'Sisters are doing it themselves!' As Annie Lennox and Aretha Franklin sang in their feminist anthem way back in 1985, and yet, nearly 40 years later, we are still struggling to actually make a difference!

On March 8, International Women's Day, it's important to recognize the contributions of women in the world of board games. While the industry has seen a notable increase in female representation, we know there is still much to be done. However, we cannot ignore the extraordinary work of some female game designers who have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape.

Here are some influential female figures in the board game world who deserve to be celebrated:

Elizabeth Hargrave

Elizabeth Hargrave made a triumphant entrance into the world of board games with her acclaimed game 'Wingspan'. Her innovative design and ability to combine complex game mechanics with an engaging presentation have captured the attention of gamers around the world. With titles like 'Mariposas' and her new project as a developer with ' Wyrmspan ', Hargrave continues to demonstrate her talent for creating games that captivate and inspire."

Michaela "Min" Stachova

Michaela "Min" Stachova, best known as one half of the design duo behind ' The Lost Ruins of Arnak' , has proven to have an extraordinary talent for creating immersive gaming experiences. Their game of exploring the unknown island has captured the imagination of many gamers with its innovative mechanics and adventurous setting. Her ability to create games that skillfully combine worker placement and deck building is a testament to her creative ingenuity.

Inka Brand

Inka Brand is a ubiquitous presence in the world of board games. With an impressive list of designs ranging from the imaginative 'Andor: Junior' to the intricate escape room games of the ' Exit ' series, Brand demonstrates her versatility and ability to create unique gaming experiences. Her constant commitment to bringing new ideas and innovations to the industry makes her a key figure in the contemporary gaming landscape.

These are just a few of the many amazing female game designers who have helped shape the world of board games. As we celebrate International Women's Day, we recognize and celebrate their talent, creativity, and lasting impact on our beloved passion for board games!

But we can't forget to recognize and thank all the other women who work hard in the gaming industry, from Content Creators, including Italian ones, to bloggers, from designers to illustrators, from reviewers to players. It is thanks to their commitment that we can enjoy an increasingly inclusive and diverse gaming community.

Best wishes to all the women and those working to promote gender equality and inclusion in the world of board games. May this day be a time to celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to an ever brighter future for our hobby!

This article aims to celebrate the dedication and talent of female game designers in the world of board games, recognizing their essential role in shaping and enriching our gaming community.