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: Evolution

Evolution: Box Cover Front

Evolution is all about managing species traits, balancing food supply, and adapting to opponents. Understand the rules, adapt quickly, observe opponents, and prioritize food sources. Play smart combos and stay flexible. Personal anecdotes add fun, and always keep the core rules in mind. Happy gaming!

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

Tribune - Tribune, Spielworxx, 2020 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

Our comprehensive strategy guide dives into the heart of Tribune, unfolding strategies around Faction Control, Resource Management, and the nuanced art of Alliances and Betrayals. With insight into game setup, rules, and winning conditions, readers will discover paths to victory and ways to outmaneuver opponents.

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

Quick Summary

AuZtralia fuses farming, combat, and resource management into a wild ride against Lovecraftian foes. Plan your moves, keep an eye on time, and don’t let the Old Ones crash your farm party! I had a blast figuring out How To Play auztralia with my buddies. Try it out!

How To Play: Mexica

Mexica cover

Mexica is all about clever district placement, sneaky canal and bridge tactics, and perfect timing for scoring moves. Our group once blocked each other so hard, someone almost flipped the table! Learn How To Play mexica well, and you’ll soon be laughing (and maybe cackling) your way to victory.