Two of my favourite past-times (when I’m not gardening!) are books and games. Last week I covered books, and this week I’m delving into the worth of games, because board games, card games and outdoor games can be so much fun.
At our place we have a range of games from very quick to very long, from really hard to picturesque and gentle. Some can be played alone, in pairs or as a whole group.
For outdoor games I can’t rave enough about bocce! Simple to set up, small to store, needing just a little space to play. Croquet is also fun and easy to set up but needs a little more space. Sporty games like badminton, backyard cricket, t-ball and pickleball are fun if you have the room. Things like mini traffic cones, hula hoops and little beanbags are fun to make your own games with if your kids are little.
For inside games, the number of excellent co-operative ones continues to grow, and promotes bonding and teamwork. Our current favourite is Tranquility, where for fifteen quiet minutes you take turns placing gorgeous cards to achieve a common goal. Just what’s needed when life is a challenge and everyone’s nerves are frayed, and you need to wind down for a few minutes together.
If you’re playing competitive games, make sure it is a positive time even for the losers. We often find ways for everyone to win at games like Catan once the first person wins. Some very hilarious deals are done! It finishes the game off on a high for everyone. For games like Monopoly we invent extra rules that make everyone rich by providing an insane amount of chances for income. Hilarious!
Do a little looking before you buy. Our favourite go-to website is Board game geek, as they have short videos on playing the games. In that way you can see if the gameplay works for you. Beware of the recommendations, though: we have loved some games that have been rated poorly, and disliked others that are rated highly. It’s the gameplay itself that you’re looking at.
Card games are a good place to start: we especially like Quiddler, Five Crowns, Trains, and the Flux and Ecosystem series for starters. Boardgames we love that are easy to learn and play are Azul, Calico, Ticket to Ride, Space Base and Unearth.
Happy playing!
Joni Page 