Foam-Core InsertEnigma

For each insert we create, we have a few standard design goals:

• Reduce setup time as much as possible
• Have separate trays for "setup components" and "gameplay components"
• Allow for vertical box storage without components crushing each other
• Fit sleeved cards

This was the first insert we ever made. Looking back, we should have made draw bins for the tiles the way we did for Drakon, but this one serves well enough for the time being. It was certainly a useful learning experience because while this insert is great for storing the game, it doesn't help setup at all. This caused us to reevaluate goals for inserts and prioritize setup time. The player pieces insert bin has a void under it to allow for spaces for the setup tiles.

How To Build Foam-Core Inserts

We learned how to make foam-core inserts primarily by watching the videos from The Esoteric Order of Gamers. He has created these wonderful tutorials that will help you get started. We have tried a few methods and prefer his practices over any other. Pro tip: Although it is tempting to skip gluing when building inserts to save time, we really REALLY recommend that you don't. We have built a couple inserts using only dress pins to hold them together and they don't last very long.