How to explain a board game well for the first time ever

There are very few things that can make you seem incoherent like attempting to explain a board game. 

Even I think that explaining board games is a nightmare, and I basically explain things for a living. Whether it's in-game economies, social manipulation strategies, or just memorizing all the pieces, most learners get overwhelmed. 

To get better at explaining board games, think of teaching a board game like drawing a map for someone. You need to clearly describe the destination and the route, but avoid unnecessary information so that the learner doesn’t get lost. 

Describe the destination.

When you start on a journey, it makes sense to know where you’re going, right? 

Do not: bring up any mechanics, playing cards, or puzzle pieces yet. These will only distract the group, especially the inebriated ones.

2. Give them a sense of the major landmarks. 

Think of the gameplay as the major landmarks of a map- unless someone understands what the major landmarks are, they can’t get to their destination. 

Do not: give too many details at this stage- this is the fastest way to lose your group. Even if they ask detailed questions, do not answer them until you are sure everyone understands the gameplay first.  

3. Go into the details last, and let the group discover some on their own.

This is the right time to connect what the group has already learned to new details such as resource economics, deception maneuvers, or veto powers.

Do not: explain every little thing. Not only will people not remember it, part of the fun of learning is discovering something for yourself. 

The next time you get people together to play a board game, follow these steps to make learning the new game easier for them (and you!). Save the cheat sheet below to use as a guide.