IKAN (2017) Board Game – Board Game Guys

IKAN is a board game released in 2017, designed by Cam Kendell and Krzysztof Roslan. The game falls under the adventure and maze categories, with a cooperative gameplay style that involves memory and a modular board. The game is designed for 2-4 players, with the best experience recommended for 2-3 players. With a runtime of 30 minutes and an age recommendation of 8+, IKAN offers a fun and engaging experience for players looking for a challenge.

Game Components of IKAN

Characters: Players can choose from different characters such as the Master of Shadows, Ikan, the Skeleton, or Yaga the Jaguar.

Modular Board: The game features a labyrinthine board that changes with each play.

Life Tokens: Characters have life tokens, with the Master of Shadows having 20 pounds of life.

Direction Indicators: Includes indicators for directions like north, south, east, and west.

Items and Obstacles: Various items and obstacles are part of the game components.

How To Setup IKAN

To set up IKAN, players first construct the modular board by connecting the labyrinth tiles. Each player chooses a character and places their corresponding token on the board. The Master of Shadows is placed separately, as this character has unique roles and interactions. The game components, including life tokens and direction indicators, are distributed accordingly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Gameplay: Players work together to navigate the labyrinth.

Memory Mechanic: Players must remember the layout of the labyrinth and their characters’ positions.

Modular Board: The board changes with each play, adding variety to the game.

Objective: The main goal is to find and retrieve the golden idol while avoiding the Master of Shadows, who tries to mislead the players.

Direction Giving: The Master of Shadows gives directions, which players must follow to navigate the labyrinth.

Player Experience

Playing IKAN is an immersive experience that challenges players’ memory and directional skills. The game requires teamwork and communication, as players need to rely on each other to navigate the ever-changing labyrinth. The Master of Shadows adds a layer of complexity, as players must interpret and follow the given directions accurately to succeed.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: Combines cooperative gameplay with memory and modular board mechanics.

High Replayability: The changing labyrinth ensures a different experience each time.

Interactive: Encourages teamwork and communication among players.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be confusing, especially with the Master of Shadows’ direction-giving mechanic.

Learning Curve: Requires time to get accustomed to the unique rules and mechanics.

User Rating: Has a lower user rating on Board Game Geek, indicating some players may find it less enjoyable.

Personal Thoughts on IKAN

IKAN is for players who enjoy cooperative games and are looking for a challenge that involves memory and strategy. It is ideal for those who appreciate modular board games and are willing to invest time in learning the unique mechanics. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a simple or straightforward gaming experience. If you’re looking for a game that offers a mix of adventure, memory, and teamwork, IKAN could be an intriguing addition to your game collection.

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