AI: 100% Human, a card drafting and tableau-building game by Explor8, brings players into the digital realm to craft the perfect artificial intelligence. Featuring dual-phase drafting mechanics and strategic tableau building, this Essen 2024 release is solid in its design, though the theme feels somewhat detached. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the game’s […]
AI: 100% Human – Crafting the Ultimate Digital Mind Read More »
Patchwork, designed by Uwe Rosenberg, is a charming two-player game that brings quilting to life in a strategic and competitive format. Players take turns selecting fabric tiles to create the most aesthetically pleasing and complete quilt while managing resources like buttons and time. Simple yet deeply strategic, Patchwork is a standout in the realm of
Patchwork: A Cozy Duel of Fabric and Strategy Read More »
Arborea, designed by Dani Garcia and published by Alley Cat Games, sets players as Patron Spirits guiding their villagers to heal a cataclysm-stricken world. On the surface, the game’s unique premise, gorgeous production, and layered mechanics make it a standout contender in the Eurogame genre. However, beneath its polished exterior, Arborea struggles with point salad
Arborea: Beautiful but Unbalanced Read More »
Septima, designed by Robin Hegedűs and published by Mindclash Games, invites players to lead their covens in a strategic battle of wits, wisdom, and spells. With its intriguing theme and complex mechanics, Septima offers a unique experience where cooperation and competition intertwine. However, despite its clever ideas and stunning production, it’s not a perfect brew.
Septima: Witches in the Spotlight Read More »
Andromeda’s Edge, a spiritual successor to Dwellings of Eldervale, promises an epic sci-fi journey filled with resource gathering, ship battles, and civilization building. Designed by Luke Laurie and boasting a production packed with jaw-dropping miniatures and high-quality components, it’s a game that looks stellar. Unfortunately, beneath its shiny exterior, Andromeda’s Edge struggles to deliver the
Andromeda’s Edge: A Beautiful but Empty Galaxy Read More »
Zhanguo, designed by Marco Canetta and Stefania Niccolini, returns with a stunning reprint that elevates an already exceptional Eurogame. Set in the era of China’s unification under Qin Shi Huangdi, the game captures the monumental efforts of standardizing currency, writing, and laws while managing the emperor’s ambitious projects. With intricate mechanics, beautiful production, and thoughtful
Zhanguo: The Rebirth of a Masterpiece Read More »
Root, designed by Cole Wehrle and published by Leder Games, is a revolutionary asymmetric strategy game that brings the woodland creatures to life in a high-stakes battle for dominance. Whether you’re the industrial Marquise de Cat, the rebellious Woodland Alliance, the aristocratic Eyrie Dynasties, or the cunning Vagabond, each faction offers a unique playstyle and
Root: A Symphony of Strategy and Conflict Read More »
Fort, designed by Grant Rodiek and published by Leder Games, is a quirky deckbuilding game where players are kids competing to build the coolest fort. With its lighthearted theme and colorful art, it’s a charming entry into the world of card games. However, while Fort’s mechanics are unique and fun at first, its limited replayability
Fort: A Card Game That Loses Some Friends Read More »
Ahoy, designed by Greg Loring-Albright and published by Leder Games, sails into the niche of asymmetric strategy games as a spiritual successor to Root. Players take on roles as the Bluefin Squadron, Mollusk Union, or Smugglers, each with unique mechanics and goals. Despite its promising concept and gorgeous artwork, Ahoy struggles with convoluted rules and
Ahoy: A High Seas Hustle That Misses the Mark Read More »
