Closed Drafting

Closed Drafting Mechanic in Board Games

Closed drafting is a game mechanic often used in board games that involves players selecting cards or game elements from a private hand or pool before passing the remainder to the next player. Unlike open drafting, where all choices are visible to everyone, closed drafting keeps each player's choices secret until the draft is complete.

How Closed Drafting Works

• Players start with a set of game elements, typically cards.
• Each player selects one card and keeps it secret (often placed face-down).
• The remaining cards are passed to the next player.
• This process repeats until all cards have been selected.

Strategic Implications

• Players must anticipate the needs and potential choices of opponents.
• There's an element of surprise, as final selections are revealed only after the round ends.
• Closed drafting requires memory and prediction skills, as players try to remember what was passed and infer what others are collecting.

Game Examples

• 7 Wonders: Players build ancient civilizations using cards drafted in this manner.
• Sushi Go!: A lighter example where players pick sushi dishes to form high-scoring combinations.