INTRODUCTION
If you’re new to the world of board games or returning after a long hiatus, welcome! This beginner-friendly guide is here to help. Board games have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years and offer endless hours of fun, strategic thinking, and social interaction. From the classics like Monopoly and Clue to modern favorites like Catan and Ticket to Ride, there’s something for everyone! Let’s dive in.
WHAT ARE BOARD GAMES?
At their core, board games are tabletop games that involve counters or pieces moved across a pre-marked surface or board, according to a set of rules. Originating from ancient civilizations, board games have evolved significantly over the centuries and now cover a broad range of genres, complexities, and play styles. While some use dice or cards to add a luck factor, others might be more strategy-based. The one commonality they share is gathering players around a table (or virtual table) for a shared, interactive experience.
HOW DO BOARD GAMES WORK/HOW TO GET STARTED
Playing a board game typically starts with setting up the game board and pieces, referring to the game’s rules or instruction manual. These rules, often found in a play guide or rulebook included with the game, will guide you on how to set up, what the objective is, and how each turn goes. For instance, in Monopoly, players start by choosing a token and placing it on the ‘Go’ space, then taking turns moving around the board, buying property, collecting rent, and seeking to bankrupt their opponents.
1. Choose your board game.
2. Review the rules: Each game has unique rules, objectives, and winning conditions.
3. Set up: This often involves laying out a board, distributing pieces or cards, or setting up other play materials.
4. Play: Turns are usually taken clockwise around the table with each player performing actions such as moving pieces, drawing cards, or implementing a strategy.
5. Winning: The game ends when a specific condition is met, usually outlined in the rules.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To start playing a board game, you first need the actual board game itself! This often includes a game board, tokens or pieces, and possibly dice or cards. Many board games also come with a rulebook or play guide. Some modern board games might incorporate technology and require an app or online tool. Games can range from simple and inexpensive to elaborate and pricier, but many great quality, beginner-friendly games are quite affordable.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Start simple: Pick games that are known for their easy setup and straightforward rules.
2. Play with patience: It takes time to understand the rules of a new board game.
3. Use online resources: Many websites and YouTube channels offer play-through videos and rule explanations.
4. Try before you buy: Many hobby shops have open copies of games you can try before buying.
5. Relax and have fun: Remember, the main goal of board games is to enjoy ourselves!
HELPFUL RESOURCES
There are several online resources to help you dive deeper into the world of board games. Websites like BoardGameGeek offer reviews, discussions, and ranking of games. YouTube channels such as Tabletop and Shut Up & Sit Down provide video tutorials and reviews. From Reddit to Discord, various online communities are also there to share tips, strategies and answer questions.
GLOSSARY – COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Turn: The period when one player can perform their actions.
2. Player Piece/Token: The object that represents the player on the board.
3. Dice: Cubic items with numbers or symbols on each side, often rolled to determine random outcomes.
4. Strategy: A plan of action designed to beat opponents or achieve the game’s objectives.
NEXT STEPS
Now that you’ve got a basic understanding of board games, it’s time to jump in and start playing! Consider visiting your local game shop or arranging a game night with friends. Be open to trying different types of games, and remember, the most important thing is to have fun. Welcome to your new favorite hobby!
