Max Miller, the host of the popular YouTube show "Tasting History," is bringing his blend of historical recipes and engaging lessons to the tabletop with a new board game. Developed in partnership with game designer Michael Shinall and publisher Salt Games, "Tasting History: The Board Game" launched on Kickstarter this week. The game is a worker-placement title where players gather ingredients to prepare historically accurate recipes, host parties, and progress through different eras.
The base game will feature three distinct historical periods: ancient Rome, medieval Europe, and the American Frontier. Each era comes with its own deck of 25 unique recipes, period-specific events that act as special goals, and unique starting resources. A special ingredient specific to each era, such as garum in Rome, can offer additional rewards when used in recipes. The game is designed for one to five players and can be completed in approximately 60 to 90 minutes, with players taking turns placing their four chefs.
Complementing the historical decks are Insight Cards, described by Shinall as "little bonuses that let you cheat in some way or gain an advantage when the conditions are met." These cards can provide free ingredients, bonus victory points, or other benefits, functioning as a form of "forced assistance" rather than direct negative interaction.
Miller and Shinall emphasized that the game is designed with gameplay as the priority, aiming for replayability and depth comparable to titles like "Wingspan" or "Lords of Waterdeep." The goal is for the game to be enjoyable for dedicated board gamers while remaining accessible to the "Tasting History" audience, many of whom may be new to the hobby. To achieve this, elements like simplified setup options are being considered.
While the game is themed around the show, it is intended to be playable and enjoyable even for those unfamiliar with "Tasting History." However, fans will find numerous nods to the series, including recipes already featured on the show. There is also consideration for integrating the show's educational aspect, with discussions around potentially using QR codes on recipe cards that link directly to relevant "Tasting History" episodes.
The development process involved a shift in design direction after Miller expressed a preference for a competitive experience over an earlier, more cooperative concept. "I want to win!" Miller stated, explaining his preference for competitive games.
The game mechanics aim to create an approachable experience, drawing parallels to "Everdell" with its worker-placement and time-progression elements. Notably, spaces on the board are not blocked by other players' chefs, reducing potential player "meanness" and enhancing accessibility. The "forced assistance" from Insight Cards is designed to be less detrimental than harsher "take that" mechanics.
For enthusiasts eager to try the game, Salt Entertainment has made a prototype mod available on Steam's Tabletop Simulator. While a solo mode against a simulated "Max Miller" is in development, it is not expected to be included in the initial release. This solo mode is described as featuring a "cheating" opponent who can improvise recipes.
"Tasting History: The Board Game" is positioned as a versatile option for families, history buffs, food lovers, and gamers, offering a potentially engaging experience for both casual play and dedicated game nights.