Coming Around Again

The first example of such a game is ...

Read more...

This is a really good post, as usual.

I think one of the things you're bringing up here is learning mode vs. playing mode. Some games survive this switch and others don't, and I have no clear idea why. Some games are only good for a few games where you're discovering the game, but it feels discovered after a while. Other games enter a completely new game mode where it's about competing and gaining mastery once you learn...

A lot of times my first few plays before a break are the learning part... and I'm not sure if the game is going to come back up again and have a new life in the head to head mode.

Replay value is a high priority for me when deciding to purchase a game. I want a game that will offer variety of experiences over the course of numerous plays. Or at least offers some strategic depth or variable powers so I can try different strategies. So I am quick to drop a game after a few plays if the game feels scripted or samey or solved. The other type of game that I might set aside after limited play is a heavy, complex game that is difficult to get on the table due to the required commitment. I have avoided Scythe so far because it looks like a mediocre game that only became popular because of the distinctive artwork.

Thank you for everyone's comments. It's funny how some games can just be played over and over again without getting boring, while others have to be put away for a while to be a fresh experience. It's often not even about variability. It's interesting.