Kennerspiel

Kennerspiel des Jahres, commonly referred to as Kennerspiel, is a German board game award category established in 2007 as a counterpart to the Spiel des Jahres. It recognizes more complex and substantial games, highlighting titles considered part of the “connoisseur” segment of the hobby.

The Kennerspiel des Jahres targets games with deeper strategy, longer play times, and more intricate or thematic design. It is aimed at experienced or enthusiast players, while still remaining accessible to informed groups and families who enjoy heavier games.

Selection is carried out by a jury comprising game journalists, retailers, and other industry professionals. Each year a set of nominees is announced, typically around the time of the Essen Spiel trade fair, with the winner revealed at the same event.

The award has become one of the most recognized distinctions in the board game industry. A win or nomination can boost a game’s visibility and sales, influence design trends, and help consumers distinguish between lighter family games and more complex offerings.

As part of the broader German award ecosystem for hobby games, Kennerspiel des Jahres complements Spiel des Jahres. Together, the two categories have helped shape mainstream interest in a wide range of games and have contributed to promoting higher complexity and depth in popular board gaming.