A Holiday of Games: Christmas 2024
This Christmas was a unique one for my family. While the holidays are usually bustling with traditions, this year took a slightly quieter tone since I was quite sick. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to be there, but hearing about the games they played and the laughter they shared brought a bit of joy to my otherwise quiet holiday. Here’s a rundown of the games they played, the memories they made, and the overall hits of their holiday gaming spree. Im sure there were more games played but these games stood out for them and seem to be hits overall.
Rock Hard 1977
Rock Hard 1977 a game about working to become a rock star in 1977. Players navigate the music industry making decisions that shape their journey to fame. They only played this once but it was a strategic and eye opening experience the CANDY in the game was discussed a lot .
River Valley Glassworks
River Valley Glassworks followed, and its focus on collecting glass from the river and creating the most beautiful collection of glass was a refreshing change of pace. While they only played it once, it left a lasting impression, especially on those who enjoy games with a strong aesthetic and strategic depth.
Hues and Cues
They also managed to squeeze in a round of Hues and Cues, a game that challenges players to describe and guess colours. This one led to some amusing misinterpretations (apparently, my sisters description of "Coral " didn’t resonate as much as she thought it would). It was a fun, lighthearted game that brought out everyone’s creative side, though it didn’t quite top the charts .
Crokinole
Crokinole was new to us this year, and it quickly became a hit. They hosted a small family tournament, and the competitive spirit was off the charts. The satisfying flick of discs and the clatter of strikes filled the house with energy. It’s a game that’s easy to learn but hard to master, making it accessible and challenging for everyone. Plus, it’s just so satisfying to sink those perfect shots!
Catapult Feud
Next, they dove into Catapult Feud three times, and it was an absolute blast. There’s something timeless about launching tiny projectiles at your opponent’s castle. It brought out the playful, mischievous side of everyone, and the epic rebuilds between rounds added to the fun. It’s a game that’s simple but incredibly satisfying, especially when you manage to topple an entire structure in one go.
King of Tokyo
The true star of the Christmas gaming lineup was King of Tokyo. They ended up playing this five times, and it never lost its charm. The mix of dice-rolling chaos and monster battles brought out everyone’s competitive side. From my brother in laws unexpected knack for strategic energy accumulation to my husbands relentless attack rolls, every game was a riot of laughter and suspense. It’s safe to say this was the overall hit of the holiday season.
A Memorable Holiday Despite the Sniffles
Even though I wasn’t feeling my best and couldn’t be there, hearing about my family’s joy turned Christmas into a celebration of laughter, creativity, and connection. Each game brought something unique to the table, from nostalgia and strategy to chaos and creativity. And while King of Tokyo claimed the crown for the most-played and most-loved game, every single one added its own touch of joy to their holiday.
As the year comes to a close, I’m grateful for these moments. They reminded me that even when things don’t go as planned, the love and laughter of family—fuelled by a little friendly competition—can make any holiday special. Here’s to more games, more laughs, and (hopefully) a healthier start to the new year!