Spiel des Jahres - beyond the Red Pawn (Topic Discussion)

Spiel des Jahres - beyond the Red Pawn (Topic Discussion)

Author: Tabletop Games Blog June 23, 2026 Duration: 8:12

For many people, Spiel des Jahres is something they encounter only once a year. A list of nominees appears, winners are announced, and the familiar Red Pawn finds its way onto board game boxes that in turn appear on shop shelves. Yet, the award itself is only the most visible part of the organisation's work. Behind the annual announcements sits an association that funds projects, supports research, encourages new designers, and promotes the social value of play. In this third article in the series, I want to look at those activities that reveal a side of Spiel des Jahres that is often overlooked, particularly outside German-speaking countries, where the organisation is frequently seen only as a prestigious board game award.

Read the full article here: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2026/06/23/spiel-des-jahres-beyond-the-red-pawn-topic-discussion/

Useful Links


Music

Intro Music: Bomber (Sting) by Riot (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/audiolibrary/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

Music: Relaxing Lofi – Tricosa
Produced by Sascha Ende
Link: https://ende.app/en/song/13607-relaxing-lofi-tricosa

Music: Relaxing Lofi – Icosa
Produced by Sascha Ende
Link: https://ende.app/en/song/13604-relaxing-lofi-icosa

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(Photo courtesy of Spiel des Jahres)


Dive into the world of modern board gaming with the Tabletop Games Blog-board game reviews and discussions with a personal touch. This isn't a formal critique from afar; it's a conversation at the table. Each episode unpacks a specific game, whether it's a brain-burning strategy title, a clever indie gem, or a chaotic party favourite that gets everyone laughing. The discussion goes beyond simple rules explanations to consider how a game feels to play, the artistry of its components and table presence, and the unique experiences it creates around the table. Since starting in 2018, the podcast has built a library covering everything from dexterity challenges and card games to expansive hobby board games, always with an accessible, personal perspective. The focus is on genuine insight over a rigid schedule, so from 2025 onwards, episodes arrive when they're fully ready, ensuring every review and thought piece is thoughtful and complete. It’s crafted for players of all types, from those just discovering modern games to seasoned enthusiasts looking for their next favourite. You'll find honest reflections on gameplay and design, making this podcast a reliable companion for deciding what to bring to your next game night.
Author: Language: en-gb Episodes: 50

Tabletop Games Blog - board game reviews and discussions with a personal touch
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