2017 has seen some of the world’s biggest tech manufacturers releasing powerful games consoles like the Nintendo Switch and the Microsoft Xbox One X.
But despite the incredible graphics and innovative gameplay that’s a key part of these games machines, there are plenty of people who are keeping it old-school and helping traditional table games and boardgames enjoy a fresh lease of life.
Thanks to enterprising places like the Dice Cup Cafe it seems that many people are attempting to turn off their screens and get back to the simple pleasures of classic board games like Game of Life and Scrabble.
And it’s not just people looking to play old-fashioned games like Cluedo over a cup of coffee that are building the board game revival, as organisations like the Sheffield Board Games Club are ensuring that even more obscure board games like Manhattan Project are starting to find new fans.
In addition to this, it seems as though the fantasy board-gaming phenomenon is still going from strength to strength. Thanks to places like The Outpost, fantasy fans can enjoy playing games like Warhammer 40K in a great setting with likeminded players.
Whilst video games are clearly here to stay, it’s great to see how these old-school boardgames are surviving in the modern era. Not only do they provide a way to socialise and get out of the house, but the games all feature the all-important aspects of skill and luck as a way of keeping gamers entertained.
Of course, there’s still a big audience for traditional card games too. From the likes of Sheffield Bridge Club who take part in many national events, to some of the more low-key poker sessions that provide plenty of entertainment, it’s clear that it’s not just online casino websites like InterCasino who give us the chance to enjoy some classic card games like blackjack.
But perhaps it’s chess that still has the greatest power to keep us away from the computer screen. This iconic game has been around for centuries and enjoys a fantastic reputation for the way it taxes our strategic abilities. And with local organisations like the Sheffield and District Chess Association on hand to help us improve our chess skills in a competitive and friendly setting, there’s never been a better time to join in the fun!
