The COVID-19 Pandemic has disrupted many lives. It has most likely changed what gaming activities are available to each of us. I’ve got a few ideas for some pandemic-friendly options. What Game-Related Things Can I Do Now? I’ve discussed previously about virtual gaming platforms such as Tabletopia and Tabletop Simulator. I have indeed been utilizing these services to substitute for in-person gaming. Virtual platforms are a great option when you just can't gather in person. Others have been quarantined with family members who enjoy board games. In those cases, they may have found that they are gaming more than ever during the increased time at home. Though I have been able to get my family to play a couple games with me, I have found myself looking for other options to help scratch the gaming itch. In the last couple of months, I've increased online and mobile gaming. Revisiting and playing games like Ticket To Ride Smallworld and Splendor. In addition, I’ve downloaded and tried other more typical action and role-playing games on my iPad and phone. My iPad has been at my side almost every day. If I'm not playing games, I'm watching videos, listening to podcasts, and checking out social media. Another activity I’ve found to to help satisfy my board-gaming interests is to read and learn rules and expansions. Reading rules for games I own as well as new ones I'm trying to learn on Tabletopia. I recently broke out the Warlord Box (pictured above) that I received with my second wave of shipping from the Lords of Hellas Kickstarter. I read through the Kronos expansion that for some reason I just never got around to in the past. Now I'm looking forward to when my gaming group can reconvene so that I can teach and play this one vs many variant. It can be enjoyable to discover new games and add to a existing ones by reading rules, expansions and watching how-to-play videos. My favorite resource for such videos is “Watch It Played”. Rodney Smith's how-to-play videos are simply the best. Click here to check out the Watch It Played YouTube page. I’ve also been thinking of picking up miniature painting again. Painting miniatures can be time-consuming, so what better time than now to try to get back into it? Years ago (before I wore glasses), I painted most of the figures from my Talisman (4th Edition) game. I never finished. Now might be the time to give it another go and see If my improved sight helps with enjoyment of this game hobby. It really does enhance your experience and sense of pride when you can place painted miniatures on the table. I've entertained the thought of trying out the solo mode in some of my games. I don't know what it is, but I just can't seem to get excited about it. I like the idea, but when it comes down to playing most board games, I guess I just prefer the experience of playing with/against others. The iPad and the games I play on it seem to fill the solo gaming gap. I'm content to do my solo games electronically while playing board games is an activity better experienced with others. Though, I will say... I find it very helpful to set up a game and its accessories and walkthrough the rules when first teaching myself a game. That is an experience that works well for me and adds to my understanding of the game. Final Thoughts
I'm sure many have found other game-related activities to substitute or enhance their gaming experience during the COVID-19 Pandemic. These were just a few of my suggestions and attempts to make the most of this difficult time. What have you found yourself doing differently since many states and countries have issued stay-at-home orders? As we begin to slowly and carefully venture back out into the world and connect with others, surely many things will go back to "normal". How many new processes, habits and hobbies will we retain from this experience? I know I have changed my perception of online gaming and virtual platforms. I most certainly have grown my appreciation for my gaming groups. I miss meeting with friends and playing games in person. Please leave your feedback and comments. Keep an eye for additional notes and tidbits on the King's GameNight Facebook page, and ... Game on!
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