The Trend Towards IP-Based Spinoffs and Rethemes at Gen Con 2024

The flip side of this year’s success was that the roster of new titles didn’t quite measure up to what I consider an ‘average’ Gen Con slate. We saw more IP-based spinoffs and reskins than ever, a trend that seems here to stay. Additionally, there were numerous new editions or rethemes of older games, which can be great for bringing something out of print back into circulation or improving a decent game. However, these often overshadow entirely original ideas, much to the chagrin of those of us who crave innovation.

That said, I still encountered plenty of exciting new games, even if I barely managed to fit them all in my luggage—note to self: always bring a second suitcase. And then, as if by fate, I returned home to find a review copy of another game I had admired at Gen Con waiting for me.

My Top 10 Favorite New Board Games from Gen Con 2024

Here are my top 10 favorite new games from Gen Con 2024. These are all entirely new titles, as I gave preference to original ideas over the best rethemes and all-new editions I encountered (shout-out to Harvest, Skyrise, and Gold West).

1. Rock Hard 1977

Publisher: Devir

Designer: Jackie Fuchs

Theme: 1970s Rock Star Ambition

Mechanics: Worker Placement, Set Collection

Why It’s a Hit: Rock Hard 1977 was hands down the best game I saw at Gen Con. The theme is incredible, and the mechanics are both novel and well-integrated. The game perfectly balances the pursuit of rock stardom with the mundane aspects of life, offering players a truly immersive experience. Designed by Jackie Fuchs, who you may know as Jackie Fox from the legendary rock band The Runaways, this game is a must-play for any music enthusiast.

2. River of Gold

Publisher: Asmodee

Theme: Trading Along the River

Mechanics: Light Euro, Resource Management

Why It’s a Hit: Set in the universe of Asmodee’s Legend of the Five Rings, River of Gold offers a simple yet engaging gameplay experience. Players compete to collect and deliver valuable resources along a river, with quick turns and easy-to-understand choices that make it accessible and enjoyable for all.

3. Let’s Go! to Japan

Publisher: Alderac Entertainment Group

Designer: Josh Wood

Theme: Japanese Travel Adventure

Mechanics: Set Collection, Time Management

Why It’s a Hit: Inspired by designer Josh Wood’s own planned trip to Japan, Let’s Go! to Japan captures the excitement and challenges of exploring Tokyo and Kyoto. The game’s stunning artwork and thematic depth make it one of the most visually appealing and immersive experiences at Gen Con.

4. Little Alchemists

Publisher: Czech Games Edition

Theme: Magical Experimentation

Mechanics: Scenario-Based, Midweight Strategy

Why It’s a Hit: Little Alchemists offers a streamlined, midweight version of CGE’s popular game Alchemists, making it more accessible while retaining the strategic depth that fans love. With seven scenarios that gradually introduce new rules, this game is perfect for both newcomers and experienced players.

5. Faraway

Publisher: Pandasaurus Games

Theme: Traveler’s Journey

Mechanics: Unique Card Play, Reverse Order Activation

Why It’s a Hit: Faraway has generated buzz for its innovative mechanic where players activate their cards in reverse order. This creates a compelling challenge as players must plan their moves carefully to avoid unintended consequences, all while navigating a beautifully illustrated world.

6. Nova Roma

Publisher: 25th Century Games

Theme: Building Byzantium

Mechanics: Worker Placement, Area Control, Contract Fulfillment

Why It’s a Hit: Nova Roma combines several popular mechanics into a well-rounded game about building the city of Byzantium. With variable action selection and strategic depth, it offers a satisfying experience for fans of historical and strategy games.

7. Tower Up

Publisher: Monolith/Pegasus

Theme: City Building

Mechanics: Simple Rules, Strategic Scoring

Why It’s a Hit: Tower Up is a game that combines simplicity with strategic depth. Players build towers in a city, competing to place their pieces strategically for maximum points. The quick turns and elegant rules make it a hit for both casual and serious gamers.

8. Life in Reterra

Publisher: Avalon Hill

Theme: Variable Terrain Building

Mechanics: Tile-Laying, Drafting

Why It’s a Hit: Life in Reterra stands out for its huge variability, thanks to the double-sided terrain tiles and buildings. The game offers a fresh take on tile-laying and drafting, with enough complexity to keep each playthrough engaging and different from the last.

9. Vale of Eternity

Publisher: Renegade Games

Theme: Summoning Magical Creatures

Mechanics: Card Drafting, Resource Management

Why It’s a Hit: Vale of Eternity offers a fast-paced card-drafting experience where players summon magical creatures and manage their resources. With a short playtime and engaging mechanics, it’s perfect for players looking for a quick but satisfying game.

10. Fairy Ring

Fairy Ring from Asmodee is a family-friendly game with enough depth to keep adults entertained. Players draft mushroom cards and move their fairy token to score points. The anticipation of how other players’ moves will affect your strategy adds a fun twist.