Yin Yang (2019) Board Game
Yin Yang is a board game released in 2019 by BGNations, designed by DuGuWei. The game is inspired by the ancient concept of Yin and Yang, representing the dualistic nature of the universe in Chinese philosophy.
Game Components of Yin Yang
How To Setup Yin Yang
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Players move their tokens around the circular track, collecting Yin and Yang tokens and gaining influence in different areas. The objective is to achieve balance between Yin and Yang, while strategically placing influence markers to control key areas on the board.
Player Experience
#
Pros
#
Cons
Personal Thoughts on Yin Yang
Yin Yang is a visually stunning game with a thought-provoking theme. The gameplay is engaging and offers a lot of depth for strategic players. However, the reliance on dice rolling may not appeal to everyone, as it introduces an element of luck that can sway the game in unexpected ways.
In terms of build quality, Yin Yang is well-crafted with attention to detail in the artwork and components. The game falls into the category of area majority/influence games, adding a unique twist with its thematic elements.
Pricing and availability of Yin Yang may vary, but it is worth considering for players who enjoy strategic gameplay and are interested in exploring different cultural themes. Alternatives and similar games could include other area control games like Terra Mystica or Blood Rage.
In conclusion, Yin Yang is a game that is worth your time if you are a fan of strategic board games and enjoy exploring different themes and mechanics. It may not be suitable for casual players or those who prefer luck-free gameplay. Players who appreciate a blend of thematic depth and strategic challenge will find Yin Yang to be a rewarding experience.
Game Components of Yin Yang
How To Setup Yin Yang
To set up Yin Yang, players start by placing the central board, which depicts the map of ancient China. Each player receives a player board and a monk token. The goods (gems) and temple tokens are placed according to the setup rules. The metal tortoiseshell and coins are prepared for use. The action tiles and chits are randomized and placed on designated spaces on the central board. Players then arrange their initial goods on their player board according to the randomized chits.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
– Players move around the central board using actions like moving over roads, moving over water, collecting goods, or building temples.
– Each turn, players use a metal tortoiseshell and six coins to determine their actions. The coins are shaken and arranged into two sets of three coins to select actions.
– Goods are placed on a grid on the player board to unlock scoring abilities at the end of the game.
– Building temples in different cities to achieve area control and earn points.
Player Experience
Playing Yin Yang involves a mix of strategic planning and luck. The game is relatively short, lasting about 45 minutes, and features easy rules, making it accessible to a wide range of players. The unique action selection mechanism using the tortoiseshell and coins adds a fun and thematic element but can feel a bit complex and luck-based. As the game progresses, players must balance building temples and collecting goods to maximize their scoring opportunities. The game becomes more tense in the mid-game as players compete for influence through temples and goods.
Pros
Cons
Personal Thoughts on Yin Yang
Yin Yang is a great choice for those looking for an exotic game with an oriental theme. It is suitable for players who enjoy a mix of strategy and luck, and it shines with three or four players due to the increased competition. While it may not be the best fit for players who prefer games with minimal luck, it offers a unique and engaging experience that is well worth trying. If you can embrace the luck-based coin casting mechanism, Yin Yang can be an interesting and rewarding addition to your game collection.
We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.
