In the latest session we started by playing ‘Parfum’, the
game Elaine particularly liked and bought at Games Expo this year.
As previously discussed this seems to be a simpler version
of another game, ‘Fresco’, using similar mechanisms with a different theme.
There is no limit on resources so the decisions revolve around choosing turn
order and judging the potential availability of both fragrances and customers.
The rules are quick and simple, so game play is fast and enjoyable. Chris won
the game and the scores were evenly spread out; I trailed in last place (the
Dice Gods have yet to forgive me!).
Next we played a couple of games of ‘Roll for the Galaxy’.
This was a bit of a spur of the moment decision for me which meant that I had
to explain the rules in an ‘off the cuff’ manner, and on reflection I could
have done it better. As a result I think both Elaine and Val were a bit unclear
about the game and its objectives to start with. This is a game I really like,
whereas Elaine is a bit put off by the SciFi theme, and I was pleased when all
players wanted to immediately play a second game after they began to understand
the game flow. Chris immediately picked up the game mechanics and won both
outings! I think the trick is to ignore the theme (it is not that strong) and
appreciate the simple mechanics and the combo’s available as your empire
builds. Once you get going the game plays fast, almost to the point that it
could (almost) be considered a ‘filler’ game. I would like this game get to the
table more often.
