I am passionate about playing board games. Years ago, at a cool employer, I had a “game group” where we met after work and kept trying out new games. That was sooo cool. But I also started playing games with our children early on. Funnily enough, my parents are also enthusiastic “players” and kept bringing home new treasures. My mother always paid close attention to the award-winning games and very often bought them too. We also used to go to game fairs more often to try out games. So by now I have quite a few games that are also among the Games of the Year.
Every year since 1979, a game has been awarded “Game of the Year”. The “Game of the Year” jury has strict criteria by which a game is evaluated.
Evaluation of the games for “Game of the Year”
The jury consists of a small number of game critics. For the evaluation, there are 4 major key points that are used for the final award
Game idea
What is the game idea like, is it fun to play the game, how is the playability, is the idea original, and what is the replay value?
Game rules
What are the game rules like, is everything understandable and clearly arranged?
Game materials
How are the game materials made and how do they relate to functionality?
Graphics
What are the illustrations in the instructions and on the game board as well as on the game box like?
These days you have to be careful whether it really is a Game of the Year; often the games are also marked with “Nominated for Game of the Year” or “Expert Game of the Year”, etc. But these are usually very good too; I already have some really great games in my collection here, such as “Living Forest”, “Nova Luna”, etc.
Game of the Year – a list of the award-winning games
Here I would like to list the award-winning games for you. Some of them I can call my own and have reviewed for you:
Game of the Year 2024: Sky Team
In this 2-player game, the players must take on the role of pilots and safely land a passenger aircraft together, without discussing it.
Sequence of play
In this game, the players must use their dice and adjust the speed or deploy the landing gear. But discussions are forbidden.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Logical thinking
- Strategic thinking
- Social skills
Age
- ages 12 and up
Players
- 2 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Sky Team
My conclusion about the game “Sky Team”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2023: Dorfromantik
For the year 2023, the game Dorfromantik was awarded. This game is based on a successful video game.
Sequence of play
In the game, up to 6 players place their tiles together to form a landscape. To get points, not only must tasks from the population be completed, but rivers or tracks should also be made as long as possible. Completed areas also score points. The winner is the one with the most points.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Logical thinking
- Solve tasks
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 1-6 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores or on Amazon: Dorfromantik on Amazon
My conclusion about the game Dorfromantik
I don’t know this game yet, but it sounds like a mix of Carcassonne and Settlers.
Game of the Year 2022: Cascadia
In this game, a beautiful landscape is created that must be populated with wildlife.
Sequence of play
In this game, wilderness tiles must be placed, and for each game a scoring card is laid out for each of the 5 animal species; they indicate how the animals must be settled in the best possible way. A turn always consists of 4 phases: check for overpopulation, take a wilderness tile and animal, place the wilderness tile and animal in the landscape, and refill the display.
Learning objective
- Logical thinking
- Puzzle game
- Tile-laying game
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 1-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Cascadia
My conclusion about the game “Cascadia”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2021: MicroMacro: Crime City
This game is a hidden-object crime game in which the players must solve crimes and arrest the culprit.
Sequence of play
The players form an investigation team and solve 16 cases one after another. The case is presented on the 1st card; depending on whether you want to play with a difficult or easy level, the case can be solved only with the help of the game board. For an easier investigation, additional cards can be used.
Learning objective
- Puzzle game
- Logical thinking
- Social skills
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 1-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: MicroMacro: Crime City
Extra tip: There are already various versions of this base game available to buy.
My conclusion about the game “MicroMacro: Crime City”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2020: Pictures
Pictures was named Game of the Year in 2020. It is a very creative family game with very simple rules.
Sequence of play
The players must recreate photos using different sets of materials. The material sets can be strings, building blocks, cards, etc. The player who guesses the card correctly receives one point. The winner is, of course, the player with the most points.
Learning objective:
- Imagination
- Creativity
- Combining
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 3-5 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores or on Amazon: Pictures on Amazon
Extra tip: There are now a few expansions for the game: USA, X-Mas, Orange
My conclusion about the game Pictures
I like the game very much; it doesn’t get boring, because the material sets and many cards always create new combinations. This game is absolutely recommended for those who don’t want to read long instructions. Clear purchase recommendation.
Game of the Year 2019: Just One
Over 13 rounds, the players try to provide the most suitable clues possible and guess many of the 13 terms.
Sequence of play
The guesser puts up a card, seeing only the back. Once a term has been determined, the other players must write exactly one word on the clue board. Without discussion. Certain rules specify which clues may be given. Then the guesser closes their eyes, the other players turn over their clue boards, erase duplicate or invalid entries, and then the guesser can look and guess.
Learning objective
- Guessing game
- Word game
- Association game
- Social skills
- Communication game
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 3-7 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Just One
My conclusion about the game “Just One”
A funny communication game where you have to guess quickly; the clues are sure to create funny situations. We like Just One; especially when you are a large group, it is excellent.
Game of the Year 2018: Azul
In Azul, every point is fought for by placing beautiful tiles in the right pattern.
Sequence of play
In this game, each player receives a player board with a score track, 5 pattern rows of different lengths, a negative floor row, and the wall to be played on. Depending on how many people are playing, 5, 7, or 9 factory tiles must be laid out. Then the fight for points begins within the 3 phases.
Learning objective
- Guessing game
- Word game
- Association game
- Social skills
- Communication game
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Azul
Extra tip: There are now various variants and expansions for the base game
My conclusion about the game “Colt Express”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2017: Kingdomino
In this game, the players build their kingdom within a grid of 5×5 spaces around their own castle.
Sequence of play
Each player receives a castle, a playing figure, and a starting tile. 4 domino tiles are drawn and placed in ascending order by number. In player order, each player places a king on a domino tile. Then another 4 domino tiles are drawn, placed in ascending numerical order, and turned over. Now, in order, each player takes their player and the domino tile and must place it according to specific placement rules. Points are awarded for each matching area.
Learning objective
- Tile-laying game
- Combining
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Kingdomino
My conclusion about the game “Kingdomino”
Game of the Year 2016: Codenames
In this game, the players must play in teams and decipher the agents’ code words.
Sequence of play
The 2 teams choose a spymaster and, with the help of clue words, must decipher the correct codes and find their agents.
Learning objective
- Guessing game
- Word game
- Association game
- Social skills
- Communication game
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-8 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Codenames
My conclusion about the game “Colt Express”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2015: Colt Express
Colt Express does without a game board entirely, but is played with 3-D structures and cards. It is about a train robbery in the Wild West, and everyone wants to make the big score. Here, planning is everything; the only problem is that everyone plans at the same time and the situation may already be completely different.
Sequence of play
Each player plans their action for the entire round at the same time as the others; to do this, they place a card face up on a shared pile. Actions can include: climbing onto the roof or into the carriage, moving the sheriff, shooting a player in the neighboring carriage, etc. This creates great scenarios, because, for example, you plan to move your figure to another player, take their loot with a punch, and climb onto a roof. The only problem is that the other player may no longer be there and the sheriff may come into the carriage.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Strategic thinking
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-6 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Colt Express
My conclusion about the game “Colt Express”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2014: Camel Up
Crazy camel race where the players try to have the most money at the end through betting and actions.
Sequence of play
On a turn, the players have the following options: either they shake the dice pyramid and move forward, or they bet on a camel (the first or the last), or they place a desert tile on the racetrack, or they bet on the end of the leg. Money has to be earned here, because the one who has the most at the end of the game is the winner.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Combining
- Estimation game
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-8 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Camel up
My conclusion about the game “Camel up”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2013: Hanabi
Hanabi is an unusual card game where the players must play their cards in order by colors and numbers. The funny thing is that you do not see your own cards, only those of the other players.
Sequence of play
Each player receives 4 or 5 cards depending on the number of players, which they hold face down in their hand (so you yourself only see the back!). When it is your turn, you must choose an action: either you give a player a clue, discard a card, or play a card.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Combining
- Social skills
- Communication game
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-5 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Hanabi
My conclusion about the game “Hanabi”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2012: Kingdom Builder
In this game, each player must create their own kingdom.
Sequence of play
Each player receives 40 settlements, a gold marker, and a terrain card from the draw pile. Each turn, a terrain card is played, a settlement is built, and possibly a special action is also carried out; at the end, a terrain card is drawn. The Kingdom Builder cards determine which conditions must be met in order to receive as many victory points as possible at the end.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Strategic thinking
- Logical thinking
- Combining
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Kingdom Builder
My conclusion about the game “Kingdom Builder”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2011: Qwirkle
This game is an abstract tile-laying game where you have to place up to 6 tiles in a matching way.
Sequence of play
Each player receives a supply of 6 tiles, which must be placed. In turn, the players must place one to 6 matching tiles, then refill their supply back up to 6 tiles. Immediately after placement, the turn is scored and you receive points. Of course, there are specific placement rules here. The tiles can be placed by shape or by color. Shapes may not appear twice in a row of 6. The winner is the one with the most points.
Learning objective
- Tactical thinking
- Combining
- Logical thinking
- Strategic thinking
Age
- ages 6 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Qwirkle
My conclusion about the game “Qwirkle”
I think this game is great; it is easy to learn, goes quite quickly, and is possible for children from age 6 and up. We like the game very much!
Game of the Year 2010: Dixit
Dixit is an association and estimation game. Using cards, the players must score points, both the player who lays out the card and the other players who must find the right card.
Sequence of play
each player receives cards in hand; whoever’s turn it is places one of them face down in the middle of the table and briefly describes this card with an expression, sentence, sound, or whatever comes to mind. Now the other players must place a card from their hand face down to match it. All cards are shuffled and laid out face up. Now the other players must guess which card belongs to the active player. For a correct guess, the active player and the correct guesser receive 3 points; 1 point is awarded to the player whose card was incorrectly guessed. The winner is the one with the most points.
Learning objective
- Imagination
- Combining
- Social skills
- Communication game
- Association game
- Estimation game
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 3-8 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Dixit on Amazon
Extra tip: For the game Dixit there is an expansion, ‘Dixi Odyssey’, where you can play together with up to 12 players:
My conclusion about the game “Dixit”
We have played this game many times and like it very much. We also bought the expansion so that we can play with more people and have many new cards included.
Game of the Year 2009: Dominion
In this card game, the goal is to use money to acquire special cards that allow actions in order to gain more money or victory points through lands.
Sequence of play
Each player receives a few money cards and a few victory point cards. Each player whose turn it is plays exactly one action card from their 5-card hand. Then they can buy exactly one card. Then cards are drawn again so that there are 5 in hand again. The goal is to have the most victory points.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Strategic thinking
- Combining
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 13 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Dominion
Extra tip: There are already expansions for this game: “Plunder”, “Allies”, etc.
My conclusion about the game “Dominion”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2008: Keltis
In this game, the competitors compete on 5 paths at once. Cards must be played in matching ways here so that you receive points. If you discard too many cards, your opponent may need them, but keeping too many useless cards makes no sense either. Good tactics are required here!
Sequence of play
The player must first play a card, either placing it unused on a pile, or starting a new number sequence in one of the 5 colors of the stone paths, or continuing one that has already been laid out. With each card laid out, their own playing figure may move forward one space on the stone path. There are also path tiles here that can provide certain advantages. The winner is the one with the most points.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Logical thinking
- Combining
- Strategic thinking
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Keltis
My conclusion about the game “Keltis”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2007: Zooloretto
The players are transported to the zoo and start with 3 empty enclosures and some pocket money. The goal is to create a functioning zoo.
Sequence of play
Each player receives some money and 3 empty enclosures. Each player in turn turns over a tile and places it face up in a transport truck as they wish. Stalls go on the designated stall spaces, cash goes into the till, and the animals go into the enclosures, but watch out: the animals must be kept by species, which can quickly become a problem with 3 enclosures. Points are awarded for completely filled enclosures; the winner is, of course, the one with the most points.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Combining
- Strategic thinking
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-5 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Zooloretto
Extra tip: there are expansions, new editions, and children’s editions here.
My conclusion about the game “Zooloretto”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2006: Thurn and Taxis
This Game of the Year is a card-collecting and card-laying game. The goal is to build many routes and cities and collect points.
Sequence of play
The player whose turn it is must take a card, discard one, and can score a display. One of 4 officials can help them. The cards that are laid out must match those already laid out; routes and cities are built here. Once you have reached a route of 3 or 4 cards, you can score it.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Strategic thinking
- Logical thinking
- Combining
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Thurn and Taxis
Extra tip: there are also expansions available to buy here: 1st expansion Power and Glory, 2nd expansion All Roads Lead to Rome.
My conclusion about the game “Thurn and Taxis”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2005: Niagara
Gripping treasure hunt in a race against the current and the opponents. Here, gems must be collected and brought back safely; the other players often interfere, because they can influence the river or steal gems.
Sequence of play
In this game, the players must first decide whether they want to move their 2 boats or influence the water. In addition, they have a set of paddle cards available, which also influence the boat or the river. The goal is to collect gems and bring them to a safe place. But of course that’s not all: opponents can steal gems and the river speed can be increased at exactly the wrong moment, so that some canoes get into serious trouble.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 3-5 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Niagara
My conclusion about the game “Niagara”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2004: Ticket to Ride – Days of Wonder base game
This is about timing: when do you strike when building routes, when do you take cards, and above all, which ones?
Sequence of play
Each player must always carry out exactly one of 3 actions: either draw 2 train car cards from the face-up or face-down pile, ‘use’ a route and occupy it with their playing pieces, or draw “destination tickets”. If they manage to connect the named cities with their own train car pieces, they receive points; if not, these points are deducted at the end of the game. The winner is the one with the most points.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Strategic thinking
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-5 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, used, or on Amazon: Ticket to Ride
Extra tip: There are already various versions, such as “Paris”, “Germany”, “Europe”, “World Tour”, etc.
My conclusion about the game “Ticket to Ride”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2003: The Palace of Alhambra
In this tile-laying game, everyone builds their palace. Only sometimes the other players get in your way, because they want to try something similar.
Sequence of play
The players must build a palace and start with some money and a tile. On each turn, you can receive more money or acquire buildings. Whoever can no longer expand their palace ends the game.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Strategy game
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-6 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, of course also used or on Amazon: The Palace of Alhambra
My conclusion about the game “The Palace of Alhambra”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2002: Villa Paletti
Competitive column stacking, where good planning is required.
Sequence of play
Each player receives a color and 5 matching wooden columns. One after another, all the columns are placed on the lowest building level; now the player who has no columns left must place the next building level on the columns. At least 3 columns must be covered here – you can already see that it is clever to spare your own columns, because now the columns in your color must be distributed from the lower level to the 2nd level. The player who is the first to place a column on the top platform receives the master builder seal.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Combining
- Logical thinking
- Strategic thinking
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Villa Paletti
My conclusion about the game “Villa Paletti”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 2001: Carcassonne
This strategy game is Game of the Year 2001 and very well made for children and adults. Finally also a very good game that you can play as a pair; there aren’t sooo many good games like that.
Sequence of play
Everyone receives a few landscape tiles, which they must put together into one big whole, but beware: you spend hours building your beautiful big city and then another player comes along and connects with you, and the points dwindle. At the end, the points are counted and the winner is the one with the most points.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Planning
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-5 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores or on Amazon: Carcassonne
Extra tip: There are numerous expansions here
- Inns & Cathedrals expansion
- Traders and Builders expansion
- Expansion: The Princess and The Dragon
- The Tower
- Abbey and Mayor
- Count, King and Company
- The Catapult
- Bridges, Castles and Bazaars
- Sheep and Hills
- Let the show begin!
- The River
- King and Scout
- The Cathars
- The Count of Carcassonne
- The River II
- Mini Expansion
- The Shrine
- Cult, Siege and Creativity
- The Tunnel
- The Crop Circles
- The Plague
- The School
- The Festival
- The Entourage
- The Flying Machines
- The Dispatches
- The Ferries
- The Gold Mines
- Mage & Witch
- The Robbers
- The Crop Circles II
- The Wind Roses
- The Houses
- The Besiegers
- Monasteries in Germany
- Dutch Monasteries
- Half as Wild I
- Half as Wild II
- Darmstadt Plays
- Castles in Germany
- The Labyrinth
- Cathedrals in Germany
- Monasteries/Temples in Japan
- The Watchtowers
- Markets of Leipzig
- The Fruit Trees
- Unnamed Mini Expansion 2018
- The Bathhouse Keepers
- The Toll Collectors
- Maps
- The Peasant Revolts
- The Surveyors
- The Gifts
- The Signposts
- The Wagers
- Wonders of Humanity
- The Drawbridges
- Spring
My verdict on the game Carcassonne
One of my favorite games because it is so varied, and also tricky; you never know what will come next. As already mentioned, it is also great for two players. I also bought 2 expansions: Carcassonne 1st Expansion Inns & Cathedrals and Carcassonne, Traders and Builders. A clear recommendation to buy.
Game of the Year 2000: Torres
Build castles as tall as possible and occupy them with your knights. But watch out for the other players; your plans will often be thwarted.
Sequence of play
Each player receives 4 stacks with 2 floors each as their supply. Now everyone has to build their castles as high as possible, since unfortunately there is not much space on the game board. The additional problem is that the castles must not touch each other, and action cards also come into play.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Logical thinking
- Strategic planning
- Combining
Age
- ages 12 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Torres
My verdict on the game “Torres”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 1999: Tikal
Here you take on the role of expedition leaders who want to discover the Mayan temples and find treasures.
Sequence of play
You start in a base camp, which is explored more and more by placing tiles. Temples, treasures, expedition camps and volcanoes can then be found on the game board. On each turn, every player may distribute 10 action points among up to 18 members of their expedition. You collect points by occupying or expanding temples, as well as by recovering treasures.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Planning
- Logical thinking
- Combining
- Social behavior
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Tikal
My verdict on the game “Tikal”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 1998: Elfenland
Young elves must travel to many towns and villages and use the typical means of transport along the way.
Sequence of play
In 4 rounds, the young elves have to travel to as many places as possible. Tiles are collected here in order to use connection options that depend on the landscape. These alone are not enough; travel cards must also be available. Whoever has the most town markers at the end of the game wins.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Planning
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-6 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Elfenland
My verdict on the game “Elfenland”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 1997: Mississippi Queen
An exciting race of paddle steamers on a river where you do not know how it runs. You should also keep an eye on your coal supply; if you have too little, you are eliminated.
Sequence of play
Each player receives a small paddle steamer with 2 paddle wheels, one showing the current speed and one showing the coal supply. On each turn, you can reduce or increase your speed by one point, and you can also turn the ship up to 60 degrees. When turning or regulating speed, coal must be spent. Whoever has none left is eliminated. Only when a ship reaches a new game board element is another one added, so the river takes a different course in every game.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 3-5 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Mississippi Queen
My verdict on the game “Mississippi Queen”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 1996: El Grande
This game takes the players to Spain in the 15th century. 5 high-ranking nobles fight with their subordinate caballeros for their independence and supremacy in the country.
Sequence of play
5 tribes vie for power; 30 caballeros are available to each player’s grande. The game is played over 6 or 9 rounds, in which power cards are played; after every 2nd or 3rd round, the majorities are scored. It can also be played very well with two players.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Strategy
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-5 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: El Grande on Amazon
My verdict on the game “El Grande”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either. But it does sound a bit complicated.
Game of the Year 1995: The Settlers of Catan
The Game of the Year 1995 is ‘The Settlers of Catan’ and deservedly so! Here, trading skill and strategic thinking are required. Which resources do I need, and where is the best place for me to position myself?
Sequence of play
In “The Settlers of Catan,” the aim is to harvest as many suitable (!) resources as possible and create your empire. Houses become cities, and action cards are also bought in between. But where is the best place to put your city, and which number comes up most often? The winner is the one who rakes in the most points.
Learning objective:
- Tactics
- Planning
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 3-4 players
Buying tip
You can buy The Settlers of Catan in any toy store or on Amazon: The Settlers of Catan
Extra tip: There are already several expansions for it:
- Seafarers (I can recommend it)
- Cities and Knights
- Traders and Barbarians
- Explorers and Pirates
For younger players there is “Catan Junior” from age 6, which I can also highly recommend.
My verdict on the game “The Settlers of Catan”
A very brilliant game and also near the top of my list of favorite games. I also bought the supplemental game, Historical Scenarios and Seafarers.
Game of the Year 1994: Manhattan
A building game for up to 4 players. In this game you have to decide whether to make your own building or join in with the competition.
Sequence of play
Each player receives several building cards; before each start, they choose a few building parts from their supply and place them on the building cards. Here you can either build on your own building or on a fellow player’s. After each round there is a scoring, and whoever has the most victory points at the end wins.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Logical thinking
- Strategy
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Manhattan on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Manhattan”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either.
Game of the Year 1993: Bluff
A fun bluffing game with dice, easy to explain, making it suitable for young and old. Guaranteed gaming fun!
Sequence of play
Each player receives 5 dice, which have the values 1 to 5 and a star. The star is a joker and can therefore be used as any number. Everyone then rolls their dice face down at the same time and then bets. You have to guess how many digits you think are under the cup. The next player believes them and has to bid their digits higher, or they lift the cup and the digits are compared with reality. You lose your dice if it does not match! The winner is the one who still has dice.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Bluffing
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 12 and up
Players
- 2-6 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores or on Amazon: Bluff on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Bluff”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either, but it sounds very funny.
Game of the Year 1992: Um Reifenbreite
This game is intended for cycling fans. Up to 4 players set out to win a cycling race, and typical cycling-race challenges have to be mastered here: mountain stages, sprints or cobblestones. This game is a relaxed but also quite tactical racing game.
Sequence of play
Each player receives 4 riders, who are controlled with dice. Event cards keep stirring this game up and promise gaming fun.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Team spirit
- Logical thinking
- Strategy
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Um Reifenbreite on Amazon.
My verdict on the game “Um Reifenbreite”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either, but it sounds quite fun.
Game of the Year 1991: Drunter und Drüber
The citizens of Schilda are building a new town and outdoing each other at building. When a vote is held in a round on whether to preserve a toilet, fun is guaranteed.
Sequence of play
The players try to save their assigned types of buildings (museum, fire station, church, etc.) from the other players’ frenzy of building over them. But you also have to keep your building type secret. The winner is the player whose buildings are best represented in the new town.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Bluffing
- Logical thinking
Age
- from age 9
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Drunter und Drüber on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Drunter und Drüber”
Unfortunately, we have never played this game either, but it sounds very funny.
Game of the Year 1990: Adel verpflichtet
In this game you are a collector with really great exhibition objects that have to be exhibited again and again so that you earn money and, of course, sit far forward at the dinner table. But beware: thieves keep interfering and immediately change the course of events.
Sequence of play
The players receive hand cards with which they must interact, as well as collectibles. In each round, everyone plays simultaneously and you have to decide WHERE you play and WHAT you do. The WHERE options are: castle or auction house, and the WHAT options are: buy an object, put on an exhibition, play a thief or a detective. The winner is the one who sits furthest forward at the dinner table.
Learning objective
- Tactics
Age
- ages 12 and up
Players
- 2-5 players
Buying tip
This game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; rather look used or on Amazon: Adel verpflichtet on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Adel verpflichtet”
A brilliant game and absolutely near the top of my favorite games. It is sooo unpredictable: will a thief come and take something from you, if you play the thief, will a detective catch you? And can I win with my exhibition? A clear recommendation to buy—definitely!
Game of the Year 1989: Café International
Here it depends on the composition; whoever can distribute the right people among the tables wins.
Sequence of play
Each player receives a guest card; on their turn, a maximum of 2 cards are placed at the tables, and the nationality must match. But it depends on the composition: for example, at each table there may be at most one more woman than men, or one more man than women. For a placed card you receive one point. The player with the most points wins.
Learning objective
- Combining
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores and also on Amazon: Café International on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Café International”
We skipped this game again and I have never played it. Unfortunately, I cannot say anything about it.
Game of the Year 1988: Barbarossa
A wonderfully creative game that uses modeling clay and requires questions to be asked.
Sequence of play
In this game, the players have to represent terms in modeling clay that the others have to guess over the course of the game. It is not easy, because the only answers to your questions are “yes,” “maybe” or “no.” The winner is the person who reaches the top of the track first.
Learning objective
- Creativity
- Puzzling
- Social skills
- Communication
Age
- ages 12 and up
Players
- 3-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores and also on Amazon: Barbarossa on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Barbarossa”
A really successful game, because here you really get to/have to be creative. A clear recommendation to buy.
Game of the Year 1987: Auf Achse
In this game, the players take on the role of a haulier and have to complete their orders as quickly as possible.
Sequence of play
The players start with starting capital, a truck and 3 orders. The order card shows the starting point and destination, the number of goods that have to be transported and how much you earn. Now the dice are rolled and everyone tries to complete their orders as quickly as possible. The winner is the player with the most cash.
Learning objective
- Logical thinking
- Tactics
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-6 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores and also on Amazon: Auf Achse on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Auf Achse”
We had this game as children; I think my brother got it later because it was originally bought more for him anyway. It is not that bad, but it was never really one of my favorite games. Maybe it is more for car-loving children.
Game of the Year 1986: Heimlich & Co
The Game of the Year 1986 is a nice game for the whole family. Many agents march through the city on a game board, but who is which agent?
Sequence of play
Each player draws an agent card and thus has their ‘own’ agent on the board, but shh, that must not be revealed, otherwise the other agents will move you onto houses with no points or even with negative points. When an agent stops on the house with the safe, the points are awarded. Tactics are required here: how do you win without attracting attention?
Learning objective:
- Tactics
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-7 players
Buying tip
Unfortunately, this game is hardly available in toy stores anymore; it is better to look used or perhaps still on Amazon: Heimlich und Co on Amazon.
My verdict on the game “Heimlich & Co”
A great game, always funny and tricky not to give yourself away by making too many points. A clear recommendation to buy!
Game of the Year 1985: Sherlock Holmes – Criminal Cabinet
This game is not like a usual board game. It requires a lot of imagination, logical thinking and deduction.
Sequence of play
The players slip into different roles and try to solve a criminal case with Sherlock Holmes. Many booklets with texts are included, as well as a game board.
Learning objective
- Combining
- Logical thinking
- Tactics
- Imagination
- Role-playing game
- Puzzling
Age
- ages 12 and up
Players
- 1-6 players
Buying tip
This game is not really available to buy anymore, more likely used or on Amazon: Sherlock Holmes Criminal-Cabinet on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Sherlock Holmes – Criminal Cabinet”
This game is not for everyone; anyone who enjoys speculation and more role-playing games is well advised here, but for everyone else I would recommend another game from the list. Personally, I have never played the game and must admit it would not appeal to me that much.
Game of the Year 1984: Dampfross
In this game, the players try above all to earn a lot of money as railroad barons.
Sequence of play
In the 1st phase, the players build the rail networks; each player draws their routes according to the number rolled with erasable film pens. Once all the cities are connected, the locomotives travel along the routes; here, whoever arrives first earns a lot of money. The winner is the one who has earned the most.
Learning objective
- Combining
- Logical thinking
- Tactics
Age
- ages 10 and up
Players
- 2-6 players
Buying tip
This game is no longer very common; it is more likely available used or sometimes still on Amazon: Dampfross on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Dampfross”
I have never played this game, but it sounds quite funny and is certainly something for railway enthusiasts.
Game of the Year 1983: Scotland Yard
A brilliant game where you have to find Mister X.
Sequence of play
The detectives and Mister X receive their positions, and now it is time to find out where Mister X is. The only clues are his tickets. Whoever finds Mister X wins!
Learning objective:
- Tactics
- Planning
Age
- Age 10 and up
Players
- 3-6 players
Buying tip
The game is available in toy stores or on Amazon: Scotland Yard on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Scotland Yard”
A brilliant game! Sooo exciting when you are just about to find Mister X. A clear recommendation to buy from me! We still play it too!
Game of the Year 1982: Sagaland
This game requires memory; who can remember where everything is hidden?
Sequence of play
Each player receives a figure that is placed on the game board; the 13 trees are also placed on the board and the search cards are laid out in the castle. The 1st card is revealed; that is the search card. Players take turns rolling the dice and trying to get to the trees. There they may look secretly to see which symbol is hidden there. If the symbol being searched for is found there, then it is off to the castle to get the card.
The winner is the player who has received the most search cards.
Learning objective
- Social behavior
- Memory
Age
- ages 6 and up
Players
- 2-6 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores and on Amazon: Sagaland game on Amazon
My verdict on the game “Sagaland”
A really great game where you can give your memory a proper workout. I think it is sooo beautifully designed and we still really enjoy playing it. A clear recommendation to buy!
Game of the Year 1981: Focus
This 1981 Game of the Year is a strategy game in which the objective is to render your opponent unable to move.
Sequence of play
Everyone gets cones and plays on a Lego-like game board. With funny little cones, you try to capture your opponent.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Combining
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 12 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
Unfortunately, this game can now only be bought second-hand.
My conclusion about the game “Focus”
I have never played this game, so unfortunately I cannot provide a review.
Game of the Year 1980: Rummikub
In this game you have to combine things well; all the numbers you own must be laid out.
Sequence of play
Each player gets 14 tiles, which are drawn blindly; the tiles have numbers from 1 to 13 in 4 different colors. The game also includes 2 jokers. The aim is to lay down all the tiles; this must be done in certain combinations and with at least 3 tiles, i.e. number sequences such as 5,4,3,2 or 3,3,3, etc. The winner is the person who is first able to lay down all their tiles.
Learning objective
- Combining
- Logical thinking
- Tactics
Age
- ages 7 and up
Players
- 2-4 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores and also on Amazon: Rummikub on Amazon
My conclusion about the game “Rummikub”
This game is easy to understand, is guaranteed not to get boring, and can also be bought in a travel format. Sounds very good and is still missing from my collection.
Game of the Year 1979: Hare and Tortoise
The first award-winning Game of the Year is a race between the players. But it is not only the fastest who is the best; here you also have to use tactics.
Sequence of play
Each player gets a supply of carrots, which provide the energy for the race, so no die is needed. But being fast is not the only important thing; proper planning of how many carrots you have is also very important here. The winner is the first person to reach the finish.
Learning objective
- Tactics
- Combining
- Logical thinking
Age
- ages 8 and up
Players
- 2-6 players
Buying tip
This game is available in toy stores, second-hand of course, and also on Amazon: Hare and Tortoise game on Amazon
My conclusion about the game “Hare and Tortoise”
A really lovely game, wonderfully made, and creative in that you can play without dice. A clear recommendation to buy!
Extra buying tip:
Many games can be purchased cheaply at flea markets or online on platforms for used items (e.g. willhaben.at or ebay.at). On Amazon there are also used versions available again and again.
I have also always enjoyed flea markets when parents, or even the children themselves, sold their games and gave lots of tips and information about them. That is how I came across some really great games that we play, or have played, very often and that I did not know before.
Game festivals or game fairs, where you can try out new games, are also great. In Gänserndorf, a game festival takes place regularly.
Game nights are also fun; just ask friends or relatives whether they would like to play, so you can keep trying out or discovering games.
Read also: The best board games for adults
Photos by Sabine, meinhaushalt.at
