Splendor is a game of chip-collecting and card development. Players are merchants of the Renaissance trying to buy gem mines, means of transportation, shops—all in order to acquire the most prestige points. If you're wealthy enough, you might even receive a visit from a noble at some point, which of course will further increase your prestige.
On your turn, you may (1) collect chips (gems), or (2) buy and build a card, or (3) reserve one card. If you collect chips, you take either three different kinds of chips or two chips of the same kind. If you buy a card, you pay its price in chips and add it to your playing area. To reserve a card—in order to make sure you get it, or, why not, your opponents don't get it—you place it in front of you face down for later building; this costs you a round, but you also get gold in the form of a joker chip, which you can use as any gem.
All of the cards you buy increase your wealth as they give you a permanent gem bonus for later buys; some of the cards also give you prestige points. In order to win the game, you must reach 15 prestige points before your opponents do.
- Elegant, unobtrusive engine-building loop.
- Low barrier to entry and quick plays make it gateway-friendly.
- Zero-sum interaction is minimal; interaction is mostly blocking/reserving.
- Card distribution and luck often determine who accelerates first.
- Learning curve flattens quickly; depth is not as rich as appearance suggests.
- Engine-building economy with gem tokens and development cards
- Renaissance gem trade and development of a merchant engine
- Abstract engine growth rather than direct confrontation
- Catan
- Azul
- Wingspan
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Cascading Purchases — Purchasing cards unlocks future discounts or bonuses.
- Delayed Purchase — Purchasing cards unlocks future discounts or bonuses.
- engine building — Acquire cards that reduce future costs and accelerate your engine.
- Resource Gating — Gems function as currency to purchase development cards.
- Resource management — Gems function as currency to purchase development cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- BGG's rating system struggles with distinguishing between this is an excellent party game and this offers repeated strategic depth.
- Accessibility isn't the same as complexity. Beautiful components aren't the same as mechanical richness.
- Memorable first plays aren't the same as longevity. These games are genuinely excellent gateways.
- If you're brand new to modern board gaming, many of these are fantastic entry points. They teach mechanics painlessly and generate fun.
References (from this video)
- elegant and accessible
- tight engine with satisfying decisions
- interaction is limited; often feels like solo play next to others
- merchant prosperity and noble patronage
- renaissance/gem-trade economy
- elegant, economic engine with clear progression
- Dominion
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Compound Scoring — nobles visit for extra points when requirements are met
- engine building — build a discount engine that persists across turns
- engine-building — build a discount engine that persists across turns
- noble scoring — nobles visit for extra points when requirements are met
- reserve and gold tokens — reserve cards and use gold (wild) to finance purchases
- set collection — collect gem tokens to buy development cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Multiplayer solitaire shouldn't automatically be a red flag.
- The real takeaway is that multiplayer solitaire isn't a problem if the mood matches.
- You're mostly in your own 15 card puzzle, glancing up occasionally when someone takes a meadow card or a limited event.
- The bird theme and real species facts pull in players who might never touch a typical sci-fi or fantasy hero.
- It's the best of multiplayer solitaire.
References (from this video)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- set-collection and resource optimization — players collectgem tokens to purchase development cards with increasing prestige.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Trust us.
- Verify everything, trust nothing.
- The biggest lie board game companies tell might be the simplest. Trust us.
- You're buying version 1.0 that needs patches, but there's no disclaimer saying software may require updates.
- The app has potential for gamebreaking bugs, especially in stretch goal missions.
References (from this video)
- amazing introductory game for newcomers
- nostalgic and enduring appeal
- not played as often as before
- Array
- Renaissance gem trades
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- I love Chronicles of Crime: 1400
- I love Splendor it's an amazing game it's a great introductory game to people who don't play as much board games
- Treasure Island I'm definitely keeping Treasure Island
- Sushi go we're keeping Sushi go Love Sushi go great game
- Point salad I love Point salad so fun so quick I love that everything keeps changing you can set your own goals for the game it's just very fun very cute love the artwork
- Smash Up this game also doesn't get played at all I've played it maybe two times a long long time ago
- Sleeping Gods I mean never getting rid of this what a beautiful beautiful game and just so exciting and yeah very heavy
References (from this video)
- Amazing components and insert
- Premium gem pieces and metal minis
- Balanced two-player interaction
- More interactive than base Splendor
- Good value and replayability
- Can feel dry for some players
- Increased complexity; not a gateway game anymore
- Managing two boards may overwhelm new players
- Array
- Renaissance Europe
- informational
- Splendor
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Delayed Purchase — Owning cards of a color reduces the cost of future buys, increasing tempo.
- Discount/Tempo — Owning cards of a color reduces the cost of future buys, increasing tempo.
- Gold as Wild — Gold tokens act as wilds to substitute any gem color.
- Nobles — Noble tiles provide points and onetime bonuses when specific conditions are met.
- Reserve — Reserve a card to buy later, earning a gold/wild token.
- Resource management — Players collect gem tokens to purchase cards and gain points.
- set collection — Acquire cards to build a strategic engine and discounts over time.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Masterpiece it's a masterpiece
- a breath of fresh air with different strategies to use
- crunchier than normal Splendor
- it's not really a gateway game anymore
- this is actually crunchier than normal Splendor
References (from this video)
- engaging, fast-paced gameplay
- clear engine-building progression
- visually appealing components
- can be mentally exhausting to track many pieces
- slightly more complex than typical light games
- wealth accumulation through gem-based engine-building
- Renaissance-era gem trading
- economic engine with visible progression
- Coup
- Last Word
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- card drafting — Choice of which cards to buy each turn to optimize future purchases.
- card drafting / purchase order — Choice of which cards to buy each turn to optimize future purchases.
- scoring via noble cards — Nobles grant additional points when prerequisites are met.
- set collection / engine-building — Cards provide permanent bonuses and generate points; nobles reward with points.
- token collection and exhaustion — Players collect gem tokens to purchase cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- weirdest game of Splendor I've ever played, it's an experience
- I burned 155 calories
- this is probably one of the dumbest ideas I've had
- I can't think of a single word right now
- that's five letters I'm tired I'm running
References (from this video)
- Accessible to gateway gamers
- Smooth engine-building
- Depth for heavier players
- Elegant use of casino-style poker chips as resources
- Pacing can be slow for some players
- Less thematic narrative compared to some theme-heavy games
- engine-building and set-collection through gem cards and nobles
- Renaissance-era gem market
- abstract economic progression with evolving engine
- Splendor Duel
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — purchasing cards advances the player's engine, enabling more efficient resource generation.
- engine-building — purchasing cards advances the player's engine, enabling more efficient resource generation.
- noble cards / prestige points — acquiring noble cards via gem combinations to gain points and objectives.
- Resource management — managing gem tokens to fund card purchases and maintain options.
- set collection — players gather gem resources to purchase development cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Splender is the OG.
- you can teach it to a gateway gamer, but you can also really be a heavy gamer on it.
- it's the poker chips. It's smooth.
- Splender Killer gets thrown around like so much.
References (from this video)
- Array
- Medieval
- Abstract
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Daniel picked up some new game called gloom Haven that looked interesting to him
- I lent Arkham Horror first edition
- we did call it Shelfs side
- the Dune video got some traction then wingspan
- Battlestar Atlantica
- Suburbia review
References (from this video)
- Solid core engine
- Pacing works well with timers
- Timer pressure could affect the deliberation in card choices
- Array
- economic engine
- Seven Wonders Duel
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Resource management — managing gem resources to enable purchases
- set collection — players collect gems to acquire cards that generate points
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- I love playing with the chess timer
- it's addicting
- my final say is to at least try using a chest timer for one of your two player games
- we could finish brass Birmingham under 75 minutes
- this chest timer is My Little Secret Weapon to use with a handful of friends to get through our favorite games faster
- I definitely think we could do it more games less time
References (from this video)
- Elegant, clean progression and sense of ongoing progression
- Clear upgrade path and strong sense of value for discounts
- Tends to be classic; may feel less novel to some players
- Numerous versions exist (Marvel, Pokemon, Duel) which may dilute the core experience
- Trading gems to acquire permanent resources
- Renaissance gem trading with simple but deep economic progression.
- Abstract, highly strategic
- Seven Wonders
- Seven Wonders Duel
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Limited token stock — You cannot stockpile unlimited gems, preserving value of discounts.
- Ongoing resources on cards — Each card purchased provides an ongoing resource (gem) usable in future purchases.
- Stock holding — You cannot stockpile unlimited gems, preserving value of discounts.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Skyler: My favorite game featuring ongoing discounts is Flamecraft.
- Dylan: This is my favorite of the West Kingdom trilogy, and managing ongoing discounts is a major key to success in the game.
- Aaron: Space the final frontier. These are the voyages of whatever you name your ship.
- Caitlyn: In Ark Nova, you can claim partner zoos in four of the five continents. And whenever you play an animal into your zoo that matches one of your partner zoos, you get a three credit discount on the animals cost.
- Skyler: This creates a very low conflict environment where everyone helps to improve the town, making it awesome for families.
- Jamie: Lord of the Rings Duel for Middle-earth really got me thinking about the decision space of do I spend money on a card now or wait to get the resource that a card provides so I don't have to pay it in the future.
References (from this video)
- Accessible gateway game with elegant, efficient rules
- Fast play cycles and clear player interaction through resource competition
- Solid strategic depth with good scalability across player counts
- High table feel with lightweight downtime
- Some players may find it lacks heavy storytelling or thematic depth
- Downtime can occur if players chase less optimal card options
- Limited direct conflict between players in a way some players expect from competitive games
- mercantile strategy with emphasis on resource acquisition and engine-like card progression
- Renaissance-era Europe gem trade, where merchants seek wealth through gem collection and card-based development
- economy-driven, abstract storytelling; minimal thematic narration tied to card acquisition rather than a fixed story
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- card drafting — Players draft and buy development cards to create a scoring engine while competing with others for valuable cards.
- Card drafting/purchasing — Players draft and buy development cards to create a scoring engine while competing with others for valuable cards.
- engine building — Purchased cards provide ongoing benefits and unlock future purchasing power to reach higher-scoring cards.
- engine-building — Purchased cards provide ongoing benefits and unlock future purchasing power to reach higher-scoring cards.
- gem economy pressure — Limited gem pools and the need to reserve or acquire specific colors adds strategic tension.
- Resource management — A token economy requires balancing gem supply with card purchases and point potential.
- set collection — Players collect gem tokens to pay for development cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Mark Andre invented Splendor so that introverts could have a thinky gateway game that they could play silently and without fear of conversation. And we will uphold that dream to the letter.
- Hey, did you see Amy and Maggie's Game of Splendor last week?
- Splendor. unforgivable.
References (from this video)
- solid engine for beginners
- quick rounds
- over-familiar to some players
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Set collection / engine building — collect gems to acquire cards that generate more resources
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Castles of Burgundy oh my goodness I love this game so much
- Cascadia is definitely one of the lighter of the bunch
- I would freaking love in the future to compete in this
References (from this video)
- clear rules
- tight engine with elegant decisions
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Set collection / engine building — Collect gems to buy developments and build a score engine
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Life finds a way.
- AI can't do that.
- Talk is cheap because supply always exceeds demand.
References (from this video)
- Highly accessible and quick to play
- Strong gateway title for casual players
- Well-suited for casual and family play
- Some players may outgrow it quickly as they seek deeper games
- Gold and gem resource management to acquire cards
- Renaissance-era gem trade
- Economic engine-building with straightforward progression
- Wingspan
- Dixit
- Century: Spice Road
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- deck-building — Acquire cards that grant resources and actions
- Resource management — Manage gems to purchase development cards
- Set collection / chain-building — Cards enable higher-value purchases and combos
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Board gaming changes on a monthly basis.
- The internet obviously had a huge change on the industry, but the tsunami of game releases is ridiculous.
- There’s always gatekeeping, but it’s changed; board gaming is a fairly accepting hobby.
- Cards Against Humanity brought more people into the hobby, for better or worse.
- The future’s very bright for board gaming, as long as publishers put out games with purpose.
References (from this video)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- What enters my collection is a whole another story.
- I'm absolutely hooked on it. I love Primal.
- If I add something to my collection, ideally I want to see it there a year from now, at least a year from now.
- It is such a good implementation of the Glass Road system.
- It's not forever, but it feels like a forever game for me.
References (from this video)
- very good at
- gems
- trading
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- hey everyone who just kind of made it in time i'm not going to say it was a shall we say the easiest time to get here
- come on seriously i need to get on with a stream in a minute
- what is going on at fantasy fly at the moment they're just not bringing out any major good games
- every time they try to do a spin-off game that isn't a card game they tend to fail
- root's okay but i think the fact that you've got to have a balanced group of players who know what they're doing to play it i think it's just too much
- i just i'm okay with rue but i would never seek it out
References (from this video)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- gaming is for everybody
- Black history is American history
- If it happened on American soil it's American history
- History is not a priority in this country; comfort is the preeminent american value
- we're here we're here we're here
References (from this video)
- elegant and accessible
- satisfying growth as you build your engine
- some players find it abstract
- not everyone loves the theme
- economic engine-building
- renaissance-era gem trade
- clean, elegant abstraction
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine-building — collect gems to purchase progressively better cards and bonuses
- Resource management — managing gems to optimize purchases and future turns
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's yatsi with monsters fighting
- open it up, play right away
- this is one game that I will sort of put any wager on
- Just One is a guaranteed winner
- Star Wars and Memoir 44 together
References (from this video)
- easy to learn
- quick games with satisfying pacing
- can feel repetitive after multiple plays
- engine-building and resource acquisition
- Renaissance gem-trading market
- abstract economic competition
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine-building — Collect gem chips to build an engine that grants discounts and points.
- resource_management — Careful management of gems and discounts to optimize turns.
- set-collection — Gather gems to meet noble cards for additional points.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- "This game, it's timeless."
- "Five Tribes is a cutthroat head-to-head game for us."
- "Dominion is the classic."
- "Terraforming Mars is ugly, but yet a fantastic game."
- "I love the little panda."
- "The acrylic meeples and pieces"
References (from this video)
- easy to learn
- quick plays
- strong replayability
- can feel repetitive over time
- light on thematic flavor
- renaissance luxury resource development
- Renaissance-era gem market
- abstract economic
- Cascadia
- Dominion
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — Develop a resource engine to generate points and prestige.
- engine-building — Develop a resource engine to generate points and prestige.
- set collection — Acquire gems to purchase development cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Splendor is a really accessible game to learn.
- Clover hits the balance of humor and puzzle while also being cooperative.
- Cartographers covers more situations than almost any other game I've talked about.
References (from this video)
- Reliable gateway with easy teachability
- Fast plays and clear pacing
- Can be repetitive for experienced players
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine-building — Acquire cards to create increasingly powerful combinations
- set collection — Gems and purchasing cards to gain points
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Point salad is a great gateway.
- This is a wonderful hobby.
- We had a lot of first time visitors to the game night.
References (from this video)
- Super simple
- Can teach in less than 5 minutes
- Perfect non-gamer game
- Collecting gems and buying cards
- Renaissance gem trading
- Abstract set collection
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — Cards count as gems for rest of game
- set collection — Collect gem chips, exchange for cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Does your wife ever tell you what to do all the time especially what board games to play
- My wife loves games where she beats your ass
- This was the game we took to the hospital when my son was born
- I'm afraid for the calendar its days are numbered
- What does a sprinter eat before a race? Nothing, they fast
References (from this video)
- Fast-paced and accessible for casual and experienced players
- high interaction through blocking and strategic reserving
- deep strategic choices via color discounts and nobles
- clear arc from opening to potential finish based on card timing
- can be punishing through blocking and top-deck/reserve dynamics
- depth can be limited for very casual players
- resource management and building a chain of discounts to secure points
- Renaissance-era gem trade with noble patrons
- competitive meta-game in a televised finals scenario
- Terraforming Mars
- Castles of Burgundy
- Brass
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- card_reserve_and_purchase — players can reserve cards and/or buy from the market to gain discounts and points
- discounts_as_currency — purchased cards grant ongoing discounts on future purchases, effectively acting as a second currency
- noble_cards — nobles grant points when players meet certain gem requirements
- set_collection — players collect gem tokens to purchase development cards
- token_management — players must manage a limited hand of tokens, with strategic considerations about hand size and top deck decisions
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- When you play Splendor competitively, it's very different from the engine-building kind of style.
- the speed that these games go is pretty incredible.
- it's brass. It's very dynamic. It depends on the play style you have and also how many players are at the table.
- the discount is like an invisible coin that exists outside of your 10 coin limit.
- turn 24 would be the limit of when the game would end.
- you are looking for the cards that can get you point and you don't need any setup to actually get to.
References (from this video)
- clean design and elegant rules
- quick play and good for new players
- high misdirection and strategic depth for a small footprint
- can feel repetitive after many plays
- cascading optimizations can overwhelm some players
- resource management and engine-building through gem collection
- renaissance-era gem trade
- economic, elegant
- Code Names
- Space Base
- Patchwork
- Wingspan
- Blood Rage
- The Crew
- Catan
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — As you acquire cards, your ability to generate resources improves.
- engine-building — As you acquire cards, your ability to generate resources improves.
- set collection — Acquiring gems and using them to purchase cards that grant points and bonuses.
- Set collection / resource optimization — Acquiring gems and using them to purchase cards that grant points and bonuses.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- there arose such a clatter I sprang from the table to see what was the matter
- now code names now space base now Patchwork and wingspan
- they Bend up the cards they don't wash their hands they Place their workers
- gamer whose turns don't take all darn day
- happy gaming to all and I hope that you win
References (from this video)
- Accessible strategy
- Fast play
- Limited player interaction
- Can feel repetitive over long runs
- engine-building through gem collection and card purchasing
- Renaissance-era resource trading and gem economy
- abstract/eurogame
- Splendor Duel
- Splendor Marvel (theme variants)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine-building — purchasing cards provides ongoing benefits and engine interactions
- set-collection — players collect gemstone tokens to buy cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Stara is a splendor master.
- I like to reserve cards.
- The cards act as emotional bridges, letting players tackle complex topics without having to find the perfect words first.
- Earth promo card with the red fox and badger promo card is a collector's item.
- Thunder Road Vendetta is a blast. Yes, it is the best.
References (from this video)
- Found it a little dry
- Didn't particularly connect
- Trading game
- Renaissance gem trading
- Thematic
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- card drafting
- Resource accumulation
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- It wasn't just the hundred sort of best designed games this was the hundred games that I feel that I'm particularly sort of connected to
- The games that have a place in my heart really games that I've got a lot of nostalgia for
- It felt a bit like doing a roll and write game but without all of the sort of convenience
- I wish I still had castles of burgundy and notre dame
- The main thing that got in the way for me was all the iconography
- I do use board games as an escape from screens and technology
- I really like the production of cockroach poker
- I found it was a game where I could see the ending coming and then someone would just go and there we go we've got another 20 minutes now
- It feels like something other than a board game
- The decisions you make in the game are very very slight
- Right up my alley
- I do really like push your luck
- That's my favorite game
- Abyss is my second favorite game
- I love pekka pig
- I just think it's ugly
References (from this video)
- fast, elegant, and easy to learn
- high replayability with straightforward strategy
- minimal downtime and smooth table presence
- potential for repetitiveness over long sessions
- interactions are indirect, which some players find less engaging
- economic engine-building with resource collection and card purchases
- Renaissance Europe gem trade network
- abstract progression with clean, fast-paced feel
- Splendor Duel
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Card/Chit Market — a rotating market of cards creates dynamic access and competition
- engine building — cards provide persistent discounts and point potential as the tableau grows
- engine-building — cards provide persistent discounts and point potential as the tableau grows
- market-based selection — a rotating market of cards creates dynamic access and competition
- set collection — players collect gem tokens to acquire cards from a market
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- "I still like Splendor Duel."
- "there's more going on."
- "the purity of Splendor and the race that you're making"
- "weight difference"
References (from this video)
- Fast play
- Accessible for new players
- May feel repetitive after multiple sessions
- Economic engine-building through gem collection
- Renaissance gemstone market
- Light and abstract
- Grand Austria Hotel
- Artifacts, Inc
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — Cards grant resources to enable future purchases.
- set collection — Acquire gem chips to purchase development cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's the two kids from the hobby and of course to people of color
- diversity one through the door
- family play together they stay together
- this hobby is for everybody
- we want to make a difference in this hobby
References (from this video)
- Elegant, fast-paced with beautiful components
- Clear path to victory via prestige points
- Requires planning to optimize gem use and card sequencing
- Gem collection and noble patronage
- Renaissance gem trade in Europe
- Economic engine-building with noble rewards
- Monopoly
- For Sale
- Marrakesh
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — Accumulate cards to generate more gems and points.
- set collection — Collect gem tokens to purchase development cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- monopoly at its core is a game about buying and selling property
- monopoly is built on the element of luck that comes from it being a roll and move style game
- it's five minutes to learn it's great for players of all skill levels
References (from this video)
- Quick and easy to play
- Great gateway game
- Good for beginners
- gem_trading
- economic
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
References (from this video)
- Very tight competition and short play times
- Strong two-player and multi-player balance
- Can feel repetitive after many plays
- The chain of discounts can be fragile in some groups
- engine-building through gem collection
- Renaissance-era gem trade
- clear, concise
- 7 Wonders
- Monumental
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine-building — cards provide discounts and victory points building an engine
- set-collection — collecting gem tokens to purchase cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- for the fans so yeah drop brain down below
- these links do help support the channel and we appreciate that
- it's a big epic experience and there's no other game you can schedule a day with six people to have this shared epic moment
References (from this video)
- quick to learn, tight engine, high table presence
- low player interaction in some plays
- resource accumulation to acquire better assets
- renaissance gem trading and tableau building
- abstract economy
- Azul
- Other engine-building gateway games
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Resource management — currency-like gem system with increasing capabilities
- Set collection / engine building — buy gems to purchase cards that increase income
- tableau building — build a personal engine of cards to win
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- our goal is just to make this world a better place, one board gamer at a time
- empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another
- co-op games allow me to talk with other players, plan together
- it's amazing; they came hard
- this is a game built by people from that heritage
References (from this video)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- central market + set collection — players collect gems and purchase cards from a central display, which then convert into points and powers.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- tableau builders feature a wide and diverse range of markets and currencies
- the beauty of this mechanism is the chain reactions that it creates when you take your turn
- it's a really nice feedback loop
- the world feels bigger than your own little player area
- tableau building is a core, solid mechanic that many designers build around
References (from this video)
- resource collection and engine-building with nobles
- renaissance-era gem trade and merchant activity
- abstract-leaning with thematic flavor
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine_building — building an engine to attract nobles for points
- set_collection — collecting gems to purchase cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- It's a wonderful day to celebrate mothers and what they do for us.
- I'm going to give you a list of games that you can just take to the table and have a good time.
- Survive is so much fun—take a look at it—you will laugh till you cry.
- Cat in the Box hands down. Yes, hands down, cat in the box.
References (from this video)
- easy to learn
- quick to play
- less thematic for some players
- Puerto Rico
- Wingspan
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- set collection — collect gems to purchase increasingly powerful cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- there's no right way to play games
- there's no one genre or style of player which is more valid than another
- just because you're a rogue doesn't mean you couldn't enjoy a game of chess or Splendor or Puerto Rico
References (from this video)
- very accessible
- quick plays with elegant decisions
- replayability can feel repetitive for some
- engine-building through gem collection
- Renaissance-era gem trading
- abstract economic engine with stylish visuals
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — gradually build a scoring engine through card combinations
- set collection — collect gem chips to purchase development cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- "this is a very welcoming and very friendly community"
- "no bs and no tolerance when it comes to toxicity"
- "you should actually say to you welcome back because you were on season one episode two"
- "we really want to create and what we strive to do is create a welcoming inclusive space for everybody"
- "it's a very welcoming awesome group"
References (from this video)
- beautiful artwork
- accessible entry point into hobby
- tight, satisfying gameplay loop
- some people pushing back on its popularity
- criticism that it’s overly simple for some players
- gem collection and engine-building
- renaissance gem trade
- tactical, elegant
- Splendor tournament anecdote (international tabletop day)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- chip management — managing tokens to optimize purchases
- engine-building — accumulating cards to create future discounts
- set collection — gathering gem chips to purchase cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- the artwork sold you
- it's the perfect game to teach people who don't play games
- volcano chits and lava flows
- it's like mafia
- the cards you mix them into a faction and now you have like ninja ghosts or like fairy dragons
References (from this video)
- Simple to teach
- Beautiful artwork
- Resonates with people
- Uses familiar components
- Easy to learn
- Gateway game
- Expansion modules are just okay
- Collecting gems to attract nobles
- Renaissance gem trading
- Economic set collection
- Century: Spice Road
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — Cards help build engine for future purchases
- Multi-use cards — Cards give points and discounts
- set collection — Collecting gems/cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- It's so hard for us to come together to be cooperative
- If you don't have dessert you get hurt
- We wore out the cards we played it so much
- Multi-use card to the fifth degree
- Some games are nice to me some are not
- You can have both of them in your collection
References (from this video)
- clean rules, quick play
- great for new gamers and families
- can feel dry for some
- scaling can vary by player count
- economic engine-building through gem collection
- renaissance gem trade
- accessible, elegant engine-building
- Codenames
- Space Base
- Patchwork
- Wingspan
- Blood Rage
- The Crew
- Catan
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — cards provide continuing benefits toward scoring
- engine-building — cards provide continuing benefits toward scoring
- set collection — players collect gem tokens to buy development cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- "Code Names, now Space Base, now Patchwork and Wingspan, on Blood Rage, on the crew, on Splendor and Katan."
- "Take your turn. Take your turn. Take your turn. Play."
- "He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work."
- "Take care cuz I'll be back again."
- "For gamers who cheat or gamers who whine, or gamers whose turns take up far too much time, they bend up the cards."
- "The shelf elf gives them what they deserve."
- "happy gaming to all and I hope that you win."
References (from this video)
- easy to teach
- high accessibility
- strong gateway appeal
- artwork may feel dry to some
- minimal variance once learned
- economic engine-building with gem resources
- Renaissance-era resource trading and merchant activity
- accessible gateway strategy
- Camel Up
- Libertalia
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — build a scoring engine through cards and gems
- set collection — collect gems to purchase development cards
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- The Spiellers Yares Award is the most prestigious award in board gaming in the world.
- Bucket King 3D uses plastic cups that stack on top of each other to give it a real three-dimensional view.
- It's a lot of fun.
- This is not a great game, but it is a funny one.
- Splendor is everywhere. The artwork is so boring. It’s a lovely game, don’t get me wrong.
- Rise of Augustus demonstrates that bingo is the one thing that makes it so accessible.
- This is an accessible, simple game. It's got a beautiful look to it.
- Concept would have been a worthy winner.
- Arcadia looks amazing when you play it and lay it out on the table.
References (from this video)
- excellent gateway/intro to modern board gaming
- scales well across player counts
- fast, tense decisions with both offense and defense potential
- arguably not a 'board game' by some party-game standards
- some players can outpace others with early engine setups
- gem economy and engine development
- Renaissance gem trading
- abstract economic realism
- 7 Wonders
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- card drafting — Choose cards that grant gems and/or future scoring options.
- engine building — Build a chain of cards to generate points efficiently.
- engine-building — Build a chain of cards to generate points efficiently.
- set collection — Collect gems to purchase increasingly valuable cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- we are embarking on our top 50 journey
- the games for the most part are going to be shipped directly from the publishers
- we have excluded games that we've only played one time
- crossovers obviously because we share a collection a lot
- please keep in mind we are not here to sway you one way or the other but we do have to disclose
References (from this video)
- extremely accessible to new players
- tight core loop with satisfying, tangible mechanics
- presentation and components are gorgeous
- box is larger than needed for the content
- some may find it repetitive after multiple plays
- resource collection and engine-building with gem tokens
- Renaissance gem trade and jewelry crafting
- classic, elegant, with straightforward scoring and minimal theme manipulation
- Century: Golem Edition
- Century: Spice Road
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- board organization and reserves — noble cards and reserve mechanics add strategic depth
- set collection and engine-building — collect gems to purchase cards which generate points and bonuses
- tiered card purchasing — cards have costs in gems; gold acts as a wild token
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- This is the definitive Game of Thrones game if you want to capture the feeling of the epic battles for the throne.
- The best thing about this game is winning as House Lannister.
- The dice's combat is great and I personally do not like playing with the optional tides of battle cards.
- The art as always with Red Raven Games is stunning.
- Chinatown is deeply rooted in stereotypes of Chinese businesses and families; if you find that offensive, this game won't be for you.
- Circadian's First Light is a busy game with a heck of a lot going on.
References (from this video)
- fast-paced and accessible
- deep strategic options with multiple viable paths
- scales well to different player counts, notably 3 players
- economic engine-building and resource management
- Renaissance era merchants trading gems to build wealth and prestige
- abstract/engine-building with noble scoring
- Cities of Splendor
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- benefits from permanent bonuses — purchased cards provide permanent bonuses that reduce future costs
- card drafting — players draft and acquire development cards to gain permanent bonuses and prestige
- end game bonuses — purchased cards provide permanent bonuses that reduce future costs
- End-game trigger — the game ends when a player reaches a set prestige threshold (e.g., 15)
- noble visits and prestige — achieving certain bonus thresholds attracts nobles for extra points
- reserve and joker wildcard — players can reserve a card and take a gold joker that can substitute any color
- set collection — collect gem tokens (three different or two of the same) to purchase cards and unlock discounts
- set collection / resource acceleration — collect gem tokens (three different or two of the same) to purchase cards and unlock discounts
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- the slender is a game that can be enjoyed by many different types of gamers different age groups and experience levels
- it's the perfect game for three players and it only takes about half an hour
- what I liked the most about it is that there is different strategies you can follow it's fast paced and you always need to be alert about what your opponents are doing because you might need to adjust your strategy
- Cities of splendour which came out a few months ago that contains 4 different expansions to use with the base game
- you should definitely give it a go
References (from this video)
- One of favorite games of all time
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- This shelf is undoubtedly the hardest shelf for me that I've had to do of the three
References (from this video)
- Tightly focused, very accessible
- Fast turns and satisfying long-term payoff
- Clear path to victory with visible strategy
- Low interaction can feel hollow to some players
- Luck of draw is minimal but present in card availability
- resource acquisition to build prestige
- medieval market town
- abstract, economic
- Sushi Go
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine-building with discrete actions — Chips serve as both currency and fuel for future purchases.
- set collection / resource economy — Gain chips and reserve cards to build a constellation of prestige cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- euro games if you want to know exactly what a euro game is and why they're important
- king domino is a super light family euro
- starting with your castle you're gonna build a kingdom one tile at a time
- it's easy to explain to granddad
- it's the best possible entry point to this style of gaming better than katan
- Ticket to Ride tops a lot of lists not just for family euro games but games to introduce people to board gaming in general
- there's no player elimination it's super difficult to tell who's winning till the very end and it sold millions for a reason
- for new gamers it's absolutely worth your time
References (from this video)
- elegant, fast, easy to teach
- can feel repetitive over time
- wealth and prestige
- Renaissance gem trading
- abstract, elegant
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine-building — Cards generate ongoing effects and points.
- race/goal attainment — First to reach the target score wins.
- set collection — Acquire gem tokens to purchase cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- we're going to talk about 10 games we played the most in 2020
- this is a series y'all stay tuned
- roll for it the deluxe edition
- it's a fun game ... blowing up cauldrons
- we love you bye now
References (from this video)
- easy to teach for newcomers
- short, satisfying play sessions
- clear and readable card art
- tactile and satisfying tokens
- procedural sameness and potential repetitiveness
- few memorable moments or stories
- box size seems oversized for contents
- opulence, prestige, and influence of noble elites
- Renaissance-era gem trade and jewel crafting
- procedural, engine-building through card collection
- Century: Spice Road
- Century: Golem Edition
- Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- card_purchase — Spend gems to acquire cards, which may produce bonuses and future discounts.
- noble_claim — Nobles are claimed when you meet gem requirements without costs.
- reserve_card — Reserve a card from display to protect it and gain gold.
- Resource management — Take gems from the reserve (three different types or two of the same type).
- resource_gathering — Take gems from the reserve (three different types or two of the same type).
- set collection — Collect sets of cards and gems to achieve nobles and points.
- token_management — Money and gems are managed with a ten-gem limit; gold acts as wild.
- Turn Order: Claim Action — Nobles are claimed when you meet gem requirements without costs.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Splendor is an exceptionally good game for people new to the Hobby.
- it's incredibly accessible with rules you can teach to children and people with limited hobby game experience
- the best thing about this game is a satisfying clunkiness of the tokens
- the speed of which the game can be played is really good
- if shiny things appeal to you try Azul stained glass of sintra
- there is a slight procedural sameness to a game of splendor and the game can get repetitive after a while
References (from this video)
- fast to learn and play
- strong, elegant engine-building loop
- some players may want more depth with expansions
- economic engine-building with gem collection
- Renaissance-era gem trade and commerce
- mechanical and elegant rather than story-driven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- engine building — collect gems to purchase development cards, increasing options over time
- engine-building — collect gems to purchase development cards, increasing options over time
- Rule-based simplification — simple-to-teach rules with quick turns
- Set-collection/resource management — gems and cards form the core supply and purchasing power
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- five games randomly ranked
- brother Smurf
References (from this video)
- Easy to teach, widely recognized by students
- Creates a satisfying 'one more time' feeling
- Can become repetitive for some players after multiple plays
- resource accumulation and engine building
- Renaissance gem trade
- economy-driven progression with accessible spacing
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Set collection / engine building — Players collect gems to purchase development cards that produce ongoing benefits.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's a jousting game that's kind of vicious and it's based on colors and numbers
- Sushi Go Party is an adorable and really easy to learn and teach drafting
- Splendor is addictive but they just can't quit
- Diamonds because it's a trick-taking game so kids who have played hearts or spades tend to like it
- Castle Panic has been a huge hit in my classroom
- Escape the Dark Castle
- Azul is one of those evergreen games
References (from this video)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- one of the most kick-ass trophies I think I've ever seen built in the world.
- The real winners are all of us because lying to us.
- Mortal enemies, lifetime friends.