Cherokee (2011) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Cherokee is a board game released in 2011, designed by Loïc Billiau and published by White Goblin Games. The game is set in the American West and focuses on hand management mechanics and fighting elements. It is designed for 2-4 players, with a playing time of around 30 minutes and is suitable for ages 10 and up.

Game Components of Cherokee

Cards: Representing various actions, influence, and characters within the Cherokee tribe.

Player Tokens: For tracking influence and positions.

Scoreboard: To keep track of the players’ progress and influence.

How To Setup Cherokee

To set up Cherokee, players start by shuffling the deck and dealing a set number of cards to each player. The remaining cards are placed face down in a draw pile. Players then choose their starting tokens and place them on the scoreboard. Each player begins with a set amount of influence, and the objective is to accumulate more influence by strategically playing cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Play: Players take turns playing cards to gain influence, sway other players, or disrupt opponents’ plans.

Area Influence: Players aim to place their tokens in various areas of influence, such as the council or different clans.

Objective: The goal is to have the most influence when the game ends, thereby becoming the new leader of the Cherokee tribe.

Player Experience

Cherokee offers a dynamic and strategic gameplay experience where players must balance short-term goals with long-term strategies. The game requires careful planning and adaptability, as the actions of other players can significantly impact one’s own chances of winning. The theme of tribal politics adds a unique layer of depth, making the game engaging for those interested in strategic card games.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game offers complex strategies and multiple paths to victory.

Thematic Engagement: The Native American theme adds a historical and cultural layer to the gameplay.

Interactive: Players must continually adapt to the actions of others.

Cons

Learning Curve: The game mechanics and card interactions can be complex, making it challenging for new players.

Luck of the Draw: The random draw of cards can sometimes feel unfair or unbalanced.

Limited Player Count: The game is designed for a specific number of players, which might limit its versatility.

Personal Thoughts on Cherokee

Cherokee is an excellent choice for players who enjoy strategic card games and are interested in unique themes. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate games with deep mechanics and high replayability. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those who prefer simpler, more straightforward gameplay. For fans of games like “El Grande” or “San Juan,” Cherokee offers a similar blend of strategy and area influence, making it a worthwhile addition to any board game collection.

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