The Ethos of Schemata Games

We aim to create exciting, beautiful games of strategy and chance with simple rules but deep and infinitely variable play. Features of games we value are:

• Rules take only minutes to learn

• Complexity in each game emerges from dilemmas of choice

• There is enough chance in the mechanics for skilful players never to be sure of defeating inexperienced ones

• Seemingly inevitable victories can be reversed even late in the games

• In addition to engaging strategic and tactical thinking skills, games also engage players' imaginations.

Awards Won

The first game Niall designed, Thieves, won three prestigious awards. At the UK Games Expo 2018, it won both the 'Judges' and the 'People's Choice' for 'Best Abstract Game'. Later that year, Imagination Gaming (a UK business that promotes the value of games as part of social development) awarded Thieves their 'Family Gold' badge.

Who are Schemata Games?

We are a family-run design and publishing company founded by Niall Roper, its designer. In addition to designing games, he has worked as a theatre director and as a drama, media, and English teacher.

If you are curious about Niall's thoughts on game design and the process of setting up this company, please read his blog on this site.