Tholos (2021) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Tholos is an abstract strategy board game released in 2021, designed by Jesús Fuentes and illustrated by Perro Loko Games. The game is designed for 2 players and has a playing time of 15-25 minutes. Tholos falls into the category of abstract strategy games, focusing on area majority and influence as its main mechanisms.

Game Components of Tholos

Game board

Player tokens

Construction tiles

Action cards

Score tokens

How To Setup Tholos

To set up Tholos, players first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses their tokens and places them on the starting positions on the board. The construction tiles are shuffled and placed face down within reach of all players. Action cards are also shuffled and dealt to each player according to the game’s rules. Score tokens are kept aside to track points during the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Tile placement

Action card management

Strategic planning

Game Objective

The objective of Tholos is to construct the Tholos of Delphi by strategically placing tiles and using action cards to outmaneuver your opponent. The game ends when the Tholos is fully constructed, and the player with the most points, earned through efficient tile placement and card management, wins.

Player Experience

Tholos is an intense, yet fast-to-learn game designed for two players. It offers easy-to-understand actions but requires complex decision-making, making it appealing to fans of abstract strategy games. The game is relatively quick, allowing for multiple matches in a single sitting.

Pros

Easy to learn but challenging to master

Fast-paced gameplay

High replayability due to variable setup and card draws

Engaging strategic depth

Cons

Limited to two players

May not appeal to those seeking thematic or narrative-driven games

Some players might find the abstract nature less engaging

Personal Thoughts on Tholos

Tholos is ideal for fans of abstract strategy games who enjoy tactical challenges and quick matches. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate games that require deep thinking but can be learned swiftly. While it may not be the best fit for players looking for a multiplayer experience or a game with a strong narrative, it stands out as a compelling addition to any collection of two-player strategy games.

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