Closed Drafting

Closed drafting is a staple in many modern board games, offering players a balance of strategy, intuition, and adaptability. In a closed draft, each player starts with a small set of hidden options, such as cards, tiles, or tokens. Players simultaneously choose one option to keep, then pass the remaining options to their neighbor (usually in a circular or linear fashion). The process repeats until all options are chosen or discarded. What sets closed drafting apart from its open drafting counterpart is that the players have limited visibility into others’ choices, adding a layer of mystery and psychological strategy.

This mechanic shines because it operates on multiple levels. First, it demands careful resource management—selecting something too early might mean wasting an opportunity, while waiting too long might result in losing out entirely. Second, it tests players’ ability to read the room. While the drafting pool remains hidden, observing opponents’ actions, tendencies, and visible game states can provide clues about their priorities.

Closed drafting is highly flexible and can accommodate various game styles, from quick card games to complex strategy games. For example, in 7 Wonders, players draft cards that contribute to their civilization’s development, with categories spanning military, science, and commerce. The hidden nature of closed drafting ensures that each draft influences long-term planning, creating both competition and uncertainty.

This mechanic often works seamlessly with others. It’s commonly paired with set collection (e.g., Sushi Go!), Tableau building (e.g., 7 Wonders), or resource management mechanics (e.g., Terraforming Mars). These pairings add depth, as players must consider both immediate and long-term benefits while drafting. Closed drafting is a simple yet deeply strategic mechanic that challenges players to think ahead, adapt to uncertainty, and occasionally gamble on outcomes. It’s a surefire way to keep games engaging and unpredictable!