UW-Stout Professor and game designer releases new board game Luthier: The Art of the Instrument

By Laine Piotrowski

A professor at the University of Wisconsin-Stout released a new board game in late October. Luthier: The Art of the Instrument is the second official release under Paverson Games, which was founded by game design professor Dave Beck back in 2020. After tariffs on imported goods in March pushed back the original July release date and delayed bringing Luthier to the United States, the game is officially back on schedule. Their first game, Distilled: A Spirited Strategy Game, was successfully crowd-funded in 2021 and launched in 2023.

Co-designed with Abe Burson, a fellow designer who spent nearly a decade developing the concept, and featuring artwork by game industry icon Vincent Dutrait, Beck described Luthier as a strategy-based board game set in the "golden age of classical music in Europe."

Designed with a heavy focus on historical accuracy, players take on the role of historic luthiers and other instrument makers — crafting violins, pianos and other period-accurate instruments for famous composers, performers, and royalty across the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic eras of music.

Dave Beck

“Due to the 17th through 19th century being the true golden age of classical music, I knew that it would allow us to feature so many recognizable individuals, as well as instruments, that it would be a rich period to be able to draw from,” said Beck.

The historical and musical aspects of the game are some of the key appeals to players, and can also connect to personal interests. “As a musician, I really enjoyed the theme of the game," said Aaron Durst, director of the School of Art and Design at UW-Stout.

“The composers, instruments, and patrons immediately created a connection for me and a step into music history. It can also be a learning experience for those who are less familiar with music history and hopefully leads to learning more about the music and real people depicted in the game,” said Durst.

Funded through Kickstarter in 2024, Luthier features over 30 real-life historical figures and more than 18 carefully researched instruments. Designed for 1 to 4 players ages 14 and over, the game blends deep strategy with historical immersion, highlighting the craftsmanship and artistry that defined a pivotal period in musical history through its thoughtful attention to detail and intricate designs.

“We want people to pay attention to how thematic it is,” Beck explained. “How we really tried to think carefully about the different eras in music, and incorporating that into the actual gameplay. We are really trying to demonstrate how much research went into it so that you can potentially learn a bit more through playing and feel immersed in it too.”

“Luthier sings to me and hits all the right parts of my game as I play it. I love the theme, I love the art, I love the interaction with players, and I love the choices you make along the way, ” said JB Feldman, a playtester of Luthier.

Available in standard and deluxe editions, Luthier: The Art of the Instrument is now in stores and can be purchased at GameQuest in Menomonie or online. The game can also be ordered at paversongames.com.