Tricky Tides (2019) Board Game

Tricky Tides is a board game released in 2019, designed by Naomi Ferrall. It is a nautical-themed game that combines elements of contracts, pick-up and deliver, and trick-taking mechanics. The game is set in a whimsical world where players take on the role of captains navigating their ships through treacherous waters to deliver cargo and complete contracts.

Game Components of Tricky Tides

Game board

Ship tokens

Cargo tokens

Contract cards

Event cards

Player mats

Rulebook

How To Setup Tricky Tides

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Distribute player mats and ship tokens to each player.

Shuffle contract cards and place them face down.

Place cargo tokens and event cards within reach.

Determine the starting player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Tricky Tides, players take turns navigating their ships, picking up and delivering cargo, and completing contracts. The game utilizes trick-taking mechanics to determine player order and resolve conflicts. The objective is to earn the most points by fulfilling contracts and delivering cargo to the right destinations.

Player Experience

Pros:

Engaging gameplay that blends different mechanics.

Strategic depth with contract fulfillment and cargo delivery.

Beautiful nautical-themed artwork.

Cons:

Steep learning curve for new players.

Luck-based elements can sometimes dictate outcomes.

Limited replayability once players have mastered strategies.

Personal Thoughts on Tricky Tides

Tricky Tides is a visually appealing game with an interesting mix of mechanics that can provide a unique gaming experience. However, the steep learning curve and reliance on luck may deter some players. The game’s build quality is solid, and the nautical theme is well-executed. In terms of pricing and availability, Tricky Tides falls within the mid-range of board game prices and can be found both new and used.

For those who enjoy a challenging strategy game with a nautical theme, Tricky Tides is worth considering. However, players who prefer simpler gameplay or are not fans of luck-based elements may want to skip this one. Alternatives such as “Merchants & Marauders” or “Black Fleet” offer similar themes and mechanics for players to explore. Overall, Tricky Tides is a game that can be worth your time if you enjoy strategic challenges and nautical adventures.

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