Iwari (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Iwari is a board game designed by Matthew Mizak and released in in 2020. It is a game that combines elements of abstract strategy and fantasy, where players compete to control different regions and build sacred sites in the mythical land of Iwari.

Game Components of Iwari

Game board

Sacred site tokens

Region tiles

VP markers

Tribe markers

Action cards

How To Setup Iwari

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Shuffle the region tiles and place them face down on the designated spaces on the board.

Each player chooses a color and takes the corresponding tribe markers and VP markers.

Shuffle the action cards and deal a hand to each player.

Place the sacred site tokens within reach of all players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Iwari, players take turns placing tribe markers on the board to control regions and build sacred sites. By playing action cards strategically, players can influence the game in their favor. The objective of the game is to earn the most victory points by controlling regions, building sacred sites, and completing objectives.

Player Experience

Pros

Strategic depth with different ways to earn victory points.

Beautiful artwork and components.

Replayability with variable setup and objectives.

Cons

Can be overwhelming for new players.

Some may find the game pacing slow.

Limited player interaction.

Personal Thoughts on Iwari

Iwari is a visually stunning game with interesting gameplay mechanics that offer a unique experience. The build quality of the components is top-notch, and the game falls under the category of abstract strategy with a fantasy theme. While the pricing may be on the higher side, the game is worth the investment for those who enjoy strategic and immersive gameplay experiences. I would recommend Iwari to players who enjoy games like Terra Mystica or Spirit Island. However, those who prefer more direct player interaction may find Iwari lacking in that aspect. Overall, I believe Iwari is worth your time if you enjoy challenging and thoughtful board games.

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