After spending some time Terraforming Mars yesterday afternoon (unsuccessfully I might add - but getting so close!), I brought Architects of the West Kingdom to the table after dinner.
I took on, Constantine again in solo mode. A typical game for me, sort of runs through this general thought process:
... "Ok, here we go"
... "That was a smart move, if I do say so myself"
... "That jerk! He screwed me up"
... "This should work"
... "I gotta say - I think I'm doing ok"
... "That jerk! He screwed me up again!"
... "Uh-oh! Not sure I'm going to win this one"
... "Well, it may be close"
... "Nope. He beat me again"
As with Raiders of the North Sea, I just can't win a Shem Phillips game in solo mode... yet. It's crazy. At least with games like Scythe or Wingspan, you can slowly build your ability in the game through various difficulty levels and progress. With Shem's games, you're at the "punch in the face" level right from the get go for me. However, it doesn't take the fun out of it for me. I really do love his games and I love the challenge.
I'm not sure about anyone else, but a pet peeve of mine is reading strategy forums/posts on BGG for games ... so I just don't. I also get really annoyed on BGA when someone gives you unsolicited strategy advice! Thankfully that's not too often. I dislike unsolicited advice in life in general; If I want your advice, or have a question, I'll ask! In the meantime - don't ruin my gaming fun with it!!! Sorry - rant over.
For me, I don't want/need to figure things out quickly, especially when I'm enjoying the game regardless. It's not all about the win for me. It's the process of learning the game, how to get better, figuring out what can be done within the rules, etc. I love the practice. I enjoy playing a game over and over to finally get the win! That's fun for me. And it feels sweeter win you taste victory after putting in the time and enjoyment.
So I may not have impressed the King yet by my building abilities, but it's going to happen.
I also prefer games in which you can't win too easily -as long as they are winnable, of course. I get what you're saying about strategy tips, they sure spoil the joy of figuring it out yourself. I sometimes catch myself revealing too much about how I approach a game when I write a Table Presence. I'll keep it in mind. 😏
I agree with not wanting to read up on spoilers. However, I am not adverse to some general advice once in a while. Mainly out of curiosity. Also, learning from others mistakes can be entertaining!
Derek, may the King soon reward you for your perseverance.