Sometimes, the urge to geek out is overwhelming and nothing but a long board game session will scratch that itch. But what should you be playing?
That’s what we discuss here. This post runs through the board games you have to play for the ultimate geek fest. Here’s everything you need to know:
Android: Netrunner
Top of the list is Android: Netrunner. This card game sees players take the roles of hackers and corporations, combining strategy with cyberpunk storytelling. It’s an incredible choice for anyone who thinks the latter part of the 21st century is going to be just like Bladerunner.
Pandemic
Pandemic is another option. Unlike most board games, it’s cooperative. You have to work with other players to prevent global outbreaks from spreading, working closely with partners to adjust your response.
This game is particularly timely in the present environment. The world recently went through a serious pandemic. And due to animal agriculture, another one is probably lurking just around the corner.
Zombicide
Zombicide is a game for people who just love fighting off hordes of zombies. It involves collecting miniatures and then using heroes to battle incoming undead battalions using strategy and teamwork.
Zombicide is a bit like Warhammer in that sense. Games feel quite similar to zombie co-op PC titles, like Left 4 Dead, and some mobile action scrollers.
Dungeons and Dragons
Of course, no list of games for the ultimate geek fest is complete without mentioning the one and only Dungeons and Dragons. This card game is similar to Magic, The Gathering, offering a high level of complexity and numerous strategies to explore.
Many players get a personal set of DnD dice to bring good luck. You can also dress up in costume if there are particular monsters, heroes, or ghouls you like from the lore.
Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars is an option for geeks who love the idea of humanity colonising space. The idea is to build a habitable environment for the colonists travelling there, developing all the resources and infrastructure they need to construct a self-sustaining civilization.
As in real life, the game is surprisingly challenging. You can’t just plop down items and hope for the best. Real planning is necessary.
Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is a cooperative dungeon-crawling game that is ideal for LAN parties (or whatever the modern-day equivalent is). The game’s storyline is detailed and the combat is done well, keeping you interested for longer.
We’d recommend Gloomhaven to people who want to run through long campaigns with their friends. Playing this game, you could be at your PC for several hours until you get to the end.
Carcassonne
Another option is Carcassonne. This tile placement game gets its inspiration from Warcraft and Sim City. The idea is to place various roads, cities, and farms on a map in a mediaeval setting to create a community.
What’s nice about this game is that it appeals to casual and experienced gamers alike. Plus, you have to work closely with your friends to make progress.