INTRODUCTION
Board games are a deeply ingrained component of human culture, evolving with us from the crude stone game pieces of our ancient ancestors to the sophisticated, rule-intensive gaming systems we enjoy today. As a perfect blend of entertainment, social bonding, and mental stimulation, these wonders of ingenuity have never entirely gone out of fashion. However, with the recent resurgence of tabletop gaming, you might be considering diving into the world of board games, or perhaps are a returning player who’s felt the call of the cardboard. Either way, this beginner-friendly guide is the perfect resource to get you started.
WHAT ARE BOARD GAMES?
A board game, in its basic form, is a game that involves pieces or counters that are moved or placed on a pre-marked surface, typically a flat panel known as a game board, according to a set of rules. With origins dating back to 3500 BC, these games have spanned cultures and civilizations, from the strategic ‘Go’ in ancient China to ‘Pachisi’ in classic India or ‘Senet’ in ancient Egypt.
Today’s board games offer a wide range of themes, complexity, and styles. Strategy games such as Chess or Risk require careful planning and tactical prowess, while social-focused games like Codenames or Dixit rely on communication and creativity. There are mystery games like Clue, fantasy-filled adventures like Dungeons & Dragons, or economic juggernauts like Monopoly. Each variety offers a unique experience and caters to different preferences and playstyles.
HOW TO START WITH BOARD GAMES
Playing a board game revolves around understanding the game’s purpose, mastering its rules, and devising winning strategies. Here are the steps to get started:
1. Choose a game – Seek out board games that fit your interests and the group you’ll play with.
2. Understand the rules – Most games include a rulebook. Read through it carefully, or watch tutorial videos online.
3. Set it up – Lay out the game board and pieces as instructed in the rulebook for the game setup.
4. Learn how to play – Figure out how turns work, what you can do on your turn, and how to win.
5. Play the game – Start the game by following the turn order until there’s a winner.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY BOARD GAMES
Playing board games typically needs minimal supplies:
1. The game itself: Many board games come as complete kits including a game board, game pieces or tokens, dice or cards, and rulebooks.
2. Players: While some games cater to solo players, most board games are meant for two or more, ideally four to six participants.
3. Time: Depending upon the complexity, a game can last from a few minutes to several hours.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Start simple: Start with easier games to understand the mechanics of board games.
2. Learn the lingo: Learn basic terminologies like ‘turn’, ’round’, ‘deck’, ‘token’, ‘die’, etc.
3. Practice makes perfect: Don’t be discouraged if you don’t win in the beginning.
4. Patience is key: Learning and mastering a board game can take time. Don’t give up!
5. Have fun: Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
1. ‘BoardGameGeek’ is a comprehensive site for all things board game-related.
2. YouTube channels like ‘Tabletop’ and ‘The Dice Tower’ provide in-depth reviews, playthroughs, and tips.
3. Communities like /r/boardgames on Reddit or Board Game Geek Discord groups offer forums for discussions, advice, and finding other players.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Turn: A player’s period of action.
2. Round: A sequence in which all players have taken a turn.
3. Strategy: The long-term plan a player uses to achieve success.
4. Rulebook: The printed rules and instructions for the game.
5. Dice(plural of die): Cubes marked with dots numbering one to six, or specific game-related designations.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Now that you’ve gotten a glimpse of the world of board games, it’s time to dive in deeper. Visit your local game store, try out a few different game styles, or join a local board game group. If you’re hesitant about investing in a game just yet, consider playing online versions or using game simulators. Above all, remember that the world of board games is vast and varied. Enjoy the journey, and happy gaming!
