We all have them — the game you bought with zero expectations that turned out to be incredible.
Mine is Chinatown. “It’s just negotiation, that’s the whole game.” I thought that sounded boring. Turns out pure negotiation, when the framework is designed this well, is one of the most engaging experiences at a table.
What’s your “I didn’t expect to love this” game?
Jaipur. Grabbed it for $15 at a con. Three years later it's my most-played game. My partner actually requests it.
Kemet. Thought it was just another dudes-on-a-map game. The power tile system is one of the most interesting tech trees in gaming.
Inis. Expected generic area control, got one of the most tense card-driven negotiation games ever. The art is stunning too.
Concordia. The box art is the most boring thing ever created. But the gameplay? Absolute perfection.
Blood Rage. I'm a euro gamer and I almost never play games with miniatures. But the drafting + area control combo got me immediately.
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