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: Amazons

Amazons: Box Cover Front

Amazons blends strategy and foresight. Master board control, prediction skills, and movement strategies to dominate opponents. Understand game rules, components, and tactics through detailed guides. Achieve victory by seizing the center, managing choke points, and anticipating opponent moves. Perfect your skills with practice and strategic adjustments.

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

Thebes cover

Mastering How To Play Thebes involves a clever blend of strategic excavation planning, optimal use of each week, savvy location choices, and a touch of luck. This guide combines these elements, infused with personal play experiences, ensuring beginners not only grasp the game's nuances but also step towards victory.

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

Tobago: Box Cover Front

Learning How To Play Tobago involves understanding strategic treasure placement, utilizing amulets wisely, anticipating opponent moves, comprehending rules and winning strategies, and procuring necessary components. This adventure game is a delightful mix of strategy, luck, and group dynamics, offering a comprehensive and engaging experience for players.

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

Torres - Torres, HUCH! & friends/IDW Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

Getting into How To Play Torres involves understanding the ballet of strategic planning, utilizing action points efficiently, and mastering the art of positioning your knights on higher towers. Don’t forget the clever use of cards to outmaneuver your friends. Each game offers a delightful mix of tactics and laughter, truly a memorable experience.