Catch-Up Mechanic

A catch-up mechanic is a rule built specifically to keep the player in last place from getting hopelessly stuck there. Maybe trailing players draw better cards, move faster, or get first pick on the next turn — some quiet nudge that narrows the gap instead of letting whoever got a strong start simply coast to the win.

It’s a small design detail that makes a real difference for family game nights especially, since it keeps a kid who fell behind early from checking out mentally for the rest of the game. If your table includes a mix of newer and more experienced players, a game with a solid catch-up mechanic tends to make for a friendlier, closer finish for everyone.