Spiel Des Jahres - Mind Games

Spiel Des Jahres is the most prestigous award given in the gaming world. Nominated yearly, the winning game is chosen by a jury of board game critics in Germany. It is likely this award had a heavy hand in Germany becoming known as the birthplace of Euro gaming. Games such as Settlers Of Catan (1994) and Carcassonne (2001) are shining examples of games selected for the Spiel Des Jahres, and being awarded brings prestige and popularity to nominees.

Starting in 1978, the Spiel was awarded to the most excellent family-friendly game using the criteria of concept, rule structure, layout and design. This may have also helped drive the value of art and design in a game; more recently prolific award winners become celebrity in their own right. Names such as Knezier (Keltis 2008), Cthala (Kingdomino 2017) and Rosenburg (Agricola 2008) are well known recipients of the award.

As the award ages it has seen many changes but as at 2022 the following categories exist:

Game Of The Year - Generally family friendly and not overly complex or niche.

Connoisseur Game Of The Year - More complex and generally aimed at enthusiastic gamers.

Children's Game Of The Year - Something for the little guys.

This years' nominees were announced on May 23, 2022:

Cascadia (Kosmos)

Scout (Oink Games)

Top Ten (Cocktail Games)

The winners are usually announced around November.