Problems with Being a Game Reviewer - with Tom Vasel

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Tom Vasel discusses some problems involved with being a board game reviewer, and offers solutions!
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Пікірлер: 302

  • @thedicetower
    @thedicetower6 ай бұрын

    Hello, lovely Dice Tower friends. I apologize for the odd intro/outro editing mistake. I suppose the upside is you can see and hear the behind the scenes MAGIC that goes on. Also, I made a boo boo. -- Mike

  • @arielzao150

    @arielzao150

    6 ай бұрын

    I believe you can cut that part out in KZread Studio itself

  • @Castle4-1Games

    @Castle4-1Games

    6 ай бұрын

    The real magic is you Mike! 😊 Honestly I thought it was done as planned since one of the topics was about being authentic

  • @wookiebarista

    @wookiebarista

    6 ай бұрын

    Mistake or not it actually fit the theme of the video itself. A look behind the curtain. Honestly I thought it an artful inclusion.

  • @JamesOrr1987

    @JamesOrr1987

    6 ай бұрын

    It actually kind of fit. Something different for a different kind of topic.

  • @cursivecurses

    @cursivecurses

    6 ай бұрын

    Add me to the people who thought it was intentional, going for a documentary vibe

  • @StevenStJohn-kj9eb
    @StevenStJohn-kj9eb6 ай бұрын

    For me, I'm drawn mostly to sincerity. I've never questioned the sincerity of anyone on the DT team, which is why it's one of my go-tos for reviews.

  • @jgregveneklasen2657

    @jgregveneklasen2657

    6 ай бұрын

    Absolutely agree 👍

  • @seansteel328

    @seansteel328

    6 ай бұрын

    The fact that they do the 4-person reviews and they often disagree is something I like. Often other channels everyone agrees which makes me suspicious that they are paid reviews or they have a strong bias for one type of game and never play with different people or have broad tastes. DT usually has someone that covers a particular type of game even if the others don't

  • @5ammy13

    @5ammy13

    6 ай бұрын

    A 100% man. Their tastes don't always align with me and in fact their tastes don't even match each other which is so refreshing. But for the most part, their suggestions have not fallen flat with our group 😃

  • @garylangford6755

    @garylangford6755

    6 ай бұрын

    Thankyou for giving negative reviews. Without them we can't trust your positive ones😊

  • @uplift-yourdailypickup6424

    @uplift-yourdailypickup6424

    6 ай бұрын

    Agreed

  • @seniscram7958
    @seniscram79586 ай бұрын

    Dude. You handle all topics with such class. It's no wonder that you are thought by many as the board game ambassador.

  • @Calmethar.

    @Calmethar.

    6 ай бұрын

    Well put 🙂

  • @ryankoepsell-roth3907
    @ryankoepsell-roth39076 ай бұрын

    There have actually been games that you or someone at the Dice Tower had reviewed and came away tepid on the whole game, not enjoying it at all, but that I’ve walked away from your review thinking “I want to play this game.” It wasn’t a game for that person, but they did a good job explaining to the point that they made it clear who the game is for. I think that’s so special in what you all do.

  • @cubist12
    @cubist126 ай бұрын

    Even though Dice Tower is a major board game reviewing channel, it shouldn't be people's only watch. Particularly to the point where you'd say something as bombastic as 'you ruined my career!'. If I'm really torn on a game, I'll usually watch several reviews and read many ratings on BGG. If there's an *actual* problem with a game, it'll usually be pointed out by multiple people, and you'll be able to tell who the 'phonies' are pretty easily. If they aren't buffing the game to get brownie points, then they probably didn't play the game correctly or pay much attention to it. Anyway, I think most people would say that even if they don't always agree with some of the content on The Dice Tower, they appreciate the effort and quality of the content.

  • @heavy_dice
    @heavy_dice6 ай бұрын

    This video to me, is what makes the the dice tower so great. It’s the authenticity and the ethics that you can tell flows through the team with sincerity. It’s always a pleasure to watch what they do collectively and there’s a reason it’s endured. Thanks Tom and the team! Heavy Dice judgement: Excellent! 😂

  • @eddieb8054
    @eddieb80546 ай бұрын

    I’ve loved how Zee used to give his five points at the end of the review. Where he gave his opinion on aspects of the game. Replayability thematic tie in. Those things. Cause even though he and I have different interests in games. I could still tell if I would like a game he reviewed, whether or not he liked it. Now having so many reviewers on the channel. I can really look at the games which show on multiple top 100’s. And hopefully DT has Chris Yi do that math/accounting thing he did with the top 100’s last year. It was fun.

  • @TheAmazingYeti

    @TheAmazingYeti

    6 ай бұрын

    Yes. I loved his T.A.R.G.E.T. system. In fact I loved it so much that I hijacked it for my own ratings. Thanks Zee!

  • @PassTheRuleBook
    @PassTheRuleBook6 ай бұрын

    You rock Tom! Thanks for all you’ve contributed and looking forward to discovering other game reviewers😊

  • @cadenlaptad3247
    @cadenlaptad32476 ай бұрын

    As someone who has been watching your reviews for well over a decade (and reading them for much longer than that), I wanted to chime in and say how thankful I am for you and the work you’ve done to expand access to the hobby. While my tastes have diverged dramatically from yours over the years, I appreciate your consistent perspectives and the energy you bring to each review. I can usually figure out whether I’d like a game because of how well I know your tastes, and that brings me joy. Much love, Dice Tower. Wishing you well!

  • @ShawnGerber
    @ShawnGerber6 ай бұрын

    Tom, I cannot say how much I appreciate your game reviewing efforts. I believe you are reviewing the broadest assortment of games and assigning accurate opinions to them. I agree with your assessments of games that I own. When our opinions differ, I still appreciate your honesty. Keep up the great work. -Shawn

  • @scottsnelling5610

    @scottsnelling5610

    6 ай бұрын

    I agree with this a ton. Tom & my taste in games don't line up perfectly. But because the "why I don't like it" is always explained, I can still use a negative review to see if it's a game I might be interested. Or, more often, if I see a review like that, I'll go check out some other reviews. And the opposite holds true as well. Not only are the "score metrics" reasonable (and not just always 7-10s out of 10), but there's good justification on each review so the viewer can form their own opinions as well.

  • @JamesOrr1987
    @JamesOrr19876 ай бұрын

    Great Video Tom. I've been watching for 13-14 years or so, and I've always been able to see the sincerity, passion, and down-to-earth nature and "realness" of Tom and the others. I think he's built a great team, and it's the main touchstone for me and many others when they come out with review for a game you're interested in. I love that they give honest opinions, but don't go out of their way to only review games they like or purposefully play a game they think they won't to trash it for clickbait views. And aren't exclusively a KS preview channel. I think they have been an enormous help informing the gaming consumer for years, and somehow manage to be entertaining while doing it! 100% class and the industry standard. Keep it up!

  • @KKHarris
    @KKHarris6 ай бұрын

    Thank you Tom, I really appreciate the direct connection about making the dream of one's passion into a reality can be a life long journey of experiences.

  • @darbyl3872
    @darbyl38726 ай бұрын

    I would imagine the toughest part is learning the correct rules. So many games leave at least one question unanswered, now I expect to do research online. I agree that most mistakes don't ruin the game, but some do, and often it's the publisher's / designer's / editor's fault. I just wanted to mention my biggest problem as a board game player. The fun outweighs that frustration, so I keep learning and playing new games.

  • @CosmicTavern

    @CosmicTavern

    6 ай бұрын

    I can't imagine having to learn so many games per week. It seems really tough.

  • @cursivecurses

    @cursivecurses

    6 ай бұрын

    Rules mistakes (and business deals) seemed to be the things that killed Tabletop (the Wil Wheaton show).

  • @scoop0122
    @scoop01226 ай бұрын

    Absolutely love Tom's honesty, warmth and integrity

  • @aloharay
    @aloharay6 ай бұрын

    I enjoy having you and your team as part of my quiver of reviewers. I have learned your style and personal preferences. I have learned that some of what is important to you may not be the same to me, and I can adjust my take away from your review accordingly. Thank you for your hard work and I hope you are able to keep doing what you love.

  • @dadsanddice
    @dadsanddice6 ай бұрын

    Love this video Tom! Thanks for taking the time to post this, it really hits home with us smaller content creators!

  • @hcagle624
    @hcagle6246 ай бұрын

    Tom.... this video makes me know for certain what I have always thought. I would absolutely love to hang out with you. Very genuine and knowledgeable. Your always the 1st review I look for on any game. Good or bad. Thanks for all that you do.

  • @jogumby
    @jogumby6 ай бұрын

    Excellent! I've been watching Tom and the other Dice Tower reviews for a long time now. I use them quite often to help me decide if I want to buy a game I'm interested in. It's not my only input because while I agree with Tom quite often I don't always, and that's ok. I enjoy watching and I do find a lot of aid from the videos. Keep it going!

  • @GuppyJ
    @GuppyJ6 ай бұрын

    Great, sincere video. Thank you for all you do together with the Dice Tower team...you were my first go to when I started the hobby and have just grown from strength to strength.

  • @patricksteele
    @patricksteele6 ай бұрын

    The camaraderie, integrity and passion of the whole team is wonderful to see. Thanks for an inciteful video.

  • @chasfredricks
    @chasfredricks6 ай бұрын

    The beginning and ending edits were brilliant! It really helped us viewers step behind the scenes a little bit.

  • @mteeum
    @mteeum6 ай бұрын

    You, your channel and crew are the ones that pulled me into the hobby. It's amazing and love your reviews.

  • @OdonataCreations
    @OdonataCreations6 ай бұрын

    Finding what makes your Soul Smile is True Happiness. 😁 Thank you for shining your happiness upon us Tom!!! You and your whole Dice Tower crew. We all Thank you!!!

  • @ross5330
    @ross53305 ай бұрын

    Tom, excellent video. Grateful for your reviews and you’re one of my favorites. You present as a genuine person. I love board games and am getting more involved with BGA and starting small groups with friends. I also related what you said to my new pursuit as a writer. I’ve questioned about why I do it, if I’m productive enough, and if I’ll make enough. But truly, I love to write and I want to share my insights with others who understand and appreciate my words. They’re not for every reader, as you wisely understand your reviews may not be for every viewer. I needed this guidance, thank you for your honesty.

  • @daywalkersyndicate4630
    @daywalkersyndicate46306 ай бұрын

    Really well said, Tom. I’m glad to hear that you (and the team) work so hard to be unbiased and honest for your audience even when it’s difficult. Such an ethic will only benefit the board game community and the entire industry in the long run.

  • @LordoftheBoard
    @LordoftheBoard6 ай бұрын

    Really appreciated this video Tom! Btw I’ll never forgot the time you recognized me and asked me if I was okay. Really appreciate you in this hobby.

  • @ravell-sama
    @ravell-sama6 ай бұрын

    It's amazing that you're doing for so long. I also review board games on a separate account and in my native language, but I've only been doing this for like 6 months. Which is why I appreciate this video so much. I always find exactly what I'm looking for in DT: a breakdown of a certain game but also an authentic love for board games.

  • @TheEarthlyOdyssey
    @TheEarthlyOdyssey6 ай бұрын

    What a heartfelt reflection video! I was thrilled to meet you and the gang at PAX the year before last. Your channel is one of my favorites, if not the favorite spot I go to. If I am looking at a game and you've reviewed it, I base my final decision on your review. It shows that you enjoy your work. What a job! Many times, I'll admit I just watch your playthroughs solely to be entertained. Watching people play board games is akin to watching sports for others. The back and forth social aspect is engaging. You've added so much to the community and I'm grateful to you and all of your hardworking team.

  • @grungekids11
    @grungekids116 ай бұрын

    Cheers Tom. Your original DT Reviews that I started listening to with the die, falling into the tower, and the Eric Summerer voice over intro (please bring this intro back, btw) helped to rekindle my passion for gaming and exposed me to many many new games (beyond Catan & the MB Gamemaster Series) that I never knew existed. Love that you're still reviewing games and shepherding the DT well. (and I can related with your urge to look at games and wonder -- what is that game like?). Hats off!

  • @zabelkid
    @zabelkid6 ай бұрын

    Thanks Tom for all you do, you’ve brought joy into my life by showing me games I love for the first time. Watching the top ten lists with Tom Mike and Zee, (Sam also) has given me hours upon hours of joy and laughter. If not for the dice tower, the board game industry wouldn’t be as strong as it is now. Take care.

  • @lucasswinerd104
    @lucasswinerd1046 ай бұрын

    This is so cool. A little peak inside the dice tower vision. Would love to see more videos of the crew talking about day-to-day stuff. A peak behind the curtain. Great content as always guys! Thanks so much

  • @dorkangel1076
    @dorkangel10766 ай бұрын

    I like the way you do a review. You give enough information to give me an idea how the game plays without going overboard and giving too much information. This way I can judge that even if you didn't like a game I might and even if you loved a game I might not. That's what I want from a reviewer.

  • @jamesbond1409
    @jamesbond14096 ай бұрын

    Appreciate your attitude and your reviews!! There's probably a bunch of us, who just watch your reviews to hear about the game and don't necessarily comment on them! Just wanted to comment and say- Keep up the good work!!!

  • @rb4551
    @rb45516 ай бұрын

    Great video. loved it. Im amazed how much you guys do and show little signs of fatigue doing it. I love boardgames but I need breaks from reading all the rules and so on so forth and I only go through a tiny fraction of what you guys do. AND you are having fun with it AND you work on not letting yourself fall victim to cliche so its extremely respectable. I do love your format the most for reviews and its why nomatter how many other creators I add to my subs, I tend to always come back here for more. But yah, wishing you many many more reviews. I also have to say, I was originally a bit turned off by the group reviews but now that I got used to them, I wouldnt go back to the previous model so kudos to you and your team (whoever came up with the idea) because it was a great innovation of your brand. In contrast, some other major content creators have been adding more and more "sub-creators" and I find myself watching less and less of their content

  • @BeAHeroGaming
    @BeAHeroGaming6 ай бұрын

    This video was perfectly timed! I keep wondering if I’m doing videos “right,” but I’ll just do them my way and if people like them, great! If not, I’ll still have fun playing games and making videos. Thanks so much! You’re a hero!

  • @tannershort
    @tannershort6 ай бұрын

    Cool video Tom! Thanks for sharing you're perspective, I love how well you balanced out the conversation. I can sense your passion!

  • @CarlosRodriguez-ez3ls
    @CarlosRodriguez-ez3ls6 ай бұрын

    Thank you Tom. You're a true ambassador for the hobby and I appreciate you and your team's hard work!

  • @somanygamessolittletimesmg7725
    @somanygamessolittletimesmg77256 ай бұрын

    Great video! The pressure is always there for sure and when it’s not your job it makes it extra difficult to carve out time to record, edit etc. But you’re right though, if it’s something you love you stick with it and it will stay worthy of the hours you put into it. I think many of us ‘grew up’ with the dice tower in our board game journey so thanks for all the effort you’ve put in over the years 😁👍🏻. Oh and btw, thanks for shouting out my channel in the thumbnail 🤣🤣. I’m now going to go play some Fractured Sky and then continue watching your top 100. Thanks for everything Tom (and everyone else at DT!).

  • @jsievers
    @jsievers6 ай бұрын

    Heart felt and sincere. I enjoyed this video. I do love watching your board game reviews. But, more videos of this "grown up talk" is great as well. Would love more of this.

  • @hanseathl
    @hanseathl6 ай бұрын

    The Dice Tower was and is a source of honest and credible reviews and inside and brought me so much joy since this channel dragged me into this great rabbit hole so many years ago. Thank you and all the best.

  • @COOPFORTWO
    @COOPFORTWO6 ай бұрын

    This was a surprisingly good and useful discussion. Very straightforward, to the point, focus on having a philosophy of what you are doing. Recommended watching for anyone in this space.

  • @TheHelium999
    @TheHelium9996 ай бұрын

    Thanks for your insights Tom. Really good to watch.

  • @daleprather3026
    @daleprather30266 ай бұрын

    I loved the intro/outro mistake. I thought it was intentional and seemed to add some authenticity to the video. Would love to see an entire "behind the scenes" video. And a bloopers video would be cool too. Y'all are great!

  • @sushi_mermaid7116
    @sushi_mermaid71164 ай бұрын

    Tom, I have a lot of respect for you and what you do each day. Seriously this video gave me a lot of perspective into your situation and all the stress that comes with being in the board game industry. Thanks for your integrity and hard work

  • @dustinburlet7249
    @dustinburlet72496 ай бұрын

    This is an absolutely awesome video from an absolutely stellar team. Tom is the GOAT. Profesional S tier. I see so many overlaps between this and other aspects of life. Great job! May your tribe continue to increase and increase!

  • @normanhutchinson3504
    @normanhutchinson35046 ай бұрын

    Can you imagine how boring the hobby would be if everyone all liked the exact same board games? No innovation, no variety - just an endless stream of the same game rethemed over and over again because that's all that's wanted. One of the things that brings me the most joy while watching board game channels or looking over the Facebook posts for both The Dice Tower and Boardgamegeek is the shear number of different games that I see! I may know what I like already, or at least think that I know, but that doesn't mean I'd ever stop looking at the opinions of others to see if they like something I don't know about; and I certainly wouldn't shame anyone or blame anyone for having different tastes than my own. Excellent video, Tom! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on what it's like to be in the position of a reviewer. I may not do that myself, I may not have a desire to, but I found the subject enjoyable to watch as someone that regularly comes to this channel for both entertainment and education.

  • @oleksandrhorskyi8442
    @oleksandrhorskyi84426 ай бұрын

    There are some reviewers that showed me what board games were and made me love them. DT Team and you personally, Tom, is one of (but also on the forefront) those reviewers. I now have a lot of friends liking board games as I do, because I showed them what this hobby is. And that happened because you showed me what this hobby is. It might be a minor thing in one's life but for this I'm forever grateful. There were dark times in my life, board games saved me, literally. Thank you, Tom. Thank you DT. I don't know why this sounds like you guys are retiring and I'm leaving a commment but well, there it is!

  • @Elizabethpacey
    @Elizabethpacey6 ай бұрын

    Thank you Tom. If you have reviewed a game I'm considering I make a point of watching your reviews cos they are balanced & I feel honest, & sincere. Thanks for sharing your joy of the hobby :-)

  • @clemenscochius6296
    @clemenscochius62966 ай бұрын

    That was a very insightful and informative video - thanks for doing it! 👋🏼

  • @adamgreen3217
    @adamgreen32176 ай бұрын

    I really appreciate an honest review, with depth and clarity. Keep up the good work indeed!

  • @browe
    @browe6 ай бұрын

    I remember the early BGG reviews from Tom (Duel of Ages.) It's been a long, colorful, circuitous journey! Thanks for sharing your clear, openhearted take. 💙

  • @DanEdelen
    @DanEdelen6 ай бұрын

    It’s amazing how much impact Scott Nicholson has had. I got back into gaming largely because of his Ticket to Ride review way back in 2004. It would be fascinating to ponder how things would be today if “Board Games with Scott” never happened.

  • @getyourgameon4935
    @getyourgameon49356 ай бұрын

    Thanks Tom for all you do with board games. Love your channel and I hope you continue to inspire others. Always. Keep it up.

  • @katiahowatson5729
    @katiahowatson57296 ай бұрын

    What a great video. I really enjoyed watching this! Couldn't agree more with you on all points!

  • @Fenixd84
    @Fenixd846 ай бұрын

    I love your reviews, they are great because no matter if I agree with you or not, by looking at them i know if the game will be a good match for me or not. And that’s why i come to the review in the first place. Wonderful job, thank you.

  • @_Waluigi_
    @_Waluigi_6 ай бұрын

    The best things about your reviews are the sincerity. Never change please ❤❤❤

  • @KabukiKid
    @KabukiKid6 ай бұрын

    I hand it to ya, Tom (and the gang)... I loves me some board games, but I could never be a reviewer, I don't think. For one, if I don't like a game, I can't see playing it enough to give it a review. lol Gaming is too much of my "fun time" to become work, I think. Maybe I'd feel differently if I was somehow offered some great job in the gaming world, but for now, it is just my hobby and I can do nothing but appreciate the people like you who have that ability and help guide us gamers to the gems out there. :-)

  • @rodgermoore7960

    @rodgermoore7960

    6 ай бұрын

    Well said! The upside is with so many choices now that one can find something they enjoy. I have found the more I play the more I am finding my taste and niche in games.

  • @chris1iy
    @chris1iy6 ай бұрын

    One of the things i've always liked most about Dictower reviews is that i can usually tell if i'll like the game from the details in the review ,whether or not the review itself is positive or negative. That takes a level of sincerity that a lot of channels don't have.

  • @monomundo
    @monomundo6 ай бұрын

    Thank you for addressing all those issues The Dice Tower and every Reviewer is confronted to. You and all the DT Team are the best. Cheers!

  • @tucson111
    @tucson1115 ай бұрын

    Hey tom. You are amazing. Your ideas came from your heart. They were honest. I love it when someone is doing it because they love it and that shows through completely with you keep up the great work. Thank you.

  • @DanaParedes
    @DanaParedes6 ай бұрын

    Appreciate the reviews and the brief overview of the game. Keep it up!

  • @mikaelhansson9613
    @mikaelhansson96136 ай бұрын

    First of all, thanks for your devotion and hard work during all these years. I've been following the Dice Tower since the early days of BGB, and I'm still here watching many of the live shows. I think you have a fantastic team with different taste in games. I know that I usually have more in common with you and Chris than for example Zee and Camilla. But sometimes they make me notice a game I would have missed otherwise (a long time ago, Zee got me interested in Targi). Of course I don't agree with all your reviews, but that's fine. We all have different opinions. You are doing a job I know I couldn't handle even though I love games. Keep up the good work!

  • @pauljohnson8847
    @pauljohnson88476 ай бұрын

    Tom, I think you short change your mission statement. I always get the feeling that you do this because not only do you have a passion for gaming itself but that you know how the magic of gaming can bring people together in a way few other things can. And it seems like you want to provide people with information that will allow them to make that magic happen in their own relationships with all kinds of people. Would the new Pitch Car setup surprise on the dining room table every Christmas morning have become a family tradition without the Dice Tower? No way. I would have never even considered that game on my own. I taught Long Shot the Dice Game to my adult daughter and her boyfriend over Christmas. They were lost after the first round, but thanks to your play through video, I was able to get them past the rough spots and we had one of the best game experiences ever. I love your crew for the combined passion, integrity, and commitment to fun. I don't always agree with the reviews, but that is also part of the fun. Keep rolling.

  • @BitewingGames
    @BitewingGames6 ай бұрын

    Great video and great feedback for reviewers. I find myself in that hole of despair sometimes as n content creation and appreciate the sage words or wisdom.

  • @toddngina
    @toddngina6 ай бұрын

    I'm relatively new to DT and it seems like your opinions are not bought. Really appreciate all of your transparency. You all are some of my fav peeps that I've never met haha.

  • @mename7670
    @mename76706 ай бұрын

    The reasons you give about why you do reviews is good for anything in life. If you don’t enjoy whatever job you have, whatever activity you do, whatever relationship you are in…. Stop and get out and re-evaluate. Tom is freakin awesome!!!

  • @user-hd5jk4sx1t
    @user-hd5jk4sx1t6 ай бұрын

    Good to see a more personal side of Tom. Hope to see more videos of his musings in the future. One thing that I felt like wasn't mentioned was the ethics of promoting consumerism and how to help people narrow down what they should actually buy from the many many many games that do get a positive review, but I guess that responsibility is mostly on the individual looking to buy games.

  • @denverbarker9899
    @denverbarker98996 ай бұрын

    Thanks Tom. I don't agree with everyone on everything and the same goes with some of your reviews. However, over the years I appreciate your insight in games. If I ever need more information on a game you are the first resource I check because I can depend on you to give your honest perspective.

  • @sthompson022
    @sthompson0226 ай бұрын

    Hi Tom, thanks for sharing. I'm a big fan and have been for over 13 years (when I started playing board games), and I remember Scott Nicholson's reviews! I was so bummed when he stopped doing reviews. It looks like he has a new channel called "Introspective with Scott Nicholson" which is about board game design. I loved listening to your 'behind the scenes' views of board game reviewing in this video. Have you ever considered doing a documentary on the Dice Tower? I would love to watch a show talking about the evolution of the Dice Tower, and see behind the scenes of you and your whole crew. Keep up the good work - you guys are fantastic.

  • @JamesOrr1987

    @JamesOrr1987

    6 ай бұрын

    There is actually a History of the Dice Tower series of videos, it's great.

  • @user-oq8ng3jp1l
    @user-oq8ng3jp1l5 ай бұрын

    Tom Vasel reviews got me into the hobby - just found them entertaining, tried a few games and I am appreciative. Have always found Tom and his crew humble and fair - they make it clear they celebrate that there is something out there to suit everyone’s tastes and that their reviews represent their own opinions.

  • @ColinMcElhatton
    @ColinMcElhatton6 ай бұрын

    I thoroughly enjoyed this video. As a board game enthusiast, I wholeheartedly resonate with the camaraderie and shared joy that comes from gaming with friends or perhaps teaching a new game to a willing audience. It's what board gaming should be all about, having fun. While I've admittedly made my fair share of rule blunders, I've been fortunate to game with a group of understanding friends who always guide me tactfully towards a corrected interpretation. This video actually reminded me why I do watch reviews on this channel. I watch the reviews on this channel because I genuinely believe they provide balanced and well-reasoned insights into various games I might have an interest in. I may not always agree with the conclusions but that is okay, different views help! Looking forward to more great reviews and opinions!

  • @mudandbleach
    @mudandbleach6 ай бұрын

    Great advice, Tom. I think a lot of what you said is valuable/applicable beyond board games too.

  • @jbarr4184
    @jbarr41846 ай бұрын

    Great video. I’m a reviewer and love it. I have found interviewer other people in the hobby to be another style I really enjoy. You have to enjoy it and be on the lookout for small gains. I don’t mind being smaller, because like you, I just do things I enjoy and maybe others will also. Going to share a link to this video now.🔥

  • @gillesduval9788
    @gillesduval97886 ай бұрын

    Great video. This could become a code of ethics for content development ifor board games. I was looking into relaunching my channel and your points made me think and confirm some of my ideas and explore new ones. Thank you.

  • @zachb6243
    @zachb62436 ай бұрын

    I admire Tom’s dedication to his career of being a capital R reviewer. He’s found a thing that’s important to him, and done the best he’d could at it, and he’s done a dang good job with it. I’m very thankful that the dice tower is often at the forefront of gaming, as I think it carries itself with integrity, honesty, and a value being honest with the hobby. Thank you Tom & co!

  • @Lordmordisquitox
    @Lordmordisquitox6 ай бұрын

    Tom, I have been following the DT podcast and your reviews for over a decade, I got into gaming in 2004 and you were my to go reviewer. Once I developed my taste in games I know where our tastes are shared and were these do not match for example I do like a good trading in the Mediterranean game. I like your format as it is short and sweet. This video is honest and that is what I look for in a review. The lookbacks are great and I really enjoy them. In terms of the industry, monetizing a hobby is something I am not willing to do so I enjoy my games and I started getting a huge fondness for the "Cult of the Old"

  • @flanakookn
    @flanakookn6 ай бұрын

    Tom, for what it's worth I very much value you and your teams content. Thank you for what you do.

  • @andrewclifton185
    @andrewclifton1856 ай бұрын

    Showing class and why you are still the Don of Boardgame reviews

  • @zero-il9on
    @zero-il9on6 ай бұрын

    I´ve never understand how you guys do it, learn games, play them and then make videos constantly, such a feat! You guys are all amazing and I admire you all for what you do. This is not an easy job, some people think it is, no way in hell it is. Dedication, commitment, lots of other things it takes to be able to do this for such a long time, keep it up! I disagree with you guys regarding games but that´s life, all good same as some others we reach common ground, I like games you guys like and don´t like games you guys like and like games you guys don´t like. So funny.

  • @dsarrazin
    @dsarrazin6 ай бұрын

    Interesting video. You always give me the impression of being a very honest person. Myself, I mostly watch review videos to help me make informed decisions when wanting to buy board games. I suspect that I'm not the only one who watches this kind of videos primarily for that purpose. It's not clear to me if you have that in mind when you create your review videos?

  • @sigurd1410
    @sigurd14106 ай бұрын

    That is very insightful. Thank you Tom!

  • @fenirob
    @fenirob6 ай бұрын

    Top notch. As always. Thank you for your passion.

  • @SirThecos
    @SirThecos6 ай бұрын

    That was a good video. Although my channel is very small, I agree with most of your thoughts here. ☺️ I especially agree with the idea to be 100% honest in your reviews, even if they're not just positive. That's very important.

  • @seanmolloy4636
    @seanmolloy46366 ай бұрын

    When I watch Board Game reviews I won't lie I watch a whole bunch of reviews. Just because Tom likes a game does not mean I will. Just because Tom does not like a game does not mean I wont like a game. I watch them to see game play experiences, what type of game it is, is it a heavy or light game, is it best with 1,2 or more players. I enjoy seeing and hearing multiple people/reviewers view on games and feel that is the best way to make the most educated decision on a game. Dice tower is one of the many that I watch and have extremely enjoyed this honest review. Great work!

  • @steveg9939
    @steveg99396 ай бұрын

    What a great video! Great insights for reviewers and for consumers of reviews

  • @HorseIRL
    @HorseIRL6 ай бұрын

    Thank you for the honest speech, sir. Something(s) might have pushed you to want to speak about this, but I think most people are happy with the dice tower content in terms of structure and quality. Publishers and fans of a any given game are still relatively a minority that tends to be vocal and quite loud in response to any "negative" content. That is why they tend to stand out. This is despite their projects being kickstarted by people who believed in it regardless of any reviews that could come later on. I love the dice tower and I think it was made by passionate reviewers and for the people. I'm on my way to be come 40 years old and I haven't particularly commented much dice tower on videos since I stumbled on the channel long long ago. But I felt the need to say this. My kids love Tom Vasel, Zee Garcia and Mike Di Lisio and it is always a joy to them to play against their haint represntations in the Vagrantsong song promos or visit Tom's shop in flamecraft. After all those years, the dice tower team is practically family at this point. Keep doing what you are doing. You cannot please everyone (in anything) and most people love the dice tower. My children do. Sincerest regards from my family here in Dubai.

  • @colcoction6072
    @colcoction60726 ай бұрын

    Great video, Tom. I'm not interested in being a board game reviewer myself but I still found this meaningful.

  • @Catchafire2000
    @Catchafire20006 ай бұрын

    This is a video that is appreciated. I appreciate negative reviews and limited reviews.

  • @oliverspike
    @oliverspike6 ай бұрын

    This video is by far a really honest one and people that can't bear comment on their games, they should not sell things... thank you again Tom ! I love your videos, it is fun and we need to keep in mind that it is a personal opinion to take as it come. sometime even when tom review a game that he didn't like I was curious and wanted to try anyway and loved it. in conclusion reviewing whatever it is is personal opinion as objective we want to be.

  • @zacharymartin1477
    @zacharymartin14776 ай бұрын

    I can only speak for myself...but I have noticed for me that my taste in games has evolved over time as well...I used to be up for almost anything...but now I see myself gravitating towards certain types/play times/etc...

  • @mitchalibi2794
    @mitchalibi27946 ай бұрын

    Well spoken, Sir! Keep up the Good Work!!!

  • @calvinsgotgame8365
    @calvinsgotgame83656 ай бұрын

    Thanks Tom for the video, I am a small time game reviewer channel and feel like I am making videos in a vacuum. I make these videos because I love board games and this is a way I get to talk about them. Thanks again for the video.

  • @nshaw1299
    @nshaw12996 ай бұрын

    You guys are really a great source of knowledge. And fun to watch. In my country there are many game reviewers which seemingly 'like everything'. The have many 'How to play' videos for anything on the shelf, and everything is embelished with 'This is great!'. And... it's not great. It's just available. I can only assume they have a relationship with the local importers. It skews game design in the country. It skews the public. It skews the age group (because they 'get away with those reviews more easily' because they show all games as children games). There's no one giving a real honest opinion on the games we do have.

  • @atheist_addict
    @atheist_addict6 ай бұрын

    Tom continues to be the king. I listened to the podcast in the very early days.

  • @marcobocari2999
    @marcobocari29996 ай бұрын

    I like the communication and the sincerety a lot, thank you Tom. The lecturing of smaller game-reviewers seems off to me though. Let people do it for the money, if that's what they are driven by. The more game-reviewers the better. Are there really any "bad reasons" to do a good game review? Saying that people should have specific reasons to do reviews rubs me the wrong way.. Cheers.

  • @PwndNewbie
    @PwndNewbie6 ай бұрын

    Negative reviews are part of the business, and reviewers that never give them out are suspect in my opinion.

  • @chuckm1961

    @chuckm1961

    6 ай бұрын

    To me, a completely bizarre way to evaluate a reviewer. Some reviewers don’t enjoy giving reviews to games they don’t like. Stop and think about it. They had a bad experience, and just want to move on. Why in God’s name would that make them less credible? I assume that reviewers are genuine, unless they give me clear evidence that they are not. You seem to start with the assumption that reviewers are not genuine, for some reason, but must prove themselves to you.

  • @EgeTunca
    @EgeTunca6 ай бұрын

    Love this. Thank you Tom.

  • @wicked8576
    @wicked85766 ай бұрын

    great thoughts about reviewing board games! if I had the time and energy to do it, I'd also do it.. I guess I'd love it if it was my job! but, on the other hand, there are quite a few really good reviewers out there, I'll leave it to them to do it, and just enjoy watching those reviews! :)

  • @davetalbert8387
    @davetalbert83876 ай бұрын

    Great video -- interesting and useful, delivered with grace and kindness.

  • @bibleboardgames5199
    @bibleboardgames51996 ай бұрын

    Thank you, Tom! Good points!

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