“A Beginner’s Guide to Board Games: Understanding Different Terms and Genres” is a comprehensive article designed to provide newcomers with an introduction to the world of board gaming. It acknowledges that board gaming is an inclusive and enjoyable activity for everyone, regardless of their level of experience. The article emphasizes the existence of a specific jargon and a wide range of genres within the board gaming community. It highlights key types of board games such as abstract games, area control games, campaign/legacy games, and many more, noting that each type boasts its own unique mechanics and gameplay elements. The article also acknowledges that some board games can fall into multiple categories or combine different types, making them even more versatile and exciting. Overall, this guide serves as a helpful starting point for individuals interested in understanding and exploring the diverse array of board games available.
Abstract Games
Definition
abstract games are a category of board games that prioritize strategic thinking and do not rely on any specific theme or narrative. They often have simple rules and focus on the mental challenge of gameplay. These games typically involve pure strategy and do not include elements like luck or chance. Abstract games are highly regarded for their deep strategic depth and can be enjoyed by both casual and competitive players.
Examples
Some popular examples of abstract games include Chess, Go, and Checkers. These games have been played for centuries and are known for their simplicity of rules and complexity of strategy. Another example is Hive, a game where players strategically move insect-shaped tiles on a hexagonal grid to capture the opponent’s queen bee.
Mechanics
Abstract games rely on various mechanics to create engaging gameplay. One common mechanic is grid movement, where players take turns moving their pieces on a grid or board. Another mechanic is pattern recognition, where players must identify strategic patterns in order to outmaneuver their opponents. Some abstract games also include elements of area control, where players compete to dominate specific sections of the game board.
Area Control Games
Definition
area control games are board games that focus on players competing for control over specific territories or areas on the game board. These games often involve conflict and strategy as players maneuver their pieces strategically to gain dominance over regions.
Examples
One example of an area control game is Risk, a classic game where players take on the roles of world leaders and strive to conquer territories on a world map. Another example is Small World, in which players control fantasy races and battle for control over various regions on a modular game board.
Mechanics
Area control games typically involve mechanics such as territory placement, where players strategically position their pieces to claim or defend specific areas. They may also include combat mechanics, where players engage in battles to determine control over contested regions. Resources and strategic alliances can also play a role in area control games, adding complexity and depth to gameplay.
Campaign/Legacy Games
Definition
Campaign or legacy games are a type of board game that incorporates a persistent narrative or ongoing storyline. These games often involve multiple sessions or playthroughs, with the actions and choices made in previous games impacting future gameplay.
Examples
Pandemic Legacy: Season 1 is an example of a campaign/legacy game. In this cooperative game, players work together to stop the spread of diseases and progress through a series of interconnected scenarios. Choices made in earlier games affect subsequent games, leading to a unique and evolving experience for each group of players.
Mechanics
campaign/legacy games utilize mechanics that allow for ongoing narratives and evolving gameplay. They often feature a branching storyline, where player choices and actions determine the direction of the narrative. Legacy games also incorporate elements of legacy mechanics, where components of the game are permanently altered or added as the campaign progresses.
Deckbuilder Games
Definition
Deckbuilder games, also known as deck-building games, are board games that involve constructing a personal deck of cards throughout the course of the game. Players start with a basic deck and gradually acquire new cards to enhance their strategies and abilities.
Examples
Dominion is a widely known deckbuilder game in which players strive to build a deck of cards that generates valuable resources and victory points. Another example is Star Realms, a science fiction-themed deckbuilder game where players compete to reduce their opponent’s health by strategically playing cards from their personal decks.
Mechanics
The main mechanics of deckbuilder games revolve around deck construction and card management. Players typically start with a small deck containing basic cards and gradually add more powerful cards as the game progresses. The challenge lies in balancing the acquisition of new cards with the need for synergy and efficiency within the deck.
Deck Construction Games
Definition
Deck construction games, also known as customizable card games, are board games that involve building a personalized deck of cards before gameplay begins. Unlike deckbuilder games where the deck is built during gameplay, deck construction games require players to construct their decks beforehand.
Examples
Magic: The Gathering is considered one of the most popular deck construction games. Players build their decks using cards from their own collection or from a pool of cards available for purchase. Another example is Yu-Gi-Oh!, a trading card game where players strategically select cards from the vast pool of available options to create their decks.
Mechanics
Deck construction games typically involve a phase where players choose and customize their decks before the game starts. Players must carefully select cards that synergize well with each other and develop strategies based on the strengths and limitations of their chosen cards. These games often have a large variety of cards and allow for extensive customization and strategic diversity.
Dexterity Games
Definition
Dexterity games are a genre of board games that require physical skill and coordination. Players engage in activities that involve precise movement or manipulation of game pieces, often challenging their motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Examples
Jenga is a classic example of a dexterity game, where players take turns removing wooden blocks from a tower and placing them on top without causing the tower to collapse. Another example is Crokinole, a tabletop game where players flick discs across a circular board with the goal of landing them in the highest-scoring areas.
Mechanics
Dexterity games primarily focus on physical interaction with game components. The mechanics often involve balancing, stacking, flicking, or throwing objects to achieve specific objectives. These games require manual dexterity, precision, and sometimes even speed to succeed.
Drafting Games
Definition
Drafting games, also known as card drafting games, are board games that involve players selecting cards or other resources from a common pool to build their strategies. Players take turns choosing their preferred cards, and the remaining cards are passed to the next player for further selection.
Examples
7 Wonders is a popular drafting game where players aim to build their civilizations by strategically selecting cards representing different structures and wonders. Sushi Go! is a lighter, family-friendly drafting game where players compete to create the most appealing sushi combinations by drafting cards with various sushi ingredients.
Mechanics
In drafting games, players often make choices based on the immediate benefits of the selected cards and their long-term strategies. The mechanics involve selecting and passing cards, creating a unique combination of luck and strategic decision-making. Drafting games often require players to adapt to the changing pool of available cards and the choices made by other players.
Dungeon-Crawler Games
Definition
Dungeon-crawler games are a type of board game that simulates exploring and battling in a dungeon-like environment. Players typically control a group of adventurers who navigate through a modular game board, encountering traps, monsters, and treasures along the way.
Examples
One classic example of a dungeon-crawler game is HeroQuest, where players take on the roles of different hero characters and embark on quests, battling monsters and collecting treasure. Another popular example is Gloomhaven, a cooperative game that offers a sprawling campaign with detailed scenarios, character progression, and deep tactical combat.
Mechanics
Dungeon-crawler games often feature modular game boards that represent different rooms or sections of the dungeon. Players move their characters on the board, revealing tiles, resolving encounters, and engaging in combat with enemies. These games may incorporate unique combat mechanics, character progression, and storytelling elements to provide immersive dungeon exploration experiences.
Engine-Builder Games
Definition
Engine-builder games, also known as tableau-building games, are board games that require players to construct and optimize a “engine” or a strategic mechanism that generates resources or benefits over time. Players strategically play cards or acquire components that synergize to create a powerful engine.
Examples
Race for the Galaxy is an example of an engine-builder game where players develop a galactic civilization by playing cards that represent planets, developments, and technologies. Another example is Splendor, a game where players collect gem cards to purchase more valuable cards that enhance their gem-collecting capabilities.
Mechanics
In engine-builder games, players focus on creating efficient systems that generate resources or trigger advantageous actions. The gameplay mechanics often involve card drafting, resource management, and strategic decision-making to maximize the effectiveness of the constructed engine. These games reward players for long-term planning and optimization.
Wargames
Definition
Wargames are a genre of board games that simulate military conflicts and strategic warfare. These games often involve historical settings, intricate rulesets, and a focus on strategic decision-making and tactical movements.
Examples
One classic example of a wargame is Axis & Allies, where players command armies and navies to simulate World War II battles. Twilight Struggle is another example, focusing on the Cold War era and the geopolitical tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union.
Mechanics
Wargames typically feature detailed rulesets that simulate a wide range of military tactics and warfare strategies. These may include movement and positioning of units, combat resolution, resource management, and strategic decision-making. Wargames often require careful planning, coordination, and a deep understanding of historical or thematic context to achieve victory.
In summary, board games offer a diverse range of experiences and genres to cater to different player preferences. From abstract games that emphasize strategic thinking to wargames that simulate military conflicts, each type of game brings unique mechanics and gameplay elements to the table. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, exploring different types of board games can provide endless enjoyment and help expand your gaming horizons.
