Gaming on the Cheap – Wargaming Recon #307

In this episode Jonathan is joined by co-host Peter Bryant of Solarian Games. The pair discuss how someone can game on the cheap. Normally this can be an expensive hobby, but there are many ways that you can make it much cheaper. This will not be an exhaustive list, but hopefully it can give you some good ideas on where to start.

The first place to look is your local library. This is a free resource and many libraries have board games, video games and RPG books that you can use in the building or check out. Many will also have, or can get, Osprey books that you can use to research the history behind the game you will play. You might find that some have maker spaces and have #D printers or the tools that you can use to make models an/or terrain. They can even offer classes to teach you how to use these materials. You might find that some libraries even have the equipment needed to blog or podcast about your gaming.

There are also some online resources that you can use to get free or cheap gaming items.

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Iselion Hybrid – Wargaming Recon #306


Game designers Peter Bryant of Solarian Games and Peter Saloom of Pear Tree Studio join Jonathan to discuss designing an adventure for roleplaying games (RPGs).  This is done by examining The Iselion Hybrid sci-fi adventure using the Savage Worlds system.  The adventure was created by Peter Saloom and Jonathan was one of the editors.

You can buy The Iselion Hybrid (AFFILIATE LINK) on DriveThruRPG.  It is a Copper Best Seller.
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Huzzah 2024 – Wargaming Recon #305


In this episode, I, Jonathan, share my live recording from Huzzah! 2024 in South Portland, Maine, post-pandemic. I’m joined by Joerg Bender of Things from the Basement.  The convention was a huge success with increased attendance, thanks to vendors like WeeWolf Miniatures, Bloody Scotsmen Games, and Trilaterum, who showcased top-notch products. Other vendors such as MSD Games, Day of Battle Games, Silver Eagle Games, and newcomers like Legendary Wares and Mountain Rogues and Farm also added to the event’s vibrancy. Joerg expresses gratitude to all vendors and sponsors, including Warlord Games and Steve Jackson Games, for their contributions, along with HMGS for donating tickets for Historicon, making the event memorable for all.
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Behind the Scenes – Wargaming Recon #304


Jonathan and Peter engage in a vibrant conversation where Jonathan, usually the podcast host, steps back to let Peter Bryant take the lead. Peter reminisces about their first meeting at Total Con and delves into Jonathan’s background, uncovering Jonathan’s passion for wargames and the adversity Jonathan faced in Jonathan’s youth. Jonathan opens up about Jonathan’s journey into board games, particularly wargaming, attributing Jonathan’s initial interest to the sense of isolation Jonathan felt as an only child. The dialogue brims with anecdotes and reflections on their shared experiences, underscoring the importance of seizing opportunities and embracing risks. Peter candidly discusses the challenges he encountered in affording his own army in games like 40k, sparking a heartfelt exchange between the two friends.
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Inclusive Gaming with Boston Gaymers – Wargaming Recon #303

Today on Wargaming Recon, we are joined by Andrea Morton, who represents Boston Gaymers, an organization founded by Matt in 2017 with a mission to provide inclusive gaming spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. Boston Gaymers, boasting nearly 3,000 members on Discord, focuses on fostering relationships and inclusivity within the gaming world. They host a variety of events, from video game tournaments to board game nights, expanding their influence beyond Boston to encompass areas like Worcester and Providence. While their primary focus is on the LGBTQ+ community, Boston Gamers warmly welcomes allies who share their vision of combatting toxicity in gaming spaces. Through partnerships and events, the organization is committed to building a positive gaming community for all interested individuals. If you wish to join them, visit their website and subscribe to their monthly newsletter for updates on upcoming events and initiatives.

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