Lucca Comics & Games 2026 announces the five finalists for Board Game Designer of the Year, the prestigious award promoted by Lucca Crea in collaboration with SAZ Italia and dedicated to the creative excellence of Italian and international game authors. Competing for the title will be:
- Bruno Cathala, a master of creative collaboration and one of Europe’s most eclectic and prolific designers;
- Johannes Goupy, a rapidly rising French voice capable of combining original mechanics and engaging atmospheres;
- Tomáš Holek, a versatile author who moves naturally from family games to more demanding titles;
- Reiner Knizia, a true legend of international game design and a symbol of systemic innovation;
- and Paolo Mori, an unmistakable voice in the fusion of elegant mechanics and historical themes.
The winner will be announced during the awards evening at the Teatro del Giglio Giacomo Puccini.
