Board Gems started because Dawn Mullins wanted a place to share the kind of board game insight she rarely found elsewhere—honest, straightforward reflections on strategies and those hidden gems that don’t always get the spotlight. She’s played hundreds of games over the years, not just for fun but to really understand what makes them tick and how small shifts in approach can change the whole experience.
This site isn’t about flashy hype or surface-level reviews; it’s about digging into the parts of board games that often get overlooked. Dawn writes from her own experiences—both the wins and the frustrating moments—because she knows that’s what helps people get a real feel for a game. The strategies shared here aren’t pulled from theory alone, but from sitting at the table, dealing with different players, and seeing what works in practice.
Board Gems exists to be a genuine resource for people who love board games but want more than just the obvious. It’s a place where you can find thoughtful thoughts on lesser-known titles that might become your next favorite, and practical ways to up your game without all the fluff. Dawn’s hope is that by sharing her honest take, others can enjoy better game nights, discover new favorites, and feel confident about what’s worth trying.
At its core, this site is about connection—between players, between strategies, and between the stories that games help create. If you’re here, it’s probably because you want something real and relatable about board games, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Board Gems.