Settlers Of Catan By Rebecca Mastey By Rebecca Mastey on Dec 18, 2007 - Updated Oct 15, 2011

Settlers of Catan is the most entertaining board game we own. This game is appropriate for just about any age. We play it during game nights with friends, and our 5 year old daughter also enjoys it. It's very easy to learn, and keeps everyone involved.

The point is to collect 10 "victory points" by building and upgrading settlements, raising an army, and constructing infrastructure. The most appealing aspect is that the board is remade each time by arranging the board tiles into a hexagonal pattern. Because of that, it's never boring and there's no clear strategy to mastering the board.

Another appealing aspect is that everyone is always involved. When it's one player's turn, everyone else has the opportunity to collect resources, or even trade their own cards to get the right combination to further their own development.

There are many expansions available. You can upgrade the game from 4 to 6 players, or add on additional games such as "Seafarers of Catan" to increase the ever changing game environment.

Settlers of Catan is also an excellent way to introduce children to strategy games. It's intended for ages 10 and up, but just about anyone who can read can play the game.

One downside is the game can be hard to find. Check out specialty game stores online or locally to get a copy.