Shikoku (2018) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Shikoku is a board game released in 2018 by designer Eloi Pujadas and published by GDM Games. The game is set in Japan’s smallest island, Shikoku, and players take on the role of pilgrims traveling to the island’s temples. With beautiful artwork by Amelia Sales, Shikoku offers players a unique and engaging gaming experience.

Game Components of Shikoku

Mantra cards: Guide players through their journey.

Player tokens: Represent each player’s progress.

Track or path components: Symbolize the journey to the temple Yakuōji.

Rulebook: Includes instructions and illustrations.

How To Setup Shikoku

To set up **Shikoku**, players need to prepare the track or path components, distribute the mantra cards, and place the player tokens at the starting point. The game setup is relatively straightforward, with the rulebook providing clear instructions and illustrations to help players get started quickly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Racing with a twist: The game is not about being the fastest but about moderation.

Mantra card usage: Players use mantra cards to guide their journey.

Avoiding calamity: The goal is to avoid calamity and achieve a pace that brings good fortune.

Winning conditions: The players in second and second-to-last place win, making strategy and timing crucial.

Player Experience

**Shikoku** offers a unique and engaging experience, focusing on strategy and moderation rather than raw speed. Players must carefully use their mantra cards to navigate the path, ensuring they avoid calamity and maintain a balanced pace. This game encourages thoughtful decision-making and interaction among players.

Pros

Unique twist on racing: Changes the typical racing game dynamic.

Encourages strategy: Players need to think carefully about their moves.

Social interaction: Promotes deliberation and discussion among players.

Quick gameplay: Games are relatively short, lasting about 30 minutes.

Cons

Unconventional winning conditions: May not appeal to players who enjoy traditional racing games.

Deliberation time: Games can be longer if players take a lot of time to decide.

Personal Thoughts on Shikoku

**Shikoku** is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a social element. It is perfect for those looking for a unique racing experience that emphasizes moderation and thoughtful decision-making. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a traditional racing game or those who prefer quick, action-packed gameplay. If you’re looking to mix up your game nights with something different and engaging, **Shikoku** is definitely worth considering.

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