In Episode 307 we reflect on the year of 2026 in board gaming at this mid point to talk about some of our favorite (and most disappointing) board games and experiences so far. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 1:30 Which game do you want to take on a 2nd date after your first play in 2026? (Speakeasy, Off With Their Heads, Ada's Dream) 4:33 Which games hit the table more than any other this year? (Azul, Darwin's Journey, Obsession, Lost Ruins of Arnak, Tapestry, Formaggio, Captain Flip, Sea Salt & Paper, The White Castle Duel, Boast or Nothing, Dune: War for Arrakis, Manhattan Project: Energy Empire, Unicorn Fever) 07:47 What game's production and art has impressed you the most over the last 6 months? (Echoes of Time, Speakeasy, Dune: War for Arrakis) 13:28 What was your biggest surprise and biggest disappointment? (Steam Power, Reforest, The Old King's Crown, Earthborne Rangers, Aquaria, Tag Team, Amalfi: Renaissance) 22:36 What has been your most reliable introductory board game? (Flip 7, Ticket to Ride: San Francisco, Azul, Subjective, Lords of Vegas, Manhattan Project: Energy Empire ) 28:50 Which 10+ years old title did you first discovery this year? (Thurn and Taxis, Parade, Medici: The Card Game, Biblios) 33:50 What's currently at the top of your wishlist? (Dawn of Madness, Everdell: Emerland, Entropy) 38:22 What's a creator, podcast, or channel that made your year better? (Punchboard Cathedral, Winner's Bias, Board Game Hangover) 45:00 What's your favorite episode you've created this year? If you enjoy the show, please consider supporting us at https://www.patreon.com/boardgamehottakes Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/boardgamehottakes.bsky.social Join our Board Game Arena Community: https://boardgamearena.com/group?id=11417205 Join our Discord server at: https://discord.gg/vMtAYQWURd
