In Defence Of The UnGame | Board Game History

[@TheAdamSchaaf]

A game based on listening to others without bashing them with your opinion and needing a general sense of empathy seems destined to be unliked by the internet. The work going into the videos at Phenoma-nerds to get at the heart of what connects us to communal gaming is extremely top-notch. This is the best example of that yet.

[@sarahhouck9826]

As someone who was scarred by this game in therapy as a kid, I've always had a level of hate for it. But watching this video as an adult really makes me have a better opinion of it. I appreciate this video and maybe I will hate the idea of it a little less going forward.

[@sonan333]

Would you mind explaining what happened with the "game" that it scarred you as a child? Was it used "incorrectly", either through being told you weren't doing it right, or something? Or was it the environment, and then having a "device" used to prompt you that put you off? Or maybe something entirely different? Side question, was it a family therapy setting, or was it just you there?

[@2dtrash19]

God I could listen to Adam talk about this game non-stop. The idea that you get to just say something about yourself and don't have to worry about how people are going to immediately respond, positively, negatively, or otherwise, means a lot to me. This game sounds like a very pleasent experience, and I'd love to play it for myself some day.

[@emmaplaysgreen2849]

Coming late to this video, I thought it was extremely interesting and very thoughtful. I'm autistic and many autistic people have a trait called alexyithmia which can make it hard for someone to recognise and describe their own emotions. The Ungame and similar tools may well be very useful as a means of improving that. I also know that there are much newer games such as The Color Monster, a game about identifying different emotions & aimed at young children, that are also obviously more refined as they have a few more decades of knowledge to work from. Play therapy has also come a long way and therapists use a wide variety of techniques with kids and families. As a parent of neurodivergent children, I have had to spend a lot of time in the offices of many professionals here in France. I can tell you now that every single one of them had a copy of Dixit on a shelf somewhere! My youngest daughter attends an after school unit for kids who need more support and they also use role play (in a therapy sense), board games and RPGs with the kids as well as things like music therapy etc. The Ungame seems to be very much a product of its time but it also still has a lot going for it! I wonder what it would look like if it were updated by someone like Alan Gerding, designer of Two Rooms and a Boom but also a Psychology Professor, for example? OK, having written an essay, I'm going to watch more videos on this wonderful new channel of yours that I have just discovered!

[@bareakon]

My autism presents as a hatred of small talk and difficulty starting conversations. So deck 2 seems right up my alley.

[@SakuraSsj]

I mean now that I'm 26 and living with my s.o. the game has it's appeal but to be fair, the thought of being forced by my parents to play this as a teenager 10-15 years ago is the worst nightmare I can think of

[@Alucard-A-La-Carte]

It's interesting how much those overtly hostile (rather than critical) reviews almost exactly mirror angry reviews of "walking simulators." But as you say: certainly not going to use that to imply the incredible insecurity of some people.

[@jeremydavis83]

My team and I use a card version of the Ungame when we do group therapy with teens. We "rig" the cards by putting some light funny cards in then pull out ones that we tailor to the group we are doing. The results are wonderful as we've had some amazing results and the teens enjoy being able to speak and not have to worry about what other people are going to say. We then process with the teens individually when they share deep feelings before sending them back to classes or home for the day. Awesome Video for a very good game.

[@LoganBluth]

I really hope you make participation voluntary for the teens. Because I was forced to play this game in group therapy as a kid, and I will hold undying hatred for my then therapist in my heart from now until the day I die.

[@Lynch2507]

I've really enjoyed how much it feels like Adam can just do whatever he wants in the most recent videos he's been in, like the creativity is infectious

[@gheefreak]

You're making an extremely rich and interesting channel here, Adam. I really like it a lot.

[@beejamjam]

Thank you so much Adam. Seeing this video a year ago led to me starting my entire undergrad dissertation on The Ungame. That dissertation just received a distinction mark! ❤

[@burningheartphotography9752]

I enjoyed this more than I thought I would more deep diving into game plzzzz

[@Ashworth1992]

As a person who struggles to communicate my feelings to others and has done for a long time, this game sounds incredible. Wonderful video, love this channel and the work you all do. Merry christmas and happy gaming

[@DriveThruReview]

I honestly had no idea what this game was... just that it was "hated". Now... I'm interested (with the right group of course).

[@afternoonbaboon8064]

This video was really good. After I heard Pete and Andy talk about it Ive wanted to give this a try.

[@thebestame3582]

I personally think if people were moved by this, they should help this game out by rating it higher on Board game geek. I just hate knowing that something like this is getting buried under hate when it was made with so much heart Edit, obviously not try to give it a 10 or 9 rating. But damn it doesn't deserve a 2.8

[@christiangarza8122]

Let’s put another way: If Monopoly (a 4.4) is the worse board game everybody owns, then let’s make this the worse game that everyone need to own.

[@mzzabzzuzza4759]

Quite honestly one of the best board game reviews I've ever watched. Bravo.

[@rossboss629]

I love your review of this game! I'm a counselor myself and from what I gathered, this game creates the space for vulnerability and offers an experience itself teaches active listening. It's amazing how we don't need to be taught "how" to do these things but they happen when we allow them to. The staying silent when others are talking and not giving feedback are tenants in support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and sometimes in group therapy check-ins. Also, your hour debriefing afterward is often something we as therapists do toward the end of session, whether individuals or groups. The things we talk about are called "content" but then it's important to discuss the "process," or what it was like to talk about those things. I've often gotten giggles in my groups for pulling out a "jar of feelings" but it's incredible to see a group of people from all walks of life connect and relate in a way they didn't expect was possible. While I don't have intentions to necessarily use this game in a counseling session, I might want to pick this up for the theme and to experience it myself as a gamer and more importantly, a person.

[@TonyCalvano]

I love you, Adam!!! Yes!!! My British friends are reviewing UNGAME!!! It’s an autastic’s dream! I was in special ass-burger aka HYPERACTIVE classes 1976-1979 at Ambruster School in Greendale, WI led by Mrs. Linda Shackner. AND, we played this game non-stop!!! I want to talk about my feelings NOOOOOOOW!!!!

[@CasualFox12495]

Why does the other Adam have a flintlock pistol instead of a webbley?

[@ishoottheyscore8970]

"the Hawthorne Effect" - so something I fundamentally hated Big Brother for actually has a name? Cool!

[@EmmaBonn96]

My first reaction to the concept was that it seemed like the game equivalent of those anti technology melodramatic art pieces that people share on Facebook. The ones that see phones as evil. Seeing how it was used to help someone with a disability, it really opened my eyes. Maybe that’s selfish of me. The no interruption mechanic really excited me as my family conversations were regularly filled with interruption. Being in the Bdsm scene It almost feels like to a conversation, what an orgy is to just a group of people having sex There are rules, there is consent, there is after care. It is unnatural but in its structure there is a blanket that allows vulnerability

[@LeslieMorris]

We used to play this game while drunk at uni in Australia in the early 00s. I found a copy a few years ago in an op shop. This is literally the first time I've never hear anyone outside my group of friend ever to talk about it.

[@jesseanderson5018]

Loved this video. Would love to play this game. And also, I would love to watch the video of the group playing the game. I totally understand why you wouldn't want to share it with the entire world (especially on the internet of all places) but I think it would be fascinating.

[@neochivalry]

Dude, cool video. Wasn't sure how much of a deep dive you were going to do and I really appreciate your sincere approach and frank opinion. Like, I've never playing anything these types of games -seen them a plenty but never played/experienced one- but it is an interesting take. Admittedly, I am looking at thing in the autumn of 2021, but I still think this was a mighty good video to tackle a certain side of Board gaming. Concept of the end that any good rousing game can be a "turning point" is one I do quite agree with; though, I will say...if nothing else...you've made me curious about what's on those cards and what my friends/family would say in response. That said, probably still not grabbing a copy to rush home at time of writing: but definitely considering it.

[@BestBoyPatrick]

This game sounds exactly like the kind of thing I could've used during my most depressed times

[@tahunuva4254]

I'm exactly the demographic this game is designed for. And even without playing it, I detest that there's even a possibility I might one day be asked to play it.

[@roryevans4295]

I can’t believe how much I actually enjoy this channel, lists and videos like these, don’t even play board games but learning how monopoly saved lives was interesting

[@kev_whatev]

Now I want a remake of the Young Ones where Rick, Vyv, Neil, and Mike are all just different Adams.

[@BadDayLp]

Im not into board games, im into the charismatic bunch of people on this channel that talk about board games. *Am I the baddy?*

[@ScoobieDoobie197474]

Ditto

[@jasonsaddison]

These videos are great Adam. A lot of what Wrestletalk is doing on its other channels may not have caught fire YET, but gems like this, once found...if found (I'll add to the interactions where I can!)....will introduce every new viewer to a treasure trove. This is a great format! Mini-docs on boardgames require a mix of humor and introspection that you nail.

[@AlexBergPlays]

This video deserves a lot more views...

[@popnpeaceprincess]

this seems sweet as hell and a great way to teach kids to talk about their emotions.

[@Chainball]

I feel there's a slight emotional impact of him writing down instead of still talking during the video while discussing what happened after the surgery, it really brings and shows the impact that can have on even simple moments

[@eclowe6594]

I'm a therapist and if people played this game on the regular I feel like it could put me out of a job... And I would be totally ok with that. A big part of training got therapy is active listening and it sounds like this teaches that pretty well. As well as "building the client back together" which is what you described about your hour talking after the game. I wonder if people would've passed more if you guys had set a limit. "You can pass 5 times in the hour".

[@1pikapein]

Glad Adam is back on KZbin him and Patch got me back n2 the graps and this is bringin back a love of boardgames! Now that I have a daughter when she's older, her and my wife, we can go crazy playin... Also still love Sorry

[@RickyRespawn]

Unrelated but I’m so glad you’re doing well Adam and you’re back with KZbin. You’re too talented and charismatic to not be on this platform 😊

[@aaronmayers4522]

Come for the board game history. Stay for the Prefab Sprout references.

[@eddiecarter5366]

A really good episode, well done. :-)

[@AnneEliseMorrigan]

I want the recording of you guys playing the game so bad! This was a great video!

[@preppen78]

UnGame must be pretty similar to making a youtube video. Talking about a subject of your choosing, formulating your ideas and feeling without anyone interrupting and then watching the comments at your own leisure. It all comes together....

[@Danielsworlds]

As somebody who refuses to play Twilight Imperium despite all of my gaming group playing it. I appreciate that Adam brought it out as a singular example of a game so complex and dents and intimidating but the sheer spite of it can strike fear into the hearts of lesser men.

[@garethbattell9989]

Take my upvote for your 'Freinds' parody. It was funnier than the real show imo... shots fired.

[@mrmojomajestic8317]

Remember ... You have to "fri" their "ends" to make them your friends. 😉👍🏻

[@BlueInkAlchemy]

Well, I now want to play the Ungame with certain people who are or have been in my life. And I also want to play Twilight Imperium with Adam.

[@kurobara3]

I think a fundamental issue for some people is that they may of been pressured and forced into playing it as kids and the its a game that i think requires you to have the create group of people to do it with to not have an awful experience

[@reido82]

Love how you showed Canary Wharf / Isle of Dogs. There's actually a great board game meetup in the pub bottom left of the image you showed. The guy who runs it has over 600 games. That's the meetup that got me into gaming in the first place.

[@ajspringer]

Just the thought of playing this game makes me feel anxious. I think I'll pass haha

[@Veggieman87]

Fascinating idea for a game. I can see how you'd need to set up the right environment before and after play, though. This seems like something I'd personally want to try, but I'd probably have a hard time talking my friends into it, and I honestly don't know how I'd feel about playing it with my family.

[@dantejuryoku1596]

I feel like that's the biggest problem or challenge with this game, setting up the right environment and convincing people to play it with you. I'd love to play it just to get my feelings out, but actually convincing my friends or family to play too would be near impossible.

[@alharron2145]

I've recently joined a group where we play games: usually RPGs, but we also play board games. And it's quite amazing how we're relaxed enough around one another to both play completely frivolously for fun, but also dive deeper into deeply emotional & intellectual places. I might have to suggest this to them too. 7:20 And the advert I got was for Bacon Socks on Wish, just to complete the "That's not food silly" vibes

[@Maker0824]

My mom has struggles speaking sometimes, not always, but sometimes she needs to write stuff down. I can’t imagine how much of an asshole you have to be to ignore someone if they can’t speak. ESPECIALLY if it’s your family

[@JustYesNo]

After hearing Pete and Andy talk about this I been waiting for this!

[@bad1788]

Man watching the lets play to this game would be amazing but also posting a playthru of this on the internet would take guts

[@JoshRazauskas]

Great job Adam. Learning is my favorite part of this channel

[@noamtepper456]

This video is a masterpiece, thank you Adam!

[@fhb3]

0:01 I want to watch that show.

[@MikeHughey728]

I'm not going to lie, I had never heard of the UnGame before now, despite its apparent infamy. But I kind of want to try it. With the right people, of course -- it would never work without a very specific group all knowing they're in for a very specific experience. Maybe it's the year and the "current global situation," but the idea of using gaming as a means of connecting with others on a personal level has been really appealing to me lately.

[@chuges]

Background music choice was spot on. Well done Adam.

[@deathbydazza88]

I recently bought The Crew, The Grizzled, Pandemic and horrified all based on your list, I’m hoping yous can do playthoughs on them soon once everyone can be together again. Thanks for the recommendation

[@waldosalinas6837]

truly this was a very profound video + being such an entretaining video

[@jelmervanriet790]

This sounds like a game i would love to play with my family but would be way too afraid to actually do so.

[@samhayden60]

I like Adam's puppy cushion on his sofa.

[@justincassee8233]

This was awesome ... i love this video ... adam you are a gem

[@Trekie386]

Another great video by Adam showcasing a game that should be in every home. Well, most every home with a functonal family. I would love to play this game with a group of people and just get to know them but it would not work with my immediate family as, yeah... issues. Still sounds like tons of fun with the right people.

[@thewingedporpoise]

see the funny thing is that a lot of the things you've said about this game feels familiar to me because I play a lot of TTRPGs which can certainly be very cathartic, and I've spent many hours sitting around chatting after a session because you need a little time to unwind after acting as a man talking to his best friend's grave

[@cvg5184]

The first 35 seconds is the closet we'll ever get to an Adam vs Adam video. With that being said, great video Plumpy! I probably won't play UnGame because f*ck that but now I know why through this video! Yay!!

[@peterbonucci9661]

This technique was done as a communication thing in the '90s as part of the Men's Movement. It works really well to get open communication between people. It takes on a different feeling when you do it regularly. I think a game needs a natural end, so this doesn't really count as a game.

[@Emnms68]

I would suck at this game as a person with adhd. Edit: as I’ve learnt more about it, I actually think it would be great to play. The comment space would be tough because I would not probably remember what my comment would have been

[@Chris_Elliot84]

I got so many Charlie Brooker vibes from this Adam

[@alisdair42]

I genuinely think this is a game I’d love to try with only a few people, but it would be the best gaming experience I could have

[@brutalititties4604]

I need all heavy things I hear from now on needs to be followed by a corgi interlude.

[@xnettx6308]

Communication is key in todays world. And you do win in this game, you feel better by saying what is on your mind, and you learn things from people you would care to know about. Great video, intrigued with Twilight Imperium though....

[@thejokerl1ves]

I convinced my family to play Ungame when I was in high school. I loved it. They all absolutely hated it.

[@bnorris771]

I love the idea of this “game” but I feel I would struggle with finding the right group for it.

[@Shavinderyt]

Never heard of the ungame, but after this, i feel like i need to play it.

[@HonorThyTarkus]

This sounds like a game I'll love. Or an ungame I'll unlove.

[@lazykbys]

At first I was skeptical of the UnGame. But as I watched this video, that faded away to the certainty that I wouldn't enjoy this at all. Even if no response is required - or even allowed - I would need time to process what was being said, so that when my turn came around, I would still be thinking about what someone said two turns ago. In other words, this would give me AP like you wouldn't believe.

[@Sykelone]

Mate, that intro screen is the stuff of nightmares... Holy *clap clap clap clap* fuck.

[@FearNLoathing0]

Amazing videos, can listen to Adam all day!

[@cybervenom2001]

I've never heard of this game. Now all I want to do is play it!

[@mrmojomajestic8317]

"This game sucks. Why the hell would I want to listen to other people talk, when I can't engage in the conversation with them ? That's stupid ! You guys play if you want, I'm gonna go watch KZbin videos by myself." - 21st century logic.

[@indyalmighty]

Adam has a big house And a cracked phone screen

[@May9k]

Great video. I kinda wanna play this now

[@danddjacko]

I think you shoud try the game Alice is missing. I would say that is a very unique experiance, but a more modern one. I know that you included that in one of your RPG videos, but I would love to see NRB play that

[@jordylont1879]

This is fascinating and I really think I want this game now

[@bayleymonin]

Adam you are the best, absolutely love this channel

[@williamrussell1125]

Does this mean we've got an episode of Let's Play Ungame coming?

[@dago6410]

Only bad thing is the corgis disappear way too soon

[@mattd832]

Monopoly never asked me to share my feelings

[@ljmagician]

Would love to see you guys discuss or play talisman

[@jdixon390]

Hey Adam Love you

[@Karlsruhe00]

Nice puppies bro.

[@erichorner8336]

Lol. The Corgi on the Roomba! Haha

[@BestBoyPatrick]

I would absolutely love to play this with my friends and families

[@skygodofallurya]

That was lovely. Thank you.

[@mjvdg4194]

Absolutely loved this!

[@axelolord]

Knowing how adults are to children, and especially looking back at how much worse it was in the past, I can absolutely imagine why so many people hate this game. Just think of the therapists and parents FORCING their children to 'play' this and not following the rules at all. The whole focus being on the kid, everything the parents say when it's their time being targeted AT the kid. And the 'no comment' rule? Of course it's going to get broken. The game makes the rules, the parent twists them to their own need. And even if it's not broken you can sure as hell be sure that whatever the kid said would be 'used against it', so to speak, later. The Ungame feels like a GREAT tool. That is if everyone that approaches it does it of their own volition and on equal footing, otherwise it could VERY easily become a tool of abuse and control.

[@cholland67]

Loved the spaced references

[@Pauldjreadman]

Lmao the opening card.

[@Afterthoughtbtw]

Not going to lie. As someone with severe anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues... this sounds like a horrific experience. I could mention a lot of reasons why, but one of the most blatant would be that the amount of confidence you would have to have in the people you were playing it with is beyond most people with social mental health related issues. If one of my therapists had tried to use this with me, I would have walked out the door and probably never seen a therapist again for years. My guess is that if this is useful from a mental health point of view, then it's useful for people who don't know that they need a release valve, and that other people also don't know that those people need it.

[@tafua_a]

I would say this, you need a group of people you feel confident about opening up with, if you want this game to work. If you just play it with random strangers, it's going to be a horrible experience.

[@swaanm]

I played it with a therapist and found it beneficial. I found very specific prompting and the expectation of talking helped me open up- I normally know exactly what I want to say, but have trouble trusting the other person or worry it’s not the right time to bring it up. The game context made me feel more comfortable sharing. Obviously a lot of people aren’t like that and that’s cool; I just find it interesting.

[@justyourlocalrat_]

Not done yet but 1. Monologue -> space -> potential response feels a lot like how the internet is structured, 2. as an autistic person that struggles with communicating in "normal" societal ways, I actually find the concept of trying out a different set of rules for communication that feel just as arbitrary to me very intriguing, and 3. this feels like a very feminist video to me and that's super cool. I always struggle to feel safe/trusting in spaces that aren't explicitly about social issues, so this was a very pleasant surprise to find on a board game channel

[@dradkyn9118]

I really like this guy