Totemic (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Totemic is a card game released in 2020 by Kolossal Games. Designed by Christopher Hamm, it is a strategic game for 1-2 players with a runtime of 15-30 minutes. The game features beautiful artwork by Chris Byer and Yotoy, and falls under the categories of Card Game and Print & Play.

Game Components of Totemic

Animal spirit cards: Each card represents a different animal with unique abilities and strengths.

Nature cards: These cards depict various aspects of the natural environment and interactions.

Aspect tokens: Used to represent the specific abilities and strengths of each animal spirit.

Totem tokens: Indicate the players’ progress and position in the natural world.

How To Setup Totemic

To set up the game, players first shuffle and deal the animal spirit cards, ensuring each player has a starting hand. The Nature cards are then shuffled and placed face down in a draw pile. Aspect tokens and Totem tokens are distributed according to the game’s rules. Players choose their starting animal spirit and begin their journey to find their place in nature.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card drafting: Players draft animal spirit cards to build their deck.

Area control: Players compete to control different areas of the natural world.

Resource management: Players manage aspect tokens to use their animal spirits’ abilities effectively.

Objective: The goal is to find and secure your place in nature by using cunning, strength, and unique abilities.

Player Experience

In **Totemic**, players are transported to a primal world where they embody the spirits of various animals. The game requires strategic thinking, as players must balance resource management with the need to assert their dominance in the natural world. The unique abilities of each animal spirit add a layer of complexity and variety to the gameplay.

Pros

Unique animal abilities: Each animal spirit has distinct strengths and weaknesses.

Strategic depth: The game combines card drafting, area control, and resource management.

Immersive theme: Players feel connected to the natural world and their animal spirits.

Affordable: Priced around €10.75 or CA$11.99, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Cons

Complex rules: New players might find the rules and setup somewhat complex.

Luck factor: The draw of Nature cards and animal spirit cards can introduce an element of luck.

Personal Thoughts on Totemic

**Totemic** is ideal for those who enjoy strategic games with a strong thematic element. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate games that combine different mechanics like card drafting and area control. While it may not be the best fit for casual players due to its complexity, fans of deeper strategy games will find **Totemic** engaging and challenging.

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