(Part 2) Top products from r/boardgames

oh this is perfect. An excellent exercise.

$100 to buy games on Amazon with a newbie who has specific needs.

Ok so we're looking to minimize card games, adult players, 2+

1. Alhambra - $30 - it's a fun game and it gets our requirements right out of the way. it's more than just a card game there's a board, there's tiles to play with, A nice amount of physicality. it's new player friendly and works with 2 players.
   
   
2. Last Night on Earth - $45 - Again going hard on the requirements here. It may be totally cheesy and it might not last a long time in your collection but if you're gonna get this game better to get it when you're young in the hobby so you'll have the most fun. It's team based but works with one player teams. It's a zombie game with a lot of mini zombie figurines to play with. It's a lot of fun to play with.
   
   

3. Blueprints - $30 - I want a dice game in your library and in my head the first game is King of Tokyo which is an excellent game but I don't know how useful it is for two players. Blueprints is easy to learn fun to play and performs well with two players.
   
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   At this point I'm about $5 over maybe a little more because i think i rounded down a few. I might have been able to switch a few things to get more games in but I wanted quality games that minimized or compensated for cards. Plus all of these games play 2 or more pretty wel.
   
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   Honorable Mentions:
   
   Jaipur - $35 - For a couple I think one of the best beginner games is Jaipur. It's a two player card game with a welcoming theme that's easy to learn and yet when you play it's as difficult as your opponent makes it. The games aren't long so even when you want to try and experiment with headgames you're not investing too much into it.
   
   Looney Pyramids aka IceDice - $9-15 - Now obviously the one to get is the Ice Dice. It's two "stashes" for $15 vs 1 for $10. Ideally you want three stashes and you can play the most excellent "Space Chess" like game Binary Homeworlds
   
   Bananagrams - $15 - Bananagrams is an excellent party game if you have the tablespace. Honestly this is the singular reason I haven't played my copy yet. It's light it's fluffy, it's fun.
   
   Splendor - $30 - Splendor is an excellent game. Nothing feels good as holding the poker chips in this game. It's a nice strategy game with a dash of tactical planning if you want. You could substitute it for Blueprints and still have excellent picks. Very fun quick game. But it is card heavy.
   
   Word ARound - $15 - Now most people probably haven't heard of this charmer. It's cheap, it's probably best as a party game. I happen to like the look of it but no doubt it'll burn out as you become familiar with the words a bit.
   
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   Race for the Galaxy
   
   I happen to love that game. If you're ever stuck may I recommend this awesome video tutorial.
   
   Modern Table Gamer
   
   Also don't forget you can play online at BoardGameArena. Some people might be recommending Roll for the Galaxy the new spin off game. I haven't played it yet but I found the Miami Dice episode about it to be very enlightening. Both Tom and Sam speak highly of the game especially in comparison to the original game.
   
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   Ticket to Ride
   
   Excellent game I hear for two players you want the Switzerland/India map
   
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   Agricola
   
   I think this might be a bit heavy for new players
   
   
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   Eldrich Horror/Castles of Burgundy
   
   While I have played CoB i don't know it well enough to judge it. I didn't have a great time with my play but it was just one time. I hear lovely things about Eldrich especially compared to Arkham.
   
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My list would include a variation of games

Code Names - $16

Sushi Go - $10

7 Wonders - $26

Tsuro - $19

Castles of Burgundy - $27

Total: $98

Explanations:

First, I want to preface these selections: our play group varies in size from week to week with anywhere from 4-10 players averaging 5-6. So, we often get caught "splitting the party." That's fine at times, but sometimes, we all want to jump in on one game together because splitting up feels bad man^TM since we're all there to socialize in addition to playing games.

As such, I wanted to include games that ran the gamut and for the most part games that scaled well from 2-X players.

First, Code Names. Now, we've played this game so many times, we actually purchased the expansion Code Names Deep Cover which is a fun variant which adds tons of more playability. This is the go-to "party" game as, for our group, Cards Against Humanity has grown a bit stale. At least it hits the table much less frequently than in years past. Code Names is easy to teach, easy to understand and difficult enough for some of your more entrenched board gamers. In general, I find this a great starter to transition from your Milton Bradley games everyone knows (and hates) into board games that offer sustenance.

Secondly, I offer Sushi Go (cheating a bit here as you'll probably have to buy a couple copies for larger groups or just get Sushi Go Party). Sushi Go is our groups go-to game to introduce games that use a drafting mechanic and to teach that board games can be cute, fun, and delightful while also requiring strategy, maths, and a bit of hope (our group tends to dislike dice-rolling games so for the most part, we stick to games where we can mostly "control" our own fates - YMMV). This game is super quick, so you don't get bogged down at the table for hours. I feel for new board gamers, quicker games are a MUST as many people may not be able to handle the length many of our Beloveds require.

7 Wonders comes next. We tend to introduce this game right after Sushi Go as the mechanics are super similar and the newer players feel like they already know what's going on for the most part. There will be questions, there will be some confusion and oversight, but this game follows easily and feels like a natural step up from Sushi Go and gets players right into the mix of heartier board games. Oh, and I could personally play 7 Wonders every week, especially with all the options offered through the expansions Cities, Leaders, and Tower. The interchangeability of these expansions has kept this game on our table long past many others and continues to bring it back. Again though, YMMV as we all have different tastes.

Tsuro, our board game palatte cleanser. This is another quick game which offers a lot of replayabiliity with minimal rules learning. Aside from those positives, the artwork is what sent this board game over the top for me. I am mesmerized by the board, the tiles, and the pieces each time we open this. This game offers a quick break between your heavier meeple-laiden board games so even after we've surpassed "newb" status, we often come back to this.

Castles of Burgundy I included as a final game because ultimately, we need a game with a strong theme and wonderful mechanics which offer replayability from a more traditional Euro point of view. This game really surprised me. I loved it the first time we played it, and though it may not hit the table but once every other month due to time constraints, it always feels like reuniting with an old friend. It offers a setup for further Euro games and sets the scene on what's really out there in weightier board games. I know there could be other games that fit this description, but at the price, this game is amazing for what it offers.

And that's the list. I know there are many criticisms of these games and I don't devalue those. All my favorites have points in them where they fall a little flat at times, or don't elicit the enjoyment I thought they might, but many times, it's usually my perception and frame of mind. I can often come back months later with renewed enjoyment for them, so trust me, I know there are imperfections; I just choose to ignore them for the post. These games, while some may take a bit longer to learn, offer a great springboard into board games and offer the new player a slow wade into the pool without feeling too slow or drab as one might feel with something like Settlers of Catan. Will I stand by this opinion in 5 or 10 years? We'll see.

A few games I like that would probably fit the bill:

Spot It. Super fun game, easy to learn and quick to play. Not the deepest game but it's lots of fun for all ages and a nice quick game to play when you want something short or as a break between longer games. Good for any number of players.

Dixit. A storytelling game. Each turn one of you is the "storyteller" and tells a short story (one word to a sentence) about it. Everyone else picks a card from their hand that they think fits the story. The cards are mixed up and everyone guesses which one the Storyteller had. The interesting scoring mechanic is the storyteller only gets points if some people don't guess right. If everyone or no one guesses right, the storyteller gets no points and everyone else gets points. Plus, if it's not your turn but someone votes for your card, you get points. The cards can be somewhat crazy and surreal but are definitely safe for a 9 year old. The game is a fun casual game.

Ticket to Ride. Fun game where you lay out train routes. You can block people's routes and you will be angry at whoever does that to you. Only takes 5 people though.

Tsuro. Another somewhat shorter game. You take turns laying tiles and moving your Dragon along the path they create trying to stay on the board. Near the end of the game it gets hectic and you might end up knocking each other off.

TransAmerica. A train game like Ticket to Ride but faster and a little less complex. Rounds go quickly and it has an interesting scoring mechanic. Each round you lose points if you don't connect to your cities and the game ends when someone is at zero. The winner is whoever lost the least points.

7 Wonders. A fun game that involves playing cards that you draw from a hand you pass around. Takes up to 7 people but might be slightly too complex for the 9 year old.

Shadow Hunters. A hidden roles game where you will be on teams but you won't know who's on your team. Throughout the game you try to figure that out and it can get very competitive. Again might be slightly too complex for the 9 year old but maybe not.

Castle Panic. This game is slightly different because it is a cooperative game. All of you play against the game itself to try and defend your castle and defeat all the monsters. It's a pretty fun game.

There are a ton of other good games but I'll stop for now since I've probably listed too many as it is. Two things I'd recommend to try to find new games that your family might like beyond these. First, see if there's a board game store near you. A lot of them will have board game libraries where you can go in and try out the games at no charge. Most (in my experience) are pretty friendly to newer players. Second, check out TableTop. It's a show hosted by Wil Wheaton where he explains games and then plays through them. My wife and I used it as a good way to see new games that we might be interested in without having to buy them sight unseen, since boardgames can be expensive. The demo part of the show has sold us on a bunch of games (several of which are listed above). Hope this helps and enjoy the family game nights.

I can understand why you would come here, but to Monopoly is to board game nerds what Call of Duty is to video game nerds. Many a time have we here on /r/boardgames told people "I like to play board games" only to get the painful, cringe worthy response, "Oh, like Monopoly?"

I in no way mean to criticize you for enjoying Monopoly. Board games are awesome, and anyone can like any game they so choose, however, you may find that many people here very much dislike Monopoly and don't want much to do with it.

I would suggest instead, you get your hands on a "designer" board game (they can be quite cheap!) and join us in the wonderful hobby that is board games. Generally regarded as "the" starter game, [Catan] (http://www.amazon.com/Mayfair-Games-MFG-3071-Edition/dp/B00U26V4VQ/ref=sr_1_2?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1462063793&sr=1-2&keywords=settlers+of+catan) is loads of fun, provided you have 2-3 friends to play it with and a little under 40$ to spare.

As a personal recommendation, my first board game that got me into the hobby was [Betrayal at House on the Hill] (http://www.amazon.com/Betrayal-At-House-Hill-2nd/dp/B003HC9734/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462063949&sr=8-1&keywords=betrayal+at+house+on+the+hill). Again, all it takes is a few friends and a little under 40 bones. I personally like this game due the board game being totally unique every time you play it and with 50 different stories to play, I'd gladly play a game right now, and I've easily had 30+ playthroughs.

Of course, you could go with an even easier "start-up" cost and go with another favorite of mine, [Love Letters] (http://www.amazon.com/Alderac-Entertainment-Group-5104AEG-Letter/dp/B00AGJ4HC2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462064185&sr=8-1&keywords=love+letters). This one is exceedingly simple to learn and very quick to play and only requires one friend (though I find it a lot more fun with three or four friends (preferably drunk ones ;))). To top it all off, it isn't even ten dollars, I'd bloody send you a copy if it got you into board games, lol.

Anyway, I kind of started to ramble a bit, but it's a mega fun hobby and you should definitely get into it.

> And, if it's not too bad, can anyone recommend some critical supplies for this hobby? Like what types of paints, brushes, etc will I need to do a good job?

The Reaper Learn to paint Kits are the best place to start. Everything you need to get started in the box. $35 and free shipping is the perfect price to get started!

> Are there any good tutorials out there?

YouTube, son.

-------------------------------------------------

My two cents: If your really interested in it then go for it. It's a great hobby and can be a profitable one, once you reach a certain level.

Paints: which are the best? What do you use?....

• P3: My personal fave. They just seem to always be consistent, and rarely go bad. They provide good coverage, and mix well. $3-4 per pot.
  
  
• Vallejo: They're ok, can be very runny at times and require a lot of extra shaking. They cover well, and thin super easy...so much that it's easy to thin too much IMO. Also, their pots are squeeze tubes, and it's easy for them to clog up. $2-4 per pot.
  
  
• Citadel: I've had some poor luck with these, but I hear that they are kicking up their quality and making a better product. On the other hand, their Washes are top notch. They're the most expensive (like all GW products) $3+ per pot.
  
  Those are the ones I've had experience with...there are more out there, I hear Army Painter makes a good product and Reaper dabbles in paints as well.
  
  Some people will steer you towards craft paints, I wouldn't listen to them if your really thinking about getting into the hobby, as the hobby paints are a better quality. The reason I heard back when I was getting started is Something along the lines of "Light levels and UV protection." The condensed version is: The Hobby paints will hold their color longer and not fade vs the Craft paints.
  
  Other than that....
  
  
• Practice makes perfect
  
  
• Don't be afraid to try new techniques
  
  
• Don't get discouraged
  
  
• Always be learning
  
  Edit: Buy Masters brush cleaner. It will save your brushes!

Love Letter - Ultra fun game for 2 to 4 players, super small, super simple, but tons of replayability. One of my favorite games ever, and a hit with everyone. Currently $8 on amazon.

Coup- Super basic social deduction game, tons of fun for not a lot of money. More complicated than Love Letter, but not very difficult. The hardest part about teaching a younger kid this game is the idea that you can (and should) lie to your friends. Currently $9 on amazon.

Red 7 - This is a small 2-4 player game, super fun, super simple. Currently $9 on amazon

Basically, you can get all three of these for ~$25.

Based on what you've written, I would recommend Dominion, for 28 dollars here on Amazon.

Dominion is a great standalone game, but it also has a wealth of (mostly) excellent expansions, so it's a game she can play for a very long time. It's easy to learn and teach, and it scales decently well from 2-4 players.

If she doesn't have any deckbuilders, Dominion invented and, in my opinion, perfected the genre. It's an absolutely superb game, and I've logged at least 200 plays with my different sets and expansions. And if she does, Dominion is still the best one around.

How many players are you looking for? I love these exact types of games so I won't try to repeat any answers.

I recently got Piñata and have been enjoying it. 2 players, plays fairly quick (~30 min). Good mix of luck and strategy.

Agricola: All Creatures Big and Small is a fantastic 2 player game in a little box. All the fun of Agricola in a fraction of the time.

The Kosmos 2 player series all come in fairly small boxes. Look at Jambo (which I believe is now called Asante).

The Gryphon Games bookshelf series is another series of small, good games. Though of them I've only played (and love) Incan Gold. Like I said, I haven't played the others but I hear Roll Through the Ages and For $ale are the other 2 that are worth getting.

Lost Legacy is the spiritual successor to Love Letter. Might be worth checking out.

My picks for things people have already said:

Skull is awesome! I think a reprint may be on the way, so don't pay more than $15 for it. If you can get your hands on it though, it's an awesome game.

Here's what I'd do if I had to rebuild a collection from scratch for $1k trying to have a wide variety of play styles:

7 Wonders $32.99
Agricola $45.79
Battlestar Galactica $39.97
Carcassonne $30.02
Carcassonne Inns & Cathedrals$15.71
Dixit $22.65
Dominion Big Box $69.18 Prosperity is one of the best expansions; Alchemy is not, but you're pretty much getting it for free in this set.
Eclipse $61.49 It wouldn't be a board game library without a 4X game, and I think Eclipse is the best currently.
Eldritch Horror $40.47 - I love Arkham Horror, but Eldritch streamlines a lot of the fiddly rules of the original.
Formula D [$41.96] (http://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-FDUSASM-Formula-D/dp/2914849648/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1395757676&sr=1-1&keywords=formula+d)
Gloom $17.98
Guillotine $13.52
King of Tokyo $30.19
Love Letter $9.34
Memoir 44 $47.43
No Thanks! $9.98
Pandemic $31.65
Power Grid $32.27
Puerto Rico [$31.20] (http://www.amazon.com/Rio-Grande-Games-195RGG-Puerto/dp/B00008URUT/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395756360&sr=8-1&keywords=puerto+rico)
Race for the Galaxy $24.11
Resistance, The $17.99
Roborally $37.49
Settlers of Catan $37.99
Telestrations $19.99 Awesome and funny party game. My friends and I eventually tire of Apples to Apples or Cards Against Humanity, but seldom do so with this.
Ticket to Ride $37.24
Ticket to Ride 1910 Expansion $18.21
Tsuro $24.22
Twilight Struggle $49.98
Village $35.47
Wits & Wagers $19.99

That comes up to $946.47; room for a couple more expansions or another game.

Guillotine (BGG; $14 at Amazon) is a 2-5 person card game based on the French Revolution.

The game takes place over three rounds ("days"). Each day, you line up twelve noble cards. Each noble has a different point value. At the end of each turn, a player decapitates the noble at the front of the line. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins (novel concept, right?)

Every turn, you can:

1. Optionally play an action card from your hand, which allows to adjust the line, gain points, or mess up other player's plans with various cards.
   
   
2. Collect the nobel at the front of the line (unless your action card lets you do something else.
   
   
3. Draw another action card.
   
   In addition, certain nobles have special actions that trigger when collected, allowing you to draw more cards, gain points, or extend the day.
   
   Really simple to learn, with a skill cap coming in 3 or 4 games later, once you've learned all the cards. Pretty luck based (depends on card draw,) but fun nonetheless. I play 5-6 games on a gaming night, then don't touch it for a few weeks. It's a ton of fun as long as it's not the only game you're playing.

Welcome to the hobby!

Lords of Waterdeep is a very good fantasy-themed board game to start with. It is set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe and uses a game mechanic called "worker placement". Amazon currently has it for about $34.

Dominion is a very popular "deck-building" game that plays with cards only (i.e. no board). It has a loose fantasy-ish theme, but it will be a good introduction to the world of modern gaming. Another deck builder with a more conventional fantasy theme is Ascension: Deckbuilding Game. [Amazon has Dominion for about $29.]
(http://smile.amazon.com/Rio-Grande-Games-RGG370-Dominion/dp/B001JQY6K4/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1464598805&sr=1-1&keywords=dominion)

And yes, while not fantasy, Pandemic is one of the greatest cooperative board games ever made (my opinion of course). Definitely worth getting. Amazon has this for about $24.

Happy gaming!

/u/r2d8 getinfo long

It's more simple than the games you listed, but I've never gotten a bad review from Guillotine. It's quick to learn, all the cards say what they do, it's funny, it's colorful, and has the right balance of randomness and strategy that lets experienced players play better, but other players always have a chance to get back in the game.

Set is another game I'd recommend, though it is a bit tougher. It's all about finding a pattern and calling it first, so usually adults/older kids have the advantage (though you'd be amazed how fast kids pick up on that stuff).

In my experience, Puerto Rico is very long and very difficult to master. Dominion is rather light and fast, but the interactions between cards take time to learn. As juniperapolo said, Pandemic is good (all the players team up against the board), though it can be a bit random and intense sometimes. Roborally is ok; it's a bit long, and, in my experience, one person ends up way ahead by the second or third checkpoint, and everyone else has no chance of catching up for the entire second half of the game. And I'm all for teaching kids Arkham Horror ;)

Also, if they have Catan, maybe getting the Seafarer's expansion might be good, or the 5-6 player expansion.

It usually depends on stock levels and prices. I am new to the hobby and have ordered from the following:

German Games - They generally speaking have the lowest game prices in Canada and a flat rate Ontario shipping of 10 dollars. Its usually good to wait and order 2-3 games so the shipping cost makes sense. (Ships from Kitchener, ON - next day arrival in Ottawa)

Geek Stop Games - These guys prices are either the same as German Games, or around $5 higher. They also have $10 shipping to Ontario, or FREE local delivery if you live in London, ON. I ordered a few games that were OOS at German Games. They were the same price, or a dollar or two more. (Ships from London, ON - received two days after purchase in Ottawa)

I have not yet ordered from Play Time Games as they are a new find for me, but they are based in Ottawa and do allow for local pickup. Their prices look the around the same as German/Geekstop, and Ill be able to save on shipping. I look forward to placing an order with them.

Other places I looked at ordering from was Godboma, just be careful to not order the games that have VF next to them as they are the french versions (QC based)! Also, Meeplemart seems to have some reasonable prices too. They are also a brick and mortar located in Toronto, I believe is $10 flat shipping in ON. And Starlit Citadel, their prices are generally $5 higher than German Games, but they do make some nice review videos!

I did have an opportunity to visit 401 Games this past weekend as I was in Toronto for an event, and I must say they have to be the cheapest brick and mortar around. If you live in Toronto, definitely check these guys out! Great selection too.

I would avoid Amazon and Chapters/Indigo (but watch for sales). Their regular prices are usually higher than the places I mentioned, and by $20-50 at that.

Edit Its actually kind of funny, Eclipse is on sale at Amazon.ca for $73 with free shipping. The lowest Ive seen Eclipse for in Canada is at the $70 range - I dont think youll be able to find it cheaper once you take shipping into account. If you planned on getting more than one game, then the other places may still work better.

http://www.amazon.ca/Asmodee-ECLI01USASM-Eclipse-Board-Game/dp/B006L7KIWG

Citadels, Tsuro, and 7 Wonders might be good for you guys to try.

Citadels is a game that can handle 2-8 players, and the structure of the game is rather different, making for more replayability, for differing numbers of players. http://amzn.com/158994030X

Tsuro is a simple but fun game (and the guys that make it are good people). http://amzn.com/B002SQBB3O

7 Wonders is a nice balance between strategy, complexity, and ease of play. It can seem complex at first play, but it doesn't take long to figure out and is a lot of fun. http://amzn.com/B0043KJW5M

I guess that it'd be okay if they brought their own games, but you should warn them about possible damage. Accidents happen.

I thought of two other games for you:

• Monikers
  
• Skull
  
  I heard about both games from Shut Up & Sit Down and I think both are really good party games (people can drop in and drop out) and I think it might work for the couch game or for a party bluffing game.
  
  I wish you the best. Wish I was related to you so I could come play. :)
  
  Congrats again!

Assuming you want to spend half of your money:

Star Realms: http://www.amazon.com/White-Wizard-Games-Realms-Deckbuilding/dp/B00HRGMPIU

Sushi Go: http://www.amazon.com/Sushi-Go-Pick-Pass-Card/dp/B00J57VU44

One is a deck builder like dominion, the other is drafting like 7Wonders. (If you want 4 player star realms pick up two copies). That is a grand total of $24/$36. If you add Coup OR/and Resistance/ Resistance Avalon:

http://www.amazon.com/Coup-Card-Game-Resistance-Universe/dp/B00GDI4HX4/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1417653537&sr=1-1&keywords=coup

http://www.amazon.com/Indie-Boards-Cards-AVA1IBC-Resistance/dp/B009SAAV0C/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1417653562&sr=1-1&keywords=resistance+avalon

Which are similar (made by the same people), you could be three games in for 40 bucks.

Then add a heavier game or two medium sized games-- check out TableTop, or our "What did you play this week" threads for some ideas-- and you come out with a nice collection of games (5 or six of them) for about 100 bucks.


I'm not saying you have to get these exact games, but think about a few smaller card games with a bigger game for the most bang for the buck.

The resistance (avalon preferably) is 100% worth it since it plays 5-10... but what about days when you only have 4, etc. Catan can't do all the work forever.


I can give better recs if you edit to add more info; even if it's just things like "I like space. The people I play with like space... and Pirates!"

I have not played TI3, but my group definitely enjoys Eclipse. Eclipse's Rise of the Ancient expansion was a must for us. The additional rules to allow multiple players to go simultaneously is super awesome; cutting the down-time between turns waaaaay down :)

My picks because they are 1) easy to learn for all skill levels and can be played in less than 1 hr. Whoever is running the tournament should have game master who is VERY familiar with the games and has actually played multiple games themselves.

• Munchkin Deluxe -- It actually has tournament rules you can print out
  
• Sushi Go Party! - Bracket system works best
  
• Zombie Dice - This is a push your luck game
  
• [Santorini] (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/roxley/santorini-learn-it-in-30-seconds-play-it-for-life?ref=rxly) You can teach someone in 2min but there is a lot strategy to win
  
• [Splendor] (https://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-SCSPL01-Splendor-Board-Game/dp/B00IZEUFIA) -- A game last 30min max
  
• Love Letter or Coup
  
• Qwirkle Board Game
  
• 7 Wonders
  
• Quadropolis - Easy rules, it is a puzzle game but can finish in 30 to 45min

I'm just going to hijack the thread and say what a great party game this is. I was at a party a few weeks ago with a fairly diverse crowd. I brought a few games with me with the thought of maybe suggesting one depending on the mood of the crowd (I didn't know many people, it the first time I hung with this group). After awhile the party was rolling, people were laughing and my wife suggested Skull would probably be fun. So I brought it out. No one else at the party had played before but if was quick to teach and we spent the next hour or hour and and a half howling with laughter. People floated in and out. The host caught me the next day and said he thought he needed to get a copy. #success :)

I do kind of wish the Asmodee version included enough cards for eight people as six is sometimes not enough for a party game. Maybe I just need to buy a second copy or, to OPs point, just make a custom edition.

(And yes, the other option is to just use playing cards but I think the art adds something to the gameplay).

I remember seeing it on amazon for like $50-60. Then the holidays came around and it's inexplicably back at $90.

I love this:

http://www.amazon.com/NECA-WZK-70495-Knight-Board/dp/B005S8KR6Q

"You save: $.04"

Wow! THANKS AMAZON!

As far as worker placement, I should have added a caveat in original post that I acknowledge that workerplacement games are not normally direct and that I don't expect that.

Im getting hannabi once it goes back onto prime.

Im getting love letter

Skull: Okay, so as the dice tower reviewer of it said, 24$ seems kinda steep for what it accomplishes, and its only up to 6 players, and the only time i want an easy party game is normally when I have 7+ people, so I'd need to get more than 1 set a of this version. If it came as a 12 person version i'd get it in a heart beat though. Also I question my need for more simple, small person party games after I already have resistance, and soon love letter and hannabi.

Jungle Speed: This one just doesn't interest me, even with the rather silly video, I prefer actual spoons more :D

And last but not least, Stone Age: Stone age intrigues me, the price is a bit pushy, but i expect that since it is a "big" game (like catan and eclipse). I like how it looks though! It looks like it'd fill that niche. But i've also been looking at lords of waterdeep, which flavor I like a bit more. Do you have a preference between the two?

I bought one of the Reaper learn to paint sets (link below). I never painted the minis that came with it, but know people who have. The colors work well for beginners. Thee is a decent mix and a full spectrum. Supplement that with a few other reaper bottles and you have a good start collection of paints for like $50.

From there, I kept on buying one or two bottles at a time and now own a bunch of paints. I stopped for a whole but starting painting again just last night! It's fun and relaxing. My Saturday shift at my local game store is coming to a close in the next month, so with more time I hope to paint some more coming up!

https://www.amazon.com/Reaper-Miniatures-08906-Learn-Paint/dp/B00NTMC49G

My suggestions for fun two player games that have a small footprint are below. I haven't tried playing these in a pub, but I think they should work.

Love Letter - I played this at a party recently and enjoyed it. There are various themes, including a munchkins variant.

Pass the Pigs - I used to bring this game with me on plane trips because it is compact and playable on a tray table.

Toss Up - Fun dice game, simple rules, could be turned into a drinking game if you are so inclined.

Timeline - Lots of different versions of this game, all have to do with history, but you can pick different topics, and even combine packs.

Exploding Kittens - random fun, there is also a NSFW version that is full of boob/penis/poop/etc jokes.

Hanabi - I have the tile version of this, which is a little bulkier, but is much more drink and food resistant.

It's a little bit of an extra expense up front, but just this past week I bought this kit from Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00NTMC49G/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1451310598&sr=8-2&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=reaper+bones+miniatures&dpPl=1&dpID=51DZMCGMRCL&ref=plSrch

It came with 9-10 bottles of paint, 2 brushes, 3 miniatures, and a great guide/tutorial for getting started. It gives very good step by step instructions with details on all the various painting techniques for the first miniature, then recommended paints and techniques for the other two in the box. Worked really well for me for an introduction!

Now the next step is to work up the courage to apply those techniques to Mice and Mystics and Sentinel Tactics...

These are great suggestions. Other light, cheap games I enjoy are:

• Hanabi - great co-op game about fireworks. Very popular.
  
• Coloretto - well-designed set-collecting game with press your luck mechanism.
  
• Guillotine - fun silly card game about rival executioners during the French revolution, vying to chop off the heads of the highest ranked nobles.

I found a shallow one off of Amazon. Also found the black plastic tray I've heard mentioned, but the shipping on that thing is non-trivial to make it worthwhile. Looks just about perfect for the ship upgrades though.

I'm thinking one of those plastic boxes might be good enough for now. Surely it'd be better than throwing a bunch of these tiles in plastic bags.

Same here. Zero experience and no artistic ability to this point, but I was interested in fixing up Scythe and Mansions of Madness specifically. I saw this one referenced on /r/minipainting and gave it a try. I also picked up some duplicate minis from Amazon and had a "mini painting bootcamp" one Saturday with me and my three kids. Instructions were spelled out step by step, easy to follow and they actually turned out pretty well. We'll be doing a follow-up or two before diving into my actual games, but I thought it was a great way to test the waters before diving in.

It is far from my favorite game, but I think Star Realms fits this category. Super simple deck builder, super quick to play, super cheap ($13 on Amazon) and a small package (can fit in your pocket).

Ok, a $20 budget is way tougher than I expected. (Most of my normal recommendations hit around $25).

[Hive Pocket] (https://www.miniaturemarket.com/tci013.html) - $17.09 - Great chess-like strategy that can be played anywhere. The components feel great, and I really like the travel size. Plays equally well at a cafe, beach, patio, or coffee table.


Flip City - $16.06 - As a disclaimer, this is a very light deckbuilder. This game works better as a "simple zen game to decompress with" than a "game to ponder and analyze". However, it's pretty good for a light deckbuilder.

Valley of the Kings: Afterlife - $15.11 - Some people love this one, other people hate it. I fall in the former camp. This is a more unique "zen" deckbuilder that has you sacrificing your high-powered cards to convert them to victory points. One of the common complaints is that it is too easy. There are a few variants on BGG that address this.

Star Realms - $13.61 - Another "light-ish" deckbuilder. This one feels quite luck-based, but it has a quick set-up and tear down, and plays at a decent clip as well.

Well you have two options.

Either get the original game or the sequal Colony Wars. They should be around $15 each. They are both base games and play exactly the same so it doesn’t matter which one you pick up. If you like it then you can do a bit of research on where to go next.

Alternatively if you have a smart phone or a Steam account there is a free digital version on Android, iPhone, and Steam. The free version is you vs. the computer and a campaign mode. The paid version unlocks online and local multiplayer modes and additional campaign content. But the free version is enough to let you figure out if you actually want to buy the physical version.

I was interested in just painting up a few of my plastic miniatures for fun, and to make them a bit more interesting.

Got this as a starter kit, even comes with a few minis to paint so you can practice before you get started on the ones you care about: https://www.amazon.com/Reaper-Miniatures-08906-Learn-Paint/dp/B00NTMC49G

I immediately bought a couple of extra colours, but it seemed like a pretty cost effective way to get started, and it comes with some instructions around technique, using the included miniatures as examples.

I would advise against re-buying the black edition. It is nicer, but the quality is still a bit lacking. For the figures, I know people have gone to using the old micro machine models. I'm not sure how available they are/how bad shipping would be to Portugal.

For painting, I highly recommend getting this kit from Reaper. The instructions are easy to follow and it comes with everything needed to get started. Once you've painted the three included figures I would look into ordering the colors you want to use. Generally speaking, you would need to:

• Prep the figures, meaning wash them with dish soap. You can file down the mold lines first if they annoy you, I probably wouldn't bother with it.
  
• I haven't painted the Star Wars Risk ships before, but I'd suspect you'll need a primer. I think spray primer is the easiest to use. I'd go with white, I think its trickier to "paint up" from black.
  
• Primary color for each ship. This will probably be a shade of gray, with a little red mixed in to give the rebel ships that warm used feeling. I'd go a little brighter shade than you want the end product to be.
  
• A matching wash, or just a thinned and darkened version of your primer. This is a really thin, wet coat that gets into the nooks and crannies to give the model depths.
  
• Accent paint colors, like orange for the X-Wings, blacks for the windows and bright reds for the engines.
  
  I'd skip doing highlights for that many figures, and I wouldn't bother sealing them either. I'd also paint one figure of each type first, then do batch runs in series (prime everything, base coat everything, wash everything..)
  
  Hopefully this can get you started improving your set. :)

There's actually a good amount of fun games for under $40 on Amazon that I would suggest looking at.

• Pandemic | $28
  
• Catan | $30
  
• Dominion | $30
  
• 7 Wonders | $31
  
• Love Letter | $8
  
• Coup | $8
  
• Sushi Go | $10
  
• Lord of Waterdeep | $37
  
• Betrayal at House on the Hill | $34
  
• Ticket to Ride | $31
  
  These are all pretty popular games and I think they give you a good start into the different genre's of modern board games.

The Resistance is always fun and plays up to 10 people really easily. Although, some people say Avalon is better

Zombie Dice is an option for lots of people and super easy to teach.

Guillotine is a light, fun, party game that scales well. The rules are bone simple, the turns move fast, and there's enough strategy to keep your nerdcore friends happy (maybe).

http://www.amazon.com/Wizards-of-the-Coast-5510919/dp/B000ARTT7S

I am in the minority here, but I'd suggest you be relaxed about maintaining the condition of your games. Yeah, I get that they are expensive, but they are toys. My most played games are beat up because when my group gets together, we drink and eat all the cheetos money will buy. And you know what? The games still play just the same, and no one feels bad if they spill some beer on the board. It is a welcoming environment.

On the flip side, I once get yelled at for flexing my Cards Against Humanity hand. Fuck that.

A couple of additional suggestions - since I don't really like Castles of Burgundy, and I haven't played 7 Wonders Duel.

Just because it's so small, cheap, and still a great game, you should get Mint Works. Kickstarter campaign just finished, and you should still be able to get a copy here. Quick, plays up to 4, and has real strategy. A similar idea is Eight Minute Empires Legends - a small, quick game with real strategy.


Bigger, deeper games - I'm a big fan of Isle of Skye. It's a bit Carcasonne-y, in that you're building an interlocking territory, but it adds a bidding mechanic for the tiles, plus different victory conditions every game.

Five Tribes has been good, but I don't know how it'd work with 2.

If you're looking for a two player game, especially if you're cutthroat people, get Patchwork. If a more abstract strategy game is OK, I've very much enjoyed Hive.

Hanabi is a great, coop game that is about 10 dollars on Amazon right now. It plays between 2 and 5 players and is a lot of fun. It also is in a tiny box, so it makes it really easy to carry around. Definitely worth a buy.

But you are literally saying the exact same thing xTheOOBx was saying other than "I don't agree".

If the game is well stocked, it is significantly cheaper than local stores. If it isn't well stocked, it is only a little bit cheaper than your local stores. The only exception is MayFair games, where they have a cap on their retail discount.

And for what it is worth:

BGG Top 10

1. 26% Off
   
   
2. OOP/BPR
   
   
3. 35% Off
   
   
4. 31% Off
   
   
5. 27% Off
   
   
6. 25% Off
   
   
7. 37% Off
   
   
8. 28% Off
   
   
9. 32% Off
   
   
10. 23% Off
    
    
    Some other games I just stumbled across.
    
    24% Off,
    31% Off, 34% Off
    
    It looks like when I said "frequently between 30% and 40%, I was pretty damn close. It's okay to want to support the local game stores, as we all have said, they provide something more than just the game. I visit the same exact stores you do, and I know "not that much cheaper" is down right false. Buying games online is almost a buy 2-3 get 1 free - and that's not considering any significant sale.

If you can find a local game store, I'd go and ask what their policy is on returns. You could just go with a gift card to the place, though I know that can be impersonal, but if they allow it on unopened games, I'd get him something small like Zombie Dice, Hive, Codenames, Forbidden Island, or Sushi Go (all between $5 and $20 generally). If he has the game he can return it for some dice, or something else he needs, but I think the thought of going out and researching what good games are out there is nice.

Almost all of these are $15 and under (plus shipping):

Best value:

• Love Letter Factory Edition - recommend over aeg edition for the minister card
  
• Set and/or Swish - i might give swish the edge due to the ability to dial in the difficulty
  
• Coup
  
• Make your own Skull set with blank coasters and day of the dead temporary tattoos
  
• Forbidden Island - recommending over forbidden desert because scuffed tiles can spoil forbidden desert
  
  2 only:
  
  
• Cribbage
  
• What's My Word - you only need the refill pads, the rules can be read online
  
• Star Realms
  
  The 2-3 player weird spot (it's harder to find games good at this player count):
  
  
• Wurfel Bohnanza - dice! but no one will accuse you of gambling with bean dice
  
• Haggis
  
  Great with 4:
  
  
• Hanabi
  
• Sushi Go!
  
• No Thanks!
  
• Tichu - can be played with a standard deck plus four marked-up jokers
  
  Great for 5+:
  
  
• Bohnanza
  
• 6 nimmt!
  

Tried looking for some on Amazon but had no luck. Colored sleeves are usually for trading card sizes (64mm x 89mm).

Honestly, I think it'd be cheaper just to get a new copy. It's only $11.83 on Amazon right now.

You could even choose to sleeve the new ones with clear sleeves as well. That's what I did as soon as I got the game.

Hanabi, most definitely (only two in stock!). For $15 you get one of the most unique co-op card games I've ever seen. I expecting/hoping to see it win the Spiel des Jares this year.

So much fun, and it's definitely a card game you can teach to anyone, and tailor the difficulty as you see fit.

This case made by Plano is outstanding for holding everything Carcassonne. The compartments on top hold all of the tokens and them some with each being able to have their own separate compartments, and the inside compartments hold all of your tiles plus room for labeling and plenty of room for extra stuff as well. A few pieces of paper like your collections rules can also fit inside as well.

Thanks!

We'll probably have 3-6 people usually. On big nights we'll have 8-10 but at that point we'll just rotate people who will play while the others hang out.

Is this the base game?

I guess Catan on does 4 players at a time. So I saw this and I guess I have to pick it up for more people?

But apparently there are versions as well. The expansion says it only supports the 4th edition? lol. Getting confused at this point.

Depending on where you live, you might want to look for a Half Price Books near by. They usually have some good buys there, especially brand new copies of games that publishers are phasing out. I just got Power Struggle (Z-man games) there for $8, brand new.

Also, sign up for Amazon prime (if you are student, you can get free six months) if you want it fast and go with:

Power Grid

The Speicherstadt

LoTR: Board Game although this can be found much cheaper, including shipping, on eBay.

You may also want to head over to Barnes and Noble and check their clearance section. You can always get lucky and find some of their boardgames in there at 50% off.

How about Jaipur or Hive Pocket? Mr Jack Pocket is also wonderful. Star Realms is the best micro game of the year IMHO, and scales past 2P with multiple decks. Coup is also a lot of fun and quick. I personally do not like Cheaty Mages at all.

Here are a couple of options I have been enjoying:

Betrayal

Small World

Power Grid

Dominion

Most of these are slightly out of your price range, but you get what you pay for. If you are willing to spend slightly more, you open up a whole new world of possibilities.

If you do want to stick to cheaper options, Fluxx or Exploding Kittens is always a good, fun choice.

Just in case you haven't - The Resistance: Avalon is the same game rethemed with a few additional roles and abilities.

I like The Resistance... I love The Resistance: Avalon. That final Merlin point is a real heart dropper! Did they have an excellent Percival or a terrible Merlin? Or an excellent Merlin pretending to be a terrible one? Augh! :D

Guillotine. Played this game hundreds of times over the last 15-20 years or so, well worth the ten bucks I spent on it. Easy to learn, quick game, good at various levels of drunkeness, just enough strategy to make the hard core gamers happy while simple enough for even drunk idiots to play.

I am using this one: http://www.amazon.com/Plano-Molding-5231-Organizer-Porsche/dp/B000HJ9514/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413351375&sr=8-1&keywords=Xwing+case

It holds quite a bit. The top section has all the tokens and the bottom has a millennium falcon and a slave one, plus about 20 models. I could probably organize it to fit more though. I really like the all-in-one aspect. A solid choice I think. :)

It shows as $103 at Amazon right now: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LZXVN4P/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_ApfSDbX8T2KDF

Very possible that it will be further discounted for holiday sales over the next few months.

I assume you have seen the news about Gloomhavem: Subtitle it will be coming out next fall in the $50 range and provide an easier entry into Gloomhavem. That might be a way to get some friends hooked if you can wait that long. 😉

guillotine is a really great game that's cheap. great for non-gamer types, too

As I said, already, for the top 10 games you can probably get a good deal online. But, stray from that and the deals aren't as big. My gaming habits tend more towards casual, family and friend style games, which may also make a difference.

Forbidden Island - 16%

Gloom expansion - 15%

Say Anything - 12%

Munchkin - 16%

Tsuro - 19%

MLP Trading Card Game - 9%

Bananagrams - 21%

Scrabble - 15%

Apples to Apples - 0%

Oz Fluxx - 23%

Those are the last 10 games I bought. The biggest percentage is 23%, and that was only a $3 difference. The biggest dollar difference was $5. For differences that small, i'll buy local. It supports the local guy and I get it now, not several days to a week from now.

Also, the reason I don't agree with the original statement is because (as is shown in my personal examples) the online prices aren't that much less for the games I have purchased lately. And, I have never called in to any of the local stores and found that they do not have something in stock that isn't also out of stock online. So, I also disagree with the assertion that they cannot compete for item availability.

Again, I use the bookstore analogy. Sure, I may be able to get a better deal for a book online, but it's not going to stop my from heading to Powells. And, except for the most obscure of titles, i'll probably find a copy of it at Powells.

Guillotine is my favorite little card game, cheap to buy and everyone I've played it with has loved it. 2-5 players

Amazon has it for $95. A tad more expensive but worth to mention in case Amazon works better for someone.

Im a big fan of Ascension personally. Had the app forever and am finally getting a physical copy in the mail next week. Its not incredibly interactive though, only occasionaly forcing players to discard cards and such. Its all about getting points by killing monsters from the center deck (which also holds extra cards for your deck).

I cant speak to the other games you listed but if you want to pick up Dominion its super cheap right now. Amazon has it for $20 on sale. And if you have prime and live somewhere that is serviced by prime now you can get it for $10. Use the promo code PRIMENOW10 which gives you $10 off of a $20 order. I just ordered a copy for myself last night. A friend of mine already had it but its hard to turn down a $45 game for $10.

30 bucks is a bit of an awkward number. Thematic games tend to be pricier as well. Here are some recommendations off the top of my head, some end up a couple bucks over 30:

Death Angel

[Red November] (http://www.amazon.com/Fantasy-Flight-Games-SL08-November/dp/1616610638/ref=pd_sim_t_60)

[Eminent Domain] (http://www.amazon.com/Tasty-Minstrel-Games-1005TTT-Eminent/dp/0984155856/ref=pd_sim_t_57)

[Infiltration] (http://www.amazon.com/Fantasy-Flight-Games-VA79-Infiltration/dp/1616613963/ref=pd_sim_t_17)

[Power Grid] (http://www.amazon.com/Rio-Grande-Games-RGG240-Power/dp/B0007YDBLE/ref=pd_sim_t_7)

[Flash Point] (http://www.amazon.com/Indie-Boards-Cards-PSI-IBCFPF1/dp/B005YXFW1U/ref=pd_sim_t_9)

[7 Wonders] (http://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-SEV-EN01ASM-7-Wonders-Game/dp/B0043KJW5M/ref=pd_sim_t_6)

I too recommend allocating a couple extra dollars if it means getting a game you really want. Anyway, hope this helps :)

http://www.amazon.com/Mayfair-Games-MFG-3071-Edition/dp/B00U26V4VQ/ref=dp_ob_title_toy for 3-4 players

5-6 players is an entirely different, and far worse, game (it removes a push your luck mechanic that is fun and interesting, and takes a LOT longer for games because people can do stuff much more often).

I suggest other games with similar themes when you want to play with less than 3 or more than 4 people

Parthenon Rise of the Aegean for for 3-6

Chinatown for 3-5

CamelCamelCamel is the site you want to see price history of individual items on Amazon.

If you have a friendly local game store I highly suggest checking their price out and buying locally. My FLGS has Gloomhaven for $119.99 when it is in stock, cheaper than Amazon, and I get to help keep my local store in business.

• King of Tokyo
  
  
• Smash Up
  
  
• Forbidden Island
  
  
• Tsuro
  
  
• Room 25
  
  All five of these games should meet your criteria quite nicely. I think all of them, except for Room 25, have also been featured on Wil Wheaton's Table Top, if you wanna check out what the gameplay actually looks and feels like.

Dixit is great. I just got it. Lots of fun for my kids and I.

We have that version... and it's original Dixit but the International Rules edition.

The box looks almost exactly like what I guess is standard Dixit, but the board is definitely one where part of the box is what you travel around.

As others have said, Ultimate Werewolf, The Resistance, and The Resistance Avalon are all good. Other options for this type of secret-role/party game are Bang! and Samurai Sword.

Battlestar Galactica is another popular game with secret roles. However, it is much longer and more complex than the other games I mentioned.

I kept everything in the box, and it closes perfectly.

http://imgur.com/i0cwbJH

I stack the boards like this. I keep the player tokens in separate bags, along with the ore and rubies.

http://imgur.com/NuBn2vu

All the cardboard bits go into a single Plano 2-3600-01 Stowaway.

http://imgur.com/yKAglGH

All the wooden bits go into a single Plano 2-3601-00 Thin Stowaway.

http://imgur.com/YY1iU5M

It all stacks into the box just fine.

http://imgur.com/oQCnPf7

Nothing jostles, the manuals fit right on top. The lid closes tight. Everything is tight, so there's no danger of stuff shaking and breaking.

Here is a purchase link for the 3600.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000E39T50/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here is a link to the 3601.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ECQPSO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

King of Tokyo $30.35 Amazon Link|
One Night Ultimate Werewolf $19.57 Amazon Link|
Pandemic $25.72 Amazon Link|
Total Cost: 75.64
All great family games you cant go wrong with!
Plus you still have money for snacks!!

So weird. I saw it on Amazon earlier today for $10. Now it's $27 with prime. I thought it seemed low when I was making this list but figured I would throw it in since I saw it for $10. Wish I had a screen cap lol.

I have been sitting on the fence about MK but have yet to buy it myself. Too many others on the list at the moment.I am UK based as well I found this on Amazon. You will have to pay a little extra as it is being shipped from Germany but 3-4 day shipping is OK?

Let me know what you think if you purchase it, it might push me into another purchase I cannot afford :0
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/B005S8KR6Q/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&condition=new

If you enjoy Ascension, you'll probably also like Star Realms -- available on iOS here and Amazon here. It is strictly two player, but you can purchase an additional deck to have it play up to four.

/u/r2d8 getinfo

Amazon has it for $26 and free shipping if you're Prime which might be a better deal for some, as MM's shipping costs are sometimes high.

Any specific Plano model work well? I used Plano 5231 for X-Wing and that has been fantastic.

My daughter absolutely loves playing Tsuro.

Hive

Jaiper

Cash N Guns

3 games that are on my wish list. I have not played them myself, but I have heard good things.

I've seen people use all sorts of things for playmats. From black felt with white paint splashed lightly to represent stars to vinyl banners with Hubble images printed on them to elaborate Death Star terrain. Anything you think looks good in your budget will work. I think the size for tournament play is 3x3.

As for storage I love this plano box.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000HJ9514/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1404185450&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40

It fits my two cores (with cards and templates) plus all the wave one ships. There is also room to grow.

The lowest it has been on Amazon is $50, so $55 seems pretty good.

CamelCamelCamel Price History

I would suggest Tsuro since the only pieces are the tiles and the little wooden guys, and it's a fun, straightforward game.

There's also Chinese Checkers which is similar to the one you described, where you move the marbles around.

Also, there's Labyrinth, which has cards, but you only use them for reference and mostly just move the tiles.

Finally, when I was little, my grandpa made me a card stand like this to hold cards, that might work for your grandpa too.

I stil want splendor and i checked amazon.co.uk only a 8% sale compared to the 50% from usa.


http://www.amazon.co.uk/Space-Cowboys-SCSPL01-Splendor-Board/dp/B00IZEUFIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449226600&sr=8-1&keywords=splendor

Catan and maybe the 5-6 player expansion.

Those are the latest versions of the original Catan game, which basically just have new box and tile art over old versions. This version, and the previous version, have a cardboard water border, and the one before that does not.

The tile are isn't significantly different between versions, and won't be in future versions unless they go with a new illustrator or art style.

The price on Amazon is riding high right now. I'd wait a week or two to see if it drops with the after-Christmas slump. It's listed as taking 1-2 extra days to ship, which is not normal, and probably related to the increase in price.

This one: http://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-DX01US-Dixit/dp/2914849656/.

My group of friends likes games with numbers and are not the creative type so it sees no play.

Love Letter (http://www.amazon.com/Alderac-Entertainment-Group-5104AEG-Letter/dp/B00AGJ4HC2) + Dominion (http://www.amazon.com/Rio-Grande-Games-RGG370-Dominion/dp/B001JQY6K4/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1395249359&sr=1-1&keywords=dominion) = just under $40.

Get Bit

Tsuro

Walk the Plank

Bang! the Dice Game

Munchkin

all good options

/u/r2d8 getinfo

Warning: DO NOT PRE-ORDER THIS ON AMAZON RIGHT NOW.

All the shady re-sellers are doing exactly what they did during the KS campaign. They mark-up the game way above MSRP and have a completely bogus shipping date that loosely coincides with estimates from the publishers. Amazon does not hold re-sellers accountable for the illegitimate shipping dates they push in order to generate pre-orders.

Start with your FLGS and set up a notification on FunAgain, Cool Stuff or Miniature Market just in case you can't get it locally. Don't support bullshit scalpers on Amazon.

Splendor is currently at $20. http://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-SCSPL01-Splendor-Board-Game/dp/B00IZEUFIA/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1418759472&sr=1-1&keywords=splendor

(Going off current Amazon prices)

• Tanto Cuore - $40
  
• Power Grid - $32
  
• Lost Cities - $18
  
• Japanese Mahjongg set - $52
  
• Dominant Species - $61
  
• Pandemic - $28
  
• Ticket to Ride (Europe) - $40
  
• Carcassone: The River 2 - $7
  
• Carcassone: King and Scout - $6
  
  Total: $284. Could throw in something else I'm sure.

Pretty much the cheapest price for Dixit on Amazon in history. I picked up a copy.

http://camelcamelcamel.com/Asmodee-DX01US-Dixit/product/2914849656?context=browse

So does the following include all the characters?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Indie-Boards-Cards-AVA1IBC-Resistance/dp/B009SAAV0C/ref=sr_1_1?s=kids&ie=UTF8&qid=1500302596&sr=1-1&keywords=the+resistance+avalon

The reason i ask is that everybody seems to just put a bit of paper in the sleeve of a generic minion/servant to denote lovers, lancelots etc., which makes me think they're not included in the game.

Most of our board game collection is based around what my wife and I play with our daughter. However, when my in-laws come into town we do find that some specific games work better than others with them.

• Qwirkle
  
• the Hare and the Tortoise
  
• Tsuro
  
  Oddly, in our case, Sushi Go didn't work well. I think the drafting game play made sense, but we couldn't get them past the theme (such as it is).

To give people an idea, Dominion is 11.8 x 11.8 x 2.9 inches (according to Amazon, and the internal box size listed on USPS's site is 23.69 x 11.75 x 3 inches.

So, two Dominion-sized boxes should just fit side by side, but it will be a tight fit, and not allow for any additional packing.

Great List, we'll have to check some of them out.

Our absolute favorite <$20 travel games have been for a while:

1. Star Realms
   
2. Kamisado Pocket (amazon.com lists it as more expensive, but it's <$20 almost everywhere else)
   
3. Hive Pocket

Forbidden Desert $20.00: http://www.amazon.com/Gamewright-415-Forbidden-Desert-Board/dp/B00B4ECHJI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395249427&sr=8-1&keywords=forbidden+desert

Hanabi $10.00: http://www.amazon.com/R-Games-RR-869-Hanabi/dp/B00CYQ9Q76/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395249451&sr=8-1&keywords=hanabi

Love Letter $10.00: http://www.amazon.com/Alderac-Entertainment-Group-5104AEG-Letter/dp/B00AGJ4HC2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395249479&sr=8-1&keywords=love+letter

I couldn't be happier with these purchases at these prices, but there's plenty of $30+$10, $20+$20, or 4x$10 configurations you can purchase as well.

See:

http://www.reddit.com/r/boardgames/wiki/wsig/cheap

I am trying to decide between purchasing Dixit ($21.23 on Amazon at link below) and Chameleon ($23.96 at link below). I have played Chameleon and loved it, but haven't gotten to try Dixit yet. Our gaming group is usually 5-7 people.

​

https://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-DX01US-Dixit/dp/2914849656

https://www.amazon.com/The-Chameleon-Board-Game/dp/B074MVW4NQ

Some of the prices are good: Catan(great price considering how much it's gone up lately), Concept, Imperial Assault, TTR.

But most are just average prices at other shops, and some are still over average(Avalon).

Thanks for the heads up OP, I grabbed Catan finally.

Edit: looks like Catan isn't on the page anymore. But the price is still $33.

You can also try The Resistance: Avalon. My group finds it a little more balanced and enjoy the theme more.

Quick question, I'm looking to order the game and expansions on Amazon right now:

Will Power Grid Deluxe work as well with the expansions as the Original Power Grid?

Try the Plano 5231. Amazon just had them on sale for $6.99, but I'm not sure if that's still active.

Edit: Just checked. They're now $9.99 on Prime.

>Guillotine – $13.99 - 2-5 Players, 15-20 mins
Fun head to head card game

Hmmmmm

It's high right now on Amazon. Average is $63.67. Looks like you can find it cheaper elsewhere. Judging from CSI and MM being out of stock it might be in between print runs.

Looks like Amazon just got some back in stock for 19.99 + 4.99 shipping.

Skull Board Game https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GYDLY8E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_qwEYxb6165BMC

EDIT: And its back up to 39.99.

There are two Amazon listings for splendor. The one sold by Amazon is cheaper but is also a pound lighter. (Look in the product description)

Cheaper/lighter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IZEUFIA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_UsTjxb9XB6TPQ

Heavier: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S52ULMM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_HuTjxbQ4X932X

So like this one? http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00U26V4VQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1451166589&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=settlers+of+catan&dpPl=1&dpID=51RbjOvhNRL&ref=plSrch

I don't think KOT is technically on sale on Amazon. As with many board games, they are actually being sold by third-party sellers, Amazon is just fulfilling the order.

As a result, you'll often see these third-party sellers under-bidding each other by a dollar or so so that their copy comes up as the lowest-priced, and typically first bought. In fact, as I'm writing this, somebody has even underbid the price you listed and it's down to $26.72.

Historically, KOT has been sold for about $29 on Amazon:
http://camelcamelcamel.com/IELLO-IEL-51032-King-Tokyo/product/B004U5R5BI?context=browse

The one I'm thinking of was much bigger as he had done away with the box completely. More like THIS. Some of the pics in the product link are gaming related...

• Glory to Rome Black Box ~$200
  
• Twilight Struggle $33.36
  
• Agricola $43.29
  
• Red 7 $12.99
  
• Schotten Totten $14.01
  
• Patchwork $17.73
  
• A Feast for Odin (Using Caverna Amazon pricing) $78.25
  
• Food Chain Magnate ~$100
  
• The Great Zimbabwe ~$100
  
• Ghost Stories $39.99
  
• Liberty or Death: The American Insurrection $60.81
  
• Hive: Carbon $24.15
  
• Imhotep $27.49
  
• Terra Mystica $64.95
  
• Arboretum ~$15
  
• Avignon: A Clash of Popes $12
  
• Coup $7.17
  
• Grifters ~$15
  
• Broom Service $19.59
  
  This is $885.78 total so you have $114.22 left over for shipping/additional cost etc.
  
  Would then proceed to spend the next year reacquiring all of LotR:LCG and waiting for a reprint of Indonesia.

Hive Pocket is more like $20.

Are you looking for an actual game in the end, or just something to paint and play with? If the latter, check out a couple of these

This Reaper Bones "Learn to Paint" kit actually comes with 3 practice minis, as well as brushes, paints, and getting started guide:
https://www.amazon.com/Reaper-Miniatures-08906-Learn-Paint/dp/B00NTMC49G
That way, you don't worry about messing up your game-related minis.

If you already have brushes & paints, then maybe see if you can find some random cheap minis to practice with.

> 3650N

That Plano is 30$ on amazon but it fits so much better than mine!

This is mine. I may cut away some of the non-removable dividers to get more space for zombies and survivors like you have!

Also paging /u/xtcz

I'd also recommend a Plano 3600 box, it fits all the pieces perfectly

Boardgameprices: Mage Knight. I guess it won't give you the ''official'' price, but does readily display a price comparison across a number of online stores.

My (F)GLS quoted it at $60.

Edit: CCC shows the average Amazon price to be $55.31.

http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B001ECQPSO?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B000E39T50?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

These 2 did the trick for me. I'm sure if you're in the U.S. you can get them a lot cheaper. Put all the cardboard tiles in the thicker one, wooden in the thin one. I just needed to keep the rubies, ore and individual player tokens in baggies and it's proven to be a lot more convenient to use the plano boxes as the supply next to our boards. Box closes all the way when stored.

https://www.amazon.fr/Asmodee-SKR01N-Skull-Cartes-Argent/dp/B00GYDLY8E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497805198&sr=8-1&keywords=skull+jeu

Amazon France, don't know if that is any good for you - but it is widely available.

Yeah, currently $42 on amazon.

Not a Board Game, but you can buy the reaper kit on amazon that comes with everything you need including a few minis to practice on.

Reaper Miniatures 08906 Learn To Paint Bones Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NTMC49G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Bc9CybJAZXE9K

I want to know how this is fair:

same product, Amazon.ca

http://www.amazon.ca/Plano-Molding-5231-Double-Organizer/dp/B000HJ9514/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1404186251&sr=8-1&keywords=Plano+Molding+5231

$43 vs $10

edit: Just did a test, purchasing it through the US Amazon.com and shipping to Canada would be a final cost of $17.77. Not bad really.

http://www.amazon.com/Rio-Grande-Games-RGG370-Dominion/dp/B001JQY6K4/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1449772210&sr=1-1&keywords=dominion <Enter> It isn't a bad price, was on sale last week for just $19.99. If you want a full review I did one on Episode 5 of my podcast and that will be up on Friday. www.soundcloud.com/twoboardguyspodcast

Mage Knight is only $80 right now on Canadian Amazon, if that applies to you!

EDIT: Amazon has it in stock!
: http://www.amazon.com/Eclipse-New-Dawn-Galaxy/dp/B006L7KIWG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1323930541&sr=8-1

Yeah that's the one I believe! There is another kit with near the exact name that I was thinking of but they appear to be basically the same thing:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00NTMC49G/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1520570884&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=reaper+learn+to+paint+kit&dpPl=1&dpID=51TeFEhhzgL&ref=plSrch

Bohnanza
$14.14 - 2-7 players

Codenames
$14.47 - 2-8+ players

Pandemic
$21.24 - 2-4 players

San Juan
$22.02 - 2-4 players

Dominion
$25.49 - 2-4 players

Ticket To Ride
$32.29 - 2-5 players

Agricola
$44.99 - 1-4 players

Race For The Galaxy
$22.90 - The base game, 2-4 players
Race For The Galaxy: The Gathering Storm
$18.95 - Expansion #1, adds a 5th player and solitaire play
Race For The Galaxy: Rebel Vs. Imperium
$17.99 - Expansion #2, adds a 6th player

Here's an Amazon link without a referral code: http://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-ECLI01USASM-Eclipse-Board-Game/dp/B006L7KIWG

Amazon has it for $19.99 right now.

It's $26 on Amazon right now, plus shipping.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IZEUFIA/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?qid=1411995384&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70

Edit: Whoops, just noticed you're on the other side of the planet.

$140 on Amazon, just above $100 if you have prime

Just get it on Amazon for $120

Gloomhaven Board Game https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LZXVN4P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_7NSrzb7QFPMSR

Amazon occasionally has it on sale for cheaper, but it's cheaper there right now than any of the other options.

Dixit $21.23

Patchwork $17.84

Catan Family $16.80

Agricola $32.89

Power Grid isn't listed, but is also 50% off (51% actually).

It's not on the sale page but Power Grid is currently $22

EDIT: Dead/sold out

Here's a listing:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000E39T50/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1465564086&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=plano+3600&dpPl=1&dpID=41rtx9d7btL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

It's a Plano box.

People suggest using Plano Boxes and A4 plastic boxes

This redditor compacted his whole collection into these cases and stashed the bulky air boxes

There's a Plano tool box where the related items are almost exclusively X-Wing ships.

Was this meant to link to the deal?

edit: King of NY - $30, King of Tokyo - $30

Carcassonne

Las Vegas

King of Tokyo

Ticket to Ride

Mage Knight: The Board Game [$63.63] is also on sale! Got it myself yesterday.

Mage Knight is also on sale today and checks many of your boxes.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006L7KIWG?cache=627c3b911c0bde361f8248ab086a5373&pi=SX200_QL40&qid=1410194581&sr=8-1#ref=mp_s_a_1_1

It's widely available for much less.

Source

http://www.amazon.com/Gen42-Games-5513668-Hive-Pocket/dp/B0079L0EKY

~$20 for hive pocket that comes with both expansions

There are a lot of hidden deals, just filter the games section by 25% off or more and look through the list. Here are all the notable ones:

$39.66 http://www.amazon.ca/Fantasy-Flight-Games-Chaos-World/dp/1589946510/

$40.12 http://www.amazon.ca/Rio-Grande-Games-Roll-Galaxy/dp/B00OYUZRIW/

$28.74 http://www.amazon.ca/Stronghold-Games-1002SG-Core-Worlds/dp/B0060K9W94/

$18.56 http://www.amazon.ca/The-Distribution-Solutions-Hive-Pocket/dp/B0079L0EKY/

$30.88 http://www.amazon.ca/Queen-Games-QUG60941-Edo/dp/B00720PO0W/

$24.76 http://www.amazon.ca/AEG-Doomtown-Reloaded-Base-Set/dp/B00LWDWZDY/

$22.03 http://www.amazon.ca/Magic-Gathering-Arena-Planeswalkers-Game/dp/B00ZR2U1N2/

$60.46 http://www.amazon.ca/Rio-Grande-Games-RGG-425/dp/B003Y737CO/

$37.98 http://www.amazon.ca/Fantasy-Flight-Games-Arkham-Horror/dp/1589942108/

$40.02 http://www.amazon.ca/Fantasy-Flight-Games-Eldritch-Horror/dp/1616617667/

$58.33 http://www.amazon.ca/Fantasy-Flight-Games-Descent-Journeys/dp/1616611898/

$27.97 http://www.amazon.ca/STAR-WARS-GM-Risk-Game/dp/B00ZR2TVLA/

$47.53 http://www.amazon.ca/Rio-Grande-Games--Galaxy-Trucker/dp/B000XLU8H6/

$64.67 http://www.amazon.ca/Mayfair-MFG-3501-Caverna-Farmers/dp/B00G3FV2TO/

So far I found Resistance: Avalon 28% off

Codenames 30% off


7 Wonders 44% off


Pandemic 38% off

Yup. Amazon's at $11.30 right now.

Ticket to Ride: Europe

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Days-of-Wonder-DOW-7202/dp/B000809OAO

Hanabi +1

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Games-Hanabi-Card-Game/dp/B00CYQ9Q76

Timeline: Inventions +1

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Asmodee-ASMCARCH01UK-Timeline-Inventions/dp/B00L9GJ34I

Ingenious

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sophisticated-Games-SOP31602-Ingenious-Strategy/dp/B000F46CWQ/

Forbidden Desert +1

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gamewright-415-Forbidden-Desert-Game/dp/B00B4ECHJI

Scotland Yard

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Ravensburger-26646-Scotland-Yard-Game/dp/B00LGWRTS2/

Friday

One Deck Dungeon

Hanabi

Coup Card Game (The Resistance Universe) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GDI4HX4/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_ptIcvb0XVTDCT
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GDI4HX4/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_ptIcvb0XVTDCT

I would get Coup

Coup?

Skull

Asmodee Skull https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GYDLY8E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_yyDKBbXTYHDZV

Also on Amazon.de

https://www.amazon.de/gp/aw/d/B00GYDLY8E/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?__mk_de_DE=%C3%85M%C3%85Z%C3%95%C3%91&qid=1497811471&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=skull+game&dpPl=1&dpID=61Pka4ust5L&ref=plSrch

https://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-SKR01-Skull/dp/B00GYDLY8E

Also known as Skull & Roses

Short: Skull (2-6 players)
Long(er): 7 Wonders (3-7 players)
Co-Op: Pandemic: Iberia (2-5 players)
(Note: Z-Man is the English version and looks to be cheaper. I believe Devir does the localization for Spain.)

https://www.amazon.com/White-Wizard-Games-Realms-Deckbuilding/dp/B00HRGMPIU/ref=sr_1_3?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1480169557&sr=1-3&keywords=star+realms

Currently $28.97 2 day shipping with Prime http://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-SCSPL01-Splendor-Board-Game/dp/B00IZEUFIA/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1458233018&sr=1-1&keywords=Splendor

It just went back up to $23.85 for me. Link

This is the version you want. This is actually the cheapest price I could find. Miniature Market and Coolstuff Inc (the two largest, cheapest online game stores in the US) didn't have it at all.