I was lucky enough to visit Columbus, Ohio this year for the Origins Game Fair 2015. It was a great experience and look forward to going again next year. Gen Con, however, is a whole other beast. I will unfortunately not be present at this years Gen Con but I look forward to all of the goodies that Dan will be bringing home for us to play. Really that’s the best plan for us Nonsensical Gamers. We can just let him deal with the mad rush and stampedes to get the new hotness. I just hope that these five are ones he is able to get his mitts on.

5. Mystrium

I was able to play the original version and had a lot of fun. I look forward to see what Asmodee does with the US version. I hear there are some added elements that make this one fresh.

4. Trambahn

Matt introduced this one to me since we were able to get an early copy at Origins. I really enjoy quick, easy and clever 2 player games that I know my wife and I will enjoy playing. Trambhan has simple game play with a simple goal but the decisions that need to be made down the line can get very difficult and will have you rethinking your strategy.

3. Ashes: Rise of the Pheonixborn

I know little to nothing about this game. I know its pretty. Has cards and some dice, but that’s about it. However, all of the other nonsenicals hype this one up so I am officially hyped to try this one.

2. Takenoko: Chibis

My mom officially loves “the panda game”. I always have to be sure that this is in my bag on a game night at her house because she will want to play it at least 2 or 3 times. Adding an expansion will for sure breathe some new life in this beautiful and clever little game.

1. Above and Below

I unfortunately missed out on the kickstarter for this one. The combination of card drafting, worker placement and story telling is geniously combined along with fantastic artwork. The replayablity and visual appeal for Above and Below is top notch. I am always on the lookout for games that my wife and I will love to play and I think this will be one of those for sure.