Game Jargon Definition: “Point Salad”

Point Salad (noun) - point sal · ad /ˈpȯint ˈsaləd/

A term referring to board game rules and mechanics that create many ways to score points (a.k.a. “many paths to victory”). In some games, this is taken to an extreme where nearly every action that a player can take in a game will gain some number of points—often for no apparent thematic reason. The specifics of how to earn points in any given game vary. Common ways are to place tiles, control territory on the board, ship cargo from point A to point B, collect a set of cards or other resource tokens, and have resources left over at the end of the game.

While “point salad” is often used as a pejorative term, there is some controversy as to whether the term should be considered pejorative at all. Critics of point-salad mechanics argue that it is difficult to focus on a specific winning strategy, especially for players who are experienced at the game. In addition, the sheer range of options for acquiring points can result in analysis paralysis for new and experienced players alike. On the other hand, supporters of point-salad mechanics argue that these mechanics afford the opportunity to try out different strategies during different plays of the game. In addition, supporters argue that they make it harder for experienced players to master optimal strategies, thereby making it easier for newer or inexperienced players to win.

Games that are commonly thought to use point-salad mechanics include: Castles of Burgundy (2011) designed by Stefan Feld and published by Ravensburger; Yokohama (2016) designed by Hisashi Hayashi and published by Tasty Minstrel Games; and Trajan (2011) designed by Stefan Feld and published by Ammonit Spiele.