Shifting Stones (2020) Board Game

Shifting Stones is a board game released in 2020 by Gamewright. Designed by J. Evan Raitt and illustrated by Kwanchai Moriya, the game falls under the abstract strategy category with a theme set in ancient times. Players are challenged to use pattern building mechanics to outsmart their opponents and claim victory.

Game Components of Shifting Stones

9 double-sided Stone tiles (Sun/Moon, Fish/Bird x2, Horse/Boat x3, Seed/Tree x3)

72 Pattern cards

5 Reference cards

1 dark-background Reference card to denote the starting player

How To Setup Shifting Stones

To set up the game, lay out the 9 Stone tiles randomly in a 3×3 grid. Ensure all tiles are oriented in the same direction to maintain a consistent view for all players. Shuffle the Pattern card deck and deal 4 cards to each player. Each player also receives a Reference card, with the starting player getting the dark-background Reference card.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Tile Manipulation: Players can discard Pattern cards to either swap two adjacent tiles or flip a tile to its opposite side.

Card Scoring: Players can score points by matching the Pattern cards with the current layout of the Stone tiles.

Hand Management: Players manage their hand of cards, choosing which to use for manipulation or scoring.

Objective:

The goal is to score the most points by matching the patterns on the cards with the Stone tile grid. The game ends when a player completes a specified number of missions based on the player count (e.g., 10 missions for a 2-player game, 9 for a 3-player game, etc.).

Player Experience

Shifting Stones offers a quick and engaging gameplay experience, typically lasting about 20 minutes. Players must adapt to the changing tile grid, using their cards strategically to either manipulate the tiles or score points. The game requires a balance between short-term and long-term planning, as the board state can change significantly between turns.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple setup and rules make it accessible to a wide range of players.

High Replayability: The random tile placement and card draw ensure a different game each time.

Quality Components: The thick, durable cardboard tiles and well-designed cards enhance the gameplay experience.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 8 and above, making it a great addition to family game nights.

Quick Playtime: Games are short, making it an excellent filler game.

Cons

Orientation Challenges: Maintaining the correct orientation of the tile grid can be confusing, especially for new players.

Luck Factor: Some scores can feel lucky, as the tile layout and card draws can significantly impact the outcome.

Limited Strategic Depth at Lower Player Counts: Games with fewer players can be too fast and lack the strategic complexity of higher player counts.

Personal Thoughts on Shifting Stones

Shifting Stones is ideal for those looking for a light, yet engaging puzzle game that can be played quickly. It is perfect for families, casual gamers, and those who enjoy abstract strategy games without the need for complex rules. While it may not offer the depth some strategy enthusiasts crave, it provides a satisfying and fun experience that rewards adaptability and strategic thinking. If you’re seeking a game that is easy to teach, quick to play, and offers a good balance of luck and strategy, Shifting Stones is a great choice.

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