When I first got into tabletop games as a hobby there were a lot of terms and terminology which was sometimes confusing of not clear. I thought I’d cover some of these. This one covers Eurogames
What Exactly is a Eurogame?
Eurogames, also known as “German-style” or Euro-Style games, have become a dominant force in modern board gaming. They’re a distinct style that emphasizes player interaction, strategic depth, and elegant design. Unlike many older board games focused on luck and combat, Eurogames prioritize:
- Engine-building: Players gradually construct a powerful engine over the course of the game, optimizing their actions to maximize efficiency.
- Abstract themes: While themes exist, they often take a backseat to the core gameplay mechanics. You might find yourself managing resources, optimizing routes, or drafting cards, with the theme serving as a flavorful backdrop.
- Limited player interaction: Direct conflict is often minimized or absent altogether. Instead, players primarily interact by competing for resources, blocking opponents’ actions, or outmaneuvering each other on the board.
- Point-victory: Most Eurogames are won by accumulating the most victory points through various means, such as completing sets, fulfilling objectives, or controlling areas of the board.
Some Classic Eurogames Examples to Get You Started
There are loads of great eurogames to go at but below are 4 of my absolute favourite games
- Carcassonne: A tile-laying game where players build a medieval landscape, scoring points for completing cities, roads, and monasteries. Carcasonne was one fo the first few games i bought when i found the hobby.
- 7 Wonders: A card drafting game where players build their own ancient civilizations, drafting cards to advance in science, military, and civic development. I’ve really enjoyed the choices every time i play this game. there are tons of possible routes to win at 7 Wonders.
- Ticket to Ride: A train route-building game where players collect train cards to claim railway routes across North America, Europe, or other regions. Ticket to Ride might be the game i have played the most.
- Splendor: Splendor is A card drafting game where players collect gems to purchase development cards, aiming to gain prestige points and become the most influential merchant. It Plays fairly quickly too
Why You Might Love Eurogames
- Strategic Depth: Eurogames offer a rewarding challenge, encouraging thoughtful planning and optimization.
- Replayability: Many Eurogames offer high replayability due to variable setups, different player powers, and diverse strategies.
- Ease of Learning: While some Eurogames have complex rules, many are surprisingly easy to learn and teach.
- Elegant Design: Eurogames often feature beautiful components and streamlined gameplay, making them a joy to play.
Ready to Dive In?
The world of Eurogames is vast and exciting. This guide has just scratched the tiniest bit of the surface. I encourage you to explore further, try some games out, and discover your own favourites. Happy gaming!