Greenville, October 11, 2025
News Summary
The board game industry is witnessing a significant resurgence as it promotes in-person connections, according to entrepreneur Dave Yearick of The Good Game Company. Yearick markets around 20 different board game lines, including favorites like Not It and Fuzzy Logic. Challenges such as tariffs and competition from European manufacturers remain, but the demand for traditional board games continues to grow. Families and friends are turning to board games for engaging social interactions, marking a shift away from digital entertainment.
Greenville – The board game industry is experiencing a significant resurgence, defying the expectation that it is being outpaced by digital gaming. According to entrepreneur Dave Yearick, founder of The Good Game Company, this traditional form of entertainment continues to thrive as it fosters in-person connections and provides a break from the digital world. Yearick’s company, based in an old textile mill in West Greenville, markets nearly 20 lines of board games, including popular titles like Not It and Fuzzy Logic.
Yearick, who was introduced to the board game industry while attending Colgate University in the 1990s, co-created the game Tribond, which sold over 3 million copies. Following the sale of its rights, the company that acquired Tribond recently filed for bankruptcy, potentially opening the door for Yearick to reclaim those rights. In 2019, he launched The Good Game Company with his son, Rudiger, focusing on both retail distribution and e-commerce for board games.
The Good Game Company distributes its products to various retailers, ranging from specialty shops to major chains such as Walmart and Target. Despite the industry’s growth, challenges persist. Yearick highlights that the board game sector faces hurdles like 30% tariffs and strong competition from European board game manufacturers. The complex global market complicates securing shelf space and online visibility for their offerings, making the sales process particularly tough.
Yearick emphasizes that while innovations in product design are achievable, the bigger challenge lies in selling the games to retailers and consumers. He points out that pricing relative to perceived value plays a vital role in customer acceptance and market success.
Background Context
The flourishing board game industry serves as a counter-narrative to the increased digitalization of entertainment options. Many people are gravitating toward board games as a means of engaging with family and friends, relishing the face-to-face interactions they offer. Board games have seen a resurgence after a period of stagnation, signaling a change in consumer interest toward more tactile and social forms of entertainment.
Yearick’s personal journey into board games began when he co-created Tribond, enhancing his understanding of the market. Since establishing The Good Game Company, he has successfully navigated the challenges of design and marketing, with a keen focus on providing engaging and accessible games for families and groups alike.
Conclusion
As the board game industry continues to grow amidst the digital landscape, companies like The Good Game Company play a pivotal role in promoting social interactions through traditional games. The challenges of tariffs and competition underscore the need for strategic planning and pricing to ensure the longevity of this entertainment sector.
FAQ Section
What is the current status of the board game industry?
The board game industry is thriving, contrary to the perception that it’s been overshadowed by digital gaming options.
Who is Dave Yearick?
Dave Yearick is the founder of The Good Game Company, located in Greenville, which markets traditional board games and the outdoor game Djubi.
What is The Good Game Company known for?
The Good Game Company markets nearly 20 lines of board games through its e-commerce site and in retail stores.
What challenges does the board game industry face?
The board game industry currently faces challenges such as 30% tariffs and competition from European board game manufacturers.
Key Features of the Board Game Industry
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Growth | The board game industry is thriving despite digital competition. |
| Company Overview | The Good Game Company sells around 20 board game lines. |
| Popular Games | Not It and Fuzzy Logic are top-selling titles. |
| Challenges | Includes tariffs and competition from Europe. |
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Additional Resources
- Upstate Business Journal: The Good Game Company
- Wikipedia: Board Game
- Greenville Advocate: AHSAA Membership Changes
- Google Search: Board game industry
- WITN: Greenville Museum of Art Events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Board Game
- Daily Advocate: GHS Homecoming
- Google News: Greenville board games
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