Razzia!
February 15th, 2005We had a couple of Ness’ friends over last weekend. They played Settlers with us a while ago and enjoyed it so much they bought it. Ness has been talking about Razzia ever since we last played, so this seemed like another good time to bring it out.
Again we found it a taut, challenging experience and our guests (said they) enjoyed it too. The problem was that Ness and I crushed them. It was actually quite embarrassing. Maybe this is not such a non-gamer-friendly game.
I am starting to think that one the biggest requirements for success among non-gamers is that a game has to be fairly random, or at least give the impression of control without being too challenging. Settlers is a good example, in that it requires strategic and tactical thought, but has a serious dose of luck, especially in the early game. Ticket to Ride and Alhambra also fit in the same bracket.
February 21st, 2005 at 18:04
I agree that non-gamers need a little randomness in their games to ease them into Euros – it’s what they know from previous games, so it makes them feel semi comfortable. With my group at Nike Carc has been especially well received, as well as Alhambra, Ticket and Finstere Flure. At our session before going off for Christmas I tried New England, the first ‘heavier’ game I’ve tried, which was also well received. Generally I’ve stuck to the simpler end of the scale, and I can’t think of a game that has totally bombed.
February 22nd, 2005 at 16:13
You are much more sensible that me. I tried the boys out on Tigris and Euphrates and Modern Art far too soon.