It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm 
interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc 
so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm 
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc 
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls 
on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd 
forgotten all about it! :-(

I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved 
over here, Ivan?

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

: Ivan Hanley wrote:
: > It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
: > interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament 
etc
: > so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

"Peter Clinch" wrote
: Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls
: on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd
: forgotten all about it! :-(

Lucky I mentioned it then :).

: I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved
: over here, Ivan?

Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
interested.

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:

> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house. 

We've not been playing Euros for quite a while while my wife had her 
final exams (and associated preparation period) and the local Go club 
set up and ran the Scottish Open Go tournie.  But all done now so we'll 
re-start hopefully soon, though I'll probably find the rest of the Team 
are on holiday and/or have forgotten who we are and what we look like... ;-/

>  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Absolutely!

seeya (someday!), Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly going 
to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular FAQ crowd from 
here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

grim.

grim wrote:

>> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm
>> certainly going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of
>> the regular FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

Well please keep an eye out for me as I'm hoping to get to know the local 
gaming crowd/scene a bit :).

Ivan.

On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>
> Ivan.

Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
where?

Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
at least!

- Derek

Ivan,

I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow? 
  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Regards,
Keith

grim wrote:
> Ivan Hanley wrote:
>> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've 
>> not been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I 
>> hope you can make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not 
>> then I'd still be interested in meeting up for a game or two at some 
>> point, if you're interested.
> 
> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly 
> going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular 
> FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.
> 
> grim.

Derek,

the "West" is because it's held in Glasgow, as opposed to "East" which 
is held in Edinburgh.

Regards,
Keith

Derek Carver wrote:
> On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
>> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
>> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
>> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>>
>> Ivan.
> 
> Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
> West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
> where?
> 
> Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
> at least!
> 
> - Derek
> 
>

Keith Jones" wrote:
: Ivan,
:
: I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow?
:  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

It's neither actually.  I met my current group through BoardGameGeek.  Some 
of them will be there tomorrow.

: Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Yes, I look forward to meeting you there too.

Ivan.

"Derek Carver" wrote:
: Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
: West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
: where?
:
: Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
: at least!

LOL apologies Derek, I should have been more specific!

Ivan.

Well, how did it go?

Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be planning 
was in July rather than August, and having just booked a holiday in 
July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around Tentsmuir forest 
doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.  Quite enjoyable, 
aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but not really a day of 
board games :-(

Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in 
the year...

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Peter Clinch wrote:
>> Well, how did it go?

It went very well!

I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:

Pillars of the Earth
Amazonas
Edel, Stein and Reich
Mystery of the Abbey
and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

Amazonas was the lame duck of the day while Mystery of the Abbey (after 
several beers) was the highlight.  I think the new Fragor game is shaping up 
brilliantly but obviously don't want to say anything else at this stage - 
see what you missed ;).

The people made the day though and it's really great to meet some of those I 
only 'see' online.

>> Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be
>> planning was in July rather than August, and having just booked a
>> holiday in July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around
>> Tentsmuir forest doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.
>> Quite enjoyable, aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but
>> not really a day of board games :-(

Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
sort :P

>> Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in
>> the year...

I hope to see you in Edinburgh later in the year then!

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
[Orineteering]
> Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
> sort :P

Oh, I don't know...  You can go as fast or slow as you like and the 
routes (if the course is planned well, my job this time around) require 
plenty of decision making to optimise your time, weighing up pros and 
cons.  So in that respect, not a million miles from a Eurogame, though 
there are direct and tangible penalties for getting caught in Analysis 
Paralysis, and table talk during the game is severely limited...

I'll grant you the pulling ticks out afterwards is an unpleasant chore 
that has no parallel in board gaming though :-(

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Peter Clinch wrote:
>>> Well, how did it go?
> 
> It went very well!

Seconded! Our small group from EDB walked away with second place in the 
Kniziathon and joint-second place in the Catan tourney.

> I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:
> Pillars of the Earth
> Amazonas
> Edel, Stein and Reich
> Mystery of the Abbey
> and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

We played - or at least, I remember playing:
Mystery of the Abbey
Escalation
Geschenkt
Ivanhoe
Merchants of Amsterdam
Santiago
Bausack (!)

Didn't get the chance to try the new Fragor, but it certainly looked intriguing.

> Amazonas was the lame duck of the day while Mystery of the Abbey (after 
> several beers) was the highlight.  I think the new Fragor game is shaping up 
> brilliantly but obviously don't want to say anything else at this stage - 
> see what you missed ;).

Unfortunately Mystery of the Abbey was a low point in my day; maybe I was 
expecting too much from it. (Also it was first-up on our table so there were 
no beers to help!) Quite a time investment for what felt like a fairly limited 
game with no great sense of achievement for the victor. Ivanhoe was another 
disappointment but less of a severe one; it's quite short so that matters less.

So Merchants of Amsterdam was my highlight, and not just because I won. I 
think this game has a lot of scope for multiple plays. It was longish, but 
unexpectedly fast-moving; I didn't feel that there was much downtime between 
turns; and I think it held all the players' interest for the duration.

I also won at Santiago but my recommendation for this is more muted. It seemed 
an unremarkable package and there's a lot of things I'd rather choose to play 
than this.

> The people made the day though and it's really great to meet some of those I 
> only 'see' online.

Yes -- I did have an eye out for you, but as it turned out I had only very 
little time left when I wasn't playing something. Perhaps at the Edinburgh one.

grim.

Peter Clinch wrote:
>> Ivan Hanley wrote:
>> [Orineteering]
>>> Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the
>>> active sort :P
>>
>> Oh, I don't know...  You can go as fast or slow as you like and the
>> routes (if the course is planned well, my job this time around)
>> require plenty of decision making to optimise your time, weighing up
>> pros and cons.  So in that respect, not a million miles from a
>> Eurogame, though there are direct and tangible penalties for getting
>> caught in Analysis Paralysis, and table talk during the game is
>> severely limited...

LOL.

>> I'll grant you the pulling ticks out afterwards is an unpleasant
>> chore that has no parallel in board gaming though :-(

Thank goodness for that!

Ivan.

grim wrote:
>> Seconded! Our small group from EDB walked away with second place in
>> the Kniziathon and joint-second place in the Catan tourney.

Good going indeed!

>> We played - or at least, I remember playing:
>> Mystery of the Abbey
>> Escalation
>> Geschenkt
>> Ivanhoe
>> Merchants of Amsterdam
>> Santiago
>> Bausack (!)

I tried Bausack last night and it's an interesting and fun game.  Oddly 
though the set pictured on boardgamegeek has two large black wedge pieces 
that were not in the set we played.

http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/62742

Maybe the pieces are different for different sets?

>> Didn't get the chance to try the new Fragor, but it certainly looked
>> intriguing.

Yeah it's really fun and plays pretty quickly too.

>> Unfortunately Mystery of the Abbey was a low point in my day; maybe
>> I was expecting too much from it. (Also it was first-up on our table
>> so there were
>> no beers to help!)

Beer is definitely a requirement.

>> Quite a time investment for what felt like a
>> fairly limited game with no great sense of achievement for the
>> victor. Ivanhoe was another disappointment but less of a severe one;
>> it's quite short so that matters less.

Agreed.  We weren't sure it was that much of a game either and I think it's 
best kept for an occasional play when in the right mood.

>> So Merchants of Amsterdam was my highlight, and not just because I
>> won. I
>> think this game has a lot of scope for multiple plays. It was
>> longish, but unexpectedly fast-moving; I didn't feel that there was
>> much downtime between turns; and I think it held all the players'
>> interest for the duration.

Yeah I've played this a few times ages ago and must play again soon.  It is 
a great game IMHO as well.

>> I also won at Santiago but my recommendation for this is more muted.
>> It seemed an unremarkable package and there's a lot of things I'd
>> rather choose to play than this.

I really like Santiago for some reason.  You're right though that it is 
pretty ordinary regarding mechanics etc but I've played it many times with 
different numbers (3/4) and groups and it always gets a good reception.

>> Yes -- I did have an eye out for you, but as it turned out I had
>> only very little time left when I wasn't playing something. Perhaps
>> at the Edinburgh one.

Indeed, same here.  The day passed so quickly and if I wasn't gaming, I was 
having lunch plus the Settlers tournament kept a lot of people busy for much 
of the day :a reason why I didn't enter this year - plus I always lose :)

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm 
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc 
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls 
on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd 
forgotten all about it! :-(

I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved 
over here, Ivan?

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

: Ivan Hanley wrote:
: > It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
: > interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament 
etc
: > so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

"Peter Clinch" wrote
: Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls
: on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd
: forgotten all about it! :-(

Lucky I mentioned it then :).

: I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved
: over here, Ivan?

Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
interested.

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:

> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house. 

We've not been playing Euros for quite a while while my wife had her 
final exams (and associated preparation period) and the local Go club 
set up and ran the Scottish Open Go tournie.  But all done now so we'll 
re-start hopefully soon, though I'll probably find the rest of the Team 
are on holiday and/or have forgotten who we are and what we look like... ;-/

>  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Absolutely!

seeya (someday!), Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly going 
to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular FAQ crowd from 
here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

grim.

grim wrote:

>> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm
>> certainly going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of
>> the regular FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

Well please keep an eye out for me as I'm hoping to get to know the local 
gaming crowd/scene a bit :).

Ivan.

On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>
> Ivan.

Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
where?

Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
at least!

- Derek

Ivan,

I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow? 
  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Regards,
Keith

grim wrote:
> Ivan Hanley wrote:
>> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've 
>> not been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I 
>> hope you can make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not 
>> then I'd still be interested in meeting up for a game or two at some 
>> point, if you're interested.
> 
> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly 
> going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular 
> FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.
> 
> grim.

Derek,

the "West" is because it's held in Glasgow, as opposed to "East" which 
is held in Edinburgh.

Regards,
Keith

Derek Carver wrote:
> On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
>> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
>> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
>> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>>
>> Ivan.
> 
> Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
> West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
> where?
> 
> Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
> at least!
> 
> - Derek
> 
>

Keith Jones" wrote:
: Ivan,
:
: I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow?
:  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

It's neither actually.  I met my current group through BoardGameGeek.  Some 
of them will be there tomorrow.

: Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Yes, I look forward to meeting you there too.

Ivan.

"Derek Carver" wrote:
: Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
: West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
: where?
:
: Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
: at least!

LOL apologies Derek, I should have been more specific!

Ivan.

Well, how did it go?

Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be planning 
was in July rather than August, and having just booked a holiday in 
July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around Tentsmuir forest 
doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.  Quite enjoyable, 
aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but not really a day of 
board games :-(

Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in 
the year...

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Peter Clinch wrote:
>> Well, how did it go?

It went very well!

I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:

Pillars of the Earth
Amazonas
Edel, Stein and Reich
Mystery of the Abbey
and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

Amazonas was the lame duck of the day while Mystery of the Abbey (after 
several beers) was the highlight.  I think the new Fragor game is shaping up 
brilliantly but obviously don't want to say anything else at this stage - 
see what you missed ;).

The people made the day though and it's really great to meet some of those I 
only 'see' online.

>> Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be
>> planning was in July rather than August, and having just booked a
>> holiday in July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around
>> Tentsmuir forest doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.
>> Quite enjoyable, aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but
>> not really a day of board games :-(

Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
sort :P

>> Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in
>> the year...

I hope to see you in Edinburgh later in the year then!

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
[Orineteering]
> Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
> sort :P

Oh, I don't know...  You can go as fast or slow as you like and the 
routes (if the course is planned well, my job this time around) require 
plenty of decision making to optimise your time, weighing up pros and 
cons.  So in that respect, not a million miles from a Eurogame, though 
there are direct and tangible penalties for getting caught in Analysis 
Paralysis, and table talk during the game is severely limited...

I'll grant you the pulling ticks out afterwards is an unpleasant chore 
that has no parallel in board gaming though :-(

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Peter Clinch wrote:
>>> Well, how did it go?
> 
> It went very well!

Seconded! Our small group from EDB walked away with second place in the 
Kniziathon and joint-second place in the Catan tourney.

> I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:
> Pillars of the Earth
> Amazonas
> Edel, Stein and Reich
> Mystery of the Abbey
> and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

We played - or at least, I remember playing:
Mystery of the Abbey
Escalation
Geschenkt
Ivanhoe
Merchants of Amsterdam
Santiago
Bausack (!)

Didn't get the chance to try the new Fragor, but it certainly looked intriguing.

> Amazonas was the lame duck of the day while Mystery of the Abbey (after 
> several beers) was the highlight.  I think the new Fragor game is shaping up 
> brilliantly but obviously don't want to say anything else at this stage - 
> see what you missed ;).

Unfortunately Mystery of the Abbey was a low point in my day; maybe I was 
expecting too much from it. (Also it was first-up on our table so there were 
no beers to help!) Quite a time investment for what felt like a fairly limited 
game with no great sense of achievement for the victor. Ivanhoe was another 
disappointment but less of a severe one; it's quite short so that matters less.

So Merchants of Amsterdam was my highlight, and not just because I won. I 
think this game has a lot of scope for multiple plays. It was longish, but 
unexpectedly fast-moving; I didn't feel that there was much downtime between 
turns; and I think it held all the players' interest for the duration.

I also won at Santiago but my recommendation for this is more muted. It seemed 
an unremarkable package and there's a lot of things I'd rather choose to play 
than this.

> The people made the day though and it's really great to meet some of those I 
> only 'see' online.

Yes -- I did have an eye out for you, but as it turned out I had only very 
little time left when I wasn't playing something. Perhaps at the Edinburgh one.

grim.

Peter Clinch wrote:
>> Ivan Hanley wrote:
>> [Orineteering]
>>> Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the
>>> active sort :P
>>
>> Oh, I don't know...  You can go as fast or slow as you like and the
>> routes (if the course is planned well, my job this time around)
>> require plenty of decision making to optimise your time, weighing up
>> pros and cons.  So in that respect, not a million miles from a
>> Eurogame, though there are direct and tangible penalties for getting
>> caught in Analysis Paralysis, and table talk during the game is
>> severely limited...

LOL.

>> I'll grant you the pulling ticks out afterwards is an unpleasant
>> chore that has no parallel in board gaming though :-(

Thank goodness for that!

Ivan.

grim wrote:
>> Seconded! Our small group from EDB walked away with second place in
>> the Kniziathon and joint-second place in the Catan tourney.

Good going indeed!

>> We played - or at least, I remember playing:
>> Mystery of the Abbey
>> Escalation
>> Geschenkt
>> Ivanhoe
>> Merchants of Amsterdam
>> Santiago
>> Bausack (!)

I tried Bausack last night and it's an interesting and fun game.  Oddly 
though the set pictured on boardgamegeek has two large black wedge pieces 
that were not in the set we played.

http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/62742

Maybe the pieces are different for different sets?

>> Didn't get the chance to try the new Fragor, but it certainly looked
>> intriguing.

Yeah it's really fun and plays pretty quickly too.

>> Unfortunately Mystery of the Abbey was a low point in my day; maybe
>> I was expecting too much from it. (Also it was first-up on our table
>> so there were
>> no beers to help!)

Beer is definitely a requirement.

>> Quite a time investment for what felt like a
>> fairly limited game with no great sense of achievement for the
>> victor. Ivanhoe was another disappointment but less of a severe one;
>> it's quite short so that matters less.

Agreed.  We weren't sure it was that much of a game either and I think it's 
best kept for an occasional play when in the right mood.

>> So Merchants of Amsterdam was my highlight, and not just because I
>> won. I
>> think this game has a lot of scope for multiple plays. It was
>> longish, but unexpectedly fast-moving; I didn't feel that there was
>> much downtime between turns; and I think it held all the players'
>> interest for the duration.

Yeah I've played this a few times ages ago and must play again soon.  It is 
a great game IMHO as well.

>> I also won at Santiago but my recommendation for this is more muted.
>> It seemed an unremarkable package and there's a lot of things I'd
>> rather choose to play than this.

I really like Santiago for some reason.  You're right though that it is 
pretty ordinary regarding mechanics etc but I've played it many times with 
different numbers (3/4) and groups and it always gets a good reception.

>> Yes -- I did have an eye out for you, but as it turned out I had
>> only very little time left when I wasn't playing something. Perhaps
>> at the Edinburgh one.

Indeed, same here.  The day passed so quickly and if I wasn't gaming, I was 
having lunch plus the Settlers tournament kept a lot of people busy for much 
of the day :a reason why I didn't enter this year - plus I always lose :)

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm 
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc 
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls 
on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd 
forgotten all about it! :-(

I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved 
over here, Ivan?

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

: Ivan Hanley wrote:
: > It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
: > interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament 
etc
: > so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

"Peter Clinch" wrote
: Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls
: on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd
: forgotten all about it! :-(

Lucky I mentioned it then :).

: I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved
: over here, Ivan?

Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
interested.

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:

> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house. 

We've not been playing Euros for quite a while while my wife had her 
final exams (and associated preparation period) and the local Go club 
set up and ran the Scottish Open Go tournie.  But all done now so we'll 
re-start hopefully soon, though I'll probably find the rest of the Team 
are on holiday and/or have forgotten who we are and what we look like... ;-/

>  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Absolutely!

seeya (someday!), Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly going 
to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular FAQ crowd from 
here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

grim.

grim wrote:

>> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm
>> certainly going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of
>> the regular FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

Well please keep an eye out for me as I'm hoping to get to know the local 
gaming crowd/scene a bit :).

Ivan.

On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>
> Ivan.

Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
where?

Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
at least!

- Derek

Ivan,

I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow? 
  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Regards,
Keith

grim wrote:
> Ivan Hanley wrote:
>> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've 
>> not been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I 
>> hope you can make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not 
>> then I'd still be interested in meeting up for a game or two at some 
>> point, if you're interested.
> 
> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly 
> going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular 
> FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.
> 
> grim.

Derek,

the "West" is because it's held in Glasgow, as opposed to "East" which 
is held in Edinburgh.

Regards,
Keith

Derek Carver wrote:
> On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
>> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
>> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
>> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>>
>> Ivan.
> 
> Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
> West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
> where?
> 
> Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
> at least!
> 
> - Derek
> 
>

Keith Jones" wrote:
: Ivan,
:
: I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow?
:  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

It's neither actually.  I met my current group through BoardGameGeek.  Some 
of them will be there tomorrow.

: Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Yes, I look forward to meeting you there too.

Ivan.

"Derek Carver" wrote:
: Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
: West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
: where?
:
: Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
: at least!

LOL apologies Derek, I should have been more specific!

Ivan.

Well, how did it go?

Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be planning 
was in July rather than August, and having just booked a holiday in 
July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around Tentsmuir forest 
doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.  Quite enjoyable, 
aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but not really a day of 
board games :-(

Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in 
the year...

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Peter Clinch wrote:
>> Well, how did it go?

It went very well!

I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:

Pillars of the Earth
Amazonas
Edel, Stein and Reich
Mystery of the Abbey
and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

Amazonas was the lame duck of the day while Mystery of the Abbey (after 
several beers) was the highlight.  I think the new Fragor game is shaping up 
brilliantly but obviously don't want to say anything else at this stage - 
see what you missed ;).

The people made the day though and it's really great to meet some of those I 
only 'see' online.

>> Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be
>> planning was in July rather than August, and having just booked a
>> holiday in July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around
>> Tentsmuir forest doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.
>> Quite enjoyable, aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but
>> not really a day of board games :-(

Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
sort :P

>> Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in
>> the year...

I hope to see you in Edinburgh later in the year then!

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
[Orineteering]
> Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
> sort :P

Oh, I don't know...  You can go as fast or slow as you like and the 
routes (if the course is planned well, my job this time around) require 
plenty of decision making to optimise your time, weighing up pros and 
cons.  So in that respect, not a million miles from a Eurogame, though 
there are direct and tangible penalties for getting caught in Analysis 
Paralysis, and table talk during the game is severely limited...

I'll grant you the pulling ticks out afterwards is an unpleasant chore 
that has no parallel in board gaming though :-(

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Peter Clinch wrote:
>>> Well, how did it go?
> 
> It went very well!

Seconded! Our small group from EDB walked away with second place in the 
Kniziathon and joint-second place in the Catan tourney.

> I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:
> Pillars of the Earth
> Amazonas
> Edel, Stein and Reich
> Mystery of the Abbey
> and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

We played - or at least, I remember playing:
Mystery of the Abbey
Escalation
Geschenkt
Ivanhoe
Merchants of Amsterdam
Santiago
Bausack (!)

Didn't get the chance to try the new Fragor, but it certainly looked intriguing.

> Amazonas was the lame duck of the day while Mystery of the Abbey (after 
> several beers) was the highlight.  I think the new Fragor game is shaping up 
> brilliantly but obviously don't want to say anything else at this stage - 
> see what you missed ;).

Unfortunately Mystery of the Abbey was a low point in my day; maybe I was 
expecting too much from it. (Also it was first-up on our table so there were 
no beers to help!) Quite a time investment for what felt like a fairly limited 
game with no great sense of achievement for the victor. Ivanhoe was another 
disappointment but less of a severe one; it's quite short so that matters less.

So Merchants of Amsterdam was my highlight, and not just because I won. I 
think this game has a lot of scope for multiple plays. It was longish, but 
unexpectedly fast-moving; I didn't feel that there was much downtime between 
turns; and I think it held all the players' interest for the duration.

I also won at Santiago but my recommendation for this is more muted. It seemed 
an unremarkable package and there's a lot of things I'd rather choose to play 
than this.

> The people made the day though and it's really great to meet some of those I 
> only 'see' online.

Yes -- I did have an eye out for you, but as it turned out I had only very 
little time left when I wasn't playing something. Perhaps at the Edinburgh one.

grim.

Peter Clinch wrote:
>> Ivan Hanley wrote:
>> [Orineteering]
>>> Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the
>>> active sort :P
>>
>> Oh, I don't know...  You can go as fast or slow as you like and the
>> routes (if the course is planned well, my job this time around)
>> require plenty of decision making to optimise your time, weighing up
>> pros and cons.  So in that respect, not a million miles from a
>> Eurogame, though there are direct and tangible penalties for getting
>> caught in Analysis Paralysis, and table talk during the game is
>> severely limited...

LOL.

>> I'll grant you the pulling ticks out afterwards is an unpleasant
>> chore that has no parallel in board gaming though :-(

Thank goodness for that!

Ivan.

grim wrote:
>> Seconded! Our small group from EDB walked away with second place in
>> the Kniziathon and joint-second place in the Catan tourney.

Good going indeed!

>> We played - or at least, I remember playing:
>> Mystery of the Abbey
>> Escalation
>> Geschenkt
>> Ivanhoe
>> Merchants of Amsterdam
>> Santiago
>> Bausack (!)

I tried Bausack last night and it's an interesting and fun game.  Oddly 
though the set pictured on boardgamegeek has two large black wedge pieces 
that were not in the set we played.

http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/62742

Maybe the pieces are different for different sets?

>> Didn't get the chance to try the new Fragor, but it certainly looked
>> intriguing.

Yeah it's really fun and plays pretty quickly too.

>> Unfortunately Mystery of the Abbey was a low point in my day; maybe
>> I was expecting too much from it. (Also it was first-up on our table
>> so there were
>> no beers to help!)

Beer is definitely a requirement.

>> Quite a time investment for what felt like a
>> fairly limited game with no great sense of achievement for the
>> victor. Ivanhoe was another disappointment but less of a severe one;
>> it's quite short so that matters less.

Agreed.  We weren't sure it was that much of a game either and I think it's 
best kept for an occasional play when in the right mood.

>> So Merchants of Amsterdam was my highlight, and not just because I
>> won. I
>> think this game has a lot of scope for multiple plays. It was
>> longish, but unexpectedly fast-moving; I didn't feel that there was
>> much downtime between turns; and I think it held all the players'
>> interest for the duration.

Yeah I've played this a few times ages ago and must play again soon.  It is 
a great game IMHO as well.

>> I also won at Santiago but my recommendation for this is more muted.
>> It seemed an unremarkable package and there's a lot of things I'd
>> rather choose to play than this.

I really like Santiago for some reason.  You're right though that it is 
pretty ordinary regarding mechanics etc but I've played it many times with 
different numbers (3/4) and groups and it always gets a good reception.

>> Yes -- I did have an eye out for you, but as it turned out I had
>> only very little time left when I wasn't playing something. Perhaps
>> at the Edinburgh one.

Indeed, same here.  The day passed so quickly and if I wasn't gaming, I was 
having lunch plus the Settlers tournament kept a lot of people busy for much 
of the day :a reason why I didn't enter this year - plus I always lose :)

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm 
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc 
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls 
on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd 
forgotten all about it! :-(

I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved 
over here, Ivan?

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

: Ivan Hanley wrote:
: > It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
: > interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament 
etc
: > so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

"Peter Clinch" wrote
: Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls
: on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd
: forgotten all about it! :-(

Lucky I mentioned it then :).

: I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved
: over here, Ivan?

Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
interested.

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:

> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house. 

We've not been playing Euros for quite a while while my wife had her 
final exams (and associated preparation period) and the local Go club 
set up and ran the Scottish Open Go tournie.  But all done now so we'll 
re-start hopefully soon, though I'll probably find the rest of the Team 
are on holiday and/or have forgotten who we are and what we look like... ;-/

>  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Absolutely!

seeya (someday!), Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly going 
to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular FAQ crowd from 
here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

grim.

grim wrote:

>> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm
>> certainly going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of
>> the regular FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

Well please keep an eye out for me as I'm hoping to get to know the local 
gaming crowd/scene a bit :).

Ivan.

On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>
> Ivan.

Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
where?

Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
at least!

- Derek

Ivan,

I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow? 
  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Regards,
Keith

grim wrote:
> Ivan Hanley wrote:
>> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've 
>> not been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I 
>> hope you can make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not 
>> then I'd still be interested in meeting up for a game or two at some 
>> point, if you're interested.
> 
> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly 
> going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular 
> FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.
> 
> grim.

Derek,

the "West" is because it's held in Glasgow, as opposed to "East" which 
is held in Edinburgh.

Regards,
Keith

Derek Carver wrote:
> On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
>> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
>> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
>> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>>
>> Ivan.
> 
> Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
> West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
> where?
> 
> Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
> at least!
> 
> - Derek
> 
>

Keith Jones" wrote:
: Ivan,
:
: I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow?
:  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

It's neither actually.  I met my current group through BoardGameGeek.  Some 
of them will be there tomorrow.

: Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Yes, I look forward to meeting you there too.

Ivan.

"Derek Carver" wrote:
: Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
: West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
: where?
:
: Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
: at least!

LOL apologies Derek, I should have been more specific!

Ivan.

Well, how did it go?

Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be planning 
was in July rather than August, and having just booked a holiday in 
July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around Tentsmuir forest 
doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.  Quite enjoyable, 
aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but not really a day of 
board games :-(

Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in 
the year...

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Peter Clinch wrote:
>> Well, how did it go?

It went very well!

I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:

Pillars of the Earth
Amazonas
Edel, Stein and Reich
Mystery of the Abbey
and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

Amazonas was the lame duck of the day while Mystery of the Abbey (after 
several beers) was the highlight.  I think the new Fragor game is shaping up 
brilliantly but obviously don't want to say anything else at this stage - 
see what you missed ;).

The people made the day though and it's really great to meet some of those I 
only 'see' online.

>> Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be
>> planning was in July rather than August, and having just booked a
>> holiday in July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around
>> Tentsmuir forest doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.
>> Quite enjoyable, aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but
>> not really a day of board games :-(

Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
sort :P

>> Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in
>> the year...

I hope to see you in Edinburgh later in the year then!

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
[Orineteering]
> Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
> sort :P

Oh, I don't know...  You can go as fast or slow as you like and the 
routes (if the course is planned well, my job this time around) require 
plenty of decision making to optimise your time, weighing up pros and 
cons.  So in that respect, not a million miles from a Eurogame, though 
there are direct and tangible penalties for getting caught in Analysis 
Paralysis, and table talk during the game is severely limited...

I'll grant you the pulling ticks out afterwards is an unpleasant chore 
that has no parallel in board gaming though :-(

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Peter Clinch wrote:
>>> Well, how did it go?
> 
> It went very well!

Seconded! Our small group from EDB walked away with second place in the 
Kniziathon and joint-second place in the Catan tourney.

> I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:
> Pillars of the Earth
> Amazonas
> Edel, Stein and Reich
> Mystery of the Abbey
> and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

We played - or at least, I remember playing:
Mystery of the Abbey
Escalation
Geschenkt
Ivanhoe
Merchants of Amsterdam
Santiago
Bausack (!)

Didn't get the chance to try the new Fragor, but it certainly looked intriguing.

> Amazonas was the lame duck of the day while Mystery of the Abbey (after 
> several beers) was the highlight.  I think the new Fragor game is shaping up 
> brilliantly but obviously don't want to say anything else at this stage - 
> see what you missed ;).

Unfortunately Mystery of the Abbey was a low point in my day; maybe I was 
expecting too much from it. (Also it was first-up on our table so there were 
no beers to help!) Quite a time investment for what felt like a fairly limited 
game with no great sense of achievement for the victor. Ivanhoe was another 
disappointment but less of a severe one; it's quite short so that matters less.

So Merchants of Amsterdam was my highlight, and not just because I won. I 
think this game has a lot of scope for multiple plays. It was longish, but 
unexpectedly fast-moving; I didn't feel that there was much downtime between 
turns; and I think it held all the players' interest for the duration.

I also won at Santiago but my recommendation for this is more muted. It seemed 
an unremarkable package and there's a lot of things I'd rather choose to play 
than this.

> The people made the day though and it's really great to meet some of those I 
> only 'see' online.

Yes -- I did have an eye out for you, but as it turned out I had only very 
little time left when I wasn't playing something. Perhaps at the Edinburgh one.

grim.

Peter Clinch wrote:
>> Ivan Hanley wrote:
>> [Orineteering]
>>> Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the
>>> active sort :P
>>
>> Oh, I don't know...  You can go as fast or slow as you like and the
>> routes (if the course is planned well, my job this time around)
>> require plenty of decision making to optimise your time, weighing up
>> pros and cons.  So in that respect, not a million miles from a
>> Eurogame, though there are direct and tangible penalties for getting
>> caught in Analysis Paralysis, and table talk during the game is
>> severely limited...

LOL.

>> I'll grant you the pulling ticks out afterwards is an unpleasant
>> chore that has no parallel in board gaming though :-(

Thank goodness for that!

Ivan.

grim wrote:
>> Seconded! Our small group from EDB walked away with second place in
>> the Kniziathon and joint-second place in the Catan tourney.

Good going indeed!

>> We played - or at least, I remember playing:
>> Mystery of the Abbey
>> Escalation
>> Geschenkt
>> Ivanhoe
>> Merchants of Amsterdam
>> Santiago
>> Bausack (!)

I tried Bausack last night and it's an interesting and fun game.  Oddly 
though the set pictured on boardgamegeek has two large black wedge pieces 
that were not in the set we played.

http://www.boardgamegeek.com/image/62742

Maybe the pieces are different for different sets?

>> Didn't get the chance to try the new Fragor, but it certainly looked
>> intriguing.

Yeah it's really fun and plays pretty quickly too.

>> Unfortunately Mystery of the Abbey was a low point in my day; maybe
>> I was expecting too much from it. (Also it was first-up on our table
>> so there were
>> no beers to help!)

Beer is definitely a requirement.

>> Quite a time investment for what felt like a
>> fairly limited game with no great sense of achievement for the
>> victor. Ivanhoe was another disappointment but less of a severe one;
>> it's quite short so that matters less.

Agreed.  We weren't sure it was that much of a game either and I think it's 
best kept for an occasional play when in the right mood.

>> So Merchants of Amsterdam was my highlight, and not just because I
>> won. I
>> think this game has a lot of scope for multiple plays. It was
>> longish, but unexpectedly fast-moving; I didn't feel that there was
>> much downtime between turns; and I think it held all the players'
>> interest for the duration.

Yeah I've played this a few times ages ago and must play again soon.  It is 
a great game IMHO as well.

>> I also won at Santiago but my recommendation for this is more muted.
>> It seemed an unremarkable package and there's a lot of things I'd
>> rather choose to play than this.

I really like Santiago for some reason.  You're right though that it is 
pretty ordinary regarding mechanics etc but I've played it many times with 
different numbers (3/4) and groups and it always gets a good reception.

>> Yes -- I did have an eye out for you, but as it turned out I had
>> only very little time left when I wasn't playing something. Perhaps
>> at the Edinburgh one.

Indeed, same here.  The day passed so quickly and if I wasn't gaming, I was 
having lunch plus the Settlers tournament kept a lot of people busy for much 
of the day :a reason why I didn't enter this year - plus I always lose :)

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm 
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc 
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls 
on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd 
forgotten all about it! :-(

I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved 
over here, Ivan?

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

: Ivan Hanley wrote:
: > It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
: > interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament 
etc
: > so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?

"Peter Clinch" wrote
: Possible, though not hugely likely, depending on quite a few other calls
: on my time.  But more likely now than a few minutes ago, as I'd
: forgotten all about it! :-(

Lucky I mentioned it then :).

: I take it you got some regular opposition sorted out since you moved
: over here, Ivan?

Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
interested.

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:

> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house. 

We've not been playing Euros for quite a while while my wife had her 
final exams (and associated preparation period) and the local Go club 
set up and ran the Scottish Open Go tournie.  But all done now so we'll 
re-start hopefully soon, though I'll probably find the rest of the Team 
are on holiday and/or have forgotten who we are and what we look like... ;-/

>  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Absolutely!

seeya (someday!), Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've not 
> been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I hope you can 
> make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not then I'd still be 
> interested in meeting up for a game or two at some point, if you're 
> interested.

Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly going 
to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular FAQ crowd from 
here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

grim.

grim wrote:

>> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm
>> certainly going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of
>> the regular FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.

Well please keep an eye out for me as I'm hoping to get to know the local 
gaming crowd/scene a bit :).

Ivan.

On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>
> Ivan.

Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
where?

Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
at least!

- Derek

Ivan,

I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow? 
  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Regards,
Keith

grim wrote:
> Ivan Hanley wrote:
>> Cheers yeah I'm gaming regularly with a great group in Glasgow.  I've 
>> not been for a few weeks though as I try to buy a house.  Anyway I 
>> hope you can make it to Dicecon this Sunday for a few games but if not 
>> then I'd still be interested in meeting up for a game or two at some 
>> point, if you're interested.
> 
> Seems I missed the first post in this thread, but anyway - I'm certainly 
> going to be at DiceCon. I think we've got 4 or 5 other of the regular 
> FAQ crowd from here in Edinburgh coming along as well.
> 
> grim.

Derek,

the "West" is because it's held in Glasgow, as opposed to "East" which 
is held in Edinburgh.

Regards,
Keith

Derek Carver wrote:
> On Jun 10, 12:45?pm, "Ivan Hanley"  wrote:
>> It's one week to Dicecon West today and I'm looking forward to it.  I'm
>> interested mainly in social gaming rather than the Settlers tournament etc
>> so who else will be there on Sun 17th June with similar intentions?
>>
>> Ivan.
> 
> Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
> West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
> where?
> 
> Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
> at least!
> 
> - Derek
> 
>

Keith Jones" wrote:
: Ivan,
:
: I'll certainly be there. Which group have you been attending in Glasgow?
:  The Ellis one or the one by the chaps from Static?

It's neither actually.  I met my current group through BoardGameGeek.  Some 
of them will be there tomorrow.

: Anyway - I look forward to meeting you there.

Yes, I look forward to meeting you there too.

Ivan.

"Derek Carver" wrote:
: Sitting here in Surrey would somebody mind telling me where Dicecon
: West is to take place.  OK - it is 'west' of someplace but west of
: where?
:
: Just curious - because I get the vibes that it is nowhere near Surrey
: at least!

LOL apologies Derek, I should have been more specific!

Ivan.

Well, how did it go?

Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be planning 
was in July rather than August, and having just booked a holiday in 
July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around Tentsmuir forest 
doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.  Quite enjoyable, 
aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but not really a day of 
board games :-(

Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in 
the year...

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Peter Clinch wrote:
>> Well, how did it go?

It went very well!

I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:

Pillars of the Earth
Amazonas
Edel, Stein and Reich
Mystery of the Abbey
and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

Amazonas was the lame duck of the day while Mystery of the Abbey (after 
several beers) was the highlight.  I think the new Fragor game is shaping up 
brilliantly but obviously don't want to say anything else at this stage - 
see what you missed ;).

The people made the day though and it's really great to meet some of those I 
only 'see' online.

>> Having realised an upcoming orienteering meet I'm meant to be
>> planning was in July rather than August, and having just booked a
>> holiday in July, I decided my day should be spent wandering around
>> Tentsmuir forest doing some of the prep work, so that's what I did.
>> Quite enjoyable, aside from pulling the ticks out afterwards, but
>> not really a day of board games :-(

Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
sort :P

>> Hope you all had fun!  Hopefully make it to the East version later in
>> the year...

I hope to see you in Edinburgh later in the year then!

Ivan.

Ivan Hanley wrote:
[Orineteering]
> Sounds like my idea of a day of torture - but I'm not known as the active 
> sort :P

Oh, I don't know...  You can go as fast or slow as you like and the 
routes (if the course is planned well, my job this time around) require 
plenty of decision making to optimise your time, weighing up pros and 
cons.  So in that respect, not a million miles from a Eurogame, though 
there are direct and tangible penalties for getting caught in Analysis 
Paralysis, and table talk during the game is severely limited...

I'll grant you the pulling ticks out afterwards is an unpleasant chore 
that has no parallel in board gaming though :-(

Pete.
-- 
Peter Clinch                    Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637   Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177              Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net p.j.clinch@dundee.ac.uk     http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Ivan Hanley wrote:
> Peter Clinch wrote:
>>> Well, how did it go?
> 
> It went very well!

Seconded! Our small group from EDB walked away with second place in the 
Kniziathon and joint-second place in the Catan tourney.

> I managed to play some games I've already forgotten plus:
> Pillars of the Earth
> Amazonas
> Edel, Stein and Reich
> Mystery of the Abbey
> and a prototype of the upcoming Fragor Essen release (twice).

We played - or at least, I remember playing:
My