As an adult, you might find it surprising to say that work can indeed be fun and games, especially when it comes to worker placement tabletop games. These games allow you to guide your team through various tasks and adventures, all while working towards end goals. With a variety of themes and worlds to explore, the choices are endless. Here's a curated list of some of my favorite worker placement games, including both recent releases and timeless classics.
TLDR: The Best Worker Placement Games to Play Now
Viticulture
0See it at Amazon!
Yokohama
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Unconscious Mind
0See it at Asmodee Store!
Wayfarers of The South Tigris
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Darwin’s Journey
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Fromage
0See it at Allplay Store!
The Gallerist
0See it at Eagle-Griphon Games!
Septima
0See it at Mind Clash Games!
Rock Hard: 1977
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Age of Comics: The Golden Years
0See it at Amazon! If you're eager to dive into the games without the details, check out the side-scrolling catalog above. For those interested in learning more, keep reading.
Viticulture
Viticulture
0See it at Amazon! Ages: 14+ Players: 1-6 Play Time: 45-90 mins Viticulture, crafted by Jamey Stegmaier, known for Scythe, takes you on a delightful journey to Tuscany. Here, players inherit their family's legacy to build successful wineries. The game involves constructing vineyards, harvesting grapes, bottling wine, and selling it. Strategic use of workers throughout the seasons is crucial. Players progress through multiple years, enhancing their wineries and aging wine to meet orders. Enjoy Viticulture competitively or cooperatively with the Viticulture World edition (see at Amazon).
Yokohama
Yokohama
0See it at Amazon! Ages: 14+ Players: 2-4 Play Time: 90 mins Yokohama immerses players in the bustling port city near Tokyo, Japan. Your team of workers helps you establish and grow your business empire. Strategically gather resources, develop technologies, and fulfill orders to maximize success. Although the game has a moderate complexity, the gameplay flows smoothly once mastered. Ideal for 2-4 players, with optimal play at three, according to Board Game Geek.
Unconscious Mind
Unconscious Mind
0See it at Asmodee Store! Ages: 12+ Players: 2-4 Play Time: 60-120 mins (or longer) Unconscious Mind, a heavy Euro game centered around psychology and grief, is not only one of the most beautiful games I own but also deeply engaging. Its complex gameplay offers rich strategic layers in movement and timing. The Nightmares expansion adds further complexity for those seeking a challenge, while elements like fireworks and a gramophone lighter can soften the experience. Be prepared for a longer gaming session than the box suggests, as setup and teaching the game require additional time.
Wayfarers of The South Tigris
Wayfarers of The South Tigris
0See it at Amazon! Ages: 14+ Players: 1-4 Play Time: 60-90 mins Wayfarers combines dice with worker placement in a satisfyingly complex yet fun way. The integration of dice rolls with worker actions adds an element of chance that can lead to rewarding outcomes. Initially intimidating, especially for those new to heavier Euro games, it offers a wealth of decision-making and high replayability. A three-player game pleasantly surprised me with its depth and enjoyment. Don’t miss out on this gem.
Darwin’s Journey
Darwin’s Journey
0See it at Amazon! Ages: 14+ Players: 1-4 Play Time: 30-120 mins For those with a passion for exploration like Darwin, this game offers an exciting journey across three islands. Race against fellow explorers and Darwin himself to discover nature and science for a museum. Easy to learn and highly replayable, Darwin’s Journey is beautiful on the table and accessible online. However, the physical copy is a must-have, appealing to both seasoned and casual players alike.
Fromage
Fromage
0See it at Allplay Store! Ages: 14+ Players: 1-4 Play Time: 40 mins Perfect for social gatherings or solo play, Fromage is a delightful game about crafting and selling award-winning cheeses in France. Players build structures, tend livestock, and fulfill orders in this quick and enjoyable game. The Italian version, Formaggio, adds another layer of culinary delight, making it a must-try for cheese lovers.
The Gallerist
The Gallerist
0See it at Eagle-Griphon Games! Ages: 12+ Players: 1-4 Play Time: 120 mins The Gallerist immerses players in the challenging world of running an art gallery. Discover artists, display their work, and attract discerning patrons to your gallery. Be warned: this game, with a complexity rating of 4.24 out of 5 on Board Game Geek, is not for beginners. It mirrors the real-life art world's complexities, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Septima
Septima
0See it at Mind Clash Games! Ages: 12+ Players: 1-6 Play Time: 50-100 mins Septima's art captivated me, especially as a fan of gothic aesthetics. This accessible game revolves around witches, focusing on building covens, collecting herbs, brewing potions, and surviving witch trials. Despite the trials of losing allies, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The game's solo mode is equally engaging, and the expansion adds shapeshifting with beautifully designed artwork.
Rock Hard: 1977
Rock Hard: 1977
0See it at Amazon! Ages: 14+ Players: 2-5 Play Time: 90 mins Rock Hard: 1977, created by Jackie Fox of The Runaways, lets you unleash your inner rockstar. With stunning components, including an amp-shaped player board and favorite head icons, this game was a fan favorite at Gen Con. Be aware, though, it contains heavy themes that might not be suitable for all players, reflecting the sometimes harsh realities of rockstar life.
Age of Comics: The Golden Years
Age of Comics: The Golden Years
0See it at Amazon! Ages: 13+ Players: 1-4 Play Time: 50-120 mins If you're a fan of comics, Age of Comics: The Golden Years offers a thrilling experience. Build a catalog of comics during the Golden Age by hiring artists, writers, and inkers. Compete against other players to create and publish comics, reaching fandom and success. The pulpy art adds to the charm, and the game is accessible even to non-comic fans. It's one of the easiest games on this list to learn, playable solo or with up to four players, best with three.
