Board Game Buying Dilemmas: Shared Enjoyment or Regrettable Risk?

The Enigma of Board Games: To Buy or Not to Buy?

Ah, the age-old question in the board-gaming realm: should we buy a game without having played it, or should we only invest in games that we’re sure our significant other will enjoy? Well, dear readers, I am here to offer you some insights based on my own experiences, the opinions of others and some good-old-fashioned speculation.

So, let’s dive into this pool of uncertainty and perhaps answer two perplexing questions: how many people buy games without ever having played them, and how many people buy games hoping their significant other will enjoy them?

The Impulsive Gamble of Buying Board Games

We’ve all been there: you’re scrolling through the endless avalanche of options on your favorite online gaming store, or wandering the hallowed halls of your local gaming establishment, and there it is – that one game that catches your eye. It has great reviews, promising gameplay, and an intriguing theme that makes you believe you and your partner (or kids, or friends) might enjoy it. And so, with a deep breath and a click of a button or a swipe of the card, you’ve sealed the deal and bought it, never having played it before.

How many of us do this? Honestly, I’d say quite a few. Studies suggest that many board game enthusiasts dive headfirst into buying games based on reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, or just plain gut feeling. The thrill of getting a brand new, unexplored game can be addictive, leading to impulsive purchases and ever-growing collections.

The Hopeful Dilemma of Sharing the Joy

Now, let’s address question number two: how many of us buy games hoping that our significant others will enjoy them? Surveys indicate that many gamers do this, seeking to involve their partners in their hobby. However, this can be a tricky path to walk, because preferences in games may differ vastly between couples.

I recently found myself in this situation with Isle of Cats. After hearing positive reviews and considering its potential to be a hit for my wife and me, I took the plunge. And while this game did bring us some enjoyment, it also highlighted the fact that she didn’t enjoy other games I had purchased for us, such as Everdell and Flamecraft.

So, what does this tell us? It’s essential to be open and honest with your partner about their game preferences and offer opportunities to explore new games together.

The Art of Striking a Balance

As with most things in life, the key to successfully navigating the board game landscape is striking a balance. Here are some tips for doing just that:

• Make informed decisions: Research games before buying them, and take the time to watch playthrough videos or read reviews from gamers with similar tastes.

• Involve your partner: Consider your significant other’s preferences, ask for their input when selecting games, and be willing to compromise to ensure everyone is happy.

• Make a wish list: Create a list of games you and your partner would like to try, and prioritize them based on reviews, gameplay mechanisms, or themes.

• Try before you buy: If possible, play board games at a local gaming store, borrow from a friend, or play online versions to get a feel for the game before investing in it.

• Be willing to trade or sell games that don’t resonate: Sometimes, games just don’t click with you or your partner, and that’s okay. Be open to trading or selling these games to make room for more fitting additions to your collection.

The Risk (and Reward) of Buying Board Games

Ultimately, buying board games without having played them and hoping your significant other will enjoy them is a gamble. Sometimes, it pays off, and you discover a new shared favorite. Other times, it can fall flat, causing you to question your purchasing decisions.

But that’s the beauty of board gaming: it’s an ever-evolving landscape of discovery and experimentation, with countless options catering to every taste and preference. So keep exploring, making informed decisions, and involving your significant other in the journey, and you’ll undoubtedly uncover even more engaging and enjoyable gaming experiences ahead. And, who knows – maybe one day, we’ll crack the enigma of why some board games appeal to our partners while others don’t!