I'd have to say this Christmas brought myself and the family a decent amount of games. In the spirit of this great site though, I will only discuss the 3-games that can be played solo here (as the others are fun party games - which as much as I love med-heavy games, playing light party games that are easy to explain and quick to get into are a lot of fun too!).
I just wanted to share the solo-able games here, as I'm so excited to have/be getting 3-games from the top of my wishlist!!
1) I just finished posting in the "Now Playing" area about Parks. What a fun, beautiful nature themed game where you hike the trails and visit National Parks. It comes with a fun solo variant.
2) I received a good amount in gift cards, and so I decided to knock off a couple games from the top of my wishlist! They should arrive in a week or so at most. The one that's been at the top of my list and had my attention all year, Terraforming Mars, has been ordered! Woo Hoo!!
3) As with the second game mentioned, I used my gift cards to purchase another game that's been at the top of my wishlist for most of the year; Architects of the West Kingdom. I love my copy of Raiders of the North Sea (along with the Hall of Heroes expansion), and Shem Phillips mechanics and artwork draw me in easily! Can't wait to play this one in a week or so as well.
LOL It is a sweet hat-trick! As a lifelong athlete, I appreciate the choice of words. ;)
I would highly recommend Parks. It really is great, especially if you enjoy nature themed games and games with beautiful artwork.
Regarding ROTNS, I was lucky enough to get a copy of the solo deck this summer as well. I couldn't believe it! Man it's hard though! LOL But I'm really excited about Architects; artwork and some feel may be similar, but the gameplay and mechanics twists are different. I can't wait! :)