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Blog
Welcome to our Blog Page.
Stay updated with our board game blog at The Gaming Circus in Bournemouth. Explore expert reviews, beginner guides, and the latest news on family favourites, strategy games, and trading card games. Whether you’re new to tabletop or a seasoned player, our blog helps you discover and enjoy the best in board gaming in the UK.
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Fliptoons Review: The Small Box Deck-Building Game We Can't Stop Playing
Our in-depth Fliptoons review explores gameplay, replayability, player counts and whether this fast-paced small box travel game from Thunderworks Games deserves a place in your collection.
Alex Critchell
4 hours ago6 min read
Our Most Anticipated Games of UK Games Expo 2026: 10 Demos You Shouldn’t Miss
Discover 10 of the most exciting tabletop games to check out at UK Games Expo 2026, from cozy builders and clever deduction games to dungeon crawlers and dexterity challenges. Find publishers, stand numbers, and why these games deserve your attention.
Alex Critchell
May 267 min read
First Time at UK Games Expo? Here’s What We Wish We Knew Before Going
Heading to UK Games Expo for the first time? Discover practical tips from nearly 10 years of attending, including demos, late night gaming, planning your weekend, and meeting new tabletop gaming friends.
Alex Critchell
May 198 min read
Wingspan Americas Expansion: Brilliant Evolution or Unnecessary Extra?
Discover whether the Wingspan Americas expansion is worth adding to your collection. We break down the hummingbird mechanics, gameplay changes, pros and cons, and who this expansion is really for.
Alex Critchell
May 67 min read
March of the Ants: Evolved Edition Review – Is This Strategy Board Game Worth It?
Thinking about buying March of the Ants: Evolved Edition? Our detailed review covers gameplay, difficulty, playtime, replayability and whether this deep strategy board game is worth it.
Alex Critchell
Mar 177 min read
Nervous to Join a Board Game Group? Here’s Why You’ll Feel at Home Faster Than You Think
Discover how board games help you meet people, reduce anxiety, and build lasting friendships. A personal look at the power of tabletop gaming communities.
Alex Critchell
Feb 177 min read
💘 Top 10 Best Two-Player Valentine’s Board Games for the Perfect Date Night
Looking for Valentine’s board games? Discover the best two-player games for couples, romantic games, and fun Valentine’s date night ideas perfect for a cosy night in.
Alex Critchell
Feb 47 min read
Incantibus Review: A Family-Friendly Set Collection Game of Wands, Potions and Wizards
A full review of Incantibus, a fast-paced family board game where players collect items, brew potions, and defeat an evil wizard. Perfect for kids and family game night.
Alex Critchell
Jan 274 min read
How Board Games Improve Mental Health: A Screen-Free Hobby for Stress, Connection and Confidence
Discover how board games can improve mental health by reducing stress, easing loneliness, boosting confidence, and offering screen-free social connection. A supportive guide to mental wellbeing through gaming.
Alex Critchell
Jan 206 min read
Best Beginner Board Games: How to Get Into the Tabletop Gaming Hobby
Discover the perfect starting point for your board game journey! This guide introduces beginner-friendly, fun, and easy-to-learn games helping new players build skills, enjoy gameplay and confidently explore the exciting world of tabletop gaming.
Alex Critchell
Jan 144 min read
The Best Board Games of 2025: My Top 10 Tabletop Greatest Hits
Looking for the best board games of 2025? Here are my top 10 tabletop game greatest hits, featuring new releases, hidden gems, and unforgettable gameplay moments.
Alex Critchell
Dec 31, 20254 min read
How to Teach Any Board Game in Minutes (Even to Non-Gamers)
Learn how to teach board games quickly and easily (even to non-gamers). Expert tips from The Gaming Circus to make any game night fun and stress-free.
Alex Critchell
Dec 17, 20253 min read
Top 10 Games to Spark Joy and Chaos at Your Holiday Gatherings
Discover the best board games to play at Christmas with family and friends. From light, fast party games to deep strategy epics, here are the top 10 holiday tabletop games for every group size and skill level.
Alex Critchell
Dec 10, 20256 min read
Top 10 Secret Santa Gift Ideas Under £10
Looking for the perfect Secret Santa gift? Discover 10 fun, budget-friendly board games under £10, perfect Christmas gift ideas for everyone!
Alex Critchell
Nov 25, 20253 min read
🎅10 Best Board Games to Gift as Stocking Fillers This Christmas 2026
Looking for the perfect Christmas stocking fillers? Discover our top 10 board games for 2026. Fun, affordable, and perfect for all ages.
Alex Critchell
Nov 12, 20255 min read
Kavango Board Game Review: Turn Cards into Your Own Thriving Wildlife Reserve
Build your dream wildlife reserve in Kavango! Our review covers gameplay, card drafting mechanics, and how to master this engaging tableau-building board game.
Alex Critchell
Sep 30, 20254 min read
Is Kronologic: Cuzco 1450 Worth Playing? An Honest Review of the Mystery Deduction Game
Kronologic challenges players to solve who, where, and when. Read our full review to see why this deduction game stands out.
Alex Critchell
Sep 24, 20254 min read
Is Finspan the Ultimate Game in the Wingspan Collection?
Dive into the depths of Finspan, where marine research meets strategic gameplay! Will this game reel in the big points or get tangled in seaweed? Join Alex as he uncovers whether this aquatic adventure is a treasure or just a shipwreck waiting to happen. Spoiler: you won't want to miss this review!
Alex Critchell
Apr 23, 20257 min read
Minos: Dawn of the Bronze Age... A Crete Empire!
Enter the ancient world and lead your clan of Minoan people to a great civilisation that will be remembered for aeons to come.
Alex Critchell
Jan 16, 20255 min read
Bark Avenue...It's a walk in the park!
Dog walking is becoming a competitive business in New York, take to the streets and drum up business as you walk your dogs. Find out more...
Emily Critchell
Aug 8, 20243 min read
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