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: Trade

Trade: Box Cover Front

Trade is a fast trading game where players collect goods, swap resources, and plan clever deals. Each turn, you must weigh your current stash against future gains while watching what rivals want. Make smart trades, build your wealth, and finish with the most valuable collection to win.

How To Play: War and Peace

War and Peace: Box Cover Front

War and Peace is a tense strategy game where players lead armies, manage resources, build alliances, and fight for control. Each turn brings tough choices: advance, defend, negotiate, or save supplies. Plan ahead, watch your rivals, and pick battles carefully to claim victory without wrecking your own side.

How To Play: Top Ten

Top Ten - Top Ten, Cocktail Games, 2020 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

Top Ten is a party game where players answer a silly prompt with a number from one to ten. One player, the Captain, then puts everyone’s answers in order from low to high. The team wins by getting the sequence right, though wildly creative clues often cause the funniest disasters.

How To Play: Picture Perfect

Picture Perfect: Box Cover Front

Picture Perfect is a deduction game where players arrange guests around a photographer, using clues to work out who belongs where. Each player secretly chases photo goals, so clever placement matters twice. Read the hints, swap people when needed, and check your final scene before scoring the best-looking—and best-planned—picture.

How To Play: Dolmen

Dolmen: Box Cover Front

Dolmen starts with learning the rules, checking components, and planning moves. Manage resources carefully, study enemy patterns, hold strong positions, and choose gear that fits your build. After playing with friends, I found patience beats panic. Practice, prepare for bosses, and spend upgrades wisely to survive.