Jamie in his proper element: With all of his board games

Jamie Hopkins

With years of dice-rolling, card-flipping, and strategic planning under my belt, I've transformed my passion into expertise. I thrive on dissecting the mechanics and social dynamics of board games, sharing insights from countless game nights with friends. I dive deep into gameplay mechanics, while emphasizing the social joys of gaming. While I appreciate themes and visuals, it's the strategy and camaraderie that truly capture my heart.

How To Play: Cuba

Cuba: Box Cover Front

In Cuba, winning hinges on mastering resource management, influencing legislation, optimizing trade, and making smart building choices. The game challenges players with a mix of strategy and adaptability. Success comes from balancing economic growth with political savvy, ensuring your strategy aligns with current laws, market demands, and building an efficient engine.

How To Play: AuZtralia

AuZtralia - AuZtralia, SchilMil Games/Stronghold Games, 2018 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

AuZtralia is a wild mix of farming, fighting, and chaos. Manage your resources, plan your attacks, and watch the clock every turn. Balancing growth with defense is key. Use this 'How To Play auztralia' guide for smarter moves, less panic, and maybe, just maybe, your first Cthulhu-free victory.

How To Play: Mexica

Mexica cover

Mexica is a sharp area control game where you build canals, divide districts, and place temples to score points. Plan your canals well, don't make districts too big or small, and block your rivals! How To Play mexica: think ahead, move smart, and don’t let your friends outfox you.

How To Play: Woodcraft – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Woodcraft: Box Cover Front

This guide has covered the essential aspects of playing Woodcraft effectively, from strategic base building and resource management to mastering combat and defense. The rules of Woodcraft were outlined emphasizing game setup, gameplay, winning strategies, and special conditions to give beginners a solid starting point.