The Most Common Board Game Myths Debunked
By Stonemaier Games US & International Store | Published: 2026-09-01
Category: Industry News
Think you know board games? We debunk the most common myths and misconceptions, from legacy games to metal coins, with facts you can trust.
Quick Answer
Many board game myths persist, but the truth is often simpler. Legacy games aren't always one-time experiences, promos can enhance your game without breaking the bank, and metal coins are a worthwhile upgrade. Read on to separate fact from fiction.
Board games have been around for centuries, yet myths about them continue to circulate. From 'legacy games are only for hardcore gamers' to 'promo cards are just money grabs,' these misconceptions can prevent players from fully enjoying the hobby. In this article, we'll debunk some of the most common board game myths using facts from the Stonemaier Games catalog.
Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the table, understanding the truth behind these myths will help you make informed decisions and enhance your gaming experience. Let's dive in.
Myth 1: Legacy Games Are Only for Hardcore Gamers
Many believe that legacy games, which involve permanent changes to the game components, are too complex or intimidating for casual players. However, games like Charterstone are designed to be accessible. Charterstone is a competitive legacy game scaled for 1-6 players, making it perfect for small groups. It introduces legacy mechanics gradually, allowing players to learn as they play.

The game's setting—the Kingdom of Greengully—and its narrative-driven approach make it engaging for all skill levels. So, don't let the 'legacy' label scare you off. It's about the journey, not just the destination.
- Charterstone supports 1-6 players, making it flexible for different group sizes.
- The legacy mechanics are introduced step by step, so new players aren't overwhelmed.
Myth 2: Promo Cards Are Just Cash Grabs
Some players dismiss promo packs as unnecessary extras designed to milk money from fans. But promos often add meaningful variety and depth to a game. For example, the Rolling Realms Promo: Fleet The Dice Game adds six new promo cards inspired by Fleet: The Dice Game to Rolling Realms. This small expansion can refresh the game without a significant investment.
Similarly, the wyrmspan-996cd093acd0910bb8d947c6-625998">Rolling Realms Promo: Wyrmspan offers a new set of cards that keep the game exciting. At just $2.50 each, these promos are affordable ways to enhance your experience. They're not just cash grabs; they're thoughtful additions for fans.
- Promo packs are often low-cost, making them accessible for most players.
- They can provide new strategies and replayability without requiring a full expansion.
Myth 3: Metal Coins Are Unnecessary Luxuries
Many gamers think metal coins are overpriced and don't add real value. However, the tactile experience of handling metal coins can significantly enhance immersion. The 72 Metal Lira Coins (Viticulture) are thick, heavy coins that feel satisfying to hold. They come in three denominations: 36 copper 1-lira, 24 silver 2-lira, and 12 gold 5-lira coins, making them versatile for any Euro game.
The weight and texture of metal coins can make resource management more engaging and add a premium feel to your game nights. So, while they're not essential, they're far from unnecessary.
Myth 4: Board Game Accessories Are Gimmicks
Some players view accessories like board extensions as unnecessary. But practical accessories can solve real problems. For instance, the Scythe Board Extension increases the board size by 70%, giving players more space for units and resources. This can make the game more comfortable to play, especially with multiple players.
The extension slides next to the standard board, expanding it from 624x818mm to 818x939mm. It's a simple solution that improves the gaming experience without changing the game's content. So, accessories can be functional, not just flashy.
Verdicts
- Myth: Legacy games are only for hardcore gamers: Charterstone is designed for 1-6 players and introduces legacy mechanics gradually, making it accessible to all. Verdict: False.
- Myth: Promo cards are just cash grabs: Promo packs like Rolling Realms Promo: Fleet The Dice Game add new cards at a low cost, enhancing replayability. Verdict: False.
- Myth: Metal coins are unnecessary luxuries: Metal coins like the 72 Metal Lira Coins provide a satisfying tactile experience and are versatile across games. Verdict: False.
Product Facts
- Charterstone: Charterstone is a competitive legacy game scaled for 1-6 players, where players build their own village in the Kingdom of Greengully. This shows that legacy games can be enjoyed by small groups and are not exclusively for large, hardcore gaming sessions.
- Rolling Realms Promo: Fleet The Dice Game: This promo pack adds 6 promo cards inspired by Fleet: The Dice Game to Rolling Realms, requiring the core game. It demonstrates that promos can be affordable (only $2.50) and add meaningful content without requiring a full expansion.
- 72 Metal Lira Coins (Viticulture): These 72 thick metal coins include 36 copper 1-lira, 24 silver 2-lira, and 12 gold 5-lira coins, designed to fit any Euro game. Metal coins are a practical upgrade that enhances the tactile experience and can be used across multiple games.
Board game myths often stem from misinformation or assumptions. By examining the facts, we can see that legacy games, promos, and metal coins all offer real value. Next time you're considering a purchase, don't let myths hold you back. Explore our store to find the perfect addition to your collection.



