Check out this game if: you like abstract games like chess or checkers.
This game stands out because: the simple/logical rules make this game feel timeless. The counter moves (caping a building) make this game even more strategic than other abstract games.
Positives:
1. You can teach/learn this game in less than 5 minutes.
2. The bulky plastic components look and feel great.
3. The tabletop presence is captivating -this will lure players in.
4. Easy to set up and take down.
5. Special player cards add to replayability.
6. This game is full of “I’ll do better next time” endings.
Negative:
1. Direct conflict may not go over well with some.
2. Despite player cards, replayability isn’t great.
Brief Overview:
In this game, you win if you can get one of your builder figurines onto the third level of a building.
On you turn, you can move one of your builders to an adjacent space (level with, up one level from current level, or down as many levels as you’d like). Next you can build on an adjacent space.
Versions:
There is only one version of this game, but there are similar games like Gobblet, Hive, Ingenious, Blokus, and Qwirkle.
Teaching Advice:
This game is easy to teach, but make sure to let the other player touch the components before you start explaining the rules (trust me, they want to hold them). After everyone has touched the components, show how the game is won. Next show and tell the steps of a turn. If you want to be nice, be sure to let the other player know about putting blue caps on top of towers. That’s it.
| Number of Players | 2 |
| Age | 8+ |
| Time | 20 mins |
| Friendly | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Teachable | ★★★★★ |
| Replayability | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Creative Freedom | ★★★★☆ |
| Inclusive (no elimination) | ★★★★★ |
| Interaction | ★★★★☆ |
Link to tutorial video on YouTube.
Link to Santorini on Amazon
I like the abstract, chess-like aspect of this game, but I feel the cards really bring the game down.
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interesting, why do you think the cards bring the game down?
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