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.