Mastabas (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Mastabas is a unique card game designed by Siscu Bellido and published by GDM Games in in 2019. The game is set in ancient Egypt, where players take on the roles of architects competing to build the most magnificent mastabas, which are ancient Egyptian tombs. With its combination of Rock-Paper-Scissors mechanics and tile placement, Mastabas offers a fresh and engaging gameplay experience for 2-4 players.

Game Components of Mastabas

Number of players: 2-4

Playing time: 30-50 minutes

Age range: 8 and above

Components: Includes game board, player tokens, painting cards, deity cards, and various other game-specific elements.

How To Setup Mastabas

To set up Mastabas, players begin by preparing the game board, which represents the exploration of a newly discovered mastaba. Each player selects their tokens and receives a set of starting cards. The game includes a painting with three deities, which is central to the initial setup. Players arrange the cards and tokens according to the rules outlined in the game manual.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game category: Competitive

Mechanics: Exploration, card drafting, and strategic planning

Objective: Players aim to explore the mastaba, uncover its secrets, and accumulate the most points by fulfilling the requirements depicted on the painting and deity cards.

Player Experience

Mastabas offers an immersive experience where players take on the roles of archaeologists exploring an ancient Egyptian mastaba. The game combines elements of strategy and luck, as players must carefully manage their resources and make tactical decisions to succeed. The theme of discovery and the historical context add a layer of excitement and educational value.

Pros

Engaging theme: The game’s ancient Egyptian setting and exploration mechanics make it appealing to history enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Strategic depth: Players need to balance resource management and strategic planning, making each game challenging and rewarding.

Family-friendly: Suitable for players aged 8 and above, making it a great option for family game nights.

Cons

Complexity: The game may have a steep learning curve due to its multiple mechanics and objectives.

Luck factor: The random draw of cards can introduce an element of luck, which might not appeal to players preferring pure strategy.

Personal Thoughts on Mastabas

Mastabas is an excellent choice for those who enjoy exploration and strategy games with a historical twist. It is particularly suited for families or groups of friends looking for a game that combines educational elements with fun and competitive gameplay. However, players who prefer simple, quick games or those who dislike luck-based mechanics might find Mastabas less appealing.

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