Nomids (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Nomids is a board game released in 2020, designed by Andrew Looney and Eileen Tjan. It falls under the category of Abstract Strategy and Dice games, with a focus on Dice Rolling and Set Collection as its main gameplay mechanisms. The game is suitable for players aged 6 and above, and can accommodate 2 to 10 players, with the best experience for 3 players.

Game Components of Nomids

30 pyramids (10 colors, each with three different sizes: small, medium, and large)

A six-sided Lightning die

Rules booklet (including overviews of other games that can be played with these components)

How To Setup Nomids

To set up Nomids, each player selects three pyramids, one of each size, in different colors. The remaining pyramids are placed to the side, forming the Bank. Players ensure the Bank is within easy reach of all participants.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Be the first player to get rid of all your pyramids.

Rolling the Die: Players roll the Lightning die to determine their actions:

Lightning Bolt: Return any of your pyramids to the Bank.

Split Circle: Add any pyramid from the Bank to your collection.

Two Pyramids: Give any pyramid from the Bank to another player.

Singular Arrow: Move any pyramid from one player to another player.

Circular Arrows: Swap any two pyramids belonging to any two players.

Explosion: Choose any of the above actions or take a different action if there are no remaining pyramids in the Bank.

Monochrome Liquidation: If a player has all three pyramids of a single color, they can return all three to the Bank at the end of their turn.

Player Experience

Nomids is a quick, easy-to-learn game that makes for a good family or party game. Games typically last between 5 to 10 minutes with 2-4 players, although it can be played with up to 10 players. The game’s simplicity and reliance on the die roll introduce an element of luck, but the Monochrome Liquidation rule adds a strategic layer, encouraging players to collect sets of the same color to disposed of them efficiently. However, with more players, the game can drag on, as there is little to do between turns other than watch others roll the die.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to all ages.

Portable: The game is travel-friendly due to its compact size.

Flexible Player Count: Can be played with 2-10 players.

Additional Games: The components can be used to play other games like Pharaoh, Pyramid-Sham-Bo, and Treehouse.

Strategic Element: The Monochrome Liquidation rule adds a layer of strategy.

Cons

Luck-Based: The game heavily relies on the roll of the die, which may not appeal to players who prefer more strategic games.

Longer with More Players: Games can become prolonged with a larger number of players.

Personal Thoughts on Nomids

Nomids is ideal for families, casual gamers, and those looking for a quick filler game. It introduces the Looney Pyramids system in a straightforward and engaging way, although it may not fully utilize the unique aspects of the pyramids as some players might hope. For those who enjoy light, fun games with a touch of strategy, Nomids is a great addition to their game collection. However, for players seeking more complex or deeply strategic experiences, Nomids might fall short.

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