TAJ (2015) Board Game – Board Game Guys

TAJ is a board game released in 2015, designed by Chris Handy. The game is for 2-4 players, with a runtime of around 10 minutes. It falls under the negotiation category and involves voting as a key gameplay mechanism.

Game Components of TAJ

Game Cards: Proposals and rug cards

Player Tokens: For tracking votes and prestige

Rulebook: Concise instructions for setup and gameplay

Rug Displays: Representing the Taj Mahal display area

How To Setup TAJ

To set up TAJ, players first lay out the rug display area, which represents the Taj Mahal. Each player selects a secret color scheme card, which determines their scoring strategy. Proposal cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. Each player starts with a set of tokens for voting and tracking prestige.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Voting Mechanics: Players vote on proposals made by opponents to shift rugs in the display.

Area Influence: Players aim to manipulate the rug display to match their secret color scheme.

Game Objective: The goal is to gain the most prestige by having rugs displaying your secret color scheme in the most prominent positions.

Player Experience

In TAJ, players take on the roles of ancient rug collectors competing to display their collection in the Taj Mahal. The game is quick, lasting about 10 minutes, and involves strategic voting to influence the rug display. Players must balance their own goals with the need to disrupt their opponents’ plans, making each game dynamic and interactive.

Pros

Portable: Part of the Pack O Game series, designed to be compact and travel-friendly.

Quick Gameplay: Games last only 10 minutes, making it a great filler game.

Strategic Depth: Despite its short length, the game requires strategic thinking and planning.

Interactive: Players constantly interact through voting, adding a social element.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Best with 2-4 players; gameplay may not be as engaging with fewer players.

Luck Factor: Voting outcomes can be unpredictable, introducing an element of luck.

Simple Components: While compact, the components are not overly complex or visually stunning.

Personal Thoughts on TAJ

TAJ is ideal for players who enjoy quick, strategic games with a social twist. It’s perfect for game nights where you need a filler game that still offers depth and interaction. The game’s portability and short playtime make it a great addition to any gaming collection. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking complex, long-duration games or games with highly detailed components.

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.