Carcassonne The Discovery

Well, since Russ Williams was showing up at William and J.P.’s house for gaming, I decided to show up as well. It was nice to see him, and tonight would be the last night to do so since he is moving to some foreign land. Initially, I thought we could play Caylus, but that is asking a lot of the Russ-group. So, instead, we let Russ pick the quintessential Russcon game of Carcassonne. I was doing good in the game until Clayton completed a section for everyone except for myself. This essentially moved me back 22 points. It was an alright game. But I own too many Carcassonne games and this one is not significantly better than its predecessors to justify a purchase.

Tichu

Ah, with limited choices, it is hard to resist playing this other quintessential russcon game. I think that it is more so recently than Carcassonne. Jeffles was in an interesting mood tonight. He was playing this game and Carcassonne simultaneously. He can do this since the Carcassonne players play slowly and your really dont need to pay attention to their moves (just look at the board and play your piece). What was amusing was that were were winning 680 to 420 (even with a failed Tichu call by Jeffles that hand), and Jeffles announces that one of us is going to call Grand Tichu. And I believe him. So I pick up my first eight cards, see total crap (well, ok, one ace), and quickly pick up the rest. And then Jeffles calls Grand Tichu. Fortunately for us, we not only made it, but also 1/2ed for the win!

Zirkus Flohcati

Since I had to leave in a little bit, William suggested this cute little quick game. I was able to get two trios out early. But immediately after that, Adam calls a Gala Show for the win.