Splendor

Splendor is a game that I find myself coming back to again and again. It's a simple game to learn but has just enough strategy to keep it interesting. The goal of the game is to be the first to reach 15 prestige points by collecting gem mines, means of transportation, and shops.

What really drew me to Splendor was how easy it is to pick up and play. The rules are straightforward, and the game itself is relatively quick, usually taking about 30-40 minutes. I love that it's a great game for both beginners and experienced gamers.

One thing I really appreciate about Splendor is that it's not a cutthroat game. You can't directly attack your opponents, so it's more about strategic planning and observation. You're trying to anticipate what your opponents are going to do and get ahead of them.

The components are also high quality. The cards are sturdy and well-designed, and I love the feel of the gem tokens. They're much better than the cardboard chits that you would expect in most board games.

The game does have a few weaknesses, though. The theme feels a bit pasted on. It's really just a game of card development, and the Renaissance theme doesn't really add much to the gameplay. Also, the game can be a bit repetitive, especially if you play it a lot.

Overall, I highly recommend Splendor. It's a fun, quick, and easy-to-learn game that is perfect for families or groups of friends.