Common Terms for Board Games

Basic Terms

Board:

The playing surface where the game is conducted. It often features a grid, paths, or other markings that dictate gameplay.

Player:

An individual participating in the game. Players take turns making moves or decisions according to the game's rules.

Turn:

A single round of gameplay in which each player has the opportunity to make moves or take actions according to the game's rules.

Objective:

The goal or winning condition of the game. Players typically strive to achieve specific objectives to win the game.

Game Components

Tokens:

Small pieces used to represent players, resources, or other elements within the game. Tokens can be made of various materials, such as plastic, wood, or cardboard.

Dice:

Polyhedral objects with numbers or symbols on each face, used to introduce randomness or determine outcomes in the game. Common types include six-sided (d6), eight-sided (d8), and ten-sided (d10) dice.

Cards:

Rectangular pieces of cardstock containing information, instructions, or actions relevant to the game. Cards may represent characters, resources, events, or other game elements.

Tiles:

Square or rectangular pieces used to construct the game board or represent terrain, locations, or other features within the game world. Tiles may be arranged or rotated to create different configurations.

Game Mechanics

Roll-and-Move:

A game mechanic where players roll dice to determine how many spaces to move their game pieces along a track or path on the board.

Set Collection:

A game mechanic where players collect sets of matching or related items, such as cards or tokens, to score points or achieve objectives.

Worker Placement:

A game mechanic where players assign their game pieces, often called "workers," to different locations or actions on the board to perform specific tasks or gain benefits.

Auction/Bidding:

A game mechanic where players compete to acquire resources, properties, or other game elements by bidding with a virtual or in-game currency. The highest bidder typically wins the item or privilege.

Game Play

Setup:

The process of arranging game components, such as placing the board, distributing cards, tokens, or other pieces, and determining starting conditions before the game begins.

Strategy:

The overall plan or approach adopted by a player to achieve the game's objective. Strategies may involve long-term planning, resource management, and adaptation to changing game conditions.

Player Interaction:

The ways in which players engage with each other during the game, such as through negotiation, cooperation, competition, or conflict. Player interaction can significantly impact the dynamics and outcomes of the game.