Keywords
Tabletop gaming, gaming log, sports games, game sessions, board games, tabletop sports, gaming community, game reviews, gaming projects, gaming insights
Summary
In this episode of the Tabletop Sportcast, host James Cast reflects on his gaming journey, celebrating the completion of his 3,000th gaming session. He discusses recent gaming experiences, highlights from the World Series, and upcoming projects. The episode also covers new game releases and innovations in the tabletop gaming community. James shares insights into his gaming log, detailing the top games that have shaped his experience and future aspirations in the hobby.
Takeaways
Tracking gaming sessions enhances engagement and enjoyment.
The World Series showcased remarkable performances and memorable moments.
New game releases continue to innovate the tabletop gaming experience.
Balancing gaming with family and work commitments is essential.
Express games allow for quicker play and more frequent sessions.
Historical games provide a deeper connection to past sports events.
Community involvement in gaming projects enriches the experience.
Diverse genres in gaming keep the hobby fresh and exciting.
Setting goals for gaming sessions can lead to greater achievements.
The journey of gaming is ongoing, with future milestones to reach.
Titles
Celebrating 3,000 Gaming Sessions
Reflections on Recent Gaming Adventures
Sound bites
"I completed my 3,000th gaming session."
"Had a lot of fun with it."
"I think it's an outstanding game."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Gaming Journey
03:29 Reflections on Recent Gaming Sessions
06:20 World Series Highlights and Insights
09:33 Seasonal Gaming Plans and Strategies
12:27 New Game Releases and Innovations
17:11 The Road to 3000 Gaming Sessions
24:44 Top Games That Shaped the Journey
26:16 Dominance of History Maker Baseball
28:30 Fast Drive Football: The Express Game
31:47 History Maker Golf: A Versatile Experience
34:54 Hockey Blast: A Favorite Full Play Game
37:08 Grid Zone: Embracing Fictional Sports
38:36 Second Season Express: A Football Classic
40:38 Soccer Blast: A Unique Soccer Experience
42:42 Legends of Boxing: The Best Boxing Game
45:36 The Road to 3000: Future Gaming Goals
52:33 NEWCHAPTER
Keywords
American Grid Zone League, AGL, tabletop sports, season recap, game expansion, player statistics, sports simulation, tabletop gaming, league structure, sports history
Summary
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast provides an in-depth look at the American Grid Zone League's fourth season, discussing the league's history, structure, and the recent expansion to 12 teams. He highlights key performances, records set during the season, and outlines plans for the upcoming offseason, including player movements and potential changes to the league's structure. The episode serves as a comprehensive recap of the season and a look ahead to future developments in the league.
Takeaways
The American Grid Zone League has expanded to 12 teams.
Season four introduced a Champions League and a National League.
Denver won the Champions League with a strong performance.
Orlando claimed the AGL Cup, marking their second championship.
Player statistics were tracked closely, with new league records set.
The league operates without salary caps, allowing for player movement.
Offseason plans include a draft and potential player retirements.
The league aims to mimic real-life sports structures for authenticity.
Player ratings impact team compositions and league dynamics.
The host enjoys the ongoing development of the league and its players.
Titles
Inside the AGL Yearbook: Season Four Recap
The Evolution of the American Grid Zone League
Sound bites
"This is episode 227."
"It's been a fun league."
"Thanks for listening."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the AGL Yearbook
05:28 Weekly Highlights and Game Updates
12:44 Overview of the American Grid Zone League
19:50 Season Four Expansion and Structure
26:42 Season Four Performance and Records
36:54 Offseason Plans and Future Prospects
40:43 Conclusion and Wrap-Up
45:52 NEWCHAPTER
Links
3d6 Gaming on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582729880611
Fight Card Boxing: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fightcardboxing
Greenfox Spreadsheet Overview (Part 1 of 3): https://youtu.be/S8tGSjnCvsY?si=Z28NH_-OrOShTpVs
49 QD Hockey 2025-26 NHL In-Season Set: https://www.49sportsgames.com/products/nhl-2024-25-in-season-play-along-pdf
Keywords
tabletop sports, historical replays, Sports Sim Magazine, American Grid Zone League, tabletop gaming, sports history, replay games, sports simulation, podcast, gaming community
Summary
In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast discusses his approach to building a list of historical replays for 2026, reflecting on past projects and the evolution of his tabletop gaming experience. He also provides an overview of Sports Sim Magazine's latest issue, highlighting key articles and contributions from the community. The episode emphasizes the importance of planning and adapting strategies for future gaming projects, while engaging with the tabletop sports community.
Takeaways
James Cast shares his annual process for creating a historical replays list.
The importance of adapting past strategies for future projects is emphasized.
Sports Sim Magazine's Issue 21 features various articles and free games.
Community contributions play a significant role in the magazine's content.
James reflects on the highlights of his American Grid Zone League season.
He discusses the significance of firsts, lasts, and underdog stories in sports history.
Planning for 2026 involves a focus on diverse sports events.
James aims to include a mix of games in his historical replays.
The podcast encourages listener engagement through social media and email.
Future episodes will delve deeper into specific projects and gaming strategies.
Titles
Exploring Historical Replays in Tabletop Sports
Inside Sports Sim Magazine: Issue 21 Overview
Sound bites
"Norfolk wins 45-38 to the final."
"I recapped my 1980 PGA Grand Slam."
"He has offered his nail biter football."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Historical Replays
10:46 Overview of Sports Sim Magazine Issue 21
19:09 Planning for 2026 Historical Replays
41:03 Wrap-Up and Future Plans
43:30 NEWCHAPTER
Keywords
Tabletop Sports, Q3 Retrospective, Audience Growth, Game Projects, Sports Games, Podcasting, Tabletop Gaming, Game Design, Community Engagement, Q4 Plans
Summary
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast reflects on the third quarter of 2025, discussing audience growth, engagement metrics, and various tabletop gaming projects. He highlights significant projects undertaken during Q3, including a boxing project focused on the 1940s, a PGA Grand Slam replay, and a Major League Baseball tournament. The episode also covers new games explored during the quarter and concludes with a look ahead to plans for Q4, including ongoing projects and upcoming tournaments.
Takeaways
The Facebook page has seen a 95% increase in views.
The podcast has reached 55,438 downloads all time.
Engagement on Patreon has increased with 46 total members.
The 1940s boxing project included 25 championship fights.
The 1980 PGA Grand Slam project replicated historical outcomes.
The 1981 MLB tournament concluded with the Yankees winning.
New games explored included On Deck Baseball and Tecmo Bowl.
The podcast continues to grow with more interviews planned.
Community engagement is crucial for podcast growth.
Future projects include a 2011 NFL tournament and a 1993-94 Rangers playoff replay.
Titles
Quarterly Retrospective: Q3 Highlights and Insights
Exploring Tabletop Sports: Q3 Review and Future Plans
Sound bites
"The Rangers are up 2-0 in that series."
"I think it was just luck of the draw."
"Looking ahead, still more projects on the horizon."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview of Q3
13:22 Quarterly Retrospective: By the Numbers
21:14 Project Highlights from Q3
38:17 New Games Explored in Q3
39:44 Podcast Highlights and Upcoming Plans
47:43 Conclusion and Looking Ahead to Q4
50:15 NEWCHAPTER
Keywords
Tabletop Sports, Game Design, Powder Blue Sports, John Turnbull, Drive Time Football, Baseline Basketball, Red Ice Hockey, Quick Play Games, Sports Simulation, Community Engagement
Takeaways
John Turnbull shares his journey into tabletop sports.
The importance of simplicity in game design.
Quick play games cater to time-constrained players.
Community feedback is vital for game development.
The balance between realism and playability in sports games.
John's games focus on delivering a fun experience first.
The evolution of game mechanics over time.
Engaging with the community enhances game design.
Future projects include baseball and boxing games.
The significance of nostalgia in sports gaming.
Summary
In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast interviews John Turnbull, the creator of Powder Blue Sports. They discuss John's journey into tabletop sports, his design philosophy, and the games he has created, including Drive Time Football, Baseline Basketball, and Red Ice Hockey. John shares insights into the challenges of game design, the importance of community feedback, and his future projects, including a baseball game and a boxing game. The conversation highlights the significance of simplicity and engagement in creating enjoyable tabletop sports experiences.
Titles
Exploring the World of Tabletop Sports
John Turnbull: The Mind Behind Powder Blue Sports
Sound bites
"I want to make things as simple as possible."
"My games are free to download."
"I do it for others and not myself."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to John Turnbull and Powder Blue Sports
05:52 John's Journey into Tabletop Sports
17:40 The Evolution of Game Design
23:30 Designing Quick Play Games
30:05 Challenges in Basketball Game Design
36:01 Creating Red Ice Hockey
42:06 Community Engagement in Game Design
45:20 Design Goals and Game Mechanics
45:44 Season Availability and Future Plans
48:01 Adapting Games for Different Sports
50:20 Community Feedback and Personal Stories
51:24 Game Mechanics and Player Interaction
53:51 Favorite Game Mechanics
56:55 Origins of Powder Blue Sports
58:25 Future Developments in Game Design
01:01:17 Exploring New Sports and Game Concepts
01:05:19 Personal Favorites and Historical Seasons
01:10:11 Upcoming Projects and Community Involvement
01:16:04 NEWCHAPTER
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast provides an engaging overview of the latest tabletop gaming news, highlights from his recent gaming experiences, and a detailed review of the newly released Tecmo Bowl by Buffalo Games. The conversation covers various aspects of the game, including its nostalgic elements, gameplay mechanics, and overall appeal to both new and veteran gamers. James also shares insights from his ongoing tabletop projects, including baseball and boxing simulations, and discusses the importance of community engagement in the gaming world.
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast explores the world of non-sports games, reflecting on his experiences at the Iowa 80 Truck Stop and discussing the growth of non-sports games within the tabletop community. He shares his personal gaming journey, the evolution of board games, and the balance between sports and non-sports games.
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast shares updates on his game creation journey, discussing various tabletop games he is designing, including The Bannister Mile, Track the Pack, Calcio, Endure, and Foils. He reflects on the challenges of game design, the importance of playtesting, and the use of AI tools in the creative process.
In this special anniversary episode of the Tabletop SportCast, the host reflects on four years of podcasting, sharing insights from various guests about their experiences in the tabletop sports community. The conversation covers themes of community engagement, the challenges and joys of game design, and the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere in the hobby. Guests share their projects, innovations in game mechanics, and the significance of conventions in fostering connections among tabletop enthusiasts. The discussion also touches on the joy of exploring different sports games, the significance of statistics, and the personal stories that emerge from gaming. Throughout the conversation, the camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for tabletop sports shine through, making it a rich and informative experience for listeners.
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast reviews the top 10 articles from Sports Sim Magazine, incorporating audience feedback and personal insights. The discussion highlights the importance of community engagement in tabletop gaming and acknowledges the contributions of various writers. The episode wraps up with reflections on the impact of Sports Sim Magazine and a preview of future episodes.
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast sits down with Joe Cards, a passionate member of the tabletop gaming community. They discuss Joe's early experiences with sports games, the formation of the Staten Island Cards and Dice Club, and the dynamics of organizing gaming sessions. Joe shares insights on the importance of community engagement, his excitement for upcoming events like Gridiron Games, and his favorite tabletop games. The conversation highlights the joy of gaming, the camaraderie among players, and the diverse experiences within the tabletop sports community. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into their shared passion for sports gaming, discussing their experiences with Hall of Fame visits, future gaming events, and the excitement of co-op gaming projects. They reflect on nostalgic replays of classic seasons, share their gaming wishlists, and explore the evolution of sports gaming. The conversation highlights the importance of community support and the joy of discovering new games while reminiscing about past favorites.
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast sits down with Arthur Franz, co-creator of Breakaway Football, to discuss the game's development, mechanics, and the upcoming Gridiron Games 2025. They explore the complexities of different teams, coaching strategies, and the historical context that shapes the gameplay. The conversation highlights the importance of community feedback in the game's evolution and the exciting future of Breakaway Football. In this conversation, Arthur Franz discusses the intricacies of team dynamics in Breakaway Football, highlighting beginner-friendly teams and the complexity of others. He shares insights from the ongoing tournament, emphasizing the importance of commitment and narrative in gameplay. Strategies that players often overlook are explored, along with the benefits of solo play versus head-to-head competition. The conversation also touches on the upcoming Gridiron Games 2025 and future developments for Breakaway Football, including new teams and game modes.
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast discusses the '30 Minutes a Night Plan,' a strategy designed to help hobbyists make consistent progress on their projects. The conversation covers the benefits of dedicating just 30 minutes each night to gaming or related activities, emphasizing the importance of habit formation and mindset shifts. James also addresses common challenges and naysayer concerns, providing practical tips for overcoming obstacles and maximizing productivity. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to embrace this approach and share their experiences.
In this week's episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast sits down to discuss the classic Sports Illustrated game Decathlon with Tom McHugh. In addition to discussing the original game, the two discuss the Centennial Edition rules created by Tom, and shared in various issues of Sport Sim Magazine. Tom has created additional charts for Decathletes and Heptathletes for use with his game.
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast delves into the world of sports board games with a countdown of the top 10 out-of-print sports board games. James shares his personal wish list, highlighting games that are rare finds and discussing their unique features and historical significance. From golf to hockey, and even wrestling, this episode is a nostalgic journey through games that have left a lasting impact on the tabletop sports community. Tune in to discover which games made the list and why they hold a special place in the hearts of sports gaming enthusiasts.
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast dives into the thrilling world of "Heroes of Short Track Racing" by Van's Games. Discover the intricate game mechanics that capture the essence of short track racing, from qualifying rounds to intense lap-by-lap action. James shares his firsthand experience with the game's high-quality components and optional rules that add depth and narrative to each race. Whether you're a seasoned tabletop gamer or new to the scene, this episode offers valuable insights and a comprehensive review of this collectible card racing game. Tune in to learn how you can create your own fictional racing world and enjoy the excitement of short track racing on your tabletop.Van's Games Website
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast reflects on the second quarter of 2025, discussing various gaming events, podcast metrics, and personal gaming sessions. He highlights successes in completing gaming sessions and engaging with the community, while also addressing challenges faced, particularly in content creation for YouTube and historical replays. Looking ahead, James outlines plans for the third quarter, emphasizing the importance of scheduling and focusing on new games.
In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast shares his experiences and insights from Plaay-Dot-Con 2025, emphasizing the importance of community, connections, and the joy of gaming. He discusses the highlights of the event, including the beautiful setting of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, the showcasing of his game development projects, and engaging with fellow game designers. The episode also covers day-by-day highlights of the convention, including social events and a panel discussion on social media in the gaming community.
Check out this link to see what Calcio Storico is all about.
In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast discusses his favorite Facebook groups related to sports gaming. He shares insights on various groups, their membership, and the community dynamics within the tabletop sports gaming world. The conversation also touches on the upcoming Plaay-Dot-Con event and the importance of community engagement in promoting sports games.
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast discusses beginner projects in tabletop gaming, offering insights on how to effectively plan and execute these projects. He emphasizes the importance of starting small, setting realistic goals, and choosing games that players love. The episode also includes a recap of current tabletop projects and provides various project ideas suitable for beginners, such as replaying championship series and holding small tournaments. James encourages listeners to track their progress and maintain motivation throughout their gaming endeavors.
