Just got home from Essen Spiel. WHAT A SHOW!

I never traveled outside of the United States until 2024. Last year, I was hosted by the Op Games to release Gnome Hollow at Spiel! It was a blast. But it was so overwhelming and strange learning how to adjust to a new culture, language and so much more.

This year, my wife and I went to France for a week first, and it was amazing to hang out in Nice, and Paris. I felt so much more comfortable. And we were again releasing a game. Allplay has been an AMAZING company to work with releasing Twinkle Twinkle! I spent the week teaching the game to all sorts of people from so many different cultures.

The reception was fantastic. We played for days and I never got tired of it. I have decided that I adore europeans. They are generally so much kinder than Americans. They have a kindness to them that shows in how they speak, and act. Playing with them is FUN!

I think my biggest takeaway from the show is how different European gamers are from American. Small games seem to be king there. I was shocked at how many people purchased dozens and dozens of small box games. I saw a much smaller percentage of people carrying big huge games and “popular” titles around. I did see some, but they were the minority. Even when walking through Hall 3 you just don’t see tons of people buying huge expensive games.

I think focusing on smaller titles (along with a few large ones over time) is the strategy for me. But speaking of larger titles… It was SO AMAZING to see Gnome Hollow in German!!!

Overall, I really enjoy being in Europe. The buildings are old, and there is so much history to enjoy everywhere you look. I don’t really like to pay to use a bathroom, or drink water. but hey… when in Rome… erm, Europe.

Speaking of small games… I am releasing one with Arcane Wonders next year;)

-Ammon