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: The Hunger

The Hunger - The Hunger, Origames / Renegade Game Studios, 2021 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

Summary

The Hunger is a thrilling vampire race where players draft cards, plan routes, and juggle hunger against points. Smart card choices, knowing when to return, and watching opponents are key. I laughed, cursed my luck, and learned: never run out of pizza (or blood) on game night!

How To Play: RoadKill

Roadkill - Roadkill, Helvetiq, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

RoadKill is a crazy fun card game where smart card management, blocking, and pulling off wild combos win the day. Learn the rules fast, watch your rivals, and strike with perfect timing. Adapt your tactics, play to your strengths, and remember—sometimes you’re the squished, sometimes you’re the squasher!

How To Play: Kompromat

Kompromat: Box Cover Front

Kompromat is a clever 2-player card game where you play as secret agents. You need to balance risk, count cards, and bluff well. My friends and I laughed (and accused each other of being spies) as we learned how to play Kompromat. Manage your moves to win without blowing your cover!

How To Play: Amalfi

Amalfi: Box Cover Front

Amalfi is all about clever harbor and ship placement, smart card management, and nailing trade routes. I learned quick decisions and blocking friends is key! The rules are easy to follow, but the strategy runs deep. If you want to master How To Play amalfi, keep your plans flexible and your ships busy.

How To Play: High Ground

High Ground: Box Cover Front

How To Play high ground mixes clever positioning, sharp timing, and ability combos. Guess what your opponent will do and throw in some sneaky moves. The game has clear rules and simple components, but strategy shines brightest. Laugh, argue, and pull off wild combos—just don’t fall off the high ground!