Open drafting and closed drafting are two game mechanics that involve players taking turns selecting items, such as cards or tiles, from a pool of options.

Open drafting allows players to see the remaining options after each selection, allowing them to make informed decisions about their own choices. This type of drafting emphasizes strategy, as players must weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option and consider how their choices will impact their opponents’ options.

On the other hand, closed drafting keeps the remaining options hidden after each selection, adding an element of luck or chance to the game. Players cannot see what options are left and must make decisions based on limited information. This type of drafting can add a sense of unpredictability to the game and can also make it difficult for players to predict the strategies of their opponents.

In summary, open drafting emphasizes strategy, while closed drafting adds an element of luck or chance. The type of drafting used in a game can greatly impact the overall gameplay experience and can shape the strategies that players use to win.

Drafting Variations

There are several variations of the open/closed drafting mechanic, including:

Simultaneous Drafting: In this variation, players draft cards or tiles at the same time, rather than taking turns. This adds a time pressure element to the game and can increase the pace of play.

Multiple Picks: In this variation, players are allowed to select multiple cards or tiles during each draft, adding an element of strategy and decision making.

Secret Drafting: In this variation, players draft cards or tiles in secret, adding a layer of bluffing and deduction to the game.

Limited Picks: In this variation, players are only allowed to draft a limited number of cards or tiles, adding a resource management component to the game.

Snake Drafting: In this variation, players draft cards or tiles in a snake-like pattern, with the order of draft changing after each round. This adds a different element of strategy to the game and can increase replayability.

Pass and Play Drafting: In this variation, players pass a set of cards or tiles to the next player after each draft, changing the available options and adding an element of surprise to the game.

These variations add different challenges and elements of strategy to the closed drafting mechanic, and can make the game more complex and engaging for players. 

Here are 10 board games that feature both open and closed drafting mechanics with links to their Boardgamegeek page:

1. The 7th Continent
2. Gloomhaven
3. Thunderstone Quest
4. Star Realms
5. Clank!: A Deck-Building Adventure
6. Boss Monster: Rise of the Minibosses
7. Clank!: Legacy – Acquisitions Incorporated
8. Aeon’s End
9. The Captain is Dead
10. Arkham Horror: The Card Game

These games combine elements of both open and closed drafting mechanics to create unique and challenging gameplay experiences. They may feature different drafting mechanics for different phases of the game, or may switch back and forth between open and closed drafting as the game progresses.