Deck Building Games Melbourne
Connect through deck building games meetups in Melbourne

Girl Founders Council - Focus Group - Founders and Builders Session 2
Sat, Jul 25, 12:00 AM**Location:** East Melbourne Library - Booked Private Meeting Room ([Local Studies Room](https://bookings.melbourne.vic.gov.au/bookings/asset/4a01e0fe-5b8f-44b0-9be1-b5dbe63194fb/Local-Studies-Room)) **Spots:** 8 maximum *This is the first one. Come help us figure out what it becomes.* The Founders Council is a weekly gathering for women in Melbourne's south-east who are building something — a business, a side project, a creative practice, an idea that keeps coming back. It is not just a networking event. It is not a workshop. It is a council — a small room of women who show up weekly (or help out the one-off joiners to the group) to give and receive honest input from people who are in the same season of building but might be doing it alone. You will meet other girls who are building something too, let's help each other out with whatever each of us is working on. Share your inputs and ideas. Because I believe we have so many skills and pieces of knowledge that can help the person next to you. This can be your accountability group come when you can, touch base and keep yourself accountable with what you planned to build. **Session 01 will run like this:** We will start with a quick round of names and what everyone is working on — thirty seconds each. Then the council opens. Anyone who wants to bring something gets fifteen minutes — a problem, a decision, a pitch to test, something they need honest eyes on. (You can also treat this as your accountability group where in your 15 minutes you can share what your plan is for this week. Then come again next week to check in and plan the next week) The group responds. Not with prescriptive advice. With real honest reactions from people who get it. We close with each person naming one thing they are doing before next week. That is it. That is the accountability. Then the last thirty minutes are open — coffee, conversation, the kind of talk that only happens when the room is right. **You do not have to share anything.** Come and contribute to the group. Listen. Give your perspective on someone else's problem. That seat is just as valuable as any other. **Who belongs here:** Women aged roughly 20 to 40 in Melbourne who are actively building something. Early stage, side hustle, just an idea — all welcome. The only thing that connects everyone in the room is that you are building and you want to be around others who are doing the same. **What to bring:** Yourself. Coffee. Optionally — one thing you are working on or stuck on that you would like the group's eyes on. **Spots are limited to 6.** Small by design. The council only works when the room is small enough for everyone to have the time to share and get the response. *This is a weekly event. Come once or come every week — no commitment required. The door is always open.* Started by Veronika — Building an app for couples, and someone who started this group because she needed it and could not find it.

Beginner Guided Game Night: Dungeons and Dragons - North Melbourne Saturday
Sat, Jul 25, 7:30 AM**Join 5 Beginners for a night of Teamwork, Problem-solving and Hijinx in Dungeons and Dragons.** Turn an Empty Saturday Night into Meeting Five New People. It's an exciting trial night that we've been running for about 2 years, so we got good at it. There will be plenty of opportunies for chats, eats, photos, costumes and toys. Dungeons and Dragons is a relaxed role-play game; part boardgame and part improv with dice. Unlike most boardgames, it involves more talking with the other players about situation you'll be placed in. When you arrive you will be greeted at the door, and you'll be able to chat and ask questions with the lead host. Afterwards you will be assigned a group of other beginners who arrived alone, and get a chance to meet them and your Game Master before the game begins. Each game is a unique story, with props and pieces provided for by your Game Master host. You will love this if: - You want to make friends at a relaxed/creative game night - You like fantasy stories, novels, video games, anime and the like - You work your job a lot and want an exciting, fulfilling social hangout on your off time - You got to Melbourne less than 2 years ago, and have experienced how hard it is to make friends down here *(We've all been there*) 82% of all Ludos Guild Members fit this description exactly, with the other 18% missing only one of these 4 traits. If this fits you, I'm even more excited to show the game that changed everything for me. This night was made for you :) But tonight, exclusive to first timers, it is 100% free, my gift to you. If at any point in the night, You feel like this game is for you and you want to join more. There will be an opportunity to buy the program at an 80% discount. Afterwards, if we still think your a great fit, you will be welcome to join the ludos guild as a member, and join our private events, including the Fellowship campaigns, guided painting nights, and other social events. Cya soon Jope, GM of Ludos Guild **Frequently Asked Question** (or just message Jope your Q's) **How "beginner" is beginner?** - You've played a few times and have the gist of it? that's okay. - You've never played at all? that's okay. - You've played up to a level 5 sorcerer with 2 levels in warlock so you could burn the short rest warlock spell slots for the font of magic sorcerer points? You ain't a beginner! But shoot your shot, I might just expidite you to the main group :) **I'm worried I'll slow people down if I don't pick up the game quick enough...** Don't be! Our game night is only for beginners and we've taught hundreds of people this game, we wouldn't expect you to fully remember every detail in one session. But you'll definitely be able to enjoy yourself. **I'm worried I'll be the only girl there...** No problems, I usually see 30% to 50% of our attendees are woman. I can't guarantee this on any given night, or any given group. But you'll find that the environment is super welcoming to all, and it wont effect your enjoyment of the game : (As with all concerns, if something makes you uncomfortable at an event let Jope know **How old are the other attendees? I don't want to be the only "old person"/"young person" there...** Great question, no one wants to be the odd Ione out in their group. We usually get attendees anywhere from 22-49 with a pretty mixed crowd. I can't make any promises on any given day, but the Ludos Guild has a 80% young-to-mature professional demographic with the remaining 20% older/retired and uni graduates **Will everyone already know each other?** Nope. Sometimes we get couples/duos. Only the game masters really know each other. We also like to break clicks here. You might be wandering why the group has 2000 people yet no one knows each other? Thats because people either left, or they moved on to join Ludos Guild and are playing D&D right now in semi-permement groups : **I might potentially show up late - should I just miss out instead?** Message Jope as early as possible about being late. We can hold a game from starting for up to 20 or so minutes, do keep us informed : **I can't do Saturday nights becuase of other commitments, do you run at other times?** So Ludos runs events every weekday evening, and every morning, afternoon and evening of the weekends. Which means we have up to 11 events running Message Organiser Jope directly via Meetup your question for an answer about whats going on at the moment **I'm not the super witty/theatre/improv type, but I think I might like this - should I attend?** Ah yes, there are many ways to enjoy D&D. Everyone loves the story and characters, some really get into building their character from a games mechanics perspective. Others just like to hang out and chat about the game. People find different things here What I can say, is that we don't know which type you are until you attend your first game : **I've been to other game nights and they're been hit or miss - whats different here?** Like most game nights, the quality of the night is a reflection of the attendees, so we often filter out people who we think are bad fits. Don't worry, unlike most games, you can't really be bad at D&D, and you won't be judged for not picking up the rules instantly or asking questions, this if for beginners afterall :) . If you're a mature, friendly person your welcome at Ludos **How heavy on rules is this game night?** We all play fairly light on the rules, you won't be pulled up for not knowing a niche rule, everyone generally leans towards the "rule of cool" if it won't break the game : **I played D&D before and had a bad time at Fortress/Facebook Group/University Club?** Yep, heard this one a lot. Unlike Facebook and university groups we vet people a lot. If someone sucks the first time they come they aren't given the opportunity to come back again. If you've paid for a session of D&D and didn't have a good time of it because you were stuck with crappy people, immature kids, or a loud venue - Bring your email receipt to me (Jope) and I'll credit your session purchase to my Beginner Program

Melbourne Board Game Market 2026
Sat, Aug 1, 12:00 AMThe Melbourne Board Game Market (MBGM) connects local board game publishers, designers and accessory makers with the local community of board gamers. The Melbourne Board Game Market will be held at Coburg Town Hall from 10am to 4pm on the 1st August at Coburg Town Hall. **Free Entry!** Australian board game publishers, designers showing published and prototyped games. You’ll be able to try out games that have just been released, discover what will soon be hitting crowd funding and help to make games being designed right now even better. There will also be board game accessory makers selling their wares to help make your game nights even better or to help you look good while you play. If you're interested in exhibiting please message us and we will send you an exhibitor pack! You’ll also be able to find used games at great prices at the Flea Market (flea market seller registration will open in July)

Board Game Playtesting – 26 July
Sun, Jul 26, 1:00 AM**Welcome to Incubator Melbourne!** Curious about how board games are made? This is our regular event to test prototype games. Newcomers are very welcome and no experience is needed. You don’t need to bring a game to join and play. ***Please RSVP here and cancel if you cannot attend.*** *Total attendance is higher than the Meetup RSVP list, and we typically have a good-sized group on the day.* 🗺️ **HOW TO FIND US** The Lion Hotel is on level 3 of Melbourne Central. We’ll be down the back at Jac’s Bar. Look for our tables and grab a seat. 👀 **WHAT TO EXPECT** • Bring a game to test, or just join in others’ games • Two sessions: short games first, longer games after lunch • Quick intros, setup, lunch break, then afternoon games ⏰ **TIMES** • 11:00–11:30am: Intros and setup • 11:30–1:00pm: Short games • 1:00–1:30pm: Lunch • 1:30–4:00pm: Longer games

Mana On Tap
Fri, Jul 31, 8:00 AM**Every Friday \| 6PM \- Late \| Free Entry** 🎉 *The ultimate weekly hangout for Magic players - new and experienced alike.* Unleash your inner planeswalker at **Mana on Tap**, a free weekly Magic: The Gathering event hosted in Fortress’s Arena. Whether you’re a seasoned spell-slinger or brand new to the game, join us every **Friday night from 6 PM to Late** for games, drinks, and good vibes with fellow Magic fans. ### **Learn to Play** Just picked up your first deck? Want to learn the ropes? Borrow a starter deck for free at Fortress and join a casual Learn to Play session hosted by friendly game guides. Meet fellow new players, pick up tips, and duel in a relaxed, welcoming setting. ### **Play Your Way** Casual, competitive, or something in between, **all formats are welcome** (though most people play Commander). Whether you’re into Commander, Pauper, Standard, or Modern, there’s a seat at the table for you. Bring your deck or borrow one, and play at your own pace. ### **Commander Conclave** Our spacious Arena is perfect for **Commander Night**. Dive into multiplayer games, meet fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy stellar lighting, comfy seating, and easy access to food and drink from our full-service bar. Order via buzzer and get back to the action faster. ### **The Venue** Held in **The Arena** at Fortress, enjoy plenty of space, low-volume ambience, and on-tap beverages while you play. Stay fueled with food and drinks delivered straight to your table - no need to pause the game. **TERMS & CONDITIONS** * *Fortress is a licensed venue, and as such, a valid ID is required and checked upon entrance to the premises.* * *Unaccompanied minors are not permitted in the venue at any time. Please make sure any guests under 18 are accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.* * *Minors are not allowed in the venue past 8:00 pm* * *No outside food or drinks.* *More information on valid forms of identification and Fortress' minors policy can be found here: [www.fortress.games/minors/](https://www.fortress.games/minors/)*

Tricky Tuesday @ The Peacock Inn
Tue, Aug 4, 9:00 AMWelcome to the **Tricky Tuesday** Meet Up! This is a smaller event but still the same sized fun! Come join us to play and explore modern card games (especially trick-takers and climbing/shedding games)! It's a great chance to learn a new game and meet some new people. You can usually find us at the tables in the side room! * *This event is made possible (and kept free for all members) via the support of [Pretty Tricky Games](http://prettytrickygames.com.au). An Australian online store for niche and unique imported and indie board and card games. Some of these you will be able to experience at our events!* Bring some games to this event if you can. There are none available at the venue. I will always have some packed - feel free to search for the rules and prepare yourself to play! These regular suspects include: Skull King, Farm Hand, The Crew, Space Dragons, VIVO, and Inside Job. Please consider others when coming and in the lead up to the event. We want as many people there as possible. If you are unable to attend mark yourself as such as soon as you can so others can be notified and attend. There's an FAQ below but if you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out. Your tricky friend, Dave **FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS** **What is a trick taking game? Good question you handsome person.** * Generally speaking, a trick taking game is a card game which is played in a series of rounds known as ***tricks***. * Each trick is evaluated to determine a winner or ***taker*** of that trick and then will usually start - or ***lead*** *-* the next trick. * The goal is usually tied to either winning or losing a number of tricks. This may also come in the form of you guessing how many tricks you will win - known as a ***bid***. * Some games may have a suit that always wins - known as a ***trump***. * Most trick taking games are **competitive** needing between 3-5 players, others are **cooperative**, there are also solo and two-player trick taking games as well! * Popular trick taking/trick taking adjacent games you may have heard of: [The Crew](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/324856/the-crew-mission-deep-sea), [Skull King](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/150145/skull-king), [Cat in the Box](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/345972/cat-in-the-box-deluxe-edition), [Scout](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/291453/scout), [Fox in the Forest](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/221965/the-fox-in-the-forest), the classic games of [Spades](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/592/spades) and [Hearts](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/6887/hearts), **What makes a Trick Taking game fun?** * There's so much to trick taking games! They're generally quick to teach, quick to play, have interesting decision spaces, and a wide variety of novelty. Even the classics though can be played thousands of times without getting tiresome. Part of the fun is in the interaction with others, assessing their moves and countering them, and how to win (or lose) at the right times. You have to stay on your toes, adapt frequently, and keep tabs on the other players, what they have played, and what they may play next! **Do I need to know how to play/have played a trick taking game before?** * Not at all, but it is good to understand the basics and general terminology so you can pick things up a bit easier on the night. You can check out [this video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7O7QyhKmCsk) for a bit of a general breakdown . **Is this event free?** * Yes, but please support the venue by purchasing a drink or two. **I'm on the waitlist can I still come?** * Unfortunately, no. We have limited capacity and must abide by it. **I don't have a game to bring, is that okay?** * Generally it will be okay, but it is encouraged to bring and share a game where you can! You can always bring a standard deck of cards or tarot cards and learn a card game or two as well! **Can I bring a guest?** * Unfortunately, unless they have signed up too it won't be possible. We have a strict limit on guests and the event would fill up too quickly otherwise. **How do I get to the venue?** * The 86 Tram is your best bet and has a stop pretty much right outside of the venue. * There are two train stations (Westgarth and Northcote) which are within walking distance. * Parking is available in the area but can get busy. If you don't mind a little walk there is parking down the adjacent street. **Dave, I worry you will win all the games we play. Such an intelligent and beautiful man, you must be a master of the tricks, is this true?** * Firstly - thank-you for the kind words, but secondly - no. I suck at trick taking games and lose more than I win. Yet, I enjoy them for their variety, high interaction, and quick nature regardless. You will be fine if you don't take things too seriously. It's about fun and meeting people... (but if you do beat me too often I will ban you from the group and venue...).
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