Designers Released New Board Game Shapely

The tabletop game hit retail shelves in the summer of 2026 after eight years of development.

Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Board Games

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring an assortment of colorful abstract wooden geometric game pieces and simple tokens on a flat surface. — Board game designers Matt Golec and Arun Mehra released their new title, Shapely, into retail markets this summer following eight years of development. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you still prefer playing board games in person with friends over digital gaming alternatives?

Designers Matt Golec and Arun Mehra released the board game Shapely, which arrived in retail stores during the summer of 2026. Published by R&R Games, the title was developed over an eight-year period.

Why it matters

The developers created the game to serve as a social activity that encourages in-person interaction. Its release coincides with a period of significant growth in the North American board game industry.

Shapely features 216 word cards and accommodates two to six players. The game was in development for eight years before its release.

The players

Matt Golec

He is a game designer who previously co-produced the board game Penny Press in 2015.

Arun Mehra

He is a game designer who resides in Hanover and collaborated on the development of Shapely.

R&R Games

This is a Tampa, Florida-based publisher that officially released the game Shapely in 2026.

The details

Designers tested early prototypes at various gaming conventions, where they incorporated direct feedback from playtesters. They ultimately presented the final concept to R&R Games at a convention in Boston.

Matt Golec co-produced the board game Penny Press in 2015.
R&R Games agreed to publish the title in 2023.
The board game market reached $5.98 billion in 2025.
Shapely hit retail store shelves in the summer of 2026.
The market is projected to reach $7.40 billion in 2026.

Culture Shift

The rise of new tabletop titles reflects a broader trend of consumers seeking screen-free, in-person social experiences. This shift highlights a departure from digital-first entertainment toward physical, gathering-oriented board games.

Players can now purchase the game at retail locations to integrate it into their social routines. The title supports groups of two to six people, making it a flexible option for small gatherings.

The takeaway

Developing a tabletop game requires extensive testing and years of iterative feedback from the gaming community. Enthusiasts looking for new social activities can utilize games like Shapely to facilitate face-to-face engagement.