Bites (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Bites is a board game released in 2020 by BoardGameTables.com, designed by Brigitte Ditt and Wolfgang Ditt. The game falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy and Animals, featuring gameplay mechanisms such as Commodity Speculation, End Game Bonuses, Map Reduction, Modular Board, and Set Collection. With a runtime of 20 minutes and suitable for 2 to 5 players aged 12 and above, Bites offers a unique gaming experience.

Game Components of Bites

50 food tokens of five different varieties (Grapes, Apples, Bread, Cheese, & Peppers)

5 chocolate tokens

5 wine tokens

5 wooden ant meeples (each in a different color)

1 five-level cardboard anthill

Four decks of rule cards (Ant Hill, Wine, Chocolate, and Variant)

Double-layer, 3D food tokens with a unique cut design.

How To Setup Bites

To set up the game, you construct the five-level anthill and place it at one end of the playing area. Next, mix up the food tokens, leaving out one of each type, and arrange them in a line. The remaining food tokens are randomly placed in a weaving pattern to fit the available space. The five ants are placed at the other end of the line, each matching the color of the food tokens. Finally, draw one card from each of the four decks to determine the specific rules for the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Collect the most valuable food tokens by strategically moving ants along the food trail.

Player Turn: Move any ant to the next matching food token, then collect one food token directly in front of or behind the ant.

Rule Cards:

Ant Hill: Determines how ants are placed on the anthill and the point value of food tokens.

Wine: Varies how wine tokens score.

Chocolate: Provides special powers for chocolate tokens.

Variant: Introduces additional rules or pieces to the game.

Shared Incentives: Players work together and against each other to advance ants and hold others back based on the rule cards and food token values.

Player Experience

**Bites** is known for its simplicity and high replayability. The game is easy to learn, with a setup time and playtime of around 20 minutes. However, the simplicity can also be a drawback, as some players find the game lacking in depth. The game’s components, such as the 3D food tokens and wooden ants, add a tactile and visually appealing element. Players need to stay engaged and adapt their strategies based on the rule cards and the actions of other players.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules that take less than five minutes to understand.

High Replayability: Variable rule cards ensure each game is different.

Tactile Components: Beautifully designed 3D food tokens and wooden ants.

Shared Incentives: Encourages strategic thinking and interaction among players.

Quick Playtime: Games last approximately 20 minutes.

Cons

Lack of Depth: Some players find the game too simple and lacking in strategic complexity.

Shallow Choices: Decisions can feel arbitrary, especially without the additional complexity of the Double Bites expansion.

Overproduced: Some players feel the game is overproduced, which could be seen as a negative for those preferring more minimalist designs.

Personal Thoughts on Bites

**Bites** is ideal for players looking for a light, family-friendly game that offers a unique blend of strategy and luck. It’s a great option for younger players due to its simplicity and short playtime. However, for experienced gamers seeking more depth and complexity, **Bites** might not be the best fit. The game’s strength lies in its replayability and the dynamic nature introduced by the variable rule cards, making it a good addition to a game collection for those who enjoy casual, interactive games.

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