Best Bards Of The Board Podcasts (2025)

1
Buy Low Sell High!! Smartphone Inc. Board Game Review!! | EP 42 1:16:50

8d ago1:16:50

1:16:50

In this video, we dive into Smartphone Inc., the sleek economic strategy game about dominating the global tech market! We break down how it plays, what makes it unique, and whether it's a good fit for players who are newer to modern board gaming. We’ll cover: ✅ How the game works ✅ What we liked and didn’t like ✅ Complexity level & learning curve ✅…

1
BONUS: The Opening Crack - Breckenridge Brewery: IPA Review 56:48

9d ago56:48

56:48

On this Opening Crack we review FOUR IPAs from Breckenridge Brewery! We had a blast tasting and discussing these brews. Stand by for the usual shenanigans in long form as well taste, rate and have a good time. Prost!By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
S3 Ep 18: Combat Strategies for the Bad Guys 22:55

16d ago22:55

22:55

While it might seem that most monsters, cultist and general enemies just like to line up and get their butt kicked. The reality is they are strategizing too. Plotting an ambush, laying traps and maybe even saving their own skin. Tip of the day...play them that way.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
"Might Be the Most Perfect Game We've Covered??" One Night Ultimate Werewolf Review | Ep. 41 1:04:52

23d ago1:04:52

1:04:52

Welcome to the table as we dive into one of the most fast-paced, chaotic, and fun social deduction games out there. Watch as alliances form, accusations fly, and secrets are revealed—all in just one night. Will the village survive, or will the werewolves go undetected? You can find One Night Ultimate Werewolf for yourself at: https://amzn.to/42RSSu…

1
Welcome to OUR Table!! Top 10 Games The Bards Have Played Together!! 1:24:02

1M ago1:24:02

1:24:02

Welcome to the Table, specifically...our table!! Every 10th episode we bring a top 10 list, and today is no different. In today's episode we're discussing our top 10 games that we have actually played together. This episode was a blast to record, and might be Robbie's favorite so far, as we walked down memory lane discussing games we've played. We …

1
S3 Ep 17: The Opening Crack - Abbey Ale 21:06

1M ago21:06

21:06

This week's beer comes to you from Martin City Brewing in Kansas City, it's the Belgian Style Abbey Ale. Buckle up becasue unsurprisingly the guys go off the rails a bit in this episode.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
Living Life One Tile at a Time!! Azul Board Game Review | EP 39 1:05:54

2M ago1:05:54

1:05:54

In this episode of Bards of the Board, we break down one of the most beautifully crafted board games out there – Azul! Join us as we explore the mechanics, strategy, and artistry behind this fan-favorite tile-laying game. Whether you're a seasoned Azul player or new to the game, our discussion will give you valuable insights into how to master your…

1
S3 Ep 16: Species Review - Human 16:36

2M ago16:36

16:36

Another species review incoming! This time it's all about YOU, the humans.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
S3 Ep 15: The Opening Crack: Tezcatlipoca 17:33

2M ago17:33

17:33

This weeks beer, Tezcatlipoca, comes from Diametric Brewing Company in Lee's Summit, Missouri!By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
Take a Card, Pass It Down, 7 Wonders All Around!! 7 Wonders Board Game Review Episode 38 59:30

2M ago59:30

59:30

In this episode, we dive into the strategic world of 7 Wonders, the classic card drafting board game where players build their own civilizations over three ages. Join us as we discuss the mechanics, strategies, and what makes this game a fan favorite. From the intense decisions on which cards to draft to the thrill of completing your Wonder, we cov…

1
S3 Ep 14: Class Review - Artificer 37:32

3M ago37:32

37:32

The last and possibly one of the more complex classes coming at you. This is the last in our original series reviewing the classes available in 2014 DnD 5e. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and Youtube -- @BardsandBarrels. Enjoy!By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
Going to Go with...Enchanted | Dixit Board Game Review Ep. 37 1:01:37

3M ago1:01:37

1:01:37

In this video, we dive into the enchanting world of Dixit, the popular storytelling board game! 🎨✨ Join us as we explore: Gameplay Mechanics: Learn how the game works, from setting up to scoring, and how the unique blend of storytelling and creativity sets Dixit apart. Strategy Tips: Discover effective strategies to outwit your opponents, whether y…

1
S3 Ep 13: The Opening Crack: Black Walnut Wheat Ale 18:17

3M ago18:17

18:17

A unique beer from makes it's way to the table from Piney River Brewing Company, Black Walnut Wheat Ale. This was a fun episode, we hope you enjoy!By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
Flamingos, Meerkats, and Penguins OH MY!! New York Zoo Board Game Review | Ep. 36 1:02:28

3M ago1:02:28

1:02:28

Welcome to our latest video where we dive into the exciting world of New York Zoo! In this video, we explore everything this captivating board game has to offer, from its unique mechanics to the animal-filled gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned board gamer or new to the hobby, we’ll break down how to play, offer strategies, and share our thoughts o…

1
S3 Ep 12: Species Review - Elf 12:20

4M ago12:20

12:20

They guys debut of our first species review! Enter the classic elf. Come see why this should be the next species of your character!By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
What Should You Bring to Game Night?? w/ Alex Radcliffe from Board Game Co! | EP 35 57:57

4M ago57:57

57:57

You can find and support Alex over at: https://www.youtube.com/ @BoardGameCo Looking to host the perfect game night with newer or less experienced board gamers? In this video, we dive into the best games to introduce to those just starting out or still getting comfortable in the hobby. Whether you're looking for easy-to-learn mechanics, engaging th…

1
S3 Ep 11: The Opening Crack - Pickle Sour 16:45

4M ago16:45

16:45

Here we go again. The guys take a sip of a pickle sour....find out how this beer, coming from Loveland Aleworks in Loveland, Colorado, tickled the tastebuds.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
S3 Ep 10: New Year, New Mailbag! 35:37

4M ago35:37

35:37

We hit the ol' DnD mailbag once again! Come see what is on the docket today.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
BONUS: A Very Merry Bards and Barrels Christmas 43:54

5M ago43:54

43:54

Merry Christmas to you and yours from the Bards and Barrels crew! This one has a bit everything in it....but that generally means that hilarity will ensue. Enjoy!By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
Building Your Character and Great Game!! Call to Adventure Board Game Review | EP 34 1:01:17

5M ago1:01:17

1:01:17

In a world full of quests, challenges, and chaos there is an individual who rises to the occasion. Fortunately for us, that person is you the player!! In today's game we will find our origin story, embrace our motivation, and seek the destiny we deserve! This rune-tossing game brings a unique twist to dice chucking, and the Bards have some thoughts…

1
S3 Ep 9: The Opening Crack: Lightshine Helles Lager 16:19

6M ago16:19

16:19

Wibby Brewing in Longmont, Colorado provides an award winning Helles Lager this week. This crips, refreshing lager known as the Lightshine Helles is truly something to behold! Check it out.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
Colorful Quilts for a Crunchy Game!! Calico Board Game Review | EP 33 1:03:50

6M ago1:03:50

1:03:50

Cats and Quilts..and iconic combo. In today's game we are going to discuss one of the more mechanically simple games we've played that also might be one of the thinkiest and crunchiest games we've discussed at the same time. In this Tile Laying Masterpiece you'll be assembling a quilt and attracting cats to cozy up on your beautifully masterpiece. …

1
The Bird IS the Word!! Wingspan Board Game Review | EP 32 1:12:36

6M ago1:12:36

1:12:36

You’ve heard us mention it for over a year now…and today it finally hits the table. One of our highest rated games according to the Board Game world, today we tackle Wingspan. In Wingspan you are bird enthusiasts—researchers, bird watchers, ornithologists, and collectors—seeking to discover and attract the best birds to your network of wildlife pre…

1
S3 Ep 8: The Opening Crack: Sea Salt and Lime - Supra Deluxe Premium Lager 23:30

6M ago23:30

23:30

A Japanese style lager the Sea Salt and Lime Supra Deluxe makes its way to the table for the guys to taste. Surprisingly this comes from Modist Brewing in Minneapolis, Minnesota...who'd have thought you'd need to go to Minnesota to find Japanese beer!By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
Why Doesn't This End Up at the Table More?? Five Tribes Board Game Review | EP 31 1:04:26

7M ago1:04:26

1:04:26

In this Mancala world you'll be moving 5 different tribes through the board to gain as many resources as possible! Five Tribes is a classic amongst Board Gamers and for those interested in a Hobby Gaming space, Robbie might argue this is a must play! With one of the more unique mechanics you'll find amongst this desert adventure.. what do the Bards…

1
S3 Ep 7: Food, Water and Encumbrance...oh my. 14:50

7M ago14:50

14:50

Ok, does anyone follow the encumbrance rules? Not sure we have paid too much attention to it but we may have some cool ideas on how to incorporate them situationally.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
You'll NEVER Believe Jason's Number 1!! | Top 10 2 Player Board Games 1:26:00

7M ago1:26:00

1:26:00

Welcome to the Table, and we’re back with another fantastic episode!! Every 10th episode we bring a top 10 list, and today is no different. In today's episode we're discussing our top 10 games to bring out when it's just us and one other. Whether it's a date board game night, or hanging out with a coworker, sometimes you need that game that hits ju…

1
S3 Ep 6: The Opening Crack: Carpe Brewem Old Fashioned Imperial Stout 26:37

7M ago26:37

26:37

We head into high ABV territory this week the hefty Carpe Brewem Old Fashioned Imperial Stout from Empyrean Brewing in Lincoln, Nebraska.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
The Catchiest Game Yet!! Pandemic Board Game Review! | EP 29 59:41

8M ago59:41

59:41

In 2020 the world found itself amidst a global pandemic, but the creators of this board game have had folks experiencing this for years. Today's game talks about Pandemic, the board game where you and your team will work together to stop the spread of disease worldwide. Through unique roles, a random deck to oversee the spread of the viruses, and m…

1
S3 Ep 5 - Alignment 16:23

8M ago16:23

16:23

Lawful Good, Chaotic Neutral, Neutral Neutral and everything in between. Today we talk alignments and why you should care about them.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
S3 Ep 4: The Opening Crack - The Griffin 18:03

8M ago18:03

18:03

This week the team cracks open a cold can of The Griffin a Blood Orange Hefeweizen from Grim Brothers Brewing in Loveland, Colorado!By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
Millionaires of the Forest?? Raccoon Tycoon Board Game Review | EP 28 1:09:30

8M ago1:09:30

1:09:30

Buy a Railroad, Produce Commodities, or Invest in a Town?? In today's game you'll have the potential to start your empire of the woodlands with some incredible gameplay as an introduction into a lighter step of modern hobby gaming. Whether you want to push your luck and wait for the best time to cash in on your resources, or take the sure bet on yo…

1
S3 Ep 3 - Class Review: Wizard 40:32

8M ago40:32

40:32

Spells spells spells and more spells. If that is something that piques your interest then you need to tune into this episode of Bards and Barrels to learn more about the wizard!By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
S3 Ep 2: The Opening Crack: Chonk Sundae Sour - Pineapple Whip 21:47

8M ago21:47

21:47

We head back to Drekker Brewing in Fargo, North Dakota for another Sundae Sour. This time Pineapple whip makes it's way to the table and boy is it good.By Ross Struss, Brett Miller, Phil Boon and Damen Jensen-Heitmann

1
Good for Kids AND Adults?? | Kingdomino Board Game Review EP 27 1:06:26

9M ago1:06:26

1:06:26

Tile Laying Games are a Personal favorite of Robbie’s, and throw in some Polyomino pieces and Jason’s in as well. Today’s game is an award winning Tile Placement game where you’ll be building your very own Kingdom under a small restriction to add a little bit of pressure. Do the Bards agree with its award winning status? Do we see another Double Do…

1
S3 Ep. 1 - DnD and AI 23:40

9M ago23:40

23:40

Season 3 kicks off with they guys discussing of AI has both created opportunity and controversy within the world of Dungeons and Dragons,By Ross Struss, Brett Miller and Phil Boon

1
How to Introduce New Players to Board Games with James Hudson of Druid City Games!! | EP 26 1:03:36

9M ago1:03:36

1:03:36

**Sorry for Robbie's Audio Issues. He tried a new camera for the Youtube version and accidentally selected it for his audio as well!! Will be fixed for next episode!!** Today we welcome our next incredible guest to the channel, James Hudson of Druid City Games! He's the owner and one of the game designers as well as a family friend of Jason's! In t…

1
BONUS: The Opening Crack - Dungeon at First Street Brewing 54:10

9M ago54:10

54:10

Our friends at First Street Brewing are doing something really cool in the world of D&D. Five tables, thirty players and everyone playing different pieces of a story that culminates by coming together at the end. This is going to be epic! We also sample the Assumption Saison, a beautiful beer, and talk about the mission of First Street Brewing. Nat…

1
Questing Amongst the Royalty!! Lords of Waterdeep Board Game Review! | EP 25 1:27:52

10M ago1:27:52

1:27:52

DND is a game/play experience that for many can serve as the gateway into the hobby gaming world. Today's game takes the themes and characters from DND bringing them to the Lords of Waterdeep Board Game! Here you'll help influence a town as you recruit talent and warriors to help you quest, purchase property, and assert your dominion over the other…

1
Tales and Tavern Brawls 25:39

10M ago25:39

25:39

Send us a text Ever seen a vampire mistaken for an albino elf in a tavern brawl? This episode is packed with hilarity as Bram Stroker spins the tale of Dracula's wild day in Gildar Guild. From getting hit from a catapult manned by drunken Dwarves to intentionally being targeted by drunken Dwarves, Dracula's escapades are non-stop chaos until the no…

1
Destroyer of Cities and Friendships?? King of Tokyo Board Game Review | EP 24 1:12:04

10M ago1:12:04

1:12:04

Yahtzee is a tried and true classic in the board game world. The joy of seeing those dice roll into the combo you're looking for is extremely satisfying. In today's game we take Yahtzee one step further with Kaiju monsters who look to prove who is the mightiest in their conquest of Tokyo. King of Tokyo by Iello Games is one of the best gateway game…

1
Brooms, Bards and Bandits 29:53

10M ago29:53

29:53

Send us a text What happens when Dracula battles enchanted cleaning supplies and accidentally sets himself ablaze? Find out as our vampiric hero and his trusty sidekick, Mimi, embark on an uproarious quest to find the legendary sword Calibur. The journey kicks off with an intense showdown against a broom golem conjured from Igor's magical cleaning …

1
A Song of Combos and Fire Flamecraft Board Game Review | EP 23 1:19:52

11M ago1:19:52

1:19:52

There is just something about Dragons. Whether it's in Game of Thrones, Wyrmspan, or even music dragons seem to be universally loved and appreciated. In today's game we head to a dragon town to visit shops and embrace combos as you gather reputation in this wonderful game. Flamecraft is a game Jason's been playing since it Kickstarted, and today we…

1
Heroes and Hoagies 26:14

11M ago26:14

26:14

Send us a text This episode takes you on a whimsical journey through their hilarious reminiscences, from the antics of a magical mirror named Kevion to the absurdity of a blind man driving a bookmobile, and even the legendary sword, Calibur. Listen as our lovable characters engage in witty banter and quirky revelations, all while exploring the fant…

1
Our First 2 Player Only Game?? Patchwork Board Game Review | EP 22 1:13:50

11M ago1:13:50

1:13:50

Two Player Games are a staple of the modern board gaming world. Whether they are games that play well at a two-player count or games specifically designed for two players, these types of games have a very specific place on your shelf. In today's game we discuss polyomino games with our first two-player game as well as our first dive into polyomino …

1
Books and Banshees 29:30

11M ago29:30

29:30

Send us a text Can Dracula outrun a horde of banshee librarians?...yes you read that right! Join us on a thrilling odyssey as we accompany Dracula on his quest for a legendary weapon that takes him within the mystical Eternal Library. Picture floating crystals casting a ghostly blue light over towering bookshelves, as our favorite vampire navigates…

1
Just a Walk in the Park! Dog Park Board Game Review | EP 21 1:15:09

11M ago1:15:09

1:15:09

Do you love dogs?? Do you love cute art in a board game? If you answered yes to one or both of those questions than do we have a great game for you!! In today's video we are talking about Dog Park a game where you recruit dogs into your kennel to take them on luxurious walks through the park! Dog Park is a mid-weight, competitive set-collection and…

1
Dracula's Date with a Dragon 28:30

12M ago28:30

28:30

Send us a text Imagine Dracula, transformed into a fur-midable feline, making a hair-raising escape from a dragon's lair hotter than a wizard's fireball! It's a whisker away from disaster as our vampire lord turned cat attempts to escape the dragons lair.........however the dragon has other ideas in mind with Dracula. Hope dracula has some of his n…

1
Summer's Here!! Top 10 Party Games for our Bards!! | EP 20 1:52:20

12M ago1:52:20

1:52:20

Welcome to the Table, and we’re back with another fantastic episode!! Yall loved our Top 10 games to start a collection with, well today we’re taking things a little lighter in episode 20! Today’s episode contains Jason and Robbie’s Top 10 Party Games!! Now the definition of Party Game can feel a little loose, and depending on your group certain ga…

1
S2 Ep.18 - The End...of Season 2 15:55

12M ago15:55

15:55

We have arrived at the finish line! Thank you so much for every one that helped contribute to and excellent second season of Bards and Barrels. Take a listen to hear us reflect a bit on this season and give a sneak preview of whats going to happen of the summer and into the fall. Most importantly a big thank you to YOU, our listeners, we couldn't d…

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