INTRODUCTION
Welcome, potential board game enthusiast, to the captivating universe of strategy, intellect, and imagination! Whether you’re interested in an evening of family fun, revisiting an old hobby, or seeking a new social pastime, board games could be just what you’re looking for. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll delve deep into the exciting expanse of board games and help you navigate your way around.
WHAT ARE BOARD GAMES?
Board games are tabletop games that typically involve counters or pieces moved or placed on a pre-marked playing area or “board”, according to a set of rules. They originate from ancient times, each with unique storylines and differing objectives. Whether it’s a thrilling race to solve a mysterious murder in Cluedo, an exciting quest of building roadways in Settlers of Catan, or a mastermind’s strategic struggle for control in Risk, board games offer an array of gameplay experiences. In this increasingly digital age, board games guarantee a refreshing, unplugged interactive experience akin to video and online games, but requiring physical presence. They foster creativity, strategic thinking, communication, and interaction among players.
HOW BOARD GAMES WORK AND HOW TO GET STARTED
The exciting quotient of board games lies in their vibrant mix of strategy, chance, and competition. Here’s a simple breakdown of how typical board games work:
1. Setup: Spread the play area/board on a flat surface, and distribute the various game pieces among the players as per the game’s rules.
2. Rules: Each game comes with its unique set of rules, outlining the game-play, turn-taking order, scoring, winning conditions and penalties.
3. Gameplay: After understanding the rules, players take turns to perform actions like moving pieces, drawing cards, rolling dice, acting out charades, etc.
4. Objective: The objective of each game depends on its rules. It could range from acquiring the maximum points, reaching a specific spot first, or completing a certain task.
5. Winning: The player or team that first accomplishes the game’s objective wins.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
Depending on the game, you will need the game’s base set that typically includes the playing board, pieces/counters, cards, and a rule book. Optional but often handy tools could be a pencil and paper for scorekeeping, or a digital score keeping app. Also, it always helps to have snacks for those longer games!
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Start with simple games to get the hang of board games’ mechanics.
2. Thoroughly understand the rules before you start playing.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Board game communities are generally very welcoming and helpful.
4. Remember that board games are about having fun. Don’t get overly competitive.
5. Play a variety of games to find out what kind of games you enjoy the most.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
There are plenty of resources available to help you kickstart your board gaming journey. Websites such as BoardGameGeek offer reviews and guides. YouTube channels like ‘Tabletop’ and ‘Watch It Played’ provide visual guides on how to play various games.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Co-op Games: Games where players work cooperatively against the game itself.
2. Strategy Games: Games requiring critical thinking and planning.
3. Party Games: Light-hearted games designed for large gatherings.
4. Board: The playing surface.
5. Rules: The guidelines of how a game is played.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Now that you’ve got a basic understanding of board games, it’s time to get your hands on one. Begin with a simple, widely loved game like Ticket To Ride or Scrabble, to get a feel for board gaming. Remember, the world of board games is expansive and inclusive – there’s something for everyone. It’s about the journey, not just the game. So, get ready, set, game on!
