Gaming Desiderata

I have had a slight obsession with board games for a bit over a year now, and have found it hard to reign in my desire for the amazing multiplicity of games that come out each and every year. In this post I hope to identify some of the important qualities a game ought to possess in order that I might assess the games I already have, and filter the many I already want.

So, what draws me to a game ?

Aesthetics:

Obviously very subjective, but games that are beautiful in presentation immediately draw my attention and desire. For me at this point in my love for board games, aesthetically speaking, artwork is the primary draw. If a game features lack lustre graphics I am more likely to feel less engaged and uninterested in a purchase. Conversely, awesome graphics pique my interest greatly and provide longevity in my purchasing process.

If a game nonetheless receives poor reviews, beyond a certain breaking point determined by its other attributes, I am likely to lament a beautiful game that is lacking in other key areas and avoid purchasing it.

Elegant Mechanics:

What constitutes elegant mechanics ? Well something that (for me) fits thematically as well as being easy to teach. This does not necessarily mean the simplest mechanics; but an amalgamation of their tactile nature, tough/interesting decision generation, and clarity both as written and as played. This does not mean I will eschew complex games, but for the purpose of game selection within the bounds of those I will be playing with, simple game mechanics that produce interesting situations are better than byzantine rules generating complex situations. Games that allow easy mechanics to produce varied and complex decisions for its players are highly valued.

Often games may have complex rules in order to realise the very nature of a given theme or situation, such as games of simulation. Different designers will choose which level of abstraction is appropriate for the type of game they are creating. For me personally, I don't mind games with a depth of rules, however given the time I have, I prefer something that plays a little easier while achieving a comparable experience.


Theme:

I am interested in many themes, and enjoy abstract games as well, but if a game has a theme, it is nice to be able to suspend disbelief and immerse yourself within the world depicted by the games board, pieces and mechanics.

I have a generally good imagination and will willingly dip into the a games theme, however sparse, so in this sense I am less critical about themes. I am however, impressed with games that incorporate a tight integration of theme, mechanics and aesthetics.

I also feel a desire to obtain a game in various different categories including:

• war [modern, ancient]
• economic
• card game 
• dice-fest
• great euro
• solo
• dungeon crawler

It is useful to generate a list like this one in order to identify suitable games to purchase or trade.

Players:

My current situation necessitates great play solo or with two players. This is obviously a big factor in my decision as to which games to invest in.

Current List:

Here is a list of some games I have enjoyed.

Troyes
Core Worlds
Innovation
Elder Sign
Agricola
Race for the Galaxy

Short List To Buy:

Haggis
CO2
Santiago de Cuba
Alhambra (Anniversary [Gold] Edition)

Would Like:

Biblios - Fits as an excellent two player game, with different mechanics.
Merchants & Marauders - A game I desire for its theme, but does play reasonably with two. Length is an issue.
Aton - Good two player abstract, fast playing time.