Golems (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Golems is a card game designed by Sergio Chaves and released in in 2020. It is a game that caters to 1-2 players and has a runtime of approximately 20 minutes. The game falls under the category of card games and incorporates mechanics such as open drafting and set collection. The artwork for Golems is done by ThunderGryph Games, adding to the visual appeal of the game.

Game Components of Golems

52 beautifully illustrated cards representing resources, golems, runes, and gems.

13 plastic gem tokens.

Each card serves at least two functions: as resources or as golems, runes, or gems with additional benefits.

How To Setup Golems

To set up *Golems*, you first create a 3×3 grid of cards. Each player starts with a few gems, which serve as the game’s currency. In solo mode, the game simulates an opponent by dividing the cards after each turn. For two-player games, you can add a mini-expansion for extra variety.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Key Mechanics

Card Drafting: Players draw cards from a 3×3 grid, paying gems for the cards they choose.

Resource Management: Cards can represent resources, golems, runes, or gems.

Closed Economy: Gems are redistributed among players if the supply runs out.

Golem Summoning: Players summon golems by collecting and stacking the required resource cards.

Game Objective

Summon golems by collecting the necessary resource cards.

Earn points from summoned golems, runes, and collected gems.

In solo mode, compete against a simulated opponent by managing resources efficiently.

Player Experience

*Golems* is praised for its addictive nature, especially in solo mode. The game is quick to set up and play, usually lasting around 10 minutes. The tactile experience of using plastic gem tokens and the beautiful illustrations on the cards enhance the gameplay. However, the solo mode can be challenging, with the opponent often scoring higher points.

Pros

Quick Setup and Playtime: The game is quick to set up and can be played within 10 minutes.

Addictive Solo Mode: Despite the challenge, the solo mode is highly engaging.

Beautiful Components: The cards and gem tokens are visually appealing and tactile.

Strategic Depth: The game requires strategic thinking about which cards to choose and when.

Cons

Limited Player Interaction: In solo mode, interaction is limited to the simulated opponent.

Steep Learning Curve for Optimizing: Players need to optimize their card choices and gem management to win.

Luck Factor: The random assignment of golem colors and rune benefits can introduce an element of luck.

Personal Thoughts on Golems

*Golems* is ideal for players looking for a light, yet engaging strategy game that can be played quickly. It is particularly suited for solo players who enjoy challenging themselves against a simulated opponent. While it may not offer deep player interaction, the game’s mechanics and beautiful components make it a satisfying experience. If you’re a fan of resource management and card drafting, *Golems* is definitely worth checking out.

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