This weekend I presented Gotlandia at SmashCon in Huddinge south of Stockholm. SmashCon is a cosy boardgame event over two days each year in November. Free entrance and organised by a group of enthusiastic volunteers in a cafe in the local community centre, the event feels welcoming and relaxed. With around 50 tables in three rooms, a well presented boardgame library for pick up and play, and a section with indie publishers like myself, it’s easy to get into a game.
I hosted two games of Gotlandia, both groups of players eagerly getting into the game and making smart moves. I enjoyed sitting in as a player in the second game which we played to completion. Players gave great feedback. Both confirmation that there are players out there (like me) who don’t mind a game with a little steeper learning curve and longer play time. Plus feedback on the visual design and ideas for how to improve the design.
It’s fun to see people show interest in the game because they have lived on or visited Gotland. People are genuinely happy when I confirm that all of King Valdemar, Vitalien Brothers, and the Black Plague appear in the game. A friend dropped in for a few hours helping me to pitch Gotlandia and Churches of Gotland which was also cool.
Thanks to organisers and players for a great event! I will be back next year.
Mediterranean Metro
I decided on the name Mediterranean Metro for my family card game inspired by the ordeals of the Thessaloniki Metro. I wrapped up the rules and uploaded a print-and-play edition that you can find here. It is now ready for external playtesting and a colourful visual design.