My Nickel & Dimes For 2008

Each year I keep a record of games played and at the end of the year note those games I've played at least 10 times (Dimes) and those played 5 or more times (Nickels).  So here is a quick overview of my 2008 gaming statistics.

Total games played - 270

Total different games played - 47

Month with most games played - November, 42

10's - 

Race for the Galaxy - 115  (42% of all games played this year!)

Dominion - 40

Agricola - 21

Hacienda - 12

5's - 

Attika - 8

Crokinole - 7

Kingsburg - 6

My favorite new game for 2008? The stats give a great indication. It would be hard for me to pick between Race for the Galaxy, Dominion, and Agricola. I know of no other year when I enjoyed so many new games. Add to those three games - Tinners' Trail. 

Race for the Galaxy and Dominion are both quick games, lasting under 30 minutes. Yet, they have the feel of a deeper game. Here is a rare achievement. I know of few games that give the impression of depth in such a short time - as Race and Dominion.

Agricola is unique in that 1) it can be played solitaire, 2) it is a complex game - not in mechanics, but in the myriads of choices available in a turn. This one is a sure classic. Unique - like no other I know of.

Thus - a great year with 3 great games and a very good one (Tinners' Trail).