For the first time since its inception, the Strange Artifacts crew all got together at the excellent Gamer's Haven in Colorado Springs. While many of us have played together or hung out in the past, this was our first chance to be all in one place and vibe. There was no agenda, no guarantee that we could get a table, but the folks at Gamer's Haven were beyond helpful, and helped us pull two tables together despite it being a busy day at the store. We had loads of room to set up multiple games of Forbidden Psalm and to spread out.

I was able to use the new desert board and some mud huts I made out of packing material, while another member of the group brought out a beautiful new board likely to be featured in our autumn invitational! Lists were built on the spot, which really only takes a few minutes. I expected folks at the store might be interested, but if any one came to look at all, all they had to say was, "Never heard of it!" This happened a bit over the weekend. Strange Artifacts has work to do!

After several hours, we went out looking for vegan food, and scored mightily before heading to Dungeons & Javas for some more hanging out and gaming. Here we introduced Void Admiral to those of the group who had never played it. This is a favorite of mine, and I'd recommend it to anyone who's looking for a great space fleet game.

It was a lot of gaming and vibing, folks got tired, and those who came down from Denver found our ways to our hotel rooms. We agreed to reconvene at Gamer's Haven for a quick intro game of Flames of Orion. I maintain that this is the first game of Flames to have been played in the Great State of Colorado!

All in all, the entire group had a great time! Games we'd all wanted to see found their way to the table. Real talk over lunch, ideas shared, hobby goals discussed and explored. Between the five of us, there are so many games we want to try! The indy scene is spoiled for choice, and we're all motivated enough that I look forward to seeing what amazing models and scenes are brought to the table next time we meet.

Proof positive, if you want to be part of a scene, you need to make a scene. Strange Artifacts has been putting ourselves out there and finding the others. I look forward to reporting more soon!