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: Fallout

Fallout - Fallout, Fantasy Flight Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

Fallout is a thrilling board game where character development, resource management, and quest navigation are key. Smart resource gathering, trading, and efficient use are crucial. Prioritize quests wisely, use fast travel, and keep an eye on quest levels. With these strategies, you can master the wasteland and win the game!

How To Play: Submarine

Submarine cover

Ahoy, fellow gamers! Master Submarine by focusing on three key strategies: smart underwater mine placement, expert resource management, and sharp enemy detection. Set up components, follow rules, and use sonar and patterns. Dominate the ocean, and show your friends how it's done. Happy gaming!

How To Play: Spies!

Spies!: Box Cover Front

Spies! is a wildly fun game where bluffing, timing, and reading intentions are key. My friends and I laughed, accused, and second-guessed our way through it. With rules easy enough to learn, focus on strategy: bluff well, watch others closely, and act at just the right moment.

How To Play: Planet of the Apes

Planet of the Apes - Planet of the Apes, IDW Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

Planet of the Apes is a tense, cooperative board game where smart resource management, teamwork, and careful event deck planning are key. My friends and I had a blast—just don’t forget, apes are tougher than they look! Check out How To Play planet of the apes for more tips!

How To Play: Simplicity

Simplicity: Box Cover Front

Simplicity is a light, fun board game where you manage resources, use clever card combos, and outplay others by picking the right turn order. The rules are easy to learn, but there’s plenty of room for sneaky strategies. With some luck and good friends, you’ll have a blast mastering How To Play simplicity.