Wongar (2000) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Wongar is a board game released in 2000, designed by Franz Vohwinkel. It is set in prehistoric times and focuses on area majority and influence mechanics. The game is designed for 3–5 players, with a recommended age of 12 and up.

Game Components of Wongar

Control Markers: Three types, each scoring when the area is scored.

Ancestor and Elder Tokens: Trigger scoring in areas and grant first-player status or extra scoring cards.

Scoring Cards: Used to manipulate control markers during scoring.

Card Decks: Each area has its own draw pile.

Scorpion Cards: Age the game and increase scoring value.

Board: Features several square-ish areas, each with a draw pile.

Player Tokens: Four tokens of each type per player, placed randomly on the board.

How To Setup Wongar

To set up Wongar, players start by distributing four tokens of each type randomly on the board. These tokens are mixed in a cloth bag and drawn one at a time, placing them on the board starting from the top left area. Each player receives a set of control markers, and the card decks are shuffled and placed on their respective areas on the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Area Majority / Influence: Players place control markers to influence and score areas.

Card Drafting: Players sequentially pick the top card from the decks to take actions.

Scoring: Areas are scored when Ancestor or Elder tokens appear, using scoring cards to manipulate markers.

Objective: To accumulate the most points by strategically placing control markers and using scoring cards effectively.

Player Experience

Playing Wongar involves a mix of strategic planning and tactical maneuvering. Players must carefully choose which actions to take from the card decks, balancing the need to place control markers in high-scoring areas with the risk of triggering scoring prematurely. The game’s pacing is influenced by the scorpion cards, which add an element of urgency as the game progresses.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers complex decision-making and area control mechanics.

Interactive: Players constantly interact with each other through control markers and scoring cards.

Theme: The prehistoric theme adds a unique and engaging setting.

Components: High-quality components, including the board and tokens.

Cons

Learning Curve: The game has a moderate to high complexity, which can be daunting for new players.

Length: The 90-minute playing time may be too long for some players.

Randomness: The draw of cards and placement of tokens can introduce significant randomness.

Personal Thoughts on Wongar

Wongar is for players who enjoy strategic games with a strong focus on area control and card drafting. It is ideal for those who appreciate games that require careful planning and tactical execution. While it may not be the best fit for casual or new gamers due to its complexity and length, it offers a rich and engaging experience for experienced players looking to dive into a challenging and rewarding game.

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