Jon was kind enough to invite me over for some good food and gaming. And, of course, I get to play with Chocolaté Grimm too.

Cartagena

I thought that we would attempt to increase the number of three player games that we would simultaneously. Which was something like 10 games at one time? But Doug’s friend, Matt, was here. So we played normal games instead (that is, one at a time). And the first one was Cartagena (but played without Matt). This game was played quite tactically as we tried not to set up the person going next with an opportunity to get a lot of cards. Jon took an early lead while I concentrated on getting cards. Fortunately, I was able to pick a good time to make a run for the boat as Jon could not get all of his pieces out in time. Doug was holding up the rear during the whole game but was able to sneak out more people to snatch second place from Jon.

Puerto Rico

The next game we played was a meaty classic, Puerto Rico. When it first came out, we tried to play it often enough to try out different strategies. However, as the number of new games increased, this game started to collect dust. And it was good to bring it out.

I went last in this game, so I started with corn. And as new plantations came out, I kept getting to pick another corn plantation. So my strategy became crystal clear for me: ship as often as possible. I planned on not building much and saving for a wharf. But, I was able to get a coffee plantation while everyone else took tobacco. So I spent my money on a coffee roaster and was able to trade my coffee for some money. My next building was the wharf. This game was a little worring to me because we were calling out for so many new slaves, err colonists (8-10 each turn). And I worried a little more when Matt was able to build a Fortress and then man it with another Mayor action. But it was all for nothing as I won handily.

Tichu

We introduced Roxana to this game. Doug was not so willing to play. While Jon was explaining the rules, I printed out the color cheat sheet for them. At least Doug was able to call Tichu a couple of times. But we were able to set him each time. So I think that he hates the game even more now. And newbie Roxana even called and made Tichu once!

Roxana and I started off strong. And the kept the lead for a while. However, Doug and Jon were able to catch up with a couple of 12s and GrandTichus/Tichus. They only needed 95 points to win (where we needed 405). During the next two hands, we kept them from scoring enough points for the win. And on the final hand, I desperately called GrandTichu. Roxana passed me an Ace. Doug surprised me by calling Tichu and laying out a straight from Mahjong to Queen with the Phoenix on top. He had one card left. Fortunately, I had an ace bomb to stop him. I only had to worry about playing one lowish single card by him. And when he passed, I knew I was good.