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Cryptid (2018) Board Game

ByMichail

Cryptid is a deduction board game that was released in 2018 by Osprey Games. Designed by Hal Duncan and Ruth Veevers, Cryptid has received positive reviews for its unique gameplay and challenging mechanics. The game revolves around players searching for a hidden creature in the wilderness, using clues to narrow down its location.

Game Components of Cryptid

  • Modular board composed of terrain tiles (forest, desert, ocean, etc.)
  • Structures (camps and standing stones)
  • Animal territories
  • Clue books for each player
  • Cubes and discs in various player colors
  • Setup cards for different difficulty levels
  • Optional: Free companion app for setup and clue distribution

    How To Setup Cryptid

    Setup involves selecting a random card that depicts the board layout and structure placements. Each player receives a clue book and a corresponding clue number from the card. Players place two cubes on the board in locations where the cryptid cannot be, according to their clue. The app can also be used for a streamlined setup process.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Objective:** Be the first player to correctly identify the location of the hidden cryptid.
  • Turn Actions:**
  • Question:** Ask another player if the cryptid could be at a specific location. The asked player responds with a yes or no, placing a disc (yes) or cube (no) on that space.
  • Search:** Place a disc on a space where you think the cryptid might be. Other players then verify or invalidate this claim by placing discs or cubes.
  • Clue System:** Each player’s clue overlaps with others to pinpoint the cryptid’s location.
  • Advanced Mode:** Includes negative clues and doubles the clue space for increased complexity.

    Player Experience

    Cryptid offers a thrilling logical deduction experience where players must use their wits to piece together the clues. The gameplay is engaging and tense, with each turn providing more information to narrow down the cryptid’s possible locations. The game is easy to teach and can be enjoyed by both new and experienced gamers.

    Pros

  • High Replayability:** Multiple setups included, making it unlikely for players to remember previous configurations.
  • Simple yet Engaging Mechanics:** Easy to understand but challenging to master.
  • Compact and Aesthetic Design:** Lovely art and a relatively compact box.
  • Advanced Mode:** Adds complexity for experienced players.
  • Companion App:** Streamlines setup and clue distribution.

    Cons

  • Analytical:** Can be off-putting for players who prefer less analytical games.
  • Initial Setup:** While not complex, it requires careful attention to ensure correct placement of structures and clues.
  • Misdirection:** Players must navigate the potential for misdirection from other players’ clues.

    Personal Thoughts on Cryptid

    Cryptid is ideal for those who enjoy logical puzzles and deduction games. It is a great choice for players who appreciate a simple yet challenging game mechanic. The game’s ability to scale in difficulty with the advanced mode makes it suitable for both casual and experienced gamers. However, it may not appeal to those who prefer more action-oriented or luck-based games. Overall, Cryptid is a cleverly designed game that offers a unique and engaging gaming experience.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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