Codenames is a brilliant word-based party game that challenges players to give clever clues to help their team guess the right words on the board. It’s great for groups and guarantees hours of fun.
Players: 4-8+
Why it’s perfect for parties: Easy to learn, encourages teamwork, and sparks creativity.
This hilarious card game is a mix of strategy and absurdity. Avoid drawing the Exploding Kitten card while sabotaging your opponents with clever moves.
Players: 2-5 (expandable with expansions)
Why it’s perfect for parties: Quick rounds, ridiculous humour, and easy rules.
Known as the “party game for horrible people,” Cards Against Humanity is perfect for adults who love dark humour and outrageous laughs. Match questions with the funniest answers to win.
Players: 4-20+
Why it’s perfect for parties: Endless laughter and bold, unpredictable gameplay.
Telestrations is like a game of telephone but with drawing. Sketch a word or phrase and watch the hilarity unfold as interpretations evolve.
Players: 4-8 (or 12 with the party pack)
Why it’s perfect for parties: Hilarious results, no artistic skill required, and great for all ages.
From the creators of Exploding Kittens, this dodgeball-inspired card game is pure chaos. Collect matching sets of cards while dodging (or throwing) soft burrito plushies at your friends.
Players: 2-6
Why it’s perfect for parties: Active, silly, and guaranteed to get everyone moving.
Werewolf is a social deduction game where players take on secret roles as villagers or werewolves. Use your wits and persuasion skills to uncover the werewolves before they eliminate everyone.
Players: 5-75
Why it’s perfect for parties: Great for large groups, fosters interaction, and creates suspense.
This cooperative word-guessing game is simple yet incredibly engaging. Players give one-word clues to help their teammate guess a mystery word, but identical clues are eliminated, adding a strategic twist.
Players: 3-7
Why it’s perfect for parties: Quick, light-hearted, and encourages creative thinking.
Monikers is a modern take on the classic “charades” game. Players take turns giving clues to get their team to guess as many cards as possible over three increasingly challenging rounds.
Players: 4-16
Why it’s perfect for parties: Combines charades and trivia with tons of laughter.
Wavelength is a unique party game where players work together to find the “perfect spot” on a scale, such as “hot vs. cold” or “underrated vs. overrated.”
Players: 2-12
Why it’s perfect for parties: Engages everyone in lively debates and discussions.
No party is complete without a great game (or two). These 9 party games are perfect for breaking the ice, getting everyone involved, and creating unforgettable memories. The best part? You can find them all right now at Ozzie Collectables!
What’s your go-to party game? Let us know in the comments, or visit our store to stock up on the perfect games for your next gathering.
]]>Wingspan has taken the board gaming world by storm with its stunning art and engaging gameplay. This engine-building game lets players act as bird enthusiasts, attracting various species to their wildlife reserves. It’s a perfect blend of strategy and beauty.
Players: 1-5
Why it’s popular: Gorgeous components, relaxing gameplay, and educational value.
A modern classic, Catan continues to be a favourite among new and experienced players. Trade, build, and settle as you compete to dominate the island of Catan.
Players: 3-4 (expandable to 6)
Why it’s popular: Easy to learn, endlessly replayable, and a gateway game for many into modern board gaming.
For fans of cooperative strategy games, Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion offers a streamlined, story-driven adventure. It’s a smaller, more accessible version of the acclaimed Gloomhaven, perfect for those new to the series.
Players: 1-4
Why it’s popular: Deep storytelling, tactical combat, and cooperative gameplay.
This family-friendly game has been a staple of game nights for years and shows no signs of slowing down. Build train routes across iconic maps in this easy-to-learn but strategic game.
Players: 2-5
Why it’s popular: Simple rules, strategic depth, and a variety of expansions.
Cascadia has quickly become a favourite thanks to its elegant gameplay and nature-themed design. Players create habitats for animals while trying to achieve unique scoring goals.
Players: 1-4
Why it’s popular: Relaxing, puzzle-like gameplay with plenty of replayability.
Terraforming Mars is a heavyweight strategy game that challenges players to make the red planet habitable. Compete to develop infrastructure, manage resources, and complete ambitious projects.
Players: 1-5
Why it’s popular: Immersive theme, strategic depth, and a wide range of expansions.
Azul’s stunning tile-placement gameplay has earned it a spot on countless “best of” lists. Compete to create the most beautiful mosaic while balancing strategy and aesthetics.
Players: 2-4
Why it’s popular: Beautiful design, quick setup, and strategic simplicity.
In Ark Nova, players manage their own zoos by building enclosures, housing animals, and supporting conservation projects. This heavyweight strategy game has captured the hearts of gamers who enjoy detailed management systems.
Players: 1-4
Why it’s popular: Deep strategy, environmental theme, and satisfying gameplay.
A simplified version of the hit game 7 Wonders, Architects offers fast-paced, card-drafting fun. Build one of the seven wonders of the ancient world in this beginner-friendly yet strategic game.
Players: 2-7
Why it’s popular: Quick playtime, easy-to-learn mechanics, and vibrant components.
Dixit is a storytelling game where players use abstract, dreamlike cards to inspire creative and imaginative clues. It’s perfect for groups who enjoy a lighter, more artistic game experience.
Players: 3-6
Why it’s popular: Beautiful artwork, creative gameplay, and universal appeal.
These top 10 board games represent a wide range of genres, from family-friendly classics to strategic epics. Whether you’re new to board gaming or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s something here to suit your next game night.
At Ozzie Collectables, we’re proud to offer an incredible selection of the best board games available. Which of these games is your favourite? Let us know in the comments or visit us to explore our full range of titles!
]]>With origins dating back over 1,500 years, Chess remains one of the most popular and enduring games in history. Its deep strategy and timeless appeal have made it a favourite among casual players and competitive grandmasters alike.
Checkers is another ancient game that has stood the test of time. Easy to learn but challenging to master, it’s a staple in households worldwide.
Originally created in 1935, Monopoly has sold over 275 million copies globally. Its mix of strategy, luck, and cutthroat property trading has made it a family favourite for decades.
For lovers of words and language, Scrabble is the ultimate board game. With over 150 million copies sold, it’s a hit with both casual players and competitive wordsmiths.
First published in 1949, Clue is the classic whodunit game where players solve a murder mystery. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its engaging gameplay and iconic characters.
Catan revolutionised modern board gaming when it was released in 1995. With over 32 million copies sold, it’s a gateway game that introduced countless players to the world of strategy board games.
This classic strategy game of global domination has been a favourite since its release in 1957. Risk’s blend of strategy and chance keeps players coming back for more.
The Game of Life simulates life’s milestones, from college and careers to marriage and retirement. Its colourful spinner and engaging gameplay have made it a family classic since 1960.
A childhood favourite, Candy Land has introduced millions of young players to the joy of board gaming. Its simple rules and vibrant board make it a timeless hit.
For trivia lovers, Trivial Pursuit is the ultimate test of knowledge. Since its release in 1981, it has sold over 100 million copies and spawned countless themed editions.
Battleship’s origins date back to the early 20th century, but it became a household name with the release of its plastic pegboard version in the 1960s. It remains a favourite for its strategic gameplay.
This classic drawing-and-guessing game has been a party favourite since its release in 1985. It’s sold over 38 million copies and continues to spark creativity and laughter.
Technically a card game, Uno’s colourful gameplay and simple rules have made it a global phenomenon, selling over 150 million copies.
A modern classic, Ticket to Ride has sold over 10 million copies since its release in 2004. Its accessible gameplay and strategic depth have made it a favourite among families and gaming groups.
First released in 2008, Pandemic is a cooperative game where players work together to stop global outbreaks. Its innovative gameplay has made it one of the best-selling modern board games.
This simple but entertaining game of racing and strategy has been a family staple since its introduction in 1934.
With its quirky theme and steady-hand challenge, Operation has been delighting players since 1965. It’s sold millions of copies and remains a childhood favourite.
This tile-placement game, released in 2000, has sold over 12 million copies. Its simple mechanics and strategic depth make it a must-play for board game enthusiasts.
This two-player strategy game has been a hit since its release in 1974. Its straightforward gameplay and quick matches make it a timeless classic.
Jenga’s tower-building and toppling gameplay has made it a favourite at parties and family gatherings since its release in the 1980s. It’s sold over 90 million copies worldwide.
From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, these best-selling popular board games have brought joy to countless players around the world. Whether you’re a fan of strategy, trivia, or party games, there’s something on this list for everyone.
At Ozzie Collectables, we celebrate the enduring appeal of popular board games. Which of these classics is your favourite? Let us know in the comments, or visit our store to find your next game night hit!
]]>Unlock! is a cooperative card-based game series that recreates the excitement of an escape room. Players work together to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and progress through a storyline - all within a set time limit. Each deck of cards represents a unique adventure filled with hidden numbers, logic-based challenges, and clever riddles.
With multiple themed adventures to choose from, Unlock! provides a fresh and exciting experience every time you play.
Escape rooms can be expensive and require booking in advance, but with Unlock!, you can enjoy the same thrill anytime, anywhere. It's the perfect option for game nights, gatherings, or even solo play for those who love a challenge.
Whether you're a puzzle-solving pro or a beginner, Unlock! caters to all experience levels. The game offers different difficulty levels, so everyone can enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed.
One of the best things about Unlock! is its variety. Each set features a different theme, from sci-fi and fantasy to mystery and horror. Some popular scenarios include:
The Island of Doctor Goorse – A thrilling adventure on a mysterious island.
The Formula – A race against time to recover a dangerous chemical compound.
Squeek & Sausage – A wacky cartoon-style mission to stop an evil mastermind.
Unlike traditional board games, Unlock! requires minimal setup. All you need is the deck of cards and the free companion app, which provides hints, timers, and interactive elements to enhance the experience.
Unlock! is designed for cooperative play, making it a fantastic bonding experience for families, friends, or couples. However, if you're up for a challenge, you can also play solo and test your puzzle-solving skills.
At Ozzie Collectables, we stock a variety of Unlock! adventures, so you can bring the escape room experience to your home. Whether you’re new to the series or looking for the latest edition, we have you covered.
If you love puzzles, adventure, and immersive storytelling, Unlock! is the perfect game for you. With its engaging themes, challenging puzzles, and cooperative gameplay, it's an essential addition to any board game collection. Ready to test your wits? Grab an Unlock! game today and see if you have what it takes to escape!
Have you played Unlock! before? Share your favourite adventure in the comments below!
]]>In Quacks of Quedlinburg, players take on the role of quack doctors, brewing potions by drawing ingredients from a bag. The goal is to create the most valuable potion without causing it to explode! The game features a "push-your-luck" mechanic, meaning players must decide whether to keep drawing ingredients to maximise their score or play it safe to avoid disastrous consequences.
One of the biggest appeals of Quacks of Quedlinburg is its accessibility. The rules are straightforward, making it easy to pick up, yet the strategic depth keeps players coming back for more. With different ingredient books and expansion packs, no two games feel the same.
Australia has a strong board gaming culture, and Quacks of Quedlinburg is the ideal choice for game nights. It accommodates 2-4 players (or up to 5 with the expansion), making it a great option for both small and larger gatherings.
Unlike traditional board games that rely purely on dice rolls, Quacks of Quedlinburg introduces an element of bag-building strategy. Players must carefully choose which ingredients to buy and add to their bag, balancing risk and reward.
If you love the base game, the expansions The Herb Witches and The Alchemists add even more variety, new strategies, and additional players. These expansions keep the game fresh and engaging, making it a long-term investment for board game enthusiasts.
With various ingredient combinations, different strategies to explore, and the thrill of chance, Quacks of Quedlinburg offers high replayability. You'll never play the same game twice, keeping each session exciting and unpredictable.
At Ozzie Collectables, we stock Quacks of Quedlinburg along with its expansions, so you can dive into this fantastic game and experience the magic for yourself. Whether you're purchasing it for your collection or as a gift for a fellow board game lover, this game is a guaranteed hit.
The Quacks of Quedlinburg is a must-have board game for Australians who love a mix of strategy, luck, and engaging gameplay. Perfect for family nights, friendly competitions, and anyone who enjoys a little risk-taking fun, this game is sure to be a staple in your collection.
Are you a Quacks of Quedlinburg fan? Share your favourite ingredient strategies in the comments below!
]]>A classic in any party setting, Cards Against Humanity is the ultimate game for those with a dark sense of humour. Players complete sentences with outrageous and often inappropriate responses, making for some hilarious and shocking combinations.
If you love interactive games, Jackbox Party Pack is a must-have. With a variety of games from trivia to drawing challenges, all you need is a screen and some smartphones to get the fun started.
For fans of internet culture, What Do You Meme? lets players create the funniest meme combinations using caption and image cards. It’s the perfect game for social media lovers and those who enjoy a good laugh.
A fast-paced game of deception and strategy, Coup has players bluffing their way to victory while trying to eliminate their opponents. If you enjoy the political intrigue of Secret Hitler, this one’s for you.
A raunchy twist on the classic drawing and guessing game, Telestrations After Dark is all about miscommunication and hilarious interpretations. Expect plenty of laughter as your drawings spiral into chaos.
A more mature version of the beloved Exploding Kittens, this edition brings the same unpredictable fun with a dose of adult humour. It’s perfect for those who enjoy quirky card games with a bit of mischief.
Like Secret Hitler, The Resistance is a game of hidden roles and social deduction. Players must work together while secretly trying to uncover the spies among them. It’s an intense and thrilling game of trust and betrayal.
A game that will have you calling out your friends, Drunk Stoned or Stupid prompts players to decide who in the group is most likely to do something ridiculous. A great choice for those who love light-hearted roasting.
A hilarious guessing game where players give clues to get their teammates to guess names on their cards. The rounds get harder as descriptions turn into charades and single-word hints.
In this game, players act as salespeople trying to pitch ridiculous products to a “customer.” With creative thinking and improvisation, Snake Oil delivers plenty of laughs.
Whether you love deception, wordplay, or just pure chaos, these games are sure to bring endless fun to your next party. From bluffing your way to victory in Coup to creating the most absurd memes in What Do You Meme?, there’s something here for every group.
What’s your go-to party game? Let us know in the comments!
]]>
To help you pick the perfect game for your next gathering, here’s our list of the top 10 board games in Australia for family game night.
A true modern classic, Catan (formerly The Settlers of Catan) is a game of strategy, trading, and resource management. Players collect and trade resources to build roads, settlements, and cities, aiming to be the first to reach 10 victory points. It’s the perfect mix of luck and skill, making it a favourite for families who love a challenge.
Easy to learn and incredibly engaging, Ticket to Ride takes players on a cross-country adventure where they must claim railway routes across a map. With different editions featuring maps of the USA, Europe, and even Asia, this game is great for travel lovers and budding strategists alike.
A family game night staple, Uno is a fast-paced card game filled with twists and turns. The goal is simple—get rid of all your cards before your opponents, but with wild cards, reversals, and +4s in play, anything can happen!
For families who love quick reflex games, Dobble (known as Spot It! in some regions) is a must-have. This fast-paced matching game is easy to learn but keeps everyone on their toes, making it perfect for players of all ages.
A classic that needs no introduction, Monopoly has been entertaining families for generations. The Australian edition features iconic locations from Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef, adding a local touch to the world-famous property-trading game.
This hilarious and unpredictable card game has become a modern favourite. Players take turns drawing cards, hoping to avoid the dreaded Exploding Kitten. With quirky artwork and laugh-out-loud gameplay, it’s a hit with families who enjoy a bit of chaos.
A mix of a card game and dodgeball, Throw Throw Burrito is pure fun and chaos. Players collect matching sets of cards while also dodging (or throwing) soft foam burritos at each other. It’s a fantastic choice for active families looking for something beyond the typical board game experience.
A timeless classic, Scrabble is perfect for word lovers and competitive families. Players score points by forming words on a grid, testing both vocabulary and strategy. The game is a great way to keep kids learning while still having fun.
For those who love beautiful, visually striking games, Azul is a masterpiece. Players take turns selecting coloured tiles to create stunning mosaic patterns while competing for the highest score. It’s a relaxing yet strategic game that appeals to all ages.
No family game night is complete without a bit of drawing and guessing! Pictionary is a hilarious party game where players sketch out words while their teammates attempt to guess them. Whether you’re an artist or can barely draw a stick figure, it’s always a blast.
Whether you're after strategy, excitement, or just good old-fashioned family fun, these top 10 board games are sure to make your game nights unforgettable. From trading resources in Catan to dodging flying burritos, there's a game for every type of family.
What’s your favourite board game for family night? Let us know in the comments!
]]>Why Board Games Are Making a Comeback
In the digital age, it might seem surprising that board games are thriving more than ever. But there's something special about gathering around a table, rolling dice, and sharing laughter (or the occasional competitive glare). Board games offer a screen-free way to connect with loved ones, exercise your brain, and discover new worlds through gameplay.
Ozzie Collectables has taken the guesswork out of finding the perfect game by compiling a list of the top 50 titles that have captured the hearts of players everywhere. From Board Game Geek's Hotness list, best-sellers from party games, strategy games, card games, tabletop games and more, and everything in between, here's a glimpse into what makes our collection so exceptional.
Highlights of the Collection
1. Timeless Favourites
Monopoly: The iconic game of property trading that has been a family staple for generations.
Scrabble: A wordsmith’s dream and a great way to flex your vocabulary skills.
Risk: Strategise your way to world domination in this classic war game.
2. Fantasy Adventures
Gloomhaven: Dive into an epic tale of strategy and exploration.
Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Board Games: Perfect for fans of the tabletop RPG classic.
Ticket to Ride: Embark on a railway adventure across iconic maps.
3. Family-Friendly Fun
Catan: Build settlements and trade resources in this endlessly engaging game.
Carcassonne: Create sprawling landscapes and claim your territory.
Exploding Kittens: A hilariously chaotic card game for all ages.
4. Party Games
Codenames: Work as a team to decipher clues in this fast-paced word game.
Cards Against Humanity: A cheeky game that’s perfect for an adults-only gathering.
Just One: A cooperative guessing game that’s perfect for groups.
5. Modern Masterpieces
Wingspan: A beautifully designed game celebrating birdwatching and conservation.
Terraforming Mars: Take on the challenge of making the Red Planet habitable.
Azul: A visually stunning tile-laying game that’s as fun as it is strategic.
Why Choose Ozzie Collectables?
At Ozzie Collectables, we’re passionate about bringing you the very best in collectables and gaming. Our Top 50 Board Games Collection has been carefully curated to include:
Explore the Full Collection
Ready to discover your next favourite game? Head over to Ozzie Collectables and explore our full Top 50 Board Games Collection. Whether you're after a nostalgic classic, a family-friendly adventure, or a modern masterpiece, we've got something for everyone.
Don’t forget to check out our exclusive deals and limited-edition offerings. But hurry - these games are as popular as they are timeless, and they’re flying off the shelves!
Conclusion
Board games bring people together, challenge our minds, and create lasting memories. With the Ozzie Collectables Top 50 Board Games Collection, you can find the perfect game for any occasion or audience. Start your journey today and make every game night one to remember!
]]>1. Far Cry - Escape from Rook Islands: Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of the Far Cry video game series with this board game adaptation. Navigate the Rook Islands, face challenges, and outsmart opponents in a game that captures the essence of the beloved franchise.
2. Open Season: Embark on a woodland adventure with Open Season, a family-friendly board game that combines strategy and fun. Navigate the forest, encounter quirky characters, and aim for victory in this delightful gaming experience.
3. Fromage: Say cheese and indulge in the world of Fromage, a board game that brings the art of cheese-making to your tabletop. Compete to craft the finest cheeses and become the ultimate cheesemonger in this entertaining and delicious game.
4. Monopoly - One Piece Edition: Set sail for the Grand Line with the Monopoly - One Piece Edition. Join Luffy and his crew as you buy, trade, and dominate the seas in this exciting adaptation of the classic Monopoly game.
5. Loopin' Louie: Get ready for a high-flying frenzy with Loopin' Louie. Perfect for family game nights, this fast-paced and hilarious game challenges players to protect their chickens from the unpredictable Loopin' Louie.
6. Monopoly: Iron Maiden: Rock and roll into a Monopoly experience like no other with the Iron Maiden Edition. Build your empire as you journey through the band's iconic albums and artwork in this unique and collectible version of the classic game.
7. Dune Imperium Rise of Ix: Dive into the rich universe of Dune with the Imperium Rise of Ix expansion. Expand your strategies, forge alliances, and navigate the intricate political landscape in this captivating addition to the Dune Imperium series.
8. Back To The Future - Back in Time Strategy Game: Channel your inner Doc Brown and Marty McFly in the Back to the Future - Back in Time Strategy Game. Race against time, solve temporal puzzles, and relive iconic moments from the classic film trilogy.
9. Cluedo - The Nightmare Before Christmas Edition: Enter the spooky world of Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas with a Cluedo edition that adds a haunting twist to the classic murder mystery game. Solve the puzzle and unravel the secrets of Halloween Town.
10. Catan Seafarers: Set sail for uncharted territories with Catan Seafarers. Expand your settlements across the seas, discover new islands, and trade resources in this expansion that adds depth and excitement to the classic Catan experience.
11. Zombicide 2nd Edition: Brace yourself for a new wave of zombie mayhem with Zombicide 2nd Edition. Cooperative gameplay, intense missions, and an upgraded rule set make this edition a must-have for fans of the zombie survival genre.
As you venture into the world of board gaming in 2024, these top 10 picks promise not only strategic challenges but also a wealth of thematic adventures and laughter-filled moments. Whether you're exploring the Rook Islands or solving mysteries in Halloween Town, these board games are sure to become cherished additions to your collection, creating unforgettable gaming experiences with friends and family.
]]>Get ready to elevate your Christmas party with an exciting array of top board games that promise to infuse your holiday gatherings with laughter, friendly competition, and memorable moments. From classic favourites to modern gems, these board games are sure to captivate players of all ages and create an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie, making your Christmas celebrations even more special and unforgettable.
Catan: Trade, Build, Settle: Engage in a strategic and immersive game of Catan, where players trade resources, build settlements, and vie for dominance in this timeless classic that guarantees hours of fun and intense yet friendly competition.
Ticket to Ride: Cross-Country Adventures: Embark on a cross-country adventure with Ticket to Ride, where players compete to build railway routes and connect cities across the map, fostering excitement and strategic decision-making in a fast-paced and engaging gameplay experience.
Codenames: Crack the Code: Test your communication and deduction skills with Codenames, a thrilling word-based game that challenges players to give and interpret one-word clues to uncover hidden agents and complete secret missions, creating an atmosphere of suspense and teamwork at your Christmas party.
Pandemic: Save Humanity from Disease: Collaborate with your fellow players in Pandemic, where teamwork and strategic planning are essential to containing and eradicating deadly diseases that threaten to spread across the globe, fostering a sense of urgency and camaraderie in the fight for human survival.
Azul: Master the Art of Mosaic Tiling: Immerse yourself in the world of intricate mosaic tiling with Azul, a visually stunning game that challenges players to craft elaborate patterns and designs, fostering a sense of artistic expression and friendly rivalry as you compete to create the most dazzling masterpiece.
Splendor: Rise to Wealth and Prestige: Ascend the ranks of wealth and prestige in Splendor, where players navigate the world of gem trading and merchant development, strategizing to acquire resources and build an empire that exudes opulence and grandeur, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to your Christmas festivities.
Carcassonne: Build the Perfect Landscape: Create a picturesque landscape with Carcassonne, where players lay tiles to construct medieval cities, roads, and fields, cultivating a sense of artistic vision and strategic planning as you compete to build the most impressive and sprawling landscape during your Christmas party.
7 Wonders: Construct Civilization Wonders: Experience the marvels of ancient civilizations with 7 Wonders, where players compete to build monumental structures and advance their societies, fostering a sense of wonder and discovery as you navigate the complexities of history and culture in a thrilling and engaging gameplay experience.
Scrabble: Wordplay and Vocabulary Mastery: Showcase your linguistic prowess with Scrabble, the classic word game that challenges players to form words and score points using letter tiles, fostering an atmosphere of intellectual stimulation and friendly competition that highlights the beauty and power of language during your Christmas gathering.
Risk: Conquer the World: Engage in a high-stakes game of world domination with Risk, where players strategize, negotiate, and deploy armies to conquer territories and emerge victorious in a game that epitomizes the thrill of conquest and the spirit of competition, adding an exhilarating and dynamic element to your Christmas party.
Fear not, reader. At one point, I was just like you. Following the success of shows like Stranger Things in 2016, the pop culture world saw a resurgence in popularity for RPGs, and perhaps none so drastically as the Dungeons & Dragons community. People knew they dug the concept, but other than the made-up version of the game utilised by the show (which takes just a few liberties to keep things plot-friendly), getting into the game itself seemed daunting.
Of course, it's not just the Netflix screen that gave your average person a starting point for RPGs. I know I'm not alone in saying that I already had somewhat of a good idea of how it worked. As the eldest child of a self-identified geek, my dad already had a few things to say about his own experience with table top gaming in his teens. Back then, you might be hard-pressed to find a supportive community of gamers who weren't also moonlighting as locker fodder for bullies. Movies will certainly have us believe that interests centring around fantasy worlds were looked down upon. Times certainly are a' changin'. Now, instead of a slightly underground, niche community of 'geek' hobbies, we're pleased to see that gaming in any form is more popular than ever, with geek subculture on the rise and popular culture more, well, popular than ever before!
This also means that there is a whole host of information available at our fingertips. Rather than having to ask a guy who knows a guy who knows another guy with a personal collection of long, dusty print books, getting started with a new hobby is as simple as a two-second Google search.
So, without further ado, read on to discover 4 steps you can use to start your journey into the world of Dungeons & Dragons today!
1. Get Researching
You know in Buffy, how the characters always seemed to spend hours holed up in the library, pouring over ancient texts for a scrap of information on whatever monster of the week they were about to battle? This is totally nothing like that.
I know you're no stranger to search engines. There are a gazillion resources out there designed to help beginners with their D&D journey, and even more than a few apps designed to make it easier than ever. You can read up on game rules, character ideas, and even find online generators for things like stats and dice rolls. Technically, you can play an entire game without a single prop or book, and you can do it all remotely. The nightmare that was 2020 certainly reminds us that this can be a good thing.
Once you're done scouring the web for the how-to side of things, don't be a stranger to videos and podcasts. YouTube is a great starting point for informative videos that won't make you feel like you've been staring at a wall of text for approximately eternity, and podcasts are a great way to listen to your favourite influencers, comedians, and RPG gamers try their hands at their own campaigns. Some popular D&D groups right now include Critical Role and The Adventure Zone. These are especially great for beginners, as you can chuck on an episode while driving to work, cleaning the house, or falling asleep. Listening gives you entertainment while providing your mind with an opportunity to absorb how-to-play info, too. It's a win-win!
2. Stock Up
...Yeeeaaah, I know what I just said about playing remotely, but... come on. You know it'll be more fun this way!
You can find a tonne of helpful books, starter kits, miniature figures, dice sets, accessories and more on reputable sites like Ozzie Collectables. (Wink wink, nudge nudge.)
Sure, you don't need all this stuff to play, but trust me when I say you'll thank me later; when you're in the middle of battling that high-level villain and the rest of your party is down to 1HP each, you'll be glad you stocked up on all those spell guides, with a hand-painted miniature figure representing your brave fighter character standing tall (er, a few inches tall, at least) on the board in front of you.
And owning your own set of lucky dice to help you role a nat 20 every time? Priceless.
3. Create your Character
So, who are you playing as? A human? Elf? Dwarf? And class? Bard, cleric? There are tonnes of combinations and ideas out there for your character, so get drafting! Once you're done with the basics, figure out your stats, and start envisioning your character's physical appearance. Don't forget to name them, too!
Something I always recommend for first timers is drawing their character, too. Even if you're not the best artist, it can help to get your creative juices flowing and bring your OC to life on the page. Plus, once you're done adding all your personal touches, it'll feel that much more rewarding to take your new character on an adventure. (And give you that much more motivation to keep them alive!)
4. Get Connected
The thing about D&D is that it's not really something you can do alone. I know, I know. A game popular with nerds and introverts, and I'm telling you you've gotta go out and make friends?!
The thing is, geek subculture is more social than ever. It's a great way to connect with people who are just like you, finding your tribe without totally abandoning your comfort zone. You can get started by visiting community pages on sites such as Facebook or Instagram, or else asking around at your local universities and hobby shops for information on tournaments and club nights. Even just in Melbourne you're sure to find a plethora of groups hosting game nights and events where you can meet up and connect with other players, dungeon masters, and experts. Once you find a group of people you're comfortable with, you can even make game night a regular thing, giving you plenty of time in between to stock up on strategies!
Not super social? I get it. Another idea, if you're just getting started, is to start your own D&D group. Know a few creative friends who'd be willing to learn the basics and kill a few hours together? Try volunteering the most creative or outgoing person as your DM, or switching it up with smaller campaigns and mini-adventures until you get a feel for what your group likes best. If you're all starting out together, don't worry so much about getting it perfect - like anything, RPG gaming is a learning experience!
Bonus Step 5!
Most importantly, don't forget to have fun! I know it can seem a little cliched, but with a game as complex as Dungeons & Dragons, sometimes you really can forget that it's just that: a game. Make sure to take some time to relax and find some real enjoyment in the creative, exciting fantasy world of Dungeons and Dragons!
What did you think of our list? Have you played much D&D, or are you just starting out? Leave us a comment below!
]]>Monopoly
A classic, but sometimes, classics just can’t be beaten! There are a number of fun variations of the same old classic game available on Ozzie Collectables, for music lovers to comic book geeks. There’s something for everyone!
Catan
This one is popular for a reason. The official website boasts a simplistic game concept: you build roads and new settlements that eventually become cities. Will you succeed in gaining supremacy on Catan? There are plenty of starter kits and expansion packs to get you started, so why not try it out?
Ticket to Ride
With elegantly simple gameplay, Ticket to Ride can be learned in under 15 minutes. There are a number of different expansion packs for this game, too, so you can really be sure you’re immersing yourself in its simplistic yet bundles-of-fun gameplay.
Cluedo
This is another classic - with a twist. Try out the Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, or even Big Bang Theory versions of this famous whodunnit mystery board game. There are endless opportunities to avoid growing bored, so you’ll never run out of ways to play.
Funkoverse
This one has been receiving mixed reviews, but we’re strong believers in “don’t knock it ‘til you try it”. With deep, complex gameplay, tonnes of expansion packs, and a perfectly stylised Funko design, this is one game that deserved its game of the year nomination. Pick up a starter kit and try your hand at it today!
What did you think of our list? Which games have you been playing lately? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
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