In recent years, Kickstarter has become a haven for board game enthusiasts, offering a platform for innovative and exciting games to be funded and produced. With so many amazing projects to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. If you're looking for some inspiration, here are ten of the best Kickstarter board games that you need to play.
Board games have been a staple of social gatherings and family nights for decades. They offer a unique way to connect with others, challenge ourselves, and have fun. But with the rise of digital entertainment, many people thought that board games were a thing of the past. Luckily, the opposite has proven true. The board game industry has experienced a resurgence in recent years, with many new and exciting games being created.
One of the driving forces behind this resurgence is Kickstarter. The crowdfunding platform has given game designers and publishers the opportunity to bring their ideas to life, without the need for traditional funding. This has led to a proliferation of innovative and unique games that might not have been possible otherwise.
Understanding Kickstarter Board Games
Before we dive into the best Kickstarter board games, it's worth taking a moment to understand how the platform works. Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform that allows creators to raise funds for their projects by offering rewards to backers. In the case of board games, this typically means that backers can receive a copy of the game, exclusive content, or other perks in exchange for their support.
Kickstarter board games are often created by independent designers and publishers, who use the platform to fund their projects. This allows them to maintain creative control and produce games that might not be possible through traditional publishing channels.
Benefits of Kickstarter Board Games
So why are Kickstarter board games so popular? Here are a few reasons:
- Innovative gameplay: Kickstarter board games often feature unique and innovative mechanics that might not be possible through traditional publishing channels.
- Community engagement: Kickstarter campaigns often involve a high level of community engagement, with backers able to provide feedback and input on the game's design.
- Exclusive content: Kickstarter backers often receive exclusive content, such as bonus cards or special editions, that can enhance their gameplay experience.
- Supporting independent creators: By backing a Kickstarter board game, you're directly supporting independent designers and publishers, which can help to promote innovation and creativity in the industry.
Top 10 Kickstarter Board Games
Now that we've covered the basics of Kickstarter board games, let's take a look at ten of the best projects that you need to play.
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Gloomhaven: This cooperative game of exploration and combat has been hailed as one of the best board games of all time. Players work together to explore a fantasy world, battle monsters, and make decisions that impact the game world and their characters.
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Scythe: Set in an alternate history of the 1920s, Scythe is a game of area control and resource management. Players take on the role of different factions, competing to build structures, recruit units, and expand their territory.
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Pandemic Legacy: This cooperative game challenges players to work together to stop the spread of diseases and save the world. Each game builds on the previous one, with new challenges and story elements emerging as the game progresses.
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Blood Rage: In this strategic game of area control and resource management, players take on the role of different clans, competing to build structures, recruit units, and earn victory points.
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Terraforming Mars: Players take on the role of corporations working to terraform the planet Mars, making it habitable for human life. The game involves resource management, engine-building, and strategic planning.
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7th Continent: This solo or cooperative game challenges players to explore a mysterious continent, uncovering secrets and facing challenges along the way.
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The 7th Citadel: Players take on the role of heroes, exploring a fantasy world and battling monsters. The game features a unique modular board and a variety of characters and abilities.
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Near and Far: This cooperative game challenges players to work together to explore a fantasy world, battle monsters, and complete quests.
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Vast: The Crystal Caverns: Players take on the role of different characters, including a dragon, a knight, and a thief, each with their own unique abilities and goals.
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Mechs vs. Minions: This cooperative game challenges players to work together to battle an army of minions, using mechs to destroy enemy units and complete objectives.
How to Get Started with Kickstarter Board Games
If you're new to Kickstarter board games, getting started can seem overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Research different games: Look for games that align with your interests and playstyle.
- Read reviews and watch videos: Check out reviews and gameplay videos to get a better sense of each game.
- Join online communities: Join online forums and social media groups to connect with other board game enthusiasts and learn more about different games.
- Back a game: Once you've found a game that you're interested in, consider backing it on Kickstarter.
Conclusion
Kickstarter board games offer a unique and exciting way to experience the world of tabletop gaming. With innovative gameplay, community engagement, and exclusive content, these games are a must-play for any board game enthusiast. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just starting out, there's something on this list for everyone.
So why not take the plunge and back a Kickstarter board game today? You never know what amazing adventures await you.
What is Kickstarter?
+Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform that allows creators to raise funds for their projects by offering rewards to backers.
What are the benefits of Kickstarter board games?
+Kickstarter board games often feature innovative gameplay, community engagement, exclusive content, and support for independent creators.
How do I get started with Kickstarter board games?
+Research different games, read reviews and watch videos, join online communities, and back a game that interests you.