5 board games with a digital brain and 5 analogue alternatives for down-to-earth players
15.8.2016
Translation: machine translated
More and more board games are being given digital components. In addition to the game board, the figures and the dice, so-called companion apps are intended to improve the gaming experience and create more atmosphere. We show you five digitalised board games and five alternatives for those who prefer to play without a power socket.
1. XCOM
XCOM goes all-in with the digital companion. The board game is based on the tactical game series of the same name, in which a group of specialists must stop an alien invasion. Compared to other board games, XCOM cannot be played at all without the app. It is a central component and provides instructions, keeps track of time, monitors the budget, provides decisions and acts a bit like the game master. This makes the gameplay much easier when completing missions with up to four players, researching new technologies and protecting the world from power-hungry aliens.
2. Scotland Yard Master
Most people will be familiar with the Scotland Yard game. What's new about the Master version is the option to play in pairs. One player can take on the role of the wanted Mr X. The app is optional and includes instructions as well as a trial game and also serves as a notebook. The detectives can also use the camera to scan the game board, aim at radio towers or conduct interviews. On top of this, the app provides suitable sound support.
3. Doctor Panic
Teams of up to three players can try their hand at Doctor Panic as budding doctors. The teams have twelve minutes to successfully operate on their patient. However, there may be incidents or calls from the director, which are simulated by the app. Alternatively, you can also play a sound file via the homepage. However, the app is much more intuitive.
4. One Night Ultimate Werewolf
Three to ten players take on different roles with their own special abilities. Someone plays the werewolf to be lynched. The well-known game is now also available with app support. The app explains the game moves and creates a creepy atmosphere thanks to the atmospheric soundtrack.
5th Golem Arcana
Pen and paper is replaced by tablet and Bluetooth pen in Golem Arcana. The tabletop game with its miniature figures benefits significantly from the optional app. Not only does it bring the figures to life, it also helps with the controls and shows which moves are possible. Especially in tabletop games, which are often slowed down by maths and rules issues, an app like this makes life easier. Golem Arcana is the ideal tabletop game for beginners who like to throw themselves into battle with powerful fantasy figures, not least thanks to the digital shooting assistance.
Analogue alternatives
Now digital gimmicks are not equally popular with all board gamers. Some people prefer the traditional version without the app gimmicks. We have a few game tips for them too.
1. Pandemic Legacy
In this co-operative game, which is constantly evolving, everyone takes on the role of an explorer. Together you try to save the world from deadly viruses. The depth of the game makes it more suitable for advanced players.
2. Machi Koro
Machi Koro shows what happens when a game developer dares to create a board game. The aim is to build a city. The first player to complete their four major projects wins. Beautifully illustrated playing cards and a large portion of luck characterise Machi Koro.
3rd Trivial Pursuit 2000s
Everyone knows the quiz game. As the name suggests, the 2000s edition is dedicated to the 2000s. Entertaining fun in which there are definitely no questions about German poets of the 18th century.
4. cranium
Cranium is a mixture of Trivial Pursuit and Tabu. There is also the option of using modelling clay to guide players to the correct solution in this question and answer game.
5th Legend of Andor
Another game in which the players pull together. In a fantasy setting, there are various tasks to master and powerful monsters to defeat. A lot of tactics and coordination are required if you don't want to bite the dust. Extremely varied and always motivating thanks to the team concept.
Philipp Rüegg
Senior Editor
Philipp.Rueegg@digitecgalaxus.chBeing the game and gadget geek that I am, working at digitec and Galaxus makes me feel like a kid in a candy shop – but it does take its toll on my wallet. I enjoy tinkering with my PC in Tim Taylor fashion and talking about games on my podcast http://www.onemorelevel.ch. To satisfy my need for speed, I get on my full suspension mountain bike and set out to find some nice trails. My thirst for culture is quenched by deep conversations over a couple of cold ones at the mostly frustrating games of FC Winterthur.