Apiary (2023) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Apiary is a board game released in 2023 by Stonemaier Games, designed by Connie Vogelmann and illustrated by Kwanchai Moriya. The game is set in a world where players take on the role of beekeepers managing their own apiaries. With a mix of science fiction elements and animal themes, Apiary offers a unique gameplay experience for 1-5 players.

Game Components of Apiary

1 double-sided game board (for 1-3 players and 4-5 players)

5 asymmetric hive mats and 20 asymmetric faction tiles

59 cards (45 seed cards and 14 Automa cards)

1 insert for card storage and 1 easy-setup resource tray

Worker bee meeples and various tokens (including hibernation tokens and resources).

How To Setup Apiary

To set up Apiary, start by laying out the board based on the player count, with one side for 1-3 players and the other for 4-5 players. Each player receives a unique hive mat and faction tile, which can be randomly assigned or drafted in a snake draft. Place the planet tiles face-down and add explore tokens to the explore spaces on the board. Set up the Queenship mini and place player tokens on the score track and Queen’s favor track. Finally, distribute the initial resources and prepare the hibernation spaces.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Worker Placement: Players place their worker bees on action spaces on the board, which can be bumped by other players’ bees.

Resource Management: Gather resources, develop technologies, and create carvings.

Hive Building: Build and expand your hive mat by placing tiles and fulfilling conditions on Carve tiles.

Exploration: Explore planets and use the Queen Bee spaceship.

Objective: The goal is to score the most points by collecting seed cards, filling the hive mat, and achieving end-game scoring conditions.

Player Experience

Apiary offers a satisfying and engaging experience with a unique twist on worker placement. Players never get completely blocked from actions, as they can always bump other bees off spaces or regroup for resources. The game scales well and includes an exceptional solo mode. The tempo of the game is dynamic, with players moving at their own pace and rhythm, creating an immersive and interactive environment.

Pros

Great Table Presence: The game looks appealing on the table.

Easy to Teach: Simple to learn and play.

Unique Theme: A quirky theme combining bees and space exploration.

Fun Player Interaction: Engaging and rewarding decisions.

Scales Well: Works well with different player counts.

Exceptional Solo Mode: A strong single-player experience.

Cons

Complex Strategy: Requires careful planning and strategy, which can be challenging for new players.

Potential for Analysis Paralysis: Contemplative players might slow down the game.

Personal Thoughts on Apiary

Apiary is ideal for fans of worker-placement games who are looking for a fresh and engaging experience. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy strategic planning and resource management without the frustration of being completely blocked by other players. The game’s unique theme and dynamic gameplay make it a standout in the genre, appealing to both experienced gamers and newcomers to worker placement games.

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