Catan

Quick Takes:  3-4 players    60 - 90 minutes   Ages 14+  Level 1 (easy to learn, easy to play, and FUN!)

This is the game that kicked off the broader category we think of as "new classics". A new classic is an approachable game (not too many rules, doesn't takes days to play) that involves common strategy elements from classic board games (Risk/Monopoly) but is updated with new themes or objectives. Catan, like Dominion, inspired a whole new generation of game designers.

In this multi-award winning game, the goal is to establish economic dominance on the island of Catan by building settlements, cities and roads across the hexagonal tiled board. Catan works well for 3-4 players. Larger groups should check out the extension, which allows for 5-6 players.

Each turn begins with a roll of the die which determines which resources the island produces and on each turn the respective player can play their resource cards to build road, settlements or upgrades (like turning a house into a hotel). Players score points based on their builds and the game ends when a player reaches 10 points. You have to be strategic with where you build because sometimes you just need wheat but all you get are sheep.

Looking for a way to play with littler gamers? Check out Catan Jr. for a kid-friendly version of this classic. Looking for more Catan variety? Try our favorite Catan Expansion Seafarers