INTRODUCCIÓN
You’ve probably seen a group of friends or family gathered around a table, the air filled with dense excitement and laughter, as they strategically maneuver little pieces on a board. Or you’ve been a part of a stimulating afternoon or late-night session enmeshed in a fictional universe governed by dice, cards, or merely the pull of the players’ minds. Welcome! You’re wading into the extraordinary world of board games, a world as exciting and varied as the human imagination. Whether you’re a complete novice or dusting off an old hobby, this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through everything you need to know about board games.
WHAT ARE BOARD GAMES?
At the risk of oversimplifying, a board game can be defined as any game that includes a preset game board and requires players to move pieces around this board based on a set of rules. The origin of board games is steeped in antiquity, passing through historical eras and cultures – from the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt playing Senet to the strategic Go in East Asia. Board games encompass a broad spectrum from the simple and familiar (like Checkers or Monopoly) to the sprawling epic tales of conquest and adventure (like Game of Thrones: The Board Game). They are a way to explore complex settings and stories, sharpen strategic thinking, strengthen bonds, and have fun, of course!
HOW BOARD GAMES WORK / HOW TO GET STARTED
The concept of a board game is simple – follow the rules. Each game comes with a game board and rules that dictate movement and decision-making processes in the game. These rules describe which actions players can choose, how turns rotate among players, what each dice roll means, and how to achieve victory.
For example, in Chess, players are given control of a set of pieces each represented by a particular figure that has specific moving patterns. The game progresses in turns, and the objective is to checkmate the opponent’s king.
On the other hand, a game like Monopoly has a different setup where players circle around the board, buying and trading properties to accumulate wealth and potentially bankrupt opponents.
Each game has its unique context, but the first few steps to start with any game could be as simple as:
1. Unbox the game and set up the components as per the instructions.
2. Read through the rules or instruction sheet.
3. Decide the order in which players will take their turns.
4. Begin the game based on who goes first and follow the instructions for each turn.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY (SUPPLIES, GEAR, SETUP)
The essential thing you need to play a board game is the game itself, which comes as a box containing all the necessary components (game board, pieces, dice, cards, score sheets, and rules/ instructions). Occasionally, some games might need additional items like pencils, paper, or a timer – they’re usually common household items.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Start with simpler games: Board games range from very straightforward to monumentally complex. As a beginner, it’s best to start with games that have simpler rules.
2. Take your time: Don’t rush through the rules. They are your guideline to success and enjoyment.
3. Play with more experienced players: They can help narrate the instructions and provide tips.
4. Embrace losing: Don’t get discouraged if you lose the first few times. Learning is part of the fun.
5. View board games as a social experience: More than winning, it’s about having fun and connecting with others.
RECURSOS ÚTILES
Here are some resources that can help you on your board gaming journey:
1. Websites: BoardGameGeek, The Board Game Family
2. YouTube channels: Tolarian Community College, The Dice Tower
3. Communities: /r/boardgames on Reddit, Board Game Geek Forums.
GLOSARIO
– Game Board: The board on which pieces are placed and moved.
– Pieces: Also known as tokens, these represent players or teams on the board.
– Dice: A tool commonly used in board games to add an element of chance.
– Cards: These may serve several purposes, from dictating player actions to setting up the game’s scenario or challenges.
– Turns: The order in which players take actions during the game.
PRÓXIMOS PASOS
Diving into the world of board games doesn’t have to be daunting. As a starting point, choose a game that appeals to you and fits your comfort level. Visit a board game cafe or your local store, explore the options they have, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.
Remember, the world of board games is wide and wonderful, and the journey is more delightful than the destination. So pull up a chair, gather around the table, and let the games begin!
