Ka Pai (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Ka Pai is a board game released in 2019 designed by Oliver Freudenreich and published by White Goblin Games. It is a children’s game that focuses on dice rolling, paper-and-pencil, and set collection mechanics. The game is suitable for 2 to 4 players, with a playtime of around 15 minutes. Players must strategize and collect different sets of symbols to earn points and win the game.

Game Components of Ka Pai

2 Dice

Scoring Pad

4 Pencils

How To Setup Ka Pai

To set up Ka Pai, each player receives a score sheet and a pencil. The youngest player starts by rolling the two dice. The game is ready to begin once all players have their sheets and pencils.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Dice Rolling: Each turn, one player rolls the two unique dice.

Paper-and-Pencil: Players draw symbols on their score sheets based on the dice rolls.

Route Building: Connecting totems with the same symbols.

Set Collection: Creating groups of three identical symbols.

Objective

Groups of Symbols: Form groups of three matching symbols (triangles, squares, circles) horizontally or vertically to score points.

Totems: Connect totems with the same symbol to score points for the highest number of connected totems.

Bonuses: Mark bonus fields on the sheet to earn extra points for each symbol group.

End Game: The game ends when all players fill their sheets, and the player with the most points wins.

Player Experience

Ka Pai requires strategic planning as players need to carefully decide where to place each symbol to maximize their score. The game starts open, with many choices available, but as the sheet fills up, decisions become more critical. The base game can feel somewhat dull in the mid-game phase, but expansions like Ranu introduce new challenges and strategically important decisions.

Pros

Unique Twist: Offers a fresh take on the roll and write genre with geometric shapes instead of numbers.

Simple yet Strategic: Easy to learn but requires thoughtful placement of symbols.

Large Player Count: Can be played with unlimited players.

Expansions: The Ranu expansion adds new challenges and interest to the game.

Cons

Controversial Theme: The Maori tribe theme has been a point of contention for some players.

Base Game Limitations: The base game can be dull in the mid-game phase without the expansions.

Limited Challenge: The open playing area in the base game makes mid-game decisions less challenging.

Personal Thoughts on Ka Pai

Ka Pai is a great option for those who enjoy roll and write games but are looking for something a bit different. While the base game may lack the excitement of other games in the genre, the expansions, particularly Ranu, add a new layer of complexity and challenge. It’s ideal for players who enjoy strategic planning and don’t mind a game that ramps up in complexity as it progresses. However, those sensitive to cultural themes may want to approach with caution due to the game’s Maori tribe theme.

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.