Have you ever bought a new game that just did not live up to your expectations?
I think we have all been there, you are in your local game store browsing the shelves when you come across a game that catches your eye and you make a quick impulse buy only to put it on the tabletop and realize it may have been a mistake. My closet is filled with titles that never make it into my bag when I make my weekly pilgrimage to my local game store.
I am sure that a lot of you reading today feel the same way. Today I want to walk through some steps that I use to make sure that I am not adding to that unused collection. (insert image of a stack of games)
1.) Decide on a game type that interests you
There are so many ways to come to the game store and play, there are boardgames, living card games, trading card games, skirmish games, and my favorite wargames. The first step that I always take when deciding on a new game is to decide what I am in the mood to play. I would recommend trying new things in this stage, don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone here. Some of the best experiences that I have had gaming have been discovering amazing games in a genre that I had very little experience in.
2. Explore a setting that fits your taste
Once you have decided on the type of game that you want to play now it is time to find a setting where the game takes place that peaks your interest. For some this could mean finding a game set in a fantasy realm with axes and dragons, for others this could be a game set in the distant future with advanced technology and alien lifeforms. The setting of your game is going to dictate a lot of the enjoyment that you derive from it so make sure that you look closely at the themes in the games you are deciding on. Another important aspect of this is the art style employed by the designers, I know for me my most played game is Warmachine and Hordes, a game developed by Privateer Press. The game is set in a world filled with steam powered robots and giant monsters controlled by mages, it skates the line of having a fantasy setting mixed with some strange and unusual technology. I love the art style that they employ and the models are really unique when you compare them to most games on the market.
3. See if there is a community at your local game store
I know one of the hardest things to do when discovering a new gaming experience is to find people to play the game with. Do some research before you make a purchase to see if there is a community of people to play with in your local area. This could mean searching for a group on Facebook or simply just asking around at your local game store. I think this is definitely the most critical stage in the decision making process because even if you love a game, if you don't have a community to enjoy it with you are out of luck.
4. Set a Budget
This is another really important part in the process, so many of the games on the market cost an outrageous amount of money to even dip your toe into not to mention if you want to play the game competitively. However if you are just looking for something to give you a change of pace to mix up the weekly routine there are a lot of options that won't break the bank. I highly recommend setting a budget and sticking to it, I can tell you from experience you will be happy that you did.
5. Explore options past just buying what is on the shelf at your local game store
Now I always recommend supporting your local game store as much as you possibly can, local stores give you a place to gather and play the games that you love. However your local store may not carry all the games that are on the market so it is important to keep your options open. Shopping online for your games can be a great way to discover new things and if you find a game that is great maybe you can convince your local game store to carry it.
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