Kites (2022) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Kites is a real-time cooperative game designed by Kevin Hamano and published by Floodgate Games in in 2022. It is a fun and engaging game that is suitable for players aged 10 and up, with a playtime of around 10 minutes. The game features colorful artwork by Beth Sobel and can be played by 2 to 6 players, with the best experience being for 4 to 6 players.

Game Components of Kites

Six sand timers: Each with a different amount of sand and representing different colored kites.

Deck of kite cards: Used by players to keep the kites aloft.

Special cards: Including Storms, Crossed-Lines, and Airplanes, which introduce additional challenges and interactions.

How To Setup Kites

To set up the game, place the six sand timers on their sides within reach of all players, ensuring the sand is at the bottom. Shuffle the deck of kite cards and deal a number of cards to each player based on the player count. The remaining cards are placed within easy access. Choose a starting player and stand the white sand timer up as everyone picks up their cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative gameplay: Players work together to keep all kites in the air.

Real-time mechanism: Players take turns quickly, as the game is timed by the sand timers.

Card play: Players reveal a card from their hand, standing up the corresponding sand timer if it matches.

Sand timers: Each timer has a different duration (30 seconds to 90 seconds), and if any timer runs out of sand, the game ends immediately.

Special cards: Storms force all sand timers to be turned over, Crossed-Lines require card trades between players, and Airplanes introduce additional challenges.

Player Experience

Playing **Kites** is a fast-paced and adrenaline-filled experience. With two players, the game is intense and rapid, while with four players, it can become more chaotic as players struggle to react quickly enough. With six players, the game becomes highly cooperative, with players communicating effectively to manage the timers.

Pros

Easy to teach and quick to play: The game is dynamically approachable and can be explained in a couple of minutes.

Highly cooperative: Encourages teamwork and communication.

Family-friendly: Suitable for a wide range of ages and player counts.

Fast-paced and exciting: Creates a thrilling experience, especially with larger player counts.

Cons

Analysis paralysis: Some players may experience stress and flustered decision-making due to the real-time nature.

Not for everyone: The use of sand timers can be a turn-off for those who prefer more strategic or less time-pressured games.

Personal Thoughts on Kites

**Kites** is ideal for those who enjoy cooperative, fast-paced games that are easy to learn but challenging to master. It is particularly suited for families and groups looking for a quick, exciting game that promotes teamwork. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer more strategic or relaxed gaming experiences. Overall, it’s a great addition to any game collection for those who enjoy dynamic, real-time gameplay.

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