The highly anticipated As d’Or awards have once again celebrated the finest board games of the year, with winners announced during the Cannes International Games Festival on February 27, 2025. Recognized as one of the most prestigious accolades in the tabletop industry, the As d’Or-or Golden Ace-honors games that showcase creativity, innovation, and engaging gameplay.
This year’s winners spanned four major categories: Game of the Year (General Public), Children’s Game, Initiated Game, and Expert Game. Here’s a look at the standout titles that took home the prize in each category.
Game of the Year (General Public): Odin
Published by Helvetiq and designed by Yohan Goh, Gary Kim, and Hope S. Hwang, Odin is a strategic card game inspired by Norse mythology. Featuring quick, dynamic rounds for 2-6 players, the game challenges players to discard cards by forming combinations based on color or number. Its accessibility and clever mechanics make it a perfect choice for both casual gamers and seasoned players.
Children’s Game of the Year: Opération Noisettes
Designed by Jérôme and Émilie Soleil with artwork by Marko Renko, Opération Noisettes (Operation Hazelnuts) captured the hearts of young players. In this charming cooperative game, 1-4 players take on the role of squirrels attempting to recover stolen acorns without waking the mischievous weasel. Simple yet engaging, the game encourages teamwork while developing motor skills in young children. Published by Auzou and distributed by Interforum, this title is a fantastic pick for family-friendly gaming.
Initiated Game of the Year: Behind
For players looking for a deeper challenge, Behind, published by KYF Édition, offers a unique mix of deduction and puzzle-solving. Designed by Cédric Millet, this game invites players to reconstruct stories by assembling tiles to reveal hidden scenes. With three distinct scenarios-The Theft, The Professor, and Imhotep-Behind presents an immersive experience that blends logic, creativity, and storytelling. Whether played solo or in teams, this 45-90 minute game stands out for its originality and versatility.
Expert Game of the Year: Kutná Hora – The City of Silver
The expert category saw Kutná Hora: The City of Silver claim victory. Designed by Ondřej Bystroň, Pavel Jarosch, and Petr Caslava, and published by Czech Games Edition, this intricate Euro-style city-building game is set in medieval Bohemia. Players must manage silver mines, construct buildings, and navigate a dynamic economy where every decision impacts the city’s development. With stunning artwork by Štěpán Drašťák, Milan Vavron, and Roman Bednář, Kutná Hora delivers a rich and rewarding strategy experience for dedicated board gamers.
A Celebration of Innovation in Board Gaming
The As d’Or awards continue to highlight the incredible talent and creativity within the tabletop gaming industry. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore strategist, this year’s winners offer something for everyone. As 2025 unfolds, the world of board games promises even more excitement, with upcoming releases and events sure to keep players engaged.
Stay tuned for more coverage on Spiel des Jahres 2025 and other major board game events!
