This New Year, many gamers find themselves reflecting on their habits and aspirations for their hobby in the year to come. The practice of setting resolutions can be a powerful tool for taking your enjoyment of this beloved hobby to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a bit of a newbie, setting some goals can help you make the most of your gaming in our fast-paced world.
Why Resolutions?
Setting resolutions is a bit of fun, not many people stick to them and they're long forgotten by February, but for board gamers, resolutions can serve as a roadmap to navigate the vast landscape of games available today. Here are some key things to remember when you set your resolutions:
1. Focus on Enjoyment
Many gamers find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of new releases each year. By setting specific goals, you might want to focus on enjoying the games you already own rather than constantly seeking the next big title. This shift in perspective can lead to a more fulfilling relationship with your game collection.
2. Encouraging Social Interaction
Board games are inherently social activities. Resolutions can encourage you to invite friends and family to play more often, strengthening bonds and improving your mental health. Whether it’s hosting regular game nights or joining a local gaming group, the social aspect of gaming can be enhanced through intentional goals.
3. Improving Skills and Knowledge
Many gamers aspire to improve their skills or learn new strategies. Setting resolutions related to mastering specific games or exploring different genres can lead to a deeper understanding of the mechanics and nuances of certain games.
Achieving your gaming resolutions can provide a sense of accomplishment that extends beyond the tabletop. Whether it’s completing a challenging campaign or finally painting that miniature army, these achievements can boost your confidence and make you love board gaming even more.
Ideas for Board Game Resolutions
Let’s delve into some practical ideas that can inspire your own gaming goals for the year ahead.
1. Play More Often
One of the simplest yet most impactful resolutions is to commit to playing more games or games more often! This could mean setting a goal to play a certain number of games each month or dedicating a specific number of days to gaming. Consider the following:
- Schedule Game Nights: Block out time in your calendar for regular game nights with friends or family. Once a month is achievable and not too taxing on your other commitments and responsibilities.
- Join a Local Gaming Group: Engaging with a community can provide motivation and introduce you to new games. Search for a local group on google, facebook or reddit.
- Explore Solo Gaming: If you find it challenging to gather a group, consider solo board games that allow you to enjoy the hobby independently. The great thing about this is you aren't relying on others to get your gaming fix. Got a spare hour? Whip out that new game you bought and try the solo version. Check out our 1 player games here
2. Explore New Genres
If you tend to stick to familiar genres (guilty sci-fi strategy gamer here), challenge yourself to explore new ones. This broadens your gaming horizons and introduces you to fresh experiences. Here are some ideas:
- Try Co-operative Games: If you usually play competitive games, consider trying cooperative titles where players work together to achieve a common goal.
- Experiment with Party Games: These games often encourage laughter and social interaction, making them perfect for gatherings.
- Dive into Strategy Games: If you enjoy tactical gameplay, seek out complex strategy games that require critical thinking and planning.
3. Complete a Campaign
Many board games feature expansive campaigns that can take multiple sessions to complete. If you have any of these in your collection, make it a resolution to finish at least one this year. Here’s how to approach it:
- Set a Schedule: Break the campaign into manageable sessions and schedule regular playtimes.
- Involve Friends: Invite friends to join you on the journey, making it a shared experience.
- Document Your Progress: Keep a journal or blog to track your achievements and thoughts throughout the campaign.
4. Reduce Unplayed Games
It’s common for gamers to accumulate a collection of unplayed titles. This year, resolve to tackle that backlog. Consider these steps:
- Prioritise Your Collection: Identify games that excite you the most and focus on playing those first.
- Organise a Game Swap: Exchange unplayed games with friends to discover new titles while decluttering your collection.
- Set a Limit: Challenge yourself to play a certain number of unplayed games each month.
- Sell them: It's easier than ever to move your unwanted games on to a new home. Ebay, Facebook marketplace and conventions, there's always people wanting a bargain, especially if your games have sold out at game shops.
Engaging with the Community
Board gaming is not just about the games themselves; it’s also about the community that surrounds them. Here are some resolutions to enhance your engagement with fellow gamers.
1. Attend Gaming Events
Participating in local gaming events or conventions can be a fantastic way to meet new people and discover new games. Consider these tips:
- Research Local Events: Look for board game cafes, conventions, or tournaments in your area.
- Volunteer: Many events seek volunteers, providing a unique opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts while contributing to the community.
- Network: Use social media platforms to connect with other gamers and stay informed about upcoming events.
2. Join Online Communities
In addition to in-person events, online communities can offer valuable insights and connections. Here’s how to get involved:
- Participate in Forums: Engage in discussions on platforms like Reddit or dedicated board game forums like BoardGameGeek.
- Follow Influencers: Many board game content creators share reviews, tutorials, and gameplay videos that can enhance your understanding of the hobby.
- Share Your Experiences: Don’t hesitate to share your own gaming experiences and insights with the community.
3. Host Game Nights
Take the initiative to host your own game nights. This can be a great way to introduce friends to new games and strengthen your social circle. Here are some tips for successful hosting:
- Get a Diverse Game Selection: Offer a variety of games to cater to different tastes and skill levels.
- Create a Comfortable Atmosphere: Ensure your space is inviting and conducive to gaming, with ample seating and snacks.
- Encourage Participation: Foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable joining in.
Reflecting on Your Progress
As the year progresses, it’s essential to reflect on your resolutions and assess your progress. Here’s how to stay accountable:
1. Keep a Gaming Journal
Documenting your gaming experiences can provide valuable insights and help you track your progress. Consider the following:
- Record Your Sessions: Note the games you played, the outcomes, and any memorable moments.
- Reflect on Your Goals: Regularly review your resolutions and assess whether you’re on track to achieve them.
- Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge your successes, no matter how small, to maintain motivation.
2. Adjust Your Goals
As the year unfolds, you may find that some resolutions no longer resonate with you. It’s perfectly acceptable to adjust your goals to better align with your evolving interests, there might be a new hot game that your group wants to play every session. Here’s how you can switch things up throughout the year:
- Reassess Your Priorities: If a particular resolution feels overwhelming, consider scaling it back or replacing it with something more manageable.
- Stay Flexible: Embrace the idea that your gaming journey is fluid, and it’s okay to change course as needed.
Whilst it might seem crazy, setting board game resolutions can really increase the enjoyment you can get out of this beloved hobby. By focusing on specific goals, engaging with the community, and reflecting on your progress, you can create a more fulfilling gaming experience. As you embark on this journey, remember that the ultimate aim is to have fun and connect with others who share your passion. Here’s to a year filled with exciting games, memorable moments, and meaningful connections in the world of board gaming!
