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: Taurus – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Taurus - Taurus, LudoArt Verlag, 2008 — front cover - Credit: W Eric Martin

Mastering Taurus requires a blend of strategy, from understanding card combinations and optimal bull tile placement to effective resource management. Whether it's getting to know the game components, diving deep into the gameplay, or adopting various strategic angles, success hinges on adaptability, planning, and, most importantly, enjoying the journey.

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

Maestro: Box Cover Front

Jamie breaks down the essentials of becoming a How To Play maestro, from first learning the game's rules to mastering strategies. Revealing tips on starting hand management, mid-game tempo, and end-game scoring. Concluding with sage advice on strategy adaptation, and the importance of enjoying every game with friends.

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

Leo: Box Cover Front

This quick guide on 'How To Play Leo' dives into the essentials—understanding Leo's movement, optimizing power-up collection, and timing jumps and attacks. It also outlines the game's components, rules, and wraps up with strategic tips for victory. A must-read for those looking to master the game.

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

Power: Box Cover Front

Jamie shares insights on playing POWER, focusing on mastering resource management, observing opponents, and endgame tactics. Through personal experiences and humorous anecdotes, he outlines the importance of predicting moves, securing key positions, and making the most out of every turn to navigate towards victory with friends.

How To Play: Bonnie and Clyde – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Bonnie and Clyde: Box Cover Front

This guide dives deep into the heart of Bonnie and Clyde, discussing strategies from understanding character roles, managing cards effectively, and planning movements strategically. It covers everything from game setup to winning strategies, reflecting on personal gameplay experiences and emphasizing the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking.

How To Play: Blue Skies – Setup, rule summary and strategy

Blue Skies - Blue Skies, Rio Grande Games, 2020 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

Mastering Blue Skies demands a keen focus on airport control, astute passenger flow management, and predicting opponents' moves. By selecting high-traffic airports, expanding gates wisely, and planning for long-term growth, players can navigate their way to victory. Implementing these strategies will garner success in the competitive skies.

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

Moon: Box Cover Front

This guide dives deep into winning Moon, from mastering resource management and crafting winning team compositions to prioritizing objectives correctly. It covers setup, gameplay, and special rules under 'How To Play Moon: Rules Summary'. Concluding, it stresses adaptability, strategy, and fun in mastering Moon for gamers.