Mindful Games Lab

Planning your Gen Con 2026 schedule? Looking for the best new board games to check out? In this episode of the Mindful Games Lab Podcast, Clay shares his Top 5 most anticipated games of Gen Con 2026, plus a few honorable mentions and two exciting solo games that deserve a spot on your radar. Discover why games like Drillers, Wingspan Pocket, dnup, Three Sisters: Harvest Edition, and Diables made the list, and learn what makes each one stand out before you hit the exhibit hall. Whether you're attending Gen Con in Indianapolis or simply looking for the hottest new tabletop games releasing in 2026, this episode will help you build your wish list and discover your next favorite game. In this episode: Clay's Top 5 most anticipated Gen Con 2026 games with honorable mentions you won't want to miss Two promising solo board games Where to find each game on the Gen Con exhibit hall floor If you enjoy board games, tabletop gaming, Gen Con, game design, and discovering great new releases, be sure to subscribe to the Mindful Games Lab Podcast for more conversations about modern board games and the hobby we love.

In this episode of the Mindful Games Lab podcast, Clay visits with sisters Alice and Jessica from Fambam Games to explore how board games create connection, spark laughter, and bring people together across generations. The conversation dives into the origins of hit party games like Not So Neighborly, the role of chaos and emotion in tabletop game design, and how family game nights shaped Fambam Games' mission to create easy to learn games that anyone can enjoy. Alice and Jessica also share behind the scenes stories about designing their upcoming card game Too Much On Your Plate a fast-paced buffet-inspired game about strategy, food, and embracing the chaos of life. Together, they discuss: Designing family-friendly card games How games foster friendship and social connection Creating tabletop games for casual and experienced players The balance between strategy and accessibility Why emotions matter in game design Collaborating creatively as sisters The mindful side of modern board gaming If you love board games, tabletop game design, family game nights, party games, indie publishers, or conversations about the positive impact of play, this episode is for you. Learn more about Fambam Games: Fambam Games Official Website Follow Mindful Games Lab for more conversations about games, mindfulness, creativity, and human connection through play.

In this episode of the Mindful Games Lab Podcast, we sit down with Meeple Lady, board game blog writer, podcast host, and passionate member of the tabletop gaming community to explore how games can create meaningful connection in our lives. We talk about her journey from playing classic games growing up to discovering modern board games through Ticket to Ride, and how that led her down the rabbit hole of BoardGameGeek. Along the way, she shares how her love for strategy heavy euro games developed and how her gaming habits have evolved in a post-pandemic world where time and attention are more limited. Meeple Lady also gives a behind-the-scenes look at running the The Five By podcast, where each episode features five board game reviews in just five minutes each. We discuss what that format teaches about clear communication, storytelling, and highlighting what really matters in a game. Beyond mechanics and reviews, this conversation dives into the deeper impact of tabletop gaming. How board games can build confidence, foster social connection, and bring people together across different backgrounds. From conventions to late-night party games, Meeple Lady shares the moments that make this hobby so special. If you're a fan of board games, tabletop gaming, or you're curious about how games can positively impact your life, this episode is for you. In this episode, you'll learn: How Meeple Lady got into modern board gaming and why connection is at the heart of great game experiences. Connect with Meeple Lady: Website: https://www.boardgamemeeplelady.com/ Podcast: The Five By Subscribe to Mindful Games Lab Podcast for more conversations about board games, mindfulness, and the positive impact of play.

What does it feel like to defend a fortress when the odds are impossible? In this episode, we explore Castlenuovo 1539, a tense two-player historical block wargame about the 1539 siege between Spanish defenders and Ottoman forces. I share what it's like to play, why the hidden information and asymmetrical design create so much tension, and some basic strategy tips for both sides—from using the Spanish Camisado attacks effectively to managing Ottoman assaults and reinforcements. We also look at what makes this game fun, why it stands out among historical wargames, and reflect on a few mindful prompts about pressure, uncertainty, and timing. If you enjoy board games, historical wargames, strategy games, or thoughtful conversations about play, this episode is for you. Listen in and consider: How do you respond when things feel hopeless?

What if your delivery route wasn't roads—but ever-shifting winds in the sky? In this episode, we take a deep dive into Mistwind, a unique pickup-and-deliver board game from First Fish Games. You'll learn what it feels like to play, how the dynamic movement system creates a satisfying puzzle, and a few simple strategy tips that can instantly improve your game. We also explore what makes Mistwind stand out in the genre—and how a mindful approach can completely change the way you experience it at the table. If you're a fan of thoughtful strategy games, beautiful themes, or just want to get more out of your game nights, this episode is for you. Plus: Grab your free 52 Mindful Board Game Prompts at mindfulgameslab.com and start transforming your next game night.

Roll the Dice: A Mindful Experiment for Your Next Game Night What if one simple question could transform your game night? In this episode of Mindful Games Lab, we explore 52 Mindful Board Game Prompts for Game Night, a simple way to bring more awareness, connection, and memorable moments to the table. Board games already create laughter, tension, clever plays, and shared stories—but sometimes those moments pass too quickly. You'll hear why these prompts were created, how they can deepen your appreciation for board game design, and how they can spark great conversations with your gaming group. We'll also try a fun dice-rolling method to randomly choose prompts during game night. Download the free 52 Mindful Board Game Prompts PDF at MindfulGamesLab.com and try one at your next game night. Because board games are already full of meaningful moments—sometimes all we need is a small invitation to notice them.

Can a board game really transform an ordinary evening into something meaningful? In this episode, we explore how to create a mindful game night — and why intentional play can deepen connection, spark wonder, and strengthen real-life relationships. You'll learn: How board games can turn a routine evening into an incredible shared experience. About certain games with a powerful table presence — and how that physical energy changes the room. We'll talk about the difference between mindless entertainment and intentional play, the sensory magic of dice and cards, and how moments of awe during a game can expand your awareness in everyday life. Whether you're a casual player, a hobby gamer, or someone looking for more meaningful time with friends and family, this episode will help you rethink what game night can be. Because board games aren't just about winning. They're about being present. https://www.mindfulgameslab.com/  

Flip 7 is a fast, simple push-your-luck card game—but knowing when to stop is harder than it looks. In this episode of the Mindful Games Lab Podcast, we dive into Flip 7, the push-your-luck card game that makes everyone at the table lean in. You'll learn when it's smart to take the points, when it's worth risking everything, and how to get better at Flip 7 without turning it into a math problem. We talk about why Flip 7 works so well with almost any group, how it creates instant tension and unforgettable moments. You'll also hear about other great push-your-luck games to try if Flip 7 hits that sweet spot for you. If you love card games, party games, and games that make you laugh, groan, and celebrate all in the same round, this episode is for you. Topics include: Flip 7 strategy, push-your-luck games, card games, risk and reward, mindful board gaming.    

Why I No Longer Rush Through Board Games How slowing down helps you enjoy games, people, and moments more Do you ever finish a board game night feeling like you played a lot of games—but didn't really experience them? In this episode of Mindful Games Lab, Clay shares why he stopped rushing through board games and what changed when he slowed down. From game backlogs and constant rule learning to treating turns like tasks, this episode explores how speed can shrink wonder—and how presence can bring it back. You'll hear reflections on playing fewer games with deeper intention, building connection at the table, and rediscovering immersion. Clay also recommends games that naturally reward slowing down. If you've ever felt burned out or disconnected from game night, this episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and enjoy games more fully. Sign up for mindful reflections and game prompts at mindfulgameslab.com.

What does Mistborn: The Deckbuilding Game teach us about power, restraint, and focus? In this episode of Mindful Games Lab, Clay dives into Mistborn: The Deckbuilding Game from Brotherwise Games, exploring beginner-friendly strategy, when it's actually worth flaring your metals, which characters feel strongest at the table, and the ongoing tension between dealing damage and racing up the mission tracks. Along the way, he shares gentle, mindful prompts that invite you to notice not just how you play, but how you decide, react, and commit. Whether you're new to Mistborn, curious about deckbuilding strategy, or interested in more intentional, reflective play, this episode offers insights you can bring to your next game night—and beyond. https://www.mindfulgameslab.com