Tatsu (2016) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Tatsu is an abstract strategy board game designed by John Yianni and published by Gen42 Games in in 2016. The game is inspired by the ancient Japanese game of Shogi and incorporates elements of dice rolling and strategic movement.

Game Components of Tatsu

18 Dragon Stones (Vine, Water, & Fire)

Quad Folding Board

2 Six Sided Dice

Illustrated Rules Leaflet

How To Setup Tatsu

To set up Tatsu, players need to unfold the quad folding board and distribute the dragon stones. Each player selects a set of dragon stones, and the game is ready to start. The setup is straightforward, allowing players to dive into the game quickly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Roll and Move: Players roll dice to determine their actions.

Push Your Luck: Players can choose to press their luck by rolling again or stopping.

Backgammon-style Movement: Pieces move around the board based on dice rolls.

Game Objective

Win by destroying all of one type of your opponent’s dragon stones.

Alternatively, win by removing all of your opponent’s dragon stones from play.

Player Experience

Tatsu offers a fast-paced and engaging experience, appealing to both children and adults. The game is easy to pick up, making it accessible to new players, while its strategic depth keeps experienced players returning for more. The tactile dragon stones and beautifully illustrated board enhance the overall gaming experience.

Pros

Easy to learn

Fast-paced gameplay

Strategic depth

Beautifully illustrated board

Tactile dragon stones

Cons

Limited player count (2 players)

Simple rules might not appeal to complex game enthusiasts

Personal Thoughts on Tatsu

Tatsu is an excellent choice for those looking for a quick, strategic game that is fun for the whole family. It is particularly suitable for parents seeking a game that can help their children develop concentration, social skills, number recognition, and other cognitive abilities. For casual gamers, Tatsu provides a delightful mix of luck and strategy, making it a great addition to any board game collection. However, it may not be the best fit for gamers seeking complex, multiplayer experiences.

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