The best games presented at the Spiel 2018 game fair in Essen, Germany 2025
Are you looking for a good new game? We have compared all the games presented at the game fair "Spiel 2018" in Essen and listed the top100.
Game fair in the German city of Essen
The International Spieltage SPIEL, often called the Essen Game Fair or Essen 2018 after the city where it is held, is an annual four-day board game fair that is also open to the public. In 2018, the Spiel'18 game fair was held from October 25 to 28 (Thursday through the following Sunday) at the Messe Essen exhibition center in Essen, Germany. Many new games are released at the fair every year, especially (but not exclusively) European-style board games.
SPIEL'18 - the biggest game fair in the world
The first time the fair was held was in 1983 at the Volkshochschule Essen. With 1,150 exhibitors from 50 nations, nearly 1,400 new launches and 190,000 visitors, Spiel'18 was once again the world's largest trade fair for board games in 2018.
Buy board games on site, even from small publishers.
At SPIEL, board games are offered that are hard to find in retail stores - many international and small exhibitors present their products at Spiel18. While the prices for buying games at the fair are usually not much lower than in retail stores, the games are usually available earlier than in regular board game stores, come with promotional materials (usually extra cards or game pieces with a few more game mechanics, but also T-shirts and similar goodies), and it's an opportunity for passionate board game players to meet and chat with game designers, illustrators, and famous game critics.
More info about game fair "Spiel" is available at official game website.
Did we forget a game that was featured at Spiel'18?
If we forgot a game that was featured at Spiel 2018? What were your highlights of Spiel18 that are not on our list? Then write us at tibi+brettspiele@cephea.de.
Spiel-Messe Essen from other years
The Essen Game Fair has been held since 1983, we have listed for you both across all game years and listed separately by year at the bottom of the page.
If you are generally looking for the always best game new releases, then we have another always top current list for you: The Best New Game Releases 2025.
List with the top100 new releases of Spiel'18:
Just One
Just One is a cooperative party game that combines elements of mystery and creativity. Players work together to guess as many words as possible, using unique clues provided by their teammates.
Nominated for 16 awards and won 4.
โญ๏ธ Spiel des Jahres 2019
๐ฅ Deal: 20% cheaper than the best Geizhals deal, likely for a short time only!
More details for Just One- 3 - 7 Players
- 20 - 60 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Just One
Terraforming Mars: Prelude
Terraforming Mars: Prelude offers an expansion to the core game, setting the stage for the terraforming process and enhancing your corporation's journey with new strategic options.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Terraforming Mars: Prelude- 1 - 5 Players
- 90 - 120 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Video reviews for Terraforming Mars: Prelude
Codenames
Codenames is a captivating and popular party game that involves clever wordplay and deduction. Two teams compete, each led by a spymaster who knows the secret identities of 25 agents, represented by cards bearing single-word codenames like "disease," "Germany," or even "carrot." The objective is for each team to be the first to correctly identify all their agents based on clues given by their spymaster, while avoiding the dangerous assassin.
Nominated for 27 awards and won 15.
โญ๏ธ Spiel des Jahres 2016
More details for Codenames- 2 - 8 Players
- 15 Minutes
- 14+ years old
- Immediately playable
Dixit: Anniversary
More details for Dixit: AnniversaryPlayers enjoy a surprising and enchanting game that captures the imagination. The 10th Anniversary expansion features artwork from illustrators of previous expansions, creating a rich tapestry of stories and myths from around the world. Dive into the magic of Dixit and embark on a remarkable journey beyond your imagination.
- 3 - 6 Players
- 60 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Dixit: Anniversary
Welcome To...
Welcome To... is a unique, dice-less roll-and-write game where players take on the role of 1950s American architects, aiming to design and construct the most prosperous suburban neighborhood.
Nominated for 12 awards and won 2.
๐ฅ Deal: 7% cheaper than the best Geizhals deal, likely for a short time only!
More details for Welcome To...- 1 - 100 Players
- 25 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Welcome To...
Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition
Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition is a captivating multiplayer puzzle game that combines strategy and luck to create a unique gaming experience.
Nominated for 2 awards and won 1.
More details for Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition- 1 - 6 Players
- 20 - 30 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Sagrada
Sagrada is a visually striking board game where players draft dice to create beautiful stained glass windows, combining strategy and aesthetics.
Nominated for 13 awards.
More details for Sagrada- 1 - 4 Players
- 30 - 45 Minutes
- 14+ years old
- Easy to learn
ICECOOL2
More details for ICECOOL2ICECOOL2 is both a standalone game and an expansion for ICECOOL. It introduces tasks on 1-point cards, fish movement power on 2-point cards, and an optional tournament scoring. Combining both ICECOOL sets allows for new layouts, a new game mode called "The Race," play for up to eight players, and the ability to create custom layouts.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 6+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for ICECOOL2
Belratti
Players purchase artwork for their museum while trying to align with current trends and uncover genuine pieces created by their team. However, the notorious Belratti aims to trick them with fake paintings in their collection.
Nominated for 2 awards and won 1.
More details for Belratti- 3 - 7 Players
- 25 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Downforce
Downforce is a fast-paced and exhilarating board game that captures the intense world of motor racing. Combining elements of card-driven gameplay, bidding, and betting, it offers a thrilling race experience for 2-6 players.
Nominated for 3 awards.
More details for Downforce- 2 - 6 Players
- 20 - 40 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Chronicles of Crime
Embark on a thrilling cooperative adventure with Chronicles of Crime, a unique blend of crime investigation, board game excitement, and a touch of Virtual Reality. Picture yourself at the heart of criminal investigations, where the seamless integration of an app with physical components creates an immersive experience.
Nominated for 17 awards and won 5.
More details for Chronicles of Crime- 1 - 4 Players
- 60 - 90 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Chronicles of Crime
Railroad Ink: Blazing Red Edition
Railroad Ink: Blazing Red Edition is a dynamic and engaging multiplayer puzzle game where players aim to build the most efficient transportation network. The game revolves around connecting as many exits as possible on individual erasable boards using routes determined by dice rolls. Strategic planning is key, as players must balance the desire to expand their network with the risk of leaving routes incomplete.
Nominated for 1 award and won 1.
More details for Railroad Ink: Blazing Red Edition- 1 - 6 Players
- 20 - 30 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Meeple Circus
Meeple Circus is a vibrant and engaging dexterity board game where players become circus directors, aiming to create the most spectacular show and wow the audience. It's a game where physical skill meets strategic planning, and each action is a performance in itself.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Meeple Circus- 2 - 5 Players
- 45 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Scythe: The Rise of Fenris
Scythe: The Rise of Fenris transports players to a Europe on the brink of a new era, following the ebb and flow of empires after the Great War. As the economy thrives, morale soars, and defenses stand strong, strange reports of soldiers with glowing eyes in the countryside surface, yet they appear distant and seemingly harmless.
Nominated for 2 awards and won 1.
More details for Scythe: The Rise of Fenris- 1 - 5 Players
- 75 - 150 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Chronicles of Crime: Noir
Noir is an expansion written by the talented author Stephane Anquetil, known for his work on Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective scenarios and other interactive narratives. Players collaboratively assume the role of a private detective using unconventional methods, wielding four action cards: Spy, Break-In, Bribe, and Intimidate. Limited resources make every decision critical, adding a unique twist to crime-fighting. This expansion requires the base game and an app to play, which currently supports specific operating systems without needing an internet connection once downloaded.
Nominated for 1 award and won 1.
More details for Chronicles of Crime: Noir- 1 - 4 Players
- 60 - 90 Minutes
- 14+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Chronicles of Crime: Noir
Spyfall 2
Spyfall 2 elevates the intriguing and humorous party game Spyfall to new heights. This game is all about deception, quick thinking, and trying to pinpoint the spy among your friends. Each round, players find themselves at a secret location, except for the spy (or spies, in this version), who has no idea where they are. Through clever questioning, players must figure out who the spy is while the spy tries to blend in and guess the location to win points.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Spyfall 2- 3 - 12 Players
- 15 Minutes
- 13+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Spyfall 2
Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra
Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra is a visually striking and strategic board game designed by Michael Kiesling. It offers a unique twist on tile drafting, focusing on creating beautiful stained glass windows.
Nominated for 4 awards.
More details for Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 - 45 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra
Clank!: The Mummy's Curse
More details for Clank!: The Mummy's CurseUnimaginable riches await in the ancient pyramids, but they are well protected. An immortal mummy guardian casts a horrific curse on those who dare to loot her tomb, while a dragon has also been drawn to the treasure. Escape from the fearsome Croxobek and explore new artifacts in the depths of the pyramid with this expansion.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 - 60 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Easy to learn
Concordia Venus
Concordia Venus is a standalone reimplementation of the classic Concordia, enhancing the peaceful strategy game set in Roman times. It's designed for 2-6 players aged 13 and up, focusing on economic development without the randomness of dice or cards. Strategy and planning are key as players expand their influence across various Roman cities.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Concordia Venus- 2 - 6 Players
- 60 - 120 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Video reviews for Concordia Venus
Champions of Midgard
Champions of Midgard is a Viking-themed board game that blends worker placement mechanics with dice rolling for combat. The game is set in a Norse harbor town besieged by mythical creatures, and players lead Viking clans to defend it and earn glory.
Nominated for 2 awards.
More details for Champions of Midgard- 2 - 4 Players
- 60 - 90 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Twin It!
Players must quickly find pairs of cards on the table in Twin It! To set up, shuffle the double-sided cards and distribute them evenly among players. Players take turns placing cards face up, and when someone spots a match, they claim the pair. The first to collect five pairs wins. The game can also be played in teams or with cards held in hand facing each player.
Nominated for 3 awards and won 1.
More details for Twin It!- 2 - 6 Players
- 5 - 10 Minutes
- 6+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Twin It!
Stone Age: Anniversary
More details for Stone Age: AnniversaryThe Stone Age was indeed tough. Players gather wood, break stones, and wash gold from rivers while trading, expanding their villages, and striving to reach new levels of civilization. They deploy tribal members across the board in three phases, activating regions for resources while ensuring they have enough food to sustain their growing population.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 60 - 90 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Kingdomino: Age of Giants
More details for Kingdomino: Age of GiantsKingdomino: Age of Giants is an expansion for the popular board games Kingdomino and Queendomino, introducing new elements and challenges that enrich the gameplay experience. This expansion integrates seamlessly with either base game, adding components for a fifth player, new domino tiles featuring giants, and innovative game mechanics that add both strategic depth and interactive play.
- 2 - 5 Players
- 15 - 20 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Kingdomino: Age of Giants
Impact: Battle of Elements
More details for Impact: Battle of ElementsPlayers challenge each other to knock their opponents out of the game by rolling their dice effectively and using available special powers. Each starts with five dice, featuring one blank face and elemental symbols on the others. Players must roll into an arena, claiming matching symbols while avoiding being eliminated by blank faces or running out of dice. The game includes a variant where each symbol grants a unique power when matched.
- 2 - 5 Players
- 15 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Architects of the West Kingdom
In Architects of the West Kingdom, set against the backdrop of the late Carolingian Empire around 850 AD, players step into the roles of royal architects. Tasked with constructing important buildings and advancing the construction of the Archbishop's cathedral, this game uniquely combines resource management, worker placement, and moral choices into a rich strategic tableau. Players vie for the King's favor and maintain their noble status in a world where virtue and vice coexist.
Nominated for 17 awards and won 5.
More details for Architects of the West Kingdom- 1 - 5 Players
- 60 - 80 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Video reviews for Architects of the West Kingdom
Heckmeck Deluxe
More details for Heckmeck DeluxeHeckmeck Deluxe includes both the base game and the expansion. Players engage in a fun-filled experience with new challenges and twists. Enjoy the unique gameplay that comes with this deluxe edition.
- 2 - 7 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Reef
Reef is an abstract strategy game where players embody the role of a coral reef, engaging in the growth and expansion of their reef through careful selection and placement of colors and patterns.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Reef- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 - 45 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Easy to learn
Word Slam Midnight
More details for Word Slam MidnightWord Slam Midnight offers the same gameplay as the original but in a compact format. It includes 210 story word cards and 100 answer cards, featuring a total of 600 answers across four difficulty levels.
- 3 - 99 Players
- 45 Minutes
- 18+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Word Slam Midnight
Spirits of the Forest
More details for Spirits of the ForestSpirits of the Forest is a visually stunning and strategically engaging board game that invites players into a mystical world where the veil between the spirit realm and our own is momentarily lifted. In this enchanting setting, players embody seraphs of the elements, competing to collect the spirits of the forest and add them to their ethereal menagerie.
- 1 - 4 Players
- 20 Minutes
- 14+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Spirits of the Forest
Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is a Euro-inspired tactical combat game set in a persistent and evolving world. Players assume the roles of adventurers, each with unique skills and motives, as they explore dungeons, ruins, and engage in cooperative battles against automated monsters.
Nominated for 22 awards and won 10.
More details for Gloomhaven- 1 - 4 Players
- 60 - 120 Minutes
- 14+ years old
- Hard to learn
Video reviews for Gloomhaven
Monster-Bande
Monster-Bande includes 2 sets of 54 identical tokens featuring monster images and two dice that display different monster traits. Teams of two or more players take turns rolling the dice, drawing a token, and describing the monster without using specific traits named on the dice. The team identifies the matching monster from the table, aiming to collect the most tokens by the end of the round.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Monster-Bande- 2 - 8 Players
- 25 Minutes
- 7+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Monster-Bande
Soviet Kitchen Unleashed
More details for Soviet Kitchen UnleashedThe Second World War is coming to an end in the Soviet Union. Players work as a team of field cooks, using scarce ingredients to create meals from whatever is found at the front, even if it looks inedible. The goal is to mix colors to match orders while avoiding toxic ingredients that could harm guests.
- 1 - 6 Players
- 25 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Immediately playable
Shifty Eyed Spies
More details for Shifty Eyed SpiesEngage in a sneaky competition of covert communication. Signal with a wink that you have a delivery for another spy, and wait for their eye shift to indicate the meeting point. Be discreet; if someone intercepts you, the mission is blown!
- 4 - 8 Players
- 20 Minutes
- 9+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Shifty Eyed Spies
Punto
Players strive to form a row of four or five cards while facing placement restrictions. The game features four decks, each containing 18 cards with values from 1 to 9. Players create a 6x6 grid, placing cards either next to existing ones or on top of them, as long as the top card has a higher point value. The first to achieve a row of four or five cards in their color wins the round and removes the highest card to start a new round. The player who wins two rounds first takes the game. In a two-player game, players combine their stacks but can only form rows of one color. In a three-player game, each player randomly receives six cards of an unused color to use as blockers.
Nominated for 1 award and won 1.
More details for Punto- 2 - 4 Players
- 20 Minutes
- 7+ years old
- Immediately playable
Fool!
More details for Fool!Foppen is a classic trick-taking game with a twist. Players attempt to get rid of all their cards quickly by playing one card in each trick. If you play the lowest card in a trick, you are deceived and must pass in the next trick, preventing you from shedding a card. The new edition accommodates 4 to 8 players, making it more enjoyable for larger groups.
- 4 - 8 Players
- 15 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Fool!
Between Two Castles of Mad King Ludwig
More details for Between Two Castles of Mad King LudwigBetween Two Castles of Mad King Ludwig is a distinctive tile-drafting game where players take on the role of master builders, collaboratively designing grand castles for the whimsical and demanding King Ludwig. This game is a unique collaboration between Stonemaier Games and Bezier Games, blending elements of creativity, strategy, and cooperation.
- 2 - 7 Players
- 45 - 60 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Word Slam Family
Word Slam Family features the same gameplay as the original version in a compact format. It includes 100 word cards and 100 answer cards divided into seven categories, providing a total of 600 response terms. Two teams compete simultaneously, with players using only the explanation cards to help their teammates guess a hidden word or phrase without speaking or acting. An app replaces the dice and timer, and the game's two halves act as screens for answering cards. Word Slam Family can be played as an expansion or as a standalone game.
Nominated for 1 award and won 1.
More details for Word Slam Family- 3 - 99 Players
- 45 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Word Slam Family
Carpe Diem
In Carpe Diem, players step into the roles of wealthy patricians in ancient Rome, striving to build prosperous city districts and accumulate prestigious points. Designed by the accomplished game designer Stefan Feld, this board game offers a unique and engaging gaming experience.
Nominated for 2 awards.
โญ๏ธ Nominated for Kennerspiel des Jahres 2019
More details for Carpe Diem- 2 - 4 Players
- 45 - 75 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Claim 2
More details for Claim 2Claim 2 is a standalone expansion with five new factions that can be played alone or in combination with the original game.
- 2 Players
- 25 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Shadows: Amsterdam
Amsterdam, present day. A crime has been committed, but police investigations lead nowhere. An anonymous client has contacted your detective agency to investigate, and your rivals are also on the case, so time is of the essence.
Nominated for 2 awards.
More details for Shadows: Amsterdam- 2 - 8 Players
- 20 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Immediately playable
Knapp Daneben!
More details for Knapp Daneben!Players collect numbers that are close to their existing totals without being identical. Each player has a scoring sheet and rolls five colored dice in a round. They combine numbers from their dice, recording the sums on their scoring sheets while following specific rules to earn points, with the game concluding after 25 rounds. The player with the most points at the end wins.
- 1 - 5 Players
- 20 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Knapp Daneben!
Dale of Merchants
More details for Dale of MerchantsDale of Merchants is set in an era of discovery and thriving trade, focusing on a highly anticipated trading competition in the bustling town of Dale. Players step into the shoes of animalfolk merchants, each aspiring to win this prestigious contest and gain entry into the extraordinary guild of the greatest merchants.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Dale of Merchants
Chronicles of Crime: Welcome to Redview
More details for Chronicles of Crime: Welcome to RedviewStrange things are happening in the small town of Redview, where animals have been mysteriously disappearing for weeks. When Wookie, the sheriff's dog, goes missing, six friends band together to find him. This family-friendly game takes place in a 1980s Maine town, where players use their strength, agility, and wits to solve the mystery without adult help.
- 1 - 4 Players
- 30 - 90 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Chronicles of Crime: Welcome to Redview
Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game immerses players in the role of true detectives, blending traditional board game elements with modern technology and storytelling. This game offers a unique and interactive experience, as players solve interconnected cases using both physical game components and an online database.
Nominated for 14 awards and won 4.
โญ๏ธ Nominated for Kennerspiel des Jahres 2019
More details for Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game- 1 - 5 Players
- 120 - 180 Minutes
- 16+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Video reviews for Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
Curli Kuller
Farmer Bertram has planted seedlings in his field and set up a scarecrow to protect his harvest. However, he should have considered the snails, eager for a tasty meal. Players roll their snails down a ramp to knock over plants in a scarecrow-guarded garden, trying to collect as many of their colored plants as possible. The first player to collect eight plants wins the game.
Nominated for 2 awards.
โญ๏ธ Nominated for Kinderspiel des Jahres 2009
โญ๏ธ Nominated for Kinderspiel des Jahres 2009
More details for Curli Kuller- 2 - 4 Players
- 20 Minutes
- 5+ years old
- Immediately playable
Treasure Island
Treasure Island is a thrilling game of bluffing and adventure where players are immersed in a high-stakes treasure hunt. One player takes on the role of Long John Silver, using cunning and misdirection to lead the others astray in their quest to find his hidden treasure. The game builds to an exciting climax as Long John makes his daring escape to reclaim his treasure.
Nominated for 3 awards.
More details for Treasure Island- 2 - 5 Players
- 45 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Treasure Island
7 Wonders: Armada
7 Wonders: Armada adds a new "Navy" board for each player, in addition to their wonder board. This expansion introduces more red, green, yellow, and blue cards into the game, allowing players to advance their ships in exchange for certain costs. Advancing on the yellow and blue tracks provides coins and victory points, while moving on the green track allows players to discover islands, enhancing their fleet and resources.
Nominated for 2 awards and won 1.
More details for 7 Wonders: Armada- 3 - 7 Players
- 40 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Video reviews for 7 Wonders: Armada
Planet
Planet is a unique, hands-on board game where players get the chance to create their own planet. Each player starts with a blank planet core and strategically places terrain tiles โ mountains, ice, forests, deserts โ to cultivate environments that can support life. The goal is to cleverly arrange these habitats to attract various animal species and create the most thriving planet.
Nominated for 4 awards and won 2.
More details for Planet- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 - 45 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Planet
Explorers of the North Sea
More details for Explorers of the North SeaExplorers of the North Sea plunges players into the Viking Age's waning days, tasking them as sea captains on a quest to discover and claim new lands. The goal is to transport crews, capture livestock, and build outposts across newly found islands. With a longship and a Viking crew at your disposal, the seas are ripe for exploration and conquest.
- 1 - 4 Players
- 45 - 60 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Easy to learn
Cool Runnings
Players create ice characters to compete in a race to the finish line. The winner is either the first to cross the finish line or the last player with an ice figure remaining, while others have melted. Throughout the game, players can attack each other using salt, water, or other methods to raise the temperature of opponentsโ characters, but if the defending player counters the attack with the same card, the attack will backfire.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Cool Runnings- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Dale of Merchants 2
More details for Dale of Merchants 2The world has become smaller as civilizations across continents establish independent free trade cities to facilitate commerce. One such city, Yengzuh, is seeking a new ruler and trade master through a competition that tests participants' trading skills and adaptability to unexpected situations. Players assume the roles of merchants, learning new techniques, trading goods, and managing inventories to complete their impressive merchant stands and earn access to the prestigious guild.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Dale of Merchants 2
Space Escape
More details for Space EscapePlayers take on the role of mole rats in a research station overrun by snakes. They must collect their equipment and escape before getting bitten or running out of time. Players follow instructions on cards, which may involve moving themselves or their teammates, relocating snakes, or adding new ones to the board. Being bitten sends players back to their starting point, and two bites result in death. The game also includes a card mechanic that increases the challenge after certain successes.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 20 Minutes
- 7+ years old
- Immediately playable
Mythos Tales
More details for Mythos TalesWelcome to H.P. Lovecraft's Arkham in the 1920s. Players will encounter many puzzles in this storytelling game filled with Lovecraftian horror. Using a newspaper, a list of allies, the directory of Arkham residents, and a map, you must follow clues, identify suspects, uncover secrets, and answer questions at the end of each scenario.
- 1 - 10 Players
- 60 - 120 Minutes
- 13+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Mythos Tales
Gingerbread House
A witch lived alone in her house deep in the forest, which she made entirely of gingerbread. However, rude fairy tale characters would eat away at her walls and windows. To solve her problem, she observed what types of gingerbread these greedy intruders preferred and devised a plan to get rid of them.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Gingerbread House- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Gingerbread House
The Color Monster
Players work together to help a monster understand its emotions. They take turns rolling a die to move the monster on the board. When the monster lands on a space with an emotion token, the player picks it up and tries to find the corresponding glass from the hidden options. To keep a token, players must share a memory related to that emotion. The game can end in defeat if the monster gets too confused, but they win by successfully sorting all the emotions into the correct glasses.
Nominated for 2 awards.
๐ฅ Deal: 12% cheaper than the best Geizhals deal, likely for a short time only!
More details for The Color Monster- 2 - 5 Players
- 25 Minutes
- 3+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for The Color Monster
Patchwork Express
Players aim to build the most aesthetically pleasing and high-scoring quilt on a personal 7x7 board. During the game, players can buy patches or pass, with each patch costing buttons and time, while strategically placing them on their boards. As the game progresses, darker patches become available, offering smaller pieces that help fill gaps in players' quilts.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Patchwork Express- 2 Players
- 10 Minutes
- 6+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Patchwork Express
Near and Far
Emphasizing storytelling and exploration, Near and Far is a captivating board game where up to four players embark on a quest for the fabled Last Ruin, a city rumored to house an artifact with the power to fulfill the heart's deepest desires. Each player assumes the role of a wanderer with personal motivations, from reuniting with lost family to seeking redemption.
Nominated for 6 awards.
More details for Near and Far- 2 - 4 Players
- 90 - 120 Minutes
- 13+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Video reviews for Near and Far
Jump Drive
Jump Drive propels players into the vast expanse of the Race for the Galaxy universe through a swift and engaging card game. In this game of galactic expansion, players harness the power of the Jump Drive to explore new worlds, develop advanced technologies, and establish a dominant space empire. Players aim to find potent card combinations that propel their civilizations to prosperity and victory. As a standalone game, Jump Drive offers a more streamlined and quicker gameplay experience compared to its predecessor, Race for the Galaxy, making it accessible to newcomers while still challenging seasoned players with its strategic depth.
Nominated for 3 awards.
More details for Jump Drive- 2 - 4 Players
- 10 - 30 Minutes
- 13+ years old
- Easy to learn
Spring Meadow
More details for Spring MeadowThe first delicate blooms signal the end of a harsh winter. As the sun shines longer each day, snow retreats, and the meadows awaken, making it the perfect time for a hike. Players must carefully choose their route, watch for marmot burrows, and pack enough snacks, as earning a coveted edelweiss track pin becomes challenging when sitting hungry in the snow.
- 1 - 4 Players
- 15 - 60 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Spring Meadow
Imhotep: The Duel
Imhotep: The Duel transports players back to the rich historical setting of ancient Egypt, where they engage in a strategic contest as two of Egyptโs most renowned figures, Nefertiti and Akhenaten. This two-player game is a standalone sequel to the acclaimed board game Imhotep, known for its deep strategy and engaging gameplay. Imhotep: The Duel focuses on the competitive dynamics between two players, offering a nuanced and tightly contested battle of wits and strategy.
Nominated for 2 awards.
More details for Imhotep: The Duel- 2 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Imhotep: The Duel
Trans Europa & Trans Amerika
More details for Trans Europa & Trans AmerikaTwo simple railway games are included, using the same rules but played on different maps, leading to varied player experiences. Players start each round with a secret set of five cities to connect via rail. They place tracks that must connect to their starting station or build upon existing networks, aiming to connect all their cities first to score points and win the game. Special cards add variety by modifying rules for all players during a round.
- 2 - 6 Players
- 25 - 40 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
A Feast for Odin: The Norwegians
The Norwegians expansion for A Feast for Odin significantly enriches the base game with an array of new content and strategic possibilities, emphasizing the historical Viking theme and offering players fresh challenges and pathways to victory.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for A Feast for Odin: The Norwegians- 1 - 4 Players
- 30 - 120 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Hard to learn
Video reviews for A Feast for Odin: The Norwegians
Speed Cupsโถ
More details for Speed CupsโถPlayers receive five colorful cups and aim to complete the tasks shown on the cards as quickly as possible. Speed and keen observation are essential, as the cards indicate whether the cups should be stacked or placed side by side. The fastest player to ring the bell after correctly arranging the cups will win.
- 2 - 6 Players
- 6+ years old
- Immediately playable
Isle of Skye: Druids
More details for Isle of Skye: DruidsWithout powerful allies, winning the battle for dominance over the island is impossible. Support from the spiritual leaders can be a decisive factor. Gain the druids to your cause and use the power of their mystical sacred sites to your advantage!
- 2 - 5 Players
- 60 - 75 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Isle of Skye: Druids
Blรถde Kuh
More details for Blรถde KuhPlayers start with a sheet of nine cards, each showing one of four different farm animals. On their turn, they can either play a card to trigger an effect based on the animal type or play two identical cards, causing the next player to receive a negative card. The round ends when a player discards their last card, and the players with the most remaining hand cards incur penalty points, which are added to the points from their negative cards. The player with the least points after three rounds wins.
- 3 - 6 Players
- 15 - 25 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Naga Raja
Twin stamps of two forgotten deities have been discovered in India, leading players on a treasure hunt filled with competition and challenges. Each player navigates their own temple, trying to reveal sacred and cursed relics while avoiding the consequences of uncovering all three cursed relics of the evil god Garuda. Strategy is essential as players use cards to win new room tiles and activate effects, all while creating a constantly changing labyrinth to outsmart their opponent.
Nominated for 2 awards.
More details for Naga Raja- 2 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 9+ years old
- Easy to learn
Haste Worte? Das Wรผrfelspiel
More details for Haste Worte? Das WรผrfelspielPlayers engage in a dice game that transforms a classic communication game. The dice determine the category for players to find the correct words, but caution is necessary! Competing players can challenge your chosen terms, so careful thinking and attention to others are essential to score points and win.
- 2 - 6 Players
- 30 - 45 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Immediately playable
Escape Room: The Game โ Secret Agent
More details for Escape Room: The Game โ Secret Agent"Secret Agent" is an expansion that immerses players in the new nation of Zekestan, which poses a significant threat to the world with its ominous display of power and mysterious secret weapon. Players must work with a team of specialists to find a way to stop the new president, whose rise to power hints at sinister intentions. If caught, all ties to your government will be denied, leaving you alone to face the dire consequences for traitors in Zekestan.
- 3 - 5 Players
- 60 Minutes
- 16+ years old
- Immediately playable
Exit: The Game โ The Haunted Roller Coaster
More details for Exit: The Game โ The Haunted Roller CoasterFeel like taking a ride on the haunted roller coaster at the fair? What if that ride suddenly stops and you find yourself trapped? Work together with your fellow passengers to escape this eerie place as quickly as possible. This version of Exit is particularly suitable for newcomers to escape room puzzles. Like other titles in the series, it includes components that can be folded, written on, or torn, making it a one-time play experience.
- 1 - 4 Players
- 45 - 90 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Brain Connect
More details for Brain ConnectGet your brain back on track! In Brain Connect, players must quickly arrange and connect their thoughts, then execute the correct action first to win. These sliding puzzles feature sixteen different start and stop points, making each challenge of creating a clear thought process a fresh experience.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 20 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
The North Sea Runesaga
An epic competition for 2-4 players unfolds as they strive to collect the most rune stones and earn the coveted title of chief. Players progress through each chapter of the sagaโShipbuilders, Plunderers, and Explorersโwhere they can gather unique rune stones that offer advantages in subsequent chapters. The player with the most rune stones after all three chapters is declared the overall winner and named chief.
๐ฅ Deal: 9% cheaper than the best Geizhals deal, likely for a short time only!
More details for The North Sea Runesaga- 2 - 4 Players
- 180 - 240 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Easy to learn
Carcassonne: Safari
Carcassonne: Safari ventures into the wild landscapes of the African savannah, offering a standalone experience within the "Carcassonne Around the World" series. This edition invites players on a safari adventure, where the goal is to spot as many animals as possible. Animals can be found hiding in the bush, roaming the savannah, or gathering near watering holes. The game maintains the essence of Carcassonne's tile-placement and meeple-deployment mechanics, while introducing new elements tailored to the safari theme.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Carcassonne: Safari- 2 - 5 Players
- 35 Minutes
- 7+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Carcassonne: Safari
A Tale of Pirates
More details for A Tale of PiratesPut on your captain's hat and navigate the 3D pirate ship in this unique cooperative real-time game. Players aim to be crowned Admiral of the Black by completing various dangerous scenarios quickly. An innovative feature allows players to use their own 30-second sand timer as their character, placing it on the ship to perform actions while managing time effectively.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Easy to learn
Farben
More details for FarbenLove is... green? In this vibrant storytelling game, each color tells a story. Players associate a color with a word and narrate their connection, sharing personal experiences. After storytelling, players recall the colors linked to the words without looking, earning points for their memory and others' recollections. The winner is the player with the best memory of which colors were assigned to specific words.
- 3 - 5 Players
- 45 - 75 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Farben
Lighthouse Run
Players control a fleet of five sailboats that navigate from lighthouse to lighthouse along the coast. With only three workers to man six lighthouses and a storm approaching, strategic decisions become crucial. Each player uses a stack of fourteen identical cards to determine boat movements and which lighthouses are illuminated, with the game ending once the storm reaches the harbor after twelve rounds. Points are awarded based on how far boats travel before the storm catches them, and the player with the highest score wins.
๐ฅ Deal: 20% cheaper than the best Geizhals deal, likely for a short time only!
More details for Lighthouse Run- 2 - 4 Players
- 20 - 25 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Lighthouse Run
Micropolis
More details for MicropolisCollect your ants in Micropolis and send them through the anthill to dance to your tune. Players start with a central location surrounded by ten stones, connected by tunnels, and take turns drawing game pieces for ten rounds, with the largest army going first. Each piece has specific roles, such as queens that can enhance their placement, and warriors that can attack the first player, while points are scored based on the number of ants and additional bonuses for having the largest army.
- 2 - 6 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Micropolis
Spirit Island
Welcome to the captivating world of Spirit Island, where the distant echoes of magic still hold sway. In this immersive cooperative board game, players are entrusted with the crucial task of defending their island paradise from the relentless onslaught of colonizing Invaders. The spirits of the land, each possessing unique elemental powers, unite to thwart the advance of those who seek to conquer and despoil. As the colonial empires expand, the islanders and the very earth itself rise in defense. Harness the power of the spirits, strategize with your fellow players, and fight back against the encroaching Invaders to protect the island's mystical heart.
Nominated for 15 awards and won 2.
More details for Spirit Island- 1 - 4 Players
- 90 - 120 Minutes
- 13+ years old
- Hard to learn
Talisman: Legendary Tales
More details for Talisman: Legendary TalesCenturies ago, legendary smiths forged the "Crown of Command," a magical artifact of immense power that grants its wearer control over the land. A powerful wizard sealed it away to prevent evil forces from taking it, only allowing those with the legendary Talismans to access the portal leading to the crown.
- 1 - 6 Players
- 20 - 40 Minutes
- 14+ years old
- Immediately playable
Hostage Negotiator
Hostage Negotiator is a gripping solo board game where you take on the role of a law enforcement agent tasked with negotiating the release of hostages from a dangerous hostage-taker. The game immerses you in high-stakes crisis negotiation, demanding strategic thinking and decision-making under pressure.
Nominated for 3 awards and won 1.
More details for Hostage Negotiator- 1 Players
- 20 Minutes
- 13+ years old
- Easy to learn
Piepmatz
Players cleverly play bird cards from their hand to collect seeds and birds at the birdbath. Seeds and paired bird sets in their collection score points, while individual birds only score if they have the majority of their species. The game consists of three phases: playing a card, resolving effects, and drawing new cards, continuing until a player must draw from an empty deck, at which point all players tally their points for seeds, pairs, and species majorities to determine the winner.
Nominated for 2 awards.
๐ฅ Deal: 35% cheaper than the best Geizhals deal, likely for a short time only!
More details for Piepmatz- 2 - 4 Players
- 20 - 40 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Easy to learn
Doodle Rush
More details for Doodle RushDoodle Rush is a fast-paced party game that keeps everyone on their toes. Each player receives two cards with a total of six words to draw over six one-minute rounds, alternating between drawing and guessing. Players must act quickly and attentively, as the player with the most points at the end wins by having their drawings guessed and guessing others' drawings correctly.
- 3 - 6 Players
- 10 - 15 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Immediately playable
X-Code
More details for X-CodePlayers work simultaneously to collaboratively crack an encrypted code against the clock. The game board consists of a number grid where the goal is to place three matching cards on each space, including # and *. Players must trade cards with their neighbors, which is essential for success, and use jokers as substitutes for missing cards. Once a player has three matching cards, they can place them to decode or gain extra time, and by discarding time cards, they can flip the hourglass for additional seconds. If the code is successfully cracked, players advance to the next level together.
- 2 - 8 Players
- 15 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for X-Code
Root
Root is an engaging board game of adventure and strategy designed for 2 to 4 players (expandable to 1 to 6 with the 'Riverfolk' expansion). Set in a vast wilderness, the game offers a unique experience where each player embodies a different faction with its own distinctive abilities and victory conditions. With beautifully designed multi-use cards, Root brings a rich asymmetrical gameplay to the table.
Nominated for 24 awards and won 14.
More details for Root- 2 - 4 Players
- 60 - 90 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Hard to learn
Brains Family: Burgen & Drachen
More details for Brains Family: Burgen & DrachenPlayers compete to battle powerful dragons and reach fairy-tale castles in a race against time. Each round begins with an adventure card revealing dragon and castle locations. Players then aim to place their tiles on their boards to travel to all the castles, with the first to find the correct solution winning the round. After winning, players must continue to face the dragon and visit all castles in subsequent rounds. The first to win three rounds claims victory.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 15 - 30 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Qwantum
More details for QwantumPlayers enter numbers into their personal grid, ensuring that they continuously increase within a specific color. However, there comes a point when these sums must decrease again.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 15 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Qwantum
Fast Forward: FORTUNE
More details for Fast Forward: FORTUNERoles rotate and tension rises as players aim for a new high score. The goal is to score more points than your opponents, but in Fatal, high numbers alone won't secure victoryโbonus points are essential.
- 3 - 5 Players
- 15 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Immediately playable
Video reviews for Fast Forward: FORTUNE
Smash Up: Oops, You Did It Again
More details for Smash Up: Oops, You Did It AgainSmash Up: Adventurous Legends is a standalone game for two players that can also serve as an expansion for other Smash Up titles. The four factions included in this set are Vikings, Cowboys, Samurai, and Egyptians.
- 2 Players
- 45 Minutes
- 14+ years old
- Easy to learn
Great Western Trail: Rails to the North
Great Western Trail: Rails to the North expands the base game by introducing a challenging new railway system. Players extend their cow herding ventures into the northeastern United States, aiming for lucrative destinations such as Chicago, Detroit, and New York City. This expansion not only adds complexity with its new rail routes but also enriches gameplay with additional strategic elements.
Nominated for 2 awards and won 1.
More details for Great Western Trail: Rails to the North- 2 - 4 Players
- 75 - 150 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Hard to learn
Video reviews for Great Western Trail: Rails to the North
Ex Libris
Ex Libris is a strategic board game that immerses players in the role of book collectors in a bustling gnomish village, all vying for the coveted position of Grand Librarian. This game combines elements of resource management, worker placement, and collection building, set in a whimsical fantasy world where players compete to create the most impressive personal library.
Nominated for 3 awards and won 2.
More details for Ex Libris- 1 - 4 Players
- 45 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Medium difficulty
Video reviews for Ex Libris
BiberClan
More details for BiberClanEach player has their own beaver lodge. Throughout the game, players aim to collect cards with high values, while also considering lower-value cards that can earn bonus points if collected in multiples. Cards can be swapped quickly, adding a layer of strategy, and once a player has five cards, all others get one last turn before points are tallied to find the "Beaver Boss."
- 2 - 6 Players
- 7+ years old
- Immediately playable
Coimbra
Coimbra is a historically themed board game set in the vibrant era of the 15th and 16th centuries in Portugal. It combines strategic planning, resource management, and an innovative dice mechanism, making it a compelling choice for gamers who enjoy a blend of history and strategy.
Nominated for 9 awards.
More details for Coimbra- 2 - 4 Players
- 60 - 90 Minutes
- 14+ years old
- Medium difficulty
The Cousins' War
The Wars of the Roses were fought in 15th century England for three decades between the Houses of York and Lancaster, two branches of the royal family. Each player represents one of the houses, engaging in battles and gaining influence to control England.
Nominated for 2 awards.
More details for The Cousins' War- 2 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Easy to learn
Iron Curtain
More details for Iron CurtainImagine experiencing the battles and dilemmas of the Cold War through a game that consists of just 18 cards. Players can choose to represent the USA or the Soviet Union in a strategic struggle for dominance, making quick decisions in about 20 minutes. The game features a card-based world map that changes with each play, adding to the tension as players navigate their options and outmaneuver their opponents.
- 2 Players
- 20 - 30 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Blocky Mountains
Blocky Mountains is a dexterity game for 2-7 players, featuring cooperative and competitive modes, as well as solo play. Players construct 3D landscapes using large wooden blocks and then navigate a wooden character known as "the Trapper" through various obstacle courses based on randomly drawn challenge cards. Challenges range in difficulty, and players must complete them to advance toward the mountain summit while managing different tasks, including moving supplies and responding to setbacks.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Blocky Mountains- 1 - 7 Players
- 30 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Easy to learn
Magic Maze Kids
The king has accidentally been turned into a frog! Gather your friends, navigate through the forest, and find the right ingredients to brew a potion that will heal him. This cooperative game adapts the original mechanics of Magic Maze for younger players, with everyone controlling the heroes but only in one direction. The rules are gradually introduced through tutorials, and the game evolves through multiple levels as children play.
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Magic Maze Kids- 2 - 4 Players
- 15 - 25 Minutes
- 5+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Magic Maze Kids
Honga
Excitement in a prehistoric era! The clan of saber-toothed tigers is looking for a new leader. Players must prove their worth by gathering supplies, exploring dark forests, honoring ancient nature gods, attracting mammoths, and trading with other clans, all while keeping an eye on Honga, the local saber-toothed tiger, who will steal food if ignored.
Nominated for 2 awards and won 1.
More details for Honga- 2 - 5 Players
- 45 Minutes
- 8+ years old
- Easy to learn
Frantic
More details for FranticPlayers start with seven cards and try to get rid of them as quickly as possible. When a player discards all their cards, the remaining players count the points in their hands, and the player with the lowest score wins if someone reaches the agreed maximum score.
- 2 - 8 Players
- 5 - 45 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Easy to learn
Monolith Arena
Engage in battle against opponents on a hexagonal board. Prepare your armies and surprise your enemy with a selection of special abilities!
Nominated for 1 award.
More details for Monolith Arena- 2 - 4 Players
- 30 - 45 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
Video reviews for Monolith Arena
Kakerlacula
More details for KakerlaculaIn Kakerlacula, a vampire cockroach scurries through the hallways of a haunted castle. Children work together to drive it away by turning on the lights in each room, but encountering the cockroach costs them a piece of their precious garlic. If they can launch the vampire cockroach to the moon, fresh garlic will be catapulted to them, but they must illuminate the castle before their supply runs out.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 15 Minutes
- 6+ years old
- Immediately playable
Colt Express: Bandits โ Tuco
More details for Colt Express: Bandits โ TucoIn the Tuco expansion, Tuco has unresolved issues with the Marshal, his former friend. His "Fire and Shot" ability can affect various targets, including Belle. Players can swap positions with the Marshal or lead him away, earning rewards when they bring him to Tuco's location. Every Colt Express: Bandits expansion allows players to compete against the game itself, creating unique stories and objectives with each playthrough.
- 2 - 5 Players
- 30 - 60 Minutes
- 10+ years old
- Easy to learn
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