Engine building games create deeply satisfying gameplay experiences that mimic real-life decision-making through resource management and strategic planning. We explore what makes these games so compelling and highlight some of our all-time favorites.
• Engine builders are games where you exchange resources to become more efficient at gathering resources
• Games typically start slow with limited actions, then accelerate as your engine develops
• Splendor represents one of the purest examples of engine building with its gem-collecting mechanics
• Terraforming Mars offers a rich thematic setting where blue cards create powerful ongoing effects
• Gizmos functions like "Splendor on steroids" with satisfying chain reactions and marble-drawing mechanics
• Seven Wonders combines drafting with engine building across three distinct ages
• Engine building games reflect real-life decision-making about investments and trade-offs
• Underwater Cities is touted as the "Terraforming Mars killer" with similar resource management concepts
• Engine building often combines with other mechanisms like deck building and tableau building
Tune in next month for our special Big Boy Game Night when Jerry visits Alabama for an epic gaming session!
See Wyatt Hendrickson's winning match here: https://youtu.be/IwfUPELy6HA?si=xM46-foPCMZHYjw8

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