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: 7 Wonders – Setup, rule summary and strategy

7 Wonders: Box Cover Front

Quick Summary

In the engaging world of 7 Wonders, victory awaits those who strategize wisely and adapt tactically. Master the art of card drafting, efficiently manage your resources, select and utilize wonders strategically, navigate player interactions with finesse, and formulate effective endgame scoring strategies. By doing so, you can forge a civilization that dominates its rivals in military prowess, scientific advancements, or economic supremacy. As you progress through Ages I, II, and III, make impactful decisions, balance short-term gains with long-term goals, and obtain victory points from various sources. Observing opponents' choices, negotiating mutual benefits, blocking resource access, forging alliances, and capturing strategic moments are all crucial actions within this world of fierce competition. In the end, the empire that accumulates the most victory points, whether through military conquests, scientific breakthroughs, grand architectural wonders, or cunning guild card acquisitions, emerges triumphant. Prepare to embark on an enthralling civilization-building experience as you guide your civilization to success in the beautiful and strategic game of 7 Wonders.

How To Play: Dominant Species – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Dominant Species: Box Cover Front

Quick Summary

In this comprehensive strategy guide, we have explored the depths of Dominant Species, a captivating board game where players take on the role of different animal species to compete for dominance in an ever-changing world. From understanding the gameplay mechanics to developing effective strategies, we have covered it all.

Through species selection, players can tailor their approach to match their preferred playstyle, taking advantage of unique abilities and traits. Territory control becomes a vital aspect of the game as players fight for dominance and resources, manipulating the board to their advantage.

Alongside adaptation management, players can stay resilient and thrive amidst environmental changes, making strategic decisions to maximize their chances of survival. Resource optimization becomes crucial as players manage their assets, balancing efficiency and foresight in gathering and utilizing resources.

Lastly, opponent analysis adds an extra layer of complexity as players must study their rivals, predict their moves, and strategically counter their actions. As each round passes, players must carefully plan and adapt to the evolving ecosystem, aiming to accumulate the highest dominance score by the end of the game.

With this quick summary, you are now equipped with the knowledge and strategies to excel in Dominant Species. Forge your path to dominance with wit, strategy, and adaptability as you strive to become the ultimate victor in this immersive and engaging board game.

How To Play: Obsession

Obsession: Box Cover Front
To excel at Obsession, focus on Family Strategy, Card Synergy, and Event Management. Know the rules, key components, and special conditions. Use family traits, plan smart strategies, and balance goals. Master Victorian intrigue by leveraging cards and timing moves well. Embrace the game's quirks for ultimate success.

How To Play: The Voyages of Marco Polo – Setup, rule summary and strategy

The Voyages of Marco Polo: Box Cover Front

In The Voyages of Marco Polo, players embark on a thrilling journey of trade and exploration. Through engaging gameplay mechanics, immersive theme and artwork, high replayability, and exceptional component quality, this game offers an exceptional gaming experience. Players must strategically plan their actions, optimize their routes, manage their resources, and fulfill contracts to claim victory. The unique character abilities provide diverse strategies, while the dynamic board and randomized setups keep the gameplay fresh and exciting with each playthrough.

With meticulous action planning, resource management, route optimization, and successful contract fulfillment, players can chart their path to triumph. The premium components and stunning artwork elevate the visual appeal of the game, enhancing the immersive experience. The strategic depth, varied gameplay options, and captivating theme make The Voyages of Marco Polo a must-have for board game enthusiasts seeking adventure and challenge. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a strategy lover, or someone looking for a visually stunning and enjoyable game, The Voyages of Marco Polo offers an exceptional journey.

Set sail, embrace the spirit of Marco Polo, and conquer the game through wise decision-making and calculated moves. Enjoy the thrill of exploration and mastery as you embark on one of the most captivating gaming experiences offered by The Voyages of Marco Polo.

How To Play: Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island: Box Cover Front

Quick Summary

Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island is an immersive and challenging cooperative board game that takes players on a thrilling adventure. With its rich narrative, dynamic gameplay, and high replayability, it offers a captivating experience for both new and seasoned gamers.

In the game, players must navigate the treacherous island, gather resources, explore unknown areas, and overcome various obstacles. Collaboration and teamwork are key to survival, as players must strategize, share knowledge, and support each other throughout their journey.

Resource management, action prioritization, event card strategy, exploration, and discovery play critical roles in achieving victory. Optimizing these aspects will enhance your chances of success and aid in completing objectives, whether it be uncovering the mysteries of the island or surviving against all odds.

With its detailed components, engaging gameplay mechanics, and thematic immersion, Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island promises countless hours of excitement. Charting your own adventure on the island, overcoming challenges, and emerging triumphant is the ultimate goal.

So grab your fellow castaways, prepare your strategies, and set sail towards an extraordinary and unforgettable gaming experience with Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island!

How To Play: Beyond the Sun – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Beyond the Sun: Box Cover Front

Quick Summary

In Beyond the Sun, you will embark on a thrilling journey through the depths of space, vying for victory and domination. With its engaging gameplay mechanics, innovative technology tree progression, and strategic decision-making, this game offers a rich and immersive experience. Explore new technologies, manage your resources wisely, and interact with other players to gain an upper hand. The stunning art and aesthetics add a visual feast to the strategic complexities of the game. The high replayability factor ensures that no two games are the same, keeping players engaged in discovering new strategies and paths to victory. With its scalable player counts, Beyond the Sun is suitable for both intimate gatherings and larger gaming parties. Whether you choose to pursue technological convergence, military supremacy, or diplomatic hegemony, your choices will shape the destiny of your civilization. Prepare to navigate through a sea of options and make strategic decisions that will propel you towards triumph. Beyond the Sun is a stellar addition to any board game collection, offering a compelling combination of strategy, exploration, and negotiation with a touch of the cosmos.

How To Play: Lords of Waterdeep – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Lords of Waterdeep: Box Cover Front

Quick Summary

Lords of Waterdeep is a captivating and strategic tabletop game that invites players into the bustling city of Waterdeep. With its engaging gameplay mechanics, immersive theme, and high-quality components, the game provides an exceptional gaming experience.

In Lords of Waterdeep, players take on the role of influential Lords seeking to enhance their power and influence by completing quests. Through resource management, strategic agent placement, and the effective utilization of Intrigue cards, players must carefully navigate the city and outwit their opponents to gain maximum victory points.

The game offers a seamless blend of strategy and resource management, allowing players to allocate resources, complete quests, and enhance their Lords' abilities. The beautifully illustrated artwork and well-crafted components immerse players in the high fantasy world of Waterdeep, enhancing the thematic experience.

Lords of Waterdeep also boasts exceptional replayability, thanks to the various quest types, randomization of buildings, and the availability of expansion modules. The depth of strategy allows for adaptability and multiple paths to victory, keeping players engaged and coming back for more.

With its intuitive gameplay, strategic decision-making, and immersive theme, Lords of Waterdeep is a must-play game for both casual gamers and hardcore board game enthusiasts. Prepare to embark on an adventure through the city streets, complete quests, manipulate the fate of Waterdeep, and emerge as the most influential Lord!

How To Play: Fields of Arle – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Fields of Arle: Box Cover Front

Quick Summary

In Fields of Arle, you'll embark on a journey through the rural landscapes of Arle with the goal of accumulating victory points through strategic decision-making and resource management. This highly immersive and engaging board game offers an array of gameplay elements that will keep you captivated throughout.

From the careful placement of buildings to the intricate art of animal breeding, Fields of Arle offers a wealth of strategic possibilities. Plan your actions meticulously to optimize your resource management, engage in profit-generating trades, and breed animals to maximize your advantages.

Strive to construct buildings wisely, as they can provide access to unique skills and valuable bonuses. Consider the ever-changing game state and adapt your strategies accordingly, choosing the path that aligns with your objectives and offers the greatest advantage.

Fields of Arle presents a wealth of replayability, allowing you to explore different starting positions, modules, and tactics in each playthrough. With its in-depth gameplay, stunning artwork, and immersive thematic elements, it stands as a remarkable achievement in the world of board gaming.

In the end, it is your ability to manage resources, make shrewd decisions, and seize opportunities that will ultimately determine your success in Fields of Arle. Embrace the challenges, immerse yourself in the world of rural Germany, and strive for victory in this captivating and strategic board game experience.

How To Play: Teotihuacan: City of Gods – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Teotihuacan: City of Gods: Box Cover Front

Quick Summary

Teotihuacan: City of Gods is a captivating board game that combines strategy, resource management, worker placement, and technology advancements in a dynamic ancient civilization-themed setting. Players compete to earn the most prestigious points by strategically allocating their dice, constructing buildings, advancing on the pyramid, performing rituals, and decorating the avenue of the dead.

Mastering resource management is crucial for securing valuable assets, optimizing your actions, and staying ahead of your opponents. Effective worker placement allows for optimal utilization of action spaces and the advancement of strategies.

Unlocking technology advancements provides players with unique abilities and advantages in their pursuit of victory. Meanwhile, constructing buildings not only grants important resources but also contributes to overall prestige points.

Successful players navigate the avenues and carefully ascend the pyramid, leveraging its rewards and bonuses. Adorning the avenue of the dead with majestic masks adds ongoing effects and sets you on the path to victory.

As the game reaches its climax, players calculate their overall score based on prestige, masks, advancements, and various accomplishments. The player with the highest score emerges as the master of Teotihuacan.

With a perfect blend of challenging gameplay mechanics, immersive theme, and strategic decision-making, Teotihuacan: City of Gods offers an unforgettable journey into the ancient world.

How To Play: Through the Ages: A Story of Civilization – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Through the Ages: A Story of Civilization: Box Cover Front

Quick Summary

Through the Ages: A Story of Civilization is an epic, immersive board game that takes players on a thrilling journey through history. With its deep strategic gameplay, engaging mechanics, and intricate decision-making, it offers endless hours of excitement for both novice and experienced players alike. The game combines resource management, technological advancements, military conflicts, population growth, and cultural development to deliver a captivating experience where players can shape the destiny of their civilizations.

This comprehensive strategy guide has provided valuable insights and techniques to help players excel in Through the Ages. From effectively managing resources, researching technologies, and honing military strategies, to nurturing population growth and cultural development, players can employ well-rounded strategies to increase their chances of victory. Whether aiming for cultural supremacy, scientific innovations, or military dominance, this guide equips players with the tools they need to thrive.

Through the Ages: A Story of Civilization is a masterpiece of board game design and promises an unforgettable gaming experience. With its exceptional depth, high replayability, and a variety of strategic choices, players will find themselves immersed in a world where civilizations rise and fall. Prepare to challenge the course of history and carve your civilization's name in the annals of time through strategic brilliance and tactical mastery in Through the Ages: A Story of Civilization.