Raising Chicago

Going back to school put an epic little Spiellworx gem in front of us, one that had, honestly, flown completely under my radar. It is one of those games that gives you nothing for free: zero luck, just decisions and the constant suspicion that someone at the table is about to ruin your plan.

At its core is a modified Walrasian auction system, distinctive enough to pleasantly blow my mind. You make bids, try to get what you need, and constantly have to read not only your own position, but also what everyone else can or wants to do.

And of course, this is not a quiet personal solitaire game with bids attached. You obstruct people in the auctions and then put up buildings to help Chicago escape its sewage crisis. The interaction is right there, directly on the table, and that is exactly why every bid carries weight.

It burns a little brainpower without being heavy on rules, and it takes its two hours. For lovers of the genre—meaning us—it is very, very strong: something like a cross between Urban Sprawl and Tulip Bubble. I am already putting it very seriously on my game-of-the-year list.