All of these games involve some strategy as well as some luck. They have a bit of a learning curve to begin with. But once everyone catches on, play moves quickly. And due to differences in setup, they are different each time, which adds to the interest.

SETTLERS OF ZARAHEMLA

Players: 2-4

Ages: 10 and up

Time: 60-90 minutes

Patterned after the best-selling German game Settlers of Catan, this board game involves trading, settling and expansion. Players gather resources that allow them to build civilizations, roads and temples around a grid comprised of colored hexagons. They also have to beware of the Gadianton Robber, who will occupy their lands and steal essential resources.

ARK OF THE COVENANT

Players: 2-5

Ages: 8 and up

Time: 30-45 minutes

Based on the Carcassonne, the 2001 game of the year, this tile-laying game allows players to develop the Promised Land by herding sheep and building roads, cities and temples. Extra points can be earned for taking along the Ark of the Covenant. Watch out for the wolves.

NEW ENGLAND

Players: 3-4

Ages: 12 and up

Time: 60-90 minutes

A new design, and named Games Magazine's game of the year for 2003, New England allows players to build shelters, raise animals and grow crops through clever bidding, buying resource and development cards and laying of tiles. Along the way, they must manage ships, pilgrims and barns to add to their holdings. The winner is the one who achieves the greatest prosperity in New England.

HIGH SOCIETY

Players: 2-5

Ages: 10 and up

Time: 30 minutes

The one with the most toys wins in this bidding-and-bluffing card game. Players bid to secure the most lavish and luxurious possessions, but they have to beware of the tax man and a gambling habit, which can force them into financial ruin.