Garden Guests (2023) Board Game

Garden Guests is an abstract strategy board game released in 2023 and designed by Kristena Derrick. The game is published by Van Ryder Games and is suitable for 2 to 6 players, with a playing time of 20 to 30 minutes. It is recommended for players aged 8 and above and features action/event, hexagon grid, pattern movement, and team-based gameplay mechanics.

Game Components of Garden Guests

Game Board: A hexagonal garden board featuring four types of flowers and mushrooms.

Player Pieces: Guests (stones) in different colors.

Cards: Flower cards showing one of the four flower types, and collection cards with numbers 1/4 and 2/3.

Pedestals: Spaces on the board where colonies can be built.

How To Setup Garden Guests

To set up the game, players are divided into teams, with each team sitting in front of a side of the board corresponding to their team’s color. Each team receives supplies in their color, including stones, guests, flower cards, and collection cards. Each player starts with a hand of 5 cards from their team’s flower deck. The collection cards are placed face up on the table according to the setup chart.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Draw Cards: Players can draw a number of cards determined by their collection cards.

Pass Cards: Players can pass cards to their teammates, which is the only form of communication allowed.

Build a Colony: Players build colonies by discarding cards that match the flower type on the pedestal space.

Lay a Path: Players connect colonies by discarding cards that match the flower types of the spaces in the path.

Game Objective

The goal is to connect the two home rows of your team with a continuous path across the garden board. The first team to achieve this wins the game.

Player Experience

Playing **Garden Guests** involves a mix of strategy and teamwork, especially in team modes. The game requires careful planning and communication through card passing, as direct communication is not allowed. The dynamic of trying to interpret what cards your teammate is passing can add a fun and challenging layer to the game. However, some players have noted that the game can become predictable if one team gains an early advantage, and the geometry of the board can sometimes make it difficult for opponents to catch up.

Pros

Beautiful Art Style: The game features unique and visually appealing paper cut art.

Teamwork and Strategy: The card-passing mechanism allows for subtle communication and teamwork.

Simple to Explain: The rules are straightforward and can be explained quickly.

Dynamic Gameplay: Each game develops differently based on the cards drawn and the strategies employed.

Cons

Predictable Outcomes: If one team gains an early advantage, it can be difficult for others to catch up.

Luck Factor: The availability of certain cards can significantly impact gameplay.

Limited Fun in Solo or 2-Player Modes: The game is more engaging with multiple teams and players.

Personal Thoughts on Garden Guests

**Garden Guests** is ideal for fans of abstract strategy and cooperative games, particularly those who enjoy route-building and limited communication mechanics. The game’s unique art style and simple yet engaging gameplay make it appealing, but it may not be the best fit for players seeking high levels of complexity or those who prefer games with more direct interaction. For those who enjoy strategic planning and subtle teamwork, **Garden Guests** can offer a fun and challenging experience, especially in team modes with 3 or 6 players.

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