What I like best is that you're not shy with your opinions on the industry and games... even when they're controversial. I'm no content creation expert (or could even begin in that space), but if you can build on that somehow... and also keep it genuine (i.e. don't ramp up the drama just for the sake of it), then I think that would help you grow. Speaking of controversial opinions, I generally agree with your thoughts on forming opinions with few or even one gameplay, but I can also offer some counterpoint to that based on personal experience. My wife doesn't like 99% of games after the first play, and that includes virtually every game that's now one of her favorites. She just needs time for new themes and mechanics to marinate. I'm the opposite - I'm definitely susceptible to cult-of-the-new (although not what's popular - just whatever new game I've purchased after doing the research and convincing myself I'll love it). So, we have a "3 plays" rule in our house where we try (as best we can) not to judge a game too negatively or positively until after the 3rd play. Then we rank it and agree to play it however often (whole other story on how we do that) after that 3rd play. Works well for us. But that just comes from knowing ourselves and how we approach new things. I think it's totally legit to judge a game on how approachable it is after the first play, and I think designers and publishers absolutely need to weight this heavily in their development approach.
Hey tteshera! I feel like there's a range with games (as with so many things) - you can certainly just loathe a game enough on the first play that you never want to see it again. Pax Pamir did that for me, for sure! Then again Obsession was a game I hated on the first play, but I liked so much of what it did that I forced myself to try it again and now it's one of my favorites (though player count DEFINITELY factors into that game!) So yeah - I don't disagree with you. I just disagree that you can't have ANY opinion after a first play and HAVE to play a game several times - even if you still hate it - before you can truly "judge" it.
Reviews would be great, because I believe we have similar tastes & I value your opinion. I also like the idea of a rotating topic. Love the channel. Can't wait to play a game or hang out with you again sometime.
I think reviews are one of the ways to go. I would love to see how you felt about Dwellings of Eldervale, as many of your critiques seem to exist in Dwellings as well. I am enjoying the content so far. Keep it up and just keep being yourself
@npckse8508 the funny thing is, I don't remember a thing about Dwellings except the components. I downloaded the rulebook yesterday as I started to write an actual review of AE, and I was like, "I don't remember any of this...!"
@@TabletopToolbox Crazy, but perhaps for the best? Would have likely been odd if you loved Dwellings and just thought AE was okay. I will find out tomorrow after we play. I think it is definitely one of those games where you can see someone across the table with just amazing abilities and everything just fell into place for them while you struggle. As far as the combat, that is a common refrain from those with issues with Dwellings. Seems like the range concept in this one helps a little
@@TabletopToolbox Mark. You and I talked for a while about Dinogenics at the Retreat. Saints hat. As to the game it went well. There is so much of Dwellings in AE that it was crazy. Yet by adding targeting, diplomacy cards and the modules, it felt like a more streamlined experience. The modules were far easier to obtain than the elemental cards in Dwellings. Combat was a little more forgiving and the advent of being able to slot a moon with resources for when you lose a combat mean that I was engaging in combats during my turn with the intention of losing them. The battle for the tracks was interesting, but the developments, despite being worth some points, weren't as important as the Dwellings are in Eldervale. Obviously we need to play it more to determine if it is actually better than Dwellings, or just a space based 1.5 version of the game. I do think that if you didn't like Dwellings, this is still too much of that for you to all of a sudden like this game.
Jeff, I like your ideas about focusing on your favorite Solo games and rotating topics. The one thing that made me change the play speed from 1.25x to 1x every time one of your videos came on was your clever scripted intros. And I always stuck around for the Marvel-esque ending. The Dinogenics opening was fantastic! When you did your montage at the beginning of your Top 100 videos, it was like walking down memory lane. IMO, you are the closest thing to an American Shut Up & Sit Down style of game reporting. That being said, it doesn't have to be extravagant or flashy, just rely on your clever and wry sense of humor to make your content stand out. The clicks and subs will come!
Thank you, Zach! That was the idea behind that Top 100 - to do a little "memory lane...ing..." And I actually have some ideas to redo my existing intro into something just a little longer that showcases some of my nonsense... :) Even my wife got a big nostalgiac seeing some of those clips as they flew by and there was SO MUCH that I had to cut out even - I could do quite the montage nowadays!
I just wanted to say that I watch your video every week… What comes across to me is your honesty and genuine love for the hobby. I do enjoy the question of the week, and it’s fun when you discuss the games you are currently playing. Frankly, I have no idea why you don’t have more subscriptions…. Top tens are always entertaining, and the Dinogenics skit was hilarious ( yes, I did back it!). You seem to really enjoy winning games… 😊. Maybe a segment where you share in depth strategy tips for games you really enjoy?
I like a rotating topic. "Show me your game space," "From my shelf of shame. What's on yours?" Live Q&A (I think it would grow your channel but I get that scheduling time isn't the easiest with a family and full time job). "What do you like the best about your FLGS? What would you change?"
I thought this Andromeda's Edge review was better articulated and laid out than the separate video. There's a great game in there that I'm hoping to find, but I don't know that it's not just Cryo.
Several weeks late, but while not expanding presence on the DT, I think there are some lessons that can be taken from there. Tom has said several times that Top-10 lists are (in general) their best-performing videos. So maybe some Top-X videos (like earlier the week this video published) could goose the viewer numbers and hopefully convert some of those into subscribers. Also wondering if the channel name is hurting here. "Tabletop Toolbox" (and associated titles playing into the theme, like "Weekly Ratchet") to me implies something more focused on either game development or suggestions for making game experiences run smoother (possibly for dungeon masters). Not saying change it, but maybe something to ponder.
i watch this on a weekly basis, trying to think of how to get more content, I think doing things for other channels 1-2 times a month draws others to your channel that's how I found you was through dice tower
Hi Jeff. I don’t understand how the TH-cam algorithm works to be honest, and I don’t understand why you aren’t getting more time on the DT (although I have some thoughts about it that I’m happy to share privately with you). I first found you on the DT and proceeded to binge watch every video you made that I could find. You’re honest, you don’t pull any punches and you’re quite funny. Your channel is the only one I subscribe to where I don’t skip over any videos. I noticed that BGG does a creator spotlight on their front page. Can you get featured on there? You’d definitely get the exposure. As far as your future content, I’ll watch it all, but top 10’s and your game reviews are great.
@@TabletopToolbox Sorry, Jeff. I misunderstood. I’m glad you’re focusing on your channel. I find your approach unique and refreshing. Here’s an idea…you know how wines and beer, etc. are paired with certain foods? Well, do a bunch of segments on pairing drinks with games. You like to play Carcassonne, then here’s a French…(whatever) to serve at your next Carcassonne game night. You can call it, “Brews and Reviews”. You can include non alcoholic options too. I know you’re into craft beers and the like, so you’re knowledgeable about it. It would be something different, catch people’s attention. Or is that even allowed on TH-cam? I have no idea. I’m just brainstorming out loud. 😁
I always look forward to the Weekly Ratchet! As far as content ideas, perhaps you could pick two games in your collection with similar mechanisms and compare them. What are the strengths of each, which do you find more fun? Reviews are usually in a silo, but I find it interesting to learn how a game compares to other similar games. Enjoy your solo gaming week!
I thought that the game 'Big Top' being a small box game was cute. QotW - I would like to see mini-reviews of the games that you played the past week. But not just showing the box, showing some of the game play or at least views of the gaming field. And even if it is a game that you previously reviewed or was a game you didn't enjoy. Oh, and of course more of your daughter and father skits.
QotW: More jokes and funny videos. That is how I noticed you on the Dice Tower. IMHO if you want to grow your subscriber count it is important to show yourself on a more popular outlet, be that Dice Tower or some other channel. Also you often mention that your longer videos get more views. I think that it is because most viewers can't watch all of the video in one go so they have to come back to it at a later time and it counts as one more view. It's that or some youtube algorithm magic i.e. longer videos appear in the suggestions more often. Do what makes you happy and what you like. If you enjoy talking about a space game in a big box for 35 minutes then do it. :) There are more people who probably like to see that and you just need to find them somehow. Thank you for making these videos! I'm enjoying them.
Re: the channel Can you get some of the videos you have done on the Dice Tower, Dinogenics was way better than anything I have seen from Mark Steed, the Dice Tower Kickstarter preview video person? That is where I found you and found the link to the channel. Personally, I like the format, just talking about games and throwing in opinions about the industry. Putting up some reviews of games you love, might help get search hits, your enthusiasm comes through and raises the impact of the video in my humble opinion. Thanks for a great channel.
I really dislike the Streed segments, very one dimensional and just does nothing for me personally, I switch off them now. I think the concept of walking your dog and trying to exert enthusiasm into games isn't the right mix. Just how it comes across to me.
That's a shame with the videos and weekly wratchet, I watch them all although been a lot on recently so can take a few days and by the time I think through QOTW the next episode is up. I am someone who enjoys watching your content for how it is but I can see some might find things a bit samey?? Not sure if that is the right word. I think short reviews are good. I have said in a previous video I like the way you talk through the pros and cons etc and it comes across really credible. I think the whole QOTW idea is really good and thought that might work a bit better for you. Maybe it is something like a crowdfunding spotlight on one or two things you are really interested in. I'll try and think through some ideas. But yes definitely consider adding a few top 10s etc to add to your weekly wratchets as I find if I watch a few top 10s all of a sudden these other channels and top 10 lists come up as suggestions. This might then get newer viewers to see your channel and bring them on board. I'd be interested to see what others suggest. As for Dinogenics, you have one person here you can absolutely say has gone and backed that (plus the expansion) purely on your video. The video was brilliant and I chuckled many times watching the end where that nasty young daughter-dino keeps eating you!! That would have been a larf to make. But aside from that fun spin, I had previously heard of the game but realised it was a limited run and didn't give it much more thought but after watching your opinions and coverage it sold me to go get it. So there is a commission owing to you on my pledge I reckon!
36:10 Thanks for the info on Andromeda's Edge
Love the Wyrmspan Bits!!
Watch every week! ❤
@@Opelikacrush good to see you, Missy!!
What I like best is that you're not shy with your opinions on the industry and games... even when they're controversial. I'm no content creation expert (or could even begin in that space), but if you can build on that somehow... and also keep it genuine (i.e. don't ramp up the drama just for the sake of it), then I think that would help you grow. Speaking of controversial opinions, I generally agree with your thoughts on forming opinions with few or even one gameplay, but I can also offer some counterpoint to that based on personal experience. My wife doesn't like 99% of games after the first play, and that includes virtually every game that's now one of her favorites. She just needs time for new themes and mechanics to marinate. I'm the opposite - I'm definitely susceptible to cult-of-the-new (although not what's popular - just whatever new game I've purchased after doing the research and convincing myself I'll love it). So, we have a "3 plays" rule in our house where we try (as best we can) not to judge a game too negatively or positively until after the 3rd play. Then we rank it and agree to play it however often (whole other story on how we do that) after that 3rd play. Works well for us. But that just comes from knowing ourselves and how we approach new things. I think it's totally legit to judge a game on how approachable it is after the first play, and I think designers and publishers absolutely need to weight this heavily in their development approach.
Hey tteshera! I feel like there's a range with games (as with so many things) - you can certainly just loathe a game enough on the first play that you never want to see it again. Pax Pamir did that for me, for sure! Then again Obsession was a game I hated on the first play, but I liked so much of what it did that I forced myself to try it again and now it's one of my favorites (though player count DEFINITELY factors into that game!) So yeah - I don't disagree with you. I just disagree that you can't have ANY opinion after a first play and HAVE to play a game several times - even if you still hate it - before you can truly "judge" it.
Reviews would be great, because I believe we have similar tastes & I value your opinion.
I also like the idea of a rotating topic.
Love the channel. Can't wait to play a game or hang out with you again sometime.
I think reviews are one of the ways to go. I would love to see how you felt about Dwellings of Eldervale, as many of your critiques seem to exist in Dwellings as well.
I am enjoying the content so far. Keep it up and just keep being yourself
@npckse8508 the funny thing is, I don't remember a thing about Dwellings except the components. I downloaded the rulebook yesterday as I started to write an actual review of AE, and I was like, "I don't remember any of this...!"
@@TabletopToolbox Crazy, but perhaps for the best? Would have likely been odd if you loved Dwellings and just thought AE was okay. I will find out tomorrow after we play. I think it is definitely one of those games where you can see someone across the table with just amazing abilities and everything just fell into place for them while you struggle. As far as the combat, that is a common refrain from those with issues with Dwellings. Seems like the range concept in this one helps a little
So how did the playthrough go? And by the way what's your first name again?
@@TabletopToolbox Mark. You and I talked for a while about Dinogenics at the Retreat. Saints hat. As to the game it went well. There is so much of Dwellings in AE that it was crazy. Yet by adding targeting, diplomacy cards and the modules, it felt like a more streamlined experience. The modules were far easier to obtain than the elemental cards in Dwellings.
Combat was a little more forgiving and the advent of being able to slot a moon with resources for when you lose a combat mean that I was engaging in combats during my turn with the intention of losing them.
The battle for the tracks was interesting, but the developments, despite being worth some points, weren't as important as the Dwellings are in Eldervale. Obviously we need to play it more to determine if it is actually better than Dwellings, or just a space based 1.5 version of the game. I do think that if you didn't like Dwellings, this is still too much of that for you to all of a sudden like this game.
Jeff, I like your ideas about focusing on your favorite Solo games and rotating topics. The one thing that made me change the play speed from 1.25x to 1x every time one of your videos came on was your clever scripted intros. And I always stuck around for the Marvel-esque ending. The Dinogenics opening was fantastic! When you did your montage at the beginning of your Top 100 videos, it was like walking down memory lane. IMO, you are the closest thing to an American Shut Up & Sit Down style of game reporting. That being said, it doesn't have to be extravagant or flashy, just rely on your clever and wry sense of humor to make your content stand out. The clicks and subs will come!
Thank you, Zach! That was the idea behind that Top 100 - to do a little "memory lane...ing..." And I actually have some ideas to redo my existing intro into something just a little longer that showcases some of my nonsense... :) Even my wife got a big nostalgiac seeing some of those clips as they flew by and there was SO MUCH that I had to cut out even - I could do quite the montage nowadays!
I just wanted to say that I watch your video every week… What comes across to me is your honesty and genuine love for the hobby. I do enjoy the question of the week, and it’s fun when you discuss the games you are currently playing. Frankly, I have no idea why you don’t have more subscriptions…. Top tens are always entertaining, and the Dinogenics skit was hilarious ( yes, I did back it!). You seem to really enjoy winning games… 😊. Maybe a segment where you share in depth strategy tips for games you really enjoy?
Haha the best way to win a game is to do the opposite of whatever I do!!! :D
Well the subscripers may not be high quantity but quality wise ....
maybe add a tag line " the gaming channel discerning viewers approve of " 🙂
I like a rotating topic. "Show me your game space," "From my shelf of shame. What's on yours?" Live Q&A (I think it would grow your channel but I get that scheduling time isn't the easiest with a family and full time job). "What do you like the best about your FLGS? What would you change?"
I thought this Andromeda's Edge review was better articulated and laid out than the separate video.
There's a great game in there that I'm hoping to find, but I don't know that it's not just Cryo.
Several weeks late, but while not expanding presence on the DT, I think there are some lessons that can be taken from there. Tom has said several times that Top-10 lists are (in general) their best-performing videos. So maybe some Top-X videos (like earlier the week this video published) could goose the viewer numbers and hopefully convert some of those into subscribers.
Also wondering if the channel name is hurting here. "Tabletop Toolbox" (and associated titles playing into the theme, like "Weekly Ratchet") to me implies something more focused on either game development or suggestions for making game experiences run smoother (possibly for dungeon masters). Not saying change it, but maybe something to ponder.
i watch this on a weekly basis, trying to think of how to get more content, I think doing things for other channels 1-2 times a month draws others to your channel that's how I found you was through dice tower
Hi Jeff. I don’t understand how the TH-cam algorithm works to be honest, and I don’t understand why you aren’t getting more time on the DT (although I have some thoughts about it that I’m happy to share privately with you). I first found you on the DT and proceeded to binge watch every video you made that I could find. You’re honest, you don’t pull any punches and you’re quite funny. Your channel is the only one I subscribe to where I don’t skip over any videos. I noticed that BGG does a creator spotlight on their front page. Can you get featured on there? You’d definitely get the exposure. As far as your future content, I’ll watch it all, but top 10’s and your game reviews are great.
@cay6857 oh I'm not on DT as much because I just don't create as much content for them as I used to - I've been working more on this channel!
@@TabletopToolbox Sorry, Jeff. I misunderstood. I’m glad you’re focusing on your channel. I find your approach unique and refreshing. Here’s an idea…you know how wines and beer, etc. are paired with certain foods? Well, do a bunch of segments on pairing drinks with games. You like to play Carcassonne, then here’s a French…(whatever) to serve at your next Carcassonne game night. You can call it, “Brews and Reviews”. You can include non alcoholic options too. I know you’re into craft beers and the like, so you’re knowledgeable about it. It would be something different, catch people’s attention. Or is that even allowed on TH-cam? I have no idea. I’m just brainstorming out loud. 😁
I always look forward to the Weekly Ratchet! As far as content ideas, perhaps you could pick two games in your collection with similar mechanisms and compare them. What are the strengths of each, which do you find more fun? Reviews are usually in a silo, but I find it interesting to learn how a game compares to other similar games. Enjoy your solo gaming week!
I thought that the game 'Big Top' being a small box game was cute.
QotW - I would like to see mini-reviews of the games that you played the past week. But not just showing the box, showing some of the game play or at least views of the gaming field. And even if it is a game that you previously reviewed or was a game you didn't enjoy.
Oh, and of course more of your daughter and father skits.
QotW: More jokes and funny videos. That is how I noticed you on the Dice Tower.
IMHO if you want to grow your subscriber count it is important to show yourself on a more popular outlet, be that Dice Tower or some other channel. Also you often mention that your longer videos get more views. I think that it is because most viewers can't watch all of the video in one go so they have to come back to it at a later time and it counts as one more view. It's that or some youtube algorithm magic i.e. longer videos appear in the suggestions more often.
Do what makes you happy and what you like. If you enjoy talking about a space game in a big box for 35 minutes then do it. :) There are more people who probably like to see that and you just need to find them somehow.
Thank you for making these videos! I'm enjoying them.
Re: the channel
Can you get some of the videos you have done on the Dice Tower, Dinogenics was way better than anything I have seen from Mark Steed, the Dice Tower Kickstarter preview video person? That is where I found you and found the link to the channel.
Personally, I like the format, just talking about games and throwing in opinions about the industry.
Putting up some reviews of games you love, might help get search hits, your enthusiasm comes through and raises the impact of the video in my humble opinion.
Thanks for a great channel.
I really dislike the Streed segments, very one dimensional and just does nothing for me personally, I switch off them now. I think the concept of walking your dog and trying to exert enthusiasm into games isn't the right mix. Just how it comes across to me.
Jeff
Re: Monopoly
Does not every family have the epic Monopoly fight story. My kids still talk about the one my wife and I had during a family game.😂
That's a shame with the videos and weekly wratchet, I watch them all although been a lot on recently so can take a few days and by the time I think through QOTW the next episode is up. I am someone who enjoys watching your content for how it is but I can see some might find things a bit samey?? Not sure if that is the right word. I think short reviews are good. I have said in a previous video I like the way you talk through the pros and cons etc and it comes across really credible. I think the whole QOTW idea is really good and thought that might work a bit better for you. Maybe it is something like a crowdfunding spotlight on one or two things you are really interested in. I'll try and think through some ideas.
But yes definitely consider adding a few top 10s etc to add to your weekly wratchets as I find if I watch a few top 10s all of a sudden these other channels and top 10 lists come up as suggestions. This might then get newer viewers to see your channel and bring them on board. I'd be interested to see what others suggest.
As for Dinogenics, you have one person here you can absolutely say has gone and backed that (plus the expansion) purely on your video. The video was brilliant and I chuckled many times watching the end where that nasty young daughter-dino keeps eating you!! That would have been a larf to make. But aside from that fun spin, I had previously heard of the game but realised it was a limited run and didn't give it much more thought but after watching your opinions and coverage it sold me to go get it. So there is a commission owing to you on my pledge I reckon!
oops , wrong message showing at 15:21.
Aww dangit!!!