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: Yellowstone

Yellowstone: Box Cover Front

Yellowstone is a game where you manage resources, place animals smartly, and time special actions to win. I’ve played it a bunch with friends and learned that planning ahead matters. If you want to know How To Play yellowstone, remember: collect, block, and laugh a lot while plotting against your buddies!

How To Play: Times

Times: Box Cover Front

If you want to crush your friends at Times, you need sharp card management, clever use of abilities, and a knack for reading their moves. With the rules, strategies, and a list of bits in the box (thanks to my group’s chaos), you’re set. Happy How To Play times!

How To Play: Titanic

Titanic: Box Cover Front

How To Play titanic is all about clever lifeboat moves, shrewd passenger rescues, and dodging icy doom. Set up your lifeboats early, grab high-value passengers, watch your rivals, and steer clear of icebergs. Stick to these tips and you might just out-captain your friends—without sinking the fun!

How To Play: Halloween

Halloween - Halloween, Quined Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

How To Play halloween is a fun mix of candy routes, costume picking, and ghost story timing. I learned quick wins like planning my route, picking a disguise with deep pockets, and telling spooky tales just when no one's watching the door. Trust me, it’s all treats and no tricks!

How To Play: Guardians

Guardians: Box Cover Front

Guardians is a tactical board game where picking the right heroes, timing your power moves, and fighting for key locations can win the day. I’ve had chaotic, hilarious games with friends, learning that reading How To Play guardians and focusing on strategy really gives you the upper hand (and bragging rights).