Targui (1988) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Targui is a strategic board game released in 1988, designed by Wil Dijkstra and Ben van Dijk. It is set in an Arabian theme and falls under the category of a wargame. The game features modular board elements, player elimination, tile placement, and variable set-up mechanics, making it a challenging and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of Targui

Variable game board

53 territorial cards with economic and strategic values

Area markers in four colors

16 (mis)fortune cards

20 pedigree cards

2 dice

Game pieces including camels and coins (silver and gold)

Territorial markers in four colors

Tribal cards with a Touareg device in four colors.

How To Setup Targui

To set up Targui, each player chooses a tribe and receives a settlement card and three tribal cards in the same color. Each player starts with 10 camels, 5 silver pieces, and 1 gold piece. The remaining camels, coins, and territorial markers are kept in the box. Players place their settlement card on the board, replace a territorial card from the chosen sector with their territorial marker, and position their 10 camels on the settlement card. The (mis)fortune cards are shuffled and stacked face down next to the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn System: The game proceeds in rounds, with each round consisting of a certain number of turns determined by dice rolls.

Territorial Control: Players aim to gain control over various desert territories, each with its own economic and strategic value.

Camel Management: Players can buy camels and use them to expand their territory or defend their base camp.

Fortune Cards: Two (mis)fortune cards are added to the round stack, introducing random events that players must manage.

Economic Management: Players must balance spending cash on camels and depositing it into their treasury, a secret pot of money that cannot be withdrawn.

Objective: The game ends after eight rounds, and the player with the most money in their treasury and in hand wins. If only one player remains, they are the winner.

Player Experience

Playing Targui is a complex and strategic experience that requires careful planning and resource management. The game is known for its innovative turn system, which adds a layer of unpredictability and tension. Players must navigate the challenges of the desert, including managing camels, defending territories, and making wise financial decisions.

Pros

Deep Strategy: The game offers a rich strategic depth, making it appealing to players who enjoy complex decisions.

Variable Setup: The variable game board ensures each game is different, enhancing replayability.

Historical Context: The game is based on the life of the Tuareg people, adding a unique cultural element.

Cons

Long Playtime: Targui can take up to three hours or even five hours to complete, which may deter some players.

Complex Rules: The game has intricate rules, which can be overwhelming for new players.

Limited Player Count: The game is best suited for 3 or 4 players, limiting its versatility for larger groups.

Personal Thoughts on Targui

Targui is a game for those who appreciate deep strategy and are willing to invest time and effort into mastering its mechanics. It is ideal for players who enjoy games with historical contexts and are looking for a challenging experience. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those with limited time, Targui offers a unique and immersive experience for serious board game enthusiasts.

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