Today I’m starting a new series here on the site and on the ‘Gram: Board Game Bling Ups. These are little things I do to improve my games in any way.
One thing to consider that, in my case, I am a gamer on a budget. So most of these will not be fancy upgrades from renowned suppliers, but things I find in discounts, dollar stores, and other cheap places.
Mageling
Mageling is a game that I absolutely adore. I love small box big games, and I also love unique and memorable art and components. Even though this is a fantasy game, the art is different, a little abstract and very dream like at times. It’s FANTASTIC!
The components are also great, and very fitting for the small box. Everything fits well and it’s easy to store without too much hassle, which I appreciate. Even sleeved cards fit no problem. Does this game really need sleeves? No. Not that much shuffling, and the quality is great. But I am a serial sleever.
But there is one component I thought could use some upgrades. The little mana marker. Don’t get me wrong, it’s small and does the trick, and even though it covers the number, it works well. And it even flips when you go above 20.
Still, I wanted something cooler, and if you could actually see the number that would be great. Well folks…
I have a box of left over crafts stuff from the kids projects, and I had these glass beads. It was used to convey water drops, and they are very similar to the ones used in Petrichor. That was exactly what I needed. They did the trick, looked great, felt great, and fit the box with absolutely no issue.
Yes, felt great. A HUGE part of my enjoyment of board games is the tactile nature. I guess it tickles my neurodivergent brain in the right spot. So the little clink it does when placed and the nice little swish when you move, it brought so much joy to that part of the game. And yes, it doesn’t mark when you go above 20. So how did I solve that?
I didn’t. BUT, then again, I’m not good enough in the game to hit that 20 consistently. So does it really matter?
I hope you enjoy this series, and I’ll bring something a little bigger next time!
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