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Treehouse (2006) Board Game

ByMichail

Treehouse is a board game designed by Andrew Looney and published by Looney Labs in in 2006. It falls under the category of abstract strategy games and focuses on dice rolling, pattern building, and roll/spin and move mechanics. The game is designed for 2-4 players, with a recommended age of 8 and up.

Game Components of Treehouse

  • 15 Icehouse pyramids, divided into five differently colored sets (each set includes three pyramids of different sizes)
  • A special “Treehouse Die” marked with TIP, SWAP, DIG, AIM, HOP, or WILD
  • Game rules printed on the outside of the tube

    How To Setup Treehouse

    To set up Treehouse, each player is assigned three pyramids, one of each size, stacked on top of one another in a configuration called a “tree”. A neutral set of three pyramids, known as the “House,” is placed in the center of the table in a different arrangement.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** Arrange your three pyramids to match the central “House” configuration.
  • Mechanics:**
    – Players roll the special “Treehouse Die” to determine the type of move they can make.
    – Moves include TIP, SWAP, DIG, AIM, HOP, or a WILD option which allows any move.
    – Players adjust their pyramids according to the die roll to try and match the central configuration.

    Player Experience

    Treehouse is designed for 2-4 players and is suitable for all ages. The game is quick, with setup taking less than 5 minutes and gameplay lasting between 5-10 minutes. It involves high chance due to the die rolls but requires pattern recognition skills to strategize moves effectively.

    Pros

  • Easy to Learn:** Simple rules printed on the tube make it easy for new players to start.
  • Quick Gameplay:** Games are short, making it a great filler or introductory game.
  • Portable:** Comes in a compact tube containing all necessary components.
  • Color Variants:** Available in Rainbow and Xeno color sets, and special editions like Pink Treehouse.

    Cons

  • High Chance:** The game’s reliance on die rolls introduces a significant element of luck.
  • Limited Strategic Depth:** The simplicity and short gameplay may not appeal to those seeking more complex strategy.

    Personal Thoughts on Treehouse

    Treehouse is an excellent introduction to the Icehouse family of games and is particularly suited for families or casual gamers. It’s a great way to develop pattern recognition skills in a fun and interactive manner. However, players seeking more strategic depth or longer game sessions may find Treehouse too simplistic. Nonetheless, its award-winning status and ease of play make it a worthwhile addition to any board game collection.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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