My First Solo Games!

[@BeforeYouPlay]

Please let us know what some of you favorite solo games are, we'd love to try some more in the future!

[@JonArt_As_Board]

Maybe some Lacerda games, or Nemo's War. Love that youre doing this!

[@JonArt_As_Board]

oh you said this at the end lol, i played the gallerist solo last week mostly to learn it and it awesome.

[@zhivik]

One more vote for Nemo's War, it is a great solo experience. It is an adventure board game, where you take on the role of Captain Nemo, travel with his submarine all over the world, manage his crew and try to evade or sink enemy ships. The game offers you several playing modes (four in the base game), which determine your goal and your playing style, ranging from science or exploration to full-on war. Amazing implementation of the theme, great mechanics, and it takes no more than a couple of hours when you get the hang of it. It also has a co-op mode, so Naveen could join if he wants to :) Regarding solo modes of multiplayer games - Ark Nova has a fan-made solo mode, ARNO, which is surprisingly good. In the official solo mode, you basically need to reach a score target in a fixed number of turns (27, if I remember correctly). It is very similar to what Terraforming Mars does. In the ARNO mode, you get a bot, with its own action cards, so you can actually compete with it. Even better, it works if you want to put a second bot into play, to make it even more interesting. I am honestly not very impressed with Wingspan's solo mode, it feels very clunky. It is also too easy unless you have the Oceania expansion, which raises difficulty. Meanwhile, the solo mode in Lost Ruins of Arnak is very good, especially if you print out the additional bot cards that are available on the publisher's site for free, they offer more difficulty levels that make the game challenging enough. I can also recommend the solo mode in Paladins of the West Kingdoms, it is easy to run, but it can be very challenging at higher difficult levels. Personally, I win only on easy difficulty :) As people mentioned in previous comments, any LCGs (or other expandable card games) are suitable for solo play, like Arkham Horror (which I recommend for the story), Marvel Champions or Lord of the Rings. Fantasy Flight is currently reprinting older card packs, so they are easy to get. Another option is COIN games, where the other factions can be run by a bot, so if Rodney can send you his copy of Cuba Libre, you could try it on your own:) Finally, if you really want to go down the rabbit hole, there are war games, or choose-your-own-adventure books. The latter are not expensive, and there are some really great ones, some using a lot of RPG mechanics. I can recommend Blood Sword, a 5-book fantasy series by Dave Morris from the 1980s, where you manage a 4-member party, with tactical battles, abilities, magical items, etc. The whole series is currently available on Amazon for about $60, the first one is $9 if you want to try it. Edit: I forgot something important - the Undaunted series has a great solo mode! It comes with Undaunted: Reinforcements and it requires one (or both) of the first two instalments, Normandy and North Africa. However, it is very well designed (by David Turczi, by the way) and offers a great experience.

[@Jojocacawete]

Hello I would say , under falling skies , mini rogue and the hadrien’s wall are amongst my favourite ! Really nice that you’re looking into the solo games world !!

[@pangolinnewyork]

Black Sonata is great! Also The Lost Expedition,Voyages, and Sprawlopolis if you're looking for smaller games. As far as solo modes of bigger games, yes Ark Nova solo is fantastic, as is Scythe, Viticulture World, and A Feast For Odin. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on more solo games!

[@paulhamrick3943]

One of the nicest things about playing a game solo is having so much time to think about your turns without feeling pressured to hurry.

[@suemoore7779]

Concordia Solitaria is one of the best designed solo modes I have ever played. The solo mode for A Feast for Odin is also well done. Obsession and Genotype have great solo options as well.

[@TheBoardGameGarden]

Monique! I am so happy to see you getting into solo gaming more! 🥰👏🏻 Excited to see more. Sorry Naveen! 😂 I definitely recommend checking out Hadrian’s Wall, Isle Of Cats, Lost Ruins Of Arnak and Viticulture solo! Oh also The Castles Of Burgundy!

[@mattmeola]

New solo mode for CoB is shaping up to be an improvement from the core solo mode in the anniversary edition! Will definitely be the way to play solo when it gets released.

[@getgaymin]

seconding Isle of Cats as a GREAT solo mode

[@craigandrews7544]

@@mattmeola where can I find the new solo mode?

[@teaNgames]

If you're getting into solo games then you *must* dive into Button Shy games! They do super-compact solo & 2-player games. (The 2-player often have a solo mode.) And expansions! Don't forget the expansions! Scott Almes designed an (ongoing) series of solo only games for Button Shy, but they've got a ton of others that are also brilliant!

[@jacobmartin9679]

Button Shy games are great for this! I really like Food Chain Island (and Sprawlopolis)

[@pawesome98]

Spirit Island and the FFG LCGs (namely Arkham Horror LCG) are fantastic solo games in my opinion. I have also heard great things about Under Falling Skies and Ark Nova so I'm excited that you're going to review them!

[@JerryTeo33]

Black Sonata is quite the unique solo deduction / hidden movement game where you are searching for Shakespeare's Dark Lady.

[@jimtompkins9946]

Great suggestion. I really enjoy this game. Solo hidden movement/deduction - who'd have thought? My copy from TGG Games doesn't list a designer but I believe it is by John Keane. - several publishers.

[@jamesbrazeal3847]

love Black Sonata

[@davidbarny607]

It's such a great game, and quite a unique theme too! This game is a little miracle, it should not work and yet it does!

[@ChrisCypher]

Yes! Such a clever design with those cards!

[@joelcole161]

@@jimtompkins9946 Yup, the designer's name is John Kean (there's no "-e" on the end)

[@nirszi]

Hadrian's Wall and Obsession are great solo games, I highly recommend. Also there are many games without official solo modes but fantastic fan made ones on BGG. I love the fact that your are getting into solo games. It's a wonderful world with a great community both on Facebook and BGG.

[@linettem]

Omg, 2 games I love solo, also Wingspam because the game is so beautiful 😀

[@nirszi]

@@linettem Fun fact, I'm playing Wingspan solo right now. For the third time. Fun game.

[@Andalosity]

I think you mean Hadrian's Wall?

[@linettem]

@@Andalosity yes

[@nirszi]

@@Andalosity oops fixed

[@richardhancock1505]

Great to see a solo focus Monique. My favourite solo games include: A Feast for Odin, Ark Nova, Dune Imperium, Tapestry, Lost Ruins of Arnak.

[@itsGabrielaCristina]

Solo gamer here! My current solo faves are Spirit Island, Bloody Inn, Wingspan, and Viticulture.

[@Chereebers]

Love the Bloody Inn 👍

[@itsGabrielaCristina]

@@Chereebers it’s such a good game! And I’ve been loving it at all player counts!

[@SteveinJersey1234]

Absolutely love your new foray into highlighting and reviewing solo games! You and Naveen are among the board game content providers whose play-thrus and opinions I enjoy and respect the most, and I look forward to seeing what you have to say about the new solo games you mention at the end of the video. Thanks!

[@clementhossaert5234]

Hi Monique, love that you're starting that solo journey! You and Naveen are well versed in complex games, crunchy euros. I would love to see you tackle one of the Rosenberg games solo, but also, one of the crunchiest solo out there: Mage Knight! Maybe not for a playthrough, maybe just to hear your thoughts. I know Wizkids recently rereleased the Big Box with all the addons, and a great solo mode with Volkare. Anyway, I really liked this format!

[@j0ana1978]

Hadrian’s Wall, Spirit Island, Terraforming Mars Ares Expedition, Wingspan, Paladins, the bloody inn, Obsession, the lost Expedition, Marvel Champions, 7th Element.

[@mattmeola]

Yayyy solo games! I play a ton of solo games since it just fits my schedule better. Current favorites: - Spirit Island - Classic for solo. Much different vibe vs multi since you can't lean on others for help. You really have to play to the strength of your spirit. - Boon Lake - I actually prefer solo over multi as I think it flows better. My favorite Pfister solo. - Any Garphill game. They all have EXCELLENT solo modes. - Herbaceous - Great 5 minute solo game. The boardgame equivalent of playing a quick game of solitaire or minesweeper on your computer. - Fields of Arle - When i want a euro sandbox but don't have time for AFFO. Chill euro experience. - Nusfjord - When I want a quick crunchy euro. Plays in 30 minutes. - Food Chain Island - My favorite button shy game for solo. - Bullet Heart/Star - Really like the score attack or boss rush modes. Great bejeweled style abstract puzzle with an anime skin. - Any Vladimir Suchy - All the solo modes I've played have been solid. Underwater Cities is my favorite, I dig Messina 1347, and am currently learning Praga Caput Regni. Annnnnd that's a lot of favorites so I'll stop there 😂

[@kirabouwerviraltyd]

It's so cool you're going into solo games, it's actually 95% of how I experience board games. Right now I'm really enjoying the solo mode of It's A Wonderful Kingdom, and The Lost Expedition is also a favourite of mine. Thanks for the video! 😊

[@ChrisCypher]

Spirit Island is what made me appreciate solo games, so that's my suggestion. Such a wonderful puzzle to work through (especially not having to worry about taking too long for someone else). I started with just one spirit and then started playing two-handed to capitalize on their teamwork.

[@LinneasCabal]

Solo games are so wonderful and I'm so excited to see you diving in! I would love to see more solo content. My favorite solo games constantly change, but here are a few I'm loving right now: Hallertau, Rome & Roll, and Fantastic Factories. For some great travel-size games check out Button Shy! They have a whole solo line of games and many of their non-solo games have solo expansions. Keep up the great work, I love your content!

[@josephbehar573]

For solo games I like Palm Island and Finished. For MP games with solo mode - It's a wonderful world and Mint Works. From these 4 IaWW is probably the best solo, but requires a lot of shuffling between the games.

[@brendatakabe6851]

I am primarily a solo gamer (95% of my plays are 1-player). I found that I actually am not a fan of solo only games but solo mode of many multi-player games are so much fun and challenging (I now am the happy owner of just over 100 multiplayer games that have a solo mode). My top 10 games as of today are: Terraforming Mars, Ark Nova, Paladins of the West Kingdom, Obsession, Cascadia, Feast for Odin, The Red Cathedral, Carnegie, Everdell & Hadrian’s Wall. I can't wait to see what games you try to solo next!

[@cjfreddy]

My favorite solo games are Spirit Island, A Feast for Odin and Marvel Champions! I kinda gotta be in a a very specific mood to jump into Spirit Island because it’s A LOT, which is usually why I default to Marvel Champions if I want to play a quick game. Dale the Casual Gamer here on KZbin is my go to for solo gaming content, he has a great set up and really goes through games quick.

[@bookaddict777]

I just played The Guild of Merchant Explorers this morning using the Cnidaria map, which I had not played before. I love this game too. Those special cards saved my bacon today!

[@irvinrules]

My favorite solo is Mage Knight. But these are also good: Spirit Island, A Feast For Odin, Terraforming Mars, Cartographers, Friday, Calico, Hadrian's Wall, Gaia Project.

[@liquefiedpork]

Some of my favorite solo games are Black Sonata, Marvel United, Freedom: The Underground Railroad and Spirit Island. I've notice a lot of co-op games play great solo.

[@subafiam1987]

What I can truely recommend from my own experience: Spirit Island (2-handed), Viticulture (with Tuscany), Ganz Schön Clever. On my wishlist are: This War of Mine, Hadrian’s Wall, CO2, Kanban EV, Anachrony, Trickerion

[@jacobmartin9679]

CO2 is brilliant solo. I prefer playing the 2P co-op mode over straight solo rules, but it feels like a puzzle that is very satisfying to crack

[@mirandav2803]

I'm getting more into solo games and I love it! One of my favorites to play is Horrified. I find that because it's a co-op, the gameplay doesn't change too much when you try solo. But it's still a lot of fun! And of course I love the Cascadia solo edition.

[@estefaniagarcia2885]

Yay - solo board gaming is so fun! I would highly recommend Coffee Roaster and Riverside. One Deck Dungeon is also very cool!

[@barakgordon9349]

Welcome to the solo gaming world and community where you may play by yourself, but you are never lonely. My favorite solo game (and favorite all around) is Spirit Island. I also love playing A feast for Odin, Scythe, underwater cities, and Fleet the dice game. Recently got Cascadia and CO2 second chance and starting to dive into them. Have fun

[@bsademax5135]

One of us! One of us! 😀 Monique, I know you're a fan of heavier euros, so I highly recommend the solo modes for A Feast for Odin (very relaxing, very simple solo mode, but still a satisfying puzzle); Paladins of the West Kingdom (uses a moderately complex AI deck to simulate an opponent); and Kanban EV (this one has the most complicated AI opponent, but it's great once you get the hang of it). Some other notable goodies are Lost Ruins of Arnak (very easy to run AI), Gaia Project (more advanced AI, similar to Kanban) and Pax Pamir Second Edition (complicated AI, but GREAT game). And lastly, for something completely different, Explorers of the North Sea (with the Rocks of Ruin expansion) is the most relaxing solo game in my collection. There's no Ai, you just try to beat your own high score, so there's very little pressure, and it's just incredibly satisfying to create your own little archipelago replete with farm animals and little buildings and whatnot. Setup and teardown only take like a minute each; It plays quickly (30-40 minutes); and it's crunchy but not, like, super crunchy, so it's a great before-bedtime game. I highly recommend it, and I think it doesn't get nearly as much attention as it deserves!

[@daneia0011]

I play predominantly solo, and some of my current favorites are: Architects of the West Kingdom, Wild Serengeti, Raiders of the North Sea, and Karuba (using a fan made solo variant on BGG). Maquis and Sunset over Water are also two I really enjoy. Sometimes I'm happy to play a game two-handed, and I especially like playing Pandemic solo that way.

[@Chereebers]

Agree with Obsession and Spirit Island as solo experiences! Portal Games is coming out with a new solo only expansion for Imperial Settlers: Empires of the North and I’m really excited about it.

[@marie-charlenelaflamme6240]

I love love solo games! My favorites are Ark Nova, Hadrian's Wall, Robinson Crusoe, Concordia: Solitaria, the West Kingdoms Series, Everdell, Cascadia, Vinhos and Brass Birmingham with the Mautoma available on BGG. I'm looking forward to try the On Mars's solo mode.

[@latinoosvaldo]

I would love to see you play Spirit Island solo mode, as well as A Feast for Odin! And welcome to the realm of solo players!

[@phk975]

Spirit Island is amazing as a relatively pacey and deep solo game. Also can't forget classics like Pax Pamir 2 and Mage Knight. Latest intriguing solo for me has been Imperium: Classics/Legends.

[@osmoduh]

Right now I am playing Lands of Galzyr solo. It is a great story-driven adventure game and works very well solo. And whenever my wife wants to join me for a game session, she can just hop in and play her own character.

[@embrew]

Im just getting into solo games, but Obsession has a fun solo mode! It’s a very similar experience to playing with others. Parks is also a lighter solo game for a more relaxing environment.

[@lanceware2417]

Thanks so much, Monique, for this. I am getting into solo mode myself. Some games I have played and enjoyed are Paperback (as a one player co-op mode), Spirit Island, Calico, Trogdor, and Maracaibo. Would love to see more videos on this topic.

[@gabthang8]

I started playing games solo more often since I moved back home after college and don’t have a consistent game group (I graduated two years early so outside of breaks in semesters, most of my friends/game group are away at campus). I typically play smaller games solo just because there’s little setup. Some of my favorite smaller solo games are: - Capital Lux 2: Generations - The Bloody Inn - Sagani - Rush MD For bigger games that I also enjoy quite a bit solo: - Castles of Burgundy (even though your edition doesn’t have the solo mode) - Bonfire - The Magnificent I’m planning on doing a Solo Board Game Night either tomorrow or next weekend to try out my new games that also have a solo mode, so we’ll see how they go. Currently on the agenda, I have: - Hippocrates - First Rat - Ghost Stories - Streets - Explorers

[@WakeUpSmellTheCoffee]

Nice! Solo gaming is a whole entire niche on its own. It’s so good when you’re in the mood for it.

[@kreggie891]

I have no idea why this video showed up a year later since I have been subscribed for years, maybe I just missed this one. But I would definitely recommend Totally Tabled KZbin channel for solo gaming. He does an excellent job of explaining the games and does a wide variety of games from light to heavy, including Lacerda games.

[@Barrick47]

I love solo gaming and all of the above are great recommendations. I want to put a plug in for Gaia project and Spirit island (my two favorite solo games). If you love heavy euro games but want something thematic where you have an actual opponent, these are the best!

[@rj5sents]

I play a lot of solo games! Most of my gaming is played after the family all go down for bed. Sometimes I can leave a big one out, like Mage Knight, or I’ll play a quick game or two of Orchard!

[@barbaramazzocca4605]

I recently played The Guild of Merchant Explorers for the first time. It's a solo whether you are playing with others or not! I really liked it, easy to play but very thinky.

[@manic2360]

As someone who mostly plays solo, really pleased to see this...youve got lots of recommendations already so il just add that Spirit Island is also great played solo.

[@JimBro317]

Hi! I play everything I have solo. My last session was five attempts at "The Lost Expedition." The player (that's ME!) is trying to lead a party of 3 explorers to the Lost City of Z, but I haven't made it yet. It's basically a card game, with most of the cards drawn giving a choice of which of your resources to lose, then you die. That's my short version of what happens when I play. It was published in 2017, I believe, but has shown up this month in Barnes and Noble. Small game, small table footprint. BTW, all of the six of the explorer cards are based on real people, two of whom were central characters in "The River of Doubt," which I read just this year. This note has gone on too long - sorry! Cheers!

[@MarkB-uu5we]

Monique - yes as others have said, great to see you play some solo games. Some youtube channels - one stop coop shop is a fave, and even paul grogan and heavy cardboard stream solo plays of multiplayer games. Suggestions for games - first, like Paladins and second edition Great Western Trail, maybe look at games already in your collection you are either really eager to play with Naveen (and thus get a bit of a heads up lol) or ones you already really enjoy like some of your Uwe games to test their solo modes etc out. Second suggestion - I personally like the mid to heavier weight games so Underwaters Cities (essentially a BYOS - beat your own score - although you have to meet a minimum criteria like have 5 cities constructed), Teotihuacan (Turzi inspired), Lost ruins of Anark, Maracaibo and others. Third suggestion - speaking of David Turzi - many games he has had a hand in to make a solo version of which you can seek out. T game series best known. Then there are autobot type games like Stonemaieirs Wingspan (as you mentioned), Scythe, Viticulture, Red Rising etc and then others which can easily be played solo like Rollplayer (+ Rollplayer Adventures), Sagrada, Sleeping Gods, Waste Knights, Auztralia. Fourth suggestion - coop games like Horrified, Forbidden Island/Desert, Pandemic games, Legendary Marvel/Alien/007 etc, Robinson Crusoe, Nemo's War, or ones which are best or made for solo like Hadrians Wall, Fleet the Dice game (which then you try Three Sisters), Brew, Warps Edge (if you like Underfalling skies), Resist! and Hostage Negotiator and Final Girl series. You will get plenty of other suggestions of course, but you should perhaps look into Final Girl if you like the teenage girl horror film genre, Hadrians wall, Fleet the Dice game (which you can then play with Naveen) and others you want to play :-)

[@mrsmack5429]

I see that some others have already mentioned Button Shy Games. Also, Hadrian's Wall, Fleet the Dice game, and Castles of Burgundy (big box) has an excellent solo mode.

[@joshkable]

Great video! I really want to check out Sunset over Water now, and Maquis looks cool! I really enjoy playing Wingspan, Sprawlopolis (also a bonus because it is so small), Isle of Cats, and Terraforming Mars solo. Coffee Roaster is a fun push your luck solo only game that is quick. I have also found that most coop games tend to work well solo.

[@bogdanvreja6454]

My favourite solo game is Terraforming Mars. Because the goal of the game is the same - terraform Mars- it just feels natural and interesting. There is no artificial automa and no rules alterations that I usually find distracting in other games.

[@psoirila9201]

Two more indie solo games which I have very much enjoyed (though I rarely do any solo-gaming) are Crystallo and (Blight Chronicles:) Agent Decker (originally a pnp, which got then Kickstarted into the physical Blight Chronicles version). -Crystallo is a puzzly card laying game where you're trying to surround crystals which appear on cards with appropriate sets. -Agent Decker is a really thematic scenario based deck builder with a branching story and some nice elements of developing your deck etc. between scenarios. In a few more complicated scenarios the rules get a bit tricky but other than that it's fantastic and manages to pull of solo deckbuilding in a surprisingly appealing way. Also heard good things about the upcoming For Northwood! which would be a solo trick-taking game.

[@denisgiles]

Great solo game: Crystallo! (If it hasn't already been mentioned)

[@TheBoardMeeting]

Solo game recommendations. Hadrians Wall, Terraforming Mars, Everdell, Welcome to the Moon, Viscounts of the West Kingdom, Under Falling Skies, Sprawlopolis, Trails of Tucana, Mining Colony, Circadians First Light. Have fun solo gaming!

[@matthewroadnight208]

Welcome to solo. Really excited to see you try the Lacerda series. David Turczi is a fantastic solo designer. Also all Stonemaier Games have a solo mode.

[@tamiraloush7236]

Great video! I will join the others with recomending you try the solo version of the games you have. Most of the games by Shem Phillips have great solo variants right out of the box, the same with Vital Lacerda, and a lot of the T-series games. Another cool option is co-op games, anything from pandemic and spirit island to gloomhaven or robinson crusoe. Oh, and of course, Mage Knight, amazing puzzly solo if you like that type of games.

[@hecatesson]

Solo player here! I love playing board games with others, but sadly it's difficult to get people together to play sometimes. I first have to suggest that if you have not tried Button Shy Games they have some fantastic solo games. Most of the games below are purely solo, but they do gave some that play multiple players as well. Ugly Gryphon Inn, Food Chain Island, Numbsters, Tides, and Ragemore are some of my favorites. They are usually around 18 cards only for a game and fit right in your pocket. I absolutely love Maquis and have ordered Black Sonata also. Wingspan also has a great solo mode to it, along with Hickory Dickory, Tiny Epic Dinosaurs, Tiny Epic Galaxies, Terraforming Mars Ares Expedition, Moonrakers, Eldritch Horror, Meadow, and one of my newest favorites....Power Plants! The above games also play multiple players as well except for Maquis and Black Sonata which is strictly solo.

[@CG_Hali]

Great to see you get into solo modes. I'm mostly a solo player. Wingspan and Ark Nova have low-maintenance fast AI, great choice! Also, don't limit yourself to official ones. Look at your fav games and check BGG in Variant forum or Files. There are many good fan-made ones. Most coops are doable solo if you play 2-handed. Note about Paladins: the AI is very time consuming (a lot of upkeep). You end up spending so much time on it, you forget what you were focusing on. Once you try it you'll know if you mind the upkeep or not. If you do, then you should be wary of games that claim a solo mode but which fans mention are a lot of upkeep. If you have the other games from the West Kingdom, I'd start there instead. They are much easier to handle: Architects is a breeze, and Viscounts is not easy to beat (manuscript AI if you want a real challenge). Raiders of Scythia is great easy as well.

[@petergross7235]

Welcome to the solo club! I also like Maquis a lot, but it is very difficult. The linen finish on the box can be quite slippery! I recommend you check out Fields of Arle and Obsession for their solo modes. Both of them are quite fun.

[@akshayagarwala8991]

Yay! Getting into solo games was a lot of fun for me. The first game I played solo was Dwellings of Eldervale simply bc I was too excited to wait for a multiplayer session. It wasn't overwhelming to my surprise and have tried out other solo games since! Maquis was a lot of fun and felt like an unique design. Dune Imperium has a nice solo mode where you play vs 2 bots. WP is my favorite mechanism which all of these game have! I just tried out Viscounts solo yesterday. I usually play games solo to get a better grasp of the rules since I find it easier to teach after getting a play in.

[@franciscorojas8088]

+1 on Dune Imperium's solo variant. It's just awesome and actually feels like playing against another player

[@bq1179]

I've enjoyed watching you and Naveen over the past couple of years. The content is great, but admittedly, Before You Play was never one of my go-to channels since virtually all of my gaming is solo. This is a potential game-changer! 😍

[@robyn_m]

I tried Friday, but simply didn't enjoy it. I do love Orchard [solo only] and Calico, though. Coffee Roaster is also quite enjoyable. I'm also looking forward to trying Grove, which is a sequel of sorts to Orchard. Happy gaming, Monique!

[@Zym1l]

Your channel has replaced my Netflix session for the past 3 weeks. And I am halfway through your lacerda series. Makes me wanna dive into lacerda games. My concern is getting people to learn and play it with me. Might need to play solo if no-one is willing to play. So really looking forward to your solo review of all lacerda games. And probably Rank it again? Thanks Monique

[@joshuamartin1690]

Just throwing more votes in for Hadrian's wall and spirit island, so great solo. The LCGs are also all great, Arkham horror, marvel champions and lord of the rings card game. The one stop Co-Op shop is the best channel for solo content imho. The unapologetic nerdy excitement that Colin exudes is just always a joy to watch.

[@MW-jt3ds]

This is great! I've been exploring solo games/ modes lately and it's really interesting because I have a 10 year history of learning what i like and don't like in multiplayer games but now with solo games i get to start fresh because the experience can be so different. Ones I love are Coffee Roaster, Food Chain Island, and Super Skill Pinball. I recently tried the solo mode for The Gallerist which was fun but i definitely prefer non-solo for that one.

[@getgaymin]

I reeeeeally wanna get my hands on a copy of Coffee Roaster, I've heard nothing but amazing things!

[@dkoudrin]

Feast for Odin ftw

[@carlagiannioudis621]

So happy you are venturing into solo games! I solo frequently, it started when I was learning games for my game group, then realized how much I enjoyed it and found it so relaxing. I just recently aquired the game Dulce, which is a very quick, puzzly game that I can not get enough of, but I also love digging into some of the heavier Rosenburg, Lacerda, and Shem Philips games as well.

[@darbyl3872]

Maquis looks smaller than, but thematically related to Pavlov's House. I recently learned PH, and it's a fun (and historical) "traditional" war game, and accessible for people not used to war games. It's my one and only "war game", and I like it. A second and third player can participate, but their parts are just secondary, not doing much.

[@cindykee3719]

I really like solo games that have multiple levels of difficulty that you can choose to play so you don't run into that issue with having to complete everything to win in solo. Spirit Island, Arkham Horror LCG, The Librarians Adventure Card Game, Cascadia - those are what come to mind right now. Good to see you diving into solo gaming - I don't buy games that can't be played solo since gaming at home is all solo for me. 😀

[@jacobmartin9679]

Really cool to hear your thoughts on solo gaming! I’ve played a lot of solo games, including big runs of a number of titles. Some of my favourites: - CO2: Second Chance (70 plays) - Mr Cabbagehead’s Garden (200 plays) - Ark Nova (50 plays) - Spirit Island [3-handed] (20 plays) - Sprawlopolis (40 plays) - Factory Funner (40 plays) I’ve also really enjoyed Calico, Wingspan, The Colonists, Under Falling Skies and Kanban EV

[@sylvieroets4214]

So happy that you will go to Essen. It will be my first visit to Spiel and I hope to meet you!

[@DanielRodrigues-tp2mk]

Underwater Cities!!! Such a challenge, constant tention untill the end, and almost no wins 😅

[@christinegodefrooi5823]

Hi Monique! I recommend Warp's edge. A solo bag building game included with a choose-your-path storybook!

[@pedrorabelo6045]

I really like and enjoy the solo mode of Agricola, Great Western Trail and Terraforming Mars. I really recommend it!!

[@jacobmartin9679]

Ooh, I do like the GWT solo mode

[@sAKecOkE]

I felt the same about Maquis (so super difficult!) until I realized not all workers are supposed to go to actually useful locations - instead, use at least one (sometimes two!) workers that are where they are purely to block patrols to "park" there, and thus secure a way back. Ideally, those blocker workers also do something semi useful while blocking the location :)

[@richardhancock1505]

I have ONLY played Ark Nova solo and it is absolutely brilliant!

[@joellen5984]

Love that you are enjoying solo games - It's a huge part of my game life. I use it to relax and recharge. Ark Nova solo is great (as is the fan made ARNO variant on BGG), There are so many good games!! Terraforming Mars, A Feast for Odin, Carnegie, Floriferous, Skulls of Sedlec, Viscounts of the West Kingdom, Creature Comforts. So many! I've got the Lacerda's mostly for solo and just dug into Kanban EV (learned it at Strategicon a couple of weeks ago). Favorite solo youtube channels would be Totally Tabled, Slickerdrips, jplays, Paul Grogan from Gaming Rules, Tom Teaches, and Edward from Heavy Cardboard. Jon Gets Games sometimes has solo type content as well. Can't wait to see more!

[@bryanscollick8305]

Thank you for this solo games video. As a result, I recently purchased Maquis and I am thoroughly enjoying it. Great puzzle, great theme, easy to play, hard to master. In three games I am 2-1.

[@cjazerjay]

I know you are working on the Uwe series still, but A Feast for Odin is a very solid solo experience. Would quite enjoy a play thru or your opinion on a play thru at the very least. I am a solo only board gamer, so I'm very interested in following your solo career! I would recommend the solo board gaming sub reedit as well, lots of good stuff going on there!

[@timopsaarinen]

Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island

[@dtelquess]

Will keep a look out for Marquis.

[@Dehalove]

The arkham horror card game is a blast when you want something to play over the course of a week!

[@Mike_James]

Mindclash, CTG, or Lacerda games are likely all solo games you'd enjoy.

[@perezoso9206]

Troyes has a very interesting solo mode. Really good!

[@darenreeves1465]

I play a lot of solo. Long time watcher first time commenting btw. As Solo only games go I enjoy coffee roaster and nemo's war. I enjoy Hadrian's wall which is a multi-player roll and write with an awesome solo mode.

[@Poiuytrew.Q]

My current go-to solo games are Wingspan, Rolling Realms, 60 Second City, Ares Expedition, Cartographers, and Rove. Cascadia, Project L, Empires of the North are good too. I’m going to play Ark Nova maybe later this week.

[@susanoerter1419]

I am 90% a solo player. Ark Nova is my favorite. I also play Viticulture solo. I enjoy playing multiple players in my solo play of railroad games like Empire builders, Euro Rails, etc.

[@ChadHensley]

My current favorite solo games are Great Western Trail Second Edition and Obsession, both of which play just as well with multiple players. I have quite a few and since some major life changes that occurred in pre-COVID 2020 I now limit most of my purchases to games that at least offer a solo mode. A game has to be really special for me to buy without a solo mode. Welcome to the solo gamers club!

[@rickrivera827]

Project L is a fun and quick solo experience

[@tracieperez2629]

Thanks Monique! Great list. I love Sunset over Water don't really hear many people talk about it. I actually just got Maquis, and really look forward to playing it. I'm also excited to see you play Under Falling skies. Have you tried Proving Grounds by the same company? Black Sonata, this is a clever hidden movement solo only game. Also, Rove and Food Chain island which are button shy games and if you own Project L and Super Mega Lucky Box they have solo modes as well. Lastly, check out Liz Davidson's KZbin channel for some solo recommendations.

[@BeforeYouPlay]

Haven’t tried too many solo games, so always love getting recommendations! I’ll look into both Proving Grounds and Black Sonata (lots of ppl recommended this one). ☺️

[@frankphysio4858]

Hi Monique!!! Thanks for those suggestions❤ My favorite solo actually: 1- Coffee Roaster (very nice on the table and so fun while drinking a Coffee). 2- Friday I Just backed a Kickstarter: Black Hole, a french solo game from Yossef Fahri. The game seems incredible.

[@linettem]

I'm a solo gamer, my husband likes to play somedays but usually I play solo and I LOVE all the Vital Lacerda games, highly recommended!! I play a lot of Wingspam and Hadrian's wall bc easy and quick setup. Hadrian's wall is chef kiss*

[@bernan1]

Some of these games have really good apps online so it's easier to take them wherever and play a quick game.

[@garyfaust6769]

My favorites to solo are Loot of Lima, Parks, The Grizzled, & Root.

[@jdotco23]

I don't usually prefer solo-only games; I like games that come with robust solo modes that still play similarly to the multiplayer version of the game. Games like Empires of the North and Paladins are good. I finally got Endless Winter, and it has a solo mode, too, so I'm excited to try it, as well.

[@jacobmartin9679]

My 9yo son got into solo gaming a couple of years ago with Gloomhaven (running 2-3 heroes against random dungeons or scenarios). Now he’s moved onto Ark Nova and Under Falling Skies and really seems to enjoy it. It’s really helping with his resilience, particularly when he loses :)

[@markusbiewer2756]

Hi Monique, it's great that you're getting into solo gaming! Hope to see more solo videos in the future!

[@MidnightCarp]

Excellent video - - lets be honest, Naveen was clearly holding you back! I found Cascadia is a good game solo as its essentially just the same multiplayer solo game but when its yourself its less downtime. Agree, Maquis is an excellent game.

[@sylvieroets4214]

I am also (sometimes) a solo player. My 2 favourite solo games are Wingspan and Kanban EV.

[@ChrisLogsdon]

Thanks for the fun video! I've loved Uwe Rosenberg's games for solo! They usually tell you what good/bad scores are, and there are little to no rules changes. Nusfjord is one of my favorites for this! Coffee Roaster is a super fun solo-only push-your-luck bag builder. For something crunchier, the Pax Pamir 2nd edition solo mode is fascinating!

[@laszlomezo8621]

Lisboa, Co2, On Mars, Scythe, Paladins of wk, Journeys of middle earth, Gaia project…

[@SergioGVasco]

I play Lacerda games solo. I only have four games in my collection so far: Nemesis, On Mars, Lisboa and Kanban EV. They're all different and not to everyone's tastes but, i love them all and i love playing them all alone. In fact, i always play alone. I'd love to see more solo content on your channel, one of the best for sure. Have lots of fun and take care!

[@lucianazaharia4894]

Hi Monique. I will also love to see a solo playthrough with you.