Kigi (2014) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Kigi is a board game released in 2014, designed by Daniel Solis and published by GameField. It falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy, Animals, Card Game, and Territory Building. The game is suitable for 2 to 5 players, with a runtime of around 20 minutes. Players must use their strategic skills to build the most beautiful tree in the forest by collecting branches, leaves, and fruits.

Game Components of Kigi

Trunk cards: Each player starts with a unique trunk card.

Branch cards: These cards feature various icons such as bugs, flowers, and other elements that contribute to scoring.

Scoring cards: Players collect these to satisfy specific conditions for end-game bonuses.

Player tokens: Used for tracking scores and other game elements.

How To Setup Kigi

To set up Kigi, each player receives a trunk card, which serves as the base of their tree. A display of three branch cards is placed in the center of the table. Players then take turns selecting branch cards to add to either their own tree or an opponent’s tree. Scoring cards are also drawn and kept by players to be used for end-game scoring.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Area Majority / Influence: Players compete to create the most valuable tree by adding branches strategically.

Set Collection: Collecting specific combinations of features on branch cards to satisfy scoring conditions.

Tile Placement: Branch cards are placed in a non-grid pattern, creating a unique tree structure each game.

Objective: The goal is to build a tree that meets the conditions on the scoring cards to earn the most points.

Player Experience

Playing Kigi feels more like tending a garden or growing a tree rather than painting, despite its initial concept. The game involves simple turns where players choose branch cards to add to their tree or an opponent’s, and possibly scoring points or collecting scoring cards. The organic growth of the trees and the timing of scoring bonuses add a dynamic and replayable element to the game.

Pros

Dynamic Gameplay: The non-grid tile placement and varying branch cards ensure each game is different.

Simple yet Strategic: Easy to learn but requires strategic thinking to maximize scores.

Visual Appeal: The game features beautiful, organic-looking tree structures.

Replayability: The random draw of branch and scoring cards ensures high replay value.

Cons

Interplayer Interaction: Some players may find the ability to play on opponents’ trees too competitive or disruptive.

Endgame State: In some cases, only a few players may have substantial foliage, while others have bare trees, which can be frustrating.

Scoring Complexity: Some scoring conditions on the scoring cards can be unclear or too complex.

Personal Thoughts on Kigi

Kigi is ideal for those who enjoy abstract strategy games with a touch of creativity and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great game for casual game nights or for players looking for something light yet engaging. However, players seeking intense competition or complex mechanics might find it too simplistic. Overall, Kigi offers a unique and visually appealing gaming experience that is both fun and challenging.

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