Valerie Putman:  Essen shopping list

Okay, the list of games that I want to look at when I’m at Spiel next weekend is too long to list.  In fact, it would cover about half of Eric’s pre-Essen spoiler, so just go look at that!  But I will mention the games I am most looking forward to seeing.

The Three Commandments (BeWitched) Last year at the Gathering of Friends I played a game from Friedemann that some referred to as “party zendo.” I was particularly interested in the game because it was a perfect game for me to use in the classroom. The game imitates the process necessary to develop superstitious behaviors—a concept that I teach in my Psychology of Learning and Motivation class.  In fact, with Friedemann’s permission, I’ve already used the concept of the game in a large format class exercise.  I’ve been dying for this one to come out.  But now the description of the game coming out from BeWitched indicates that Friedemann has melded his game idea with ideas from the Lamont brothers.  I’m very curious!!!

Le Havre (Lookout Games) I was smitten with Agricola when it came out.  Why wouldn’t this be on the top of my list of games to check out.

Cavum (QWG Games) A meaty, low luck game by Kramer & Kiesling?  Yes, please!  I can’t wait to see it. 

Diamonds Club (Ravensburger) I’m a Rudiger Dorn fan, so this is a must try.

Strozzi (Rio Grande Games) When I saw Dr. Knizia with Jay at Origins he teased that he had a good one that Jay was “sitting on.” Could this be it?  And yes, when Dr. Knizia teases, I swoon.

Dominion (Rio Grande Games) Okay, I know you must be groaning.  But seriously, this will be the first time I get to see the insert that we worked so hard on and the final cards and for the first time ever, my name on a box.  So yeah, I’m freakin flippin out about seeing this one done.  It’s funny—those of you staying home who pre-ordered the game might get to see it before me!

Imagination (Schmidt Spiele) I do really well at spatial rotation tasks and enjoy speed/puzzle games.  I have to check out this pattern matching game with mirrors(!).

Sylla (Ystari) I am an Ystari fan girl.  Like Alea five years ago, I’m willing to buy a new title before I even try it.  Let’s hope they keep the streak alive!

I look forward to reporting on these and more as soon as possible.  I’ll try to do a live report from the show next week, but you never know what internet access will be like.

I’d rather be gaming,
Valerie Putman

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