The Boardgames Australia shortlists for 2009 are announced.

The three judging panels of Boardgames Australia have made their deliberations and come up with the shortlist of games under consideration for the 2009 awards.

The guidelines used when judging the Best Australian Game and Best International Game categories are that the game:

1. has rules that are clear and not overly complex

2. provides tension, drama and excitement

3. provides the opportunity to make interesting decisions or to do clever and imaginative things

4. can be replayed many times with enjoyment

5. focuses on interaction with the other players rather than just with the game system

6. rewards skill but has sufficient luck to allow any family member a chance of winning

7. has sturdy and attractive components

8. represents good value for money

9. is different from other games

10. has an engaging theme, and creates a narrative that seizes the imagination

11. has a manageable playing time (ideally under 90 minutes)

12. plays well with differing numbers of players

The guidelines for the Best Children's Award are similar.

These guidelines advise rather than restrict the judges, and no single element is absolutely essential. This means that for example, games designed for two players, or abstract games, or long games are all eligible for consideration, though it is true to say they would need to be outstanding in other areas to emerge as winners.

Shortlist for Best International Game 2009

Shortlist for Best Australian Game 2009

Shortlist for Best Children's Game 2009