Best Beginner Board Games
Congratulations - you have decided to take off those training wheels, put down that deck of Uno cards, and dip your toe into the exciting hobby world of board games! Now, before you reach for that box of Twilight Imperium or put your investigator pants on to trot around the city of Arkham (the Cthulhu one, not the one with Batman), it’s important to work up that level of game complexity. There are a ton of great games that are far more welcoming to learn and play, to help ease you into things, but a lack of complexity doesn’t mean a lack of fun
The following games on this list were compiled to point new players towards experiences that, first off, won’t break the bank, secondly, give you a good foundational understanding of some popular mechanics and game types, and finally, be a blast to play, whether that's with your friends, partner, or a random person at your local game shop.
Azul Quick Facts
MSRP: $39.99
With colorful plastic tiles and a simple premise - collect sets of similar tiles to score points - Azul is a great game for folks who want to dabble in the hobby of board games. The goal is to fill up a small grid, earning points by completing lines and connecting filled-in spots on your grid to each other. It's been said before, but it rings true for Azul: It's quick to learn, but it takes time to master and figure out strategies. This makes Azul a great addition to any existing board game player’s collection as well.
As an added bonus, there are a number of variants that change out the theme while retaining the core gameplay. For example, if you are more of a fan of chocolates and treats than colors and patterns, perhaps Azul: Master Chocolatier would be more up your alley.
Ticket to Ride Quick Facts
MSRP: $54.99
Ticket to Ride is one of those games that could find a place on any person's game shelf - whether they’re longtime players with an established game group or a family getting into the hobby. The premise is relatively simple: use matching colored train
Read more on ign.com
