TMI on Rating Board Games

A friend recently asked me how I would rate a new board game I received (Libertalia, Tier 2) and the following slowly evolved and my response became this sophisticated (maybe exhaustive) ranking system.

Obviously some games are better than others and for many of us the memories are one of the best parts of the experience. But I know you have struggled with describing the different quality levels of the games you’ve learned over the years, let this be your guide. (Dedicated to all the people that have made gaming so memorable throughout my life.)

Tier 1. Best games ever! I invest money in this type of game, or at least large amounts of time. Never or very rarely do I get tired of this level of games. Although, we may need to take extended breaks for “relational harmony.” Entire days or even weekends have been dedicated to games at this tier and I often level up in my nerdom when this happens. Many people do not understand this tier and thus it remains unspoken of except with like minded gamers. Games at this level include Settlers of Catan, Zombicide and Adventures in Middle Earth/D&D.

Tier 2. Amazing games. I really enjoy these games and they are even better in the right company. They are great for parties or in smaller settings with close or new friends. This level is suggested for new friends until it is established that their game-nerd-level is equal or equally passionate. Although I enjoy this tier, after playing a few times in one night or several times in a week I am ready to move on. Social media or like activities on a cell phone can be an appropriate escape if the game or company exceeds it’s time limit. Games in this tier include Ticket to Ride, Libertalia, Munchkin, and Bohnanza. I personally enjoy card games too and a few have reached this tier — Phase 10, Skipbo, Sheeps Head, etc.

Tier 3. These are games that may be fun a few times a year but I quickly reach my threshold of enjoyment. Many classic games fit here. Having a movie playing or outright cheating is a great way to distract from the monotony of these games. If games at this tier exceed their limit, groaning, man-fits, and frequent bathroom breaks may accompany the activity. Games in this tier include Dominion, Monopoly, Life, poker, other card games, and Yahtzee. Many party games also reside here such as Apples to Apples, Cranium, Mad Gab, etc.

Tier 4. I do not like these games. However, if I’m in the right mood or I’m accommodating others I may be convinced to play a tier 4 game. Sometimes a fork to the eye can really help ease the agony of tier 4 games. Games at this level include Risk, Scrabble, Head-bands, etc.

Tier 5. In a spirit of authenticity — I judge people for playing tier 5 games. Having wisdom teeth removed sans anesthetic is preferable. A marathon of Ann of Green Gables is preferable. Although I lack actually experience, a brazillian wax seems preferable. Games in this tier include Bananagrams — (vomit), Monopoly Jr. (and Risk should be at this tier but out of respect for some individuals I gave it the benefit of the doubt.)

Additionally, I want to acknowledge that nostalgia can play a huge part in board game ranking. And although a game’s actual level of quality may give it a lower ranking, nostalgia can bump it up. Yahtzee, Sorry, Clue and Canasta all hit home for me. Also, I want to reiterate how much I hate Bananagrams just in case you skimmed passed that part… It really is the worst.

Even though different games fit different tiers for different people, board games are a great way to build relationship, reduce stress and improve cognitive abilities.

Enjoy Responsibly.

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