My top 10 solo games for Essen Spiel 2024

Essen Spiel is just around the corner, and I couldn’t be more excited. Last year was my first time attending this massive board game fair, and I went in without much preparation. This year, I’ve done my homework and have a growing list of games I’m eager to check out.

As a dedicated solo gamer, I’ve been researching games that will keep me entertained during those quiet evenings when I have some time to myself. I thought I’d share my top 10 picks for solo games at Essen Spiel 2024.

So, let’s dive into this list. We’re starting with number 10, but don’t be fooled – even the last place on this list has me looking forward to playing it.

Designer: Laurent Guilbert, Jérôme Daniel Snowrchoff
Publisher: Super Meeple
Player Count: 1-4
Playing Time: 30-120 minutes

Doggerland takes us back to 15,000 BCE, to a time when you could walk from Great Britain to mainland Europe. It’s a fascinating period of prehistory that isn’t often explored in board games.

In this game, you’re guiding a clan, trying to leave your mark on history. It reminds me a bit of Paleo, but with its own unique mechanisms.

Here’s why I’m looking forward to Doggerland:

1. The modular board ensures each game is different. I always appreciate good replayability in a solo game.
2. The action programming mechanism adds a puzzle-like element that I enjoy in games.
3. Resource management seems to be tight and meaningful, which should make for interesting decisions.
4. The prehistoric theme, with activities like cave painting and raising megaliths, really appeals to me.
5. I like that your clan needs to migrate as resources deplete, adding a dynamic element to the gameplay.

The combination of worker placement and tile laying, set in this prehistoric backdrop, has certainly caught my attention. I’m particularly interested in seeing how the game handles the passage of time. Will we see our clan develop over generations, or is it more focused on immediate survival?

Doggerland looks like it could be a substantial game to engage with when I have a couple of hours free in the evening. I’m looking forward to trying my hand at guiding a prehistoric clan through the challenges of the Stone Age.

Designers: Maël Brunet & Julien Chaput
Publisher: Mindclash Games
Player Count: 1-2
Playing Time: 30-60 minutes

Ironwood caught my eye with its highly asymmetric gameplay and intriguing setting. It’s a tactical card game where two factions vie for control: the Ironclad, settlers of the iron mountains, and the Woodwalkers, swift shadows of the forests.

As a solo player, you’ll face off against a bot opponent, either defending your settlements as the Ironclad or fighting to reclaim the land as the Woodwalkers. This dual perspective really appeals to me – it’s like getting two games in one.

Here’s why I’m excited about Ironwood:

1. The asymmetric gameplay promises a unique experience each time you play, whether you’re the Ironclad or the Woodwalkers. I always enjoy games that let me explore different strategies.
2. The core mechanic of playing cards for either their action effects or combat values adds a layer of decision-making that I find engaging.
3. The modular board with different setups for mountains and forests should enhance replayability, which is crucial for a solo game.
4. The solo mode includes detailed bot behaviour for both factions, with different difficulty levels available. I appreciate when games put effort into creating a challenging AI opponent.
5. Multiple paths to victory, whether building forges as the Ironclad or securing totems as the Woodwalkers, should add strategic depth to solo play.

What particularly interests me about Ironwood is how it simulates the conflict between industry and nature. I’m looking forward to experiencing both sides of this struggle in my solo plays. It seems like the kind of game where each decision carries weight, and I can already imagine agonizing over whether to use a card for its action or save it for combat.

The combination of asymmetric factions, card-driven gameplay, and a well-designed solo mode makes Ironwood a promising addition to my collection. I’m curious to see how the game balances the very different playstyles of the two factions in solo play.

Designers: David Thompson and Trevor Benjamin
Publisher: Osprey Games
Player Count: 1-4
Playing Time: 45-60 minutes

Undaunted 2200: Callisto is the latest entry in the Undaunted series, and it’s taking the game in an exciting new direction. As a fan of sci-fi themes, I’m really looking forward to seeing how the acclaimed deck-building war game system translates to a futuristic setting.

Set on Jupiter’s moon Callisto in the year 2200, the game pits two factions against each other: the Lunar Frontier Authority (LFA) and a local mining group known as the “Breakers”. This conflict between established authority and local rebels is a classic sci-fi setup that I always enjoy.

Here’s why Undaunted 2200: Callisto has earned its place on my list:

1. The asymmetric gameplay between the two factions promises varied strategies and replayability. I love games that let me explore different approaches.
2. The core Undaunted system of deck-building to represent your forces is present. I’ve enjoyed this in previous Undaunted games, and I’m curious to see how it works in a sci-fi context.
3. The new elevation-based combat system using d8, d10, and d12 dice adds an extra layer of tactical considerations. This reminds me a bit of the terrain considerations in games like Mage Knight, which I really enjoy.
4. The variety of futuristic units, including personnel, mechs, and vehicles, appeals to my love of sci-fi themes. I’m looking forward to seeing how these different unit types interact.
5. The inclusion of multiple scenarios in a campaign-like structure is something I always appreciate in solo games. It gives a sense of progression and narrative.
6. The addition of environmental hazards like doors and buildings should add complexity to the battlefield. I enjoy when games make the environment an active part of the strategy.

What I’m most curious about is how the Undaunted system will feel in this new setting. Will the sci-fi elements fundamentally change the gameplay, or will it feel familiar to fans of the series? I’m also interested to see how the solo mode is implemented. The Undaunted series has always had strong AI opponents, so I have high hopes for this one.

The combination of the proven Undaunted system with new sci-fi elements and tactical considerations makes this a game I’m eager to try. It seems like it could hit that sweet spot of being complex enough to engage me for multiple plays, while still being streamlined enough for a weeknight gaming session.

Designers: Sheila Santos & Israel Cendrero
Publisher: Ludonova
Player Count: 1-2
Playing Time: 45 minutes

Flatiron caught my attention with its unique historical theme. As someone who enjoys games that transport me to different time periods, the idea of competing to construct the iconic Flatiron Building in early 20th century New York City really appeals to me.

In solo mode, you face off against Daniel Burnham, the actual architect of the Flatiron Building. I always appreciate when games incorporate real historical figures – it adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience.

Here’s why Flatiron has earned its spot on my list:

1. The historical setting in 1902 New York is fascinating. I’m looking forward to seeing how the game captures the atmosphere of this pivotal time in architectural history.
2. The AI opponent, based on Daniel Burnham and controlled by a deck of action cards, sounds like a clever way to create a challenging solo experience.
3. The card management aspect, involving street cards and city hall decrees, promises interesting decisions each turn. I like games that make me carefully consider how to use my cards.
4. Multiple scoring paths through construction, reputation, and fulfilling city hall decrees allow for varied strategies. This kind of flexibility is something I always appreciate in solo games.
5. The escalating challenge as Daniel’s deck cycles and he becomes more efficient is an intriguing mechanic. It should keep the game tense right up to the end.
6. The inclusion of thematic elements like the Paperboy mechanic and newspaper tokens ties nicely into the historical New York setting. I’m a sucker for games that really lean into their themes.

What I’m most curious about is how the game will capture the feel of early 20th century New York City construction. Will we see events from the time period influence our strategies? How will the game represent the challenges of building such an innovative structure for its time?

The blend of card management, resource allocation, and spatial puzzle-solving, all while competing against a thematically appropriate AI opponent, makes Flatiron sound like a game I could really sink my teeth into. It seems like it could offer that satisfying mix of strategy and theme that I love in my solo games.

I’m also interested in how replayable the game will be. With the AI opponent’s deck cycling and becoming more efficient, I wonder if each game will feel significantly different.

Designer: Stanislav Kordonskiy
Publisher: Board&Dice
Player Count: 1-4
Playing Time: 60-120 minutes

Minos: Dawn of the Bronze Age has me excited to dive into the world of ancient Crete. As someone who enjoys games with historical themes, the chance to lead the Minoan civilization is really appealing. Plus, it’s from Board&Dice, a publisher whose games I’ve enjoyed in the past.

In the solo mode, you’re up against Rhadamanthus, son of Zeus and Europa, in a battle for the throne. I always appreciate when solo modes incorporate thematic opponents rather than just a generic AI.

Here’s why Minos has caught my attention:

1. The dice drafting mechanism sounds intriguing. I enjoy games that make you adapt your strategy based on the available dice, like in Teotihuacan.
2. Multiple paths to victory through expanding influence, developing culture, or growing population offer strategic variety. This reminds me a bit of Tapestry, where you can focus on different aspects of civilization building.
3. The AI opponent, Rhadamanthus, seems to offer a solid challenge with its own priorities and decision-making processes. I’m curious to see how it compares to other solo modes I’ve played.
4. The decree cards, offering both immediate benefits and long-term strategies, sound like they could add an interesting deck-building element to the game.
5. I appreciate that the solo mode includes options to adjust the difficulty level. It’s always nice to be able to tailor the challenge as I get more familiar with the game.
6. The thematic solo narrative of competing against Rhadamanthus for the throne adds a nice storytelling element to the experience.

What I’m most interested to see is how the game balances its various mechanics. Will the dice drafting feel significant enough to drive strategy, or will the decree cards be the real stars of the show? I’m also curious about how the game represents the development of Minoan culture over time.

The combination of dice drafting, multiple strategic paths, and a historically-themed setting makes Minos sound like a game I could really enjoy. The 60-120 minute playtime also hits a sweet spot for me – long enough to feel substantial, but not so long that I can’t fit in a game on a weeknight.

As someone who enjoys many of Board&Dice’s games, I’m looking forward to seeing how this one stacks up. Their games often have a nice balance of theme and mechanics, which is something I really appreciate in my solo gaming.

Designers: Luke Laurie, Maximus Laurie
Publisher: Cardboard Alchemy
Player Count: 1-5
Playing Time: 90-150 minutes

Andromeda’s Edge has me starry-eyed with excitement. As a fan of space exploration themes, the idea of establishing dominance on the frontier of the Andromeda galaxy sounds right up my alley. It’s giving me some Twilight Imperium vibes, but potentially more accessible for solo play.

The solo mode, titled “The Struggle Against Unity,” pits you against the Unity AI, a powerful expanding empire. I always enjoy when solo modes have a strong narrative element, and this one sounds particularly thematic.

Here’s why Andromeda’s Edge has rocketed into my top 5:

1. The asymmetric AI opponent operating differently from player factions intrigues me.
2. Variable starting regions and events should ensure high replayability. This is crucial for me in solo games – I want to feel like I’m getting a fresh experience each time I play.
3. The multi-use tactics cards sound like they could offer some interesting decision points. I enjoy games that make you weigh up different uses for your cards.
4. Building station modules and upgrading ships for different strategic paths appeals to my love of engine-building in games. It sounds a bit like how you develop your tableau in Race for the Galaxy, which I really enjoy.
5. The event-driven narrative created by the event deck is something I’m really looking forward to. I love when games tell a story as you play.
6. The scalable difficulty with three levels of Unity AI commanders is a nice touch. It’s always good to be able to adjust the challenge as you improve.

What I’m most curious about is how the game balances its various systems. Will the exploration feel meaningful? How will the conflicts with the Unity AI play out? I’m also interested in seeing how the game handles the vastness of space in terms of player interaction and resource management.

The combination of space exploration, empire building, and event-driven narrative makes Andromeda’s Edge sound like a game I could really lose myself in for an evening. The 90-150 minute playtime suggests a meaty experience, which I appreciate in a game with this theme.

I’ve heard some people comparing it to Dwellings of Eldervale, which I want to play so much but haven’t had the chance yet. If it can capture that same sense of epic scale in a space setting, I think it could become a favourite in my collection.

Designers: Kristian Amundsen Østby, Eilif Svensson
Publisher: Aporta Games
Player Count: 1-4
Playing Time: 60-90 minutes

Saltfjord has really caught my attention with its unique theme. A game about developing a 19th-century fishing village in northern Norway? Count me in! As someone who enjoys games that transport me to different times and places, this one seems like it could be a real gem.

The solo mode offers a challenging experience against a dynamic system, which always piques my interest.

Here’s why Saltfjord has landed at number 4 on my list:

1. The dice drafting mechanism sounds intriguing. I enjoy games that make you adapt your strategy based on what’s available, like in Teotihuacan or Roll for the Galaxy.
2. Tableau building through tile placement is always satisfying.
3. The four technology tracks offering different benefits and abilities sound like they could add some nice strategic depth. I’m looking forward to exploring different specializations.
4. I appreciate that the solo mode includes achievements and a medal table. It’s always nice to have clear goals to work towards in solo play.
5. The thematic integration of fishing and village development mechanics appeals to me. I love when games really lean into their themes.
6. The compact decision space with relatively quick turns is a plus. It sounds like it could be a good game for those evenings when I want something meaty but don’t have hours to spare.

What I’m most curious about is how the game will capture the feel of a 19th-century Norwegian fishing village. Will we see events from the time period influence our strategies? How will the changing seasons affect gameplay?

The blend of dice drafting, tableau building, and resource management, all in a unique historical setting, makes Saltfjord sound like a game I could really enjoy. The 60-90 minute playtime is perfect for me – long enough to feel substantial, but not so long that I can’t fit in a game on a weeknight after the kids are in bed.

I’m also intrigued by the optional wagon mechanics for more experienced players. It’s always nice when a game offers ways to increase complexity as you become more familiar with it.

Designer: Jorge J. Barroso
Publisher: Perro Loko Games
Player Count: 1-4
Playing Time: 60-120 minutes

Phoenix New Horizon has soared into my top 3, and I’m really excited about this one. Post-apocalyptic themes always intrigue me, and the idea of leading a commando unit to rebuild civilization sounds like it could make for a gripping solo experience.

In the solo mode, you’re up against Project Kraken, an AI-controlled faction with its own agenda. I’m always on the lookout for solo modes that offer a challenging, thematic opponent, so this has definitely caught my attention.

Here’s why Phoenix New Horizon has landed so high on my list:

1. The asymmetric AI opponent, Project Kraken, with its own deck and rules, sounds like it could provide a unique challenge. I’m curious to see how it compares to other solo opponents I’ve faced.
2. The worker placement with promotion mechanic is intriguing. It reminds me a bit of Anachrony’s time travel mechanics, where your actions can become more powerful over time.
3. Multiple paths to victory through building regenerators, constructing buildings, or advancing technologies offer strategic variety. I love games that let me explore different strategies each time I play.
4. The tech tree development sounds like it could add some nice depth.
5. Short-term goals through missions and blueprints should keep each game feeling fresh and dynamic.
6. The scalable difficulty in solo mode is a big plus. It’s always nice to be able to adjust the challenge as I get more familiar with the game.

What I’m most curious about is how the game will balance its various systems. Will the worker promotion feel impactful? How will the conflict with Project Kraken play out over the course of the game? I’m also interested in seeing how the post-apocalyptic theme is integrated into the gameplay mechanics.

The combination of worker placement, tech development, and a dynamic AI opponent in a post-apocalyptic setting makes Phoenix New Horizon sound like a game I could really sink my teeth into. The 60-120 minute playtime suggests a meaty experience that could still fit into an evening gaming session.

To be honest, this is the game on my list that I know the least about, but everything I’ve heard has me really excited. The solo mode sounds robust, which is always a big draw for me.

Designers: Fabio Lopiano, Nestore Mangone
Publisher: Lucky Duck Games
Player Count: 1-4 
Playing Time: 60-120 minutes

Shackleton Base has rocketed to near the top of my list, and I’m over the moon about it (sorry, not sorry)! The theme of establishing a permanent lunar base on the South Pole of the Moon instantly grabbed my attention. As someone who loves both space-themed games and base-building mechanics, this seems like it could be a perfect match for me.

In the solo mode, you’re up against AstroBot, an AI-controlled opponent. I’m always keen to see how different games implement their AI opponents, so I’m really looking forward to seeing how AstroBot measures up.

Here’s why Shackleton Base has landed at number 2 on my list:

1. The modular setup with randomly selected corporations each game sounds great for replayability.
2. I’m intrigued by the multi-use worker placement where astronauts serve as both workers and resources. It seems like it could create some really interesting decisions.
3. The asymmetric player powers from the agency leader tiles that can be improved over time sound like they could add nice strategic depth. I love games that let you develop your unique abilities as you play.
4. The spatial puzzle of building structures on the lunar surface appeals to me.
5. I appreciate that the AI opponent, AstroBot, can be adjusted from easy to hard. It’s always nice to be able to tailor the challenge as I get more familiar with the game.
6. The relatively compact decision space with quick turns is a plus. It sounds like it could be a good game for those evenings when I want something meaty but don’t have hours to spare.

What I’m most curious about is how the game will capture the feel of establishing a lunar base. Will we face unexpected challenges? How will the harsh lunar environment factor into our decisions?

The combination of worker placement, spatial puzzles, and asymmetric powers in a lunar setting makes Shackleton Base sound like a game I could really enjoy. The 60-120 minute playtime hits that sweet spot for me – long enough to feel substantial, but not so long that I can’t fit in a game on a weeknight.

I’m particularly interested in seeing how the multi-use worker mechanic plays out. It sounds like it could create some tense decisions about whether to use your astronauts for actions or to power structures.

Designer: Tomáš Holek
Publisher: Czech Games Edition
Player Count: 1-4 
Playing Time: 90-120 minutes

SETI has claimed the top spot on my list, and I couldn’t be more excited about it! The theme of searching for alien life instantly captured my imagination. As someone who loves both science-themed games and the idea of space exploration, this seems like it could be a perfect fit for my tastes.

In the solo mode, you’re competing against a rival AI-controlled institution. I’m always keen to see how games implement competitive AI opponents, so I’m really looking forward to seeing how this one measures up.

Here’s why SETI has landed at number 1 on my list:

1. The thematic integration of searching for alien life sounds fantastic. I love when game mechanics really tie into the theme, and this one seems to do that brilliantly.
2. The multi-use cards remind me of some of my favourite games. I enjoy the tension of deciding whether to use a card for its effect, discard it for resources, or save it for income.
3. The exploration mechanics with launching probes, orbiting planets, and scanning for signals sound really engaging. It seems like it could create a great sense of discovery as you play.
4. I’m intrigued by the AI opponent that grows stronger over time. It reminds me a bit of the escalating challenge in Spirit Island, which I really enjoy.
5. The objective-based gameplay in solo mode sounds like it could add nice direction and tension to each game. I appreciate when solo modes give you clear goals to work towards.
6. The scaling difficulty with five levels is a big plus. It’s always nice to be able to adjust the challenge as you get more familiar with the game.

What I’m most curious about is how the game will balance its various systems. Will the exploration feel suitably rewarding? How will the race against the AI institution play out over the course of the game? I’m also interested in seeing how the theme of searching for alien life is integrated into the gameplay mechanics.

The combination of card management, exploration, and a competitive AI opponent in a SETI-themed setting makes this game sound like it could be a real winner for me. The 90-120 minute playtime suggests a meaty experience that could still fit into an evening gaming session.

I’ve been a fan of Czech Games Edition for a while now, so seeing them tackle this theme has me really excited. Their games often have a nice balance of theme and mechanics, which is something I really appreciate in my solo gaming.

To be honest, there’s been a lot of hype around this game, and sometimes that makes me a bit wary. But after reading through the rulebook and watching some preview videos, I think the excitement is justified. I can’t wait to get my hands on this one and start my search for extraterrestrial intelligence!

Conclusion

Whew! That’s my top 10 list of solo games I’m eyeing for Essen Spiel 2024. From searching for alien life to building lunar bases, there’s quite a range here. I’m particularly excited about SETI and Shackleton Base – they’re hitting all the right notes for me in terms of theme and mechanics.

Of course, this list is just scratching the surface. Essen Spiel always has surprises in store, and I’m sure I’ll discover some unexpected gems on the show floor. That’s half the fun, isn’t it?

What about you? Are any of these games on your radar? Or do you have some other solo games you’re looking forward to? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Now, let’s not forget about those games that almost made the cut…

Honourable Mentions

While these games didn’t quite crack my top 10, they’re definitely worth keeping an eye on at Spiel:

The Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle Earth

This two-player game based on 7 Wonders Duel looks fantastic. As a big Lord of the Rings fan, I’m always excited to see new games in this universe. The only reason it’s not on my main list is that it doesn’t have a solo mode. Still, I might pick it up for those rare occasions when I can rope someone else into playing with me!

Inferno

A game about resource management and area control set in Dante’s vision of Hell? Colour me intrigued! The artwork looks striking, and I’ve heard good things about the solo mode. It just missed out on my top 10, but I’ll definitely be checking it out at the fair.

Meadow Adventure Book

I really enjoyed the original Meadow, so this campaign-style expansion has definitely caught my eye. The storybook experience combined with nature exploration sounds lovely. It’s not on the main list because I try to focus on new standalone games rather than expansions, but I’m certainly interested in giving this a try.

Sky Team Turbulence

Another expansion, this time for the cooperative game Sky Team. I’ve heard it adds some interesting new challenges and airports. While expansions don’t make my top 10 list, this one seems to add enough to the base game to warrant a mention.

White Castle Matcha

I absolutely loved White Castle, so I’m naturally curious about this expansion. I’m not sure how it will change the base game, but I’m willing to give it a shot. It’s always nice when a favourite game gets some new content!

Inventors of the South Tigris

This new release from Garphill Games is actually already on its way to me. Last year, playing Scholars of the South Tigris at Essen was one of my favourite memories from the convention (plus checking out Ezra and Nehemiah). While it’s not on my main list since I’ll have it before the fair, I’m really looking forward to trying it out.

Unconscious Minds

This game is on a lot of people’s lists, and I can see why. It looks great, and I really enjoyed Endless Winter from the same publisher. The only reason it’s not on my main list is that it should arrive right before Essen. I’m looking forward to diving into it!

Let’s meet!

Are you excited yet? I’d love to hear your thoughts! What games are you most looking forward to trying out? There’s always the chance I’ve missed a hidden gem. If you’ll be attending the event and spot me, don’t hesitate to come over and say hello! It’s always great connecting with fellow board game fans, and who knows, we might even get a chance to play something together. Though I’ll only be there for a couple of days, I’m already buzzing with excitement. With a fresh stack of games to dive into, I’m all set for the months ahead. Let the fun begin!