Deck-Building

These games involve constructing a deck of cards over the course of the game. Examples include “Dominion,” “Legendary: A Marvel Deck Building Game,” and “Ascension.”

Platypus - Platypus, Matagot, 2021 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.5/5

Platypus Review

Played Platypus with friends last weekend and we couldn't stop laughing. It's easy to learn but packed with strategy. Every game felt new! It's not all luck, which I love. Despite a few minor hiccups, it's a solid 4.5 stars.

Split - Split, Jumbo, 2022 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4/5

Split Review

Split boggles and delights. My mates and I dove into its chaos, laughing as plans went awry. Yet, skill often trumps luck. It's not perfect—some cards feel overpowered. Still, it's a hoot. Solid 4/5 from us.

Ocean - Front Cover - Credit: waza
Rating: 4/5

Ocean Review

Played 'Ocean' with my buddies, and oh boy, it was a splash! Gorgeous art, clever gameplay, but luck can rock your boat. Yet, it's a game we'll dive back into. Perfect for those who fancy a strategic swim.

Nefarious: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Nefarious Review

'Nefarious' is a blast, mixing mad science with sneaky strategy. The twist cards keep every game fresh. It's mostly fair, but luck can sting. Still, it's a hit on game night. A solid 4 stars!

Clubs: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.8/5

Clubs Review

'Clubs' hits the sweet spot with its perfect mix of strategy and luck, ensuring laughs and competitive banter. It's a must-have for game nights, promising endless fun. Just don't let the cards outsmart you!

Renfield: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Renfield Review

Renfield turns a simple hidden-role game into a tense hunt full of sneaky deals and sudden betrayals. Luck can nip at your heels, but sharp players still have room to scheme, bluff, and win.

Ranger: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Ranger Review

Ranger blends smart choices, fair tension, and enough chaos to keep every turn lively. My friends and I found ourselves planning hard, laughing often, and blaming the dice only a little.

Colorado - Colorado, Sylex, 2023 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4/5

Colorado Review

Colorado packs route planning, cheeky player blocking, and just enough luck to keep every turn tense. It rewards smart choices without turning game night into a spreadsheet funeral.

Coffee: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Review

Coffee serves up a cosy little strategy game with simple rules, tasty choices, and enough replay value to keep your group brewing another round.

Carnival: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Carnival Review

Carnival turns simple fairground fun into a clever contest. My friends and I loved the bright theme, fair luck, and quick turns, though the table got a bit messy.