BoardGameGeek: The Ultimate Hub for Tabletop Gamers
BoardGameGeek, or BGG as it's known to the dedicated, began as a modest forum in 2000 and has since become the pulse of the board gaming world. Founded by Scott Alden and Derk Solko, BGG has transformed over the years from a simple online gathering spot into an expansive, ever-growing library catalog of more than 125,000 games. BGG is where enthusiasts and designers alike share reviews, strategy insights, images, videos, and ratings, building a community-driven ranking system that spotlights the most-loved games.
A Convention and Awards Celebrating Community Favorites
Beyond the screen, BGG brings gamers together through events like BGG.CON, happening November 13th to 17th, is an annual convention launched in 2005 that offers an immersive experience dedicated to gameplay and connection. This gathering also features the Golden Geek Awards, which honor the best in board gaming as voted by the community, an event as anticipated as the games themselves. In addition to BGG.CON, there is now BGG@SEA. A series of board gaming cruises that combine the love of gaming with the adventure of travel. These cruises provide dedicated gaming spaces, a selection of games from the BGG library, and the opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts while exploring various destinations. For instance, BGG@SEA 2024 is set to sail the Mediterranean aboard the Oasis of the Seas, offering a unique blend of gaming and sightseeing.
A Resource for All Gamers
Whether you're a casual player seeking your next game night choice or a designer drawing inspiration from fan favorites, BGG’s extensive forums and databases make it a critical resource. It’s a haven for discovery, discussion, and community, a place where the lore of tabletop gaming is shared, celebrated, and continuously expanded.
Current Top Five Games on BGG (as of Oct 30, 2024)
Brass: Birmingham: An economic strategy game set during the Industrial Revolution in England, focusing on building industries and networks. Since its release in 2018, it has been highly regarded for its strategic depth and historical theme.
Pandemic Legacy: Season 1: A legacy-style game where players work together to combat global pandemics, with the game's story evolving over multiple sessions. Released in 2015, it quickly ascended the ranks and has remained a favorite due to its innovative mechanics and compelling storyline.
Gloomhaven: A cooperative dungeon-crawling game where players assume the roles of mercenaries exploring a dark world filled with challenges. Since its release in 2017, Gloomhaven has consistently maintained a top 3 position, reflecting its deep gameplay and engaging narrative.
Ark Nova: A strategic game where players design and manage a modern zoo, aiming to build enclosures, support conservation projects, and house diverse animal species. Released in 2021, it has been praised for its complex mechanics and engaging theme.
Twilight Imperium (Fourth Edition): A grand strategy game of galactic conquest, politics, and trade, known for its depth and play length. Released in 2017, it has been celebrated for its epic scope and immersive experience.
BGG isn’t just a website; it’s the keeper of the board gaming flame, celebrating the games that unite us and giving players a space to dive deep into the tabletop worlds they love.