Sushi Go! (2013) – Board Game Guys

Sushi Go!

Sushi Go! is a card game designed by Phil Walker-Harding and published by Gamewright Games in 2013. The game is about eating at a sushi restaurant and trying to grab the best combination of sushi dishes as they whiz by. The game has a central drafting mechanic where players take one card from their hand and pass the rest to their neighbor. The game later received an updated re-release with Sushi Go Party!, which features many new card types that can be combined into various “menus” tailored for specific settings.

Why is Sushi Go! Popular?

Sushi Go! is a simple and fast game that is easy to learn but hard to master. It is a fun game to play at family game night as well as out at a bar with friends. The game has adorable card art and is praised for its accessibility-focused approach to game design. The game is also portable, making it easy to take on the go.

Game Components of Sushi Go!

Card Deck: Comprising over 100 cards featuring various sushi dishes like nigiri, sashimi, tempura, maki rolls, wasabi, chopsticks, and pudding.

Scoring System: Simple scoring cards or a scoreboard to keep track of points.

Player Count: 2-5 players.

Age Range: Marketed for ages 8+.

How To Setup Sushi Go!

Setup is straightforward: the deck is shuffled, and each player is dealt a predetermined number of cards based on the total number of players (8 to 10 cards each). Players look at their cards, choose one to keep, and pass the remaining cards to the player on their left.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Card Drafting: Players select one card from their hand and pass the rest to the next player.

Hand Management: Managing the cards to maximize points.

Set Collection: Collecting sets of specific sushi cards to score points.

Simultaneous Action Selection: Players choose their cards simultaneously.

Game Objective

Collect the best combination of sushi dishes to score the most points.

Score points for collecting nigiri, sashimi, tempura, maki rolls, and pudding.

Use wasabi to triple the value of nigiri cards.

Employ chopsticks to take two cards in a single turn.

Gather the most pudding cards for a bonus at the end of the game.

Player Experience

**Sushi Go** is a game that balances simplicity with strategic depth. It’s easy to learn and plays quickly, lasting about 15 minutes per game. The game involves a delicate balance between collecting the right sushi combinations and denying opportunities to your opponents. The interactions are constant, as players pass cards and make tactical decisions based on what others might be collecting.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules that anyone can grasp quickly.

Quick Gameplay: Games last around 15 minutes, making it an excellent filler game.

Strategic Depth: Despite its simplicity, the game requires tactical thinking and adaptation.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for both kids and adults.

Portable: Comes in a compact tin, making it easy to carry.

Cons

Limited Replayability: Games can feel similar after multiple plays.

Not for Deep Gamers: Lack of complexity may not keep hardcore gamers engaged.

Colour Blindness Consideration: Though not a major issue, colour blindness might affect quick card identification.

Personal Thoughts on Sushi Go!

**Sushi Go** is perfect for those looking for a light, fun, and quick gaming experience. It’s ideal for family gatherings, casual game nights, or as a filler game between longer sessions. While it may not satisfy gamers seeking deep, complex gameplay, it serves as an excellent introduction to card drafting and set collection mechanics. Its accessibility and simplicity make it a great choice for both kids and adults, ensuring a enjoyable experience for all players involved.

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