Hórreos (2021) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Hórreos is a card game released in 2021 by designer Siscu Bellido and published by Button Shy. The game is set in the rural landscape of Galicia, Spain, where players take on the role of farmers competing to build the most successful hórreos, traditional granaries found in the region.

Game Components of Hórreos

Hórreo cards: These cards are used to build the granaries and come with various features like crosses, pikes, doors, and pillars.

Action cards: Each player has two Action cards, each with two possible actions (Sabotage or Plan, Steal or Build).

Market deck: A deck of Hórreo cards placed between the players.

Leader card: Determines which player resolves their action first in case of a tie.

Player supplies: Tableaus where players store their Hórreo cards.

How To Setup Hórreos

To set up the game, each player receives two Action cards. The Hórreo cards are shuffled, and the deck is placed between the players. The top card is placed beside the deck to form a 2-card Market. The Leader card is placed beside the Market, facing the starting player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Simultaneous Action Selection: Players secretly choose an action (Sabotage, Plan, Steal, or Build) and reveal them simultaneously.

Action Resolution: Actions are resolved in a set order (Sabotage, Plan, Steal, Build).

Sabotage: Forces the opponent to perform the other action on their card.

Plan: Allows a player to select a card from the Market for their supply.

Steal: Enables a player to take a card from their opponent’s supply.

Build: Allows a player to move a card from their supply to their hórreo.

Game Objective: Build the longest, most ornate hórreo while preventing mice from entering. Points are scored for pairs of crosses and pikes, doors, and pillars. The longest hórreo earns extra points, while rats reduce points and owls cancel out rats.

Player Experience

Hórreos is a game that surprises with its depth despite its simple mechanics. Players must think strategically, considering both their own actions and their opponent’s potential moves. The simultaneous action selection and resolution order add a layer of complexity, making it essential to plan ahead while adapting to the opponent’s actions.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Despite simple rules, the game requires long-term strategy.

Interactive: Players constantly interact with each other’s actions.

Quick Playtime: The game lasts only about 20 minutes.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 8 and above.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed for only two players.

Card Dependency: Success can be heavily influenced by the cards drawn.

Strategy vs. Luck: Some players may find the balance between strategy and luck to be uneven.

Personal Thoughts on Hórreos

Hórreos is an excellent choice for those who enjoy strategic, competitive games that are quick to play. It’s ideal for couples or friends looking for a game that requires thoughtful planning and adaptability. The game’s unique mechanics and historical context add a layer of interest that sets it apart from other card games. While it may not be the best fit for large groups or those seeking a cooperative experience, Hórreos is a gem for anyone looking to engage in a clever and engaging two-player contest.

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