Transparency, Trust, and Better Games: Neva Game Press Leads by Example

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years of pushing cardboard, it’s this: no game is perfect. Nevertheless, how a publisher responds when issues are found tells you everything you need to know about who they are.

They have changed their name recently. However, one thing hasn’t changed at all. It is their commitment to their players and to outstanding customer service.

As many of you know, I’ve done a couple of videos covering Neva’s title Iwo Jima. I genuinely enjoyed the game. The topic, the tension, and the design really clicked for me, and it quickly earned a spot in my rotation.

That said—let’s be honest—many of us noticed that the rulebook is a tough read at times. Some sections were difficult to decipher, and in a game that tackles a complex and historic battle, clarity matters. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was something that stood out.

And here’s where Neva Game Press really impressed me.

Owning the Problem—and Fixing It

In their most recent newsletter, Neva directly addressed the rulebook issues with Iwo Jima. No deflection. No excuses. Just a clear acknowledgment of the problem and, more importantly, a solid plan to fix it.

They announced:

  • An updated Clarification and Errata file, available immediately
  • Revised digital rulebooks and player aids, coming soon
  • A physical Update Kit that includes a printed rulebook and player aid

And here’s the part that really deserves applause: the update kit itself is free. Neva, as a small independent publisher, explained that they can’t absorb standalone shipping costs. But, they’ve offered multiple fair options. Add it to your next order to save on postage, or receive it sooner by simply covering shipping.

That’s transparency. That’s respect for your customers. And that’s how you build trust.

There are plenty of wargame and tabletop publishers out there who should take notes from this process.

Neva listened to player and influencer feedback.
They identified the problem.
They communicated clearly.
And they delivered real, tangible solutions.

On top of that, their download section continues to be one of the better ones out there. It offers new scenarios, play aids, errata, and support material. This content actually enhances the experience and keeps games alive on the table.

So here’s a tip of the helmet from the Cardboard Commander: well done. You recognized the issue, owned it, and stepped up in a way that truly supports your players. That customer-first mindset keeps games on the table. It engages communities. This deserves to be recognized. And this isn’t the end of the road for Neva on this channel either. I’ll be producing more content on another Neva title I have in the collection. Sea & Steel will be hitting the table soon. Stay tuned—there’s more cardboard combat on the horizon.

6 responses to “Transparency, Trust, and Better Games: Neva Game Press Leads by Example”

  1. You are spot on, Jerry! I’ve been following Neva for several months and have been very impressed with its approach. You will see Jose lurking, clarifying and generally making things right on BGG and other platforms all the time. Iwo Jima is on my table and is an excellent solo experience. I encourage everyone to give it and Neva a look.

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  2. Ryszard Tokarczuk Avatar
    Ryszard Tokarczuk

    And yet I do not know what exactly is going to happen with the games from p300 program that is being retired. Are they going to simply vanish and be reintroduced at a pace of one-two games per year?

    There used to be eleven games there in that program and I was happy to see the Spartacus game there. Now I am in the dark.

    They are a small publishing house, sure, but I am not interested in all the games that they published already or are going to publish, only the very specific ones (Ancients).

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    1. Have you heard what they are doing with the p300 orders?

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      1. Ryszard Tokarczuk Avatar
        Ryszard Tokarczuk

        I did not ask them directly. From their website, I can only parse what is written in the January update and general preordering system explanations.

        In short, I still do not know what is the fate of Spartacus. I suppose that February update is going to bring some additional information.

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  3. While I agree that their response to the Iwo Jima game has been exemplary, the overall number of errata in the rulebook is shocking.

    I don’t want to depend on a game company fixing things. I will need to see that Neva has learned from their mistakes, and that they have put in place a system to prevent mistakes from happening in the first place. I don’t expect things to be perfect, but I do expect them to be MUCH better than Neva’s latest offering.

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    1. I hope it is not a trend, I think they are headed in the right direction

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