Afraid of playing something new

[rlara]

Hello, pals, I knew BGA years ago, I used to play some games and try some games I couldn't find near me, but then I stopped passing by, now I'm back but many things have changed, and now I think the system is not so beginners friendly, I'm afraid of trying new games and I feel distressed with the clock thinking people will kick me of affect my reputation if I take a couple seconds more than an expert.

I don't know if I'm exaggerating, but that's how I feel.

[Romain672]

Hi you could try this group: https://boardgamearena.com/group?id=111 ... ion=recent
It isn't much active, but maybe that's what you are searching for.

[skoki]

You can manually search for table, and then join only those who are in slow mode, or even turn based. You can also create tables with restriction to not allow experts to join it.
Otherwise you suffer newogameophobia

[Zozoken]

You can also put any games you want to learn in "Training Mode" for the timer. This is a turn-based mode that gets rid of the timer and no rating is awarded at the end of the game. You can take as long as you need for each move, and there's even a feature where anyone at the table can show their mouse cursor on the screen which is great for teaching.

[GeraldineMerida]

I often play turn based the first time I try a new game: takes all the pressure off, and lets me check the rulebook between moves as often as I need to.

[Shazzypaz]

You can also play a game against yourself for practice using the Hotseat mode. Helpful for learning the mechanics of a new game. Use training mode, and the Invite a Friend button - go to the bottom of the list and select Hotseat. Then you can play a few turns with any pressure at all.

[cigma]

There is a bunch of games you can play in solo mode https://boardgamearena.com/gamelist?players=1 By using solo mode, you can try which games you like and make yourself familiar with the rules before playing with other people.

And you can find a lot of games with a tutorial https://boardgamearena.com/gamelist?hasTutorialOnly= This is another way to learn the rules beforehand.

[Jellby]

If looking for tutorials, check also https://boardgamearena.com/tutoriallist
Some tutorials are in alpha or beta stage, and may not appear as the "official" tutorial yet, but they're usable and helpful.