Navigator Lana

Navigating the world of games

In a world of digital distractions, tabletop games offer a much-needed antidote. They provide real-world engagement, face-to-face connection, and the joy of shared experiences. Board games and RPGs offer us ways to interact and dive into a new world.

That said, let’s start at the beginning with an introduction. I’m Lana (pronounced lay-na), your guide to the world of games! With a love for both tabletop adventures and real-world exploration, I’m here to help you discover new games, meet fellow gamers, and share my enthusiasm for discovering games and the stories, cultures, and experiences they bring to life. I believe games have the power to transport us to new worlds and that there are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Through my blog and contributions to the Level Up Board Game Podcast, I aim to build a community of passionate gamers who share the desire for exploration, engagement, and joy of play.

Games are more than just a way to pass the time; they’re a way to bond with people, discover new things, and explore new worlds. They’ve had a profound impact on my life, and I think they have the potential to do the same for others. The board gaming community on BGG understands this, but I’m always excited to meet new people, learn, and share how our hobby can help us connect with others, both within and outside the community. Through board games and tabletop games, I’ve met some of the most amazing people, some of whom have become my closest friends. I’ve found my people in the board gaming hobby.

My passage through the gaming world has evolved over time. I remember as a young child, my mom and grandma teaching me this card game called, “May I.” It is essentially a variation of rummy. Some of my earliest memories, even before I could actually play with them, includes seeing my grandparents and the rest of the adults in the family sitting at the kitchen table laughing, gasps when someone laid down cards or found a card they needed, enjoying snacks, and continue playing this card game for hours together in the evening. Every time we’d visit, it was tradition. Gather round and play this card game. It wasn’t until I got older that I recognized what a profound effect that had on my gaming journey. Into college, I loved planning game nights and using that as a means to get to know fellow students. That fondness and joy has remained a steady influence and guided me throughout my adult life.

As a literature teacher with a background in English and a long-time devotion for gaming, I’m fascinated by how games can tell stories, spark imagination, and create shared experiences – just like the ones I’ve had with my family and friends. I’m excited to dive deeper into the world of games, uncovering hidden gems and discovering how they can transport us to new worlds. I believe there are countless stories waiting to be discovered, and I’m eager to set sail on this sea of games with you, exploring uncharted territories and meeting fellow adventurers along the way. I invite you to join me on this voyage as we chart a course through the vast and wondrous world of tabletop gaming!

Feel free to drop a hello, share a fond memory you have of gaming, or share a little about yourself. Happy gaming, and may your adventures be legendary, fellow navigators!

Until next time,
Lana