Game Categories

 

Tabletop Scholars will feature games nominated to fit the particular needs and practical applications of several professional and educational categories

Nominate a Game

The Tabletop Scholars Conference welcomes submissions of commercially published tabletop games for evaluation in the Board Game Academic Accreditation. Games must demonstrate a practical application beyond entertainment in at least one of our recognized fields, including education, counseling, professional development, occupational therapy, or community engagement.

Education

  1. Pre-School / Early Childhood (Ages 3–5)
    • Games focused on basic skills: colors, shapes, counting, sharing, following simple directions, and sensory engagement.
    • Strong emphasis on physical safety, durability, and visual clarity.
  1. Elementary & Middle Childhood (Ages 6–11)
    • Games that build on reading, math, logic, cooperation, and early strategy.
    • Suitable for early readers through confident independent readers.
  1. Junior High / Early Adolescence (Ages 12–14)
    • Games incorporate higher-level reasoning, moderate complexity, and more sophisticated themes.
    • Social connections, teamwork, and identity-building themes are valued.
  1. High School / Adolescence (Ages 15–18)
    • Games supporting critical thinking, collaboration, negotiation, empathy, and subject-specific knowledge.
    • May incorporate mature but age-appropriate themes.
  1. Higher Education / Adult Education: (Ages 18-99) Undergraduate & Graduate Courses 
    • Games designed by subject area (e.g., STEM, Humanities, Social Sciences)
    • Awards given by subject area (e.g., “Best Game for History Instruction,” “Best Game for STEM Instruction”) rather than one broad “Higher Education” winner.
  1. Student Life & Activities
    • Games for Student Life: Residence Life, Clubs, Activities, Guidance, Advisement, Sports

Professional, Medical & Community Contexts

  1. Counseling & Personal Development 
    • Games for use in therapy, group counseling, and skills-building sessions.
    • Evaluated on therapeutic fit, emotional safety, and adaptability for diverse client needs.
  1. Community Development / Civic Engagement / Social Work
    • Games that support leadership training, conflict resolution, civic education, community planning, and social justice.
  1. Professional Development & Vocational Skills
    • Games that help individuals improve their workplace skills, leadership abilities, creativity, or personal growth outside formal classrooms.
  1. OT/Rehabilitation
    • Directly applies to rehabilitation or skill development goals.
  1. Other Fields of Interest, Study, or Practice
    • Any area, personal or group interest, industry, or profession can be considered.

Have a Game in Mind?

Submit a game for consideration for inclusion in the 2026 Tabletop Scholars Conference in Rochester, NY. 

Apply to Attend
Nominate a Game