Building Board Game Collections: A Global Guide for Enthusiasts

The world of board games is vast and ever-expanding, offering a delightful escape for players of all ages and backgrounds. Building a board game collection can be a rewarding journey, filled with exciting discoveries, strategic challenges, and unforgettable moments shared with friends and family. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to curate a collection that reflects your personal tastes, gaming preferences, and the diverse world of board games available globally.

Understanding Your Gaming Preferences

Before diving headfirst into acquiring games, it's crucial to understand your own gaming preferences. This self-assessment will guide your choices and ensure that your collection reflects your enjoyment and playing style.

1. Identifying Your Favorite Game Mechanics

Game mechanics are the core rules and systems that drive gameplay. Understanding which mechanics you enjoy will help you identify games that resonate with you. Here are some common and popular examples:

• Worker Placement: Players strategically allocate workers to different actions to gain resources, build structures, or trigger events. Examples: Agricola (Germany), Lords of Waterdeep (USA).
• Engine Building: Players construct a system that generates resources or points more efficiently over time. Examples: Terraforming Mars (Sweden), Wingspan (USA).
• Deck Building: Players start with a basic deck of cards and acquire new cards to improve their deck's capabilities. Examples: Dominion (Germany), Star Realms (USA).
• Dice Rolling: Dice rolls determine outcomes, adding an element of chance and excitement. Examples: Yahtzee (USA), King of Tokyo (Japan).
• Area Control: Players compete to control territory on the game board. Examples: Risk (France), El Grande (Spain).
• Cooperative: Players work together as a team to achieve a common goal. Examples: Pandemic (USA), Gloomhaven (USA).
• Negotiation: Players must bargain and trade to achieve their objectives. Examples: Catan (Germany), Diplomacy (USA).
• Bluffing: Players attempt to deceive their opponents about their true intentions. Examples: Coup (France), Resistance: Avalon (USA).

2. Exploring Different Game Themes

The theme of a game provides context and narrative, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Consider what themes you find most appealing:

• Fantasy: Magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests. Examples: Gloomhaven (USA), Magic: The Gathering (USA).
• Science Fiction: Space exploration, futuristic technology, and alien encounters. Examples: Terraforming Mars (Sweden), Twilight Imperium (USA).
• Historical: Recreating historical events or eras. Examples: 7 Wonders (Belgium), Through the Ages: A New Story of Civilization (Czech Republic).
• Horror: Suspense, terror, and survival against terrifying creatures. Examples: Arkham Horror: The Card Game (USA), Mansions of Madness (USA).
• Abstract: Purely strategic gameplay with minimal thematic elements. Examples: Chess (Ancient Origins), Go (Ancient Origins).
• Economic: Managing resources, building businesses, and maximizing profits. Examples: Puerto Rico (Germany), Brass: Birmingham (UK).

3. Considering Player Count and Game Length

Think about how many players you typically game with and how much time you have available. Some games are designed for solo play, while others require a larger group. Similarly, game lengths can vary from quick 15-minute fillers to epic all-day affairs.

• Solo Games: Games designed for a single player. Examples: Friday (Germany), Mage Knight Board Game (Czech Republic).
• Two-Player Games: Games specifically balanced for two players. Examples: 7 Wonders Duel (France), Patchwork (Germany).
• Party Games: Games designed for large groups, often with a focus on humor and social interaction. Examples: Codenames (Czech Republic), Wavelength (USA).

Exploring Board Game Genres

The board game hobby is often categorized into different genres. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular ones:

1. Eurogames

Eurogames, also known as German-style games, emphasize strategy, resource management, and minimizing luck. They often feature indirect player interaction and elegant game mechanics. Points are typically awarded for various achievements throughout the game.

Examples: Agricola (Germany), Puerto Rico (Germany), Terraforming Mars (Sweden), Wingspan (USA), 7 Wonders (Belgium), Catan (Germany).

2. Ameritrash Games

Ameritrash games prioritize theme, narrative, and direct player conflict. They often involve dice rolling, miniatures, and a greater element of chance. Immersion in the game's story is a key feature.

Examples: Twilight Imperium (USA), Arkham Horror: The Card Game (USA), Blood Rage (USA), Cosmic Encounter (USA), Eldritch Horror (USA).

3. Wargames

Wargames simulate military conflicts, ranging from historical battles to fictional wars. They often involve complex rules, detailed miniatures, and strategic maneuvering.

Examples: Axis & Allies (USA), Memoir '44 (France), Twilight Struggle (USA), Star Wars: Rebellion (USA).

4. Abstract Strategy Games

Abstract strategy games focus on pure strategy and logical thinking, with minimal or no thematic elements. They often involve perfect information and deterministic outcomes.

Examples: Chess (Ancient Origins), Go (Ancient Origins), Checkers (Ancient Origins), Azul (Portugal).

5. Cooperative Games

Cooperative games require players to work together as a team to overcome a common challenge. They often feature variable player powers and increasing difficulty.

Examples: Pandemic (USA), Gloomhaven (USA), Hanabi (Germany), Spirit Island (USA), The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine (Germany).

6. Party Games

Party games are designed for large groups and emphasize social interaction, humor, and quick gameplay. They often involve trivia, wordplay, or physical challenges.

Examples: Codenames (Czech Republic), Wavelength (USA), Telestrations (USA), Cards Against Humanity (USA), Concept (France).

7. Role-Playing Games (RPGs)

While technically not board games, RPGs often utilize miniatures, maps, and dice, and can be considered part of a broader tabletop gaming collection. They focus on storytelling, character development, and collaborative world-building.

Examples: Dungeons & Dragons (USA), Pathfinder (USA), Call of Cthulhu (USA), FATE (USA), GURPS (USA).

Acquisition Strategies: Building Your Collection

Once you have a better understanding of your preferences and the different genres, it's time to start building your collection. Here are some strategies for acquiring games:

1. Start with Gateway Games

Gateway games are easy to learn and play, making them perfect for introducing new players to the hobby. They often feature simple mechanics and engaging themes.

Examples: Catan (Germany), Ticket to Ride (USA), Carcassonne (Germany), Pandemic (USA), 7 Wonders (Belgium).

2. Research and Read Reviews

Before buying a game, take the time to research it and read reviews from other players. Websites like BoardGameGeek (BGG) are invaluable resources for finding information, ratings, and community discussions.

3. Attend Board Game Conventions and Events

Board game conventions and events offer opportunities to try out new games, meet other enthusiasts, and purchase games directly from publishers and retailers. Many countries host prominent board game conventions, like Essen Spiel in Germany, Gen Con in the USA, and UK Games Expo in the UK. These events are a great way to discover new titles and connect with the board game community.

4. Trade and Buy Used Games

Trading and buying used games is a cost-effective way to expand your collection. Online marketplaces and local game groups often facilitate trades and sales. Ensure to inspect used games carefully for missing pieces or damage before purchasing.

5. Support Local Game Stores

Local game stores (LGS) are vital hubs for the board game community. Supporting your LGS helps ensure that they can continue to provide access to games, organize events, and offer expert advice. Many LGS offer demo copies of games that you can try before you buy.

6. Consider Crowdfunding Platforms

Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Gamefound offer opportunities to back new and innovative board game projects. Backing a crowdfunding campaign can give you access to exclusive content and early access to games before they are released to retail. Be aware that crowdfunding involves risks, and there is no guarantee that a project will be successfully delivered.

7. Utilize Online Retailers

Online retailers offer a wide selection of board games at competitive prices. Many online retailers offer free shipping and discounts. Examples include Amazon, Miniature Market, and CoolStuffInc. (Note: Availability and shipping options vary by region.)

Organizing and Storing Your Collection

As your collection grows, it's important to organize and store your games effectively. Proper storage will protect your games from damage and make it easier to find the game you're looking for.

1. Shelving and Storage Solutions

Invest in sturdy shelving units to store your games. Consider using adjustable shelves to accommodate games of different sizes. Options include IKEA Kallax shelves, which are a popular choice among board game collectors due to their modular design and ample storage space.

2. Game Box Organizers and Inserts

Game box organizers and inserts help to keep game components organized within the box. These inserts often feature custom compartments for cards, tokens, and miniatures. Companies like Broken Token and Meeple Realty offer a wide range of game box organizers.

3. Protecting Game Components

Protect your game components from wear and tear by sleeving cards and storing tokens in resealable bags. Card sleeves prevent cards from getting bent, scratched, or stained. Token bags keep tokens organized and prevent them from getting lost.

4. Labeling and Inventory Management

Label your shelves or game boxes to make it easier to find the game you're looking for. Consider using a spreadsheet or online tool to keep track of your collection. This can help you avoid buying duplicates and keep track of which games you own.

Expanding Your Board Game Horizons

The board game hobby is constantly evolving, with new games being released every year. Here are some ways to stay up-to-date and expand your gaming horizons:

1. Follow Board Game News and Reviews

Stay informed about new game releases, industry news, and reviews by following board game websites, blogs, and social media channels. Websites like BoardGameGeek (BGG), Dicebreaker, and Shut Up & Sit Down provide comprehensive coverage of the board game hobby.

2. Join Online Communities and Forums

Connect with other board game enthusiasts by joining online communities and forums. These communities offer opportunities to discuss games, share recommendations, and find players for local game nights. BoardGameGeek (BGG) is a popular online forum for board game enthusiasts.

3. Attend Local Game Nights and Meetups

Participate in local game nights and meetups to try out new games and meet other players in your area. Local game stores and community centers often host game nights. Check online for local game groups in your area.

4. Explore Different Game Genres and Themes

Step outside of your comfort zone and explore different game genres and themes. You might discover a new favorite game that you never would have considered otherwise. Try a wargame if you typically play Eurogames, or an abstract strategy game if you prefer thematic games.

Conclusion

Building a board game collection is a personal journey that reflects your individual tastes and gaming preferences. By understanding your own interests, exploring different genres, and utilizing effective acquisition strategies, you can curate a collection that provides years of enjoyment. Remember to organize and store your games properly to protect them from damage and make them easily accessible. The board game hobby is a vibrant and ever-evolving community, so stay informed, connect with other enthusiasts, and continue to expand your gaming horizons. Happy gaming!