SPQF (2018) Board Game – Board Game Guys

SPQF is a strategic card game that was released in 2018 by designers Sid Quade and Fredrik Skarstedt. The game revolves around building civilizations and managing resources in order to become the most powerful player. It is recommended for players ages 14 and up, and typically takes around 20-45 minutes to play.

Game Components of SPQF

20 starter cards

48 civilization cards

4 monument cards

25 crop cubes

25 material cubes

4 wooden tableaus

4 wooden civilization markers

1 first player coin

40 wooden VP acorns.

How To Setup SPQF

To set up SPQF, each player starts with a player board and sets their civilization level to 0. Each player receives a set of starter cards and five random cards from the civilization deck. The game also includes setting aside victory points, green and black cubes, and shuffling the monument cards. Three cards are revealed to form the trade row, and each player draws a hand of five cards to begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Action Phase: Players play one card from their hand, resolving its effects. Other players can follow by playing cards with matching symbols.

Recruit Phase: The active player must recruit one card from the trade row or an opponent’s trade row.

Discard Phase: Players discard cards from their trade row and any played or followed cards.

Draw Phase: Players draw five new cards, reshuffling the discard pile if necessary.

Game Objective

The objective is to build the greatest civilization by accumulating victory points through card effects, advancing civilization levels, and scoring points from monuments and cards. The game ends when one player reaches 25 VP tokens, achieves the fifth civilization level, or when the civilization deck is empty.

Player Experience

SPQF offers a complex and interactive experience, particularly appealing to gamers who enjoy depth and subtle strategy. The game’s transient deck mechanic, where unused cards are made available to other players, adds a layer of strategy and negotiation. Players must balance resource management, card recruitment, and strategic planning to outmaneuver their opponents. The game’s anthropomorphic animal theme and wooden components add a unique and visually appealing element.

Pros

Unique Deck-Building Mechanic: Allows players to recruit cards from other players’ trade rows, adding a dynamic market element.

Deep Strategy: Offers complex interactions and subtle strategies for experienced gamers.

Engaging Theme: Uses anthropomorphic animals and wooden components to create an inviting atmosphere.

High Replayability: Encourages multiple plays to uncover new strategies and interactions.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s dense rules and complex symbology can be overwhelming for new players.

Graphic Design Issues: Some important information is hidden in artistic flourishes, making it difficult to read at first.

Lengthy Setup and Explanation: Requires significant time to set up and explain the rules.

Not Exciting for Casual Players: The game’s grind and complexity may not appeal to players seeking a more casual experience.

Personal Thoughts on SPQF

SPQF is designed for gamers who crave depth and complexity in their games. It is ideal for those who enjoy uncovering new strategies and interactions with each play. However, it may not be the best fit for casual players or those looking for a quick, straightforward gaming experience. If you’re searching for a game that could become your next obsession rather than just a casual play, SPQF is definitely worth considering.

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