Gaming Nirvana…

Once again I made the pilgrimage to Essen for one of the best analogue gaming conventions around.

This time I hitched a lift with Derek who was driving over and it certainly made a difference to not have to battle the various European public transport systems.

We went to our usual hotel and met up with many of the regulars including Marc who had flown in from Sweden.

The venue was busy and more areas were open to stalls which helped soak up some of the crowds. I didn’t go too mad while I was there and apart from I couple of gifts I got these for myself…

Escape from Colditz – a reissue of the original with both the old rules and a slightly modified new set and the production values are excellent. This is more of a nostalgia buy.

Karuba (with show expansion) – I good quick to learn, quick to play game that I had enjoyed playing last year and now decided to add to my collection.

Oh my Goods! – bought on the recommendation of a couple of respected gamers.

Kingdomino – new out this year and has good production values. Another easy to learn and play game for the family.

Goons of New York 1901 expansion – I really enjoy New York 1901 and this cute expansion along with the fancy painted figures adds to the game in a good way.

X-Wing miniatures – this was a birthday gift from Marc & Heather, thanks guys.

Istanbul coffee expansion – bought on a number of recommendations from friends and changes the game in an interesting way.

Snowblind, Race for the Pole – This is by Robert van Zyl, one of the guys I met at the convention who frequents some of the gaming sessions at the hotel. A nice guy and a good little game.

Thunderbirds: Tracy Island Expansion – the base game is a challenging co-op game and this adds a few more characters, vehicles, and cards to give more playability.