Spiel des Jahres - how the jury chooses games (Topic Discussion)

Spiel des Jahres - how the jury chooses games (Topic Discussion)

Author: Tabletop Games Blog June 16, 2026 Duration: 9:57

Every year, the announcement of the Spiel des Jahres nominations leads to a lot of discussion across our hobby. Some people agree with the choices, others question why certain games were not included, and many try to predict the eventual winners. What most people don't realise when they discuss the nominations is that the jury does not gather for a single weekend to decide the best game of the year. No, jurors spend many months playing hundreds of new releases several times with different groups of people. It is a lot of work that often goes unnoticed, but that explains why the award continues to carry such influence nearly fifty years after it began. In the second article of the series, I look at this in more detail.

Read the full article here: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2026/06/16/spiel-des-jahres-how-the-jury-chooses-games-topic-discussion/

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Music

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Music: Madeira Dolphin Tour
Produced by Sascha Ende
Link: https://ende.app/en/song/13711-madeira-dolphin-tour

Music: Deep House Underscore 005
Produced by Sascha Ende
Link: https://ende.app/en/song/13702-deep-house-underscore-005

Music: Sunday Morning Coffee
Produced by Sascha Ende
Link: https://ende.app/en/song/13693-sunday-morning-coffee

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(Photo courtesy of Spiel des Jahres)


Dive into the world of modern board gaming with the Tabletop Games Blog-board game reviews and discussions with a personal touch. This isn't a formal critique from afar; it's a conversation at the table. Each episode unpacks a specific game, whether it's a brain-burning strategy title, a clever indie gem, or a chaotic party favourite that gets everyone laughing. The discussion goes beyond simple rules explanations to consider how a game feels to play, the artistry of its components and table presence, and the unique experiences it creates around the table. Since starting in 2018, the podcast has built a library covering everything from dexterity challenges and card games to expansive hobby board games, always with an accessible, personal perspective. The focus is on genuine insight over a rigid schedule, so from 2025 onwards, episodes arrive when they're fully ready, ensuring every review and thought piece is thoughtful and complete. It’s crafted for players of all types, from those just discovering modern games to seasoned enthusiasts looking for their next favourite. You'll find honest reflections on gameplay and design, making this podcast a reliable companion for deciding what to bring to your next game night.
Author: Language: en-gb Episodes: 50

Tabletop Games Blog - board game reviews and discussions with a personal touch
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