Shifti (1977) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Shifti is an abstract strategy board game that was first released in 1977 by Design Associates. The game is designed for 2 to 4 players and has a playing time of around 30 minutes. It falls under the category of abstract strategy and dice games, featuring a modular board and tile placement as its main gameplay mechanisms.

Game Components of Shifti

1 Plastic game board

16 Plastic playing pieces (4 pieces each in red, blue, green, and yellow)

2 Specialty dice (one with star, star, star, 1, 2, 3 and the other with star, star, 2 stars, 4, 5, 6)

Rules

How To Setup Shifti

To set up Shifti, place the plastic game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a set of four colored pieces and places them on their respective starting corners of the board. The specialty dice are also prepared for use.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Dice Rolling: Players roll the specialty dice to determine movements and field shifts.

Piece Movement: Players can move their pieces on black squares when pips show up on the dice.

Field Shifting: Stars on the dice allow players to shift the playing field, altering the game’s layout.

Turn End: If both dice show stars, the player’s turn ends.

Game Objective

The first player to get all four of their pieces to the opposite corners of the board wins.

Player Experience

Shifti offers a dynamic and engaging experience, similar to games like Chinese Checkers or Shuttles. The unique dice and shifting field mechanics add a layer of complexity and strategy, making it appealing to players who enjoy abstract strategy and dice games. The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, making it a great option for small gatherings or family game nights.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: The combination of dice rolling and field shifting adds a novel twist to traditional board games.

Simple to Learn: The rules are easy to understand, making it accessible to players of all ages.

Strategic Depth: The game requires strategic thinking to optimize movements and field shifts.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 8 to adult.

Cons

Limited Replayability: The game’s mechanics, while unique, might become repetitive after multiple plays.

Dice Dependency: The game’s progress is heavily dependent on dice rolls, which can lead to luck-based outcomes.

Personal Thoughts on Shifti

Shifti is an excellent choice for those who enjoy strategic board games with a touch of luck and dynamic gameplay. It is particularly suited for families or small groups looking for a game that is easy to learn but challenging to master. While it may not offer the same level of complexity as more modern board games, its unique mechanics and straightforward rules make it a delightful addition to any game collection.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.