Reef (2018) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Reef is a board game designed by Emerson Matsuuchi and released in 2018 by Next Move Games. It is a game that combines abstract strategy with elements of animal-themed gameplay. The game has received positive reviews for its unique mechanics and beautiful artwork by Chris Quilliams.

Game Components of Reef

Player boards: Each player has a board to build their reef.

Coral pieces: Colorful, chunky, and high-quality pieces that can be stacked.

Cards: These indicate which coral pieces to add and the patterns to score points.

Deck and display: For drawing and playing cards.

How To Setup Reef

To set up Reef, each player receives a player board. The coral pieces are placed within reach of all players, and the card deck is shuffled and placed face down. A few cards are drawn to create a display. Each player starts with a limited number of cards in their hand.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Players can either draw a card or play a card from their hand.

Card Actions: Played cards specify which coral pieces to add to the player’s reef and any scoring patterns.

Scoring: Points are awarded for completing patterns indicated on the cards. Patterns must be distinct and not share pieces.

Stacking: Coral pieces can be stacked up to a maximum of four pieces, with only the top piece counting for scoring.

Game End: The game ends when one color of coral runs out or the card deck is depleted. Players score their remaining cards and tally points.

Objective: The goal is to have the most points by building the most beautiful and score-worthy reef.

Player Experience

Reef offers a blend of simplicity and strategic depth. The game is easy to learn, with rules that fit on just a page and a half, but it requires thoughtful planning and tactical decision-making. Players must balance short-term goals with long-term strategies, as the random draw of cards can disrupt plans. The 3D aspect of stacking coral pieces adds a unique and engaging layer to the game.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to a wide range of ages.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and tactical decisions.

High-Quality Components: Colorful, chunky coral pieces and good card quality.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 8 and up, making it a great family game.

Short Playtime: Games typically last between 30 to 45 minutes.

Cons

Solitary Gameplay: Players focus on their own reefs with minimal interaction with others.

Random Card Draw: Can limit long-term planning due to the unpredictability of card draws.

Limited Discard Option: Players cannot discard cards without playing them, which can hinder strategy.

Personal Thoughts on Reef

Reef is an excellent choice for families and casual gamers looking for a game that is both fun and strategic. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy abstract games like Azul or Photosynthesis but want something with a unique 3D twist. The game’s short playtime and easy-to-learn rules make it a great introduction to more strategic board games for younger players, while its depth keeps it engaging for adults. However, players seeking games with significant player interaction may find Reef less appealing.

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