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So what are "Euro" Games ?

Below are some frequently asked questions about "Euro" Games.  You can, of course, get in touch with us and we would be more than happy to discuss any aspect of the gaming world with you.  From advice on what to buy, for a title that you do not see on our site, to what is a Meeple ! - we would love to hear from you.

Are you new to "Euro" games ?

If you are new to "Euro" games then you are in for a treat.  "Euro" games is one of the terms used to describe the board and card games that have been developed in Europe, although there are now designers from many other countries throughout the world designing similar games.

How are "Euro" games different to "normal" games ?

The majority of "Euro" games are very different to the games you may be used to seeing in the shops and playing in the UK.  If you were to stop people in the street and ask them to name 4 games, they would most likely answer with a combination of Cluedo, Monopoly, Scrabble and Trivial Pursuit, but may include games such as Boulderdash, Pictionary etc.

A common factor present in "normal" games is the need for either specialist knowledge or artistic ability, or the tendency to eliminate one or more of the players before the game ends.

Another factor common in "normal" games is a luck factor.  A lot of "normal" games require the roll of dice to move around a board, thus requiring players to be lucky to get the roll they need.

The majority of "Euro" games do not share these factors.  Almost all such games allow an equal chance for all players to win at any point in the game.  The emphasis is more on player interaction, and the careful application of skill and strategy.  Luck still plays a part, is its emphasis and impact is often much reduced.

What is a good game for introducing myself and others to "Euro" games ?

This is a question that is often asked by people new to "Euro" style games.  There are many games that are considered to act as a good introduction to "Euro" games, however answers to such a question are very subjective.

However, there are a few titles that would be in amongst most recommendations.  One of these is "Carcassone" from Rio Grande Games.  This game won the coveted "Spiel Des Jahres" (Game of the Year) award in Germany in 2001.  It incorporates a tile laying mechanism that you will see used a lot in "Euro" style games.  Each tile shows either a road, a town, a filed or a combination of a few or all three.  The tiles are drawn randomly by a player and then placed adjacent ot other tiles already placed created an ever expanding landscape.  Each player has a number of workers which they can place on the roads, towns or fields to secure areas and score points.  The rules are easily explained in just a few minutes, and the game incorporates a lot of skill.  It is also different every time it is played.  Many expansions are alkso available to further evolve play.

Another such title would be "Ticket to Ride" from Days of Wonder.  This game won the "Spiel Des Jahres" award in 2004, and also grown with many expansions.  In this game players are developing railways to link towns/cities.  Again the rules are very simple, but the game has much depth.  As the objectives of each player differ from game to game, each game is also different.

Where can I go to find out more ?

There are many board games clubs established throughout the country.  A quick search on the internet will normally reveal one near you.  There are also a number of excellent websites established containing more than you could ever wish to know about such games.

Boardgamegeek (www.boardgamegeek.com) is considered by many to be the most comprehensive site available.  They have pictures, rules, descriptions, reviews etc. of almost every game ever produced over the last 50 years or more.

Boardgamenews (www.boardgamenews.com) is also a great site for keeping up to date with what is happening in the world og "Euro" games.  The site has regular columnists and other features.

There are also an increasing number of podcasts dedicated to gaming that are available for download.  I would suggest reviewing boardgamegeek for the full list.  Most of these podcasts are produced monthly.

You can, of course, get in touch with us and we would be more than happy to discuss any aspect of the gaming world with you.  From advice on what to buy, for a title that you do not see on our site, to what is a Meeple ! - we would love to hear from you.  Our contact details are available at the foot of all our web pages.

Happy Gaming from all at Portway games.