, they don’t know they don’t like it yet! And so encouraging others, especially those we want for them to have joy and fulfillment, is a way of expressing love for them and sharing of yourself. Evangelism is only negative if it’s only for self fulfillment.
Thanks again for the great conversation!
man that video was great. Rodney fits so well... had a great time!! ty guys
I really enjoy the humor, wisdom and practicality shared by all three of you. I am a better person for hearing how much you care about people and the best ways to make gaming a fun experience for all who come near it. I didn’t realize how many life lessons can be practiced in this hobby. I feel more connected to people as a whole because of what you shared. There’s more that can draw us together than divide us if we simply choose to be tolerant and considerate. I’m excited to keep playing and treat people better. Thank you for creating and sharing the content that you do. I’m guilty of enjoying watching you guys talk about games almost as much as I enjoy playing them.
57:04 And this impatient person is *always* the one who ends up complaining an hour later when you explain a minor rule exception. "You should have told us that!" Grrrrrrrr....
I'm perhaps that impatient person but I'd rather play the game and do it poorly than listening to someone giving a 15 minute lecture.
But I will never complain about you checking the rules.
I think that how we learn games are not the same for every person.
@@trbry. I think that only applies if you are the only new player
Rodney Smith adds great dynamics to the Dice Tower. Loved the video, I like the top tens you have been doing recently.
Chatting.
The one thing that happens most in my board game group is that we decide to play board games, but we also love just to chat, and the boardgame never starts. I try not to push it too much (im usually the one with the games) but when i see an opening in the chatter i go like "OK! So, about this boardgame...."
Its more troubling when some people at the table are not that into boardgaming.
Wolforce but you have fun? You said you’re love to chat. If is like that is fine. You have to remember that this is a social thing. We have the same problem sometimes but when it happens usually is because we have a great conversation and everyone is involve and laughing and having a nice time that we don’t see the problem. Maybe we play less games that we wanted or planned but always will be a next time. And that’s good too. Have something for the next gathering! Remember the important part of gaming is having fun and have a good time!
@@rafycaraballo1196 yeah we have a great time =) both are good
Chatting is a good one. In my game group, we usually take the step from chatting to gaming with someone saying "We are not here to have fun!", and everyone knows what to do. Yes, we have a weird kind of humor, but we love both chatting and playing games, so it is ok.
I really liked Rodney as part of your trio. This was a good conversation that made me evaluate how I act not just for games, but life in general. Most thought-provoking top 10 yet. “Oh no, have I been THAT guy?!”
Amazing! Top notch video guys. You guys brought these points up in a way I feel I could I learn from and not feel torn down. Loved the positivity. Loved the respect for people having varying opinions and tastes. Especially right at the end, all 3 of you. I nearly shed a tear or two on how uplifting and inspiring the view of board gaming is that you presented.
Having majored in psychology and gone through some rough patches myself in being a tad "alpha" I have watched the behavior in myself and others for a while trying to figure out what's behind it. I'm sure there are other reasons, but here are three things I've observed:
1) Sometimes people want others to be like them (play the games they play) because they want to connect with that person, but don't know how (because of different personalities or whatever) and so not knowing what to do, they try to pull that person into their familiar territory so they have a known foundation to work from.
2) Another scenario I have seen for "alpha" (aka controlling) behavior is simply insecurity, which often the person isn't consciously aware of. They have the need to constantly "prove" they're better than you, have collected more or rarer games than you, etc because in reality they don't feel good enough and so they try to compensate with a "bravado."
3) Sometimes people act unpleasantly simply because they have not had good examples. They act that way cause that's how their family did growing up and they didn't realize yet that it doesn't set well with people. Even caring about whether or not another person around us is bothered is something we can pick up from examples around us.
Realizing these things can often be behind a lot of abrasive behavior helps me to most of the time more patient with these situations.
I've watched all the Top10 multiple times. This is, BY FAR, the best one ever.
I have really enjoyed this collaboration, Rodney was a great guest, there were some really deep thoughts here and there.
More Rodney on Dice Tower. He makes everyone better. Great episode. Greetings from Sweden / FredeStorm
Zee was pulling a Sam there, bottom 5 "something" top 5 "something else" :)
I thought the same thing! I was surprised that Tom didn't say anything.
This channel is always so much fun to watch. It’s really great because for us gamers we gain wisdom and insight into what we might be doing whether it be good or bad. And you do it in a way that is hilarious!!!
Great job Rodney! It’s hard to hang with those golden gods, but you did a great job! 😄👍
I’ve only recently started to appreciate him. He’s really awesome! I’ve met Tom Vassal for a pic and now Rahdo, and passed an opportunity to meet Rodney because I didn’t know about him. Now he’s on my list :-)
I'm a new gamer this was one of the best top tens I have watched thanks guys keep up the good work
Welcome to the hobby. It’s a great community.
Half of these reminded me of what I am annoyed at about gaming (schedules, constant texters, etc.), the other half made me think of issues I may have that I could work on. Rodney's #9 hit me like a ton of bricks. This list is a good reality check.
THIS is truly a must see video for gamers of all levels. Excellent!!
This type of top 10 is the most important one yet because it helps keep us all in check. Don’t be an enemy of gaming!
But also. taking these "rules" too seriously would also make you an enemy of gaming.
Such a good synergy between you three. I had a lot of laughs while watching this one. Thanks! :)
I really liked your top 10s! I've been a gamer for 20 years now and could relate to all of your enemy statements! I might have put mine in different order but you did a fantastic job. I was also very entertained :) My top comments were: Rodney - #2; Zee - #6, Tom - #3. Great job chaps!
Oh god, the scheduling item really hit home... Beside boardgameing we also love to play D&D and so many campaigns are just dieing after 3 or less sessions...
Though yesterday we managed to start a new one and maybe we can keep this one alive :)
This is by far the best DT video I've seen. Great topic with candid, considered, engaging, and entertaining discussion. Many of the points raised have me thinking about some of my own gaming behaviours and how they could be improved. A great synergistic mix of personalities and styles - well done!
Rodney Smith is A+. I would love more collaborations between you all. I know locations make that unlikely. Love your content!
What an excellent episode. there is so much psychology contained and insights about human behavior. I really enjoy all episodes with Rodney and The Dice tower.
"Messy Eaters" - YES! Omaha's biggest gaming scene is the Spielbound Board Game cafe. And I hate it when someone orders a pizza or fried mozarella sticks and is handling my cards with greasy hands!
Which is why I eat pizza with knife and fork when playing games.
Saw a great tip: if you're going to eat popcorn, chips, etc. use chopsticks.
@@Macaroth1 Jusst don't game with John Stewart then.
That was the best Dice Tower show for helping players think what they are doing in and out of games 10/10 well it's helped me . Thank you Dice Tower .
Great show. I hope you manage to bring Rodney back some time.
I was so shocked to see Rodney there. I have learned so many games by watching his channel. What a fantastic fit. His insights are great. I know I'm a little late commenting on this as I am just trying to catch up but this was honestly very pleasant to see. Hope to see a lot more of him in the future that's for sure. What a great choice.
This was a fantastically perfect video / topic! Very well done :)
This video was really great. Had a good mix of complex topics and silly fun laughs. Rodney and the boys have great chemistry and work well off each other, hopefully they can do more things together in the years to come.
Wow, Rodney added great comments, and while I miss Sam, I think he was the perfect addition (never a replacement) to bring his perspective to this list. And thanks for making this list again, I remember watching the old one.
This is the best list I have ever seen on this channel and I had so much fun watching this lol From dead people getting their kickstarter 2 years later to ironically being finicky this is gold, this group should get together more often
Thank you very much for this video. It was definitely insightful. I am sure most of us here recognize most of the points raised. And sadly i have also acted like some of these enemies. But i do believe that some of the points raised, like the BORG gamer or the SERIOUS gamer, are because of people are being very enthousiatic, but are also inexperienced. I think that as soon as you get a better feeling of what you like, explained games more often and generally have more gaming experiences. The urge to be like that kind of fades. That is at least what happened to me.
What it boils down to is that gaming is a social activity. And being social also needs to be learned. It makes me glad to see that with these videos the human element of gaming is not forgotten or disregarded.
It is so cool to see Rodney with a personality. He provides a super valuable service based off of being as neutral and carefully spoken as possible, I suspect a lot of people enjoyed this video so much just because they've watched him for years and never heard an opinion come out of his mouth
I have been watching the dice tower videos since the start and this is one of the best. Rodney Smith is such a good inclusion and had some great thoughts. Most of the non silly opinions were very deep and relevant. Most of them were opposite sides of the coin showing we need to find the middle ground. It all comes down to thinking about others and less about ourselves. I thought talking about diversity was great also. This issue should be irrelevant because of supply and demand but it's not.
Finally finished watching. This was brilliant, 100 minutes of entertainment, truth and humour. I haven’t enjoyed anything as much in ages.