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Oros (2023) Board Game

ByMichail

Oros is a board game that takes players back to prehistoric times, where they must build and develop their own tribes in order to survive and thrive. Designed by Brandt Brinkerhoff and published by Aesc Games, this abstract strategy game incorporates elements of mythology and puzzle-solving to create a unique gaming experience.

Game Components of Oros

  • Game board representing a globe
  • Land tiles of various sizes (1-4)
  • Volcano tiles
  • Player boards and follower tokens
  • Sacred site pieces (Monolith, Shine, Temple)
  • Automa decks for solo and two-player games
  • Score pad and markers
  • Demigod pawn for the ziggurat scoring track

    How To Setup Oros

    To set up Oros, begin by laying out the game board, which is a flat representation of a globe. Place the land tiles, volcano tiles, and other components according to the initial setup instructions. Each player chooses a player board and places their follower tokens on it. The Automa decks are included for solo or two-player games, ensuring a dynamic experience regardless of the player count. Setup is relatively quick, taking less time than explaining the rules.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

    Mechanics:

  • Tile Placement:** Players manipulate land tiles to form mountains and volcanoes.
  • Action Selection:** Players move followers on their player boards to activate different actions.
  • Action Economy:** Managing followers to perform actions such as building sacred sites, studying, and shifting land tiles.
  • Geometric Puzzle:** The board state changes with each turn, requiring spatial thinking.

    Game Objective:

  • Wisdom Accumulation:** Gather wisdom by building sacred sites on mountains and having followers study.
  • Ascension Track:** Move your Demigod pawn up the ziggurat track by building sacred sites.
  • Scoring:** Score points based on your position on the Ascension track, unlocked actions on the player board, and followers studying at the end of the game.

    Player Experience

    Playing Oros can be initially overwhelming due to its unique mechanics, but it becomes highly satisfying once understood. Players must plan carefully, managing their followers to perform the right actions at the right time. The game requires spatial thinking and strategic planning, especially when manipulating the land tiles to create mountains and strategic pathways. The Automa system for solo or two-player games adds a layer of complexity and realism, making the game enjoyable across all player counts.

    Pros

  • Unique Mechanics:** Oros offers a fresh and different gaming experience with its land-shifting and geometric puzzle elements.
  • Strategic Depth:** The game requires careful planning and management of actions and followers.
  • Solo and Two-Player Support:** The Automa system is well-implemented and enhances the solo and two-player experience.
  • Quick Setup:** Setup is faster than explaining the rules, making it easy to get started.

    Cons

  • Initial Complexity:** The game can feel complex and awkward in the first playthrough.
  • Learning Curve:** Understanding the movement of tiles and the best strategies takes several plays.
  • Potential for Analysis Paralysis:** Deciding the best actions and tile movements can slow down the game.

    Personal Thoughts on Oros

    Oros is a game designed for players looking for a unique and challenging strategy experience. It is perfect for those who enjoy games that require spatial thinking and strategic planning. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its initial complexity, it will appeal to experienced gamers and those who are eager to learn and master new mechanics. The game’s clean design, quick setup, and rewarding gameplay make it a hidden gem worth exploring.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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