INTRODUCTION
Step into the world of board games – an exciting universe where imagination, strategy, and luck intertwine to provide endless hours of entertainment. Whether you seek the adventure of leading expeditions through uncharted territories or enjoy the thrill of negotiating international treaties, board games offer countless variations to keep you entertained. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explore the fantastic world of board games and provide you with all the information you need to start your journey.
WHAT ARE BOARD GAMES?
Board games are tabletop games that typically involve counters or pieces moved across a predefined space or board, according to a set of rules. Early board games represented a battle of two armies, but modern games can take on a plethora of themes – ranging from exploring haunted houses, building railroads, to colonizing planets.
Board games provide a tangible and interactive form of entertainment that engages players in a way digital games often don’t. These games require a mix of strategy, chance, and competition, making them a fun and social activity for people of all ages.
HOW BOARD GAMES WORK AND HOW TO GET STARTED
Playing a board game may seem complicated at first glance, due to the presence of several pieces, complex-looking board, and rulebook. However, most games can be broken down into simple steps.
1. Setup: All board games start with a setup – setting up the board, distributing pieces, and preparing the deck, if there is one.
2. Decision making: Players decide their moves or actions based on rules, objectives, and the current game scenario.
3. Game progression: The game progresses in turns, where each player gets a chance to act. This could be moving your pieces, attacking opponents, or building structures – the possibilities are almost endless.
4. Winning: All board games have a win condition – it could be the first one to reach a certain point, having the most points after a set number of turns, or being the last player standing.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
The primary things you need to start playing a board game are the game itself, a rulebook, and an opponent (or more). Some board games might require dice, tokens, or play cards. Most of this should come with the game itself. A large table or flat surface to play on, and sometimes a timer, can also be beneficial.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Start with introductory games: Games like ‘Ticket to Ride’ or ‘Catan’ are perfect for beginners and introduce many mechanics found in more complex games.
2. Use placeholder rules: Until you become familiar with a new game, use basic rule sets or placeholder rules to get started quickly and learn as you go.
3. Online tutorials can be lifesavers: Websites like YouTube are excellent resources for understanding game rules through visual instructions.
4. Socialize: Playing board games is also about socializing and having fun. Do not focus purely on winning – enjoy the process!
5. Be patient: Some games might take time to master.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
For learning about board games, Board Game Geek is the ultimate online resource, providing reviews and rules for virtually any game. Alternatively, The Dice Tower on YouTube has hundreds of beginner-friendly game reviews and tutorials.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Turn: One player’s opportunity to make a move.
2. Setup: Organizing the game for play.
3. Strategy: A plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim within the game.
4. Win Condition: The specific goal that determines the winner.
5. Board: The surface where the game is played.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Now that you have a basic understanding of board games, why not try your hand at a few? Start with an entry-level game and gradually work your way up to more complex ones. You can also visit local board game stores or cafes, where you’ll be able to sample different games and meet fellow enthusiasts. Remember, the journey through the world of board games is filled with fun, challenge, and excitement – enjoy the ride!
