Cairn (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Cairn is a board game released in 2019 and designed by Christian Martinez. It is a two-player game that falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy, Fantasy, Miniatures, and Prehistoric. The game features grid movement and tile placement mechanics, making it a strategic and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of Cairn

5 shaman miniatures for each player

3 double-sided action tiles

14 megalith tiles with various bonus actions

Transformation tiles

5×5 grid game board

Rulebook

How To Setup Cairn

To set up Cairn, place the 5×5 grid game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player starts with three of their five shaman miniatures on the board, positioned in the row closest to them, and the remaining two shamans in their village area. Two megaliths are placed on the middle row of the board, and the next two megaliths are positioned on the edges. The double-sided action tiles and transformation tiles are randomized and placed on the side of the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Construct three megaliths before the opponent.

Action Tiles: Each turn, players choose one of three visible actions from the double-sided action tiles, which include:
– Move a shaman orthogonally or diagonally.
– Jump over one of your own pieces or your opponent’s.
– Deploy another shaman in either the black or white zone.

Megaliths: Land on a megalith tile to perform its special action. Megaliths can be added by either moving a shaman off the opposite side of the board or achieving a transformation effect.

Transformation Tiles: Complete the pattern on the transformation tile to eliminate an opponent’s piece and add a megalith.

Winning Condition: The game ends when one player has constructed three megaliths.

Player Experience

Cairn offers a quick and tactical gaming experience, with games typically lasting around 20 minutes. The game situation changes nearly every turn due to the flipping of the action tiles, adding a layer of complexity and strategy. Players need to balance short-term moves with long-term planning, considering both their own actions and the opportunities they leave for their opponent. The introduction of megaliths adds randomness and new manipulation possibilities, making each game unique.

Pros

Unique Gameplay: Each game is different due to the random setup of megaliths and action tiles.

Strategic Depth: Despite simple rules, the game requires tactical and strategic thinking.

Quick Games: Games are relatively short, lasting about 20 minutes.

Level Playing Field: The mechanics help even out the playing field between players of different skill levels.

Combo Potential: Megaliths allow for complex combinations of moves, enhancing the gameplay experience.

Cons

Graphic Design Issues: Some players find the black vs. white action icons hard to distinguish, and the megalith icons are too small.

Initial Complexity: New players might find it challenging to keep track of all the possible actions and transformations.

Limited Theme: The theme is somewhat pasted on and not deeply integrated into the gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Cairn

Cairn is an excellent choice for fans of abstract and tactical games, particularly those who enjoy two-player duels. It is suitable for seasoned gamers who appreciate strategic depth and the ability to plan several moves ahead. However, new gamers might find the initial complexity overwhelming, so it’s best for those with some experience in abstract games. The game’s ability to level the playing field makes it a great option for players with a mismatch in skill levels, ensuring both players remain competitive throughout the game.

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