Ancestree (2017) Board Game
Ancestree is a board game released in 2017 as part of the Titans of Gaming series by Calliope Games. It was designed by Larry Elmore and Adelheid Zimmerman, featuring artwork by Calliope Games and Flick Game Studio. The game falls under the category of Closed Drafting Tile Placement, suitable for 2-6 players aged 8 and above.
Game Components of Ancestree
How To Setup Ancestree
To set up Ancestree, each player begins with a hand of six Ancestor tiles. Players choose one tile to add to their family tree and then pass the remaining tiles to the next player. This process continues until each player has added five ancestor tiles to their tree, marking the end of a round. For a two-player game, it is recommended to deal three hands and randomly play a tile for the third player to avoid predictability.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Player Experience
Ancestree offers a balanced blend of strategy and simplicity, making it an enjoyable filler game. Players must carefully choose their ancestors to maximize points from heritage, wealth, and marriages. The game moves quickly, with simultaneous gameplay keeping everyone engaged. However, it lacks the intensity of more complex games, making it ideal for a light, fun experience with family and friends.
Pros
Cons
Personal Thoughts on Ancestree
Ancestree is perfect for those looking for a light, family-friendly game that balances strategy and fun. It’s an excellent introduction to more complex tile-laying and drafting games, such as *Troyes* or *Five Tribes*. The game’s quick playtime and easy-to-learn mechanics make it a great choice for casual game nights or as a filler game between more intense gaming sessions.
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