Agricola

You start with a wooden shack and try to build a successful farm. You place family members on the board to gather resources or build fences. Feeding your family at the end of each round is a constant pressure. It requires a bit of focus, but the payoff is worth it once the mechanics click for everyone. You might struggle a bit during your first session, but the second time through feels very smooth. It has a good rhythm to it once everyone understands the phases of a turn. I appreciate that it does not drag on for hours like some other titles in this genre. It is a solid choice when your group wants a satisfying experience that wraps up before midnight.