As an adult, it's surprising yet true that work can be fun and games, especially in the world of worker placement tabletop games. These games let you guide your team through various tasks and adventures, all while building toward end goals. With a variety of themes and worlds to explore, there's something for everyone. Below is a curated list of some of my favorite worker placement games, featuring both new and classic titles.

TLDR: The Best Worker Placement Games to Play Now

### Viticulture

0See it at Amazon### Yokohama

0See it at Amazon### Unconscious Mind

0See it at Asmodee Store### Wayfarers of The South Tigris

0See it at Amazon### Darwin’s Journey

0See it at Amazon### Fromage

0See it at Allplay Store### The Gallerist

0See it at Eagle-Griphon Games### Septima

0See it at Mind Clash Games### Rock Hard: 1977

0See it at Amazon### Age of Comics: The Golden Years

0See it at AmazonIf you're looking for a quick overview, check out the side-scrolling catalog above. For more detailed insights, keep reading.

Viticulture

### Viticulture

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 1-6Play Time: 45-90 minsViticulture, designed by Jamey Stegmaier of Scythe fame, transports you to Tuscany where you and your friends inherit a family vineyard. Your goal is to build a successful winery by managing workers to plant grapes, harvest, bottle wine, and sell it. The game spans multiple years, allowing you to age your wine and fulfill orders. Enjoy Viticulture competitively or cooperatively with the Viticulture World edition (available at Amazon).

Yokohama

### Yokohama

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 2-4Play Time: 90 minsSet in the bustling port city of Yokohama, Japan, this game challenges you to build your trading empire. Use your workers to gather resources, develop technologies, and complete orders. While Yokohama can be complex, the gameplay flows smoothly once you understand the mechanics. It's best enjoyed with three players, according to Board Game Geek.

Unconscious Mind

### Unconscious Mind

0See it at Asmodee StoreAges: 12+Players: 2-4Play Time: 60-120 mins (or longer)Unconscious Mind is a visually stunning Euro game centered around psychology and grief. With its intricate gameplay, you'll need to strategize your moves carefully. The Nightmares expansion adds more complexity, while pieces like the fireworks and gramophone lighter offer a softer experience. Be prepared for a longer session as the game takes more time than the box suggests.

Wayfarers of The South Tigris

### Wayfarers of The South Tigris

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 60-90 minsWayfarers combines dice rolling with worker placement in a way that's both complex and rewarding. The game's decision space can be daunting at first, but once you master it, the replayability is immense. Don't let its initial complexity deter you; it's a fun and engaging experience, especially in a three-player game.

Darwin’s Journey

### Darwin’s Journey

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 30-120 minsEmbark on a scientific adventure akin to Darwin's own explorations. Race against fellow explorers and Darwin himself to discover nature and science for your museum. Darwin's Journey is easy to learn and highly replayable, appealing to both seasoned and casual gamers. While it's available online, a physical copy is well worth the investment.

Fromage

### Fromage

0See it at Allplay StoreAges: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 40 minsPerfect for a fun evening with friends or a solo session, Fromage is all about crafting and selling award-winning cheeses in France. Manage your structures, livestock, and orders in this quick and engaging game. The Italian version, Formaggio, will have you craving more.

The Gallerist

### The Gallerist

0See it at Eagle-Griphon GamesAges: 12+Players: 1-4Play Time: 120 minsStep into the world of art with The Gallerist, where you manage an art gallery, discovering artists, displaying their work, and attracting patrons. This challenging game, with a complexity rating of 4.24 out of 5 on Board Game Geek, is not for beginners but offers a rewarding experience for those willing to dive in.

Septima

### Septima

0See it at Mind Clash GamesAges: 12+Players: 1-6Play Time: 50-100 minsWith its captivating art and theme of witchcraft, Septima is a delight. Build covens, collect herbs, brew potions, and navigate the dangers of witch hunters and trials. The game is user-friendly and enjoyable solo or with friends. An expansion adds shapeshifting and more beautiful artwork to the mix.

Rock Hard: 1977

### Rock Hard: 1977

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 2-5Play Time: 90 minsUnleash your inner rockstar with Rock Hard: 1977, designed by Jackie Fox of The Runaways. The game's components, including an amp-shaped player board, are stunning. While it was a fan favorite at Gen Con, be aware of its heavy themes, which may not be suitable for everyone.

Age of Comics: The Golden Years

### Age of Comics: The Golden Years

0See it at AmazonAges: 13+Players: 1-4Play Time: 50-120 minsFor comic lovers, Age of Comics: The Golden Years lets you build your comic book empire during the Golden Age. Hire artists, writers, and inkers to create and publish your books, racing against other players. The game's pulpy art is a highlight, and it's easy to learn, making it accessible to all. Playable solo or with up to four players, it's best with three.