RDTN Episode 144: Crystal Clans, Rising 5 and More Tabletop Reviews

Episode 144 puts recent tabletop plays at the center, with a mix of tactical choices, quick two-player strategy and new games from Bezier Games. The hosts also share a tutorial for Hannibal & Hamilcar and impressions of several other titles, including Rising 5. The episode’s strongest thread is how different games earn their space at the table: some through fast turns and varied factions, others through a lighter, more accessible take on familiar ideas.

Crystal Clans makes a strong first impression

Crystal Clans by Plaid Hat stands out for pairing quick play with clans that each bring their own character. The hosts especially liked the crystal used to track how much a player spends to summon an army. That visible resource gives the action a clear cost to manage, while the differences between clans offer a reason to explore the game beyond a first match.

The reviewer sees room for the game to compete for regular table time with Shadespire, particularly if additional clans and deck building broaden the choices. That enthusiasm comes with a watchful eye: the game has promise, and its longer-term appeal will depend on how well that variety develops. For now, the combination of brisk play and distinct clan identities gives the hosts a good reason to bring it back.

A lighter duel, and a longer Viking outing

Prowler’s Passage earns its recommendation through restraint. It’s a light two-player game, but the decisions still ask players to think ahead. The hosts compare it to 7 Wonders Duel, a game they already enjoy, and find Prowler’s Passage simpler. That makes it a useful option when players want a thoughtful head-to-head session without taking on as much complexity. It may not overwhelm the table, but the reviewer expects it to see repeat plays.

Raiders of the North Sea presents a different challenge. The hosts came in eager to try a game they’d heard plenty about, and found the mechanics and decisions compelling. Their session ran long, though. They suspect the group’s inexperience played a part: new players may not recognize how a particular setup can affect the pace. That’s a practical point for groups learning the game together. Knowing what to watch for as the session unfolds may help keep turns moving. Despite the lengthy first play, the hosts would happily return to it.

Bezier Games brings several demos to the table

The episode also features a visit from Bezier Games. Matt joined the hosts at Carolina Tabletop Games to walk them through several titles. The group tried an expansion for Whistle Stop, a favorite of the reviewer, along with Werebeast, One Week Ultimate Werewolf and Werewords Deluxe, which Marty counts among his favorites.

Werebeast surprised the reviewer with its hidden set collection play. Player elimination is usually a sticking point for them, but here it worked: in their five-player session, the first elimination was followed by the game ending soon afterward, so the eliminated player wasn’t left waiting long. That quick resolution matters when a game uses a mechanism that can otherwise leave someone watching from the sidelines. The episode notes that One Week Ultimate Werewolf was available through crowdfunding at the time of recording.

A tutorial and a packed play list

The hosts prepared for Hannibal & Hamilcar with a tutorial, describing the game ahead as a substantial, tactical experience they’re looking forward to. Their main concern is whether a player who takes a long time to decide might slow the session. The note captures the tradeoff they’re anticipating: a game with weighty tactical choices can be absorbing, but the pace depends partly on how quickly players work through them.

The episode’s table also included Majesty: For the Realm, Shards of Infinity and Thanos Rising, alongside discussion of a Shadespire tournament and a game night in the vineyards. The segment list gives listeners a way to jump among those topics and the show’s other recurring features. There’s also an update on contests, with the hosts directing listeners to their webpage for details, and a thank you to people who have reviewed the show.

Episode 144 segment guide

The episode opens with an introduction at 0:37 and Song Analysis at 2:43. Hannibal & Hamilcar begins at 9:07, followed by Restoration Games Celebration at 15:38 and One Star Review at 16:23. Crystal Clans starts at 26:10.

At 31:10, the show reaches its Miniature Market segment, followed by Rising 5 at 32:10 and Flying Squirrels at 37:06. Whistle Stop’s expansion and Werebeasts begin at 37:38; One Week Ultimate Werewolf and Werewords Deluxe follow at 39:33. Majesty: For the Realm and Shards of Infinity are discussed at 41:46, with the Shadespire tournament at 43:47 and Game Night in the Vineyards at 45:44. Thanos Rising starts at 47:45, Prowler’s Passage at 50:05 and Raiders of the North Sea at 56:30. International Tabletop Day begins at 1:01:37, Rehash at 1:04:02, Spoilers – The Dos and Don’ts at 1:04:56 and Portal Games at 1:08:44.

For listeners choosing where to start, Crystal Clans offers the clearest look at a game the hosts see developing over time, while Prowler’s Passage is the pick for a shorter, considered duel. Raiders of the North Sea asks for more time, but the group’s willingness to play again suggests that a slow first outing didn’t outweigh its appeal.