Board Game Arena

Due to the current situation, I'm a pretty late convert to bga but I really appreciate that it is keeping me gaming during these challenging times. One thing that I would really like though is the ability to familiarise / click around a game to learn how the bga interface deals with it etc. What is happening at the moment is that my group is logging in and because no one has played before we are taking a long time to learn / play those first games - something that would be a lot quicker if someone could guide. I know there is the 'Training' mode and you can spectate but I always feel guilty entering a game where I have zero knowledge of the interface and just slow everyone down. I assume this solo, sandbox functionality isn't something I've just missed from the option menu?

There is a hotseat mode where you can play a game against yourself. But it is only available for premium members.
For Can't Stop it is availabe to play against a robot, you have to chose robot in the settings (on the left when you generate a table in manual mode).

I would encourage you to not worry too much about taking your time. That is what the player states "Beginner" and "Aprrentice" are for and also what Training mode is for. Most users on this site are very aware that you need some time to adjust in your first matches.

The only thing that would be annoying if you try optimize your play strategy in your first playthroughs and take a lot of thinking time for this. There are some players who think they have to play optimal in their first playthrough and think endlessly. I would encourage just trying things out, take your time for the interface/rules but don't try to be too smart. Reasonable players won't complain if you make dumb mistakes in your first playthroughs.

Thanks for that really helpful reply - I am a Premium member so I'll take a look at Hotseat as it could be ideal.
I've seen a couple of examples of other players chivvying Beginners and Apprentices along in the chat - perfectly politely I would add - but I am more aware of just making dumb moves that would ruin the game for everyone else, especially if a long game (something like Puerto Rico would be a good example of this when seeing what other players need is pretty crucial).
I also find 7 Wonders a bit tricky as I'm still at the stage when I need to read the cards - but the drafting can be over in seconds with experienced players.
Thanks again for the help.

Hotseat works perfectly and is exactly what I need