Are newer Kickstarter board games worth backing or should I just wait for retail?

Kickstarter usually gets you a better price and earlier access to a game that might sell out before hitting stores, but you're gambling on whether the final product matches the hype or if it ships on time. If you're patient and don't mind paying full retail later, waiting is lower-risk, but if a game genuinely excites you and the creators have a solid track record, backing can be worth it.