BoardGameGeek, often called BGG, is a large website built for people who enjoy tabletop games. New users sometimes feel overwhelmed because the site looks busy and filled with details, but at its core it’s a simple resource. It helps you look up board games, check ratings, read reviews, and join a global gaming community. If you’ve heard the name but don’t know what BGG actually does, this guide explains everything in plain, easy language.
A Quick Explanation of BoardGameGeek
BoardGameGeek is a huge online database for tabletop games. The site lists thousands of board games, card games, strategy games, family games, and older classics. Each game has its own page with detailed information. Players use BGG to learn rules, check ratings, and decide which games to buy or try.
The platform brings together designers, publishers, and players who want accurate game information and active discussion.
What You Can Do on BoardGameGeek
Users go to BGG for different reasons. Here are common things you can do:
- look up any board game
- read reviews and comments
- check ratings from thousands of players
- see rules, photos, and videos
- join forums and discussions
- track your game collection
- find guides or tips
- look at fan-made content
BGG works as a mix of a database, a community space, and a game discovery tool.
How the Game Pages Work
Every board game on BGG has a dedicated page. These pages are packed with helpful info. A typical game page includes:
- the designer and publisher
- number of players
- recommended age
- playtime
- game category
- a summary of how the game works
You also see images, rulebook links, videos, and user ratings. Many games include expansions, and BGG links those directly on the page.
The BGG Ranking System
BGG uses a rating system where users score games from 1 to 10. These ratings then shape the overall rank of the game. Games with many strong ratings rise to the top. That’s why popular strategy games often stay high on the list.
Rankings change over time as more people try new games. A game might drop or climb depending on community interest, new reviews, or updated editions. It gives a quick sense of which games the community enjoys most.
Popular Sections of the Site
BoardGameGeek has many areas you can explore, but some stand out:
- Hotness list
- Forums
- GeekLists
- Marketplace
The Hotness shows games users are currently talking about. Forums hold long discussions and rule questions. GeekLists are user-made lists about themes or game types. The marketplace helps users buy or trade games.
Each section gives you a different way to learn about games or connect with others.
Why Board Gamers Use BGG
The site stays popular because it offers real information from real players. Users trust the ratings because thousands of players share honest thoughts. The community answers rule questions, compares games, and posts helpful guides.
Many publishers and designers also read feedback on BGG. It becomes a meeting place for everyone involved in tabletop gaming.
How Beginners Can Use BGG Without Feeling Lost
The website can feel heavy at first, but beginners only need a few simple tools. Start by:
- using the search bar to find a game
- reading the summary and ratings
- checking reviews for clear opinions
- ignoring advanced menus until you’re ready
Take your time. You don’t need to learn every feature to enjoy the site. Focus on the basics and expand as you get more comfortable.
Extra Things You Can Do on BGG
As you use the site more, you’ll notice other helpful features:
- track your play logs
- mark games you own
- build a wishlist
- view expansions for your favorite games
- follow designers and publishers
- save GeekLists you like
These tools help you stay organized and explore new games easily.
Final Notes
BoardGameGeek is a detailed but helpful site that supports the entire tabletop game community. Once you understand how to read game pages and ratings, the site becomes an easy place to explore new games and share your own thoughts. If you need help with more gaming tools or want explanations of other board game platforms, feel free to ask.