Kimaloé (2008) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Kimaloé is a board game released in 2008 and designed by Denis Kormann. The game is set in Jamaica and falls under the categories of Area Majority, Influence, Hand Management, and Roll/Spin and Move mechanisms. With a playtime of 30-45 minutes, it is suitable for 3-4 players aged 8 and above.

Game Components of Kimaloé

1 hexagonal board

17 rectangular boards

9 “special” cards

108 “right” cards

4 trucks

4 cubes

8 counters

1 special die.

How To Setup Kimaloé

Setting up Kimaloé involves arranging the hexagonal board and the rectangular boards, shuffling and distributing the “special” and “right” cards, and placing the trucks, cubes, and counters according to the game’s instructions. Each player will manage two scoring pawns, which adds a unique twist to the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Majority voting and scoring management.

Objective: Players must manage two scoring pawns effectively to achieve the highest score. The game includes a unique scoring system where players have to balance their pawns strategically.

Gameplay: Players use “right” cards to influence voting outcomes and special cards to add twists to the game. The special die also plays a crucial role in determining game actions.

Player Experience

Kimaloé offers a fun and engaging experience, particularly for families and casual gamers. The game’s relatively short playing time and simple rules make it accessible to a wide range of players. The twist in the scoring system with two pawns per player adds a layer of strategy, making it more than just a simple majority game.

Pros

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 8 and above.

Quick Gameplay: Games typically last between 30-45 minutes.

Strategic Depth: Managing two scoring pawns adds complexity and strategy.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it easy for new players to join in.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed for 3-4 players only.

Luck Element: The special die and card draws can introduce randomness that some players might find frustrating.

Personal Thoughts on Kimaloé

Kimaloé is an excellent choice for families or casual game groups looking for a light, strategic game. It’s perfect for those who enjoy majority voting mechanics but want something with a bit more depth. However, it may not be the best fit for large groups or players seeking highly complex gameplay. Overall, it’s a great addition to any board game collection for its simplicity, strategy, and family-friendly nature.

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