Hi Ben - I could only find this thread to contact you! I believe you send us a tip this morning on PayPal and I wanted to find a way to reach out to say a huge thank you for your generosity!!!!!! It is overwhelming to us and your support means so much. Thank you for the kind contribution to our channel.
@@ThinkerThemer Haha, you tracked me down! You two are great and I just wanted to give you both a tip for the great job you all do and the hours of entertainment and information you have been providing me.
This channel is fantastic. It’s really making me consider how a game will feel and play for my wife (as well as me of course!), because I’m definitely someone that needs the theme to land and be relevant to what I’m doing on the board, but I’m discovering that my wife probably appreciates tight, pacey, fun mechanics more.
Thanks so much for the kind words Jack. We had no idea how many people would resonate with the " thinker / themer " premise. Glad it can help you identify what might make a game work for yourself or your wife. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment!
This is a fantastic list! I've been enjoying your videos and I love hearing both of your perspectives on games. Keep up the great work, Amy and Maggie!
Great list, girls, well done! It's the first video I watch from your channel and I immediately subscribed! It feels good to see more female power in gaming :)
I love your list, I was kind of expecting seeing Darwin's Journey, but you did have Trickerion, and all your choices make great sense, I do love your no. 1... "Would you care to join us for tea and crumpets?"
Oh thanks Axel! This video is from long before Darwin's Journey and probably does need a good update. We're spoiled for choice now with thematic euros! Thanks for watching
Great list :), for a thematic Vital Lacerda game I would've gone with Lisboa just because if feels like you are working towards rebuilding the city and everything feels integrated.
Eeeee I know! We've been thinking about this one. There's so many good ones to choose from now but the line is also blurry about what constitutes a euro. Hmmm 🤔🙂 thanks for putting it back on our radar and for supporting the channel!! We really appreciate it ❤️
Oh no. Looks like I have to go to my local game store and buy every last one of these. I now know I am a euro theme gamer. My wallet regrets that I saw this video and am now a subscriber.
Oh thank you so much! I haven't seen that one? Please drop the link if it is not too much trouble! Glad to have you here and thanks for taking the time to comment ☺
Oh your own video!!! Forgive me, I didn't realise that's what you meant. What a wonderful opportunity to sit down with Jamey. Thanks for sharing and happy new year! ☺
@@ThinkerThemer He was super generous with his time to sit down with us. You two make a pop out cameo when he mentions your channel. th-cam.com/video/3h1Xbs3IYYs/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=LegendaryTactics
What an excellent presentation; I'm hooked! Kinda sad that you give the nod to Caverna over Agricola, but hey, different strokes, right? Tickled that you like AFFO and Snowdonia, two relatively recent additions to my crew's rotation, and also Brass:B and GWT, two titles on my bucket list that I haven't pulled the trigger on yet. A little mystified by the love for Viticulture (too much luck of the draw for my taste), despite said love being understandable from the viewpoint of it being a decent gateway game. And I thank you for the alert to several titles I will now have to look into: the T titles. I've no idea (at this point) what all you've played/own, but since our tastes in games seem to be highly similar, I'll recommend a few to you to look into if you haven't already: Tzol'kin, Hansa Teutonica, Concordia, Village, Tigris &b Euphrates, Dominant Species (both OG and the new Marine), Egizia, Clans of Caledonia, and an ancient favorite, Caylus. What's your preferred player count, discounting the effect of the covid pandemic? Okay, time to go watch more of your videos. Keep up the fine work!
Hi Geoff! Thanks for watching and taking the time to write this! From your suggestions list we own about half - Tigris & Eupgrates is high on the list for games we would love to play! And we do seem to have similar taste (sorry but Viticulture has a lot of sentimental value!! 🥰) Precovid we always played at 4 generally. Since then we really had to learn to just play together - and now we've played much of our collection at 2. I think most of my favourite games shine at 4... but now I also value the quicker pace of a 2 player game but it depends on the game as often they lose a lot of tension at 2. How about you? Thanks for watching! ☺
@@ThinkerThemer Hiya back! I, too, prefer 4p games since that's the size of my current crew/gaming bubble. The competition feels more varied/interesting, and of course the social dynamic is more engaging. Not that 2p is bad; I took up the hobby as a wargamer back in the heyday of Avalon Hill and SPI, so head-to-head competition is fine by me, but I'm with you that many if not most modern strategy games seem to optimize at 4p. As it is, another buddy and I have beaten poor Agricola half to death at 2p with no significant loss of interest, at least on my part. Ah, well, I'm looking forward to the return to my local gaming cafe once the weather turns and we can play outside on their patio. Gotta get the Norwegian expansion for AFFO to the table... Cheers!
This older one plopped up in my feed 🙂 I do not agree with your choices but nice to see Brass in the list. My favorite game that none of my friends like. But where is Terraforming Mars?!? 🤔 Anyway, I think I will look into Snowdonia and Obsession 😁
@@ThinkerThemer I did buy the collectors edition of Snowdonia. It's a bit too short and simple for my group and too much setup for what it is. But we will try some expansions as well. Is there any expansion that you would recommend?
Great pick Richard! To be fair this list probably heavily leans towards competitive games because we don't play cooperative games very often. We have played Spirit Island though and do agree that it is thematic. ☺
Hey girls, great list. Ideas for future videos: top 10 games of all times.... top 10 two player games top 10 gateway games top 10 mid weight games top 10 heavy games For two players have you tried Watergate? It is super fun and you don't have to know anything about the watergate but it is a great tug of war game. Some of the top games on my list (in no particular order) that you have not already mentioned: Terra Forming Mars, Wingspan, Everdell, Maracaibo, Pandemic, Imaginarium, Coimbra, Parks, Tekhenu, Nemesis (very thematic - but I know you don't like space theme so much. You might want to try Mansions of Madness as I think it would be more your prefered theme), and recently added Endless Winter (playing on TTS). Looking forward to more videos :)
Great ideas! We know we need to get to some more top 10 lists... there's just too many games to review all of the time 😅 actually we really have only started playing 2 player during the pandemic. We haven't played Watergate but have heard great things. Did you check out Unforgiven on kickstarter? It looks like it will be another great 2 player game with a historical overlay... Appreciate you taking the time to comment as you watch our videos. Love hearing feedback and suggestions. ☺
It has always irked that "Ameritrash" games are automatically regarded as more thematic. As Amy relates, many times you are rolling dice to resolve which never feels thematically tied. In many ways, and as a fan of theme, I find a lot of "Ameritrash" games entirely unthematic. They seem to do a lot of the heavy lifting through flavour text and art. In digital games, the indie scene coined the term "dynamic meaning" in which mechanics alone and through the act of playing, does the narrative or theme come to the fore. And in boardgames, it is "Euro" games which best approach that ideal. I only wish that we had a higher fidelity of discourse in order for us to enthuse those ideals because at times, a mechanically thematic Euro seems a bit hit and miss; something like Newton, really missed its chance for a thematically tied game (a lot of the mechanics feel abstracted away from its university/learning setting to the extent of the game becoming almost narrative-less) whereas something like Lorenzo Il Magnifico is surprising with its mechanic ties to theme. Essentially, I wish designers and developers just had the cognizance that Euro's can be incredibly thematic through their mechanics as they sometimes, perhaps by mistake, hit upon. Improving the discourse around boardgames is a step towards that.
Thank you so much for this comment Hude, it was a pleasure to read. We love the way you describe the notion of a theme that is 'surface deep' rather than being intrinsically linked to the mechanics of the game. I (Amy) really struggle to see this sometimes, but Maggie is so amazing at realising this immediately (as it helps her comprehend the gameplay)... but once you can appreciate this element of a game, even though I'm not a themer, I do think it is a huge part of what makes a game stick with you. Again, thank you for taking the time to detail this comment... it is so nice for us to find like-minded people all over the world...
Love this video and I'm going to have to track down a copy of Obsession now. As a Brit (with animosity, ha) Birmingham is not Bir-ming-ham in Alabama it's Bur-min-gum in England 😉 check Peaky Blinders for pronunciation.
I'm big on theme! I liked a lot of your Top Ten (Obsession is one of my favorites!), but some were big misses for me when I played them. The totally inaccurate creation of rosé and champagne in Viticulture actually took me out of the experience when I played it the first time. It just made NO sense to me and completely broke the thematic spell for me; I didn't end up liking the game at all.
As far as ITR, I've gotten it a lot from Xia, Legends of a Drift System. I know space would be quiet, but I can't help but make Star Wars-esque spaceship sounds as I move across the board. Also, early on, Betrayal at House on the Hill was basically an RPG for a lot of my friends. We did voices and picked moves based on horror movie tropes over what might be for the best as far as winning the game.
Lol "I know space would be quiet" ... I've never thought about that before. Would it be quiet?? Space movies always seem so action packed and loud lol. We played Betrayal Legacy and can totally see how that would be thematic. We had creepy music going too that I had to turn off at once point because I got too scared... 😅 Thanks for watching this video and taking the time to comment Jenny!
For me: 10. Agricola 9. Clans of Caledonia 8. Eclipse 7. Castles of Mad King Ludwig 6. Great Western Trail 5. Terraforming Mars 4. Gaia Project 3. Brass: Birmingham 2. A Feast for Odin 1. Dominant Species Honorable Mentions: Tzolkin, Five Tribes, Anachrony
Really surprised that there were no Vital Lacerda games on your list. I could argue that at least CO2, On Mars, Lisboa, Vinhos and The Gallerist could easily be in top3 when it comes to a) having a theme and not just a setting, and b) having strong integration between mechanics and said theme. Considering the games you listed, you would probably enjoy The Transcontinental if you can get your hands on it. A euro game about building the transcontinental railway in Canada. A wild card option would be Tigris & Euphrates. It may seem abstract, but it actually tells really fascinating stories about rise and fall of civilisations.
Nice to see a top ten focusing on them in euro's. Just lovely! Just checked out your gig with Alex Radcliffe and went to subscribe to your channel. Great chemistry, but that's a no-brainer, but also in the give and take within the thinker themer look at it all. I'll be back, often!
I think I'd love Brass IF the theme was different. I just can't get past the historical facts that my role would be to cram people into Oliver Twist types of industries, destroying their lives as I pile up the riches. I just can't get over it. Give me a higher purpose and I would totally own such a game. Problem when I look up 'games like Brass' is I get more 'crush the poor' or venture capitalist game suggestions.
Brass is one of most loved games in general so Hurray that it's on the list. I would add Dominant Species and even if you have Caverna and FfO on the list I have to mention Fields of Arle. Praga Caput Regni is also a game where I get a thematic vibe. Other than that I think many Lacerda titles would make my list. Kanban, The Gallerist, On Mars,.... Finally I have to mention Rococo - it is a great game and the designers are in a board game group I use to go to if there is no nasty Corona around. In a similar theme Pret a Porter is also an interesting choice.
100% agree with your number 1! so many ridiculous ITR moments - I’ll be playing solo and just giggling like crazy because I set up the cutest date ever, or yelling out to my partner (who wouldn’t care) because I have to announce to someone that I pulled off hosting an incredibly prestigious dinner party... so much fun! a game I might have included would be Nusfjord, I think that’s quite thematic and lovely... also Summit the Board Game and the Lost Valley, but I’m not sure they are totally euros! thanks for the great list! 💕
Hahahaha so glad you love it as much as we do Kim.... a game that can bring so much joy and laughter is truly something special. We love Nusfjord (we recently reviewed this in a separate video) but haven't played Summit or the Lost Valley! I've not heard of the Lost Valley *looks up on bgg* - looks interesting!! And they are both mountain themed!! Thanks for taking the time to comment and the lovely feedback ☺
Have you ladies ever tried Teriforming Mars? I find it to be very thematic but the components may leave a bit lacking. Was it anywhere near your top 10?
This is a great video for me! Thank you so much! I believe I'm a themer, but if a game isn't any good and has terrible mechanics and rules then I don't want anything to do with it, no matter how much I love the theme.
U could easily join our game group, great list. It is the heavier games. Only number 5 and 1 has never been on the table. The rest come around each year.
The Pursuit of Happiness for me is peak of theme in a board game. Every action and choice and consequence is as if one is living real life. Check it out.
This is my favorite video of yours so far. In particular I like your overviews with how you each decompose theme and mechanics, or what Euro means to you. More of these sort of discussions, or discussing how particular games touch on each element of these breakdowns. Thanks for it!
Oh thank you so much for this lovely feedback, I just found this comment!! All of our game reviews are structured around an analysis of mechanics and theme... i hope you've been able to check some of those out! Thanks for watching and taking the time to write this! ☺
That was great (though yes very controversial about Brass I said that myself!) haha. I can't believe I didn't know about this video before, silly me. I guess the obvious suggestion is a top 10 Mechanic Marvels. Barrage gives me the ITR because when the water starts coming down the mountain I always say "Swooooooosh!".
@@ThinkerThemer LOL! Sure, I'll bring my hollowed out coconuts as I follow along, Monty Python-style. Geez I hope you know what I'm talking about rn. haha.
Hello from Israel. Thanks for an interesting, informative and fun video. BTW, I grew up in Melbourne, it’s a great city. I would like to see videos that present your current collection, favorite games etc. I love how you have designed your content based on theme and mechanics. The interaction between you on screen is great and fun to watch.
Hi Anita thank you and welcome to our channel, we are very happy to have you here. Thank you for taking the time to comment with this lovely feedback. Melbourne is a fabulous city and we can't wait to visit Israel one day (was almost there for Eurovision haha). We have been asked a lot about our collection and it is definitely something we have planned for early 2021... to talk about the games we own and love! We just keep getting distracted by new games 😅
I just watched your Pax Pamir video. Amazing game. But would it qualify as a Euro? It’s one of the most thematic games I’ve ever played, but I am not sure it is a Euro. Also, no love for Lisboa?
Yes!!! Pax Pamir is super thematic but we played it after making this list... although... it's probably not our favourite type of theme so not sure it would crack our top 10. If it was top 20 I think there'd also be more Lacerda games - the rule sets takeaway from the theme a little for us 🙃 too many good games!!
Great list. Viticulture is a favourite of mine. So what’s missing... the classic Caylus or its new version Caylus 1303 have the best take that of any Euro, via the Provost. Concordia is in my top 10 of all games let alone Euros. Is it a Euro? I think so, even though it is mechanically stripped down. Nations is a CIV but certainly a Euro by nature, It’s arguably the best CIV game under 4 hours. Castles of Burgundy is a classic ‘dice action’ Euro game, the dice are used as a Euro mechanism rather than an American-trash power/drama tool. Finally, without going too long, Eclispe is a superbly thematic space 4X Euro. Love to watch more of your very well thought out reviews. 👍 Happy new year.
Thanks Steve!! Actually we have never played Caylus... it seems like one that Maggie would get angry at me over. Lol. Eclipse is another one that we've never played and will look into. Thank you for taking the time to write this and watch our videos... and for the very lovely feedback. Happy New Year to you too and apologies for the delayed reply on this one I only just found it!
I expected heavier picks towards the top but I’m new to your channel and enjoyed a themer owning a euro list quite a bit. I gotta say: agricola>>caverna, you need to play robinson despite hating coops (trust me, it’s a euro feast) and seek out archipelago for a unique, thematic euro for both of you to enjoy.
Ah yes! I think if it was our actual top ten games it might be a bit heavier 😁 Maggie owns and loves Robinson Crusoe ! We haven't played archipelago though... will have to look into that one. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment! 😊
Have you ever played Village? This was the euro game that did worker death before Teotihuacan and for my money it's even more thematic as your workers literally make up multiple generations of your family and their occupation at time of death will determine if they are recorded in the village's book of records or if they're destined for an anonymous grave. Haven't tried the expansions yet but my impression is that they crank the thematic elements up even further. Just stumbled upon your channel yesterday by the way and really enjoying your review style, so thank you!
Very glad to have you here Jesse, welcome!! We have heard great things about Village but somehow haven't purchased a copy yet! So clever with the thematic use of workers. Thanks for taking the time to comment and for the lovely feedback 🥰
Love to see games that left your collection and why. Older games of your fav designers atm. I.e. Suchy’s games before Praga., or Feld games before Bonfire.
Yesss definitely need to get into our older games. If the industry could just stop publishing for a year or so that would be helpful for catching up hehehe 😅 thanks for the suggestions Norman and taking the time to comment 😊
@@ThinkerThemer Many people will be all too happy to tell you it's themeless, which is akin to saying LEGO is just plastic bricks. I wish you both great joy watching your civilisations rise and crumble (be sure to play it with 4P).
I LOVE this analogy... I'll have to use it on Maggie every time she tells me a game lacks theme lol. I'm curious to know what you think of Yellow and Yangtze?
Hi Amy & Maggie, I'm Leo from Brazil and dropped in your channel by the guys from "before you play" when they made video about other reviewers they like to watch, and you know what? I liked you guys, its cool that different approach you have one from another to analyze board games based in way you most enjoy playing it. In the end of this video you talk about a game of Vital that was not included in the list because Maggie hadn't played yet. Well I like Vital´s games although I don't own any my favorite is Lisboa and hopefully I'll grab mine soon ! Anyway I'd like to hear from you two guys your thoughts and your experience playing Lisboa. I also have another suggestion, if you have the chance to play Tainted Grail would be nice to hear your thoughts about it
Thanks for watching our channel (any friend of Monique and Naveen is a friend of ours 🥰)... glad you are enjoying the videos so far. We are waiting for our copy of Lisboa to arrive, I have ordered it with Mercado de Lisboa kickstarter. Cant wait to play it and review it. We've also not played Tainted Grail - what do you think of it? Thanks for taking the time to comment 😊
Great list ladies. The smile when Amy said Snowdonia, was priceless. You could see the real joy. One of you love Feast for Odin, could practically see the eye roll, Amy I would guess just thinks it is good.
Hehehe!! Thanks James... sometimes I think I (Amy) might be plagued with **involuntary eye rolls** 😅 With feast it actually pained me to put it so "low" on any list... (I lovvvveee it). What is you favourite thematic euro?
Hi Maggie & Amy loved the video and a real interesting list. I watched a ton of top 10's and have been playing strategy board games for a while now. I love Euro's so was curious to see what was on your top 10. We love (Emma and I) these type of games and some of our favourites are Castles of Burgundy, Agricola, Scythe, etc but we were quite surprised that we don't own any of your top 10! Great list, love to see more.
Thanks Paul! Just to clarify these are our top 10 from the thematic perspective only... both of our individual top 10s are different to this list (a couple of crossovers!) but we are working towards launching that list soon! Some great immersive games here though... thanks for watching again!
@@ThinkerThemer You are welcome, yeah I realise many of these wouldn't make your absolute top 10's but you clearly love these games. Emma might like Obsession, I will show her the video.
Ohhh I cant believe how quickly that game rocketed up Maggie's "actual" top games. Sounds like play fairly heavy games already so none on this list should be a barrier!
@@ThinkerThemer just recently we have been playing Brass Lancashire and PAX transhumanity. I am a chess player so I prefer deep thinking and strategy. I like 1830 and Eclipse but Emma is not keen on those so we have to find balances. She prefers Wingspan and Terraforming Mars which I like too, but more like these would be good.
I would prefer if each of you did their own top 10 will be more interresting. Btw if you love Uwe, you should give a shot to At the Gates of Loyang. Ive heard is really good at 2p player game as solo experience too. Keep your great works =)
Yes if it was our actual top ten games (rather than thematic euros which i - Amy - don't care about so much ;)) we would definitely have a different list.... we will do that soon! Thanks Nick for taking the time to comment. 😊
Hi Soffie! No we haven't actually but we have backed Dinosaur World so excited to get that to the table (as well as the cute Rawr'n'Write!) I have seen playthroughs though and the theme looks very well done. Thanks for taking the time to comment ☺
Before I die I would definitely like to try three games from your list: City of Gods (not even gonna try to type the main title :-)), Great Western Trail and Viticulture. From what I hear from other gaming channels I follow Viticulture gains a lot with addition "Toskany". From my shelf I would recommend most checking out three: 1) "Pret-A-Porter" - a fantastic economic game by Ignacy Trzewiczak (the guy who made Robinson Crusoe) often overlooked because its theme is ... preparing and presenting clothes collections. :D. 2) "Simurgh" this game is 'hurt' a bit by its beautiful box with flying creatures which suggest adventure and what not. Aaaaand in fact it's a eurogame though beautifully looking, possibly the most beautiful eurogame I own. Very high replayability. 3) "Craftsmen" - this would a pleasure for anyone who liked "Settlers" style video games: In Craftsmen to make thing A you need thing B and C but to make thing C you need thing D and E. :P I would say it's a very complex and long game but fascinating. For 3 players it runs for around 4 hours.
I haven't heard of number 2 and 3! Will have to check them out. Pret a porter has long been on our list as I think we'd actually love the theme. Definitely try Great Western Trail and Viticulture, they are fantastic games (and absolutely Viticulture expansion Tuscany is a must have). Thank you for your great suggestions and taking the time to comment Sanderus ☺
Teotihuacan or Tehkenu, I don’t know which to choose! :( Obsession is a great game thank you for your suggestions, me and my fiancée really loved playing it.
I think we prefer Teo but Tekhenu has more strategies to explore and is better at 2 players. So glad to hear you are enjoying Obsession! Thanks for taking the time to comment Vincent 😊
New sub here.. we just bought A feast for Odin, and waiting on it to get here. I already own Robinson Crusoe, and we like it. I’m going to add Snowdonia and Great American trail to the list. Viticulture is already on my list.
Hi Toni thanks for the sub and welcome to the channel, great to have you here ☺ Cant wait to hear what you think of Feast!! Please let us know. It is a marvellous game 🥰 thanks for taking the time to comment!
One thing which might help with discussing Theme is to show the game board, game pieces. For example Brass Birmingham has boats or trains connecting the different towns. That there is movements of goods to several markets. The leader of each round changes based on the amount of money spent.Personally seeing the two sided game board showing day and night (glow of factories in the night, or just coloured country during the day. I really think Roxley made the game very immersive.
Thanks Randy for the feedback, you're right that we use a lot of images and video for our in depth reviews but not our top 10s... ! Will think about a way to add this in ☺
Guten morgen Jack! (That's all I have!!) Thanks for the lovely feedback. We have not played abomination but it does look richly thematic. Worth checking out? ☺
I was going to be SO disappointed if you didn't say Obsession at #1... I was on the edge of my seat! I think you are spot on (although arguably Viticulture belongs there too - can you have two # 1s?) :)
Haha! We agree that the two are super close for top spot... I (Amy) maybe would've said viticulture but themer knows best for this list and she is verrrry passionate about Obsession!! Glad you're a fan of them both and thanks for taking the time to comment Steve! ☺
Some great games here, with some surprises. I was surprised you found Teotihuacan thematic... although you really explained it well! It's a fantastic game. Architects, Viticulture, Trickerion, and Obsession would definitely have made my list too. :) I would also say, in no particular order: (1) Castell (building human towers for Spanish festivals) (2) Legacy: Duke de Crecy (building family trees and trying to make the most memorable family) (3) Lisboa (rebuilding the city of Lisbon after it was destroyed by 3 concurrent, historical natural disasters) (4) Endeavor: Age of Sail (exploration and conquest and is a strange game in that it makes you confront the idea of slavery... often to deeply disturbing results, will your morality win out causing you to abolish it, or will you yield to financial benefit and sacrifice your morality, harming you in the end?) (5) Clank (steal a dragon's treasure but don't make too much noise, or the dragon will eat you). (6) Dungeon Petz (raise monsters to sell to dungeon lords, feed them, scoop poo, buy food, buy cages, fulfill their needs, satisfy hilariously picky clients)
These are some great adds and love the way you describe their thematic highlights!!! Castell is one that we are sooo keen to play! Thanks for the reminder I need to bump it up my to buy list... whew it is always such a long list isn't it...??!! ☺ thanks for watching this video and taking the time to write these thoughts!
#1, just found you and subscribed right away. You have great taste in games. #2, one of you said that in Viticulture, the Tasting Room reward only happens if you have wine in your cellar. I have not heard of this restriction, and don't recall seeing it in my second edition copy of the original Viticulture. #3, talking about thematic Euros is so appropriate in my life today! Dice Tower yesterday posted their Christmas list of "thematic" games. I took the opportunity to post a comment in the comments section of the video, asking, "What makes a game thematic?" Seems that the word is sometimes just 'code' for "I like the theme of this game" or "dudes fight each other on a board, and that is cool so it is thematic". The one game that I mentioned in my comments was ... wait for it ... Obsession!
Thank you so much for the sub, and excited to have you here given we have such similar taste in games :) what are some of your favourites? I believe the tasting room rule changed between editions to help balance out some of the new visitor cards (and to reduce the effectiveness of a no wine strategy). Amazing that you also thought of Obsession... there is just no denying how well integrated the theme is into that game. Maggie (themer) thinks of it like a holy grail of euros... lol... Thanks for taking the time to comment ☺
@@ThinkerThemer yes i've read it correctly ! I think the theme of this game is so poor .... I played the 1st version of the game, maybe the following versions have added theme but i am so surprised you put it number 1 !
Nice video! The only thing that is missing for me is photos of the boards. I didn‘t know like 8 of these games and just seeing the box art made me stop and google how the game looks on the table a lot of times.
Awesome episode and such a great list. I still have yet to play Caverna & Feast for Odin (I haven’t even played Agricola). I’m now checking out how I can locate a copy of Obsession or at least someone who has it. I’m with you Amy on Viticulture (my #1 game All-Time). Trickerion is one I’ve been dying to get a hold of from all the buzz i hear from everyone and you ladies didn’t help my need to own this game. Keep up the amazing content. I’m really enjoying it!
Thanks for watching Jazz! Ohhhh my goodness you haven't played Feast?? Scrap all of your weekend plans immediately. Don't make us fly over there. You're going to LOVE it.
@@kritisharma5702 thanks for the sub Kriti! Great to have you here... seems a few people are trying to get copies of Obsession. It was on Amazon so hopefully there will be another print run soon! ☺
This was a great list! My partner and I have played most of these and agree about top 10. Obsession is new but we're actively looking for a copy after watching your review! I'm not a historical drama person but the game itself looks like lots of fun! What are your thoughts on Vinhos (Lacerda) versus Viticulture? For us, Viticulture is a bit too luck-based due to the luck of the draw. Also prefer the tasting/competiton of Vinhos and the banking mechanism. Tang Garden might interest you for a thematic Euro. Its a medium weight game of building a garden where sight lines and character preferences play an important role.
Hi Skie sorry I just found this comment! Great to hear you enjoyed and could relate to this list...! Maggie just loves Obsession... she hasn't stopped talking about it since we got it lol. We haven't played Vinhos unfortunately but I can relate to your comments about the cards in Viticulture.... but it holds such a special place in our heart that game. Tang Garden is one that I missed the Kickstarter on - I would love to try it sometime. Maybe when cons are back! Thanks so much for watching and for taking the time to comment (and sorry again for the delayed reply!)
I’ve got to say I was pretty disappointed when I got to the end of the list and there was no Lacerda, but you saved it with the honorable mention. I just think he’s the best at marrying theme and heavy mechanics, especially in The Gallerist and Lisboa. I don’t care too much for Viticulture, though it is a beautiful package. Some of the actions just don’t make sense (like the blending you mentioned - a two year red and a three year white make a five year rose?) and the card draw can be wildly unbalanced. I think Brewcrafters does a bit better job with a similar theme, though not as attractively. Brass and Trickerion would definitely make my list. Not sure about GWT - if the industrial revolution doesn’t get you excited, driving cattle to market doesn’t really do it for me. I think Barrage, and probably Dominant Species would make the list as well. P.S. When I play Trickerion, I always call them spells!
Well at least we agree on the confusing spell-like tricks of Trickerion LOL! Thank you we both really enjoyed hearing your thoughts on the most thematic games and appreciate you taking the time to write and compare our lists. Being interested in the theme to begin with I guess helps you to feel more immersed (just how we really struggle with space or fantasy themes no matter how well integrated!) Have a lovely weekend Terrence! ☺
I'm pretty new to the hobby (and to your channel) but really enjoyed hearing your take on these. The one I would most have loved you to add to your list was peeping over your shoulder the whole time - Troyes! Personally I find the art evocative and there are good thematic nods in many elements of the mechanics - particularly the activity cards. Good to see Viticulture high in your list - it is strong thematically if maybe a little light for your category? FInally I think you were right to leave Jaws out - yes it's incredibly strong thematically (recently played and played the movie theme music on every shark attack) but I think it's distinctly American, not Euro. [Hi again - exchanged comments earlier on BGG :) ]
Hi Stuart!! Ohh that is super interesting... I (Amy) find the opposite with Troyes... maybe because the mechanics in the game are so interesting to me that I ignore the theme (even more than usual ha ha ha). I'll have to ask Maggie about what she thinks. Yes I do agree that viticulture was probably one of the lightest on the list but HAD to be there 🥰 Thanks for taking the time to comment and we are happy to have you here! ☺
Ooh, I see you have dvonn on the shelf. Not seen that in a while. Definitely not thematic! Lol I've not played an abstract in so long now come to think of it.
Hahahaah no and Maggie hates it (and most abstracts... no theme) but I love it so it will never leave the collection!!! I taught her Shobu last night and she hated every second of it... so no abstracts for me very often either...!
Great List! I think it would be nice if you showed some pictures of the games' components especially since it was about theme. On Brass: It's crazy Amy doesn't like it. I am rather a Thinker myself, but it is my favorite game!
Do you own all these games?! I'm fascinated how your mutual taste in games runs the gamut from heavier to lighter. Sure, as a heavy board gamer myself, I suppose I do play a light game from time to time, but I don't know that I ever would have considered a game like Calico or Honey Buzz for my collection. Though I must say, your raves about games like that made me look at them twice for sure! Thanks for the great new channel to watch, Amy and Maggie. You, too, make a fantastic team, both in life and on TH-cam!! :)
Thank you so much Larry that is such lovely feedback. Big box euros is definitely where we both are most passionate but I would say that between the two of us I'm (Amy) more into smaller box games which Maggie can't get into as much because they don't usually have the immersiveness that she values. I also love a good abstract which she hates, and I enjoy games more for the interaction whereas she likes multiplayer solitaire so I also like smaller games that teach easily and I can take to the office or parties etc. So unfortunately that means we buy lots of different games lol... lucky we both agree that neither of us enjoy cooperating 🤣 Thanks for being here and your kind support ☺
@@ThinkerThemer Amy, how is it you are able to reply to practically everyone on your channel? And within 10 minutes to boot! ;) I'm so impressed. You are so good at what you do!
Lol! I appreciate the time and thought that goes into writing comments & enjoy getting to know everyone 😄 plus it is the least I can do for the channel seeing as though Maggie does all the video editing 🤣😬😬😬
Amazing list. I love me thematic games and Euros have gotten better at it but I think Obsession shows how much is possible. It almost makes the rulebook obsolete after the first learning game because everything can be explained with easy examples. Brass did something similar with Coal and Iron which sticks to this day (lots of other stuff doesn’t though!).
Yes they are definitely getting better at it and I think gamers are expecting more and more from their tabletop experiences. Lucky there are some brilliant designers out there. I'm glad you agree about Obsession and thank you for taking the time to comment on our first top 10!
I love thematic games. Such a great list and I can't wait to play Obsession & Snowdonia is on my top 10. The only ones I'd add are Kanban & Millennium Blades. Maybe Die Macher if you are talking thematic.
Thanks for watching Lawrence and glad you enjoyed the list. Snowdonia is such a special game... it's both tightly competitive yet strangely relaxing all at the same time, we love it too. Thanks for taking the time to comment ☺
Which games give you ***involuntary thematic reflex*** ?
Circus Flohcati - we have to hum a circus tune whenever we flip the grand parade card!
Libertalia does it for me.
@@blackboardgaming5348 I still have yet to try Libertalia.
@@jazzcruz9473 Libertalia is a great game and hilarious with the right people.
Teotihuacan would be on my list as well. Absolutely love this game.
I think I will let you two do all the reviews in the future.
Maggie says deal if you make all of our games in the future 😂
Obsession is the most brilliant thematic game on my shelf. I love it and need more!
Before You Play sent me here and I am glad they did. You two are great! Love this list!
Aw Monique and Naveen are the best right?? So lovely to have you here Ben and thank you for taking the time to comment. ☺
Me too and I agree! Hope to see more from you. Great stuff.
Hi Ben - I could only find this thread to contact you! I believe you send us a tip this morning on PayPal and I wanted to find a way to reach out to say a huge thank you for your generosity!!!!!! It is overwhelming to us and your support means so much. Thank you for the kind contribution to our channel.
@@ThinkerThemer Haha, you tracked me down! You two are great and I just wanted to give you both a tip for the great job you all do and the hours of entertainment and information you have been providing me.
Thank you so much we are so grateful for the support. Hope to chat soon about games in the comments ❤
This channel is fantastic. It’s really making me consider how a game will feel and play for my wife (as well as me of course!), because I’m definitely someone that needs the theme to land and be relevant to what I’m doing on the board, but I’m discovering that my wife probably appreciates tight, pacey, fun mechanics more.
Thanks so much for the kind words Jack. We had no idea how many people would resonate with the " thinker / themer " premise. Glad it can help you identify what might make a game work for yourself or your wife. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment!
How about a Thinker`s dream top 10 list ;)
This is a fantastic list! I've been enjoying your videos and I love hearing both of your perspectives on games. Keep up the great work, Amy and Maggie!
Great list, girls, well done! It's the first video I watch from your channel and I immediately subscribed! It feels good to see more female power in gaming :)
Yay thank you we are so happy to have you here - love your content and admire your video work! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. 💕💕💕
I love your list, I was kind of expecting seeing Darwin's Journey, but you did have Trickerion, and all your choices make great sense, I do love your no. 1... "Would you care to join us for tea and crumpets?"
Oh thanks Axel! This video is from long before Darwin's Journey and probably does need a good update. We're spoiled for choice now with thematic euros! Thanks for watching
You might want to check out Pret-a-Porter. Everything you do is highly thematic.
Great list :), for a thematic Vital Lacerda game I would've gone with Lisboa just because if feels like you are working towards rebuilding the city and everything feels integrated.
Agree...Lacerda intertwines theme and mechanics probably better than any other heavy Euro designer
I've just discovered you two.
Gotta say your channel is amazing.
Dana
(All the way from Jaffa Israel)
Thanks so much Dana! We would love to visit Israel one day! Thanks for watching ☺
This is a great list, ladies, but since 2 years have passed since it was made, I was wondering if you might update it?
Eeeee I know! We've been thinking about this one. There's so many good ones to choose from now but the line is also blurry about what constitutes a euro. Hmmm 🤔🙂 thanks for putting it back on our radar and for supporting the channel!! We really appreciate it ❤️
Oh no. Looks like I have to go to my local game store and buy every last one of these. I now know I am a euro theme gamer. My wallet regrets that I saw this video and am now a subscriber.
Thanks for being here Emma and for watching! 🥰
I just love the ITR ... so many times that happens in the games my group plays :)
Really enjoyed this list, ThinkerThemer, thank you!
Hahaha which game has your favourite ITR? Thanks for taking the time to comment Phil 😊
Obsession - one of my favourite games! Thank you for this happy to see this game getting credit because it is well deserved - a hidden gem.
Surely not hidden for long.... it is fabulous and soooo thematic. Thanks for taking the time to comment on our videos Fredz 😁
We were directed to your channel in a recent interview with Jamey Stegmaier from Stonemaier games. Great work on your channel and your approach.
Oh thank you so much! I haven't seen that one? Please drop the link if it is not too much trouble! Glad to have you here and thanks for taking the time to comment ☺
@@ThinkerThemer It's in the editing studio atm. I'll shoot you the link when it goes live! Likely in the next few days.
Oh your own video!!! Forgive me, I didn't realise that's what you meant. What a wonderful opportunity to sit down with Jamey. Thanks for sharing and happy new year! ☺
@@ThinkerThemer He was super generous with his time to sit down with us. You two make a pop out cameo when he mentions your channel. th-cam.com/video/3h1Xbs3IYYs/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=LegendaryTactics
What an excellent presentation; I'm hooked! Kinda sad that you give the nod to Caverna over Agricola, but hey, different strokes, right? Tickled that you like AFFO and Snowdonia, two relatively recent additions to my crew's rotation, and also Brass:B and GWT, two titles on my bucket list that I haven't pulled the trigger on yet. A little mystified by the love for Viticulture (too much luck of the draw for my taste), despite said love being understandable from the viewpoint of it being a decent gateway game. And I thank you for the alert to several titles I will now have to look into: the T titles.
I've no idea (at this point) what all you've played/own, but since our tastes in games seem to be highly similar, I'll recommend a few to you to look into if you haven't already: Tzol'kin, Hansa Teutonica, Concordia, Village, Tigris &b Euphrates, Dominant Species (both OG and the new Marine), Egizia, Clans of Caledonia, and an ancient favorite, Caylus.
What's your preferred player count, discounting the effect of the covid pandemic?
Okay, time to go watch more of your videos. Keep up the fine work!
Hi Geoff! Thanks for watching and taking the time to write this! From your suggestions list we own about half - Tigris & Eupgrates is high on the list for games we would love to play! And we do seem to have similar taste (sorry but Viticulture has a lot of sentimental value!! 🥰)
Precovid we always played at 4 generally. Since then we really had to learn to just play together - and now we've played much of our collection at 2. I think most of my favourite games shine at 4... but now I also value the quicker pace of a 2 player game but it depends on the game as often they lose a lot of tension at 2. How about you? Thanks for watching! ☺
@@ThinkerThemer Hiya back! I, too, prefer 4p games since that's the size of my current crew/gaming bubble. The competition feels more varied/interesting, and of course the social dynamic is more engaging. Not that 2p is bad; I took up the hobby as a wargamer back in the heyday of Avalon Hill and SPI, so head-to-head competition is fine by me, but I'm with you that many if not most modern strategy games seem to optimize at 4p. As it is, another buddy and I have beaten poor Agricola half to death at 2p with no significant loss of interest, at least on my part.
Ah, well, I'm looking forward to the return to my local gaming cafe once the weather turns and we can play outside on their patio. Gotta get the Norwegian expansion for AFFO to the table...
Cheers!
This older one plopped up in my feed 🙂 I do not agree with your choices but nice to see Brass in the list. My favorite game that none of my friends like. But where is Terraforming Mars?!? 🤔 Anyway, I think I will look into Snowdonia and Obsession 😁
AND.... at this point we hadn't played Terraforming Mars! I wonder if it would make Maggie's list now 🤔
@@ThinkerThemer I did buy the collectors edition of Snowdonia. It's a bit too short and simple for my group and too much setup for what it is. But we will try some expansions as well. Is there any expansion that you would recommend?
Which one is better for beginners, Viticulture or Agricola?
Definitely Viticulture Barbara! The linear structure of the game really helps with learning and teaching (and the intuitive theme!)
Awesome list! Was Spirit Island in the running? I find this game incredibly thematic and there’s almost zero luck in it!
Great pick Richard! To be fair this list probably heavily leans towards competitive games because we don't play cooperative games very often. We have played Spirit Island though and do agree that it is thematic. ☺
Hey girls, great list.
Ideas for future videos:
top 10 games of all times....
top 10 two player games
top 10 gateway games
top 10 mid weight games
top 10 heavy games
For two players have you tried Watergate? It is super fun and you don't have to know anything about the watergate but it is a great tug of war game.
Some of the top games on my list (in no particular order) that you have not already mentioned: Terra Forming Mars, Wingspan, Everdell, Maracaibo, Pandemic, Imaginarium, Coimbra, Parks, Tekhenu, Nemesis (very thematic - but I know you don't like space theme so much. You might want to try Mansions of Madness as I think it would be more your prefered theme), and recently added Endless Winter (playing on TTS).
Looking forward to more videos :)
Great ideas! We know we need to get to some more top 10 lists... there's just too many games to review all of the time 😅 actually we really have only started playing 2 player during the pandemic. We haven't played Watergate but have heard great things. Did you check out Unforgiven on kickstarter? It looks like it will be another great 2 player game with a historical overlay...
Appreciate you taking the time to comment as you watch our videos. Love hearing feedback and suggestions. ☺
@@ThinkerThemer thanks, I will check out unforgiven.
Obsession is such a hidden gem. I'm glad it's getting more coverages so more people can enjoy this lovely game.
It has always irked that "Ameritrash" games are automatically regarded as more thematic. As Amy relates, many times you are rolling dice to resolve which never feels thematically tied. In many ways, and as a fan of theme, I find a lot of "Ameritrash" games entirely unthematic. They seem to do a lot of the heavy lifting through flavour text and art. In digital games, the indie scene coined the term "dynamic meaning" in which mechanics alone and through the act of playing, does the narrative or theme come to the fore. And in boardgames, it is "Euro" games which best approach that ideal.
I only wish that we had a higher fidelity of discourse in order for us to enthuse those ideals because at times, a mechanically thematic Euro seems a bit hit and miss; something like Newton, really missed its chance for a thematically tied game (a lot of the mechanics feel abstracted away from its university/learning setting to the extent of the game becoming almost narrative-less) whereas something like Lorenzo Il Magnifico is surprising with its mechanic ties to theme.
Essentially, I wish designers and developers just had the cognizance that Euro's can be incredibly thematic through their mechanics as they sometimes, perhaps by mistake, hit upon. Improving the discourse around boardgames is a step towards that.
Thank you so much for this comment Hude, it was a pleasure to read. We love the way you describe the notion of a theme that is 'surface deep' rather than being intrinsically linked to the mechanics of the game. I (Amy) really struggle to see this sometimes, but Maggie is so amazing at realising this immediately (as it helps her comprehend the gameplay)... but once you can appreciate this element of a game, even though I'm not a themer, I do think it is a huge part of what makes a game stick with you. Again, thank you for taking the time to detail this comment... it is so nice for us to find like-minded people all over the world...
Great list..big hi from euro gamer from Serbia..
Hello and thanks for watching Miran! Appreciate the kind feedback ☺
Love this video and I'm going to have to track down a copy of Obsession now. As a Brit (with animosity, ha) Birmingham is not Bir-ming-ham in Alabama it's Bur-min-gum in England 😉 check Peaky Blinders for pronunciation.
I'm big on theme! I liked a lot of your Top Ten (Obsession is one of my favorites!), but some were big misses for me when I played them. The totally inaccurate creation of rosé and champagne in Viticulture actually took me out of the experience when I played it the first time. It just made NO sense to me and completely broke the thematic spell for me; I didn't end up liking the game at all.
As far as ITR, I've gotten it a lot from Xia, Legends of a Drift System. I know space would be quiet, but I can't help but make Star Wars-esque spaceship sounds as I move across the board. Also, early on, Betrayal at House on the Hill was basically an RPG for a lot of my friends. We did voices and picked moves based on horror movie tropes over what might be for the best as far as winning the game.
Lol "I know space would be quiet" ... I've never thought about that before. Would it be quiet?? Space movies always seem so action packed and loud lol. We played Betrayal Legacy and can totally see how that would be thematic. We had creepy music going too that I had to turn off at once point because I got too scared... 😅 Thanks for watching this video and taking the time to comment Jenny!
For me:
10. Agricola
9. Clans of Caledonia
8. Eclipse
7. Castles of Mad King Ludwig
6. Great Western Trail
5. Terraforming Mars
4. Gaia Project
3. Brass: Birmingham
2. A Feast for Odin
1. Dominant Species
Honorable Mentions: Tzolkin, Five Tribes, Anachrony
Great list with some cross-over with us!! Thanks for taking the time to share ☺
Really surprised that there were no Vital Lacerda games on your list. I could argue that at least CO2, On Mars, Lisboa, Vinhos and The Gallerist could easily be in top3 when it comes to a) having a theme and not just a setting, and b) having strong integration between mechanics and said theme.
Considering the games you listed, you would probably enjoy The Transcontinental if you can get your hands on it. A euro game about building the transcontinental railway in Canada.
A wild card option would be Tigris & Euphrates. It may seem abstract, but it actually tells really fascinating stories about rise and fall of civilisations.
Nice to see a top ten focusing on them in euro's. Just lovely! Just checked out your gig with Alex Radcliffe and went to subscribe to your channel. Great chemistry, but that's a no-brainer, but also in the give and take within the thinker themer look at it all. I'll be back, often!
Thanks Sebastian that is such lovely feedback ☺ we had so much fun filming with Alex. Glad to have you here thank you for checking out our videos!
The first top ten!! Yay!!! I enjoyed the list, ladies. I'm looking forward to future lists.
Yay! We are so glad you enjoyed it.... more lists to come... let us know if you gave any ideas! 🥰
I think I'd love Brass IF the theme was different. I just can't get past the historical facts that my role would be to cram people into Oliver Twist types of industries, destroying their lives as I pile up the riches. I just can't get over it. Give me a higher purpose and I would totally own such a game. Problem when I look up 'games like Brass' is I get more 'crush the poor' or venture capitalist game suggestions.
Brass is one of most loved games in general so Hurray that it's on the list. I would add Dominant Species and even if you have Caverna and FfO on the list I have to mention Fields of Arle. Praga Caput Regni is also a game where I get a thematic vibe. Other than that I think many Lacerda titles would make my list. Kanban, The Gallerist, On Mars,....
Finally I have to mention Rococo - it is a great game and the designers are in a board game group I use to go to if there is no nasty Corona around.
In a similar theme Pret a Porter is also an interesting choice.
100% agree with your number 1! so many ridiculous ITR moments - I’ll be playing solo and just giggling like crazy because I set up the cutest date ever, or yelling out to my partner (who wouldn’t care) because I have to announce to someone that I pulled off hosting an incredibly prestigious dinner party... so much fun!
a game I might have included would be Nusfjord, I think that’s quite thematic and lovely... also Summit the Board Game and the Lost Valley, but I’m not sure they are totally euros! thanks for the great list! 💕
Hahahaha so glad you love it as much as we do Kim.... a game that can bring so much joy and laughter is truly something special. We love Nusfjord (we recently reviewed this in a separate video) but haven't played Summit or the Lost Valley! I've not heard of the Lost Valley *looks up on bgg* - looks interesting!! And they are both mountain themed!! Thanks for taking the time to comment and the lovely feedback ☺
I have over 100 games still in the shrink (well almost) and I've resolved to completely stop buying games. Except for 2 more now 😲
Just came across your channel,you both very knowledgable,except maybe about us 'Brits' and how we talk :)
My game group makes the same ‘ascension’ sound effect in teotihuacan :)
Have you ladies ever tried Teriforming Mars? I find it to be very thematic but the components may leave a bit lacking. Was it anywhere near your top 10?
This is a great video for me! Thank you so much! I believe I'm a themer, but if a game isn't any good and has terrible mechanics and rules then I don't want anything to do with it, no matter how much I love the theme.
U could easily join our game group, great list. It is the heavier games. Only number 5 and 1 has never been on the table. The rest come around each year.
Holding On : The Troubled Life of Billy Kerr
Super Thematic!
The Pursuit of Happiness for me is peak of theme in a board game. Every action and choice and consequence is as if one is living real life. Check it out.
We have it coming from the most recent kickstarter! Can't wait thank you for the suggestion!
This is my favorite video of yours so far. In particular I like your overviews with how you each decompose theme and mechanics, or what Euro means to you. More of these sort of discussions, or discussing how particular games touch on each element of these breakdowns. Thanks for it!
Oh thank you so much for this lovely feedback, I just found this comment!! All of our game reviews are structured around an analysis of mechanics and theme... i hope you've been able to check some of those out! Thanks for watching and taking the time to write this! ☺
Hi - I'm a publisher (Dr Finn's Games) trying to find a way to contact you.
That was great (though yes very controversial about Brass I said that myself!) haha. I can't believe I didn't know about this video before, silly me. I guess the obvious suggestion is a top 10 Mechanic Marvels. Barrage gives me the ITR because when the water starts coming down the mountain I always say "Swooooooosh!".
I like the top 10 mechanic marvels name! You're a word wizard 💕 can u follow me everywhere and make me sound smarter thanks so much
@@ThinkerThemer LOL! Sure, I'll bring my hollowed out coconuts as I follow along, Monty Python-style. Geez I hope you know what I'm talking about rn. haha.
Thanks! I was wondering if Praga Caput Regni was themey enough to make it.
Hello from Israel. Thanks for an interesting, informative and fun video. BTW, I grew up in Melbourne, it’s a great city. I would like to see videos that present your current collection, favorite games etc. I love how you have designed your content based on theme and mechanics. The interaction between you on screen is great and fun to watch.
Hi Anita thank you and welcome to our channel, we are very happy to have you here. Thank you for taking the time to comment with this lovely feedback. Melbourne is a fabulous city and we can't wait to visit Israel one day (was almost there for Eurovision haha). We have been asked a lot about our collection and it is definitely something we have planned for early 2021... to talk about the games we own and love! We just keep getting distracted by new games 😅
I just watched your Pax Pamir video. Amazing game. But would it qualify as a Euro? It’s one of the most thematic games I’ve ever played, but I am not sure it is a Euro. Also, no love for Lisboa?
Yes!!! Pax Pamir is super thematic but we played it after making this list... although... it's probably not our favourite type of theme so not sure it would crack our top 10. If it was top 20 I think there'd also be more Lacerda games - the rule sets takeaway from the theme a little for us 🙃 too many good games!!
Great list. Viticulture is a favourite of mine. So what’s missing... the classic Caylus or its new version Caylus 1303 have the best take that of any Euro, via the Provost. Concordia is in my top 10 of all games let alone Euros. Is it a Euro? I think so, even though it is mechanically stripped down. Nations is a CIV but certainly a Euro by nature, It’s arguably the best CIV game under 4 hours. Castles of Burgundy is a classic ‘dice action’ Euro game, the dice are used as a Euro mechanism rather than an American-trash power/drama tool. Finally, without going too long, Eclispe is a superbly thematic space 4X Euro. Love to watch more of your very well thought out reviews. 👍 Happy new year.
Thanks Steve!! Actually we have never played Caylus... it seems like one that Maggie would get angry at me over. Lol. Eclipse is another one that we've never played and will look into. Thank you for taking the time to write this and watch our videos... and for the very lovely feedback. Happy New Year to you too and apologies for the delayed reply on this one I only just found it!
Raiders of the North Sea, Scythe, Spirit Island all come to mind
I expected heavier picks towards the top but I’m new to your channel and enjoyed a themer owning a euro list quite a bit. I gotta say: agricola>>caverna, you need to play robinson despite hating coops (trust me, it’s a euro feast) and seek out archipelago for a unique, thematic euro for both of you to enjoy.
Ah yes! I think if it was our actual top ten games it might be a bit heavier 😁 Maggie owns and loves Robinson Crusoe ! We haven't played archipelago though... will have to look into that one. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment! 😊
Have you ever played Village? This was the euro game that did worker death before Teotihuacan and for my money it's even more thematic as your workers literally make up multiple generations of your family and their occupation at time of death will determine if they are recorded in the village's book of records or if they're destined for an anonymous grave. Haven't tried the expansions yet but my impression is that they crank the thematic elements up even further.
Just stumbled upon your channel yesterday by the way and really enjoying your review style, so thank you!
Very glad to have you here Jesse, welcome!! We have heard great things about Village but somehow haven't purchased a copy yet! So clever with the thematic use of workers. Thanks for taking the time to comment and for the lovely feedback 🥰
Settler of Catan was one of the pioneer Euros, is strategic, and used die rolls.
Maggie liking Brass and Amy not caught me off guard.
Fantastic video, your perspectives are so insightful and witty. Loving every video you do!
Love to see games that left your collection and why.
Older games of your fav designers atm. I.e. Suchy’s games before Praga., or Feld games before Bonfire.
Yesss definitely need to get into our older games. If the industry could just stop publishing for a year or so that would be helpful for catching up hehehe 😅 thanks for the suggestions Norman and taking the time to comment 😊
Another vote for Suchy. A strong current designer for me.
Euro games have a lot of worker placement to get points and resources in the game.
Thematic Euros are my genre. Great list!
I was today years old when I learned you have yet to play the GoaT: Tigris and Euprates.
Thanks for another entertaining video!
OMG I know....!!! Tommy this is something we need to rectify ASAP.... 😬
@@ThinkerThemer Many people will be all too happy to tell you it's themeless, which is akin to saying LEGO is just plastic bricks. I wish you both great joy watching your civilisations rise and crumble (be sure to play it with 4P).
I LOVE this analogy... I'll have to use it on Maggie every time she tells me a game lacks theme lol. I'm curious to know what you think of Yellow and Yangtze?
Do you all have an opinion on original Brass? I think it is a knife fight in game form.
Love Jaws! It's great.
Your list was awesome! 😁
Hi Amy & Maggie, I'm Leo from Brazil and dropped in your channel by the guys from "before you play" when they made video about other reviewers they like to watch, and you know what? I liked you guys, its cool that different approach you have one from another to analyze board games based in way you most enjoy playing it.
In the end of this video you talk about a game of Vital that was not included in the list because Maggie hadn't played yet.
Well I like Vital´s games although I don't own any my favorite is Lisboa and hopefully I'll grab mine soon ! Anyway I'd like to hear from you two guys your thoughts and your experience playing Lisboa.
I also have another suggestion, if you have the chance to play Tainted Grail would be nice to hear your thoughts about it
Thanks for watching our channel (any friend of Monique and Naveen is a friend of ours 🥰)... glad you are enjoying the videos so far. We are waiting for our copy of Lisboa to arrive, I have ordered it with Mercado de Lisboa kickstarter. Cant wait to play it and review it. We've also not played Tainted Grail - what do you think of it? Thanks for taking the time to comment 😊
14:27 You mean Brass BIR-MING-UM…
Dungeon Petz would be my number one on a similar list.
ITR is now in my game chat.
😂 thank you Jeff ❤
I am a thinker and very rarely think of thematic ties in games. It's so interesting to hear how a themer experiences games. It's so different!
hopefully you do some underated euro games games longly forgotten
We try to have a mix of new and old... we still have such a long list of things to film! Thanks for taking the time to comment ☺
Great list ladies. The smile when Amy said Snowdonia, was priceless. You could see the real joy. One of you love Feast for Odin, could practically see the eye roll, Amy I would guess just thinks it is good.
Hehehe!! Thanks James... sometimes I think I (Amy) might be plagued with **involuntary eye rolls** 😅 With feast it actually pained me to put it so "low" on any list... (I lovvvveee it). What is you favourite thematic euro?
@@ThinkerThemer Viticulture, Stone Age, Chimera Station, and Cold Water Crown are 4 of my favorite Thematic Europe's. 3 of 4 is worker placement.
@@jamesbrazeal3847 Cold Water Crown has been on our must try list for a while... we love fishing! 🐟
Obsession is definitely the right choice.
fantastic top 10. Well done ladies :)
Hi Maggie & Amy loved the video and a real interesting list. I watched a ton of top 10's and have been playing strategy board games for a while now. I love Euro's so was curious to see what was on your top 10. We love (Emma and I) these type of games and some of our favourites are Castles of Burgundy, Agricola, Scythe, etc but we were quite surprised that we don't own any of your top 10! Great list, love to see more.
Thanks Paul! Just to clarify these are our top 10 from the thematic perspective only... both of our individual top 10s are different to this list (a couple of crossovers!) but we are working towards launching that list soon! Some great immersive games here though... thanks for watching again!
@@ThinkerThemer You are welcome, yeah I realise many of these wouldn't make your absolute top 10's but you clearly love these games. Emma might like Obsession, I will show her the video.
Ohhh I cant believe how quickly that game rocketed up Maggie's "actual" top games. Sounds like play fairly heavy games already so none on this list should be a barrier!
@@ThinkerThemer just recently we have been playing Brass Lancashire and PAX transhumanity. I am a chess player so I prefer deep thinking and strategy. I like 1830 and Eclipse but Emma is not keen on those so we have to find balances. She prefers Wingspan and Terraforming Mars which I like too, but more like these would be good.
I would prefer if each of you did their own top 10 will be more interresting. Btw if you love Uwe, you should give a shot to At the Gates of Loyang. Ive heard is really good at 2p player game as solo experience too. Keep your great works =)
Yes if it was our actual top ten games (rather than thematic euros which i - Amy - don't care about so much ;)) we would definitely have a different list.... we will do that soon! Thanks Nick for taking the time to comment. 😊
my thematic euro favourite is Dinosaur Island. Have you played it?
Hi Soffie! No we haven't actually but we have backed Dinosaur World so excited to get that to the table (as well as the cute Rawr'n'Write!) I have seen playthroughs though and the theme looks very well done. Thanks for taking the time to comment ☺
@@ThinkerThemer that's great.
Before I die I would definitely like to try three games from your list: City of Gods (not even gonna try to type the main title :-)), Great Western Trail and Viticulture. From what I hear from other gaming channels I follow Viticulture gains a lot with addition "Toskany". From my shelf I would recommend most checking out three: 1) "Pret-A-Porter" - a fantastic economic game by Ignacy Trzewiczak (the guy who made Robinson Crusoe) often overlooked because its theme is ... preparing and presenting clothes collections. :D. 2) "Simurgh" this game is 'hurt' a bit by its beautiful box with flying creatures which suggest adventure and what not. Aaaaand in fact it's a eurogame though beautifully looking, possibly the most beautiful eurogame I own. Very high replayability. 3) "Craftsmen" - this would a pleasure for anyone who liked "Settlers" style video games: In Craftsmen to make thing A you need thing B and C but to make thing C you need thing D and E. :P I would say it's a very complex and long game but fascinating. For 3 players it runs for around 4 hours.
I haven't heard of number 2 and 3! Will have to check them out. Pret a porter has long been on our list as I think we'd actually love the theme. Definitely try Great Western Trail and Viticulture, they are fantastic games (and absolutely Viticulture expansion Tuscany is a must have). Thank you for your great suggestions and taking the time to comment Sanderus ☺
Have you played many Lacerda games? I think he's a designer who does heavy euros that have brilliantly integrated theme
Whoops sorry, posted this before I got to the end and you talked about The Gallerist! 😁
Thanks for watching Justin! Which is your favourite Lacerda game? ☺
@@ThinkerThemer probably Vinhos though with more plays it could be Kanban EV
Teotihuacan or Tehkenu, I don’t know which to choose! :(
Obsession is a great game thank you for your suggestions, me and my fiancée really loved playing it.
I think we prefer Teo but Tekhenu has more strategies to explore and is better at 2 players. So glad to hear you are enjoying Obsession! Thanks for taking the time to comment Vincent 😊
Would love to watch an un update to this list!
New sub here.. we just bought A feast for Odin, and waiting on it to get here. I already own Robinson Crusoe, and we like it. I’m going to add Snowdonia and Great American trail to the list. Viticulture is already on my list.
Hi Toni thanks for the sub and welcome to the channel, great to have you here ☺ Cant wait to hear what you think of Feast!! Please let us know. It is a marvellous game 🥰 thanks for taking the time to comment!
One thing which might help with discussing Theme is to show the game board, game pieces. For example Brass Birmingham has boats or trains connecting the different towns. That there is movements of goods to several markets. The leader of each round changes based on the amount of money spent.Personally seeing the two sided game board showing day and night (glow of factories in the night, or just coloured country during the day. I really think Roxley made the game very immersive.
Thanks Randy for the feedback, you're right that we use a lot of images and video for our in depth reviews but not our top 10s... ! Will think about a way to add this in ☺
Very nice video. Thanks. Have you played Abomination? Greetings from Germany.
Guten morgen Jack! (That's all I have!!) Thanks for the lovely feedback. We have not played abomination but it does look richly thematic. Worth checking out? ☺
The Gallerist as Lacerda's most thematic game? Might be On Mars for me but not sure.
Kanban all the way for me, although Dungeon Petz is admittedly very cute.
This was a great list. We should talk about theme on Thursday. I love Teotihuacan. In my top five.
Thanks Dwayne!! Teo is sooo brilliant, we love it too (not only for its theme....) Look forward to chatting again next week.
I was going to be SO disappointed if you didn't say Obsession at #1... I was on the edge of my seat! I think you are spot on (although arguably Viticulture belongs there too - can you have two # 1s?) :)
Haha! We agree that the two are super close for top spot... I (Amy) maybe would've said viticulture but themer knows best for this list and she is verrrry passionate about Obsession!! Glad you're a fan of them both and thanks for taking the time to comment Steve! ☺
Some great games here, with some surprises. I was surprised you found Teotihuacan thematic... although you really explained it well! It's a fantastic game. Architects, Viticulture, Trickerion, and Obsession would definitely have made my list too. :) I would also say, in no particular order:
(1) Castell (building human towers for Spanish festivals)
(2) Legacy: Duke de Crecy (building family trees and trying to make the most memorable family)
(3) Lisboa (rebuilding the city of Lisbon after it was destroyed by 3 concurrent, historical natural disasters)
(4) Endeavor: Age of Sail (exploration and conquest and is a strange game in that it makes you confront the idea of slavery... often to deeply disturbing results, will your morality win out causing you to abolish it, or will you yield to financial benefit and sacrifice your morality, harming you in the end?)
(5) Clank (steal a dragon's treasure but don't make too much noise, or the dragon will eat you).
(6) Dungeon Petz (raise monsters to sell to dungeon lords, feed them, scoop poo, buy food, buy cages, fulfill their needs, satisfy hilariously picky clients)
These are some great adds and love the way you describe their thematic highlights!!! Castell is one that we are sooo keen to play! Thanks for the reminder I need to bump it up my to buy list... whew it is always such a long list isn't it...??!! ☺ thanks for watching this video and taking the time to write these thoughts!
#1, just found you and subscribed right away. You have great taste in games.
#2, one of you said that in Viticulture, the Tasting Room reward only happens if you have wine in your cellar. I have not heard of this restriction, and don't recall seeing it in my second edition copy of the original Viticulture.
#3, talking about thematic Euros is so appropriate in my life today! Dice Tower yesterday posted their Christmas list of "thematic" games. I took the opportunity to post a comment in the comments section of the video, asking, "What makes a game thematic?" Seems that the word is sometimes just 'code' for "I like the theme of this game" or "dudes fight each other on a board, and that is cool so it is thematic". The one game that I mentioned in my comments was ... wait for it ... Obsession!
Thank you so much for the sub, and excited to have you here given we have such similar taste in games :) what are some of your favourites? I believe the tasting room rule changed between editions to help balance out some of the new visitor cards (and to reduce the effectiveness of a no wine strategy).
Amazing that you also thought of Obsession... there is just no denying how well integrated the theme is into that game. Maggie (themer) thinks of it like a holy grail of euros... lol...
Thanks for taking the time to comment ☺
OMG Obsession in # 1 !!! OMG, it's even not in my top 100 eurogames.... better ranked than Brass, OMG.....
For theme ;) this ranking is about being thematic
@@ThinkerThemer yes i've read it correctly ! I think the theme of this game is so poor .... I played the 1st version of the game, maybe the following versions have added theme but i am so surprised you put it number 1 !
Thank you! Enjoyable video, very interesting list - have added few games to my wishlist:)
Thanks for watching Arunas and for taking the time to comment...! Glad you enjoyed this video :)
Nice video! The only thing that is missing for me is photos of the boards. I didn‘t know like 8 of these games and just seeing the box art made me stop and google how the game looks on the table a lot of times.
That's fair! We've come a long way with our editing since this video so next time we'll think about this 😄 thanks for watching.
I have juste discover you both . La realy like youre comment . You are Realy interresting.
Thank you so much Patrice! ☺
Awesome episode and such a great list. I still have yet to play Caverna & Feast for Odin (I haven’t even played Agricola). I’m now checking out how I can locate a copy of Obsession or at least someone who has it. I’m with you Amy on Viticulture (my #1 game All-Time). Trickerion is one I’ve been dying to get a hold of from all the buzz i hear from everyone and you ladies didn’t help my need to own this game.
Keep up the amazing content. I’m really enjoying it!
Thanks for watching Jazz! Ohhhh my goodness you haven't played Feast?? Scrap all of your weekend plans immediately. Don't make us fly over there. You're going to LOVE it.
@@ThinkerThemer so Feast over Caverna?
@@jazzcruz9473 feast over everything.
Hey I need that copy too. These too got me really excited about Obsession. Let me know if you find one :)
@@kritisharma5702 thanks for the sub Kriti! Great to have you here... seems a few people are trying to get copies of Obsession. It was on Amazon so hopefully there will be another print run soon! ☺
This was a great list! My partner and I have played most of these and agree about top 10. Obsession is new but we're actively looking for a copy after watching your review! I'm not a historical drama person but the game itself looks like lots of fun!
What are your thoughts on Vinhos (Lacerda) versus Viticulture? For us, Viticulture is a bit too luck-based due to the luck of the draw. Also prefer the tasting/competiton of Vinhos and the banking mechanism.
Tang Garden might interest you for a thematic Euro. Its a medium weight game of building a garden where sight lines and character preferences play an important role.
Hi Skie sorry I just found this comment! Great to hear you enjoyed and could relate to this list...! Maggie just loves Obsession... she hasn't stopped talking about it since we got it lol. We haven't played Vinhos unfortunately but I can relate to your comments about the cards in Viticulture.... but it holds such a special place in our heart that game. Tang Garden is one that I missed the Kickstarter on - I would love to try it sometime. Maybe when cons are back! Thanks so much for watching and for taking the time to comment (and sorry again for the delayed reply!)
I’ve got to say I was pretty disappointed when I got to the end of the list and there was no Lacerda, but you saved it with the honorable mention. I just think he’s the best at marrying theme and heavy mechanics, especially in The Gallerist and Lisboa.
I don’t care too much for Viticulture, though it is a beautiful package. Some of the actions just don’t make sense (like the blending you mentioned - a two year red and a three year white make a five year rose?) and the card draw can be wildly unbalanced. I think Brewcrafters does a bit better job with a similar theme, though not as attractively.
Brass and Trickerion would definitely make my list. Not sure about GWT - if the industrial revolution doesn’t get you excited, driving cattle to market doesn’t really do it for me. I think Barrage, and probably Dominant Species would make the list as well.
P.S. When I play Trickerion, I always call them spells!
Well at least we agree on the confusing spell-like tricks of Trickerion LOL! Thank you we both really enjoyed hearing your thoughts on the most thematic games and appreciate you taking the time to write and compare our lists. Being interested in the theme to begin with I guess helps you to feel more immersed (just how we really struggle with space or fantasy themes no matter how well integrated!) Have a lovely weekend Terrence! ☺
I'm pretty new to the hobby (and to your channel) but really enjoyed hearing your take on these. The one I would most have loved you to add to your list was peeping over your shoulder the whole time - Troyes! Personally I find the art evocative and there are good thematic nods in many elements of the mechanics - particularly the activity cards. Good to see Viticulture high in your list - it is strong thematically if maybe a little light for your category? FInally I think you were right to leave Jaws out - yes it's incredibly strong thematically (recently played and played the movie theme music on every shark attack) but I think it's distinctly American, not Euro. [Hi again - exchanged comments earlier on BGG :) ]
Hi Stuart!! Ohh that is super interesting... I (Amy) find the opposite with Troyes... maybe because the mechanics in the game are so interesting to me that I ignore the theme (even more than usual ha ha ha). I'll have to ask Maggie about what she thinks. Yes I do agree that viticulture was probably one of the lightest on the list but HAD to be there 🥰 Thanks for taking the time to comment and we are happy to have you here! ☺
As a Brit I feel really rather sullied! :D
Wow. Very nuanced. I like how you guys defined the terms first. Hahaha Subscribed!
Thank you Nelin and welcome to the channel, we're happy to have you here! ☺
Ooh, I see you have dvonn on the shelf. Not seen that in a while. Definitely not thematic! Lol I've not played an abstract in so long now come to think of it.
Hahahaah no and Maggie hates it (and most abstracts... no theme) but I love it so it will never leave the collection!!! I taught her Shobu last night and she hated every second of it... so no abstracts for me very often either...!
Great List! I think it would be nice if you showed some pictures of the games' components especially since it was about theme.
On Brass: It's crazy Amy doesn't like it. I am rather a Thinker myself, but it is my favorite game!
Thanks for the feedback Yannik...! I do feel it is weird that I don't like Brass... lol, something about sharing.... 🤔 🤔
Do you own all these games?! I'm fascinated how your mutual taste in games runs the gamut from heavier to lighter. Sure, as a heavy board gamer myself, I suppose I do play a light game from time to time, but I don't know that I ever would have considered a game like Calico or Honey Buzz for my collection. Though I must say, your raves about games like that made me look at them twice for sure! Thanks for the great new channel to watch, Amy and Maggie. You, too, make a fantastic team, both in life and on TH-cam!! :)
Thank you so much Larry that is such lovely feedback. Big box euros is definitely where we both are most passionate but I would say that between the two of us I'm (Amy) more into smaller box games which Maggie can't get into as much because they don't usually have the immersiveness that she values. I also love a good abstract which she hates, and I enjoy games more for the interaction whereas she likes multiplayer solitaire so I also like smaller games that teach easily and I can take to the office or parties etc. So unfortunately that means we buy lots of different games lol... lucky we both agree that neither of us enjoy cooperating 🤣 Thanks for being here and your kind support ☺
@@ThinkerThemer Amy, how is it you are able to reply to practically everyone on your channel? And within 10 minutes to boot! ;) I'm so impressed. You are so good at what you do!
Lol! I appreciate the time and thought that goes into writing comments & enjoy getting to know everyone 😄 plus it is the least I can do for the channel seeing as though Maggie does all the video editing 🤣😬😬😬
Amazing list. I love me thematic games and Euros have gotten better at it but I think Obsession shows how much is possible. It almost makes the rulebook obsolete after the first learning game because everything can be explained with easy examples. Brass did something similar with Coal and Iron which sticks to this day (lots of other stuff doesn’t though!).
Yes they are definitely getting better at it and I think gamers are expecting more and more from their tabletop experiences. Lucky there are some brilliant designers out there. I'm glad you agree about Obsession and thank you for taking the time to comment on our first top 10!
I love thematic games. Such a great list and I can't wait to play Obsession & Snowdonia is on my top 10. The only ones I'd add are Kanban & Millennium Blades. Maybe Die Macher if you are talking thematic.
Thanks for watching Lawrence and glad you enjoyed the list. Snowdonia is such a special game... it's both tightly competitive yet strangely relaxing all at the same time, we love it too. Thanks for taking the time to comment ☺