Piranha Pedro (2004) – Board Game Guys

Piranha Pedro

Piranha Pedro is a board game designed by Jens-Peter Schliemann and published by Goldsieber, Asmodée Editions, and Kanga Games. The game was awarded the Essen Feather in 2005. The game’s main character is Pedro, who is stranded on a small island surrounded by water infested with piranhas. Each player has an identical hand of 12 cards, three of which move Pedro up, down, left, and right. The game board consists of a 15 x 11 square river area with a small island placed somewhere in the river. A total of 7 piranhas are placed on the board.

Why is Piranha Pedro Popular?

Piranha Pedro is a game of quick and simple bluff, with loads of excitement and tension. The game is popular because it is easy to learn and play, yet it requires strategic thinking and decision-making. The game’s unique theme and mechanics make it stand out from other board games.

Game Components of Piranha Pedro

Gameboard: A 15 x 11 square river area with a small island and four landscape cards (village, waterfall, jungle, and sun) on the edges.

Piranhas: 7 piranhas placed on the riverbed.

Pedro: A single playing figure used by all players.

Movement Cards: Each player receives 12 identical movement cards showing different directions and steps.

Stones: Each player starts with four stones.

Landscape Cards: Used to determine Pedro’s movement direction.

How To Setup Piranha Pedro

To set up the game, place the gameboard in the middle of the playing area. Position the small island centrally on the board, and align the four landscape cards on the edges of the board. Place the 7 piranhas on their starting positions in the riverbed. Each player receives a set of 12 movement cards and four stones. Pedro, the playing figure, starts on the island.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement Mechanism: Players choose a movement card each round, revealing them simultaneously. The starting player moves Pedro first, followed by the next players in sequence.

Direction and Steps: Movement cards show one of the four landscapes and the number of steps (1-3) to move Pedro in that direction.

Stone Placement: Players must place a stone on a water space if Pedro moves onto it.

Penalties: If Pedro moves onto a piranha or off the grid, the player responsible takes a piranha as a penalty.

Objective: The game ends when a player has taken two piranhas. All other players win, making it a game where players aim to avoid losing rather than winning.

Player Experience

Piranha Pedro offers a highly interactive and fun experience for players. The game involves a significant amount of second-guessing and bluffing, as players try to anticipate each other’s moves to keep Pedro safe. The comic-book style rulebook adds a unique and engaging touch to the game. The artwork is fitting and enhances the overall gaming experience.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: Players try to avoid losing rather than winning.

High Interaction: Players need to guess each other’s moves, adding a bluffing element.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for beginners and seasoned players alike.

Awards and Recognition: Nominated for the Kinderspiel des Jahres 2005 and won the Essen Feather in 2005.

Cons

Complexity: While the game is generally easy to learn, the bluffing mechanism can be complex for younger players.

Luck Factor: The game involves a degree of luck, as the movement cards can lead to unpredictable outcomes.

Personal Thoughts on Piranha Pedro

Piranha Pedro is an excellent choice for families and groups of friends looking for a light-hearted yet engaging game. It is particularly suited for players aged 8 and above, given its simplicity and the need for strategic thinking. The game’s unique mechanics and high player interaction make it a standout in the world of board games, ideal for those who enjoy games that combine strategy and fun.

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