Ameritrash

Ameritrash is a term used in tabletop gaming to describe a broad set of American-originated board games that foreground theme, components, and confrontation. The label is not a strict genre, but a loose categorization contrasted with Eurogames. Key characteristics typically include an emphasis on narrative and atmosphere; high production values with large or detailed components such as plastic miniatures, full-color artwork, and sizable game boards; a significant element of luck and randomization through dice and card draws; direct player interaction, including conflict and take-that mechanics; and often longer play times with thematic scenarios. In some titles, player elimination is a feature.

Origin and usage: The term emerged in the hobby press in the late 20th century; its exact origin is disputed. It is widely used by critics and players to describe a tradition of American-developed games that some argue privilege theme and spectacle over tight resource management, while many designers who create Ameritrash games defend the value of story-driven play and accessible rules. The label can be pejorative, but it is also embraced by some players as a positive marker of immersion and social play.

Common examples and evolution: Early exemplars include Arkham Horror and DungeonQuest, with later titles such as Descent: Journeys in the Dark, Twilight Imperium, Chaos in the Old World, and Star Wars: Rebellion often cited in discussions of Ameritrash design. In recent years the boundary between Ameritrash and Eurogames has blurred, with hybrids and new releases incorporating narrative and interactive elements.

See also: Eurogame; thematic board games; tabletop game design.