something I LOVE about susd is how they never forget that these games are objects, that as little ol' humans we form a relationship/understanding of them as we pick them up and move around the pieces and see the shape of the thing, and how that is an indivisible part of the experience of the game and theme itself.

@07jackg

Жыл бұрын

The videos that come out of this channel have helped mix this idea back into the way I experience the world ❤️

This isn't Shut Up And Sit Down. This is Chill Out And Calm Down, and I would like more.

Ava, i have had this game sitting on my shelf unplayed. I was originally so excited to get it, but just simply couldn't figure out what i was supposed to be doing thematically and mechanically -- it didnt make sense to me until I heard this explanation from you. You know that *click* feeling you get when you understand something... it clicked. Thank you and well done. You have a gift for this.

As someone who lives nearby to the point of having driven down those roads…I massively appreciate this video. I appreciate the light shone on a truly beautiful and criminally underrated scenic part of the country.

@minibigs5259

Жыл бұрын

The irony being, that the sun never shines on Tod!! 😜

@krisblackburn8733

Жыл бұрын

@@minibigs5259 it’s amazing what people can do with post production these days!

Oh that was nice. A short, to-the-point review with the usual lovely SU&SD videography. The game looks fun too. All that's missing is a skit of confused Matt and Tom disguised as villagers.

@ticotube2501

Жыл бұрын

They were there all right, we just couldn't see them because someone decided to build the old wall in front of them.

@dave0754

Жыл бұрын

@@ticotube2501 and thanks to your wallproof vision, now we know!

@RedBairnMedia

Жыл бұрын

Perhaps they've just mastered their wooden block meeple costumes.

Ava videos are relaxing board game ASMR while Tom videos are chaotic neutral energy at its most unhinged, it’s crazy that it’s all the same channel 😂

@joshfla2001

Жыл бұрын

I kinda love it though. Just when you get used to the chaos, you get a lovely review with chill vibes.

@thecamosoupbone1273

Жыл бұрын

Just wanted to say it as well. I really loved the chill vibe. Nice 1 Ava

@TheSludgeMan

Жыл бұрын

Sounds cheesy but this is why diversity is great. Different perspectives, backgrounds, experiences etc. keep things fresh. M, Q and T all have roughly the same style and then Ava offers something completely different.

@adriansolis5362

Жыл бұрын

And yet it feels cohesive

@bodybagbilly

Жыл бұрын

Reminds me a bit of the old SUSD, back when Quinns had more unhinged videos to Paul's more thoughtful (but still entertaining, with his own style of humor) reviews.

Is it shameful that I want to buy this game, not for the strategy, not for the town-building, not for actually playing it... but to own Donkey Meeples... I need Donkey Meeples...

Fun music trivia: the bg music in this is "Von fremden Ländern unt Menschern", a miniature from a set of children's pieces by Robert Schumann. The title translates to "of foreign lands and peoples", which perfectly suits the cosy, introductory, geographical vibe of the review and the game - a lot to fit into just under 7 minutes, genius work Ava!!

About time we got our first Ava review of the year!! Not to be one of those fans harping on about the old days, but it really feels like Ava is carrying on Paul's legacy of calming, thoughtful reviews, but with her own unique, almost therapeutic style. Love that we have 4 really distinct editorial voices on the team, we're in a golden age for SUSD imo

@number-one-dilf-fan

Жыл бұрын

Agreed, though imo the golden age has past. Nothing compares in my eyes to when Quinns and Paul were just awkward college students filming low quality reviews that are absolute gold. I understand that it got too popular and that now that would be looked down upon but I still feel grief sometimes at the idea we'll never have another television skit about krakens again in an SUSD review.

@faizali360

Жыл бұрын

Paul's legacy is more one of unfettered comedy in a "relatively" calm way, but yes, he was very thoughtful, certainly a gentleman, and altogether an interesting character in this television program.

@DrMcFly28

Жыл бұрын

@@faizali360 I agree, Paul has a calming voice and gentle personality, but it was the subtle undercurrent of unhinged insanity he always expertly wove into his contributions that made his approach so memorable.

@TorIverWilhelmsen

Жыл бұрын

@@number-one-dilf-fan Yes, the Caverna review is a timeless classic.

@hudeduge9240

Жыл бұрын

@@TorIverWilhelmsen Much of their early stuff is so timeless; and yet so poignant of a specific time and place. A headiness that we all kind of remember as if it was our own memory.

I sometimes like to speculate on who of the SUSD crew produces my favourite reviews. But in all honesty, everyone's style is so unique that they all top the chart depending on when I'm watching them. I'm so glad Ava is doing reviews now. Compared to Tom's chaos, Quinn's silliness and Matt's cooking hacks, I appreciate the quaint calmness of Ava a lot. From reading bird cards at the end of another's negative review, to the strange beauty of naturally grown villages. These are fantastic

@aerouge4492

Жыл бұрын

I absolutely agree. I do miss Pauls dry analytical wordplay humor though. I still feel a lot of his energy resonate with Quinn and Matt but yeah this channel has a great cast of characters to review boardgamas.

I really like that Ava's drive to have more videos about this indoor hobby integrate outdoors footage hasn't died down since lockdown ended. It adds a really refreshing visual component to a hobby that is normally only enjoyed and talked about inside rooms. Even when it's just an aesthetic choice (in this video it's both aesthetic and thematic), I appreciate it! Must be more work, too!

I backed Hamlet for pretty much all the reasons you mention. Having grown up in a tiny village in west Norfolk, it's nice to see the sleepy life represented in cardboard. Although the tiny little resource pieces can absolutely do one.

I absolutely love how thoughtful this review is. There's a measured, contemplative vibe that I greatly enjoy. I'd love to see more insightful videos that explore the "how" and "why" of game design decisions.

Love the way the video weaves together the experience of play with the fiction the game is designed to create and the way it ties that in with Ava's personal experience. Really great approach to thinking about board games! More like this!

Oh my gosh, amazing. this needs to be required watching for anyone on a geography course. It perfectly describes what human geography is all about as a discipline!

I just played this game a few weeks ago for the first time, and enjoyed it immensely. So cool to see it reviewed on SUSD!

My life is so urban-America-centric that I'm not sure I would have immediately understood the intention behind wobbly paths and shared resources. Thanks for the perspective and for this lovely video. The landscapes of your town are really beautiful.

I enjoy all the creators on SUSD, but Ava's videos are so reflective, relaxing and magical. I hope we see tons more in the future.

@johanneswerner1140

Жыл бұрын

Yes. Thanks to her review we got "Living Forest", which we have been playing a lot over the last six months or so. This one also looks like fun! The kids are getting too good at Carcassonne (I'm no longer winning all the time), so we might want to give them more of a challenge 😜

I swear, Ava's dulcet narration could make a cage match feel like a relaxing day at the beach. Always the most reflective reviews.

Loved the review! Classic story-telling Shut-up and sit down review that leaves you truly thinking of how villages and towns naturally become part of our landcape and history. Loved the photography and overall style - I wish I had the time to play Hamlet! (to play any game for that matter)!

We love this game. Out of all my recent (ish) kickstarters, this turned out to be a favourite.

I think Ava has found her video niche. This was the perfect length, the perfect tone and the perfect amount of whimsy. Really played to her strengths in all the best ways possible. Keep it up Ava!!

@broudwauy

Жыл бұрын

Yup, coming back to this video and I think this was Ava's best review yet! Hamlet's probably not for me, but I loved hearing her talk about it

I felt so relaxed, it was like Ava was stroking my hair as she gave me the teach with some camomile tea. Also I am totally sold on this, digs into my Settlers itch

Nice to see you back, Ava! I backed this on ks and still didn’t get it to the table; I looked at the tiles and thought they were so quirky, so weird (maybe more because of their busy visuals, not just the shapes). Such unique take on their meaning will definitely help connecting better with the game - thanks for this video essay!

Completely agree with the sentiment that a video review from Ava is like a wonderful, gingerly stroll through a meadow to provide a relaxing break from the boisterous anarchy that the other reviewers provide. Don't get me wrong, everyone on this channel has their own vibe, pacing, and texture(?) for their own reviews, but the fact that knowing who is reviewing gives me great anticipation for what awaits me. Great content as always from a great channel.

Wow! This was so pleasant and soothing. Calmed me down and made me smile. More Ava please!

Ava's passion for board games shines through in her productions, making them a joy to watch. Her love for the hobby is evident in every video, creating an wonderful viewing experience. Ava's videos are just a delight. ❤

Great observations Ava! As an American viewer I absolutely understand the feeling of seeing the grid shape of city layout being a very very American thing, but it's also an American thing that is spawned from building communities super-fast and building in our flatter regions. Here in Wisconsin where we have a lot of the glacial formed terrain you see layouts much more familiar to what you showed us in your fantastic walks in you community. I just wanted to share that to let you know that I really appreciated everything that went into this vid!

@Poiuytrew.Q

Жыл бұрын

LOL when I heard glaciers, I thought Oh, us too! I didn’t realize there were glaciers in Europe too, but um yeah that makes a lot of sense :) actually some of the landscape looks similar to other places in California, but the towns and train look cute and idyllic!

Great video, it exactly emphasises what I love the most about Hamlet - that organic feel of growing the village using that wired shaped tiles, more building here more fun for me ☺️ always imagining that small villages squeezing into the valleys between mountains and forests

Bravo! Such a refreshing take and way to review. I skipped this one on crowd funding. If I had been able to watch this first, I would have been ALL IN.

@user-rm9qi9lz4u

Жыл бұрын

I went with the deluxe version and have no regrets. The metal coins and unique resource tiles really elevate the experience. Everyone I've taught this game loves it!

I can’t always say this but, Ava had me on the edge of my seat for every world of this … review? I think this was a review. I just really enjoyed what she had to say. And b role footage was great. This video is not what I typically expect from SU/SD but I think the sincerity of this really came through. Don’t know if it can duplicated, but certainly enjoyed it.

This is lovely, thank you Ava. As someone who grew up in South Yorkshire and Derbyshire and more teaches history, this really spoke to me

While watching this I was struck by two questions: 1. Is the mid-review turnaround going to be that it is secretly published by Splotter and is actually a sequel to Roads and Boats? 2. Why is a board game review making me tear up? What a wonderful video, Ava.

Wow. I I've only been board gaming for about a decade, but in that time I think this is by far the best review ever. The review was it own work of art that faithfully reflected the beauty of the game on its multiple levels in a warm almost recursive way. I don't know if they give awards for best reviews, but you've got my vote! 8 )

I've seen a lot of reviews panning this game, usually for being too fiddly, so it's nice to see the alternate point of view celebrating what it does uniquely. Thanks Ava!

This. This is what Ava brings to SU&SD, and to game reviewing. It nearly transcends the format, while being a squarely useful representative (a bit like being part of a community), and I'm here for it.

That was the fastest SU&SD-review-start-to-"I want this game NOW!" transition I've ever experienced (under a minute), and while I give full props to Ava's framing, at least some of it was the use of Schumann's "Kinderszenen".

I now want both to play Hamlet and live in a hamlet. Great review, thanks!

Ava's reviews have such a different tone to a lot of this channel, and it always feels like she's matched with just the right games. Ones that are carried by vibes as much as mechanics.

This review was art.

Such a beautiful narrative. The story, the tone...and brevity. Thank you Ava.. God bless u for taking me on a walk with you

Some people post video essays. Ava posts video poetry. Lovely video.

Ok Ok Ok, this review slapped! the upwards trajectory is REAL, looking forward to future Ava reviews :)

I backed this on kickstarter, still haven't gotten it to the table yet but I'm hoping it plays like one of my favorite games of all time: Keyflower. Love this review style, Ava, really good work!

Sees countryside - Yes? hears pleasant music - Yes!? It's an Ava review! YES!!

Wish I could like this three times! Once for Ava, a second time for the interesting looking game, and a third time for the fact that the gentle reflections on weird little towns made me cry.

That's the most wholesome board game review I have ever heard ❤

@onebigadvocado6376

Жыл бұрын

Seconded ❤

Music choice in the opening is on point. I can't quite pinpoint what it is but I recognize it. Sounds like a Mendelssohn Song without Words.

As undeniably hilarious as SUSD is, I love these relaxed, more emotional, videos. Hell, I adore the confused "we don't know how to review this" videos.

Ah learning the land is such a precious part of a new home ❤

Sometimes a game doesn't need a frenzied existential diatribe on what it means to be a meeple. Beautifully presented and concise, much like the game itself. Thanks Ava!

Great review Ava, I heartily agree with the rest of the comments section about the incredible chill and relaxing vibe you bring to your vids. One piece of constructive criticism though - I personally would have appreciated a little more discussion about the actual game mechanics. Theres a lot of poetry here about the game's personal connection to you, and thats lovely, but it would be nice to also have some slightly more pragmatic talk about the game systems and how they work. One of the things I really like about SUSD is that y'all normally bring a super analytical eye to your reviews, bursting hype bubbles with mid-review turnarounds and being brutally honest about how a game shapes up and who it may or may not be for. Theres about 3 minutes of review here surrounded by a 4 minute love letter to english civil infrastructure, and I personally would have liked another couple of minutes discussing replayability, target audience, price point, etc. That said, art is subjective and not every video needs to be for everyone. As mentioned earlier, I still definitely appreciate the different style you bring to the table, I'm just not sure its entirely what I'm looking for (which is fine). I hope you're having a lovely day

Another Ava production! Always fun, clever and easy-going.

Definitely nice to have more Euros with shared building and stuff

Bloody hell Ava, what an incredibly thoughtful and well put together video, bravo!

What a different video from what Quins, Matt & Tom make. A nice story, without all the crazyness and (over) excitement. A nice change of pace. Nice work, Ava ! And your voice is indeed very comforting to hear. Keep this up !

I do love Ava. She gives such personal and sincerely views and as a fella from the Yorkshire countryside I understood this on a primal level.

Eva, this is wonderful, by far my favourite thing you've done on SUSD. Personal, lyrical and beautiful. And it makes me want to play Hamlet as well!

“Old Decisions and Past Mistakes” Is the name of my Tom Petty cover band.

This is one of my favourite SUSD videos, bravo Ava! This kind of reflection on the personal meaning of games, rather than the worlds they can send you to, is rarely articulated so well.

Yay an Ava review. This feels like a perfect boardgame fit for her and her style of gentle but thoughtful reviews. Excellent video.

Now THIS is how you cover/review a bloody board game.

Ava this review was beautifully articulated! If I'm truthful, the colorful vocabulary and elaborate sentence structure sometimes make it hard for me to process my own meaning in a timely fashion. I often rewind and listen for understanding, and I always thoroughly enjoy and appreciate your views. The punchiness of this one though really sang to my ears. Add to that fact that Hamlet was on my radar near release -- but then I never saw anyone buy/play it -- and you've got my favorite review to date!

*’Turbo-Milk’* is one of those phrases that has me conceptualising a whole game, just to have an interactive world with that thing as the driving force 🤪

Quinns: standard review Ava: David Attenborough documentary Tom and Matt: Tim and Eric sketch

This was sooooooooo wonderful and relaxing! Absolutey lovely, Ava!

This was an excellent review! Very insightful, very entertaining. But... Was anyone else disappointed that this didn't shoehorn in a non sequitur ending of Matt wearing the Frosthaven Box?

While tom makes my favorite reviews these videos feel like wearing a soft war sweater when it's cold outside

Shut Up & Sit Down vids are very very well written, presented and produced. That's why I Subscribed.

Ava's back! Yaaaay!

I think this has to be my favourite Ava review!! These thoughts are something I've thought about a lot and are hugely important to my sense of place and home. Lovely to see it in a board game!

One of y’all’s best videos for sure. Very singularly Ava in the best possible way!

Board game review as a form of poetry. Not what I expected, but what a delightful surprise! Thank you Ava

I like the goofy tone most SU&SD videos take, but I love that you all have the range to do these more serious, contemplative videos, as well.

I was so invested in the narration about people and where they live. Kudos

This reminds me so much of Pauls approach in early SUSD. Well done, genuine, and succinct. Good job Ava!

The most unique and beautiful board game review I've ever watched, and I've watched a lot, including SU&SD. Thank you Ava.

I LOVE Ava adding their voice to SUSD's channel. This is a really different tone from Tom, Matt or Quinns- and I think it's really useful to have these- quieter? slower? less-bombastic?- I'm not sure what the right descriptive is, but I do like it.

Very nice video! The only thing I would have liked is one wider shot in which we can see more of the full game and its table presence.

@th1ngo

Жыл бұрын

One of the lovely things of spots in 'wrinkly' landscapes, is just seeing a little bit at a time.

I am not sure exactly what this video is, but I absolutely loved it! Please continue to create more!

This was my favorite Ava "review" yet. She's really growing into it with every video and I hope she gets the chance to put out more videos!

Ava, the most bucolic of board game reviewers

I saw the footage in the opening few seconds and I immediately thought "PLEASE BE AN AVA VIDEO!" I was not disappointed.

Is it my imagination or Ava's reviews are always the most chill and relaxing vids?

@AngoraWinch

Жыл бұрын

Her voice is very soothing and she speaks in a wonderfully slow and thoughtful way, it feels safe and calming.

Great review, Ava, I'd say your best yet! Also lovely to see some beautiful videography of the north

Hooray for the return of Ava and her video style! Love her.

Fascinating, informative and entertaining. So well done. Thank you Ava.

What a glorious piece! Lovely musing on what makes landscapes interesting (& I live just over the Yorkshire border so this resonates hugely). Sounds like the kind of game I’ve wanted for years without being quite able to express what I was looking for in similar themes.

What an amazingly unique review!!! This sold me so much more on the game than just talking about mechanics.

I am nigh speechless. Fabulous work, Ava. So much more than just a useful review. Delightful.

What a wonderful video. Really enjoyed this meditative small format!

Beautifully done!

Well done, more of this please.

I'm not sure if this game will work with our group, but what an absolute JOY to listen to!

I really like the format or the feel of this video. Thanks! And what an interesting game!

Can Ava make audiobooks? I’d listen to that voice read a shampoo bottle.

Very nice, thanks for this contemplative, relaxing boardgame-y video! I would like to see more of those.

Such a well crafted video, makes me escape a little from the chaotic reality, thanks I really needed it.

A review which circumvents uniformity as much as its inspiration.

Quick and delightful. Fantastic work !!