I'll start by being honest - I am usually the first to turn my nose up at abstract games. They are usually, in my opinion, lacking in theme, which is a big deal for me, or exterior player interaction (because you’re so caught up in the strategy of it that you forget there is another person at the table), but maybe that one’s just me.

Santorini, however, throws that out the window and has given me an abstract game that’s everything I’ve ever wanted, and more. It is my current game obsession, and the more I play it ,the more I want to play it. Oh, you want to hear more? Allow me to explain.

Howdy Sherlock-ian fans! If you're a good ol' lover of the beloved Sherlock novels, the fabulous movies, or just the stunning performance by Benedict Cumberbatch in the television series, then 221B Baker Street is a premium game choice for you. Becoming a master sleuth yourself is easy with this fun and simple game that can be played cooperatively OR competitively. "Two ways! That's crazy!!" I know right? So here's a little bit about the game (just to wet your whistle) and why I think it's pretty cool that you can play both ways.

So basically, and believe me this game is more basic than a white girl in leggings and Uggs drinking Starbucks pumpkin spice lattes, it's a roll and move game, SURPRISE! You make your way to different locations on the board to uncover clues to solve a mystery!! YAYYY!
Yes, seriously. That is actually the whole game. It's light, simple, and perfect for a family game night over a hardcore gamer's night in.

As you've probably learned from some of my other posts (feel free to reread if you haven't figured it out), I'm no stranger to hardcore, heavy board games. However, that's not to say that I'm a hater of simpler classics and other easy finds. In fact, one of my all time favorite games is Splendor, and I have to admit that it's pretty simple. Despite that, it's actually a lot of fun and makes for a good beginning game, filler game, or family game. Here's the lowdown.

In the game, you are playing as a merchant in the Renaissance looking to acquire gems and, eventually, gem mines, hoping to own the most prestigious ones in order to be the richest of them all! (i.e. have the most points). You are also trying to use your riches to impress the nobles, thus earning you even more prestige.

That title's no joke.  Fluxx is a simple, cute game that comes in dozens of different themes to appeal to everyone, BUT it can literally last a quick 5 minutes, or has the potential to go on for a few hours.  Oh, that still sounds interesting to you? Well then... let's continue!!