Special Ops: 1-Year Anniversary Honorable Mentions and Memories

Operation: Game Night

The one-year anniversary episode of Operation Game Night serves up a delightful mix of reflection, gaming enthusiasm, and genuine appreciation as Travis, Clay, and Jared look back on their podcasting journey. The trio dives into the games that almost made their coveted top 10 lists but fell just short—revealing as much about their gaming habits as their preferences.
Clay opens with a candid reflection about Root, once his favorite game that slipped from his top 10 not because it lost quality, but because life changed. "If it was that good, I'd be finding time to play it," he admits, highlighting how our gaming collections evolve with our circumstances. His near-miss Arcs scratches the same political intrigue itch while being more approachable for newcomers. Meanwhile, Jared's honorable mentions include Wingspan, Ahoy, and Gizmos—the latter earning special praise for its tactile marble dispenser that digital play can't replicate.
Perhaps most telling is Travis's emphasis on small box games that dominated his year. With a young child and frequent travel, games like Scout, Sea Salt and Paper, Cat in the Box, and Splendor became his go-to choices. This practical approach to gaming resonates with anyone who's had to adapt their hobby to life's changing demands.
Beyond the games themselves, the hosts share their favorite memories from their first year of podcasting. Having game designer Paul Solomon as a guest topped multiple lists, while Clay particularly enjoyed their bracket-style episodes. All three expressed appreciation for how guests expanded their gaming horizons by introducing them to unfamiliar titles and mechanics.
The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks to those who made their podcast journey possible—from supportive community members like Amanda from EmptyNestBoardMama to their patient spouses who accommodate the weekly recording schedule. It's a reminder that while games may come and go from our tables, the connections they help us build are what truly matter.
Listen in to discover which games nearly made the cut, and perhaps find your next favorite just outside the spotlight of their official top 10s.

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Chapters

1. Welcome and Top 10 Reflections (00:00:00)

2. Honorable Mention Games Begin (00:01:39)

3. Small Box Games and Expansions (00:07:40)

4. More Gaming Honorable Mentions (00:13:48)

5. Favorite OGN Memories (00:19:28)

6. Shoutouts and Appreciation (00:23:54)