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Game mechanics explained

A simple picture and a short explanation for each way games make you think.

Mechanics are the rules that shape how a game actually plays. Browse the cards below to learn what each one means, then jump straight to games that use it.

• Worker Placement Send your limited workers to claim the best actions before rivals do. Learn more
• Deck Building Start with a weak deck and shape it into a powerful engine card by card. Learn more
• Dice Rolling Roll dice for outcomes, then make smart choices with whatever luck gives you. Learn more
• Hand Management Play the right card at the right moment and make every card count. Learn more
• Area Control Compete for influence across the map and hold the regions that score. Learn more
• Tile Placement Draw and lay tiles to build a board that grows differently every game. Learn more