The emerging board game publisher: Van der Spek Sons Publishing

“Sometimes a new chapter begins when another book slams shut.”

Perhaps you have already heard this phrase in our introductory video. To us, this is more than just a catchy one-liner. It is the core of why we, Tom and Robert, embarked on this adventure. For us, this means launching a board game publishing house: Van der Spek Sons Publishing. Today, we would love to share our story with you.

Born from a memory

In early 2025, we had to say goodbye to our father, Rob van der Spek. Yet, in a time of loss, an idea was born. We did not want his legacy to simply fade away; instead, we wanted to transform it into a tangible, lasting memory.

Our mother, whom we have missed for much longer, wrote unpublished (children’s) books during her lifetime. That love for storytelling, combined with our own passion for games, formed the blueprint for our company. We started a publishing house to honour them: created by the sons of Van der Spek.

No plastic, just care

In a world that is becoming increasingly digital and fast-paced, we deliberately choose to slow down and focus on quality. We believe in the power of stories and in bringing people together around the table.

Our mission is clear: we develop high-quality board games that are not only strategically challenging but also sustainably produced. You won’t find any cheap plastic pieces in our boxes. Materials like wood and metal give our products character. As we mentioned in the video: “Wood, ink, and attention.”

The vision behind our board game publishing house

We do not view a board game as a disposable product, but as an heirloom. The unboxing experience should be a true event, and the materials must be designed to last for generations. We want to create games that will be taken off the shelf thirty years from now with just as much enjoyment (and just as little wear and tear).

Our love for stories, combined with our passion for gaming, formed the blueprint for our business. In doing so, we love to draw inspiration from the immense creativity found within the global community on BoardGameGeek, where a passion for game mechanics and design takes centre stage.

Will you build with us?

Although we are still at the very beginning of this publishing journey, our ambitions are grand. From our bases in Edam and Alde Leie, we are working hard on our first titles. We are focusing on a carefully curated collection that we believe in with all our hearts and souls.

This is our story. A story of loss, but above all, one of creation and connection. We invite you to join us on this journey (a ride that will surely bring successes and undoubtedly some setbacks). Let’s write this new chapter together. Support us by sharing your ideas and follow us on this unforgettable adventure.

Read more about Tom and Robert’s background on our About Us page.

Tom & Robert

Van der Spek Sons Publishing