In Above the Table we will cover discussions of all things gaming related. This column also gives the Meeple bloggers a thinly veiled excuse to occasionally wax philosophical and indulge in some hopefully entertaining navel gazing.

Today’s column is written by guest blogger, former Assistant Innkeeper at Ravenwood Castle, and occasional Malted Meeple Game Master Abigail Kutscher.

If you’re anything like I used to be, then the term “board game” brings to mind those classics such as Monopoly, Scrabble and Clue. If these games sum up your experience, it is time for you to take a look at The Malted Meeple’s board game library. With over 175 titles, it is still just a taste of all that hobby gaming has to offer.

As a newcomer to gaming, and especially if you are being shown the ropes by a veteran gamer, the world of hobby gaming can be intimidating to say the least. Some games can take upwards of 3 hours to play, not  to mention role playing games whose campaigns can literally span years! Then, there are all of the rules (have you seen some of those tomes they call rule book?!) and all of the pieces; it is definitely a lot to take in.

But don’t be daunted! Here are my top three reasons to give hobby gaming a shot.

First of all, there is truly something for everyone. Here at The Malted Meeple, we have games that include everything from Zombies to Nuns, games that take place from Tokyo to England, and games that have players doing everything from taking a trip through Japan to quarreling over loot with fellow mobsters. There are long games and short games; there are real brain-busters and silly fun games. There are games for friends, couples and families. The list goes on!

Not only is there something to spark your interests no matter how diverse, but games are a fun way to connect with people in a new and different way. Playing board games together helps you learn things about each other that you may never have had the chance to learn otherwise. Cooperative games provide a fun arena in which you can work together. [Who knew your partner would be so adept at scavenging for supplies during a zombie apocalypse?] On the other hand, competitive games provide a rather unique opportunity for some good-natured rivalry.

Finally, hobby gaming is simply a fun alternative when your other go-to activities are getting stale. Tired of binge-watching Netflix every night after work, going to the same bar every weekend with your friends, or always going out to eat for date night? When my friends and family and I get stuck in a rut, we always know that we can spice up our routine with a night – or day – of gaming! It’s something that you can do in the comfort of your own home or in a social setting such as The Malted Meeple. You can do it with just one other partner or with a whole group. And best of all, it can be a different experience each time!

So there you have it, my top three reasons to give hobby gaming a shot. Don’t be afraid to start with smaller, simpler games to test the waters – or jump right in with a more challenging game. Whatever you choose to do, remember that the staff here at The Malted Meeple are ready and willing to help you choose a game, learn a game, or simply have a fun experience trying something new.

We hope to see you soon!