Latice (2015) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Latice is a board game that was released in 2015 by designer Brent Vincent. It falls under the category of Abstract Strategy games, which focus on strategic thinking and planning rather than luck or chance. The game has received positive reviews for its gameplay mechanics and accessibility to players of all ages.

Game Components of Latice

84 tiles, each featuring a unique combination of colors and symbols such as animals, flowers, and leaves.

Tile racks for each player.

Sunstones and half stones, which serve as tokens for extra actions.

Wind tiles that allow players to move tiles on the board.

A curved board with a tropical theme.

How To Setup Latice

To set up Latice, players start by shuffling the tiles and distributing them evenly among the players. In a two-player game, each player receives 42 tiles, while in games with more players, the distribution is adjusted accordingly. Each player places five tiles on their tile rack and the remaining tiles are set aside. The first player places a tile in the center of the board to initiate the game. Players then draw replacement tiles to keep five tiles on their rack throughout the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Be the first player to play out all your tiles.

Matching Mechanics: Tiles must be placed next to existing tiles, matching either by color or symbol.

Extra Turns: Matching two or more tiles earns half stones or sunstones, which can be redeemed for additional turns.

Wind Tiles: Allow players to move tiles already on the board and play again.

Sunstones and Half Stones: Sunstones are equivalent to two half stones and can be used immediately to take another turn.

Tile Placement: Players can only place one tile at a time, even if they have earned extra turns.

Player Experience

Latice offers a engaging and strategic experience that appeals to both casual and experienced gamers. The game’s tropical theme and simple yet deep mechanics make it easy to learn but hard to master. Players must think strategically about their tile placements to maximize their chances of earning extra turns and winning the game.

Pros

Broad Appeal: Suitable for players of all ages and skill levels.

Strategic Depth: Simple rules lead to complex and engaging strategies.

Family-Friendly: Ideal for family game nights, bridging the gap between young and older players.

Thematic: The tropical theme adds a pleasant and refreshing ambiance to the game.

Cons

Time Consumption: Games can sometimes drag on if players take too long to make their moves.

Tile Management: Managing tiles efficiently is crucial, which can be challenging, especially as the game progresses.

Luck Factor: The draw of tiles can introduce an element of luck, affecting gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Latice

Latice is perfect for those who enjoy abstract strategy games with a casual twist. It’s an excellent choice for families looking for a game that everyone can enjoy together, as well as for gamers seeking a challenging yet relaxed experience. The game’s ability to balance simplicity with strategic depth makes it a great addition to any game collection. If you’re a fan of games like Qwirkle or Scrabble, you’ll likely find Latice to be a delightful and engaging alternative.

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