Haiclue (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Haiclue is a board game released in 2019, designed by Martyna Alexander and published by Tiger Board Games. It falls under the categories of Deduction, Party Game, and Word Game, making it a versatile choice for game nights with friends and family. With a playing time of around 30 minutes and suitable for players aged 14 and above, Haiclue offers a fun and engaging gaming experience for a wide audience.

Game Components of Haiclue

216 double-sided word tiles

Secret word cards

Voting tokens

Four stacks of secret word tiles

Player sets of voting tokens

How To Setup Haiclue

To set up Haiclue, each player receives 15 random word tiles, which they arrange in front of them with the white side face up. Twelve additional tiles are used for the secret words, divided into four stacks of three, also with the white side up. Each player gets a secret word card with a symbol indicating their word for the round. Voting tokens are distributed, with one set for each player and one in front of each stack of secret words.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Word Association: Players create clues using their word tiles to represent one of the four secret words.

Password Mechanics: Players guess which word each clue corresponds to.

Objective: Score points by correctly guessing the secret words and by creating clues that others guess correctly.

Game Phases:
– Create a clue using 15 random word tiles.
– Guess the secret words based on the clues.
– Tally the score; correct guesses earn points for both the guesser and the clue creator.
– Repeat the process for 6 rounds, with tiles flipped and passed to the next player after each round.

Player Experience

Haiclue is praised for its simplicity in learning but depth in gameplay. New players can quickly join in, while experienced players are challenged to think creatively. The game is highly social, making it perfect for couples, families, or larger groups of adults. Each game is unique due to the random distribution of word tiles, ensuring a fresh experience every time.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.

Deep Gameplay: Challenges players to think creatively and logically.

Social: Great for couples, families, and larger groups.

Unique Each Time: Random word tiles ensure every game is different.

Improves Vocabulary: Helps in improving vocabulary and language skills.

Cons

Scorekeeping Hassle: Using voting tokens can be cumbersome.

Tile Management: Flipping and passing tiles each round can be a hassle.

Balance Issue: The game favors the clue giver over the guesser.

Personal Thoughts on Haiclue

Haiclue is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys creative and word-based games. It is particularly suited for families with older children (10+ years), as it enhances vocabulary and language skills in a fun and interactive way. The cooperative mode for two players makes it a great option for couples, while the competitive mode is ideal for larger groups looking for a engaging party game. Despite some minor drawbacks in scorekeeping and tile management, Haiclue offers a delightful and challenging experience that combines logic and creativity.

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