Jackmonkey Games and Media

Tag: tabletop gaming

  • So You Want to Start Playing Dungeons & Dragons?

    If you’ve ever dreamed of battling dragons, solving ancient puzzles, or sneaking through a castle under the moonlight, then Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) might be your perfect hobby. This legendary tabletop role-playing game (RPG) lets you become a hero in your own fantasy story—with just a pencil, some dice, and a bit of imagination.

    What Is D&D All About?

    Dungeons & Dragons is a storytelling game where you and your friends create characters and go on adventures together. One player is the Dungeon Master (DM), who acts as the storyteller and referee. The rest of the group plays as heroes—like wizards, fighters, rogues, or clerics. Together, you explore mysterious places, face monsters, and make choices that shape the story.

    You can check out the official D&D website here.

    What Do You Need to Start?

    Getting into D&D is easier than you might think! Here’s what you’ll need:

    1. The Basic Rules – You can download a free PDF of the basic rules from the D&D website.
    2. A Set of Dice – Most importantly, a 20-sided die (called a d20).
    3. Character Sheet – A simple form where you keep track of your character’s stats and gear.
    4. Friends to Play With – You’ll need a group of 3-5 players and someone willing to be the DM.

    If you prefer physical books and gear, consider checking out Lost Souls Bookshop, a great local spot for gaming supplies.

    Tips for First-Time Players

    • Don’t worry about memorizing all the rules. Focus on having fun and telling a great story.
    • Ask questions! Most D&D players love helping new adventurers learn the ropes.
    • Start with a one-shot (a short adventure) before jumping into a full campaign.

    Find a Group

    If you don’t have friends nearby who play, try joining a game online or at your local game store. You can even find D&D groups on social media or Discord servers.

    This blog post is sponsored by Lithgeek.com, your local tech experts for custom gaming pc builds and support.

  • Top 10 Cooperative Board Games for Team Players

    Top 10 Cooperative Board Games for Team Players

    Cooperative board games are the ultimate way to foster teamwork, strategy, and camaraderie. Instead of competing against each other, players band together to overcome a shared challenge—whether it’s saving the world, surviving a zombie apocalypse, or navigating a fantastical quest. Here are the top 10 co-op board games that promise endless hours of fun and strategic gameplay.

    1. Pandemic

    A modern classic, Pandemic tasks players with saving the world from deadly diseases. As members of a disease control team, you’ll work together to research cures, treat outbreaks, and prevent global chaos. It’s a must-play for fans of strategy and problem-solving.

    2. Gloomhaven

    This epic campaign game is a blend of strategy and storytelling. Players take on the roles of adventurers exploring a dark, dangerous world filled with enemies and treasure. Gloomhaven is perfect for those who enjoy long-term character development and immersive narratives.

    3. Spirit Island

    Defend your island from colonizing invaders by harnessing the power of nature. Spirit Island flips traditional colonialist themes on their head, offering a deeply strategic and thematic co-op experience.

    4. Arkham Horror: The Card Game

    Step into the eerie world of H.P. Lovecraft with this narrative-driven card game. Players investigate mysteries, battle otherworldly creatures, and struggle to maintain their sanity. Perfect for fans of horror and suspense.

    5. Forbidden Island

    In this family-friendly game, players work together to collect treasures from a sinking island. With easy-to-learn rules and quick gameplay, Forbidden Island is great for players of all ages.

    6. The Crew: Quest for Planet Nine

    This innovative trick-taking card game requires players to complete specific missions together. The Crew is simple to learn but challenging to master, making it a favorite for casual and experienced gamers alike.

    7. Betrayal Legacy

    While not strictly cooperative throughout, Betrayal Legacy starts with players working together to explore a haunted mansion. The twist? One player often becomes the traitor, adding suspense and unpredictability.

    8. Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island

    Survive on a deserted island in this highly thematic game. Players must gather resources, build shelter, and overcome challenges as they face the perils of island life.

    9. Marvel Champions: The Card Game

    Step into the shoes of your favorite Marvel heroes and work together to thwart villains in this action-packed card game. With customizable decks and expansions, Marvel Champions offers endless replayability.

    10. Shadows Over Camelot

    Set in the Arthurian legend, this semi-cooperative game has players working as knights to defend Camelot. However, there’s a twist—a potential traitor in your midst adds intrigue and tension to every decision.

    Why Co-op Board Games Are a Hit

    Cooperative board games bring players together in unique and exciting ways. They’re perfect for fostering teamwork, building friendships, and enjoying shared victories—or commiserating over shared defeats! Whether you’re new to co-op games or a seasoned player, these titles are guaranteed to deliver unforgettable experiences.

    Which of these co-op games is your favorite? Let us know in the comments or suggest others you think belong on this list!