Stone Age (2008) – Board Game Guys

Stone Age

“Stone Age” is a designer board game designed by Michael Tummelhofer and published by Hans im Glück in 2008. The game is set in the Stone Age theme and involves players taking control of a tribe to collect resources, build a village, and achieve the most powerful chief. The game has received positive reviews for its artwork, components, and multiple paths to victory.

Why is Stone Age Popular?

“Stone Age” is a popular and significant board game for several reasons:
– Engaging Theme: The game transports players back in time to the Stone Age, allowing them to experience a prehistoric setting and learn about ancient civilizations.
– Resource Management: Players must collect wood, break stone, and wash gold from the river, which simulates the challenges faced by early humans.
– Trading and Building: Players can trade freely, expand their village, and build various structures, allowing them to explore different strategies and paths to victory.
– Multiple Paths to Victory: The game offers a variety of ways to score points, such as completing buildings, collecting civilization cards, and having a powerful chief.

Game Components of Stone Age

Gameboard: 1

Individual player boards: 4

Wooden resources: 68

Wooden people: 40

Wooden markers: 8 (in 2 sizes)

Food tiles: 53

Building tiles: 28

Tool tiles: 18

Start player figure: 1

Civilization cards: 36

Dice: 7

Leather dice cup: 1

Information sheet: 1.

How To Setup Stone Age

To set up Stone Age, begin by placing the gameboard in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a set of wooden figures and places them on their individual player board. Shuffle and distribute the building tiles, tool tiles, and civilization cards according to the rules. Each player starts with a set amount of resources and food tiles. The start player figure is given to one player to determine who goes first. The dice and leather dice cup are placed within reach of all players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Resource Collection: Players collect wood, break stone, and wash gold from the river.

Action Placement: Players take turns placing their wooden figures on board spaces to perform actions.

Tool Usage: Players can use tool tiles to enhance their resource collection.

Building and Expansion: Expand your village by building new structures.

Civilization Advancement: Achieve new levels of civilization using civilization cards.

Food Management: Balance resource collection with food needs to sustain your tribe.

Objective: The goal is to build the most powerful chief by managing resources, expanding the village, and advancing civilization.

Player Experience

In Stone Age, players immerse themselves in a prehistoric world where they manage a tribe, collect resources, and build their village. The game requires a balance of luck and planning, as players need to ensure their tribe is well-fed while also advancing their civilization. The gameplay is engaging and accessible, making it a great introduction to more complex board games.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The Stone Age setting is unique and captivating.

Balanced Mechanics: Mix of luck and planning keeps the game exciting.

Components Quality: High-quality wooden resources and other components.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 13 and above.

Competitive: Players compete to build the most powerful chief.

Cons

Luck Factor: Dice rolls can significantly impact gameplay.

Resource Management: Managing food and resources can be challenging.

Setup Time: Initial setup may take a few minutes.

Personal Thoughts on Stone Age

Stone Age is ideal for those looking for a game that combines strategy with a fun, thematic experience. It’s a great introduction to more complex board games and is suitable for families or casual gaming groups. The game’s balance of resource management and civilization advancement makes it engaging for players who enjoy development games. If you’re looking for a game that’s easy to learn but challenging to master, Stone Age is an excellent choice.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.