[whitehexagon]

This looks like a perfect match for the music synth ReacTable, something that never ported well to ipad because of the lack of physical pieces.

But my concern would be that this becomes just another Ad platform, but targeted at kids.

For me a board-game is offline time. So I would picture this with no WiFi and SD card based games. Which could still be profitable via an other-device app store. But would also avoid temptation for developers to add these more addictive online/networked games.

[fwip]

If you didn't see it, the FAQ partially addresses your wifi concerns: "Does Board need WiFi or batteries? Board plugs into the wall, no batteries required. WiFi is only needed when you want to download new games. Once it’s powered on, you’re ready to play."

Obviously they could add ads later, but it's a little reassuring to know that it's designed from the outset to work without an always-on connection.

[whitehexagon]

Not sure. As a developer I like the concept, but the more I read of the legal, the more concerns I have. It reads more like an online tablet, but without service guarantees. Maybe some of the legal was for the website, it wasn't clear to me. But there was also mention of social media, complete game usage collection, and phone and email direct marketing, defaulted to opt-in.

[ryanmeasel]

Other than downloading the games and updates, the device is fully functional offline.

[fhcbix]

> For me a board-game is offline time.

That's fair but not universal. Plenty of communities exist around playing board games online and often that's the only way to meet players of equal strength or run large tournaments.

[whitehexagon]

Sure, but then maybe it should be two models; one with WiFi for adult gaming, and one that is 100% offline safe model for kids to play with. With the added advantage that the SD card based games can be managed by parents to help manage 'game time'.