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I love Forbidden Island. It was the game that got me gaming! I still take it out and play. But every now and then, I want something a little more… death defying.

Is it Pretty?
So pretty. So, so pretty. Just like it’s Forbidden Island, this desert is gorgeous. Every tile, component and card is lovingly made. I know this is supposed to be a dangerous and unforgiving wasteland, but I would still love to visit this underground ruin. It even comes with a little ship! They could have just told us we were making a ship, but they gave it to us! From cover to the instructions, this is a great looking game.

Who’s it For?
People who enjoyed Forbidden Island and thought it was too simple. Or maybe people who like Pandemic but think it’s too hard. For families and friends who like working together. And you do have to work together, because it’s not a cake walk. You’ll find yourself closer to death than you’d care for. Like Island, this game feels like an adventure so if that’s what you’re looking for its right here.

Why is it in My Collection?
Because I love games that feel like an adventure and allow for a sense of role playing, without requiring it. This is a game that allows for this story,
We had collected all the pieces and were making our way to escape the desert and my wife was the only player left to get to the home tile. She used her turn to to make her way to us. But then she had to draw the desert shift cards and the tile she’s standing on gets moved, further away from us! From across the desert (table) I yell out to her but there’s nothing I can do. Thankfully, her brother has a jet pack and saves her! But for that one moment, all I could see was the sand storm coming down on us.
End story.

So many games are about four or more players that it can be rough to find a one balanced for just two people. Jaipur finds that balance and keeps it well, never outstaying it’s welcome. You’ll be surprisingly invested in your hand and goods, and equally upset when the other player steals the cards you were going to grab in just another turn or two…

Is it Pretty?
The components look great. You have all the goods in little pieces that have nice weight and even better visuals, the cards are all colorful and a good size. It’s a simply designed game with great personality done with very little but you won’t be disappointed by what you see. And the box itself is great! So small yet effective!

Who’s it For?
Couples. People who are looking for a nice lunch game. Those of us without tens of friends available for games all the time. It’s also good for those familiar with card games like Phase 10 and Dutch Blitz. It really is a good two player, since the rounds go by so fast.

Why is it in My Collection?
Because I’m married. It’s not always easy to find a good game for just my wife and I, since many don’t play well with less than four. But Jaipur fills that gap and gives us something to play on random evenings. It’s not a bunch of pieces we have to clean up, it’s a simple card game that we play two out of three and enjoy our night. There’s strategy to it, but it easy to learn with just the two of you.

People tend to call games like Ticket to Ride a gateway game, akin to Settlers of Catan and Power Grid. But I think, more than the others, Ticket has the feel of an older game, while still being a fun addition to even the most complicated and hardcore collection.

Is it Pretty?
The big playing board is nice, nothing too fancy. You’ve got your tracks, your basic country layout, a score tracker. It’s not overly busy, focusing on the core game play. It does give the game a sketchy map feel that helps cement the setting. The cards are easy to read and decipher, the pieces are plastic. Again, nothing beautiful but it gets the job done.

Who’s it For?
More so than any other game I’ve played, this game seems like the perfect gateway game for non-gamers. It feels like a game that would sit with Monopoly or Clue, it has such a classic feel to it. It’s a game you can play with your parents and they wouldn’t even wonder where you found this thing. Luckily, it’s also fun so you’ll enjoy it too!

Why is it in My Collection?
This was one of the games my wife wanted me to get for a while. I’m glad I did, because it’s a lot of fun. It’s a game I bring to family events because I know it will be easy to teach and go over well with the crowd. I like the game play and wish I was better at seeing other people’s plans, but I’m always so focused on my own tracks, I miss the chance to mess up theirs.

As long as all these hidden role and bluffing games keep trying to be different from one another, I’ll happily play along. Sheriff of Nottingham is familiar and different all at once to gamers. The components are great, the rules are simple enough and once your group gets into it, it’s a whole lot of fun being a two-faced liar.

Is it Pretty?
The artwork is great. The boards are well done, the cards are easy on the eyes, you even get a sheriff piece to pass along. It all looks great, but what I think really hits the mark is the personality and tone. The look of the game sells the sense that you’re trying to get goods (and not-so-goods) through a seedy and unjust market. And those contraband cards look so tempting…

Who’s it For?
Bluffing, lying, cheating friends and family who will look you in the eye and swear up and down they only have apples in their bag. If you’ve played hidden role games like the Resistance, One Night Ultimate Werewolf, or Bang!, you’ll feel right at home. Also, most people have played BS once in their life, and as soon as they realize this game in similar, they jump right on to the wagon.

Why is it in My Collection?
Because I have found I really like bluffing games, even when I’m not very good at them. I think part of it is that they’re easy to teach and play, because it’s just relying on your friends to lie to your face. I like being able to bribe the sheriff to look in someone else’s bag and I like the power and fear that comes with opening another player’s bag and hearing that definitive ‘snap’. A great game that I’ve only had for a short time but have played plenty of already.

7 Wonders scratches that Age of Empires itch I always seem to have. I love playing with large groups of people, even though five is just right. I love introducing this to new people, because it’s always guaranteed to get them playing a second or third game right after. Also, spoiler warning, it looks great.

Is it Pretty?
This game is gorgeous. The player boards, with the seven civilizations on them, are beautiful and give you a sense of personality for each wonder. The cards, in which there are many, are all rendered with great art, that gives you a real sense of what you’re building. Even though this game is just a collection of cards spread out on the table, you’ll still like looking at your city as grows, because it just looks so good. Who thought a lumber yard could be so pretty?

Who’s it For?
Groups, for one. People who don’t mind needing to play a second or third time to really understand the game. But once they do, they’ll really like it, especially since games are so quick. This is a great way to introduce new players to deck building, because it’s a little less vicious than it could be, at least at first. Everyone I’ve played this with likes it, so it’s great for casual or more experienced gamers.

Why is it in My Collection?
I like deck builders, so far. But I think the big reason I grabbed this game is because it reminds me of Age of Empires and Civilization, but in gorgeous card-form and in only thirty minute segments. The fact that there are so many ways to score points is nice too, even if I’m more likely to go for the military victory. It’s just a well done, large group allowing card game that’s fun in how hectic it can feel even when just politely passing hands around the table.

Dixit has been on my radar since I first read about the concept. Describe your card, but not too well or others will stop you from getting any points. Find a card from your hand to match your friend’s crazy clue but again while trying to guess his card? All matched with some of the greatest art I’ve ever seen in a board game? Goodness, this game was made for writers, artist, dreamers, people who like being happy and myself.

Is it Pretty?
Oh. My. Word. It’s gorgeous. Considering everything about this game is visual, it was important that the art do it’s job and boy, does it. Every card is like a cross between Salvador Dali and Roald Dahl. The art is very surreal and works on multiple levels that make you need to look twice or more to really see what’s going on. This is great when another player uses a clue you weren’t prepared for and now you have to pull a card out of your hand. Plus, the player figures are little rabbits. Try to be cynical when moving a rabbit. I dare you.

Who’s if For?
This game got my mother-in-laws approval after one play through. In fact, she plans to buy it for her own collection, so that’s a good sign. My wife likes this game, my family liked the game, I love the game. Coming up with weird sounds or titles or whatever to describe but not completely describe a card is tons of fun. This game has personality to spare and is really a great use of imagination. Lots of games have you trying to be creative by working around the rules, this game is forcing you to be creative all the time.

Why is it in My Collection?
Because I think games like this should be played by everyone, even those who don’t like it. It’s such an exercise in imagination that it can only benefit you. It’s also a very simple game to teach and very easy to get into, quick and perfect to introduce to people who are new to board gaming or a simple no-brainer choice for some random fun. Word of warning though, after a few games, you will want to go out and get the expansions. You would think the amount of cards they give you would be enough, but you realize soon that go through the deck very quickly.

Zombies!!! is a good game for it’s price, but if you don’t like Risk or other types of popular games, with dice-based movement and random cards ruining your day, you might not like this one. Proceed with caution, which is a zombie rule anyway…

Is it Pretty?
Yes, but in it’s gross ways. The cards that come with the game having great art and the city tiles are well designed. You get a hundred zombie figures, of two colors, but they do the job. My only real gripe about the art work is that the tiles repeat a lot. It’s funny to see Bob’s Burgers show up once, but when you have eight of them on your table, the joke wears off a bit. Still, you’ll feel like you’re in a zombie movie, or at least, a self-aware one.

Who’s it For?
This is the tough question for me. I played it with some family and friends and they all liked it, but I don’t think anyone was jumping for another go. It sort of plays like a game of Sorry and Risk, maybe a bit of Clue. If you don’t like randomness, you won’t like this game. I think I learned that it’s best to only play with four or less people, and never at a late hour. I think if you can find or make houserules for a co-op mode, you’ll enjoy it more. When buying this game, just measure you love of zombies, randomness and constant death to inform your decision.

Why is it in My Collection?
It’s a cheap game, easy to teach and has plenty of humor and mean cards to satisfy that dark hunger in my zombie soul. It’s fun, but frustrating and while I like and own it, I will only be taking it out with the right crowd; one that is more relaxed and not easily upset, and one that can play a game that goes on a little longer than it should. I don’t think I’ll be getting any of the expansions since it would only add to the game length, but it’s definitely a good Halloween game or a random pick of the night.

I’ve never played the original Ultimate Werewolf and having played this game, I don’t think I will. A ten minute game with no player elimination and able to fit ten people around a table, all with a free app? This game is great!

Is it Pretty?
The game has a lot of character, especially considering that a few cards are all that make up One Night Ultimate Werewolf. It’s colorful and memorable, and goes for a humorous tone instead of horror. The cards themselves are thick and stirdy, making them easy to shuffle and pass. The game also comes with tokens to keep track of the roles you’re using each round. Add in the free app that’s incredibly well made, and you have an game made for travel.

Who’s it For?
I brought this game for Thanksgiving and my whole family LOVED it. I mean it, we played this game non-stop for hours and did so for days. We set the timer for only five minutes, so you can imaging how many actual games that added up. Since the game goes up to ten players, we had plenty of room for my friends and everyone who wanted in. It was easy to teach and learn, especially with the app. There was a lot of yelling and laughing, and no one ever got mad at someone else, since the chaos keeps people from having all the information. This is a great party game with very little rules that are goning to trip new players up and should be in any gamer’s collection, casual or not.

Why is it in My Collection?
One Night Ultimate Werewolf is a cheap game that keeps giving and giving. It’s fun, it’s hilarious and it’s great trying to bluff without knowing your own role for certain. It makes for a great travel game and will be my go-to for parties for a long time. This is the kind of game I think I can get anyone to play and make a new favorite. I love the idea of hidden roles, but this is always more chaotic then devious. I’ve been waiting to play this for a while and I’m glad it’s as good as I heard. I’ll absolutely be buying the expansion. Highly recommened.

Carcassonne will win over your second-guessing family with it’s quick and easy learning curve (as long as you ignore the farmer for a few games). Comparable to Dominoes but fun, this game will have players claiming land for themselves or leaching off each other, and you’ll want to play another game as soon as it ends. But it’s also long enough to feel satisfying after one game, making this a perfect ‘filler’ game as well.

Is it Pretty?
Like Settlers of Catan or Castles of (Ron) Burgundy, Carcassonne isn’t about looking gorgeous, it’s about getting the job done. The meeples are nice components but they could have been any shape and have worked. The tiles, which make up the game, are attractive but won’t knock your socks off with their art. Instead, they’re perfectly designed so every piece can fit with another piece, and they’re never slightly off, they fit just right. I’ve yet to play a game where we couldn’t find a spot for the new tile, or even claim a piece of it. And there’s enough designs that you’re always having to think to place it.

Who’s it For?
This game has been a hit with my wife, my sisters and friends. It’s a great introduction to board gaming because it’s very simple (as long as you leave out the farmer rules), but it does get people involved. Because all you need is the tiles and a few meeples, it’s easy to travel with and makes for a perfect holiday game, allowing for five people without feeling like a drag. Perfect for families and people who like games that are a bit more peaceful.

Why is it in My Collection?
I found this game used at my FLGS and it’s been a great buy. I like games where you’re building the ‘board’ every time and having different results. My family really got into this over Thanksgiving, and we already started weird traditions like yelling ‘Mega Castle!’ when someone was trying to go too big. It’s a great two player, but it works all the way up to five. We’ve yet to try the expansions, but that’s because the base game works so well for a long time. This game is an essential part of a gaming collection, one of those ‘must own’ titles that earns it’s reputation.

Thurn and Taxis is easy to learn, different enough that each game will be different and the design is well done. Reminiscent of Ticket to Ride, this game might very well scratch that light “Euro” game itch. But what if it doesn’t…?

Is it Pretty?
Not so much. It’s well designed and the theme is represented at ease. The components are nice; the score meters, the cards, ect. Well put together.
My problem, and this may very well be personal, is that everything is kind of drab. If brown is your favorite color, you might be pretty happy. The colors that separate the borders of regions don’t always differentiate themselves perfectly, such as the greens and blues. Again, the them is well done, but the theme is also a bit dry. You can’t really do a lot with setting up German post routes.

Who’s it For?
If you like Ticket to Ride, but want your games a little more “Euro”, this might be for you. It’s on the same level with the aforementioned train game in terms of difficulty to learn and play, in style and even theme. But, with all the bonuses you pick up and all the little powers you have to change the rules, it has more to do and focus on. It might not replace Ticket to Ride for you, but it will be an easy move if you want to bring some people over to more complicated games.

Why is it Not in My Collection?
Well, I own Ticket to Ride and that’s doing the job just fine right now. If that game gets a little to simple for the people I play it with, I’m more likely to bring them over with Castles of (Ron) Burgundy, especially because Thurn and Taxis has as many elements from that game as Ticket to Ride. Again, the theme is a bit too dry for me and that keeps me from totally getting behind the mechanics.
Your mileage may vary, of course. But for me, this is one I’ll play, but not own.

This game actually turned me own to the idea of playing more board games on the computer/tablet. It’s very well done, all the information is handled by the computer, making it easy to learn and plan. Really, the only problems I have with this are the features that revolve around the actually game play.

Is it Pretty?
The game has character. Every race looks unique and even the ugly ones are cartoony and fun. The map is colorful, the spaces are are all broken in weird shapes, it really is charming. As a computer game, it all translate great. Very clean, the colors pop and it never looks cluttered with information, even when the board itself is full.
The interface is also great. It’s simple and everything is presented where it needs to be. Starting a game is no problem and you should be able to find whatever you’re looking for.

Who’s it For?
So, this could be for two groups of people. If you own the physical game, but want to play more than your gaming group allows, this would be a good purchase. You can start a game with strangers, your friends who also own the digital version or the A.I.
Or, if you don’t own the physical game, you might actually prefer this version. It takes up zero space in your closet, you can always find a game, and learning with this game is no problem. Since it’s cheaper than the actual board, it might be easier on your wallet as well. You could buy this for you and a friend for half the price of a physical box.
Player-wise, if you like strategy and constant player-interaction, this might be for you. There’ no passive-aggressive strategy that’s going to last ten turns here.

Why is it in My Collection?
First, it was a gift. But that doesn’t mean I had to download it or play it as much as I have. It’s a fun, quick game that doesn’t require to much commitment to start up. If I’m ever itching for the board game experience and this is my only option, it’s a nice option to have.
That said, I don’t love the game and I’m glad this was a gift. I was thinking about getting the real game but after playing this, I’m happy I didn’t. There’s a lot of information that the computer takes care of that I wouldn’t have been thrilled to deal with a large group. But even with that, I can’t work through the strategy like I wish and the huge amount of races, while helping the replayability, keeps me from fully grasping the game.
You’re experience might differ, especially if cluttered, warmongering, landgrabbing games are your jam. Right now, I only like it.

Theme is pretty important with me. If I’m going to get others into the game, the theme has to be interesting enough for them to ask about the game. And the game has to play in a way that works with that theme, there has to be synergy. Lords of Waterdeep lacks that. It’s D&D tacked onto worker placement and resource management. I don’t know about you, but when I play Dungeons and Dragons, it’s not to send workers off to have the fun.

Is it Pretty?
That depends. All the quest and intrigue cards have nice art, as do your Lords of Waterdeep. The rubies and gold you earn are also nice touches. The buildings are dull to look at and they do nothing to improve on a drab main board. And all your workers are cubes, which, economically, might make sense, but it doesn’t help with the theme at all, which is too bad, since this game is riding on theme. And I’m not a fan of the cover art, but preferences…

Who’s it For?
I’m not sure. It doesn’t seem to offer enough in skill or control to be loved by the eurogame community. Too many times, I felt like I couldn’t really plan a strategy because of the luck of the draw when it came to quest. Turn order is incredibly important and if you can keep yourself as the first player to go each turns, you have a clear advantage. I came with warm feelings for the setting, having enjoyed the Forgotten Realms before but it didn’t click here with me. The theme isn’t really explored enough and it feels easily replaceable. This game to have any theme and still be the exact same game with no problems. That doesn’t work for those who want the FEEL of D&D in other mediums.

Why is it NOT in My Collection?
If it’s my choice to pick, I wouldn’t choose this one. It’s not a horrible game, it does what it does well enough. But it doesn’t do anything great. My non-D&D friends wouldn’t care for the gameplay and my D&D friends would love the limited use of the setting. Those I did play it with seemed to be having enough fun, but after eight rounds, I was ready to pack it up.

I thought Castles of (Ron) Burgundy would be a nice step-up from Settlers of Catan and I was right. The game is great fun, even though it’s not an action packed adventure with Forbidden in the title. I love cause and effect in games, and you can feel that happening as you build you kingdom.

Is it Pretty?
This game is reminiscent of Settlers of Catan. It’s not drop dead gorgeous, but it’s pretty and it get the job done. After a few games, you won’t need the rule book anymore and the game will become entirely visual-driven. The main game board that all resources come from is nice and the design works perfectly with the game. Your own personal map is somewhat bland, but you fill it up with hexes and goods soon enough and it starts feeling extremely satisfying as you build your little kingdom. Beautiful, not really. But it’s easy on the eyes and helpful to the players.

Who’s it For?
I believe this is a good step-up game for people. After few games of Catan, Castles of (Ron) Burgundy seems like a natural move. This isn’t a game for people who need tons of action, but people who like peaceful pacing but stressful choices. Think of it as building a puzzle with friends. Except, one of you can win! It makes a great two player game as well, so if you need a game to accommodate less people, this works great.

Why is it in My Collection
I found this at Barnes and Noble in the discount bin and it’s one of the best finds I’ve had. My wife really enjoys this game and she tends to beat me by a good margin of points. But it’s still fun and it is really fulfilling to complete certain sections of your map, it’s a tangible, growing marker of your progress and success. Plus, in five rounds, it doesn’t over stay it’s welcome and I can’t wait to introduce it to more people. Castles of (Ron) Burgundy is a buy!

When it comes to Dungeons and Dragons, I tend to prefer 1st or 2nd Edition, so that is a big part of how I feel about the changes in 4th. Past those, Pathfinder seems to be doing a good job at keeping the spirit of 3rd alive and I’m already excited to play 5th. That leaves this edition as the black sheep of the family, the one I’m okay with skipping. Will I play it? Sure, I never turn down a game with friends. Will I buy it? Not likely.

Is it Pretty?
Like all Dungeons and Dragons, these books look great, inside and out. Great artwork for all the races, classes and monsters. Don’t know what a Warforged is? Well, when you see the pictures, it’s all you’ll want to play. Unfortunately, this being a role playing game, the art will only take you so far…

Who’s it For?
Now this is the real question. 4th Edition is definitely for people who want to get the most out of their miniatures, because the combat is highly grid based. That also makes it ideal for people playing online with sites like Roll20. Since the powers work like video game abilities, those who want to move from one to other will enjoy it to, especially if you’ve played the MMO Neverwinter game.
For the rest of us? Maybe not so much. I don’t enjoy relying on grids and I miss having magic feel like magic and not some clickable superpower. This is probably going to be the black sheep of D&D for a while, not replacing those that came before or holding up against 5th Edition and beyond. I have a friend who loves this edition, but the majority of those I talk to are moving on.

Why is it NOT in My Collection?
It’s trying too hard to be something I can get elsewhere. If I want simpler game play, I’ll choose 1st Edition or another game entirely, like Savage Worlds. If I want grid combat, there games that focus just on that. I don’t even feel the spirit of D&D in this game. I’ll never turn down a game a friend is running, but I’ll always hope he’s using a different system. More than likely, I’ll be picking Pathfinder or 5th Edition as my next big role playing purchase.

Settlers of Catan is my new go-to for game night. The resource management is fun and a lucky roll will always make you feel like you can make a come-back. The ever changing board is great, since it keeps each game different and experienced players might not be able to start with an edge if the turn order isn’t in their favor. I don’t think I’d ever go back to Monopoly if this is the other option I have.

Is it Pretty?
It’s simple, but that doesn’t make it any less good looking. Your new map will look so wonderful and promising when you lay out the tiles and each resource is simply, but still beautify designed.

Who’s it For?
The great thing about Catan is that it’s for everyone. It was always being played at my college and I’ve had no problem getting my brothers and sisters into this. My mom also liked it a lot and wanted to play again the next night. It’s easy to teach and learn. The most complicated parts for new players are the development cards, but even those are understood after a quick explanation. Considering there’s almost zero text and simple rules, this game works for anyone.

Why is it in My Collection?
This is one of those basic games that help introduce people to modern board games that aren’t called Monopoly. It’s also incredibly fun to play. The resource management can make you feel like a tycoon, hoarding all the sheep, or a pauper, willing to trade your firstborn for some wheat. It’s the first game I take out or suggest when having people over for games and it’s just a fun time.

This is a great card game that’s incredibly easy to learn and get addicted to. I found this for ten dollars at my FLGS and I’m glad I did. This has done more to get my wife playing new games than Eldritch Horror or Zombies!!! ever could. It makes a great filler or a solid focus for game night.

Is it Pretty?
The card designs are a well-illustrated, giving everyone from the guard to the princess a sense of royalty. The text on each card is simple and at the bottom, giving the artwork the most space and after a while, that’s all you’ll need to remember what the card does. The bits to keep track of the winner are basic, but the instructions are written out beautifully. The whole game also comes in a red velvet bag, with golden letters stitched into it. For a simple game, it sure looks nice!

Who’s it For?
Talk about a starter game. With only sixteen cards to choose from (with multiples of the same card), it’s easy to teach and learn. Plus, the game comes with a reference card for every player so remembering what a card does or how many are left in the deck is easy. The wife and I tend to take this to any outing or lunch we have and always use this to introduce new players. It’s almost like a regency version of Go Fish with new powers.

Why is it in My Collection?
At ten bucks, this was simple decision and probably the best bang for my buck since Forbidden Island. It got my wife interested and has been a hit with everyone I’ve shown it to, and it’s gotten some of the most play out of all my games, especially since the games can go by so quickly, without feeling rush.

Risk is by far one of my favorite board game. Every game is different and it takes a commitment to play. I love the energy around the board as you place your first pieces and everyone starts forming strategies.
I know people don’t like how long this game takes but I don’t see that as a hindrance. I feel like those who quit after two hours aren’t really fans of the game anyway and, besides, war should wear on a person’s fatigue. That means you get real world effects for no extra charge!
Companies keep trying to change the game with new settings, brands and rules but nothing beats the classic and nothing feels as good as take all of Europe for yourself.

Is it Pretty?
No, I guess it’s not. But it is! But not really!
It’s all the eye of the beholder, but I enjoy Risk’s simplistic design. When other versions try to muck around with it, that’s when I have a problem. But, I have to admit, in a world with Eldritch Horror, Archipelago or even the simpler designs of Settlers of Catan, Risk is overly-simple, bland board. It would be nice to see an edition where all the continents look like the environment they contain, instead of the single colors used. Plus, the plastic pieces… I get it! Okay? I get it. It’s simple. But I still like it!

Who’s it For?
So this is where nobody agrees with me, because I love Risk. If you love the complexities, the control, the well-refined mechanics of today’s newer games, Risk is not for you. It’s for people who can handle long hours and complete luck driven games. It’s for those who like the strategy it allows, but can get by with the strategy it lacks. It’s for me, a few of my friends and those who can still see through all the flaws that today’s gamers LOVE to point out.

Why is it in My Collection?
Just because something is old and doesn’t use the modern techniques, doesn’t mean it should be thrown away. Just because movies from decades ago don’t use today’s editing techniques and close-up shots doesn’t make them any less classic. I know people love to hate on this game and I know other games have come around and done this better, but I still love this game. Sure, it will get less and less play overtime, but it’s not going anywhere. If you don’t like this time of random, old game, there’s plenty of other options available to you.

An easy to learn game with a lot of fun pack in. The artwork is gorgeous and was the first thing to attract me to the box in the store.
Forbidden Island is cooperative and the knowledge that everyone needs to get off the island to win helps build teamwork. I’ve had fun playing with others, deciding who’s taking which treasure and saving which part of the island. As the game keeps going, you start losing pieces of the island and that’s when I really start having fun. The sinking of the island helps keep the sense of a ticking clock and keeps this relatively short game a tense one. It can start to seem easier the more you play, but with alternate map designs and an adjustable water marker, I’m still having fun with it and it was worth the fifteen dollars.

Is it Pretty?
Oh my word. When I was in the store, casually looking at all the board games I could start my collection with, there was Forbidden Island. A small, unassuming tin with the most beautifully designed lighthouse I have ever seen. That was just the tin!
The tiles that form the island are absolutely the most gorgeous things I own. Every location on is unique and colorful, illustrated in such a way that, even though this island is an island of doom, I still want to spend as much time as possible on it. It’s part of the reason I love taking this game out for another round. Throw in the well designed water marker, the treasure cards and the well designed and satisfyingly-heavy treasures themselves, and you have one of your best looking games. For fifteen dollars. Not sold yet?

Who’s it For?
Like Settlers of Catan or Love Letter, Forbidden Island is one of my introduction games for people not used to the modern game scene, or cooperative play. Sure, some people might not like co-op games, my brother-in-law kept asking how he could beat us even as we all worked together, but I’ve found when people start understanding the real threat of the sinking island, they realize working together is their only chance! It’s also incredibly quick, so if people aren’t getting into it, you’ll be done in no time and ready to move on to something else. Or if, more likely, it’s a hit, you can play multiple games!

Why is it in My Collection?
Gorgeous art? Check. Easy to teach? Check. Makes me feel like I’m an actual treasure hunter on a secret island? Check!
This game was fifteen bucks and that was some of the best money I ever spent. It might not be as complicated as Pandemic, Eldritch Horror or even it’s semi-sequel Forbidden Desert, but it’s a great game nonetheless. It got my wife interest, my friends working together and even small amounts of role playing out people. Add in the ability to change the map with the variant setups online and you have a game you’ll want to bring out at least once a game night.

I started playing casually online but the real fun comes from going against people in real life. Magic is addicting and the amount of money you spend buying new cards can easily get away from you if you don’t practice self-control. It’s fun to learn but can take a while to master the finer points. Magic suits casual or hardcore gamers fine. It’s also perfectly balanced (though not everyone will agree) and there’s always new material being provided and I’ve never had a hard time finding a store that hosts sessions and Friday Night Magic. So what’s the problem?

Is it Pretty?
Being a collectable card game, the art is incredibly gorgeous and if you just bought the cards for the artwork as fancy bookmarks, you would be in the wrong. Every card has lovely illustrations that draw you into the world. Want to see what vampires should look like or how scary a dragon would be up close? Play Magic.

Who’s it For?
This is the debatable section. Some might say for everyone. I think I used to think that as well but times have changed. Even if you have a few decks premade for new players, it’s going to take a while to get into the game and learn the rules of that single deck alone.
The type of gamer you are might matter, but really, this is a game for those who can make the commitment. Both time and money will be stretched by these cards, as you’re trying to tune a perfect deck out of single card purchases or booster packs. Over the years, I’ve come around to thinking there’s other, better things to spend those resources on. Why not just buy a deck building game and have something fun and easy to teach to friends and family? Or, use that money on other types of games that can be enjoyed by everyone. If you’re into Magic, then it’s for you and you enjoy it and that’s great. But if you’re not yet, and you’re thinking about, there might be other things out there worth looking at.

Why is it in My Collection?
Because I hit a phase right before I got out of college and thereafter. And it’s addicting, but the fun type of addiction that rewards dedication. I don’t know if I’ll ever add more cards to my collection, but considering how much fun I’m having getting into the world of board games, I don’t think so. I have no idea how you can support this hobby with another one that needs as much time and money. I still enjoy it and wonder what I’d be doing