Rodney: "I can be that friend that people are looking for that teaches them how to play games!" This perfectly summarizes how I feel about Rodney Smith.
It's the Board game Cinematic Universe coming together. At some point it'll be Dice Tower, Watch it Played, SH&SD, Rhando, Actualol, Jon Gets Games, 3MinsBoardgames, Board Game Co, + whoever I'm forgetting all joining forces
Rodney is so adorable. I love his how-to-play videos not only because they are REAL how-to-play videos (and not half-assed wannabe explanation videos), but also because he manages to maintain a relevant youtube channel without cussing, clickbait or being overly excentric or hyped. In a time, where youtube as a social medium becomes more and more hectic, passive agressive and negative in order to achieve views, I always feel this warmth when I watch his channel. The warmth of having a strict good-mood-policy and doing everything to keep it that way, no matter the context. Just a lovely person reminding all of us that the goal of this hobby is to have fun and to escape the bubble of everyday-problems, instead of looking for new problems or polemics regarding board games. Big hug goes out my man. The more philosophical, toxic and ironic guy on the left seems to be pretty ok too.
Rodney: How long have we got? Quinns: At least another 10-15 minutes. Timer: 30 minutes remaining. Love to see two people enjoying their conversation so much!
Articulate, insightful, fun, casual, caring, empathetic, mindful--these are merely a subset of the qualities on display in this conversation. Cheers, gentlemen. I found this delightfully engaging.
Agreed. Been a fan of both channels for a long long time now. Very unusual for me to sit through an 90+ minute conversation/interview. Stranger still to love every minute of it. Give us more collaborations Quinn’s!
Wow. I did not expect to have my channel name dropped at the end there. But that shed a good tear in my eye. Both of you are so insightful and this conversation was inspiring. The work you both put into your craft shows. I loved the bit about how we all at the end of the day just want to share how much we love boardgames, it’s so true. Also funny how my name is Sam Smith… this could be a trend?
@@LordoftheBoard Your timestamp is for a minute nineteen seconds. Should look like this 1:19:00 for an hour nineteen or like this 1:19:30 to get people closer.
I'm 35 minutes in and I'm starting to appreciate just how much excellence and institutional knowledge underpins both these people's professional work. I've admired (as a teacher) Rodney's elegance in explaining a game, the little details he probably spent a long time on that show up for a few seconds on screen but make a difficult concept seem obvious. I've been moved (as a performer and musician) by Quintin's ability to make me feel like I'm discovering a new 'magic circle' that I can't wait to reveal to my friends if only I can get this new game to the table. I agree with the Smiths (not the band, the... never mind) that what keeps you in the hobby is the advent of the new, but it's not crass consumerism or the cheap dopamine hit every 90 seconds of a video game, it's the sense that here is a fresh revelation of the human experience, that I can share. I'm sure that sounds cheesy but there it is. Thanks for this!
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I didn't mean to watch everything but the conversation was so lovely and heartfelt that I ended up sitting through it all. It was very joyful, thank you both for this (:
The movement of the cardboard, wood, and plastic chits on the table are the physical manifestation of the thoughts, strategy, and tactics of the person you’re playing with or against as you all set your collective wits to a homogenous task. That’s the intrigue. I haven’t found another place where that happens.
Favourite reviewer and favourite teacher! I'm a grumpy 52 year old Scotsman and got into the hobby more seriously about 3 years ago. We buy games that we fancy (sometimes based on SUSD) and then instantly I look to Rodney to see if he has a vid on it as I am our groups 'teacher'. You guys are responsible for more laughs and joyous moments in my friends and families lives than you will ever know. My sincere thanks.
Man Rodney just comes across so well. His videos have taught me so many games, but its cool to see his insights and a bit more of his opinions. Great video!
Quinns: "Each box was, like, full of possibilities. You just didn't know what ideas or adventures or stories would come out of these boxes." You've just nailed my 45+ years of board gaming, right there. Still true today, with every game.
1:32:50 I had an experience Similar to that of Quinns at Essen when I met Zee Garcia. My first ever board game convention and I ran into one of my favourite board game reviewers, who my taste for games aligns most with. Plus, he always gave the impression of being an altogether nice and amusing person. I felt like I was meeting an old friend and he was kind of formal and distant which put me off a bit. Then I was like "Well, duh - of course - I am a stranger to him!" Weird - this kind of one-way online "friendships".
So interesting to hear comments like Quinn’s saying “I went to a convention and I felt like I knew this TH-camr when we really hadn’t met before.” Or Rodney say “wow the time flies talking to you.” This is most likely the longest TH-cam video I’ve watched in 2021 by at least 45 minutes and I really enjoyed it. These are two of my favorites in this industry and it’s a real treat to listen in. Thanks!
My favorite SUSD video was on Crockinole. I wish Rodney was asked about Crockinole the great Canadian game! After sharing it with my son he made 3 of them giving me one for father's day.
"how much you enjoy a game a lot of the time comes down to how much everybody cares about everything that's happening on the table." Thank you for putting into words why it really sucks to play board games with certain people.
For Rodney to quote from Quinn's first video shows what a person Rodney is. Great conversation and we are happy to have both of you in this hobby. Cheers for many years to come.
Rodney nails why I love boardgames by quoting Quins at 20:40 -- amazing! And I agree with Rodney -- if everyone is invested in the game it feels great. When a player is just playing to win -- it doesn't.
You asked for a nice comment, you got it... SU&SD was one of the things that made the last couple years tolerable. I have always loved board games but had drifted away from the hobby a bit, only playing occasionally. In the middle of 2020 I decided I needed to do more things that were just fun and uplifting and thought, "Are there any other games besides solitaire that you can play by yourself?" Quick TH-cam search and I came across Quinns talking about solo games. That was perfect, exactly what I needed, and I've been a fan ever since. Now I'm working on reviving and expanding my board game collection and taking every opportunity to get a group of friends together and have some fun. Thank you for everything you do. Hope to meet you all at a convention and shake your hand (fist-bump, high five, whatever) one day. Cheers.
I WOULD LISTEN TO THIS DUO'S PODCAST!!!!! I love Quinns already, and this video taught me how well-spoken and articulate and capable Rodney is in a conversation. Man this was a joy, listening to you two knowledgeable people converse. Do some more :)
I could not agree more with what Rodney said about how important good rulebooks are because it could be someone's first attempt to get in to the hobby and a bad rulebook could deter them from something they may have come to love and may have changed their life. I feel too many rulebooks have issues that very simple changes could fix and not enough publishers prioritize making sure the rules are blind tested enough by people who won't make assumptions to catch the issues. It's rare I open a rulebook and don't have to spend time searching for clarifications and I pretty much always find them because someone has already asked the question. Even being a major enthusiast, I am often frustrated by having to stop multiple times while learning a game to find answers. I really hope more people care about this going forward. That said, this was such a wonderful discussion I absolutely adore these 2 human beings and it was so amazing to hear them talk about gaming in the ways I talk about it and feel about it. It's like being around family.
I can't that the two of you are in the same video, this made my day. I'm from Brazil and the two of you have been my main go to reference for BGs for years now. Both are so friendly, funny and polite. Congrats for the formidable work.
First video on TH-cam I've wanted to press the thumbs up icon 1000 times. A prime example of the passion, joy and energy found within board gaming, by two of the best in the community. Here's to another 10 years, you wonderful humans. Cheers lads :)
I love the board game / video game comparison. As someone who’s primary hobby all my life has been video games, jumping into board games has been eye opening in terms of learning and teaching games. Game DESIGN is so transparent and on display within the board game space whereas in video games there is so much pearl clutching and trying to keep everything behind the scenes so hush hush. It’s just so refreshing seeing designers often in the forefront and very open to discussing in detail what they go through.
I am going to treasure this discussion. Thank you both for the hours of valuable entertainment, education, and consumer advice! I’ve been able to meet you both at 2015/16 GenCon. Quinns, I told you at the meet up party my favorite things were mid-review turnarounds and the old tea breaks. Rodney, at the Secret Cabal meetup I asked you to thank your daughter for teaching me Jaipur. Thank you both- keep up the great work and take care!
Rodney says, "I want to be that friend that teaches you the board game." Yes! He is that exactly. I almost always check out his channel before I buy or play a game just to see if he has a video explaining it.
Hey Rodney. I’m one of those silly people who loves to read rule books, so I don’t watch your videos often. But I’m grateful for what you’re doing for the accessibility of board games for those who don’t enjoy rule books. Great conversation. You two fit each other well!
I don't really watch how to play videos unless it's a very complex game or the rulebook is terrible. I still look at his channel from time to time to see what's up. I like glancing over new games and seeing what they have to offer.
Couple of truly fantastic insights here, thank you for that. I especially liked the “board games might be for people who like to learn and experience new games”, the “rules is what the game actually is, it’s potential in a box” and the “your enjoyment of a game comes down to how much everyone care about everything that happens at the table”.
So much love for both Rodney and the whole SU&SD cast (although particularly you, Quinns). For all the fragility you guys realistically talk about, I look forward to videos from both of you for years to come.
I can't remember the last time watching an hour and a half TH-camvideo in full attention. This was such a warm and interesting conversation. Would love to see more collaborations like this!
Great stuff guys. Can't thank you both enough for the hard work you guys put into this. Rodney - without your site, so many evenings of joy would not have been bootstrapped. Quinns and all of SUSD, we wouldn't necessarily of found those games in the first place. One thing about the pandemic that's great, is that it's brought these kinds of cross over content that would normally only be there on panels at conventions. Please keep it up.
Merry Smithmas. I love all games (video, board, whatever) but I find that as much as new games are enjoyable I look for replay value. If I enjoy the game - I am absolutely sold on needing to playing again. Nemesis is one such game - for me, it sucks me in and makes me feel like I am in aliens. Win or lose I just want to survive, avoid the queen and fry an alien one way or another. I started watching you both probably the week after COVID hit and have bought games based on your reviews which I have not regretted. Thanks for the great content.
What a great conversation! You both articulated so many thoughts I have had about the hobby, which coincidentally I have been in for 10 years, as well (and started as a media person in video games too, incidentally). Rodney, you are a great teacher, so thoughtful and articulate in your conversations, and your positive attitude is just lovely. Quinns, you are just so naturally entertaining and engaging to listen to, as well as being very insightful about this industry (and the video industry as well, I completely agree with your assessment). Thank you both, I watched the whole thing! Someday I hope to meet both of you at a convention.
For whatever reason I initially thought this was a short 15 min video, but in fact it turned out to be a short 90+ minutes video, because I could watch you two talk board games for hours... lots of love to both of you!
This was an emotionally touching video; very relatable. I found it interesting as someone who's about 20 years older than these two and desperately trying to burn my cult of the new membership card and go more in to depth with the games I have (while also trying to prune & curate the collection down to a manageable size). I'd like to go back in time and tell my younger self there's something as satisfying about playing that one game ten times as there is playing those ten games one time. And both of those beat not playing those 99 other games in the collection at all. I'm still working on how best to eliminate the fear of missing out. A majority of my closest friends are gamers. Either I met them gaming and bonded over the shared experience or I met them and discovered they were gamers. It's a strange, obsessive hobby. It was fun to see two people passionate about something get the chance to let that passion run with someone that could appreciate it. Thanks Smiths.
Two of the best board game channels spending time interviewing each other and sharing their thoughts. Fantastic! Listened to the entire thing while painting terrain and enjoyed every minute.
Gosh, a thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and honestly found a lot of inspiration from it. I'm a game design student at university, and everything Quins and Rodney discussed in terms of the growth of their passion over board gaming for the past decade really hit home. It reminded me so much of my path falling in love with video games, and I just wanted to say thank you for caring so vibrantly and colorfully about this medium in front of us. Have a good one boys 👍
You’re both too hard on yourselves for the early stuff. I’ve enjoyed it since the beginning, and both channels (as well as The Dice Tower) were a big reason I (re)found a love of board games. Great interview!
Two of my favourite channels. When I first got into the hobby a few years ago I picked up Dead of Winter on a whim. I remember opening the box and being overwhelmed until I googled “how to play dead of winter”- I found one of Rodney’s videos and I was just so impressed. From there I found SUSD and love their style. Well done all!
An hour after they took their beards off, I was so engaged in their discussion that I forgot about the beard gag and thought Quintin had the hairiest chest I have ever seen.
These two have been instrumental in building my board game collection and my love of the hobby. SU&SD introduces me to amazing games and amazing experiences, and Rodney teaches me how to play them, and gives me the confidence to teach my friends to play them. I love these guys, and seeing them on screen together is delight.
I'm really glad that Quins didn't let Rodney talk over him. I know Rodney doesn't do it on purpose. He's an incredibly nice person and I know he's just excited to talk about his favorite thing, but all too often people will carelessly trample on another person's story and Quins handled it absolutely perfectly. Really nice dynamic here.
There are several conversation styles but two that really contrast together. One is where someone grew up waiting for someone to finish speaking completely before saying anything, and they show engagement by quietly listening. Another style is to show engagement by chiming in on top when something really connects and the person relates. Families like that tend to have a lot of people talking at once and interrupting often, but that's how they show engagement in the conversation.
Great chat! Big respect for what both of you do for the board game industry. Watch it played is not usually my go to channel when it comes to learning how to play new games but what Rodney mentioned about correcting the rulebook happened once to me. I watched one of his videos and commented that a rule was different from the rulebook and he kindly replied saying that he reached out to the publisher and the rulebook was wrong. Solid work! That definitely makes his channel the most reliable one on TH-cam
When I was just getting into hobby games I bought Mice and Mystics to play with my young children. It was like jumping into the deep end of the tidal wave pool 😮 I ended up literally in tears trying to work out how to play this game that relied on so many concepts I had never heard of before and didn't explain any of them! I ended up finding Rodney's video and after watching it, later that same day my kids and I played through the first chapter and had a ton of fun. Without Rodney I would have been so discouraged I may have given up entirely on playing anything more complicated than Forbidden Island. Rodney provides something to the board game world that no one else does....he opens the door and says "come on in, let me introduce you to everyone and break the ice for you all night". Rodney, you are a gem. Of course I love watching SU&SD too, for pure board game entertainment and game reviews on games I don't see discussed much elsewhere. Great discussion guys. 👍
It was so nice to see a conversation between the channel showing me which boarding I will likely enjoy and the one teaching me to play it. Thanks to both of you !
These two guys here are what got me into the hobby! Fantastic convo!! Rodney’s original play through of Mansions of Madness 1st edition introduced me to the Lovecraft universe.
I love listening to the two of you talk about what you're passionate about. As someone just starting in the world of board game videos it's hard not to copy what you two do because it is so great. Thanks for doing what you do
Congratulations on 10 years! I started into Modern board gaming about that long ago. I remember watching your videos, trying to figure this whole thing out. When I found out you were also Canadian, my heart just filled with pride. I am also one of those people who really doesn’t have anyone to play with. I got in with a group and a year later COVID hit. My two teenage boys are pretty good to play with but they love going back to their favourites, like Star Realms and Zombicide, but slowly we are playing more games. Thank you for all you have done for the hobby Rodney. Without you, many of us would have given up and stopped playing and stopped buying! Cheers to another 10 years!
Late to the game here folks. I adored watching a video between 2 creators who have such a radically different approach but such a common love of the hobby. I will say, however, if you watch this video, you will eventually realize that Rodney Smith is the kindest Vampire ever to walk in our realm. Thanks guys!
I just want to thank both of you for what you do for the hobby. Know that it IS very much appreciated. I can guarantee that many, many more feel the same way, though not everyone will tell you. It's similar to the 20/80 rule but different: while 20% will complain about something 80% of the time, of the 80% that are happy, up to 2% will let you know this. Just keep being you and people will watch (and love) what you (both) do.
Yo I love how the affects of their careers come through in how they carry a conversation. Quinns: *longwinded yet articulate emotions oriented response* Rodney: *direct responses with specific examples building to finish* Love both these guys!
It's really interesting what Quinns and Rodney say around 17:30 about the joy of discovering new games. I didn't really play board games much until around late 2018, but I watched SU&SD for over 5 years already because I loved learning about these new games, and their design.
This is the kind of videos to watch when you are a little down or sad, I'll remind me to come back if that's the case, because this two guys irradiate mental health and good feelings.
Such a lovely conversation. I am so grateful to be in this hobby for the welcoming friendly people and joy it brings. I can really related to the outsider sentiment you both had. I honestly believe that finding the hobby and others guys like me during my teens (in the 90s) saved me from jail or worse.
Thanks so much for this video. I have a board game channel, but I've had a real tough time of it lately (personal stuff) and been really down. Although my passion for board games wasn't diminished, my desire to work on the channel wasn't there any more as I've been constantly sad and apathetic. Watching you two and hearing you speak about how much you love what you do and why you do it really helped pull me out of that pit. It was a really inspiring video that just shook me out of my slump and energized me. Soon as I finished watching I just felt that drive again for the first time in weeks. Thanks again!
I’ll credit both of these people, in part with my interest in the hobby. Specifically, I had heard about Rodney’s channel through a random board game podcast I was curious about. One of his videos I stumbled across was his guide to Splendor. After watching it, I thought, “this looks cool,” and looked up some more info on the game. SUSD’s review of Splendor and Machi Koro came up right away, and I was hooked!
I discovered Rodney's channel when trying to put together the rules for Brass: Birmingham, which is a game possibly introduced to me by SUSD. Thank you both for giving me enjoyable and useful content that has helped me explore my passion for the beegees.
This was such a treat to watch over the holidays. I can't think of 2 better people to be ambassadors in the board-gaming community. Each is so eloquent about the hobby and provide such useful and entertaining content. This was honestly something to look forward to for me over the holidays and I'm happy that you shared it. I sincerely hope to see more cross-overs with your channels.
This conversation is so good I've listened to it more than once. How is that possible? Absolutely great content perfect for the holiday season. Cheers gentlemen!
That was a really fascinating co-interview. So many little aha moments for me. Quinns - I've purchased and not purchased so many games based on your site's reviews. Not necessarily because you loved them or didn't but because you have me enough insight to know with a fair amount of confidence that I would probably like it not like the game. Rodney - we have an annual gaming weekend which sees well over 100 games brought away for 3 days of gaming. I have a spreadsheet of all the games with tutorial links for medium to heavy weight games of which a good two thirds feature you - so thank you as this makes running these weekends so much easier.
This was an absolutely amazing conversation. Thank you both for sharing it with us, and for everything you've both done to make the hobby better and more joyful for the last 10 years.
What a great video. Rodney, you are that friend! My brother and I played Terraforming Mars for the first time yesterday and we had your video on it paused in the background, ready to answer any questions we had. It made our game way more fun!
Thank you two for the talk. It's beautiful when you see two people sharing the same love that you have for friendship, being together and, of course, boardgames. Wish you the best and keep counting with my views on both channels (I'm one of the numbers 😉). Simão
I did not plan on watching this whole thing in one go and did anyway and find myself wishing it was ten times as long. This was immensely enjoyable. Rodney lovable as ever and Quinns is a fantastic interviewer.
I love that moment when I see the group get into it. I'm pretty new to this and I'm the board game guy. And I'll admit I have a lot of anxiety before I set out the game or go through the teach, but that moment where there is like this buy-in from the group really gets me. I love this hobby. I love the games from a design point of view. Like how can some person across the world get me and my friends care so much about their specific cardboards and follow their rules and all that. Thank you to both Smiths (among others) for guiding me through this
A true collision of brilliance and banter. I loved every moment of this vulnerable conversations between friends. Can we make this a sweepstakes or a charity event??? Sitting down with both Quintin & Rodney for a day full of playing board games.
As someone who does genuinely love teaching people games, that little anecdote Quinns told about the Vlaada rulebook and the dragon foodfight thing makes so much sense to me in a way I honestly never even noticed, because that's exactly what I do. Fun little jokes and the inherent ridiculousness in some of the rules and constructing a little image or story around them is really important to not just entertaining people during The Teach, but also helping them to remember it. Love you both, could listen to you two talk all day.
I rarely comment on videos.. Just wanted to say thank you so much to you both (and the teams, old and new) for guiding me into and through a hobby which I love and is definately my happy place. Happy Christmas to you all. Wishing you an awesome/inspiring new year.❤️
Great episode. Lots of great content from both teams, but this is one of the most interesting things I’ve heard either team do, providing the “meta” perspective. And clearly these two work well together. I would suggest they continue this as a monthly podcast/video and keep the conversation going.
Literally the first time when I have heard someone summarize maybe the real reward was the friends we met along the way and be sincere. Rodney won me over as a person on that last question. I was on the fence. Quinns, keep being kind, enthusiastic, and insightful. Wish both channels and teams all the luck.
This is such an amazing conversation! Rodney taught me my first heavier game which was Zombicide, and Quinns introduced me to a whole new world of board games, and taught me that big plastic miniatures do NOT always equal fun.
I'm really, really happy you decided to join each other in this, from the heart kind of video! I love your content and hope you you continue doing it for long time! ❤
Rodney: "I can be that friend that people are looking for that teaches them how to play games!"
This perfectly summarizes how I feel about Rodney Smith.
Rodney has been teaching me and the gaming group how to play games for years!
This is the crossover I've been waiting for
Same!
Smith and Smith
There was also the Tom Vasel crossover not too long ago
I need a SUSD Secret Cabal cross over
It's the Board game Cinematic Universe coming together. At some point it'll be Dice Tower, Watch it Played, SH&SD, Rhando, Actualol, Jon Gets Games, 3MinsBoardgames, Board Game Co, + whoever I'm forgetting all joining forces
To quote my 4-year-old daughter, "This makes my heart so happy!"
Rodney is so adorable. I love his how-to-play videos not only because they are REAL how-to-play videos (and not half-assed wannabe explanation videos), but also because he manages to maintain a relevant youtube channel without cussing, clickbait or being overly excentric or hyped. In a time, where youtube as a social medium becomes more and more hectic, passive agressive and negative in order to achieve views, I always feel this warmth when I watch his channel. The warmth of having a strict good-mood-policy and doing everything to keep it that way, no matter the context. Just a lovely person reminding all of us that the goal of this hobby is to have fun and to escape the bubble of everyday-problems, instead of looking for new problems or polemics regarding board games. Big hug goes out my man. The more philosophical, toxic and ironic guy on the left seems to be pretty ok too.
Rodney: How long have we got?
Quinns: At least another 10-15 minutes.
Timer: 30 minutes remaining.
Love to see two people enjoying their conversation so much!
My two favorite people, in board gaming, chatting like best of friends for 1.5 hours. This is fantastic. Please make this a more regular thing.
Articulate, insightful, fun, casual, caring, empathetic, mindful--these are merely a subset of the qualities on display in this conversation. Cheers, gentlemen. I found this delightfully engaging.
So entertaining and so much admiration for their content.
Agreed. Been a fan of both channels for a long long time now. Very unusual for me to sit through an 90+ minute conversation/interview. Stranger still to love every minute of it. Give us more collaborations Quinn’s!
I entered chat to express the same thing. But you did it so eloquently that I don’t have to. Thank you!
We’ll said. I could have watched three more hours of this conversation!
Ditto!
Rodney quoting Quintin and Quintin not believing he said something so deep
timestamp: 20:40 That's so great!
“Wow who said that”. You did.
Rodney is so wholesome, always so humble and positive
I loved this, because earlier Quinns was cringing at Rodney having watched the first episodes, and then he showed him that gem.
Especially since Quinns just loves to crap all over his old stuff :)
Wow. I did not expect to have my channel name dropped at the end there. But that shed a good tear in my eye.
Both of you are so insightful and this conversation was inspiring. The work you both put into your craft shows. I loved the bit about how we all at the end of the day just want to share how much we love boardgames, it’s so true.
Also funny how my name is Sam Smith… this could be a trend?
LOL - I thought of you when I found out Quintin's last name was Smith as well. Also, I love your content too!
Just watched the video, but didn't hear them shout out any channels... did I miss something?
@@CoreyHardt it was around 1:19:30 :)
@@DrakkanWoW thank you so much! 🔥
@@LordoftheBoard Your timestamp is for a minute nineteen seconds. Should look like this 1:19:00 for an hour nineteen or like this 1:19:30 to get people closer.
I'm 35 minutes in and I'm starting to appreciate just how much excellence and institutional knowledge underpins both these people's professional work. I've admired (as a teacher) Rodney's elegance in explaining a game, the little details he probably spent a long time on that show up for a few seconds on screen but make a difficult concept seem obvious. I've been moved (as a performer and musician) by Quintin's ability to make me feel like I'm discovering a new 'magic circle' that I can't wait to reveal to my friends if only I can get this new game to the table. I agree with the Smiths (not the band, the... never mind) that what keeps you in the hobby is the advent of the new, but it's not crass consumerism or the cheap dopamine hit every 90 seconds of a video game, it's the sense that here is a fresh revelation of the human experience, that I can share. I'm sure that sounds cheesy but there it is. Thanks for this!
I didn't mean to watch everything but the conversation was so lovely and heartfelt that I ended up sitting through it all. It was very joyful, thank you both for this (:
The movement of the cardboard, wood, and plastic chits on the table are the physical manifestation of the thoughts, strategy, and tactics of the person you’re playing with or against as you all set your collective wits to a homogenous task. That’s the intrigue. I haven’t found another place where that happens.
Favourite reviewer and favourite teacher! I'm a grumpy 52 year old Scotsman and got into the hobby more seriously about 3 years ago. We buy games that we fancy (sometimes based on SUSD) and then instantly I look to Rodney to see if he has a vid on it as I am our groups 'teacher'. You guys are responsible for more laughs and joyous moments in my friends and families lives than you will ever know. My sincere thanks.
Man Rodney just comes across so well. His videos have taught me so many games, but its cool to see his insights and a bit more of his opinions. Great video!
Quinns: "Each box was, like, full of possibilities. You just didn't know what ideas or adventures or stories would come out of these boxes."
You've just nailed my 45+ years of board gaming, right there. Still true today, with every game.
1:32:50 I had an experience Similar to that of Quinns at Essen when I met Zee Garcia. My first ever board game convention and I ran into one of my favourite board game reviewers, who my taste for games aligns most with. Plus, he always gave the impression of being an altogether nice and amusing person. I felt like I was meeting an old friend and he was kind of formal and distant which put me off a bit.
Then I was like "Well, duh - of course - I am a stranger to him!"
Weird - this kind of one-way online "friendships".
So interesting to hear comments like Quinn’s saying “I went to a convention and I felt like I knew this TH-camr when we really hadn’t met before.” Or Rodney say “wow the time flies talking to you.” This is most likely the longest TH-cam video I’ve watched in 2021 by at least 45 minutes and I really enjoyed it. These are two of my favorites in this industry and it’s a real treat to listen in. Thanks!
It is about 6:30 shorter then the longest I have watched. (Not counting one that was divided into 3 3 hour parts). Its still a great video tough.
My favorite SUSD video was on Crockinole. I wish Rodney was asked about Crockinole the great Canadian game! After sharing it with my son he made 3 of them giving me one for father's day.
"how much you enjoy a game a lot of the time comes down to how much everybody cares about everything that's happening on the table." Thank you for putting into words why it really sucks to play board games with certain people.
For Rodney to quote from Quinn's first video shows what a person Rodney is. Great conversation and we are happy to have both of you in this hobby. Cheers for many years to come.
My life is now complete. My two favorite channels have come together. Such a great double interview
Rodney nails why I love boardgames by quoting Quins at 20:40 -- amazing! And I agree with Rodney -- if everyone is invested in the game it feels great. When a player is just playing to win -- it doesn't.
You asked for a nice comment, you got it...
SU&SD was one of the things that made the last couple years tolerable. I have always loved board games but had drifted away from the hobby a bit, only playing occasionally. In the middle of 2020 I decided I needed to do more things that were just fun and uplifting and thought, "Are there any other games besides solitaire that you can play by yourself?" Quick TH-cam search and I came across Quinns talking about solo games. That was perfect, exactly what I needed, and I've been a fan ever since. Now I'm working on reviving and expanding my board game collection and taking every opportunity to get a group of friends together and have some fun. Thank you for everything you do.
Hope to meet you all at a convention and shake your hand (fist-bump, high five, whatever) one day.
Cheers.
I WOULD LISTEN TO THIS DUO'S PODCAST!!!!! I love Quinns already, and this video taught me how well-spoken and articulate and capable Rodney is in a conversation. Man this was a joy, listening to you two knowledgeable people converse. Do some more :)
I could not agree more with what Rodney said about how important good rulebooks are because it could be someone's first attempt to get in to the hobby and a bad rulebook could deter them from something they may have come to love and may have changed their life. I feel too many rulebooks have issues that very simple changes could fix and not enough publishers prioritize making sure the rules are blind tested enough by people who won't make assumptions to catch the issues. It's rare I open a rulebook and don't have to spend time searching for clarifications and I pretty much always find them because someone has already asked the question. Even being a major enthusiast, I am often frustrated by having to stop multiple times while learning a game to find answers. I really hope more people care about this going forward.
That said, this was such a wonderful discussion I absolutely adore these 2 human beings and it was so amazing to hear them talk about gaming in the ways I talk about it and feel about it. It's like being around family.
I can't that the two of you are in the same video, this made my day.
I'm from Brazil and the two of you have been my main go to reference for BGs for years now. Both are so friendly, funny and polite.
Congrats for the formidable work.
First video on TH-cam I've wanted to press the thumbs up icon 1000 times. A prime example of the passion, joy and energy found within board gaming, by two of the best in the community. Here's to another 10 years, you wonderful humans. Cheers lads :)
I love the board game / video game comparison.
As someone who’s primary hobby all my life has been video games, jumping into board games has been eye opening in terms of learning and teaching games. Game DESIGN is so transparent and on display within the board game space whereas in video games there is so much pearl clutching and trying to keep everything behind the scenes so hush hush.
It’s just so refreshing seeing designers often in the forefront and very open to discussing in detail what they go through.
I am going to treasure this discussion. Thank you both for the hours of valuable entertainment, education, and consumer advice!
I’ve been able to meet you both at 2015/16 GenCon. Quinns, I told you at the meet up party my favorite things were mid-review turnarounds and the old tea breaks. Rodney, at the Secret Cabal meetup I asked you to thank your daughter for teaching me Jaipur.
Thank you both- keep up the great work and take care!
Rodney says, "I want to be that friend that teaches you the board game." Yes! He is that exactly. I almost always check out his channel before I buy or play a game just to see if he has a video explaining it.
Hey Rodney. I’m one of those silly people who loves to read rule books, so I don’t watch your videos often. But I’m grateful for what you’re doing for the accessibility of board games for those who don’t enjoy rule books.
Great conversation. You two fit each other well!
I don't really watch how to play videos unless it's a very complex game or the rulebook is terrible. I still look at his channel from time to time to see what's up. I like glancing over new games and seeing what they have to offer.
Couple of truly fantastic insights here, thank you for that. I especially liked the “board games might be for people who like to learn and experience new games”, the “rules is what the game actually is, it’s potential in a box” and the “your enjoyment of a game comes down to how much everyone care about everything that happens at the table”.
this is so beautiful and wholesome and it makes me so immensely happy
So much love for both Rodney and the whole SU&SD cast (although particularly you, Quinns). For all the fragility you guys realistically talk about, I look forward to videos from both of you for years to come.
I can't remember the last time watching an hour and a half TH-camvideo in full attention. This was such a warm and interesting conversation. Would love to see more collaborations like this!
Great stuff guys. Can't thank you both enough for the hard work you guys put into this. Rodney - without your site, so many evenings of joy would not have been bootstrapped. Quinns and all of SUSD, we wouldn't necessarily of found those games in the first place. One thing about the pandemic that's great, is that it's brought these kinds of cross over content that would normally only be there on panels at conventions. Please keep it up.
Merry Smithmas.
I love all games (video, board, whatever) but I find that as much as new games are enjoyable I look for replay value. If I enjoy the game - I am absolutely sold on needing to playing again. Nemesis is one such game - for me, it sucks me in and makes me feel like I am in aliens. Win or lose I just want to survive, avoid the queen and fry an alien one way or another.
I started watching you both probably the week after COVID hit and have bought games based on your reviews which I have not regretted. Thanks for the great content.
What a great conversation! You both articulated so many thoughts I have had about the hobby, which coincidentally I have been in for 10 years, as well (and started as a media person in video games too, incidentally). Rodney, you are a great teacher, so thoughtful and articulate in your conversations, and your positive attitude is just lovely. Quinns, you are just so naturally entertaining and engaging to listen to, as well as being very insightful about this industry (and the video industry as well, I completely agree with your assessment). Thank you both, I watched the whole thing! Someday I hope to meet both of you at a convention.
For whatever reason I initially thought this was a short 15 min video, but in fact it turned out to be a short 90+ minutes video, because I could watch you two talk board games for hours... lots of love to both of you!
This was an emotionally touching video; very relatable. I found it interesting as someone who's about 20 years older than these two and desperately trying to burn my cult of the new membership card and go more in to depth with the games I have (while also trying to prune & curate the collection down to a manageable size). I'd like to go back in time and tell my younger self there's something as satisfying about playing that one game ten times as there is playing those ten games one time. And both of those beat not playing those 99 other games in the collection at all. I'm still working on how best to eliminate the fear of missing out.
A majority of my closest friends are gamers. Either I met them gaming and bonded over the shared experience or I met them and discovered they were gamers. It's a strange, obsessive hobby. It was fun to see two people passionate about something get the chance to let that passion run with someone that could appreciate it. Thanks Smiths.
Two of the best board game channels spending time interviewing each other and sharing their thoughts. Fantastic! Listened to the entire thing while painting terrain and enjoyed every minute.
Gosh, a thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and honestly found a lot of inspiration from it. I'm a game design student at university, and everything Quins and Rodney discussed in terms of the growth of their passion over board gaming for the past decade really hit home. It reminded me so much of my path falling in love with video games, and I just wanted to say thank you for caring so vibrantly and colorfully about this medium in front of us. Have a good one boys 👍
You’re both too hard on yourselves for the early stuff. I’ve enjoyed it since the beginning, and both channels (as well as The Dice Tower) were a big reason I (re)found a love of board games.
Great interview!
Two of my favourite channels. When I first got into the hobby a few years ago I picked up Dead of Winter on a whim. I remember opening the box and being overwhelmed until I googled “how to play dead of winter”- I found one of Rodney’s videos and I was just so impressed. From there I found SUSD and love their style. Well done all!
An hour after they took their beards off, I was so engaged in their discussion that I forgot about the beard gag and thought Quintin had the hairiest chest I have ever seen.
These two have been instrumental in building my board game collection and my love of the hobby. SU&SD introduces me to amazing games and amazing experiences, and Rodney teaches me how to play them, and gives me the confidence to teach my friends to play them. I love these guys, and seeing them on screen together is delight.
I'm really glad that Quins didn't let Rodney talk over him. I know Rodney doesn't do it on purpose. He's an incredibly nice person and I know he's just excited to talk about his favorite thing, but all too often people will carelessly trample on another person's story and Quins handled it absolutely perfectly. Really nice dynamic here.
There are several conversation styles but two that really contrast together. One is where someone grew up waiting for someone to finish speaking completely before saying anything, and they show engagement by quietly listening. Another style is to show engagement by chiming in on top when something really connects and the person relates. Families like that tend to have a lot of people talking at once and interrupting often, but that's how they show engagement in the conversation.
I'm 30min in, and I feel like Quintin talked 90% of the time :D
Great chat! Big respect for what both of you do for the board game industry. Watch it played is not usually my go to channel when it comes to learning how to play new games but what Rodney mentioned about correcting the rulebook happened once to me. I watched one of his videos and commented that a rule was different from the rulebook and he kindly replied saying that he reached out to the publisher and the rulebook was wrong. Solid work! That definitely makes his channel the most reliable one on TH-cam
I absolutely adore that the speed both Smith's are talking at gets progressively quicker as the interview develops. Motorboating 101
I watched the first 20 minutes, but am saving the rest for when I need my spirits lifted. This was so utterly wonderful!
When I was just getting into hobby games I bought Mice and Mystics to play with my young children. It was like jumping into the deep end of the tidal wave pool 😮 I ended up literally in tears trying to work out how to play this game that relied on so many concepts I had never heard of before and didn't explain any of them!
I ended up finding Rodney's video and after watching it, later that same day my kids and I played through the first chapter and had a ton of fun. Without Rodney I would have been so discouraged I may have given up entirely on playing anything more complicated than Forbidden Island.
Rodney provides something to the board game world that no one else does....he opens the door and says "come on in, let me introduce you to everyone and break the ice for you all night". Rodney, you are a gem.
Of course I love watching SU&SD too, for pure board game entertainment and game reviews on games I don't see discussed much elsewhere.
Great discussion guys. 👍
It was so nice to see a conversation between the channel showing me which boarding I will likely enjoy and the one teaching me to play it. Thanks to both of you !
These two guys here are what got me into the hobby! Fantastic convo!! Rodney’s original play through of Mansions of Madness 1st edition introduced me to the Lovecraft universe.
I love listening to the two of you talk about what you're passionate about. As someone just starting in the world of board game videos it's hard not to copy what you two do because it is so great. Thanks for doing what you do
Congratulations on 10 years! I started into Modern board gaming about that long ago. I remember watching your videos, trying to figure this whole thing out. When I found out you were also Canadian, my heart just filled with pride. I am also one of those people who really doesn’t have anyone to play with. I got in with a group and a year later COVID hit. My two teenage boys are pretty good to play with but they love going back to their favourites, like Star Realms and Zombicide, but slowly we are playing more games. Thank you for all you have done for the hobby Rodney. Without you, many of us would have given up and stopped playing and stopped buying! Cheers to another 10 years!
Late to the game here folks. I adored watching a video between 2 creators who have such a radically different approach but such a common love of the hobby. I will say, however, if you watch this video, you will eventually realize that Rodney Smith is the kindest Vampire ever to walk in our realm. Thanks guys!
So glad I picked up my iPad tonight and found this. Two of my favorite channels and creators together.
I just want to thank both of you for what you do for the hobby. Know that it IS very much appreciated. I can guarantee that many, many more feel the same way, though not everyone will tell you. It's similar to the 20/80 rule but different: while 20% will complain about something 80% of the time, of the 80% that are happy, up to 2% will let you know this. Just keep being you and people will watch (and love) what you (both) do.
“ when all are caring about the journey” ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The niceness of both these gentlemen shines through this and both their channels.
Yo I love how the affects of their careers come through in how they carry a conversation.
Quinns: *longwinded yet articulate emotions oriented response*
Rodney: *direct responses with specific examples building to finish*
Love both these guys!
I've been waiting for this since Matt called Rodney to teach him chess.
It's really interesting what Quinns and Rodney say around 17:30 about the joy of discovering new games. I didn't really play board games much until around late 2018, but I watched SU&SD for over 5 years already because I loved learning about these new games, and their design.
This is the kind of videos to watch when you are a little down or sad, I'll remind me to come back if that's the case, because this two guys irradiate mental health and good feelings.
Such a lovely conversation. I am so grateful to be in this hobby for the welcoming friendly people and joy it brings. I can really related to the outsider sentiment you both had. I honestly believe that finding the hobby and others guys like me during my teens (in the 90s) saved me from jail or worse.
Thanks so much for this video. I have a board game channel, but I've had a real tough time of it lately (personal stuff) and been really down. Although my passion for board games wasn't diminished, my desire to work on the channel wasn't there any more as I've been constantly sad and apathetic. Watching you two and hearing you speak about how much you love what you do and why you do it really helped pull me out of that pit. It was a really inspiring video that just shook me out of my slump and energized me. Soon as I finished watching I just felt that drive again for the first time in weeks. Thanks again!
That was brilliant! A Brit and a Canadian having a conversation, "You"..."No, you"..."No, you"..."No, you". 🤣
I’ll credit both of these people, in part with my interest in the hobby. Specifically, I had heard about Rodney’s channel through a random board game podcast I was curious about. One of his videos I stumbled across was his guide to Splendor. After watching it, I thought, “this looks cool,” and looked up some more info on the game. SUSD’s review of Splendor and Machi Koro came up right away, and I was hooked!
I discovered Rodney's channel when trying to put together the rules for Brass: Birmingham, which is a game possibly introduced to me by SUSD. Thank you both for giving me enjoyable and useful content that has helped me explore my passion for the beegees.
This was such a treat to watch over the holidays. I can't think of 2 better people to be ambassadors in the board-gaming community. Each is so eloquent about the hobby and provide such useful and entertaining content. This was honestly something to look forward to for me over the holidays and I'm happy that you shared it. I sincerely hope to see more cross-overs with your channels.
This conversation is so good I've listened to it more than once. How is that possible? Absolutely great content perfect for the holiday season. Cheers gentlemen!
That was a really fascinating co-interview. So many little aha moments for me.
Quinns - I've purchased and not purchased so many games based on your site's reviews. Not necessarily because you loved them or didn't but because you have me enough insight to know with a fair amount of confidence that I would probably like it not like the game.
Rodney - we have an annual gaming weekend which sees well over 100 games brought away for 3 days of gaming. I have a spreadsheet of all the games with tutorial links for medium to heavy weight games of which a good two thirds feature you - so thank you as this makes running these weekends so much easier.
This was an absolutely amazing conversation. Thank you both for sharing it with us, and for everything you've both done to make the hobby better and more joyful for the last 10 years.
Wonderful. Just wonderful. Beaut to hear a slightly extended chat between two people passionate about their (& my) topic.
My 2 favorite board game channels, I hope to see more of this crossover.
How many people wanted to be a part of this conversation?
Raises hand super high!
Geeking out and sharing the love of our hobby…. Priceless.
Tricking someone into complimenting their past self is the nicest flex I have ever seen. Super fun conversation.
My two favourite people in the industry. Loved every second!
Agreed. Both have different styles, but both legends
What a great video. Rodney, you are that friend! My brother and I played Terraforming Mars for the first time yesterday and we had your video on it paused in the background, ready to answer any questions we had. It made our game way more fun!
Thank you two for the talk. It's beautiful when you see two people sharing the same love that you have for friendship, being together and, of course, boardgames.
Wish you the best and keep counting with my views on both channels (I'm one of the numbers 😉).
Simão
I did not plan on watching this whole thing in one go and did anyway and find myself wishing it was ten times as long. This was immensely enjoyable. Rodney lovable as ever and Quinns is a fantastic interviewer.
I love that moment when I see the group get into it. I'm pretty new to this and I'm the board game guy. And I'll admit I have a lot of anxiety before I set out the game or go through the teach, but that moment where there is like this buy-in from the group really gets me.
I love this hobby. I love the games from a design point of view. Like how can some person across the world get me and my friends care so much about their specific cardboards and follow their rules and all that.
Thank you to both Smiths (among others) for guiding me through this
A true collision of brilliance and banter. I loved every moment of this vulnerable conversations between friends.
Can we make this a sweepstakes or a charity event??? Sitting down with both Quintin & Rodney for a day full of playing board games.
As someone who does genuinely love teaching people games, that little anecdote Quinns told about the Vlaada rulebook and the dragon foodfight thing makes so much sense to me in a way I honestly never even noticed, because that's exactly what I do. Fun little jokes and the inherent ridiculousness in some of the rules and constructing a little image or story around them is really important to not just entertaining people during The Teach, but also helping them to remember it.
Love you both, could listen to you two talk all day.
I rarely comment on videos.. Just wanted to say thank you so much to you both (and the teams, old and new) for guiding me into and through a hobby which I love and is definately my happy place. Happy Christmas to you all. Wishing you an awesome/inspiring new year.❤️
Great Video ! Love what you do and how do you do it booth. Looking forward to Smith & Smith Part II
This is one of the most wholesome videos on TH-cam.
Great episode. Lots of great content from both teams, but this is one of the most interesting things I’ve heard either team do, providing the “meta” perspective. And clearly these two work well together. I would suggest they continue this as a monthly podcast/video and keep the conversation going.
Literally the first time when I have heard someone summarize maybe the real reward was the friends we met along the way and be sincere. Rodney won me over as a person on that last question. I was on the fence. Quinns, keep being kind, enthusiastic, and insightful. Wish both channels and teams all the luck.
This is such an amazing conversation! Rodney taught me my first heavier game which was Zombicide, and Quinns introduced me to a whole new world of board games, and taught me that big plastic miniatures do NOT always equal fun.
The final conversation piece is so appreciated. Thanks for the amazing work gentlemen, you’re both awesome and I hope you have a wonderful holiday
I'm really, really happy you decided to join each other in this, from the heart kind of video! I love your content and hope you you continue doing it for long time! ❤
Guys I respect you a lot. Keep it up. Thanks for all you have done! :-)
You two people are amazing! I love both your channels and watch them a lot! Keep up the great work!
Rodney & Quinns, two legends just reminiscing. You two are wonderful. Thank you for all the excellent content.
Your chemistry is awesome guys! Loved this so much, can really feel the passion for the hobby and you just have such a great and informed chat.
Thank you for sharing your experiences, I relate to so much of this from my work, and found what you shared inspiring.
I can't imagine I really shut up and sit down and completely immersed myself in this video from start to end. Great video!
Thank you Gents! You guys are the best!
Absolutely love this! So wonderful to hear two people that I've watched for so long have a chat about everything I love about gaming.