In this episode of AP Table Talk, Brian and Dave dive deep into the timeless “rock-paper-scissors” (RPS) game mechanic. They explore its origins, its non-transitive nature, and how it shows up in everything from Magic: The Gathering to StarCraft and Skull King. From nostalgic toys like Battle Beasts to modern strategy in X-Wing Miniatures, the duo reflects on how RPS mechanics fuel tension, balance, and bluffing. Wrapping things up with a spirited pro/con debate, they explore whether RPS is genius design or just a flashy mini-game. Bonus round? Think predator-prey games and wasabi metaphors. Game on!
Read MoreIn this special End Game Mega Episode of AP Table Talk, hosts Brian and Dave Eng break down six key mechanics that define how board games conclude. They explore Elapsed Real-Time Ending, where a timer dictates the game's duration; Sudden Death Ending, where a triggering event abruptly ends play; and Finale Ending, where a mini game determines the winner. They also cover End Game Bonuses, where players earn additional points based on specific conditions, Hidden Victory Points, where scores remain secret until the end, and Highest-Lowest Scoring, where a player’s lowest category determines their final score.
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