I guess I got lucky in that I got an order from Miniatures Market in before the #Coronapocalypse shutdown kicked in really hard. Although I am a Grognard wargamer, I also want to play family boardgames. As much as the RockyMountainNavy family plays games, Mrs. RMN is a reluctant gamer. Sure, she encourages others to play, but she is reluctant to play herself. So I decided to try a new game that would (hopefully) attract her to the table.
The game I settled upon is Azul: Summer Pavilion (Next Move Games, 2019). Why Azul? Well, it aligns well with her (limited) gaming interests:
- It’s colorful
- It’s an abstract game (Qwirkle is a favorite)
- It’s easy to learn.
To date I have had limited success. I have yet to get Mrs. RMN to play even though we are now being detained ordered by the Governor to Stay at Home. However, the RMN Boys and I have played a few times. Our general reaction is that the game is more “thinky” than we expected. If your fellow gamers are prone to Analysis Paralysis this may NOT be the game to bring to the table if time is essential to you. I mean, the game is not hard to learn (the rules are rather simple) but the choices to make can be challenging. If you are really into puzzle games then Azul: Summer Pavilion will be right up your alley.
I have not given up yet on Mrs. RMN. I think that once she plays she will enjoy the game. Even if she doesn’t, the game is a good candidate for her older students. The ease of learning in many ways makes this a gateway game, however the strategy challenges makes it a lite-medium weight game.
Regardless of Mrs RMN plays, Azul: Summer Pavilion will stay on the gaming shelf (and table) in our Medium Gateway category.
Rocky Mountain Navy Gamer 
My wife isn’t much into gaming either. I think you’re on the right track. Abstract, visually-appealing games are a good idea.
I’d also suggest a game where luck plays as much a part in winning as skill (Non-gamers know that even when everybody’s new to a game, the gamers will catch on quicker and stomp everybody else at the table). Luck is the great equalizer.
She likes thinky games though. I will keep trying…I sense this stay at home ordeal will break her!
I like that version of Azul (much better in my opinion then second part). Great for playing with family. Have fun!