Mana (1988) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Mana is a two-player abstract strategy board game that was released in in 1988. Designed by Claude Leroy and illustrated by Tom Delahaye, it falls under the category of children’s games. Published by Cosmoludo, Mana features point-to-point movement and a square grid as its main gameplay mechanisms. The game is suitable for players aged 8 and above and has a runtime of 10-30 minutes.

Game Components of Mana

Game board with a square grid

Colored counters for each player

Instruction booklet

How To Setup Mana

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Each player takes their colored counters and places them on opposite sides of the board.

Refer to the instruction booklet for specific setup rules.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Mana, players take turns moving their counters along the lines of the grid. The objective is to be the first player to create a connected path of your counters from one side of the board to the other, either vertically or horizontally.

Player Experience

Pros:

Quick gameplay that is easy to learn.

Strategic thinking required to outmaneuver your opponent.

Suitable for players of all ages.

Cons:

Limited replay value due to the relatively simple gameplay.

Lack of depth compared to other abstract strategy games.

Personal Thoughts on Mana

Mana is a charming children’s game that offers a fun and engaging experience for players looking for a quick and simple strategy game. While it may not have the depth of more complex abstract strategy games, Mana’s easy-to-understand rules and colorful design make it a great choice for families or casual gamers. The build quality of the components is decent, and the game is reasonably priced for what it offers. Both new and used copies of Mana are readily available, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

In terms of alternatives, players who enjoy Mana may also like games such as Quarto or Gobblet, which offer similar abstract strategy gameplay. Ultimately, whether Mana is worth your time will depend on your preferences as a player. If you enjoy light strategy games with a quick playtime, Mana is definitely worth checking out. However, if you prefer more complex and challenging games, you may want to skip Mana in favor of other options.

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.