[magnus]

If you are learning Settlers, it's not enough to have players who know how to play.  Make sure they actually will teach you (instead of feeding on your new blood).  Nothing ruins a game faster than having experienced players dominate your first few plays.  Also, once you get the hang of it, the best experience (most checks and balances) is with the 4 player version (not including the expansions)

That said, my fave is Race for the Galaxy (and the first few expansions).  Hard as heck to learn, but once you _really_ learn it (10-20 games later), it's faster and more fulfilling (IMO) than Settlers.  Definitely, make sure you first play with an experienced player that is willing to handhold you.  The other benefit of RftG over Settlers is that you can play with just 2 players.

Robbie, do you have Titicaca? (don't add that to your cart, but just testing the bounds of Robbie's collection. =))

[magnus]

If you are learning Settlers, it's not enough to have players who know how to play.  Make sure they actually will teach you (instead of feeding on your new blood).  Nothing ruins a game faster than having experienced players dominate your first few plays.  Also, once you get the hang of it, the best experience (most checks and balances) is with the 4 player version (not including the expansions)

That said, my fave is Race for the Galaxy (and the first few expansions).  Hard as heck to learn, but once you _really_ learn it (10-20 games later), it's faster and more fulfilling (IMO) than Settlers.  Definitely, make sure you first play with an experienced player that is willing to handhold you.  The other benefit of RftG over Settlers is that you can play with just 2 players.

Robbie, do you have Titicaca? (don't add that to your cart, but just testing the bounds of Robbie's collection. =))