This category represents a specific type of board game where players strategically allocate limited resources, typically represented by “workers,” to various actions or locations on the game board. By strategically placing these workers, players aim to gather resources, construct buildings, acquire skills, or perform other actions that advance their position and ultimately lead to victory. A common example involves assigning a worker to a “wood gathering” space to acquire wood resources, or to a “market” space to trade resources for other goods.
The appeal of this game mechanic lies in its blend of strategic planning and resource management. The scarcity of workers forces players to carefully consider their options and prioritize their actions each turn. It fosters both long-term strategic thinking and tactical adaptation as players react to the actions of their opponents and the evolving game state. Historically, games employing this mechanic have gained significant popularity due to their depth of gameplay and replayability.