Among a selection of 12 games, divided into four categories, the jury finally revealed the long-awaited winners.
This year, the ceremony was marked by the presence of Florence Mendez, a former worker in the games sector who became a comedian, who knew how to inject a dose of self-mockery and wit into the evening. Vincent Dedienne, a member of the jury, was missing, held up by a theater performance. A regrettable absence, but it is difficult to blame him as he is known for being as passionate as he is invested in this jury.
As d’Or – Children’s Game of the Year
In the category dedicated to the youngest, Opération Noisettes was crowned. This cooperative game invites children to help squirrels recover their hazelnuts stolen by a sleeping weasel. The authors, Jérôme and Émilie Soleil, have designed a fun experience combining dexterity and suspense, magnificently illustrated by Marko Renko and edited by Auzou.
Editor's opinion:
- The pros: Attractive and colorful material, perfect for young players. A stimulating and accessible cooperation.
- The cons: May lack renewal after several games.
As d’Or – Game of the Year
The prize for the general public game was awarded to Odin. This dynamic discard game immerses players in the Norse mythological universe, where the goal is to get rid of your cards first. The authors Gary Kim, Hope S. Hwang and Yohan Goh, accompanied by illustrations from the Crocotame studio, have designed an accessible and addictive game published by Helvetiq.
The principle is simple: play cards according to a color or value rule, while managing penalties and risk-taking. The game ends when a player reaches a given point threshold, and the one with the fewest points wins.
Editor's opinion:
- The pros: Simple rules and quick to get started. A fluid game with dynamic games.
- Cons: May lack strategic depth for some players.
As d’Or – Game of the Year Initiate
In the “Initiate” category, Behind won against all odds, defying predictions that were betting on the success of Harmonie. This cooperative puzzle game invites players to assemble tiles to reconstruct mysterious scenes and solve puzzles. Designed by Cédric Millet, with illustrations by Maud Chalmel, Pierô and Martin Vidberg, it offers an immersive experience published by KYF Edition.
Editor's opinion:
- Cons: A stimulating cooperation with well-designed puzzles. A neat and immersive design.
- The minuses: The difficulty of some puzzles is uneven, with moments where the game can seem blocking if no one finds the right approach.
As d’Or – Expert Game of the Year
Finally, the “Expert” category saw the triumph of Kutná Hora. This complex strategy game transports participants to the eponymous Czech city, famous for its silver mines in the Middle Ages. Players must develop the city while managing a fluctuating economy. Authors Ondřej Bystroň, Pavel Jarosch and Petr Caslava, accompanied by illustrations by Milan Vavroň, Roman Bednář and Štěpán Drašťák, have designed a deep and demanding game, published by Czech Games Edition.
Editor's opinion:
- The pros: A realistic and well-thought-out economic system. Great strategic depth.
- The downsides: A demanding learning curve that can put off casual players.
A colorful edition
This 2025 edition of the As d’Or has once again highlighted the richness and diversity of game creation, offering the public varied and innovative experiences for all ages and all levels of play. Between the enthusiasm of the authors, the recognition of the talents of the game world and the touches of humor of Florence Mendez, the evening will remain etched in the memories of board game enthusiasts.
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