Pixies (2024) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Pixies is a board game released in 2024 designed by Sylvain Trabut. The game is centered around a whimsical theme of pixies and fairies, set in a magical forest. Players take on the roles of pixies trying to collect the most valuable sets of cards to win the game. The game combines elements of set collection, connections, and open drafting, making it a unique and engaging gameplay experience.

Game Components of Pixies

Deck of cards featuring four different colors and various symbols (swirls, crosses, and color indicators)

Each card has a number from 1 to 9

The cards are illustrated with enchanting photos of models made by artist Sylvain Trabut from materials found in the woods.

How To Setup Pixies

To set up Pixies, players draw a number of cards equal to the number of players from the deck and place them face up in the middle. Each player then creates a 3×3 grid in front of them, numbered 1 to 9 in reading order. The game is ready to start once the initial cards are revealed and the players’ grids are set up.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Drafting: Players take turns selecting one card from the face-up cards in the middle to add to their 3×3 grid.

Tableau Building: Cards are placed in the grid according to their numbers.

Layering Cards: If a card is the second of its number, players choose one to place face up and the other face down. If a card is the third of its number, it is placed face down in an empty space.

Scoring: Points are awarded for visible symbols (swirls), penalized for ‘X’ marks, and earned for face-down cards underneath other cards. The largest color zone in the grid also scores points.

Game Objective: The game is played over three rounds, with the player having the most points at the end declared the winner.

Player Experience

Pixies is an easy-to-learn game that offers a surprising amount of depth and strategic decision-making. It is highly portable and can be played in 15 to 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick sessions with family and friends. The game’s abstract nature and reliance on card draw make it more tactical than strategic, but there is still room for clever maneuvering and “hate drafting” to hinder opponents.

Pros

Portability: The game is compact and easy to take anywhere.

Easy to Learn: Simple mechanics that can be grasped quickly.

Strategic Depth: Despite simplicity, there is room for tactical decisions.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 8 and above.

Beautiful Illustrations: The cards feature unique and enchanting artwork.

Cons

Luck of the Draw: The game is heavily influenced by the cards drawn.

Limited Strategic Complexity: More tactical than deeply strategic.

Dependence on Color Zones: Scoring can be heavily influenced by the largest color zone, which may not always be under direct control.

Personal Thoughts on Pixies

Pixies is an excellent choice for those looking for a quick, fun, and visually appealing card game. It is particularly suited for families with younger children or for groups seeking a light, easy-to-understand game. While it may not offer the same level of complexity as other games like Sea Salt and Pepper, Pixies stands out with its unique artwork and engaging gameplay, making it a great addition to any game collection.

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