A lot of folks don’t like randomness in their games—whether it’s dice determining the resources players can get (Catan) or simply how cards are shuffled (Rummy), even the emotions among players in a social deduction game (Werewolf) making it feel a bit chaotic. There are a lot of gamers who prefer to have as much information and as much control as possible, some feeling as though any randomness ruins the experience, others simply enjoying working out a communal puzzle. And listen, to each their own! Certainly no judgment here on what folks enjoy.

I wonder, though, if we don’t like randomness because it makes us feel uncertain. And in a world of increasing uncertainty, does that feel uncomfortable? It’s easier to feel like we are in control, like we have everything we need, but that’s not a real thing. Even in a game where there’s perfect information, the other players are a rogue element—how will they play? Will they be aggressive or keep to themselves? Will their strategies mess with my perfectly laid-out one?

I don’t mind randomness too much—I love games like Yahtzee and Greed—but if I’ve spent a lot of energy to build something (like a monument in Tzolk’in), if it’s destroyed by a roll of the dice, that’s incredibly frustrating. And it’s frustrating out in the world as well where we just can’t predict when that metaphorical roll of the dice will happen. But that’s not a reason not to build things, it’s not a reason to avoid the game entirely, it’s reason to dive in deeper and keep swimming!

Alice C, board game librarian

Play Holi: Festival of Colors

In this visually stunning board game celebrating one of India’s most vibrant festivals, you will throw colored “gulaal” powder across the board earning points by covering the most spaces, splashing opponents with color, and collecting sweets. With multi-level movement, clever area control mechanics, and a theme inspired by the joyful Hindu festival, Holi is as engaging as it is beautiful.

Therasa L, board game librarian

Try our NEW Fish and Chips

Who doesn’t love a traditional beer-battered cod with fries and creamy tartar sauce? It’s crisp, it’s umami, oh, and it’s Lent! But you don’t have to observe that season to enjoy our fish and chips. Bring a friend, order a couple with a beer, and play a round of Holi!