Absolute Control
Players must achieve total dominance over an area or resource in this mechanic. Risk is a prime example, where absolute control over territories determines the winner and requires strategic planning and risk-taking.
Tile-Laying
Tile-laying involves placing tiles to create patterns, networks, or territories. Carcassonne popularized this mechanic, where players strategically place tiles to expand their influence while scoring points for completed features like cities or roads.
Network Building
This mechanic challenges players to create interconnected systems, like transportation routes or resource pipelines. Games like Ticket to Ride excel here, encouraging players to efficiently link locations while blocking opponents’ plans.
Set Collection
Set collection is a board game mechanic where players aim to gather groups of similar items—such as cards, tiles, or tokens—to complete sets. Sets typically earn players points or rewards, with different sets often having unique values or abilities.
