Catan and casino action: Scenes from GeekWire’s epic game night

There was some serious business being conducted last night in Seattle. But it wasn’t around mobile app downloads or software-as-a-service subscriptions.

Nope, these geeks were trading wheat, ore, wood, sheep and brick.

That’s right. Our annual GeekWire game night brought out a couple hundred guests to the Spitfire bar in Seattle, with dozens of competitors participating in our annual Settlers of Catan tournament. Others tested their luck playing craps and black jack in the DoubleDown Casino.

It was some serious gaming action, with newbies and experts alike participating in the fun.

Venture capitalist Greg Gottesman of Madrona Venture Group showed up with Catan version in hand, and then promptly kicked the butt of his table mates with a wicked longest road strategy. That included both yours truly, as well as Chrissy Vaughn of Waggener Edstrom who certainly won the endurance award on the night, competing in no fewer than three Catan matches.

And it wasn’t just Catan. Gaming veteran Stuart Moulder — COO of Area 52 Games — showed up with a bag full of award-winning games which he shared with the crowd. Ticket to Ride and other classic board games also were on display.

It was a fun night, and thanks to everyone for coming out. A big thanks to our sponsors — Amazon.com and DoubleDown Interactive — for helping to make the evening possible.

If you missed the action last night, don’t worry. We’ve got more fun in store.

The GeekWire Gala is coming up on Dec. 3 at the wonderfully festive Museum of History & Industry in Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood. Tickets are on sale now for the geekiest holiday party on the planet, but don’t snooze as this event usually sells out. We’ll announce the Newsmakers of the Year and unveil the giant cocktail napkins from the The Seattle 10. Also, DJ Nostalgia B will keep the groove going, while tossing in some holiday classics. A few other special surprises in store too. Tickets and details here.

Meanwhile, here’s a look back at some of the fun from GeekWire Game Night.