Game Theory

It's the Stupid Economy

It's the Stupid Economy

It is impossible not to think about the economy right now. The tariffs and trade wars are the hot topic in the board game world and something we here at Cherry Picked Games are extremely aware of, given the imminent manufacturing of Far Away: Corporate Espionage. But those fees are a single (large) cost in a long and pricey process. There are so many other market considerations that go beyond pure production prices. Inspired by Carla Lalli Music’s excellent Substack piece on the true costs of YouTube videos, I want to share the other real financial concerns I have running a board game business: externalities, inflation, and labor.

How to be a Helpful Playtester

How to be a Helpful Playtester

We’re hard at work testing all the missions in Far Away: Corporate Espionage. Whether it’s our local fans testing with cards from my printer or our excellent community testing the demo PNP, we need all eyes on the game to make sure it lives up to the promises of the crowdfunding campaign. Recently, I’ve found myself conscripting people who haven’t playtested a board game before. While the raw experience is most important, I can’t help but to think of some guidance for these people to get and give the most during the tests. Here are a few tips for anyone playtesting a game that ensure everyone walks away feeling great.

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The Crowdfunding Paradox

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The Crowdfunding Paradox

Did you know we’re running a crowdfunding campaign for Far Away: Corporate Espionage? Chip in today for a discounted game and opportunity to add something to the game itself.

Here is my proposed logic for the “Crowdfunding Paradox”:

  1. Crowdfunding allows niche products to find market fit.

  2. Crowdfunding sites benefit more from larger, successful projects than ones that might fail.

  3. Products with broad market fit can still use crowdfunding sites.

  4. Crowdfunding sites have no incentive to help niche products.