Oh, Pharaoh! (2004) Board Game

Oh, Pharaoh! is a board game released in 2004 by 999 Games. Designed by Thilo Hutzler and illustrated by Michael Menzel, this game is set in ancient Egypt and revolves around pattern building, take-that mechanics, and trading. With a runtime of 40 minutes, Oh, Pharaoh! is suitable for 2 to 4 players, with the best player count being 2 to

The game is recommended for ages 10 and up and falls under the category of an ancient-themed card game.

Game Components of Oh, Pharaoh!

Rulebook

Market board

Pharaoh figurine

Set of artifact cards

Set of market cards

Set of player cards

Scarab tokens

How To Setup Oh, Pharaoh!

Place the market board in the center of the play area.

Shuffle the artifact and market cards separately and place them face down on their designated spots on the market board.

Each player receives a set of player cards and a scarab token.

Determine a starting player and give them the Pharaoh figurine.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Oh, Pharaoh!, players take turns performing actions such as collecting artifacts, trading with the market, and using special abilities on their player cards. The objective of the game is to collect sets of matching artifacts to earn points and outmaneuver your opponents.

Player Experience

Pros:

Engaging gameplay that involves strategy and player interaction.

Beautiful artwork and theme that immerse players in the world of ancient Egypt.

The game can be played relatively quickly, making it suitable for casual gaming sessions.

Cons:

Limited replay value as the gameplay can become repetitive after multiple plays.

Some players may find the take-that mechanics frustrating, especially if they are targeted frequently.

Personal Thoughts on Oh, Pharaoh!

Oh, Pharaoh! is a fun and light card game that is perfect for players who enjoy games with a mix of strategy and luck. The game’s components are well-made, and the artwork adds to the overall enjoyment of the game. While it may not be a groundbreaking game, it is definitely worth checking out for fans of ancient-themed games or those looking for a quick and easy game to play with friends or family.

In terms of pricing and availability, Oh, Pharaoh! can be found online and in some board game stores. While the game may not be as widely available as some more popular titles, it is still worth seeking out if you enjoy the mechanics and theme of the game. Alternatives to Oh, Pharaoh! include similar card games with trading and pattern-building mechanics, such as Splendor or Century: Spice Road.

Overall, if you are a fan of ancient Egypt or enjoy card games with unique gameplay mechanics, Oh, Pharaoh! is definitely worth your time. However, if you are not a fan of take-that mechanics or are looking for a more complex gaming experience, this game may not be for you.

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