How many players can play Santorini?

Santorini supports 1 to 4 players.

How long does a game of Santorini take?

A typical game of Santorini takes approximately 20 minutes.

What are the best video reviews of Santorini?

MindForge has curated 113 video reviews of Santorini from top board game content creators.

What type of game is Santorini?

Santorini features mechanics including Asymmetric Player Powers, Grid Movement, Layer Building, Positive Player Interaction, Tile Placement.

Santorini - Board Game

Video A6W3YDI_XxY Watch It Played Discussion at 7:16 sentiment: positive

video_pk 92026 · mention_pk 247106

Click to watch at 7:16 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

really cool
very clever
very creative

Cons

none

Thematic elements

minimalist design style

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

if you donated during our seventh season fundraiser for watch it played then a survey has been sent out to you assuming you donated more than fifteen dollars I need to get some shipping information and some other details potentially based on your pledge
if you wouldn't mind pause this video if you donate it go check your inbox make sure you've got the survey and fill it out and again before you contact me just double check all the other places that the survey could be junk folders promotion folders and so on
if you missed our fundraiser we'd like to support the show still or maybe you're just looking for a really cool gaming accessory then I want to point you over to our friends at Dawg mic games we're currently running a Kickstarter for their newest line of custom made diced our dice storage combination products
this is a game back in 1995 when it first came out then I sucked a bunch of my friends into playing with me we all had our own gangs it's kind of a a gang style skirmish level miniatures game system with a full campaign and we played months and months this campaign and so the game is near and dear to my heart
well pack some plug which is occurring in November 2017 the current month of this recording is a convention focused very much on tabletop games first and I'm going to be attending that and helping them run a few sessions in there learn and play a room
oh my oh wow this this is pretty cool this is pretty cool check this out this is like a movie style poster from mansions of madness Avantika madness the show that we first launched the channel width was mansions of madness first edition and of course we've recently covered the second edition it's not that is awesome that is really really cool Fantasy Flight Games presents mansions of madness that lists here the names of the designers people who worked on the game itself that is Wow Wow that is fantastic I have a find somewhere down here to hang this up this is definitely going in the watcher plate studios thank you so much
oh look at this one this is uh can you recognize it it's Santorini you see it recognizes the Billy if you plate Santorini before then these pieces will stand out to you it's kind of like a young a minimalist design style when you say for these games
this is terraforming Mars so you see that we got the plant Mars there and this little tree growing out of it because it's being terraformed that is fantastic and I love the different sizes this is really really cool Frick's games and stronghold games presents terraforming Mars that is really cool very clever very creative
here's exactly what comes in the package you have 12 grain brick iron coal wood and pumpkin resources exactly as many as you need for the game of charter stone now obviously this is a luxury upgrade this is not something that you need in order to be able to play the game but they really are high quality detailed well-made components and I do think they enhance the experience
if you donated during our seventh season fundraiser for watch it played at the $15 or higher level you're automatically entered into this contest there's nothing more that you have to do but don't worry you never have to donate during our fundraisers to enter our contests all you have to do is go to the link in the description of this video that will take you to the contest enter your email address in there so if you win I have a way of contacting you and also put in the code word the code word is top-shelf gamer without any spaces all one word top-shelf gamer

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video OdxE2rvzrIw Actualol Discussion at 117:50:50 sentiment: positive

video_pk 91808 · mention_pk 246481

Click to watch at 117:50:50 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Stunning plastic blocks
Learn the rules in 30 seconds but it will take a lifetime to master
Each game you play with different god cards which twist the dynamic meaning it's always a refreshing challenge

Cons

Challenge is to get your person into a winning position without being stopped by your opponent

Thematic elements

Building structures to reach a winning position
Ancient Greece

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — Players move workers and build buildings with the goal of reaching a winning position.
Variable player powers — God cards provide unique abilities that change the game's dynamics.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's called I Know Mia.
It's about Mia being murdered.
It's just one card, you know, so it's very easy to set up.
You scan the QR code to go to the crime scene, you scan the QR code to talk to the people involved.
It's essentially like a board game version of a point-and-click adventure game.
You have to work together to complete the missions.
It's just a deck of cards, you know, no real board.
It's basically the same game as The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine, but with a few tweaks.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video y00mXmBE_lw 3 Minute Board Games Top List at 10:16 sentiment: positive

video_pk 91370 · mention_pk 245191

Click to watch at 10:16 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

Highly Positive

Pros

Simple mechanics with deep strategy
Highly engaging and can captivate experienced gamers
Deceptively complex for a 'cute' game

Cons

Can melt your brain

Thematic elements

Building
Greek Mythology (implied by name)

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — Purest example of simple puzzle mechanics creating an unexpectedly deep strategic game.
god powers — Dinky god powers.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I love everything about this game [Block by Block]
the concept is simple guess who but it's all brilliant women and you narrow down your opponent's identity using questions of accomplishment not appearance
obsession is a brilliantly designed worker placement game with a mechanics and theme of vintage English social climbing and flirtation tie together beautifully
in my experience obsession is best enjoyed with a few glasses of wine lots of smutty wordplay and accusing your table mates of being secret American cads in terribly over-the-top accents
thanks for sticking through to the end chums it has been a blast creating this paradigm shifting content for you and for the glory of the algorithm

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video ttqY2ZIfX-A Watch It Played Discussion at 44:16

video_pk 91107 · mention_pk 244231

Click to watch at 44:16 · YouTube ↗

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

i don't believe in the concept of must-have game oh this is a game you must have there's no game you must have there's no game that everyone enjoys
you know what i i have to say i think the mountie from dead of winter is my favorite promo
i don't want to say no very very well could be
if you enjoyed seeing me at this convention that we're now meeting in person and we're shaking hands if you enjoy seeing the things online that you do understand you made it happen like you've literally made it happen because none of this works uh without some kind of financial support at the end
I always say that and then I don't actually keep to it.
You know what uh oh gosh hold on one more second oh I'm gonna get something else really the stream should be over this chat is we're closing it down in just a couple of minutes this is the last time I'm getting up it really is I promise you
I won't belabor the story here because you should buy this book.
I don't have a link in the description to it I'll try to think to put it there but this is a great tips and tricks guide
I really felt like the fifth edition is really quite quite cool.
I like what they've done with it so anyway.
I would love a a game based on the television show the prisoner
I highly recommend it to you go out and watch that that show it's so so good
I would love to do a rules tutorial for twilight struggle
it's it's a fantastic game it really is
I am not a number that is right that is a quote from the prisoner
I hope you stay safe wash your hands be careful keep distance from everyone
Let's just stay safe I just want all of you to stay safe
Stay safe out there I care about you all and I really appreciate the caring and thoughtful things that people have said to me as well

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video Z_J0jrl8sdQ Meeple University Top 10 List at 11:16 sentiment: positive

video_pk 90671 · mention_pk 242470

Click to watch at 11:16 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

So pretty
Quick and tactile
Easy to pick up
Stacking element is fun
Feels like the game board is coming to life
Well balanced

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Greek island

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Area Control — The host mentions 'block people' and winning by getting a piece to the fourth level of a tower.
Asymmetric powers — The host states 'everyone has asymmetric god powers'.
Set Collection — The host mentions 'building is those blue domes' which can block towers.
Worker Placement — The host explains 'you move one of your workers'.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

it's like this awesome facial puzzle where you get to manipulate dice as well
i feel like i'm missing out here
it's the best example of how the platform can look
i think it's a game that combat exists but you should only use it very strategically
the gate bits for this game are really pretty as well
it's fully free fully free on table

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video MdCx7m_dLy8 Brains On Games Top 10 List at 42:49 sentiment: positive

video_pk 90364 · mention_pk 241384

Click to watch at 42:49 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

tight, elegant decisions with approachable rules
excellent table presence and visuals
new york edition adds grid-based play while keeping core feel

Cons

some players may crave more thematic depth

Thematic elements

abstract strategy with mythic gods and powers
mythic island of Santorini reimagined as a geometric battle
elegant minimalism with deep strategy

Comparison games

Sagrada
Blueprints

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — players place and move builders to reach victory conditions
Asymmetric abilities — each builder can gain unique powers via gods, adding variability

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Walled City is criminally underrepresented in the gaming sphere.
It's a real gem, it's a nice small box.
Lanterns Harvest Festival is a standout for its tile-laying and color-mantling mechanisms.
If you like real-time games, Jab Real-Time Boxing is the best of the best.
Star Trek Alliance Dominion War Campaign is by far my personal favorite campaign-style game.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 1QH2JgykiZ8 Ryan and Bethany Board Game Reviews Top 10 List at 3:42 sentiment: positive

video_pk 90289 · mention_pk 241060

Click to watch at 3:42 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

building up a towered settlement
island city-building arena
abstract

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Tile Placement — Players place pieces to build levels; reach the top without being blocked.
Tile-placement / 3D building — Players place pieces to build levels; reach the top without being blocked.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

these are the ten absolute ones that we would, if we saw it out, run to that table and play it because we were that much intrigued by these games for whatever reason
color me intrigued
it's a two-player game
I personally am not putting any of those on there because they all seemed exciting to me

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video E2I2JfN6w34 Allies or Enemies Top 100 List at 5:12 sentiment: positive

video_pk 90240 · mention_pk 240820

Click to watch at 5:12 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Beautiful 3D aesthetic
Fast and tense head-to-head play

Cons

Balancing issues with some gods (debated)

Thematic elements

Abstract strategy with god powers
Mythical Greek island with gods
short, strategic

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Abstract strategy / area denial — Two-player competitive gameplay with asymmetric god powers.
Asymmetric Player Powers — Two-player competitive gameplay with asymmetric god powers.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

and this is how we're doing it
these are just at this current period of time
it's not the top 100 games that are out there these are just the 100 games that we're enjoying playing right now
feel free to share your list as we go through we would love to see it
it's almost guaranteed to fail like your ship gets torn apart
it's mean but no one gets their feelings here because it's so obviously mean and it's so like fun mean

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video pNctGeuFzwY Nights Around a Table Discussion at 3:52:37 sentiment: negative

video_pk 90251 · mention_pk 240883

Click to watch at 3:52:37 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

negative

Pros

none

Cons

Did not like how it was taught; preferred to read the rulebook myself.
Felt the game left too much of the design and experience up to the player.

Thematic elements

Gods
Greek

Comparison games

Yin
Tores
Dominion
Dice Forge
Bander Snatch

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — A two-player abstract strategy game.
Grid Movement — Played on a grid system with levels.
Variable player powers — Players choose from a selection of gods, each with unique abilities.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I think Yin is an abstract two-player game think of reversi or th but a lot more interesting
it's the number two ranked abstract strategy on BGG right now
I'm not an abstract guy at all at all I run from abstract games
when I the first time I played Mythic Mischief against my friend Derek I I did win
I find that when people teach me games I don't like them is that weird
I kind of have to sit there and I have to be immerse myself in the rule book and read every single little curb case and Rule and exception and absorb that and process it and and teach my brain the game and then I'm excited to play it
Santorini was taught to be by a different by another person I didn't read the instructions
it kind of felt like they were leaving the design to me you know what I mean they're like yeah I don't know here's a big pile of rules you go find out what's fun I'm like well no you're the designer you tell me the prescribed experience that you want me to have
it's almost like you were playing the same game but you weren't playing within the same parameters do you know what I mean
the sifting through pictures on BGG is frustrating it's like it's like really slow and weird and it I don't know I wish I wish it was more like Google image search where it just gives you a huge like big ass array and you can just more easily grab the picture you want instead of this weird really slow moving Carousel that doesn't feel really responsive
Cosmic frog is a game of collection combat and theft on a planetary scale
each player controls a TW mile tall Immortal Invulnerable frog likee creature that exists solely to gather terrain from the shards of eth the fragments of a long ago shattered world
your frogs jump around and eat chunks of planets and then you barf them into patterns to score points
it's amazing hot damn
man it looks like an abstract strategy game when you look at that board like that what a trip

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 7Pt0Mj_tGSU All You Can Board Top 50 List at 32:58 sentiment: positive

video_pk 89967 · mention_pk 239868

Click to watch at 32:58 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Excellent abstract two-player experience with god powers

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I've absolutely adored this game.
it's basically a civilization game you have cards that you're putting out
I've absolutely loved this game and I can't wait to introduce more people to it
for sale is probably my favorite filler game of all time
Clank is a de facto eject builder
the two phases that the game has are distinct from each other but influence each other
it's a genius resource wheel
Pandemic Legacy is one of the reasons I gravitated toward legacy games
Ghost Stories is the toughest most brutal co-op I've ever played
Quacks of Quedlinburg is absolutely hilarious and fun
Key Forge is the most accessible card game out there

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 8RHG5X5nAOU All You Can Board Discussion at 13:52

video_pk 89717 · mention_pk 238760

Click to watch at 13:52 · YouTube ↗

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

No quotes stored for this video.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video el-0TjmX6p8 All You Can Board Top 10 List at 19:29 sentiment: positive

video_pk 89624 · mention_pk 238360

Click to watch at 19:29 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

great with god powers
rules are simple; lots of strategic depth

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

Calico

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

No quotes stored for this video.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video hPWYuwQJX5o Watch It Played Top 10 List at 7:33

video_pk 88649 · mention_pk 234190

Click to watch at 7:33 · YouTube ↗

Pros

Reintroduces a competitive strategy game as a cooperative puzzle.
Fascinating transformation.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Solving ancient riddles of the Sphinx

Comparison games

Santorini

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Cooperative expansion — Adapts the competitive experience into an ongoing adventure comprised of a series of scenarios called riddles.
scenario-based play — Players navigate a series of scenarios called riddles together.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

First he puts the channel 47000 in debt and now this.
Hi there well if you're watching this message you know it can really only mean one thing I am dead serious about finding a way to earn back the forty seven thousand dollars in debt minus ten dollars for lunch that Watcher played recently incurred somehow very mysteriously it's impossible really to know how it happened and then nobody can really be held accountable regardless my quest towards regaining our Channel's Financial stability begins now.
My Hope Is that disneylocano will be a great game with a similar feel to Magic the Gathering that may be a tall order but even if it comes close I mean Marvel snaps show me that there's room in my life for more lifestyle type games and the game with potentially a lower barrier to entry something I can certainly get on board with.
They said that I was a fool to search for it they said it was impossible but after exploring far and wide I have just discovered the long hidden land free of any human presence filled with Priceless discoveries never encountered before.
It made me realize that sometimes you have to sacrifice something you love in order to save it and that's why as my final Act while still in charge I saved watch it played by sacrificing it and selling it to another company.
Say hello to watch it played new parent company party lemmings media Holdings Incorporated.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video JPEMsfPOd9I Get into games Interview at 45:32 sentiment: positive

video_pk 86451 · mention_pk 223648

Click to watch at 45:32 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

highly accessible abstract strategy
great for family play and quick rounds

Cons

may feel simple for experienced gamers

Thematic elements

Array

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is a glorious day because we have our friends here.
Beanie's first campaign and Mommy's first campaign and Daddy's first campaign.
Don't be precious about it.
It's never going to happen; life is what happens when you're busy making plans.
Get into games on air; Rent Shuffle and Roll at rentshuffleandroll.co.uk with code gg50.
Learning through board games—sharing, planning, flexibility, and teamwork.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video x8egULH_65w Where There's A Wilz, There's a Play Top 10 List at 24:52 sentiment: positive

video_pk 85753 · mention_pk 220456

Click to watch at 24:52 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

easy to teach
highly accessible for newcomers and veterans

Cons

can feel simple to experienced players

Thematic elements

abstract strategy with asymmetric powers
Mythic island tower-building
thematic minimal

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Asymmetric Player Powers — each player has unique powers; build towers and block opponents
two-player asymmetric strategy — each player has unique powers; build towers and block opponents

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I highly recommend it.
It plays exactly the same as Ticket to Ride as far as your cards go and claiming routes.
This is a really fun tile-laying game.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video H6LmbyTlrok Grant Lyon Top 10 List at 31:45 sentiment: positive

video_pk 85669 · mention_pk 220170

Click to watch at 31:45 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

reliable, quick-playing abstract with strong components
god-pairing variety adds replayability

Cons

none

Thematic elements

mythic gods and god-like powers
abstract strategy on terraformed Greek islands
educational/experimental

Comparison games

Santorini

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

god powers — 32 gods in the retail edition give players special powers for varied strategies.
two-player head-to-head (can be four players team-up) — Core race to reach the top by stacking level-building blocks.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I am an optimistic person. So I think we will figure this out.
Happy gaming out there. Grant with GrantsGameres.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video QBrz8a-zO2A Watch It Played Top 10 List at 14:32 sentiment: positive

video_pk 85568 · mention_pk 219594

Click to watch at 14:32 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Adds a cooperative twist and campaign progression to a beloved abstract game.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

abstract strategy with god powers and puzzle-like riddles
Santorini tower setting with gods and campaign-style riddles
campaign-style progression with tactical riddles

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract_stratagy — Core Santorini base remains abstract while expanded with campaign elements.
campaign/scenario-based — Series of scenarios called riddles to progress the campaign.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's time now to walk through the most famed geisha street, Hannah Makoji.
And this really is an engine.
Little Tavern's great. There's randomness to it. There's a lot of take that and a lot of silliness, but it really does just go over well.
It's one of the alltime classic two player card games.
There’s a great balance to be had just like a just like a good cup of coffee.
Sea of Legends is one of those very app-driven games. It's fully app-driven.
Riddle of the Sphinx expands Santorini into a cooperative campaign with riddles.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video BnRPjFsjALw Foster the Meeple Discussion at 27:24 sentiment: positive

video_pk 85587 · mention_pk 219705

Click to watch at 27:24 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

Positive

Pros

Extremely competitive
Very mean gameplay
Great for two players

Cons

Can be very mean

Thematic elements

Abstract strategy
Santorini

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — This is a two-player only abstract strategy game.
Area Control — You're trying to get to the top of one
building — you're trying to build up these build buildings and you're trying to put caps on them.
Movement — you're moving your little figure, then you're building. You can move up.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Survival of the fittest, baby. It is what it is.
you need to win. you need to defeat everybody else and it is not a nice game
Root is a very mean game because it does have kingmaking which is very mean and also very competitive
It's so freaking cute.
because what's more whimsical than a cafe where cappy bars are serving you?
I think Get Bit is not loved enough.
Phenomenal game. Phenomenal solo trick taking. Amazing.
It is meant to be a mindful activity for solo players.
you can play it so many times in a row, you will never get sick of it.
It's a great game for me time.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video jFVhGNkeHRM Board Gaming Ramblings Other at 16:11

video_pk 85451 · mention_pk 219015

Click to watch at 16:11 · YouTube ↗

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Building blocks with workers

Comparison games

Taurus

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Block building — Build a block with your moved worker.
worker movement — Move one of your workers. You can move up a maximum of one level.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I'm going to read the text on the back of the box.
Johannes is going to be blindfolded so he doesn't see what games I've chosen.
As you know, Earth has exhausted its resources and we need to act now to preserve the future of humanity.
It prides itself upon being the first in Middle Europe to cultivate hops.
I have invented a time machine.
Good news, you invented time travel. The bad news, someone is going to murder you and steal your invention.
The oldest and strongest tree it would tree tree in the world has become the symbol of a new method for building cities in symbiosis with nature.
For centuries, sails have ruled the seas, but for now the steam engine is beginning to dominate.
It's fun to like because you think about games in a different way. Like you have to like rummage around in your brain to see like, okay, do can I connect this to something?

References (from this video)

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Video jnkwqUo7f_4 The Cardboard Herald Discussion at 51:52 sentiment: other

video_pk 85100 · mention_pk 217449

Click to watch at 51:52 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

Clever and accessible, but raises questions about skill ceiling.

Pros

Clever game
Smart game
Accessible to kids
Provides advantage to those with good spatial reasoning

Cons

Skill ceiling is questioned
May not attract professional players

Thematic elements

none

Comparison games

Chess

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — These games hunger at being abstract, super pristinely polished duelers.
Area Control — The player who gets their builder to the third level first wins.
Grid Movement — Players move their builders on a grid.
Variable player powers — Players choose different gods with unique abilities.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I think that there are a lot of games that even if they're not built specifically for two players, the draw to play those games that was there at four players or three players is still there at two players.
I think that some parts of Aries expedition becomes a lot stronger at two players than it does at three or four players.
I have my sandbox, you have your sandbox. This can be great at two players.
Well, let me tell you, nothing is going to create a marital uh battle like someone not being entirely focused on a game of sale.
I can kind of be doing something else while playing.
So to me, Ark Nova is ideal for two players.
Peak Spirit Island is two-player or two spirit if you're playing solo and you have uh and you want to do double-handed
However, it's too bigrain for me to feel like I'm up for that.
I just like them at two players. You know, I don't need the extra player count. That's the right amount of opposition that I need for those.

References (from this video)

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Video UJFbl_lQarQ One Stop Co-op Shop Rules Teach at 0:02 sentiment: positive

video_pk 84645 · mention_pk 215232

Click to watch at 0:02 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Fast-paced gameplay
God cards drastically change gameplay
Expansions add significant variety and game modes
Solo co-op mode is replayable and challenging
Introduces new mechanics like bridges and blessing tokens in later puzzles

Cons

Can be difficult to use certain god powers effectively (as demonstrated in solo play)
Godlike difficulty in solo mode is extremely challenging

Thematic elements

abstract

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

action selection — In solo play, players choose an action (move/build with a specific color worker, select a god, play the Sphinx's game) and cannot use the same action twice in a row.
Area Control — Winning is achieved by moving a worker to a level three building. Players can also block opponents by building 'domes' which cap spaces.
building — Players build structures adjacent to their workers, with buildings having up to three levels. Building can be orthogonal or diagonal.
Drafting — Mentioned as a way to play once players know the game, where players draft god cards.
Press Your Luck — The Sphinx's game involves rolling a die where repeated rolls of the same color can lead to losing workers, introducing a press-your-luck element.
Resource Management — Players have a limited supply of building pieces, especially highlighted in the solo mode where starting pieces can vary based on difficulty.
Set Collection — In the solo mode, players aim to complete objectives by building towers of indicated levels to collect silver, gold, heroic, and godlike coins.
Variable Player Powers (God Cards) — God cards grant players special abilities that can alter movement or building actions, drastically changing the basic gameplay.
worker movement — Players pick one of their workers and move them one space orthogonally or diagonally, with restrictions on level changes and occupying the same space.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Hey everybody, this is Mike with OneTop Co-op Shop...
...consider supporting us through Patreon.
But very quickly, you get to add in these god and goddess and hero and monster cards that'll give the player who controls them a special power.
This is not a pure puzzle game. It's actually very replayable.
And that's really going to be the key to having enough blocks to actually winning, leveraging the god or goddess powers and fulfilling their quest to get what you need.
And then you get to claim the final coin with at least one unclaimed god in the queue.
It's been so tough in the other games I've played.
I got my first godlike. Heck yeah.
So that's it. A little taste of Santorini, both competitive and cooperative.
I should have a review of this one coming pretty soon...

References (from this video)

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Video 0xiyHVL6FMc Tim Chuon Discussion at 0:28 sentiment: neutral

video_pk 84479 · mention_pk 214665

Click to watch at 0:28 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

neutral

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

abstract strategy of moving workers and building upward on a grid
A stylized Greek island city built with multi-level towers
classic abstract with aesthetic Mediterranean flavor

Comparison games

Flamecraft

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Area Control — tactical placement and blocking to gain the strategic advantage and win condition
area control / positioning — tactical placement and blocking to gain the strategic advantage and win condition
building — after moving, a player builds a level on an adjacent space; players compete to reach a height of three or block opponents
Movement — each player moves a worker to an adjacent space on the grid

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Fountain surprised me a ton. Super excited about this game.
This is nothing like Flamecraft.
If you made it to the very end, go ahead and comment Lily for all the cool little pads that we're scoring at the end of fountains.

References (from this video)

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Video 7ai02jZrhvA Where There's A Wilz, There's a Play Analysis at 3:50 sentiment: positive

video_pk 82080 · mention_pk 206024

Click to watch at 3:50 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Classic two-player abstract with tight play
Clear rules and elegant movement restrictions

Cons

May feel too abstract for players seeking thematic depth

Thematic elements

myth-inspired construction
abstract landscape; two players build and move
abstract strategy

Comparison games

Hanamikoji
Three Sisters
Everdell

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — Players move builders and stack towers to trap opponents

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Everdell is one of my favorite worker placement games.
Everdell is moving on as the first number one seed that has actually moved on.
Three Sisters is one of my favorite rolling-right games.
Hanamikoji is a lane battler where you are placing cards down in an I cut you choose fashion.
Santorini is an abstract game.
Parks is the better game.
Hot Streak is moving on.
Harmonies is the Cascadia Killer, but Cascadia I like more.
Junk Art is pulling up the upset and I really, really like Junk Art.
Calico is not my favorite; Cascadia I like more than Calico.
Long Shot is a roll and ride where you're betting on horses.
Sprawlopolis is a buttonshy game where you try to build the best city.
Azul Summer Pavilion is my number one Azul game.
Small World is an area control game with variable beings.

References (from this video)

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Video sx1hPU02l78 One Stop Co-op Shop Discussion at 6:28 sentiment: positive

video_pk 82024 · mention_pk 205729

Click to watch at 6:28 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Adds substantial variety and scenarios

Cons

Requires base game and expansion; can be expensive

Thematic elements

expansion-driven depth
abstract strategy with new solo/co-op options

Comparison games

Santorini (base game)

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

puzzle-like movement/building — maintains core Santorini abstract mechanic with new twists
solo/co-op expansion options — adds diverse scenarios and challenges to base Santorini

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I love the variety in the modules.
This is one of their great ones where you have tons of different factions to try out.
Santorini with the Riddle of the Sphinx expansion.
The big negative here is that Santorini by itself you got to buy; then you also have to buy the expansion and it is getting a bit expensive.
I still really like Veil of Eternity, but it didn't fit with my game groups.
Earthborne Rangers has some things that puts it above Arkham and some things that puts it below for my taste.

References (from this video)

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Video aAOhBKwxQ30 Man vs Meeple Analysis at 2:26 sentiment: positive

video_pk 81971 · mention_pk 205309

Click to watch at 2:26 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

Jaipur
Targi

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Codenames is kind of legendary.
Lord of the Rings Duel deserves to make it to the finals.
Targi has been a fan favorite of mine since the beginning.
Unmatched is one of those games that's been around for almost 10 years. I feel like it's going to be around for 10 more. Unmatched is here to stay.
Zenith is the reason I wanted to do this whole thing in the first place.
Lost Cities and Jaipur are two of those games from way back when where they were they were like the some of the first two great two-player board games.
it made me like Splendor again. Revitalized my admiration for the game.

References (from this video)

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Video OhVHuwHAgt8 Man vs Meeple Analysis at 1:32 sentiment: negative

video_pk 81859 · mention_pk 204699

Click to watch at 1:32 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

negative

Pros

none

Cons

Lost out in the poll, which was disappointing.

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Star Wars Rebellion was knocked out by Unmatched, which was kind of I would consider that a little bit of an upset.
I've read the rules. I I want to play it very badly.
for me anyway it is my favorite abstract game period hard stop end of story.
It's a great two-player game.
Whether it's this or Seven Wonders Duel, sort of its predecessor, it is one of, and obviously according to our Discord community, the best two-player game, at least of the 32 that we had in the tournament.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video boV4_W4ztuc The Dice Tower Analysis at 15:55

video_pk 81649 · mention_pk 203758

Click to watch at 15:55 · YouTube ↗

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

the nomination lists are more important than the awards because you can go out and just buy any of these and play them.
We're nominating them now, and as I always say, the nomination lists are more important than the awards because you can go out and just buy any of these and play them.
These are going to be games that are fantastic to teach to someone who is not necessarily part of our fantastic little world of games. Something to get them in the door, get them excited about board gaming, get them introduced to all these amazing things you can do on the tabletop now.
And so, we got together a group of 50 plus people, that's Dice Tower staff and the other reviewers, different reviewers, and we vote on the nominations, and so we're going to present them to you.
Well, too bad to each of those nominations because you have to go up against the other four. That is a tough slate.
if you enjoy heavy strategy games, you were eating well in 2024.
This is a category for games that play really well with two. It doesn't mean they are exclusively two, although that's usually what is nominated, but it's just a great game for two players.
This is something that for the last several, several years has become an increasingly large segment of the board gaming hobby.
Not only are those like pretty strong solo games, but they're also some of the games that were mentioned in top lists of last year. That shows where the category has come.
So, these are games that do something different. We see a lot of the same stuff, which isn't necessarily a bad thing because same can be good and comforting. But, something that does something unusual or different or feels fresh, here's some games that meet that category.
My goodness, you now have to ask every time you sit at the table, 'Wait, is this cooperative or competitive?' That's something that was unheard of, you know, a decade ago even.
I used to not really appreciate how good party games can be.
So, this is going to be just that implementation of the theme, really immersing you into this world and this setting, uh doing something cool, or maybe just showing you a different kind of light on a thing that you're familiar with.
I always find it odd how the new designer category often also every year seems to dominate best games of the year category, and I like that a lot.
Artwork is something that just walking by a table, you can convince me to play a game just by showing me a good box cover. And I think that it's something that can We talked about the theme, can really sell that, but it's that first entry point in the game, and can grab your attention.
Games are a total production, and what this category is about is saying, 'This is the most impressive full productions of a board game we've seen this year.'
Now, in this category, we have 10 um 10 nominees, and they kind of encompass the whole package here. You know, we're we're looking at the mechanisms, we're looking at the theme, we're looking at the artwork, just all of it. Which one brought its best to the table?
Games that are fantastic
Then our next one is Codenames, a game that really brought party games back into the light, especially word team party games.
This has sold a gazillion copies.
And that is Pandemic Legacy Season 1.
But this is the game. It wasn't the first legacy game, but it was definitely the one that people that kind of exploded and changed
changing the landscape.
Talk about a game that truly shook everything up.

References (from this video)

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Video Jjch5rhzzRY The Brothers Murph Top List at 18:02 sentiment: positive

video_pk 81593 · mention_pk 203404

Click to watch at 18:02 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Very simple to learn, can be taught in 5 minutes.
Playable forever due to depth and god powers.
Beautiful game with great table presence.
Excellent value, often found at a low price.
The addition of god powers greatly enhances replayability and strategy.

Cons

The base game might feel too simple for some.
The tactical nature might not appeal to all players.

Thematic elements

building structures on an island
Santorini, an island in Greece

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — A game with no theme or a very thin theme, focusing purely on strategic play.
Set Collection — Achieving a win condition by reaching the third floor of a building.
Tile Placement — Players place structure levels onto a grid.
Variable player powers — Optional 'god powers' grant players unique abilities or win conditions.
Worker Placement — Players control two workers ('builders') to move and build structures.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Bangers. All bangers.
This one was happening to be the biggest game on the list and this is going to be Heat: Pedal to the Metal.
It's just a banger.
Carcassonne. I do think Carcassonne should be in everyone's collection.
It's a classic for a reason. It's been around forever for a reason.
And that for us is just chef's kiss delicious.

References (from this video)

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Video MLP2hD4He2s BoardGameCo Unboxing at 23:05 sentiment: neutral

video_pk 81294 · mention_pk 200982

Click to watch at 23:05 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

Neutral

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Riddle

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

The sheer quantity of game here is a downside to me.
It took over two hours to punch out everything, get organized according to AR's guide.
The campaign arcs are like 15 hours.
It's a very clever way to bridge that gap between giving players tons of content while making it accessible at the same time.
Board games give you that mental satisfaction in a way that video games just don't in my opinion.
It's probably my favorite from them with the possible exception of Scoundrels.
The general feedback around Lands of Outshade was so excellent that I think it wasn't just me.
Even um Shelfside, who generally are very critical of Awaken Realms, uh they they thought it was their best game yet, and I agree with them because it is their best game yet.
If you like slaughtering hordes of zombies with tactical decisions, I do think Zombicide's a great game. I'm a big fan of it.
I like to own the things I buy.
Grim Coven is a mustplay.
The harder something is to table, the less likely I am to play it, even if I like it a lot.

References (from this video)

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Video XXiMOpQvy8s The Dice Tower Top List at 16:06 sentiment: positive

video_pk 81006 · mention_pk 199024

Click to watch at 16:06 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Strong player powers based on gods.
Large variety of god powers.
Interesting abstract gameplay.

Cons

Some find the thematic integration a bit light compared to the puzzle version.

Thematic elements

Gods granting unique player powers.
Greek mythology

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract movement — Players move pieces on a grid.
abstract strategy — The core gameplay is abstract.
Variable player powers — Each player's power is based on a god.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is heavy metal as a board game.
Almost no space of the board is more than two steps away from another space. So pressure is always on.
push your luck worker placement in a co-op game. Bizarre, but it works really well.
I think the mythological part is much stronger.
a really solid auction game. One of the best auction games there is.

References (from this video)

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Video dcYVlE6b1Nw The Board Game Garden Discussion at 5:08 sentiment: positive

video_pk 80653 · mention_pk 197017

Click to watch at 5:08 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Fun daily puzzle
Provides a nice morning ritual

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Daily date puzzle

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

polyomino puzzle — The game involves filling in a polyomino puzzle to avoid covering the current date.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

May was a very solo gaming-heavy month, which made me really happy.
I really do want to start doing solo gaming more because I just love it so much.
So, yes, definitely recommend if you want a little day-to-day fun puzzle.
This is definitely a game that broke my brain.
The new version, the art is just absolutely stunning. I cannot get over it.
The game that we had the most laughs with in the month of May is a game called Cats Pushing Things Off Shelves or something like that.
I think the folding of the pastry in this game and the placing of the polyomino tiles freaking breaks my brain every time that I have played this, and it is just such a fun satisfying puzzle that has a lot of challenge to it.
If
this game is so relaxing to me.
you are trying to create kind of empty spots in between your polyomino shapes.
absolutely gorgeous game, very satisfying.
All of the different like flowers and stuff on the tiles have this beautiful holographic foil on them that just like makes them shine.
this game is from a smaller indie publisher and this is a game that more people need to experience, more people need to play.
it is a hand management game where you're going to have specific customers that are going to need specific numbers uh and also specific kind of suits and you're going to be playing cards from your hand as well as from this table in front of you in order to serve those customers
this game comes with like unlockable boxes, which I haven't even unlocked all of the ones that came in this prototype.
I think this game is absolutely fantastic and definitely needs all the love.

References (from this video)

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Video HHcBpGMGKts Neon Gorilla Interview at 1:26:40 sentiment: positive

video_pk 80505 · mention_pk 195977

Click to watch at 1:26:40 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

Highly Positive

Pros

Greatest two-player game
Perfect abstract game
Appealing asymmetry
Beautiful production
Most played board game

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Abstract strategy
Greek islands

Comparison games

Chess
Riddle Sphinx

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — A pure strategy game with minimal theme.
Build and Move — Players build structures and move their builders.
Variable player powers — The god powers provide unique abilities.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It is so chaotic. It is so fun.
Is it balanced? Absolutely not. And that is half the fun.
I think the action programming is super unique in board games in general, but also done really well here.
I have a feeling pro uh Grim Coven is going to be my top 10.
Grim Coven is incredible. Yeah, it is. It It really is. Not cozy either.
Oh my god, they're so cool. Yeah, the artwork is just such a uh just amazing.
It may and most likely will replace primal for me uh as my favorite uh boss valer.
Why do we like board games so much? Um, because they're fun, because they're relaxing, they're enjoyable, you're spending time with people, you're spending time with yourselves.

References (from this video)

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Video Nr6eiw27DNM Where There's A Wilz, There's a Play Discussion at 6:48 sentiment: positive

video_pk 80185 · mention_pk 194733

Click to watch at 6:48 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Really like that one.
A lot of fun.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Helping birds celebrate a festival and get back into their flocks to find their way home.

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

card shedding — Players try to get rid of cards.
Hand Management — Players cannot change the order of cards in their hand.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

KidsStable Board Gaming or K KTBG.
Creature Comforts is a dice and worker placement game with a really interesting mechanism where you have um family dice and you have village dice.
Layers is battleship for adults kind of um with a dungeon crawl aspect.
I think this is not talked about enough. I don't think this gets enough credit in the gaming world.
Positive player interaction.

References (from this video)

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Video YuGtl0r7tNQ Where There's A Wilz, There's a Play Review at 22:37 sentiment: positive

video_pk 80079 · mention_pk 194309

Click to watch at 22:37 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Absolutely love this.
The wave mechanism is the coolest thing about this game.
The components are fine. They're they're tiles. They're they're cardboard tiles. They are no different than most cardboard tiles.

Cons

When it came out, there was a lot of things about component quality. I'm not sure where that's coming from.

Thematic elements

Collecting seashells.
Beach

Comparison games

Parks
Patchwork

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Movement — Moving down one way on the beach to the lighthouse. Then you move back.
Set Collection — Collecting seashells and trying to get the most points based on how you group them.
tile laying — Collecting seashells and putting them on your mat.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

My number five is just a silly wheelie card game that just makes your mind go because you're used to doing one thing but you got to say another thing.
It's a lot of giggles and laughs as well.
This is a nice cozy game.
Absolutely love this.
This is my number one polyomino game of all time and cartographers which is my number one flipping right game of all time and number two overall action right game of all time.

References (from this video)

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Video sO57nnv3H68 Top List at 10:42 sentiment: positive

video_pk 79860 · mention_pk 193439

Click to watch at 10:42 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Beautiful 3D towers
Simple rules, easy to teach
High strategic depth
Variable god powers keep it fresh
Blends accessibility and tactical thinking

Cons

Host's wife hates it, limiting play opportunities.

Thematic elements

Building and moving on an island
The island of Santorini

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Area Control — Players move workers and build structures to control areas.
building — Players construct towers on the board.
Variable player powers — Uses 'god powers' that give players unique abilities.
Worker Placement — Players move their workers to different locations to perform actions.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I'm going to give you my top 10 casual games, but nothing on my strategy game list can make it on this one, which makes me a little bit sad.
It's so strategic this game. So strategic and but it's also casual. See? See what I did? It's strategy and casual. Both of them in here. It's okay. I'm all right. I'll live with it.
Those aren't opposites. I mean, something could be strategic and casual.
The rules are simple enough for anyone to grasp, right?
This is a very elegant martial arts duel with simple rules and the players are going to share the movement cards and you're it's a constantly changing puzzle.
I refuse to put this on the strategy list because the str it's not difficult to play.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video h1-Er4PD0DE Review at 49:16 sentiment: positive

video_pk 79610 · mention_pk 193144

Click to watch at 49:16 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Gorgeous presentation and components.
Deep strategic gameplay with a chess-like feel.
God powers add replayability and variation.
Plays up to four players, though often seen as 1v1.
Expansions add player modules and more god powers.

Cons

Some god powers might not be liked.
The Pantheon Edition has no major changes to gameplay.

Thematic elements

Island of Santorini

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — Players move their pieces and build structures on a grid.
Asymmetric powers — Players are given random God cards at the start of each game, granting unique abilities.
Grid Movement — Movement occurs on a grid of buildings.
Player Elimination — The goal is to reach the third level of a structure and jump on top, or block opponents from doing so.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

We don't come to this show with our intro like what can we talk about this time? Literally a lot of the topics we talk about are what we sit around and talk about during game night.
If you've played Undaunted it's going to feel very familiar
The point is what if you're not familiar with Undaunted, will people like it? You know, I I think so because of how streamline and fast it plays where Undaunted can drag.
I was really surprised at how good this game is. when you just look at it on the table, you think this is just like a colorful kids game.
This is probably one of the most convoluted victory scoring systems I've seen in a while.
Man, this is one of those games that just totally surprised me and how much I like the co-op thing.
It's honestly was just one of the best games I have played in a very long time.
The acting is incredible.
My game of the year by far.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video h1-Er4PD0DE Review at 51:45 sentiment: positive

video_pk 79610 · mention_pk 193145

Click to watch at 51:45 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Successfully transforms the Santorini abstract game into a cooperative campaign.
Deep and engaging campaign with a story that unfolds.
Strategic cooperation is key to success.
High production quality from Roxley.
Introduces interesting mechanics like limited resources and push-your-luck elements.
The 'skill tree' or constellation page for unlocking gods is a neat progression system.

Cons

The tutorial is only for two people.
Can be challenging, potentially requiring resets.
If two workers die, it's game over.

Thematic elements

Santorini universe
Campaign-based story

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

action selection — Players choose between moving and building or claiming a god power.
Campaign play — The game unfolds over a series of linked scenarios with a developing story.
cooperative play — Players work together to achieve game objectives.
Push Your Luck — Dice rolls for bonuses introduce an element of chance and risk.
Resource Management — Managing limited building tiers and other resources is crucial to completing objectives.
Worker Placement — Players manage workers, with a 'wanderer' system for different player counts.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

We don't come to this show with our intro like what can we talk about this time? Literally a lot of the topics we talk about are what we sit around and talk about during game night.
If you've played Undaunted it's going to feel very familiar
The point is what if you're not familiar with Undaunted, will people like it? You know, I I think so because of how streamline and fast it plays where Undaunted can drag.
I was really surprised at how good this game is. when you just look at it on the table, you think this is just like a colorful kids game.
This is probably one of the most convoluted victory scoring systems I've seen in a while.
Man, this is one of those games that just totally surprised me and how much I like the co-op thing.
It's honestly was just one of the best games I have played in a very long time.
The acting is incredible.
My game of the year by far.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video YJqiNnqJnpk Top List at 6:25 sentiment: positive

video_pk 78287 · mention_pk 190697

Click to watch at 6:25 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Favorite pure abstract game
Fun visually and mechanically
God cards make it feel different each time

Cons

none

Thematic elements

abstract

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — pure abstract game
Variable player powers — with the various god cards that you can have in this game to make it uh feel different every time

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

I really liked how uh bombastic the cards get in allowing you to do, you know, things on your own board and how to explore it.
Uh especially with the military aspect and, you know, creating or increasing the military might that you have to um impose on other opponents and when these battles really made our games uh come down to these in addition to uh the just straight-up deck building and um you know, playing cards from your hands and worker placement aspects that has a lot of good mechanisms that I enjoy.
This game I really enjoyed for the theme. I like the the thematic story and the arc of this game where the plague gets pretty bad uh during the game, uh but then slowly as you start to unders- or, you know, uh combat the disease, you start to uh rely less and less on taking out the plague and more and more coming back to repopulate Messina.
it's still a game that is is tough for me to play sometimes just because um you know, I if I think I know what is going on with the strategy of this game and and and you know, the the more that I have to learn from it and so it kind of deterred me from playing it more
But yeah, uh as as bland as it looks, it's actually really fun order fulfillment game.
Um it's not as deep or complex as Magic or Hearthstone or some of the other card games are, but it probably will get to that point at some at some point.
I wish that the meta game was more diverse. It hasn't been so since the start of the game.
And Wingspan for me, while it's a masterpiece of of a design um in my opinion, I really was really drawn to all of the birds and the individuality of these cards.
It does take a while to play, I think if you're playing with new people, which was kind of a deterrent for me for bringing this game out more often.
So, this is one of the latest Uwe Rosenberg games back in 2022, one of my favorite games. One for the solo version of this game. I think that is the peak way to play this game.
And so I I hold it in high esteem.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video CORHOFpAVvw Top List at 10:42 sentiment: positive

video_pk 77717 · mention_pk 187681

Click to watch at 10:42 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Great table presence
Plays quickly
Fun head-to-head
New edition has more god powers for replayability

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Building buildings and moving meeples
Greek island Santorini

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — You are building up buildings, moving meeples around, using god powers in various different ways and trying to defeat your opponent.
two-player — Santorini is mostly a two-player game, head-to-head game where you are playing against the other player.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

This is my top 10 new to me games. These are older games that I played for the first time in 2025.
There is no right or wrong way to be in this hobby. So, yes, play new games, but also play anything you want, you know, even if they're older things.
Don't be afraid to go back and play things that you missed along the way. Don't be afraid to go back and play older games just because you've always been curious about it.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 7k94s7g0Slc Top List at 0:56 sentiment: positive

video_pk 77716 · mention_pk 187667

Click to watch at 0:56 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Fun spatial puzzle
Escalates in difficulty
Can jump into different chapters

Cons

Requires base game

Thematic elements

Puzzle

Comparison games

Santorini

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Cooperative campaign — Essentially turns the regular game of Santorini into a bit of a cooperative campaign puzzling game.
god powers — You're using god powers, but you're doing all of that to try to accomplish various objectives and goals.
Puzzle solving — Each chapter of Riddle of the Sphinx gives you a problem to solve.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Most of the time I want to play competitive, but it's really nice to have good games where you can work together and not work against each other.
Essentially turns the regular game of Santorini into a bit of a cooperative campaign puzzling game.
If you want an introduction to deduction games, I think a carnivore did it is really fun for that reason.
I like cooperative games that have real cooperation, that have real dialogue to them.
I had an epic day playing The Elder Scrolls where we were playing it for like 5 6 hours and it was awesome and it was so memorable and it is a great game.
This is essentially this game is taking the pandemic system and making a new game out of it.
You cannot communicate when you're placing cards down.
It is a cooperative polyomino tile laying game, and there aren't that many cooperative polyomino games.
It has gotten compared to The Crew, and I think the comparison is appropriate.
It is full of a bunch of dumb puns, which makes it silly and fun, too.
You know, it's one of those games where it's like you you're not guaranteed of a win in in Ham Hell Singh, which I like about cooperative games.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video IHOMe8G-l18 Discussion at 0:44 sentiment: mixed

video_pk 70432 · mention_pk 167401

Click to watch at 0:44 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

mixed

Pros

none

Cons

tends to perform less well at

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

what's a game that you always lose at but you're going to keep playing no matter what because you just love it
I lose most of them probably like most games
Abstract strategies aren't for me they're just don't click with my brain i just get too in my head about it when i play those ones i almost always lose i like it a lot but i'm not good at it
my wife's a kingdom builder expert my husband kicks my butt at ticket to ride i lose 66 percent of the time every single time i just lost this game this is really fun but you're still going to play ticket to ride but you're going to keep going
well everybody loses a rob as a cruiser well they're designed for you to lose
When I say Call of Cthulhu it's a lot of fun and I really enjoy like the mythos and everything but boy do I go insane very fast
Russian railroad I've been losing every time of that maybe once I get my first win I'll move on right as soon as you crack that nut that's it you're out of there

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video qs6ziBqxWx4 Meeple University Review at 39:31 sentiment: neutral

video_pk 70084 · mention_pk 241806

Click to watch at 39:31 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

neutral

Pros

It's free to play on Board Game Arena.

Cons

It's very tough with the 3D pieces.
The player can struggle with spatial rotation.

Thematic elements

Comparison games

Patchwork
Onitama

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

the idea of the game is to finish your pile first
whoever finish the pile of cards first wins the game
if you play one to your opponents out of the cards that you play you draw back up to six
if you can't put down any cards you lose the game
my mind was like because i'm not good at special rotation
break a bone and then get sympathy to get a boyfriend
it's like you don't want to because we can't communicate
it smells better than it tastes tastes it's not durian
the objective of the game is not to help your partner but to stop your partner from winning

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video ZAyZyPzsrpM Analysis at 0:02 sentiment: positive

video_pk 69304 · mention_pk 165743

Click to watch at 0:02 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Rule sheet is quick to learn.
Turntable is highly recommended.
Storage solution is cool and well-designed.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Bags — Used for storing miniatures and other components.
Building blocks — Level 1, 2, and 3 blocks and domes used for building.
God cards — Cards including base ones and from expansions.
Island board — The main board which has raised edges and a cavity on the bottom for storage.
Ocean board — An optional component used if the player doesn't want to use the rotating platform.
Player shield — A shield for one of the Gods.
Rule sheet — Described as a single sheet that lays flat and is easy to learn.
Turntable — A component that rotates, highly recommended by the host.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

if you don't play with this I'm not sure what you're doing wrong but I would recommend it highly
you hear that little magnetic snap which I love oh so much

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video ZAyZyPzsrpM Analysis at 0:08 sentiment: positive

video_pk 69304 · mention_pk 165744

Click to watch at 0:08 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Very easy to rebox.
Storage tray simplifies setup and put-away.
Magnetic closure provides a secure fit.

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Book of riddles — Contains scenarios for the game.
Bridge pieces — Pieces used to cover the secret pack.
cards — Includes base Gods, friendly Gods, blessing cards, player aids, and a solo rules card.
Rule book and Adventure book — Books containing game rules and adventure information.
Secret pack — A pack that should not be opened until instructed.
Sphinx board — A board that folds and fits into a specific slot.
Storage tray — A small tray designed to hold tokens, miniatures, and the die.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

if you don't play with this I'm not sure what you're doing wrong but I would recommend it highly
you hear that little magnetic snap which I love oh so much

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video uj-cCxk25TU Top List at 17:18 sentiment: positive

video_pk 67957 · mention_pk 164268

Click to watch at 17:18 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Beautiful production quality
Satisfying spatial puzzle
High replayability due to god powers
Elegant and deep abstract strategy

Cons

Older editions may have balance issues with god powers
Can feel less satisfying if a god power feels much stronger

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

abstract strategy — A two-player game focused on pure strategy with no thematic elements.
Area Control — Players build structures, and these structures can be used by opponents or used to block movement.
Variable player powers — Utilizes 'god powers' that give each player unique abilities.
Worker Placement — Players move workers to build structures.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Time flies when you're playing board games.
It's good to go for quality over quantity, right?
This game just has pressure in terms of it doesn't take long for an area to be gone.
This might be my favorite like abstract head-to-head game.
The championship system adds significant depth and interest beyond the base game.
It really leans into failing skill checks.
This is a party game that I had only played once before this.
it's just so fun to be in a game like that where everybody's trying, but it's also just like so hilarious.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video HOnGem6MIy4 Analysis at 6:26

video_pk 67331 · mention_pk 163308

Click to watch at 6:26 · YouTube ↗

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

It's just going to be the winner of this tournament because we've done some randomization here with some of the games that we've matched up.
kind of a popularity contest each time.
there I don't think there is a single pairing where to me it's just an obvious choice. These are all going to be tough choices.
Again, they're all two player games, so we won't belabor it by telling you that every single time.
I don't mind stepping my foot on the scales as much as I possibly can, as much as you even care, but come on, Quarto.
I do love Crokinole, but It would have been too easy he thinks if Crokinole was on the list. Clear winner.
Maybe my favorite two player game. So, I mean, I it is my probably my favorite
It is addictive. Once I started playing it, I just kept playing it.
It's so good.
It is like one of the greatest two-player game experiences.
If you don't know what Zenith is, give Zenith a try.
This is a toss-up. This is going to be a jump ball for sure.
If there's a game that I think more unanimously will get uh votes other than War of the Ring, it might be Star Wars Rebellion.
Boop is so well loved that I think Pagan might have a uphill battle, but Pagan is a little newer.
Splendor Duel is worth trying for sure.
It is such a great two-player game.
Fugitive is probably uh even more so than Pagan my pick for like two-player deduction
Twilight Struggle I think was number one for for years. Like you forever. Like for a very very long time.
Lost Cities. People that have been in the hobby long enough at this point.
Make sure everyone has fun at the table
We are going to do a bracketed tournament for two player games culminating in not what I would say, it's not going to be the best two player game necessarily. It could be. It might be, but it's just going to be the winner of this tournament because we've done some randomization here with some of the games that we've matched up
You can fill out your own brackets, but you are also going to be picking the winners cuz we're going to be running polls on our Discord for each and every match up so that it's I mean, for lack of a better way of putting it, kind of a popularity contest each time.
I think Twilight Struggle was the game that popularized the two-player experience, at least as far as I'm concerned.
Oh, for a long time. Forever.
it is what a lot of people think of when you say when you say, 'Name a two-player game.' Lost Cities.
These These do have the the downside of being a little older games.
go to our Discord cuz as you're watching this right now, you can go to our Discord and go to the two-player March Madness channel on Discord. You'll be able to download the brackets. You'll be able to participate in all the polls that we're doing there.

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video HRWXV-0D5ss Allies Are Enemies Top 10 List at 8:10 sentiment: positive

video_pk 65804 · mention_pk 159623

Click to watch at 8:10 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

beautiful production
high replayability due to god powers
tight, elegant mechanics for a micro-genre

Cons

theme is light for some players
pacing can be slower with certain gods

Thematic elements

abstract strategy with god-powered asymmetry
Greek island of Santorini
puzzle-like, highly themed through gods

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

asymmetric god powers — dozens of god powers dramatically alter gameplay each game
Asymmetric Player Powers — dozens of god powers dramatically alter gameplay each game
ephemeral, tactile components — 3D building blocks create a visually striking board
Layer Building — 3D building blocks create a visually striking board
worker movement — players move a worker and build a structure; the goal is to reach the third level

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

these are 10 new games that won't be on that list.
it's not necessarily like these have to be your very first game.
you reach into a bag and you grab a tile.
it's just mean. Every single thing you do is mean.
meanest thing you could do in a board game
this is my current favorite game of all time and it is a cooperative game

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video tcLbxnlsMK8 Game Night Picks - Pair Of Dice Paradise Discussion at 1:19

video_pk 65546 · mention_pk 159247

Click to watch at 1:19 · YouTube ↗

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

there's a few things more satisfying than telling someone your hobby is tabletop gaming and getting raised eyebrows that look to say that's a hobby then introducing them to modern board gaming and waiting for that moment when they say oh that was fun let's play again
my gateway introductory go-to game has been camel up
that was actually such a proud moment as a gamer having a game that I introduced to someone that they in turn then wanted to introduce to someone else and that other person enjoyed it so much that they asked to keep the copy of it
the mechanism where the camels stack on top of each other or underneath and whoever camels on top is actually in the lead it can lead to some moments of oh interesting when you're playing
Catan Carcassonne tickets ride and Dominion they teach virtually all the mechanisms you play those and you can play anything
it really depends on the person that you're trying to get to play board games do they play any kind of games you know video games RPGs card games if yes try to build on that and find the right game for them
pushing a game on to someone who's not interested in it is not going to do as much to help introduce them to the Hobby in a good way as kind of finding out where they're coming from

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video 5b3RXpou9tw Getting Games Playthrough at 0:04 sentiment: positive

video_pk 63622 · mention_pk 157094

Click to watch at 0:04 · YouTube ↗

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

Beautiful production value and 3D components
Variety of gods with asymmetric powers adds depth and replayability
Core rules are simple with deep strategic decisions
Short play sessions (5-15 minutes) with high tactical engagement

Cons

Depth may not be immediately evident; unclear how deep the game gets

Thematic elements

asymmetric god powers affecting movement and building
an island in the middle of the ocean
asymmetric power-driven abstract strategy

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

building — Players place a building block adjacent to the moved builder.
Domes — Domes on third-level buildings prevent others from winning on that space.
god powers — Each player has a god with a special ability that modifies turn rules (e.g., Artemis moves twice before build; Demeter can build twice in different spots).
Height progression — Buildings can have up to three levels; reaching the third level and having a builder on it wins.
Movement — Builders move orthogonally or diagonally.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

it's just a beautiful looking game
the production value that they have going on is great
I really like the kind of multiple layers that are going on there
it's gonna be a very tall three-dimensional experience
the game is a simple game
short play sessions (5 to 15 minutes)

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Video vjxxEuoCKkI All You Can Board Top List sentiment: positive

video_pk 62910 · mention_pk 155841

Overall sentiment (raw)

positive

Pros

none

Cons

none

Thematic elements

abstract competition with god powers
Greek island of Santorini; towers and domes

Comparison games

none

Mechanics (from transcript analysis)

Mechanics unknown.

Video topics + discussion points

No key topics recorded for this video.

Quotes (from this video)

Stellar is not a super well-known, well-talked-about game. I found it randomly in a local board game store.
it's basically a two-player only game, asymmetric
Lost Cities is a hand management game
Patchwork is a tight, solid Uwe Rosenberg design
Santorini is my favorite abstract game
Castles of Burgundy... there's nothing like it for me in two-player
Race for the Galaxy is my number two two-player game of all time

References (from this video)

No references stored for this video.

Santorini

Santorini in about 3 minutes

Santorini: Riddle Of The Sphinx - How To Play

Santorini: Riddle of the Sphinx - Kickstarter Playthough

Lands of Evershade All In - Live Unboxing & Rambling

Santorini

Santorini in about 3 minutes

Santorini: Riddle Of The Sphinx - How To Play

Santorini: Riddle of the Sphinx - Kickstarter Playthough

Lands of Evershade All In - Live Unboxing & Rambling

Welcome Friend

Create a New Guild