Akua (2016) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Akua is a board game released in 2016, designed by Oliver Howe and featuring artwork by Small Box Games. It falls under the category of Area Majority / Influence Line Drawing Worker Placement games, providing a unique and engaging gameplay experience for 2-4 players.

Game Components of Akua

A plastic game board

Two sheets (one for the board and one for rules)

Dry erase markers (players need to have multiple colors)

How To Setup Akua

To set up Akua, players start by laying out the plastic game board and the rules sheet. Each player selects a set of dry erase markers, as the game requires multiple colors. The game board depicts an archipelago, and players will draw directly on it using the markers.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Phases: Each round involves multiple phases, including exploring the archipelago, connecting dots, staking claims on mana stones, and praying to the akua.

Marking the Board: Players use dry erase markers to make various marks such as ley lines, communions, and other actions.

Akua Selection: Players select akua and perform actions based on the akua’s top or bottom options.

Scoring: Points are earned through ley lines, mana stones, explored islands, and surrounding dots. End-game bonuses also apply.

Game Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most points by strategically making marks on the board and interacting with the akua.

Player Experience

Akua offers a complex and intricate gameplay experience. Initially, the game seems simple, with players making basic marks on the board. However, it quickly evolves into a maze of phases, permitted and restricted options, and multiple scoring opportunities. This complexity can be both engaging and frustrating, as players need to constantly consider various strategies and scoring paths.

Pros

Inventive and Portable: The game is highly portable and innovative in its use of dry erase markers.

High Replayability: The game offers a lot to consider each time it is played, making it highly replayable.

Visual Appeal: The game looks good and is easy to set up.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game has overly complex rules and multiple phases, which can be confusing.

Opaque Scoring: The scoring system is not straightforward, making it difficult to keep track of points.

Limited Appeal: The game’s complexity may limit its appeal to only those who enjoy parsing through numerous game mechanics.

Personal Thoughts on Akua

Akua is for players who enjoy strategic depth and are willing to invest time in understanding complex game mechanics. While it is inventive and visually appealing, its opacity in rules and scoring may deter casual gamers. For those who relish in the challenge of complex strategies and multiple scoring paths, Akua could be a rewarding experience. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking simplicity or quick, straightforward gameplay.

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