Closed Drafting: Beginner Friendly Board Games

Sushi Go! is a delightful card drafting game where players create the best sushi platter by choosing and passing cards. Each round offers a variety of choices, such as sashimi sets, nigiri with wasabi, or pudding for dessert. The adorable artwork and easy-to-understand rules make it an instant hit with new players. The closed drafting adds excitement as you try to guess what your opponents are collecting while planning your own delicious meal.

This streamlined version of the classic 7 Wonders lets players draft cards to build magnificent wonders of the ancient world. The game simplifies the decision-making process, focusing on clear goals like military strength, science, or cultural achievements. Closed drafting plays a key role as players pass options, making every choice feel impactful. With bright visuals and fast turns, this game is perfect for families or casual gamers who want a taste of strategy without the complexity.

In Kingdomino, players draft domino-like tiles to expand their kingdoms, matching terrains and earning points based on crowns. The game’s closed drafting system lets players choose tiles while passing the rest, forcing them to balance immediate needs with long-term strategy. Its intuitive rules and quick gameplay make it an excellent introduction to drafting mechanics, offering depth without overwhelming first-timers.

This vibrant card game has players drafting cards to create unique scoring opportunities, represented by quirky salad recipes. Each card can either be used as a scoring condition or as a vegetable in your set, creating a constant tension between immediate benefits and long-term goals. The closed drafting mechanic ensures that every card passed to your opponents could potentially help or hinder them, adding a fun layer of interaction. The game’s fast pace and flexible strategy make it beginner-friendly and endlessly replayable.

Splendor is a classic game of gem collection and engine building, where players use closed drafting to acquire gem cards and reserve development cards. Every decision is simple—choose a card or take gems—but the interactions between player choices make it fascinating. Beginners appreciate its straightforward rules and satisfying progression as they build their gem economy to claim prestige points and noble patrons.

In Draftosaurus, players draft adorable dinosaur meeples to fill enclosures in their park, scoring points based on placement rules. The closed drafting system creates suspense as players choose a dinosaur and pass the rest, trying to outwit opponents who might compete for the same scoring strategies. Its colorful theme, light strategy, and fast rounds make it an ideal choice for families or those new to board gaming.

Cat Lady casts players as feline enthusiasts competing to adopt the most adorable cats while collecting food, toys, and costumes to keep them happy. The closed drafting mechanic keeps things exciting as players must prioritize feeding their cats while denying valuable cards to their opponents. The lighthearted theme, combined with its easy setup and playtime, makes it a favorite among casual gamers and animal lovers alike.

This unique tile-drafting game has players working with their neighbors to build two cities simultaneously. Drafted tiles are placed into shared city grids, and players must balance cooperation with personal strategy to maximize their points. The closed drafting mechanic creates intriguing dilemmas, as your choices impact both your cities and your opponents’ plans. With its accessible rules and cooperative elements, it’s a fantastic game for new players looking for something a bit different.

Herbaceous is a serene card game where players draft herbs to pot them into sets for points. The closed drafting adds tension as players must decide whether to pot early and secure points or risk waiting for better combinations. The game’s beautiful artwork and calming pace make it an excellent choice for beginners who want a more relaxed yet strategic experience.

While primarily known as a tile-laying game, Azul incorporates a closed drafting mechanic where players choose tiles from shared factories and pass the rest. This creates a constant interplay between selecting what you need and denying valuable tiles to your opponents. The elegant gameplay, stunning components, and intuitive rules make Azul a standout choice for introducing new players to the drafting genre.