As an adult, it's surprising to admit that work can indeed be fun and games, especially in the world of worker placement tabletop games. These games allow you to guide your team through various tasks and adventures as you strive toward your end goals. With a wide array of themes and settings to choose from, there's something for everyone. Below is a curated list of my latest favorite worker placement games, featuring both new releases and timeless classics.

TLDR: The Best Worker Placement Board 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 AmazonFor those who prefer a quick glance, you can explore all the games listed above in a handy side-scrolling catalog. If you're interested in learning more about each game, continue reading for detailed descriptions.

Viticulture

### Viticulture

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 1-6Play Time: 45-90 minsViticulture, crafted by Jamey Stegmaier of Scythe fame, transports players to the picturesque region of Tuscany. Here, families inherit vineyards and strive to build successful wineries. The game involves planting vineyards, harvesting grapes, bottling wine, and selling it to fulfill orders. Players manage their workers efficiently across multiple years, aging wine and expanding their winery. Whether playing competitively in the original version or cooperatively in the Viticulture World edition (see at Amazon), this game offers a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts and gamers alike.

Yokohama

### Yokohama

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 2-4Play Time: 90 minsYokohama immerses players in the bustling port city near Tokyo, Japan. As business tycoons, players deploy their workers to gather resources, develop technologies, and complete orders, building a thriving trading empire. Though the game has a moderate level of complexity, gameplay flows smoothly once players understand the mechanics. Best enjoyed with three players, according to Board Game Geek, Yokohama offers a strategic challenge that's both engaging and rewarding.

Unconscious Mind

### Unconscious Mind

0See it at Asmodee StoreAges: 12+Players: 2-4Play Time: 60-120 mins (or longer)Unconscious Mind is a deep Euro game exploring themes of psychology and grief, boasting stunning artwork. The gameplay is intricate, requiring strategic planning in movement and timing. The Nightmares expansion adds further complexity, suitable for players seeking a challenge, while lighter elements like fireworks and a gramophone cater to those preferring a gentler experience. Be prepared for a longer playtime than indicated on the box, as setup and teaching can take considerable time.

Wayfarers of The South Tigris

### Wayfarers of The South Tigris

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 60-90 minsWayfarers of The South Tigris combines dice and worker placement mechanics in a surprisingly enjoyable game. The integration of dice rolls with worker actions adds an element of chance that can lead to rewarding outcomes. Initially daunting, especially for those new to heavier Euro games, the game's complexity offers significant replayability. After playing a three-player game, I was pleasantly surprised by the fun and strategic depth it provided.

Darwin’s Journey

### Darwin’s Journey

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 30-120 minsFor those aspiring to be scientific explorers like Darwin, Darwin’s Journey offers an engaging experience. Players race against fellow explorers and Darwin himself across three islands, collecting specimens for a museum. The game is easy to learn, highly replayable, and visually appealing. Available both in physical form and online, it's a hit among both seasoned and casual players.

Fromage

### Fromage

0See it at Allplay StoreAges: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 40 minsFromage is a delightful game for food lovers, perfect for gatherings with friends or solo play. Set in France, players compete to produce and sell award-winning cheeses. The game involves building structures, managing livestock, and fulfilling orders. The Italian version, Formaggio, adds a delicious twist that cheese enthusiasts will appreciate.

The Gallerist

### The Gallerist

0See it at Eagle-Griphon GamesAges: 12+Players: 1-4Play Time: 120 minsThe Gallerist challenges players to run an art gallery, discovering artists, showcasing their work, and attracting discerning patrons. This game ranks high in complexity on Board Game Geek, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience for seasoned players. Much like the art world, it's not for beginners but offers a deep strategic gameplay for those willing to dive in.

Septima

### Septima

0See it at Mind Clash GamesAges: 12+Players: 1-6Play Time: 50-100 minsSeptima's captivating gothic art is a highlight for fans of the genre. The game revolves around witches forming covens, collecting herbs, brewing potions, and surviving witch hunters and trials. Despite the thematic challenges, the game is accessible and enjoyable, whether played solo or with a group. An expansion adds shapeshifting with animals, enhancing the game's already stunning visuals.

Rock Hard: 1977

### Rock Hard: 1977

0See it at AmazonAges: 14+Players: 2-5Play Time: 90 minsRock Hard: 1977 lets players channel their inner rockstar, crafted by Jackie Fox of The Runaways. With components designed like amps and head icons, players navigate the path to stardom. A fan favorite at Gen Con, the game tackles heavy themes that may not suit all players, so be prepared for potentially challenging content.

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 enthusiasts, Age of Comics: The Golden Years offers a chance to build a comic catalog during the Golden Age. Players hire artists, writers, and inkers to design and publish comics, racing against others to reach fandom. The game's pulpy art and accessible gameplay make it enjoyable for comic fans and newcomers alike. Playable solo or with up to four players, it's best with three and one of the easiest games on this list to learn.