Meeples

Meeples are small, stylized human figures commonly used as playing pieces in modern board games. They are typically made of wood or plastic and have a distinctive shape, featuring a cylindrical body, a slightly wider head, and two stubby legs. This iconic design, characterized by its simplicity and abstract representation of a person, has become a recognizable symbol of the board gaming hobby.

The origin of the meeple can be traced back to the German game Carcassonne, released in 2000 by Hans im Glück. The game's designer, Klaus-Jürgen Wrede, sought a unique playing piece to represent the followers placed on the game board. The term "meeple" itself is a portmanteau of "my" and "people," coined by board game enthusiasts. While Carcassonne popularized the term and the specific design, similar abstract playing pieces existed in earlier games.

Meeples have since been adopted by countless board game publishers and designers. They are available in a wide array of colors, sizes, and even themed variations, often reflecting the specific game's setting or mechanics. Beyond their functional role as game markers, meeples are also collected by hobbyists and have inspired a significant amount of fan art and merchandise. Their widespread use and distinctive appearance have cemented their status as a staple in the world of tabletop gaming.