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: Trains

Trains: Box Cover Front
In 'How To Play Trains', mastering deck building, route expansion, and station placement are key. The game includes over 500 cards, tokens, and a board for strategic play. Rules cover setup to winning strategies, emphasizing the need to adapt and experiment. Enjoyment and mastery go hand-in-hand in this engaging board game.

How To Play: Shakespeare

Shakespeare: Box Cover Front
Just wrapped up another game night, this time with 'Shakespeare'. We delved into character selection, nailed resource management, and rehearsed like pros. Who knew managing a troupe could be so wild? Better say, learning How to Play Shakespeare turned us all into drama queens. It's strategy, laughs, and a bit of luck.

How To Play: Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis cover
Photosynthesis is a strategic board game that thrives on managing light, placing trees wisely, and timing seed growth and tree upgrades. Mastering the sun's movement, blocking opponents, and choosing when to grow or harvest are key to winning. It's a balance of strategy, foresight, and sometimes, a bit of luck.

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.