The Appeal of Simple Games

I adore board games. Particularly over the past few years, a multi-hour strategy game with my roommates has often been my idea of a great time. Nevertheless, I only really played more simple games recently. There have been several criteria pushing me in this direction. If we want to play something on the road, it has to suit two players. There must be a low table footprint, and the game should be straightforward, but not boring.

For me, there will still be a time and place for the complicated games. But I’ve realised this year that less sometimes is more when it comes to game design. You might have the greatest strategy game in the world in front of you, but that’s no good if you never start because your group is overwhelmed by page five of the rule book.

Three examples we’ve enjoyed together during the trip: Gin Rummy; Bananagrams; and, Azul. All perfect for two players, with little space consumption, and just enough strategy to keep you coming back. For us, these kinds of games have been the sweet spot. They challenge your thinking during each five-minute round, without overwhelming it. You can play in restaurants, on trains, or atop plane tray-tables.

Ultimately, I’ve realised that the game which gets played is a good game. I know for certain there are more exciting, more stimulating, and more thoughtful games than those we’ve returned to this year, but that doesn’t inherently make them better. I like simple games. They fill such a nice, specific role whilst your travelling, even more so when you’re with the same person for a long time.