F#¢& Strategery

a few random thoughts on how to play designer board games.

1)  Play not to suck.  These games are complex, a lot of variables and conflicting strategies occur.  A lot of these are auction and draft based games, and the worst move you can make is failure to move at all.   I play with smart people, experienced at these games.  There is no shame in losing, so play not to suck and every once in a while things will align and you get the victory.

2) Find the void.  The best of these games have multiple ways to win.   Usually, one of the winning paths will have competition.  Avoid that path!  Unless you play exceptionally well or get really lucky, competing with your opponent for precisely the same resources means you will both lose.

3) Know the difference between strategy and tactics.  Strategy is the long term goal, or winning the game, campaign, or Ravens Loft Hockey League championship.  Tactics are the moves to get you there.   Good tactics will rarely overcome a bad strategy, you need to know how you are going to win.

4) Know that the game evolves while playing.  A typical game has you developing an economy and then spending those economic resources on victory points.   Spending for victory points too early loses the game, and economic development too late also loses the game.  The point during the game when you shift emphasis I call the 'turn', and that is usually the most critical decision you can make.

5) Do not, under any circumstances, be lured into offering Mike C. any advice whatsoever.  In all cases you will be blamed for steering him into an ill fated strategy (probably for your own benefit)

6) Always read Darren's Olympus/Automobile/ETC blog before any one at NF has ever played the game for the first time.  We will think less of you if you fumble through the first time playing a game.