Han (2014) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Han is a board game released in 2014 that takes place in ancient China during the Han Dynasty. Designed by Michael Schacht, the game focuses on territory building and strategic gameplay. Players take on the role of powerful Chinese families looking to expand their influence and control over the land.

Game Components of Han

Two-sided board: One side features a map of China, and the other side depicts an ancient Chinese city.

150 houses: Including ordinary houses and houses of political influence.

60 cards: Used for determining where players can place houses.

Rules and documentation: Simple and clear, with no necessary in-game text.

How To Setup Han

Setting up Han involves placing the two-sided board, shuffling the deck of cards, and distributing a starting hand of three cards to each player. The game includes specific setup rules for the different maps on the board, especially the China map with its special border houses and harbors.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Area Majority / Influence: Players compete to have the most houses in each province.

Hand Management: Players manage their cards to determine where they can place houses.

Network and Route Building: Continuous paths of houses are scored.

Open Drafting: Players pick up new cards from a public offer.

Objective: To gain control over provinces and accumulate the most points by placing houses strategically.

Player Experience

Han offers a fast-paced and tactically rich experience. Players have short turns, quickly placing houses and picking up new cards. The game encourages strategic thinking about both current and future moves. The scoring system creates friction among players, as every house counts, and provinces are evaluated based on majority presence.

Pros

Simple rules and concept: Easy to learn but with high strategic depth.

Short playing time: Games typically last about 45 minutes.

Variability and replayability: Multiple maps and dynamic card draws ensure different experiences each time.

Engaging gameplay: Fast turns and tactical decisions keep players engaged.

Cons

Limited availability: Initially released in German with limited English editions.

No guaranteed moves: Players must adapt as the game progresses, which can be frustrating.

Personal Thoughts on Han

Han is ideal for players who enjoy tactical, area-control games with simple rules but deep strategic play. It is suitable for 2-5 players, making it a versatile addition to any game collection. The game’s quick turns and high replayability make it appealing for those who like to play multiple rounds in a single session. However, it may not be the best choice for players seeking games with complex rules or those who prefer longer, more immersive experiences.

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