Lovely post, the concept hobby is very interesting to me..
As for board games (the real reason I feel this comment worthy), I play Go/Weiqi/Baduk, although I shudder at the word play when it comes to Go.. To be perfectly honest, improving at Go is part of my spiritual journey, it is an honest and relentless look at my dark side, and what work I have yet to do to further better myself.
Anyway, just love to spread the word about Go/Weiqi/Baduk whenever I can..
Thx for the post!