Something I didn’t expect to say as an adult is that sometimes, believe it or not, work can be fun and games. In worker placement tabletop games, they literally can be. In this form of gameplay, you take your team through different tasks or adventures as you build toward end goals. There are many different worlds you can choose to embark on, or themes to try, depending on the game you choose. This list includes some of my latest favorites, featuring both newer and older worker placement games.
TLDR: The Best Worker Placement Board Games to Play Now
### Viticulture
0See it at Amazon
### Yokohama
0See it at Amazon
### Unconscious Mind
0See it at Asmodee Store
### Wayfarers of The South Tigris
0See it at Amazon
### Darwin’s Journey
0See it at Amazon
### Fromage
0See it at Allplay Store
### The Gallerist
0See it at Eagle-Griphon Games
### Septima
0See it at Mind Clash Games
### Rock Hard: 1977
0See it at Amazon
### Age of Comics: The Golden Years
0See it at AmazonIf you don't need no stinkin' blurbs, you can see all the games in this article in the handy side-scrolling catalog above. If you do want to read about the games, however, just keep on reading.
Viticulture
### Viticulture
0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 1-6Play Time: 45-90 minsViticulture, designed by Jamey Stegmaier, famous for Scythe, invites players on a delightful journey to Tuscany. Here, families inherit land and strive to create successful wineries. The game revolves around building a vineyard, harvesting grapes, bottling nectar, and selling vino. You'll need to strategically use your workers within the season's timeframe. Players progress through multiple years, enhancing their wineries and aging wine to fulfill orders. Gather your friends and raise a glass to Viticulture, which offers both competitive and cooperative play through the Viticulture World edition (see at Amazon).
Yokohama
### Yokohama
0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 2-4Play Time: 90 minsYokohama is set in the bustling port city near Tokyo, Japan, where players build their business empires. Utilize a team of workers to strategically gather resources, develop technologies, and complete orders to maximize your success. While the game may seem complex at first, turns become smooth once you grasp the mechanics. Yokohama supports two to four players, but it's recommended for three according to Board Game Geek.
Unconscious Mind
### Unconscious Mind
0See it at Asmodee StoreAges: 12+Players: 2-4Play Time: 60-120 mins (or longer)Unconscious Mind is a heavy Euro game that delves into psychology and grief, and it boasts stunning artwork. The gameplay is intricate, offering deep strategies in movement and timing. The Nightmares expansion adds even more complexity, making the game more challenging or providing a softer experience with elements like fireworks and a gramophone lighter. Be prepared for a longer setup and playtime than the box suggests, as it requires substantial time to teach and play.
Wayfarers of The South Tigris
### Wayfarers of The South Tigris
0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 60-90 minsWayfarers combines dice and worker placement in a way that's both complex and enjoyable. The game's mechanics link worker actions to dice rolls, adding an element of chance to your decisions. While it might seem daunting at first, especially for those new to heavier Euro games, it offers immense replayability once mastered. Don't miss out on this game—it's a rewarding experience.
Darwin’s Journey
### Darwin’s Journey
0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 30-120 minsIf you dream of being a scientific explorer like Darwin, Darwin's Journey is for you. Race against fellow explorers and Darwin himself across three islands to discover nature and science for a museum. The game is easy to navigate and highly replayable, with a lovely table presence. It's also available online, but the physical copy is a hit among seasoned and casual players alike.
Fromage
### Fromage
0See it at Allplay StoreAges: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 40 minsPerfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo, Fromage is a relaxed game about crafting and selling award-winning cheeses across France. Players build structures, tend to livestock, and fill orders in this quick-to-play game. The Italian version, Formaggio, will have you craving more than just Parmigiano.
The Gallerist
### The Gallerist
0See it at Eagle-Griphon GamesAges: 12+Players: 1-4Play Time: 120 minsThe Gallerist immerses players in the world of running an art gallery. Discover artists, showcase their art, and attract discerning patrons. This game is not for beginners, with a high complexity rating of 4.24 out of 5 on Board Game Geek. Be ready for a challenging yet rewarding experience that mirrors the intricacies of the art world.
Septima
### Septima
0See it at Mind Clash GamesAges: 12+Players: 1-6Play Time: 50-100 minsSeptima's art is captivating, especially if you're a fan of gothic aesthetics. This user-friendly game revolves around building covens, collecting herbs, brewing potions, and surviving witch trials. Despite the challenges of losing allies to an angry mob, it's highly enjoyable. You can play solo or with a group, and the expansion adds shapeshifting with animals, enhancing the game's already beautiful artwork.
Rock Hard: 1977
### Rock Hard: 1977
0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 2-5Play Time: 90 minsRock Hard 1977, created by Jackie Fox of The Runaways, lets you unleash your inner rockstar. The game features stunning components, including an amp-shaped player board and a favorite head icon. It was a fan favorite at Gen Con. However, be aware that it includes heavy themes and some sad content that may not be suitable for everyone.
Age of Comics: The Golden Years
### Age of Comics: The Golden Years
0See it at AmazonAges: 13+Players: 1-4Play Time: 50-120 minsIf you love comics, Age of Comics: The Golden Years lets you build your own catalog during the Golden Age. Hire artists, writers, and inkers to design your books and race against other players to publish and sell comics. The pulpy art is delightful, and you don't need to be a comic book fan to enjoy the game. It's playable solo or with up to four players, but it's best with three. It's also one of the easiest games on this list to learn.
