How do you know if a game is good or not? Do you really want to own the game? Ask yourself the following questions and do it before you spend your cash the hard way like I did.
Rule #10: What type of game is this?
Rule #9: Is this game easy to explain to new gamers?
Rule #10: What type of game is this?
Rule #9: Is this game easy to explain to new gamers?
Rule #8: Is this a heavy strategy game or a light strategy game?
Rule #7: How long is this game?
Rule #6: Is this game pretty to look at?
Rule #5: Does the game play well with just 2 players?
Rule #4: Can this game be played with 6 players?
If you like to play with couples it is nice to have some games that play well with 6 players or more. However, there are some exceptions to this rule (Ticket To Ride, Dice Town, Small World, etc.) Most of the super successful games (Catan, Carcasone, Alhambra, Dominion, etc.) have incorporated expansions that add additional players as well as new gaming components to the game.
But, if there are only 2-5 players in your group... You've got nothing to fear! Just make sure that you find a good game and don't worry about adding the sixth player component.
The next question you need to ask yourself is: Will the game be fun to play with 6 players?
Sometimes adding that extra player creates a bunch of lag time between turns. This really depends on your group of gamers. If you love to chat it up between turns and aren't too worried about who's turn is next, then don't worry. If you play with a group that acts like they have ants in their pants while waiting for their next turn, then be cautious of adding that additional player. Games like Catan and Dominion are great with 6 players because the game mechanics allow you to participate in some way while it is another persons turn.
What woman doesn't like to buy stuff cheap? I don't know about you, but I get shoppers rush when I buy a something at a great price. Just talking about it get's me horny for shopping!
My favorite place to purchase games is from TimeWellSpent.org. They have much better prices than the mall or other discount stores, fast shipping and good customer service. I also recommend combining your order with a friends so you can pay less or nothing for shipping.
I always check BoardGameGeek.com before I buy a game. They have great reviews, forums, user ratings and a great list of awards the game has won with each game description. The Geek rates games based on user preferences, but make sure that a ton of users have rated a game. That way you get the most accurate rating of games. 
I learned my lesson the hard way. When I first got into gaming, I would pick up anything that sounded fun thus spending too much money on games we don't play much. Now I only buy games that have won some kind of award. My favorite award is the Spiel Des Jahres.
