Just a quick note, I'm sorry but this is a Ra-less episode.

Indeed. I'm sorry about that, it seems somehow indecent.

Another great episode.

One question: Since Mayfair makes so much of their money on importing games from Europe, could this price fixing be used against them by their competition? For instance when a new game (that looks like it's going to be a real winner) comes out in Germany, couldn't Z-Man or Rio Grande emphasize with the designer and original publisher that they are going to make the game more popular by not being selective in their selling process? It just seems like Mayfair has really put themselves out on an island to stand up for what they think is right.

One comment: A few months ago a game store moved into my area. This has been a real treat for me because, until now, I basically couldn't see and feel these games live and in person until I made the online purchase. It has made me purchase games I never even considered because of the prospect of instant gratification and no shipping fees. Also, I have family members who are amazingly reluctant to shop online (especially the older ones.) This game shop has given me a physical location that I can recommend for them. The result is that I have probably been one of the game shops best customers, and I have received a lot more quality games.

I don't know what you are talking about! My review was all about

"A-grick-o-Ra!"

Oh, come on! I don't drink Coca-Co-RA!

But maybe you should.

Mmmm, that's good deity!


(Insert culturally insensitive remark here about Japanese soda.)

I prefer Doc-Thor Pepper for that. Electrically good taste worthy of thunderous applause.

Thanks!


With this announcement it is likely that Mayfair products will be carried more broadly at many FLGS. Because most game buyers don't know jack about gaming news it is unlikely that most customers wont even notice a change in Mayfair pricing. (Even if it does cost them a few sales to board game news hounds.) BGG users and podcast listeners are better informed than most board gamers.

As far as costing them when importing products, I understand that in some countries this policy is not as much of a shock as it is here. Additionally Mayfair has a proven track record at getting quality games to market, and have developed strong relationships with several key designers and foreign game companies. In other words, I suspect the decision wont cost Mayfair in the way you propose. Who knows? they may prefer to do business with Mayfair because of this policy.

It is possible that this policy will cost them some opportunities with US game designers, but I suspect that most talented designers would still be interested in having Mayfair bring their game to market, should the game fit well into Mayfair's product portfolio.

Erik may have a better answer though.



Wow, sounds like a success story. I wish all FLGS relationships blossomed so well but, as mentioned in the podcast, some stores actually encourage people not to shop there.

Dear Blooper Reel,
I took you for granted, and now you left without even a note. I was foolish. I miss you. Come back.

I enjoyed the new guest host though.

I had no idea if people really liked them or they were a waste of bandwidth. How does everyone else feel about them? If they are missed I'll make the time to add them in in the future, when there is material.

Oh, I may have some un-played bloopers from old episodes, should I toss them or work them in to future blooper reels?



New guest host? There was just Scott, Erik, and myself, the normal three of us. Though we would certainly be happy to have guest hosts.

I liked 'em. I think they're worth it. I was quietly hoping there just wasn't material this time and that it'd definitely be back.

Arathorn

Maybe he means the intro voice.