Tsuro (2005) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Tsuro is an abstract strategy game that was first released in in 2005. It has gained popularity for its simple yet engaging gameplay that appeals to a wide range of players, from casual gamers to more serious board game enthusiasts. The game involves players laying tiles to create paths on the board, trying to stay on the board while strategically maneuvering to avoid colliding with other players.

Game Components of Tsuro

Game board

35 path tiles

1 Dragon tile

8 dragon markers (player tokens)

Rulebook

How To Setup Tsuro

To set up Tsuro, unfold the board and have each player choose a colored marker, placing it on one of the outside spaces on the edge of the board. Shuffle all the tiles and place them in a stack with the Dragon tile at the bottom. Deal three tiles to each player. This setup is quick and straightforward, taking about 1 minute.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Tile-laying, path-building, and player elimination.

Objective: The goal is to be the last player remaining on the board.
– Players place a tile to extend the path for their dragon token.
– All tokens that connect to the newly placed tile follow their respective paths.
– If a path leads to the edge of the board or results in a collision with another dragon, the player is eliminated.
– The player who placed the tile draws a new one, and the next player takes their turn.

Player Experience

Tsuro is known for its simplicity and elegance, making it accessible to a wide range of players, including children as young as 5 years old. The game starts off slow, with players avoiding each other, but it quickly becomes more interactive and challenging as the paths converge. Games are generally short, lasting around 20 minutes, which is ideal for families or for those looking for a quick, fun game.

Pros

Inclusive: Suitable for all ages, including young children.

Quick Games: Lasts about 20 minutes.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules that take only a few minutes to understand.

High Player Capacity: Supports up to 8 players.

Great Table Presence: Beautifully designed components and board.

Cons

Luck Factor: Higher player counts introduce more luck into the game.

Player Elimination: Players can be eliminated quickly, which may not appeal to everyone.

Short Games: Games can end too quickly.

Expensive: Priced at around £39.99.

Limited Strategy: The game is light on strategy, which may not satisfy experienced gamers.

Personal Thoughts on Tsuro

Tsuro is a fantastic addition to any family game collection or for those new to modern board games. It’s a great option for families with young children due to its simple yet engaging gameplay. While it may not offer deep strategic layers, its ease of play and beautiful components make it a delightful experience. It’s particularly recommended for groups looking for a light, fun party game that can accommodate a large number of players. However, experienced gamers might find it too light and lacking in complexity.

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