What are your three favorite board games of all time?

[Wytefang]

I'm open to discovering some new, cool board games. I'm a huge fan (already) of Settlers of Catan but would love to hear what everyone else loves. Preferably games that are still in print or relatively easy to purchase (financially and from a rarity standpoint as well).

What say you all?

[GForce3062]

1. Monopoly
2. Sorry!
3. Risk

[Uprising]

I can honestly say Scape is my favorite. Followed by Talisman, 2nd edition not 3rd.

[0rbital]

Carcassonne
Ticket to Ride
Nexus Ops

I'll leave Heroscape off cause that's a given.

[Nwojedi]

1. LOTR Risk
2. Strip (insert board game here)
3. Balderdash

[GForce3062]

Of course Heroscape is my favorite but that's given.

[netherspirit]

I have more than three favorites, I like lots of games from lots of different categories...If I have to pick three (and Heroscape is omitted because this is the OTHER GAMES section)...in no particular order, these are the games that we play the most (bear in mind these are the favorites because we typically play 2 player)

Ticket to Ride (w/1910 expansion, bigger cards and more tickets)
Battlelore
Blue Moon City

Settlers of Catan would be on there, but we play 2 player games most of the time and it just doesn't work as a 2-player.

Puerto Rico is okay as a 2-player but other games are better.

Those would both be on a Favorite Games for more than 2 players list. When playing with more people that list would change, those are our current favorites because those are the ones we play the most.

[Chimpy]

Axis & Allies
Heroscape
Risk

I should be playing Settler's of Catan in the next two weeks or so. I will tell you if that changes my list then.

[Drumline3469]

It will.

[peterm]

I'd say Ticket to Ride, Nexus Ops, and Vegas Showdown are all good ones start with. The last two are pretty cheap nowadays, and they're all in print.

Lost Cities is a great 2-player game that's quick, too. And it's got a board, so it's a board game.

[NecroBlade]

Heroscape (obviously)
Risk (any)
Star Wars Epic Duels

Probably more, but those are off the top of my head.

1. MonopolyI always lose at that. :(

[Dread Pirate Fooflesnort]

1. HeroScape
2. Dungeons & Dragons (Does this count as a board game)
3. Chess

[ej]

1. Monopoly
2. Sorry!
3. Risk *

Boooo! Hisssss!

My superior list includes:

Carcassonne
Ticket to Ride
Upwords/Scrabble

These are my current favorites, and are subject to change.

*Monopoly and Monotony share a lot of the same letters for a reason. Sorry! makes me want to stab people and Risk is only fun if you like sending three units at a time to attack 2 of the 46 units holed up on Madagascar. Do you want to play a game or do you want to roll dice all night?

[markwars]

My favorite board games of all time...

Axis & Allies
Risk
Talisman (2nd edition)

My current favorites...

BattleLore
HeroScape

[ej]

My favorite board games of all time...

Axis & Allies
Risk
Talisman (2nd edition)



Have you played Talisman lately? If so, how do you think it compares to more recent games?

[scorpiusx]

After Heroscape:

#1: Monopoly
#2: Risk
#3: Stratego.

[kenjib]

Ticket to Ride (I like the simplicity of the standard version best)
Carcassonne, even though I suck pretty bad at it
Heroscape

I've also liked El Grande a lot the few times I've played it, but I don't think I've played it enough yet to call it a favorite. I need to get my friend to bring it to game night again. :)

[Dictatorbilbo]

1) go
2) Pictionary
3) Boggle

I've played settlers thrice, and I really don't get what people see in it. :? I mean, it was pretty fun, but it wasn't that wondeful...

[Joah]

Heroscape.
Battlelore.

Classic Risk and Descent are pretty much neck and neck.
So I have four favorites.

Do I win?
Whats my prize?

[DarkDino]

Heroscape
Risk
Monopoly
8)

[netherspirit]

All you people that have Monopoly on your list, need to get out there and experience REAL board games.

[Drumline3469]

Everybody own Monopoly, but nobody likes it because here's why. This is anyone two hours into a game of Monopoly. "EFF THIS GAME!!! It's four in the morning Grandma YOU WIN!!! I hate it when you're banker! Where'd you get those pink fifties?!"

[Havokscry]

Chutes and Ladders, Candyland, and Hungry Hungry Hippo.

[Neurosion]

This changes all the time. I mean Princes of Florence is an excellent game, but I doubt I'll be playing it much more. That said, as of today:

1) Tigris & Euphrates
2) Shogun
3) LoTR : The Confrontation (deluxe version printed on back of old version's pieces)

[NecroBlade]

Chutes and Ladders, Candyland, and Hungry Hungry Hippo.I hope those were a joke. Well, HHH is fun, for whatever reason.

[Fallen Templar]

Does this list include Heroscape? Well I'll include it anyway

Heroscape
Tide of Iron
Memoir '44
Descent *includes expansions
Robo Rally
Nexus
Betrayal on the House on the Hill
Risk 2210 AD
Star Wars the Queens Gambit
Catan
Carcassonne
BattleLore

Most Anticipated
Tannhauser
Xombies Attack!!!

Most Despised
regular Risk
Puerto Rico{ I don't understand the appeal of this Game, I rather trade wood for sheep}

[HSisforcoolkids]

Settlers of Catan (especially with Cities and Knights expansion)
Carcassonne
Yatzee, even though it's not really a board game.

I've played Tigris and Euphrates once and I think that could enter my top list if I played it more.

[Jormi_Boced]

It is hard to pick just 3.

The three most gamery games I own and enjoy are:
Puerto Rico
Amun Re
Carcassonne

The three I have been playing the most lately though, besides Scape are:
Attacktix
Citadels
Dragon Strike

The three I have probably played the most in the past few years excluding scape are:
Lord of the Rings TCG
Star Wars Epic Duels
Blokus Trigon

[philowar]

Favorite games hands-down: Heroscape

Other games we enjoy:
Stratego
Dungeon Quest
Conquest of the Empire
Mystery Rummy: Jack the Ripper (OK, card game)
Battle Line (OK, card game)
Hansa
Battle Ball
Commands & Colors: Ancients

[Dreaded Gazebo]

This will change any time you ask me, just like if you asked what my top favorite video games are. Here are my current most-played favorites:

* Shogun (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/20551)
* Descent: Journeys in the Dark (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/17226)
* Yspahan (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/22345)

And some of my other favorites that aren't getting played as much recently:

* Kingdoms (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/119)
* Ra (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/12)
* San Juan (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/8217)
* Citadels (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/478)
* Caylus (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/18602)

If I had to pick three I'd probably have to go with Kingdoms, San Juan and Shogun. I really do love those games and will never turn down a game. There are so many fantastic games out there, though, that it's too hard to pick ;)

If you haven't heard of any of these games, go check them out at your nearest game store or read up on them at the BGG links above. While there's nothing wrong with games like Risk, Monopoly, Scrabble, etc. I think you'll be amazed when you discover the depth in games that have come out in the past 10 years or so.

[RichardD]

'Scape is the one I'd insist on if marooned on a desert island, so that would be my top pick.

After that, probably Age of Steam Third Edition (except that although I own a copy, you can't buy one until later this year, and mine is a prototype).

I'm a butterfly, flitting from new game to new game. So another favourite right now is Phoenicia (a sort of reworked Outpost, only one that plays in under 90 minutes). I generally enjoy Settlers, when I'm not shouting at the dice; I think that San Juan is better than Puerto Rico, and although I've never played Caylus, I really like Caylus Magna Carta. I really like Powergrid, but haven't played it as much as I should have, and I love Antike.

Another longtime favourite that is often overlooked is Around The World In 80 Days.

[Jandars_Hope]

I don't play alot of board games so i'd have to say:
Heroscape
Monopoly
Chess (if classed as a board game!? Preferably Lotr Chess so you can play as the characters).

[netherspirit]

although I've never played Caylus, I really like Caylus Magna Carta.

I'm really looking forward to trying Caylus Magna Carta, I've heard good things. :) I really like Caylus, even if it is a bit of a brain burner sometimes.

Most Anticipated
Tannhauser

Me too, I am really looking forward to trying this one out at Gencon.

[Tiberius]

Heroscape
Titan (old avalon hill game)
Descent

[Tholarthemag]

Battletech,
And not that silly little "click" game either. I'm talking armor blasting, heavy PPC totin' rip-off-the-arm-and-beat-your-opponent with old school late 80's version with the paper and pencil record sheets. I can field a regiment with the old Ral Partha figures I have!

Heroscape, Because no one else here plays Battletech.

Star Wars Duels (played on a HS map!)

[Tiberius]

Battletech,
And not that silly little "click" game either. I'm talking armor blasting, heavy PPC totin' rip-off-the-arm-and-beat-your-opponent with old school late 80's version with the paper and pencil record sheets. I can field a regiment with the old Ral Partha figures I have!

Heroscape, Because no one else here plays Battletech.

Star Wars Duels (played on a HS map!)

Actually I have found the heroscape boards to be ideal for battletech. The hexes and tiles work great.

[Tholarthemag]

Battletech,
And not that silly little "click" game either. I'm talking armor blasting, heavy PPC totin' rip-off-the-arm-and-beat-your-opponent with old school late 80's version with the paper and pencil record sheets. I can field a regiment with the old Ral Partha figures I have!

Heroscape, Because no one else here plays Battletech.

Star Wars Duels (played on a HS map!)

Actually I have found the heroscape boards to be ideal for battletech. The hexes and tiles work great.

Yeah, they are great! The trees are useless and way too big but everything else is perfect! I especially like how it affects smaller mechs with LOS and hit locations based on that.

[zombiegod]

Dead of Night
Battlecars
Dungeonquest
Hive
Drakon
Zombie Plague

[justjohn]

Aside from HS:

Citadels

Blue Moon City

Jambo

That's if I had to choose 3. There are a handful of games that are neck to neck with these games, but these are ones the wife and I have probably enjoyed the most.

[ej]

Dead of Night
Battlecars
Dungeonquest
Hive
Drakon
Zombie Plague

I have a complete copy of Dungeonquest I bought off eBay (expansions and magazine supplements included... none of which was mentioned in the listing, either. yay me!). I have yet to play it. One of the main things about the game that appealed to me is the single-player rules.

I've also got Drakon, and the kids and I played that once or twice. It seemed too easy to get "caught" and it became frustrating. Maybe that was a fluke, though. What's your experience with it?

[Ormus]

If pressed to do a top three boardgames list (of all time) :

1. HeroScape (blasphemy, who says otherwise)
2. Chess
3. HeroQuest

Now if we added card games the story would change.

[monkeyfish]

1. Heroscape
2. Chess
3. Monopoly

[markwars]

Now if we added card games the story would change.

Yeah it would. Also adding RPGs, computer games, video games, etc. would greatly alter most of our lists. I am not even close to being primarily a board game afficianado...though there are plenty here that are.

[Cavalier]

HeroScape
HeroQuest
BattleMasters

[Ormus]

Now if we added card games the story would change.

Yeah it would. Also adding RPGs, computer games, video games, etc. would greatly alter most of our lists. I am not even close to being primarily a board game afficianado...though there are plenty here that are.

I only meant that card and board games are similar. And that many games incorporate the two together. I was not refering to regular four suit card deck games, but more to ccg's, tcg's, etc. which are in the board game family. There is a fine line between the board games and card games in some cases.

Whereas video/electronic games are completely different. (excluding Electronic Battleship, Simon, etc.)

[Aldin]

1) Starfire
2) Battletech
3) A House Divided

Should HS have made the list? Ask me in ten years ;)

~Aldin, Grognard

[Kepler]

In no prticular order.

Axis & Allies
Trivial Pursuit
Monopoly

I excluded games like Heroscape and Battletech since I consider them more miniature cards (even though the "miniatures" for Battletech were flat card board pieces with picture of the mechs on them). I plan to play more board games when the kids are older. I don't hang out with any adults that like anything more then mass marketed board games.

[ej]

I don't hang out with any adults that like anything more then mass marketed board games.

Aye. Sad but true. Not once has my family told me "Carcassonne was hella fun. Let's break that bad boy out again and have ourselves a hootenanny!" The other adults I hang out with just want to shoot up, base jump or take over another business through a hostile takeover.

[Sapper]

Tide of Iron ( just purchased this one)
Commands & Colors: Ancients
Ticket to Ride
Settlers of Catan
Twilight Struggle

I am sure there are others but these are the ones I can think of.

[Fallen Templar]

Most Anticipated
Tannhauser

Me too, I am really looking forward to trying this one out at Gencon. Now only if I could make it to Gen Con this year. I'm going overseas instead to Germany :)

[jcb231]

Heroscape, of course.

I also like Carcassonne, Scrabble (or Upwords), Ticket to Ride, Cave Troll, Chess, Checkers (or Chinese Checkers), Clue (or Mystery of the Abbey), and Monopoly. I know Monopoly has major problems, but my friends and I still get a kick out of it.

Hotels is fun too, or a good round of Texas Hold 'Em Poker. I also like Citadels and the occassional game of Killer Bunnies.

[toddrew]

Top three board games in terms of current desire to play (excluding HS via the "other games" exception ;) ):

BattleLore
Ticket to Ride (in any of its variants, though the original with the 1910 expansions (Big Cities is a blast) is my favorite incarnation)
Carcasonne

With the last two, the more the merrier, though I'm still hoping for an enjoyable multi-player variant of BL. I've yet to play the Reluctant Allies rules, though, and I'm hoping that will be fun.

[norseman1066]

That is a tough one but I'd say all time:

TFG Starfire (Original Ziplock Bag game, II & III)
Stratego
Risk

Current fav's that may enter the all time list eventually:

BattleLore
Memior'44
C&C:A
Wings of War

Strong mention to AH's Panzer Leader, Tactics II, SPI's War in Europe (The Original Monster Game), Napolean's Art of War (Eylau), TFG Star Fleet Battles. Various Companies: Monopoly, Sorry, Tank Battle, Stock Ticker. Scrabble, Upwords and of course Chess. HeroScape I've only managed to play 3 times so I can't rate it as a fav as yet. It is an interesting game but finding time and opponents has been tough. :(

My two pennies.

[norseman1066]

1) Starfire
2) Battletech
3) A House Divided

Should HS have made the list? Ask me in ten years ;)

~Aldin, Grognard

Wow I can't believe it!!?!!! Someone else liked Starfire! Kewl 8)

[ej]

Acquire is a big favorite of mine, too. I'd put that in place of my previous pick of Scrabble/Upwords.

[Hex Sinister]

1. Heroscape
2. Cosmic Encounter (Mayfair ed.)
3. Star Fleet Battles

I haven't played the last two in years, though. Cosmic Encounter was a great "poker night" game and there were always a lot of laughs. One of the appeals was that it didn't take 4 years to play a game. SFB on the other hand does take 4 years to play but I liked the complexity. I never got to play enough to master it.

I missed out on a lot of good boardgames due to CCG's and RPG's.

[naps420]

1) Heroscape
2) Risk
3) Atmosfear

[kenjib]

I've yet to play the Reluctant Allies rules, though, and I'm hoping that will be fun.

We played Reluctant Allies the other day and it was a lot of fun. The game was very close and in the end my side lost due in part to three factors:

1. Our opponent's dwarven crossbow forced us into a more aggressive posturing, which is not my preference - even though I sure do love those green goblin cavalry with 4 move.
2. I took a gamble in the endgame and tried to claim the last victory points in one turn instead of playing conservatively and trying to cycle my wounded units out. I should have retreated instead though because my partner had a pretty decent combo lined up that might have finished the game if I could only set things up to hold out for a turn.
3. They got a lot more good tactic cards combos off the rack in the early to mid game where they were ordering 8+ units per turn. The luck of the cards started turning back to our side toward the end though.

Interestingly enough both our earth elemental and their giant spider died very early on - in both cases to battle backs. :shock:

Overall it felt like a very natural extention of Battlelore into the 4 player domain. The reason Battlelore wasn't on my top list is that the game is a little bit on the heavy side. I'm frequently in the mood for a lighter game - which is why Carc and TtR were my other two choices. Another one I'd like to mention is Alhambra which I've really liked but, like El Grande, feel that I still need to play it some more.

[toddrew]

Overall it felt like a very natural extention of Battlelore into the 4 player domain. The reason Battlelore wasn't on my top list is that the game is a little bit on the heavy side. I'm frequently in the mood for a lighter game - which is why Carc and TtR were my other two choices. Another one I'd like to mention is Alhambra which I've really liked but, like El Grande, feel that I still need to play it some more.

That sounded like a typical 2-player game :) Heehee, you saw my other two picks, I didn't notice that you had chosen them as well, and for the same reason - light, but very fun games to play. Alhambra is a game I've been meaning to play for some time. I played a game of Alhambra Gardens (which I guess is basically a reissue of an earlier game, but re-released and renamed to capitalize on Alhambra's popularity) and liked that well enough, heck I love tile laying games in general.

[peterm]

HeroScape
HeroQuest
BattleMasters

Wow, somebody likes Craig Van Ness!

[toddrew]

HeroScape
HeroQuest
BattleMasters

Wow, somebody likes Craig Van Ness!

He forgot "Stratego Legends" ;)

[Geosmores]

Three is rather difficult. Since I really enjoy playing different games the most, and some games I only enjoy in the right mood or with the right people. But here are a few that are high on my list of most enjoyable. Not in order.

Settlers of Catan
Arkham Horror
San Juan
To Court the King
RoboRally
Arkham Horror
Ticket to Ride with 1910
Formula De (play in a racing league)
Cribbage
Magic the Gathering

[SgtDrill]

Blood Bowl
Civilization
Outburst

[Erasmas]

It's a toughie, but I have to say (at least for the time being and in no particular order) that it comes down to:

Settlers of Catan
Cranium
Heroscape

[jcb231]

Lots of Battlelore supporters. That game is a big money investment....especially since I hear the Call to Arms pack is a must-buy to really see the game's potential.

I didn't especially care for Memoir '44....would buying Battlelore be a bad idea? Are they very similar?

If Battlelore was 20 or even 30 bucks I'd likely have bought it already and not felt too terrible if I didn't like it so much, but given that most stores seem to be selling it for 50-70 dollars I'm not so quick to open my wallet. I don't even know how much extra the Call to Arms pack will be.

Is it worth starting a new expandable game or is my money better spent elsewhere?

[peterm]

It's $46.90 at Thoughthammer, and the Call to Arms is $13.40. You should certainly try the game as-is before getting any expansions.
I don't know how it is, but I do have it. Along with the Earth Elemental. I haven't had the chance to play any 2-player games like that yet. I always played Heroscape with 3+.

[Geosmores]

Lots of Battlelore supporters. That game is a big money investment....especially since I hear the Call to Arms pack is a must-buy to really see the game's potential.

I didn't especially care for Memoir '44....would buying Battlelore be a bad idea? Are they very similar?

If Battlelore was 20 or even 30 bucks I'd likely have bought it already and not felt too terrible if I didn't like it so much, but given that most stores seem to be selling it for 50-70 dollars I'm not so quick to open my wallet. I don't even know how much extra the Call to Arms pack will be.

Is it worth starting a new expandable game or is my money better spent elsewhere?

Memoir' 44 and Battlelore do share the same mechanics as does Command and Colors.

I have both along with all the expansions for both sets. I enjoy both about the same and they get about equal play time. I do think that Battlelore is a bit better because of the the theme, lore adds a nice addition to the game, and potential for the game to become much more complex and different with more expansion.

I would suggest that you start with just the base game first, then add Call to Arms. The game is very enjoyable without it, and if you are not sure about the game why spend more than you have to. If you do not like Battlelore I do not think Call to Arms will change that.

Also go check out the reviews at Boardgamegeek.com there are about 40 both positive and negative reviews of the game, which may help you make a choice in the matter.

[Snotwalker 8000]

Heroscape (obvious)
Axis & Allies (true classic game. Always fun, though very long setup)
Chess (if considered a "board game"... chess almost seems to be in a category on it's own...) www.gameknot.com is a great site to play chess against opponents from around the world.

As a kid, Stratego was also a lot of fun.

[GIR]

I like...

1. Chess

2. Heroscape

3. and Heroscape

[jcb231]

Lots of Battlelore supporters. That game is a big money investment....especially since I hear the Call to Arms pack is a must-buy to really see the game's potential.

I didn't especially care for Memoir '44....would buying Battlelore be a bad idea? Are they very similar?

If Battlelore was 20 or even 30 bucks I'd likely have bought it already and not felt too terrible if I didn't like it so much, but given that most stores seem to be selling it for 50-70 dollars I'm not so quick to open my wallet. I don't even know how much extra the Call to Arms pack will be.

Is it worth starting a new expandable game or is my money better spent elsewhere?

Memoir' 44 and Battlelore do share the same mechanics as does Command and Colors.

I have both along with all the expansions for both sets. I enjoy both about the same and they get about equal play time. I do think that Battlelore is a bit better because of the the theme, lore adds a nice addition to the game, and potential for the game to become much more complex and different with more expansion.

I would suggest that you start with just the base game first, then add Call to Arms. The game is very enjoyable without it, and if you are not sure about the game why spend more than you have to. If you do not like Battlelore I do not think Call to Arms will change that.

Also go check out the reviews at Boardgamegeek.com there are about 40 both positive and negative reviews of the game, which may help you make a choice in the matter.

Thanks. I've checked out BGG quite a bit and was hoping for some Heroscapers' opinions as they'd be the type to know if a Heroscape fan like myself would love it or hate it perhaps.

The reviews I read of call to arms seem to indicate that it makes Battlelore feel complete....as if the two should have been sold together. I also hear it adds the ability to do random scenarios and setups, which is HUGE for me. I hate being limited to a book of scenarios. In reading all the info, I feel like I would enjoy the game with Call to arms but not so much without....I'm still a bit on the fence though.

Thanks again for the info.

[toddrew]

The reviews I read of call to arms seem to indicate that it makes Battlelore feel complete....as if the two should have been sold together. I also hear it adds the ability to do random scenarios and setups, which is HUGE for me. I hate being limited to a book of scenarios. In reading all the info, I feel like I would enjoy the game with Call to arms but not so much without....I'm still a bit on the fence though.



I think I'm in the minority here, but BL feels complete to me without CtA. That being said, I do enjoy CtA very much too. But definitely wouldn't call it necessary. It is good in that it keeps the adventures "new" through the randomization of the units on the board, while still allowing for an element of control through the specialist cards and the placement of the deployment cards.

I would think coming from a HS perspective, the expansions for BL shouldn't be daunting investment wise. To get a full set of a wave of figures in HS costs me about 70 bucks, one unique and 2 of each common, whereas the figure releases for BL seem to be about $40 if they continue to release 2 specialist packs at a clip. Plus, I think they will offer individual units in blister packs.

I don't know if you play on Vassal at all, jcb231, but I'd love to show you the ropes with a game or two. Just pm me (open invitation to any reading this :) ).

[Elstree]

HeroScape
HeroQuest
BattleMasters

Wow, somebody likes Craig Van Ness!

Uh, I think you mean Stephen Baker. You know: the underappreciated "Ringo Starr" of the HeroScape designers. Or maybe he's the "George Harrison". Craig and Rob are definitely John and Paul though.

[kenjib]

I think I'm in the minority here, but BL feels complete to me without CtA. That being said, I do enjoy CtA very much too. But definitely wouldn't call it necessary. It is good in that it keeps the adventures "new" through the randomization of the units on the board, while still allowing for an element of control through the specialist cards and the placement of the deployment cards.

I agree with Toddrew about CtA. For me, the epic expansion is much more important since my game group usually consists of 4 people and without it I would rarely be able to play Battlelore at all. Then again, you seem to be more oriented toward the random scenario thing than I am jcb.

I would think coming from a HS perspective, the expansions for BL shouldn't be daunting investment wise. To get a full set of a wave of figures in HS costs me about 70 bucks, one unique and 2 of each common, whereas the figure releases for BL seem to be about $40 if they continue to release 2 specialist packs at a clip. Plus, I think they will offer individual units in blister packs.

While Heroscape is all about the units you field, Battlelore is much more about formations and large scale tactics. As a result, I really don't feel much need to buy new units for Battlelore at all. You can decide what level of financial commitment you want to make in the game. Just the base game is very complete and has tons of replay value with all of the scenarios posted online.

[toddrew]

While Heroscape is all about the units you field, Battlelore is much more about formations and large scale tactics. As a result, I really don't feel much need to buy new units for Battlelore at all. You can decide what level of financial commitment you want to make in the game. Just the base game is very complete and has tons of replay value with all of the scenarios posted online.

I didn't take the time to spell that out, but exactly my feelings as well. Plus, just knowing the mechanics of any new weapons introduced, like the longbows or dwarven axes, for examples, one can just use those without buying the actual minis.

With the ease of customization in this game, yeah, really the base game is the only "must have" of the entire system.

[Chimpy]

Axis & Allies (true classic game. Always fun, though very long setup)
.

Easy way around that. I just went and memorized where every peice went. Made the games so much faster.

[Sundance]

Twilight Imperium
Carcassone
Mutant Chronicles: Seige of the Citadel

[Hex_Enduction_Hour]

I'm a neo-gamer here. Only having taking an interest in miniatures boardgames since late 2004.
So besides Heroscape, I've really enjoyed:

Space Crusade
Capes & Cowls
Battlelore

I suspect I'll really enjoy Space Hulk if I ever play against an adult and several times.

[Darhelm]

1. Warmachine
2. Heroscape

[Elstree]

Three is too few. My current favorites by arbitrary category:

Skirmish-level war game: Heroscape
Battle-level war game: Battlelore
War/Campaign level war game: none currently (I'd say Axis and Allies, but it takes so durned long! I wish there were one I like as much as HS or BL)
Party game: Cash 'n Guns
Dungeon crawl: Betrayal at House on the Hill
Resource management: Settlers of Catan
Tile-laying: Carcassone
Auction: Hollywood Blockbuster
Territory control: Ticket to Ride
Card game: San Juan

[The Super Atheist]

1. Monopoly
2. Sorry!
3. Risk


I don't know why, but my brain simply cannot grasp how to play Risk, nor Scrabble. I think i'll read the rules again/eventually.



yeah, Heroscape is my favorite folowed by Monopoly.


P.S. Do not put hotels on your properties, keep 4 houses and cause a housing shortage!

[The Super Atheist]

1. Warmachine
2. Heroscape


What is wrong with you?

[royaldoy]

1. Arkham Horror :twisted:
2. Descent
3. Talisman 2nd edition

[champrjk]

Heroscape is of course my all time fave but I wont put it on my list.

1. Axis and Allies
2. Risk (Any but leaning more toward The Lord of the Rings)
3. Settlers of Catan

I have a couple more but they are out of production. Like Shogun.

[Heroscaper90]

1.Heroquest
2.Lotr combat hex
3.warhammer

not heroscape because its my fav and every body loves heroscape on here

[mrbistro]

A recent discussion in another thread prompted this bit of necromancy.

1. The Great Khan Game - my favorite empire-building game of all time. It's typical Tom Wham silliness for those looking for solid multiplayer action.
2. Heroscape - my favorite miniatures game. I won't 'splain why.
3. Return of the Heroes - my favorite adventure game of all time. It trades in the hack and slash of Talisman and Runebound for true adventure and story-telling. While there is plenty of fighting, in Return of the Heroes small quests like escorting a merchant or rescuing a maiden might lead to a key in the over-all plot. It has a marvelous expansion too.

[Ted]

Other than heroscape obviously;

1. Betrayal at house on the hill - I really reccommend you check this game out.

2. Primordial Soup - you get to play amebas. sounds dumb - really fun.

3. Pirate dice - really fast and fun game.

[Kepler]

I don't hang out with any adults that like anything more then mass marketed board games.

Aye. Sad but true. Not once has my family told me "Carcassonne was hella fun. Let's break that bad boy out again and have ourselves a hootenanny!" The other adults I hang out with just want to shoot up, base jump or take over another business through a hostile takeover.

That is why I am trying to instill a love of games into my kids and the nieces and nephews. It is already starting to pay dividends. My son and I play HS and sometimes the SW Minis game, Heroquest, and Dreamblade. He is still five (soon to be six) so he still needs to learn to play strategically, but that will come in time.

My 9 you nephew really like HS (I got him and another nephew the Master Set last Christmas) but I don't get to play with him much. I need to work on him because he is a bad sport with games. He was particularly annoyed last weekend when I had two squads of Anubian Wolves (with the Darklord's d20 bonus) take out his Silver Surfer, Agent Carr, and Omnicrons. :D

This weekend we are having a sleep over with the three nephews and one niece for my son's birthday. We should get a lot of scaping done.

[Ravven Demonwing]

I like

Star Wars Pocketmodels

Risk (Star Wars or LOTR, Just because after doing so many dang history classes, the real map seems to boring and predictable. Example-My friend would put his troops somewhere in lower China, and I'd be thinking "His troops would never survive through those dang Himalayas".)

And lastly, Dungeons and Dragons!

Oh, and I just don't understand all the hate that people are giving Monopoly. I don't personnally like it, but I don't zealously hate it either, please, it's a classic board game, keep your dirt comments to yourself, please.

[ej]

Oh, and I just don't understand all the hate that people are giving Monopoly. I don't personnally like it, but I don't zealously hate it either, please, it's a classic board game, keep your dirt comments to yourself, please.

Familiarity breeds contempt.

Dealing with family members who equate Game with Monopoly exclusively will do that to you.


Ticket to Ride
Talisman 2nd Edition
Game to Be Named Later
LNoE and Betrayal are incoming.

[netherspirit]

Oh, and I just don't understand all the hate that people are giving Monopoly. I don't personnally like it, but I don't zealously hate it either, please, it's a classic board game, keep your dirt comments to yourself, please.

Nope, sorry. Can't do it. Monolopy isn't fun.

Classic <> Good

[Ravven Demonwing]

Uh, I think you mean Stephen Baker. You know: the underappreciated "Ringo Starr" of the HeroScape designers. Or maybe he's the "George Harrison". Craig and Rob are definitely John and Paul though.

George and John are my two favorites of the Beatles (though that's hard to say 'cause the Beatles are my favorite band) And same with the other Beatles fans in my area. But maybe we're all just freaks...

[CheddarLimbo]

I love Cosmic Encounter, especially with all the More Cosmic additions added. Never a dull moment, and no two games are ever alike.

I also play a lot of Settlers of Catan, Cranium, Dark Tower (the old MB one with the electronic tower), and Risk.

I hear good things about Talisman. I'm excited they're re-releasing it so I'll finally be able to try it out.

[Temprit]

I have to go with some of the classics.

1. Stratego
2. Risk
3. Monopoly

[Elstree]

LNoE and Betrayal are incoming.

Yes! Yes! Yes!

[STAROCEAN980]

I like....



Big butts and I can not lie
wich other brothers can't deny
when a girl walks in with a itty bitty waist and a round thing in your face you get....
Oh, sorry 'bout that. :P

1: HeroScape
2: Monopoly
3: Risk

[RichardD]

yeah, Heroscape is my favorite folowed by Monopoly.

P.S. Do not put hotels on your properties, keep 4 houses and cause a housing shortage!

Gosh. I really can;'t fathom all of this love for Monopoly. The game is an hour and a half too long, relies too much on dice-rolling (unlike HS, where so many dice are thrown that it can balance out over a game or two), and can see players eliminated - or at least easily discounted - a long time before the finish. Added to which, real player interraction is limited (as many people don't trade properties).

Oh, and 4 houses are fine if you want to provoke a housing shortage, but three houses gives the best return for the money invested. Also aim for oranges, reds and yellows - statistically, they give the best return as well as having the best chances to have people land on them. Ignore almost everything else, and use anything that you pick up as trade bait to get those yellows, oranges and reds.

Rubbish game, though; it's not like I've read books on its strategies
:roll:

[norseman1066]

yeah, Heroscape is my favorite folowed by Monopoly.

P.S. Do not put hotels on your properties, keep 4 houses and cause a housing shortage!

Gosh. I really can;'t fathom all of this love for Monopoly. The game is an hour and a half too long, relies too much on dice-rolling (unlike HS, where so many dice are thrown that it can balance out over a game or two), and can see players eliminated - or at least easily discounted - a long time before the finish. Added to which, real player interraction is limited (as many people don't trade properties).

Oh, and 4 houses are fine if you want to provoke a housing shortage, but three houses gives the best return for the money invested. Also aim for oranges, reds and yellows - statistically, they give the best return as well as having the best chances to have people land on them. Ignore almost everything else, and use anything that you pick up as trade bait to get those yellows, oranges and reds.

Rubbish game, though; it's not like I've read books on its strategies
:roll:


I mentioned Monopoly as it is a family game and still is played far more often than HeroScape. If I had a son instead of a daughter HeroScape would no doubt see more table time, but, my daughter and wife just aren't that interested in it. It was the same when I was young ('70's), my bro and sis didn't play games like Tactics II, Panzer Leader and such like so we spent more time playing Risk and Stratego with a large amount of time playing Monopoly. It's better than sitting around in front of the 'idiot box' and gives us parents a chance to spend time with our children (or siblings). I agree tho it's not the greatest for interaction and it's more about luck than strategy although there are some elements on which you touched on. I think that it may be the same for most of the others posting it here. I guess what I'm trying to point out is that 'Rubbish' is really a little harsh reveiw of one of the most popular and long lived of board games in the history of gaming.

Just my 2 pennies. FWIW

[Ravven Demonwing]

Mayve I don't really know the hatred of Monopoly because my family hates it so much, and I really don't mind it. The mention of "Monopoly" in our household is just asking to be exorcised. I just haven't played in so long, and I guess that's why I don't hate it so zealously as others do.

[ej]

Mayve I don't really know the hatred of Monopoly because my family hates it so much, and I really don't mind it. The mention of "Monopoly" in our household is just asking to be exorcised. I just haven't played in so long, and I guess that's why I don't hate it so zealously as others do.

Thanks okay. I hate it enough for both of us.

[Ravven Demonwing]

thanks ej, that's why I know you care so much.

[Firemaster]

A couple of days ago I entered a Heroscape tournament. I got fourth place and picked up Stratego as my prize. Now that I've started playing it, it has risen to be one of my favorite games. So, not counting Heroscape, my current top 3 games are:

Stratego
Settlers of Catan
Risk

I've mostly played video/computer games, but after playing Stratego, I've realized I need many more board games (and not just the 'mainstream' games like Monopoly). So, I'm planning on greatly expanding my collection. The ones I've got my eyes on, by familiarity or reviews are:

Carcassone
Settlers of Catan (Only played online so far)
Munchkin
Dungeon Twister
Duel of Ages

Any others that I should consider 'must-haves'?

[toddrew]

Any others that I should consider 'must-haves'?

BattleLore :D

[Trav11111]

1. Monopoly
2. Heroscape
3. Yatzee

Monopoly wins, cause one summer, before heroscape, my friends and I started playing it by the rules and got hooked.

[norseman1066]

A couple of days ago I entered a Heroscape tournament. I got fourth place and picked up Stratego as my prize. Now that I've started playing it, it has risen to be one of my favorite games. So, not counting Heroscape, my current top 3 games are:

Stratego
Settlers of Catan
Risk

I've mostly played video/computer games, but after playing Stratego, I've realized I need many more board games (and not just the 'mainstream' games like Monopoly). So, I'm planning on greatly expanding my collection. The ones I've got my eyes on, by familiarity or reviews are:

Carcassone
Settlers of Catan (Only played online so far)
Munchkin
Dungeon Twister
Duel of Ages

Any others that I should consider 'must-haves'?

Hello Again, Haven't seen you 'round much. TABSCon is this sat Sept 29th if you are interested in getting some HeroScape in post to the thread or check out the thread in Events. Back to the topic at hand. If you liked Stratego then I'd suggest Stratego Legends as a must have. It's a twist on Stratego as the units all have special abilities and the boards have different terrain. I'd also suggest Checking out something like BattleLore for a Medieval/Fantasy Card Driven Wargame or Memior'44 for a WW II Card Driven Wargame. If you like them then you can get into a wide variety of 'Hex and Counter' Wargames or even 'Block' games (Quebec 1759, War of 1812, Crusader Rex, Wizard Kings etc.) What era of history or Fantasy are you into will determin which games will appeal to you. I personally just picked up a copy of Blokus Trigon and my family loves it. We play it quite often right now (almost every other nite 8) ) It's a Puzzle type/screw your neighbour game. At the TABSCon you'll find all types of Euro/Hex&Counter Wargames/Block Wargames/Ameri Games/ 3D Games like HeroScape and a home brew Called 'Treasure Quest' which is like D&D. One of the Guys that is registered with TABS has been working on the Rules and playtesting them with volunteers at the Monthly and Quarterly Cons. I strongly recommend you cheeck that one out. I'll be there with Stratego Legends among other games so if you'd like to check it out just come by.

Hope this helps
Thor

[Chuckrock]

Talisman
Apple to apples
setlers of catan

[Kepler]

As far as the Monopoly hatred, every game doen't need to be highly strategic/competitive/a chance to prove your superior intellect. Sometimes games can be a fun social experience with very little thinking involved (i.e. monopoly).

[ej]

As far as the Monopoly hatred, every game doen't need to be highly strategic/competitive/a chance to prove your superior intellect. Sometimes games can be a fun social experience with very little thinking involved (i.e. monopoly).

You're absolutely right.

And there are many other games that fit that description.

BURN MONOPOLY!

Just joking. YOU CAN HEAR THEIR SCREAMS AS THE FLAMES CONSUME EVERY HOUSE AND HOTEL!

[LilNewbie]

It's tough to limit to three since there are so many boardgames that are a blast to play and most of the time it's the players that make the game and the experience more enjoyable. Leaving Heroscape out since it's in the obvious 1st place slot:

1. Titan (Probably my first "heavier" game I played and the switch to tactical boards to fight combats was pure genious).
2. Advanced Civ (Long game but I have some great memories of game sessions).
3. Warhammer Quest (Probably one of the best dungeon crawls ever and I have a lot great memories of us deciding to take the longest route to civilization just because the hamlets, towns and cities were sometimes more dangerous than the dungeons :D ).

Runner-up: Samurai Swords (Shogun) (Great game and the secret planning of resource allocation (the koku) at the start of each turn meant anything could happen).
Runner-Runner-up: Last Night on Earth (Awesome cooperative Zombie game. Easy to learn rules and fantastic production quality.)

Newb.

[Trav11111]

It may not be smart to ask, but what's so bad about monopoly. There is strategy on where to build, who to trade or sell to, if you land on income you have to decide between 10% or $200, and if you want to get out of jail. Plus if you do play by the rules a game can take just an hour. I admit if your in it for pictures you will be dissapointed.

[netherspirit]

As far as the Monopoly hatred, every game doen't need to be highly strategic/competitive/a chance to prove your superior intellect. Sometimes games can be a fun social experience with very little thinking involved (i.e. monopoly).

I don't hate Monopoly because its not highly strategic/competitive/a chance to prove my superior intellect. I play games for the reason you mentioned up there, to have a fun.

I hate Monopoly because in my opinion its too monotonous and it takes way too long to play for what it is. Its not fun for me to play. Plain and simple.

[Trav11111]

As far as the Monopoly hatred, every game doen't need to be highly strategic/competitive/a chance to prove your superior intellect. Sometimes games can be a fun social experience with very little thinking involved (i.e. monopoly).

I don't hate Monopoly because its not highly strategic/competitive/a chance to prove my superior intellect. I play games for the reason you mentioned up there, to have a fun.

I hate Monopoly because in my opinion its too monotonous and it takes way too long to play for what it is. Its not fun for me to play. Plain and simple.

That I can except. I like the game because in the game you can talk about something other then the game itself. Heroscape you really need to focus on what is happening, but I like that too. I guess I just like to play many types of games because you never know who likes to play what.

[netherspirit]

I guess I just like to play many types of games because you never know who likes to play what.

I like to play lots of types of games too, and if someone came over and wanted to play Monopoly over one of the (almost) 100 other games that I have, I would kick him/her in the shin, because that's what playing Monopoly is equivalent too. Then we could play something more fun.

[royaldoy]

Anyone try Citadels by FFG? Holy crap is that game fun!!! Tried it out this weekend with four people playing. Lots of intrigue to the point of paranoia and a fit of the giggles. Highly recommend!!

[Jormi_Boced]

Anyone try Citadels by FFG? Holy crap is that game fun!!! Tried it out this weekend with four people playing. Lots of intrigue to the point of paranoia and a fit of the giggles. Highly recommend!!

Yeah, Citadels comes out a lot at my house. I love it because it scales so well from 2-9 with the Dark City expansion.

[Nukatha]

Not including HS:

1. Risk (any version)
2. Monopoly
3. Chess

Other games I like: Balderdash, Apples to Apples.

[royaldoy]

Anyone try Citadels by FFG? Holy crap is that game fun!!! Tried it out this weekend with four people playing. Lots of intrigue to the point of paranoia and a fit of the giggles. Highly recommend!!

Yeah, Citadels comes out a lot at my house. I love it because it scales so well from 2-9 with the Dark City expansion.

We've played 2, 3, and 4 player games. Can't wait to play with more people. We had fun whether we had 2,3 or 4 people.

[netherspirit]

I love playing Citadels with 2, my girlfriend is a tough player.

I've played with 7 and hated it. It makes the game drag on longer than it should with way too much down-time between turns. I think 4-5 is ideal any more than that is too many IMO.

[bad_calvin]

hmm.. My top 3 board games minus heroscape?

1: Axis & Allies
2: Last Night on Earth.. (I know it is new.. but I really really like it)
3: Starfarers of Catan

[ej]

Finally broke out LNoE yesterday. Zombies hate the living, apparently, as they won all three games.

So right now, my favorites include

LNoE
Ticket to Ride
... I don't know... too many to narrow down. Let's just put HS in there, and call it good.

HS, LNoE and Ticket to Ride. There. That's my list. Good for the next 10 minutes. Your Mileage May Vary.

[robopesant]

I like balderdash, apples to apples, and pictionary. But heroscape is the best gave ever!

[Elstree]

Finally broke out LNoE yesterday. Zombies hate the living, apparently, as they won all three games.

One of us...one of us...

Glad you finally got your copy!