How did you get in to Blood Bowl?
An analysis of how 327 Blood Bowl coaches were introduced to the boardgame.
Blood Bowl is turn-based game loosely based on American football and set in the Warhammer universe. Dwarves, elves, goblins and more play in teams against each other where the aim of the game is as much to kill opposition players, as it is to score touchdowns.
A specialist game from the stable of Games Workshop, it has a relatively small, but dedicated, fanbase of players who play both casually and semi-seriously in organised tournaments. At the 2023 World Cup, held in Alicante, some 2500 coaches turned up for 3 days of rolling dice and cursing luck.
I started playing Blood Bowl as a teenager, back in the early 1990s. This was the 3rd edition of the game, released in 1991. The first version was released in 1986. Since the 3rd edition, the rules of the game have barely changed. Some would say it is the near perfect boardgame…
There is also a computer game version: Blood Bowl 3 was released in 2023, and there is also a free, community-developed, browser-based version called Fumbbl.
Back in the 90s I played with my brothers and some friends, but, like many I suppose, I stopped playing when I went to university and somehow forgot about the game. Twenty years later, during Covid lockdown, I re-discovered Blood Bowl and found I was one of many returners.
I can’t remember much about those first few games of Blood Bowl. I can only remember that I played. Now, playing as an adult, I have become fascinated with how people pick up the game, and why some people love the game, while others (e.g. my wife!) really don’t get it.
You see, Blood Bowl is, in my opinion, pretty damn hard to pick up and play. The rules are not outrageously complicated, but it takes quite a bit of time to learn. Especially when you consider the number of teams, and special skills (not to mention erratum!). I just wonder why, for some people, this crazy combination of luck and strategy appeals so much.
So to try and answer these questions, I created a survey, comprising 26 questions — a mixture of single answer, multiple choice and some open text answers. I posted the link to the survey in: the Blood Bowl Community Facebook Group, the Blood Bowl subreddit, and several Discord communities: The Tiki Hut, Berlin Open, NAF and Blood Bowl 3.
In total the survey received 327 responses. Since many of the questions allowed for long-form answers, and that means a lot of text to analyse, I have used a Large Language Model (LLM) to summarise some of the responses. LLM-generated answers (by Claude) are indicated. Let’s take a look at the data.
How long have you been playing Blood Bowl?
Well over 50% of the respondents have been playing Blood Bowl for more than 5 years.
How often do you usually play Blood Bowl?
Almost exactly 50% of players manage to play once a week or more. Lucky buggers.
What kind of Blood Bowl player would you describe yourself as?
We do like to take our Blood Bowl semi-seriously — 65% of respondents “play for fun but often in competitive tournaments” (myself included).
Do you play at Blood Bowl tournaments?
Only 33% of players do not ever play at Blood Bowl tournaments. For those that do, one tournament a quarter is the most common frequency.
In what setting(s) do you currently play Blood Bowl?
To my surprise, the most common playing format was local league, followed by casual games. Note: many more people answered Fumbbl as one of the “Other” responses. One poor sod answered that they had not played a game yet.
Are you a NAF member?
Nearly ⅔ of respondents were members of NAF — the (unofficial) association of players dedicated to Blood Bowl, which also ratifies the majority of the tournaments that people play in (see above question).
Which Blood Bowl variant did you start with?
With this question, I really wanted to understand with which variant of the game people started playing, therefore I did not ask about which Blood Bowl edition they started with. I did, however, forget to ask about the Blood Bowl 1 computer game, and the Tabletop Simulator version (which tbh I had never seen before).
Unsurprisingly, the vast majority of players started with regular tabletop Blood Bowl. A significant 17.1% started with Blood Bowl 2 (BB2) computer game. Only 2.1% (7 players) had started with Blood Bowl 3 (BB3). Whether this is due to BB3’s disastrous launch, or just because BB2 has been around longer (launched 2015) is hard to say. I am annoyed that I forgot to ask about BB1 computer game, but assume that many of the 4.6% that answered “Other” started this way.
I was actually surprised that only 3.4% of players started with Blood Bowl Sevens — perhaps because the official format is new. I have personally found Sevens a much easier way to introduce new players to the game.
Note: Blood Bowl 3 is pretty much fine to play now — so if you haven’t already, check it out on Steam now. It is also available on Xbox and Playstation and cross-play is now supported.
How old were you when you started playing Blood Bowl?
Lesson: don’t bother introducing 9-year-olds to Blood Bowl.
To which gender identity do you most identify?
Blokes, blokes, blokes. Anybody that has been to a Blood Bowl tournament will not be surprised by this result. The results in full:
- Male: 307 (93.9%)
- Female: 5 (1.5%)
- Prefer not to say: 11 (3.4%)
- Transgender female: 1 (0.3%)
- Transgender males: 0
- Gender variant / Non-conforming: 3 (0.9%)
On a scale of 1–6, how inclusive/friendly do you consider the Blood Bowl community?
(where 1 = Not inclusive/friendly at all; 6 = Very inclusive/friendly)
Just because it is a bit blokey, doesn’t mean the Blood Bowl community is not welcoming. Hopefully, this result is also familiar to most Blood Bowl players that have been to a tournament, or regularly play in a local league. We are pretty much a nice bunch of people.
Why don’t you play more Blood Bowl?
I wanted to find out what prevents people playing more Blood Bowl. This was a free text answer and with 272 responses, I have used the Claude.ai Large Language Model (LLM) to analyse and summarise the results.
Here are the summarised reasons:
/start Claude
Key reasons preventing more frequent play:
- Time constraints
- Family commitments
- Work obligations
- Lack of local players/opponents
- Scheduling difficulties
- Travel/distance to tournaments or leagues
- Cost (of travel, new teams, etc.)
- Other hobbies/games competing for time
- Burnout/fatigue
Time constraints appear to be the most prevalent factor by far. Many respondents simply cited “time” or “lack of time” as their main obstacle. This likely intersects with other frequently mentioned reasons like family commitments (especially young children), work obligations, and scheduling difficulties.
Family commitments, particularly caring for young children, was very commonly mentioned. Several respondents specifically noted having a young family or kids as a limiting factor.
Work-related constraints were also frequently cited, with respondents mentioning job schedules conflicting with play opportunities.
The lack of local players or opponents was another significant theme. Some respondents noted living in areas with few other Blood Bowl players, making it difficult to find games.
Travel distance and associated costs for tournaments or leagues was mentioned by several respondents, suggesting geographic distribution of play opportunities is a factor.
Other hobbies or games competing for limited free time was noted by some respondents, indicating Blood Bowl must compete with other leisure activities.
While mentioned less frequently, some respondents cited factors like burnout, the length of games, or the complexity of rules as reasons for not playing more often.
In conclusion, the primary obstacles appear to be related to time management, with family and work obligations being the most significant specific factors limiting play frequency. The availability of local opponents and geographic distribution of play opportunities also emerge as notable barriers for many respondents.
/end Claude
(Side note: wow this LLM stuff really works well for summarising results!)
Who is the best Star Player in Blood Bowl?
Reassuringly there was little variance in the answers to this side-question as 100% of respondents voted for Puggy Baconbreath. To be fair, Puggy was also the only answer option, but I think the result stands.
Which variant of Blood Bowl do you currently play?
It was somehow reassuring to see that quite a few people are indeed playing Blood Bowl 3.
How important is the painting side of Blood Bowl to you?
I was happy to see that for so many people, like myself, the painting side of the hobby is as important as the playing side. Fortunately, very few people actively dislike painting. Those 8.9% that play with unpainted miniatures just need to find a commission painter, which are currently only used by 5.5% of respondents.
Now is probably a fair point for me to give a wee plug for my Minnnis.com website where you can find commission painters near you.
Does Nuffle love you?
Does Nuffle love any of us?
Unfortunately I made a mistake with this question because the reality is that Nuffle both loves us and hates us equally, sometimes both at the same time, as He sees fit. Nevertheless, I present the summarised answers:
What games did people play before they started to play Blood Bowl?
I want to identify potential players who might enjoy trying Blood Bowl based on their answers to this question.
/start Claude
Summary of games played before Blood Bowl:
1. Other Warhammer games (e.g. 40k, Age of Sigmar)
2. Chess
3. Poker
4. Risk
5. Other strategy war games
6. Hungry Hippos
7. Board games in general
8. Role-playing games (RPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons
9. Magic: The Gathering
10. Computer/video games
Analysis:
Other Warhammer games, particularly Warhammer 40,000 and Age of Sigmar, were very frequently mentioned. This suggests a significant overlap between the Blood Bowl player base and the broader Games Workshop hobby community.
Traditional strategy games like Chess, Poker, and Risk were commonly cited. This indicates that many Blood Bowl players have a background in strategic thinking games.
“Other strategy war games” was a frequent response, suggesting that many players came to Blood Bowl with experience in various tabletop wargames or strategy games.
Surprisingly, Hungry Hippos was mentioned several times. While this might be partially in jest, it could also indicate that some players had a background in lighter, more casual games before getting into Blood Bowl.
Board games in general were mentioned by many respondents, indicating a broad tabletop gaming background among Blood Bowl players.
Role-playing games, particularly Dungeons & Dragons, were noted by some respondents, suggesting an overlap with the RPG community.
Magic: The Gathering was mentioned by a few respondents, indicating some crossover with the collectible card game community.
Some respondents mentioned computer or video games, particularly strategy games, as part of their gaming background.
A few respondents indicated they hadn’t played any other games before Blood Bowl, suggesting it was their entry point into gaming.
In conclusion, the responses indicate that Blood Bowl attracts players from a diverse gaming background, with a particularly strong connection to other Games Workshop products and strategic board games. The variety of games mentioned suggests that Blood Bowl appeals to players who enjoy strategic thinking, regardless of the specific game format.
/end Claude
Who introduced you to the game?
For a third of respondents, they introduced themselves to the game. Over a third were introduced by a friend.
How did people learn to play Blood Bowl?
Again we turn to Claude for analysis.
/start Claude
Summary of how respondents learned to play Blood Bowl:
1. Playing against other beginners
2. Learning from experienced players
3. Via computer games (especially Blood Bowl 2 and Blood Bowl 3)
4. Reading the rulebook
5. Joining a local league
6. Watching videos or streams
7. Playing simplified versions or with simplified rules
8. Through friends or family members
9. At Games Workshop stores
10. Self-taught through trial and error
Analysis:
Playing against other beginners was a common learning method. Many respondents mentioned learning alongside friends who were also new to the game.
Learning from experienced players was frequently cited. Many learned by playing against veteran players who could explain rules and strategies during the game.
Computer games, particularly Blood Bowl 2 and Blood Bowl 3, were often mentioned as learning tools. The digital versions helped many players understand the basic mechanics and rules.
Reading the rulebook was a common approach, often in combination with other methods. Some mentioned studying the rules extensively before playing.
Joining a local league was a popular way to learn, with many citing the supportive environment of a league for new players.
Watching videos, streams, or battle reports was mentioned by several respondents as a way to learn strategies and rules.
Some learned through simplified versions of the game (like Blood Bowl Sevens) or by starting with simplified rules and gradually introducing complexity.
Friends and family members introducing the game was a common theme, often leading to learning through casual games.
Games Workshop stores were mentioned as a learning environment, with staff or other players teaching the basics.
Some respondents described a self-taught approach, learning through trial and error over multiple games.
Many respondents described a combination of these methods, such as reading the rulebook and then playing against experienced players, or starting with the computer game before moving to tabletop.
In conclusion, the responses indicate a diverse range of learning methods, with many players using multiple approaches. The social aspect of learning (from friends, experienced players, or in leagues) seems particularly important, as does the role of digital versions in introducing new players to the game. The variety of learning methods suggests that Blood Bowl is accessible through multiple entry points, catering to different learning styles and preferences.
/end Claude
Why do you play Blood Bowl?
What aspect of the game most interest you?
/start Claude
Summary of why respondents play Blood Bowl and what aspects interest them most:
- Strategy and tactical depth
- Combination of strategy and luck/randomness
- Social aspect and community
- Unique theme and setting (fantasy football)
- Team development and progression
- Painting and modeling aspect
- Variety of teams and play styles
- Fun and humor
- Competitive aspect
- Narrative and storytelling elements
Analysis:
Strategy and tactical depth were frequently cited as major draws. Many respondents enjoy the puzzle-like nature of each turn and the overall strategic planning required.
The combination of strategy and luck/randomness was often mentioned as a unique and appealing aspect. Many enjoy how the game balances skill with unpredictability.
The social aspect and community were highly valued. Many respondents appreciate the friendships formed, the camaraderie at tournaments, and the overall welcoming nature of the Blood Bowl community.
The unique theme of fantasy football was a big draw for many. The blend of sports mechanics with a fantasy setting was often cited as a novel and engaging concept.
Team development and progression in league play was frequently mentioned. Many enjoy watching their team grow and evolve over time.
The painting and modeling aspect was important for many respondents, adding an additional creative dimension to their enjoyment of the game.
The variety of teams and play styles was often cited as keeping the game fresh and interesting, allowing for diverse tactical approaches.
The fun and humorous elements of the game were frequently mentioned. Many appreciate that Blood Bowl doesn’t take itself too seriously.
The competitive aspect appeals to many, with respondents enjoying the challenge of tournaments and improving their skills.
Narrative and storytelling elements were important to some, with respondents enjoying the stories that emerge through play and team development.
Many respondents mentioned multiple aspects, indicating that the combination of these elements contributes to the game’s appeal. For example, the mix of strategy, luck, and humor was often cited as a unique and engaging combination.
Some respondents also mentioned practical aspects, such as the relatively low model count making it more affordable and easier to get into compared to other miniature games.
In conclusion, Blood Bowl seems to appeal to a wide range of gaming preferences, combining strategic depth with elements of chance, social interaction, and creative expression. The unique theme and variety of play experiences appear to keep the game engaging for players over the long term. The strong community aspect also emerges as a key factor in the game’s enduring popularity.
/end Claude
Having learned to play Blood Bowl yourself, what do you think is the ideal way to learn how to play Blood Bowl?
/start Claude
Key methods suggested for learning Blood Bowl:
- Playing with an experienced coach/player
- Learning through actual gameplay
- Starting with simplified versions (e.g., Blood Bowl Sevens)
- Using the computer game versions
- Joining a beginner-friendly league
- Watching tutorial videos or streams
- Reading the rulebook, then playin
- Playing against other beginners
- Gradual introduction of rules and complexity
- Combination of methods (e.g., computer game + tabletop)
Analysis:
Playing with an experienced coach or player was the most frequently suggested method. Many respondents emphasized the value of having someone explain rules, strategies, and the ‘why’ behind moves during actual gameplay.
Learning through actual gameplay was heavily emphasized. Many suggested that hands-on experience is crucial, even if mistakes are made early on.
Starting with simplified versions of the game, particularly Blood Bowl Sevens, was often recommended as a way to grasp basic concepts before moving to the full game.
The computer game versions (particularly Blood Bowl 2 and 3) were frequently cited as good learning tools, as they enforce rules and can help visualize game mechanics.
Joining a beginner-friendly league was suggested by many as a supportive environment to learn and improve.
Watching tutorial videos, streams, or battle reports was mentioned as a useful supplementary method to understand strategies and rules.
Reading the rulebook and then applying that knowledge in games was suggested by some, often in combination with other methods.
Playing against other beginners was recommended by some, allowing new players to learn together without feeling overwhelmed.
Many suggested a gradual introduction of rules and complexity, starting with basic mechanics and slowly adding more advanced concepts.
A combination of methods was often recommended, such as using the computer game to learn basics, then transitioning to tabletop with experienced players.
Several respondents stressed the importance of patience and accepting that mistakes will be made in the learning process.
Some mentioned the value of demo games or introductory sessions at local game stores or events.
In conclusion, the most recommended approach seems to be hands-on learning with guidance from experienced players, often starting with simplified versions or computer games before moving to the full tabletop experience. The responses suggest that a multi-faceted approach, combining different learning methods, may be most effective for mastering the complexities of Blood Bowl.
/end Claude
How many games/sessions of Blood Bowl do you think you had to play before you consider yourself able to play Blood Bowl properly?
Do you ever watch Blood Bowl streaming on Twitch?
Interestingly, 4 respondents identified as Andy Davo. That is 4x more than the known number of Blood Bowl playing Andy Davos, so came as somewhat of a surprise.
On a Scale of 1–6 how difficult do you think Blood Bowl is to learn to play, in comparison to other games you have played?
The answers to this really surprised me. I admittedly don’t have that much experience of other complicated board games, but Blood Bowl strikes me as pretty difficult to learn. It seems not all share this view. I suspect familiarity bias.
(where 1 = Super-easy; 6 = Ye gads it is difficult)
How likely is it that you would recommend Blood Bowl to a friend or colleague?
This question was to find the Net Promoter Score (NPS) for Blood Bowl. NPS is a customer loyalty metric that measures the likelihood of customers recommending a product or service to others, based on responses to a single question.
The responses were broken down as:
- Promoters (9–10): 103
- Passives (7–8): 24
- Detractors (0–6): 21
This means that Blood Bowl has a NPS of 55.4%, which is considered excellent. Blood Bowl has significantly more promoters than detractors among its player base
Have you helped beginners learn to play Blood Bowl?
90% of respondents have helped someone else learn to play Blood Bowl. You good coaches you.
How would you get more people into Blood Bowl?
/start Claude
- Organize demo games and introductory events at local game stores and conventions
- Promote the game through social media and online platforms
- Encourage existing players to introduce the game to friends and family
- Use the video game versions (BB2, BB3) as entry points for new players
- Start and promote local leagues, especially beginner-friendly ones
- Offer simplified versions like Blood Bowl Sevens for newcomers
- Improve advertising and visibility, including mainstream media
- Make the game more affordable, particularly starter sets
- Enhance inclusivity and create a welcoming community atmosphere
- Cross-promote with other games and hobbies (e.g., American football, strategy games)
- Host learn-to-play events and training camps
- Showcase the game in public spaces to attract curious onlookers
- Improve the quality and accessibility of tutorial materials
- Emphasize the social and fun aspects of the game when promoting it
Many respondents stressed the importance of making the game more visible and accessible, while also highlighting the community aspect and the game’s unique blend of strategy and humour. The suggestions generally aim to lower the entry barrier for new players while showcasing what makes Blood Bowl appealing to its existing fan base.
/end Claude
Hope you enjoyed this analysis. If you took part in the survey, thank you very much! May Nuffle bless you and your dice.
If you want to add to the discussion, please feel free to leave a comment below. Oh and remember to check out www.minnnis.com for commission artists to paint your minis!
