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Takenoko box art

Takenoko

Game ID: GID0313535
Game Info
Year
2011
Players
2-4
Age
8+
Playtime
45 min
Collection
Ratings
Mechanic profile
Percentile rank vs. all games
Vibe profile
How this game feels to play
Description

A long time ago at the Japanese Imperial court, the Chinese Emperor offered a giant panda bear as a symbol of peace to the Japanese Emperor. Since then, the Japanese Emperor has entrusted his court members (the players) with the difficult task of caring for the animal by tending to his bamboo garden.

In Takenoko, the players will cultivate land plots, irrigate them, and grow one of the three species of bamboo (Green, Yellow, and Pink) with the help of the Imperial gardener to maintain this bamboo garden. They will have to bear with the immoderate hunger of this sacred animal for the juicy and tender bamboo. The player who manages his land plots best, growing the most bamboo while feeding the delicate appetite of the panda, will win the game.

Description

A long time ago at the Japanese Imperial court, the Chinese Emperor offered a giant panda bear as a symbol of peace to the Japanese Emperor. Since then, the Japanese Emperor has entrusted his court members (the players) with the difficult task of caring for the animal by tending to his bamboo garden.

In Takenoko, the players will cultivate land plots, irrigate them, and grow one of the three species of bamboo (Green, Yellow, and Pink) with the help of the Imperial gardener to maintain this bamboo garden. They will have to bear with the immoderate hunger of this sacred animal for the juicy and tender bamboo. The player who manages his land plots best, growing the most bamboo while feeding the delicate appetite of the panda, will win the game.

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Rules Teach
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Takenoko - Game Play 3

Watch It Played Jun 13, 2026
Playthrough
Takenoko - Game Play 4

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Ask a Rules Question
All mentions
Browse transcript mentions, sentiments, pros/cons, mechanics, topics, quotes, and references.
Total mentions: 70
This page: 50
Sentiment: pos 37 · mix 2 · neu 0 · neg 0
Mentions per page
Showing 1–50 of 70
Video JiE8tV0fM-I Top List at 11:30 sentiment: positive
video_pk 134306 · mention_pk 383032
Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 11:30 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • Gardening with a Panda
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Objective Fulfillment — Players aim to complete secret objective cards.
  • Tile Placement — Players place tiles to create the garden.
  • Worker placement (implied) — Involves moving the gardener and panda.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • 95% of that though it was the chat yes in our live stream that kept making Yak jokes and it was I have so much fun the funniest moment of my entire life I swear
  • The only game that when we live stream play it I laugh so hard I think I pee my pant
  • it's very simple it it's basically 4x4 and you have three different color set you have the uh base one at Four Corner each player choose your own color you pick up and then you drop it when you go as long as you have four of your color in one line you won
  • I think I think this is my only complaint with the tiny epic games is that I think they're great games I just don't know why they have to be tiny
  • The auctioning is the game wow
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video Icc07BftOOI Board Game Sanctuary Top List at 11:02 sentiment: positive
video_pk 110898 · mention_pk 319149
Board Game Sanctuary - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 11:02 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Gorgeously crafted gateway game with a beautiful theme and table presence.
  • Satisfying to build patterns and grow bamboo.
  • Interesting interplay between cooperative garden planning and secret objectives.
  • Chibis expansion adds extra bonuses and new tiles.
Cons
  • Players' secret objectives can inadvertently get in the way of other players' plans.
Thematic elements
  • Gardeners tending to the royal garden and keeping a panda happy.
  • Japanese Imperial Garden
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • action selection — Players will take two actions.
  • Dice Rolling — Each turn players will gain the bonus roll on the weather die.
  • Set Collection — Draw objective cards to complete which is the primary way of scoring victory points.
  • Tile Placement — Draw and place plot tiles.
  • worker movement — Move the gardener to grow bamboo.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Board games are really great way of transporting people to those locations that we really love without leaving the comfort of your home.
  • I really like how the game exploits the i-split you choose mechanism exceptionally well.
  • The intricacies that are interwoven in a game of Iki have surpassed all of my expectations.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video YYOGJmZESA4 Board Game Sanctuary Review at 0:00 sentiment: positive
video_pk 109937 · mention_pk 316281
Board Game Sanctuary - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Satisfying eating and growing aspects.
  • Visually appealing.
  • Good amount of light strategic depth.
  • Players work on a common, evolving board where they can both hinder and help opponents.
  • Diversified range of objectives keeps the game fresh.
  • Easy to learn, teach, and pick up, making it accessible for families and non-gamers.
Cons
  • Difficult to figure out opponents' objectives as they are kept hidden.
  • Element of luck from card draws, tile draws, and die rolls can affect the outcome.
  • Some objective cards feel easier to complete than others, leading players to gravitate towards them.
  • Value point distribution on cards seems unbalanced.
  • The base game can be difficult to figure out what opponents are doing because objective cards are hidden.
Thematic elements
  • Cultivating plots of land, irrigating them, and growing different species of bamboo while keeping the Emperor's panda happy.
  • Japan
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • action selection — On a player's turn, they draw a weather die, resolve its effect, and then perform two out of five available actions using action chips.
  • Bamboo Growth — Bamboo grows on irrigated plots, with one shoot per tile. Fertilizers double the growth rate.
  • Irrigation — Plots are irrigated if they are adjacent to the main pond, an irrigation channel, or have a watershed improvement. Irrigation channels are purchased and stored.
  • Objective Fulfillment — Players complete healing objectives to gain the Emperor's favor and victory points. Objective cards are drawn from piles.
  • Set Collection — Part of fulfilling objectives involves collecting specific bamboo colors or combinations.
  • Tile Placement — Garden plots are represented by hexagonal shaped tiles that are placed and expanded.
  • Weather effects — A weather die roll introduces effects like gaining an extra action, placing bamboo, making identical actions, moving the panda, or using an improvement chip.
  • worker movement — The gardener and panda move in straight lines. The gardener grows bamboo, and the panda consumes it.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • so taking Becca is essentially a board game where players work for the Japanese Emperor cultivating plots of land irrigating them with irrigation channels and growing different species of bamboo whilst keeping his panda happy
  • Tekin no girl means bamboo sprout in take a no go plays it up the role of Japanese called nemesis they buy to complete healing objectives in order to gain the favor of the Emperor the catchy is that all plans are working in a common shared God building it together as they go
  • I love the accessibility and simplicity of the game for families and non gamers alike it's very easy to learn easy to teach and easy to pick up
  • the base game is further elevated by the introduction of the chibis expansion and once I introduce place at a Conoco I definitely also introduce these new elements the chibis expansion takes taken over the in an elevator to another level
  • this is a game that I definitely love playing again and again despite some of its minor flaws
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 8s_-00xJ4Xs Board Game Sanctuary Analysis at 21:22
video_pk 109942 · mention_pk 316313
Board Game Sanctuary - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 21:22 · YouTube ↗
Pros
  • Multiple ways to win (plot, gardener, or panda objectives) ensure players are not disadvantaged by turn order.
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • Gardening and animal care
  • Japanese garden
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Objective Fulfillment — Players can win by completing a certain number of objective cards (plot, gardener, or panda).
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • The last thing that you're probably thinking about is who is going to go first however there has been his long lasting perception that the person who goes first in a board game has a greater chance of winning which is also known as the first player advantage.
  • The first player has free choice of any of the options that are currently available at the beginning of the game and they're more likely to choose something that will help them build their farm really quickly like taking the three wood from the forest.
  • Going first in a board game like Photosynthesis could be a disadvantage first of all you don't know where all the other players going to place their starting trees and second of all once you place your starting tree a subsequent plate and place the tree right next to yours causing it to block any light that you're going to get on subsequent rounds.
  • No one will ever remember who went first and that's because it's the memories at the gaming table that people take away.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 4rfa5PCDumQ Board Game Sanctuary Top List at 3:19 sentiment: positive
video_pk 109906 · mention_pk 316182
Board Game Sanctuary - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 3:19 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Visually impressive 3D garden.
  • Varied scoring objectives offer player choice.
  • Dynamic gameplay that requires adaptation.
  • Engaging use of the panda mechanic.
Cons
  • Plans can be easily disrupted by other players.
Thematic elements
  • Growing bamboo to fulfill the Emperor's objectives and goals
  • Cultivating a garden for a giant panda as a gift of peace
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • action selection — Players can choose actions like drawing plot cards, irrigating plots, or moving the gardener or panda.
  • Area Control — Players cultivate land plots and grow bamboo.
  • Dice Rolling — Players roll the weather die on their turn to determine bonus action effects.
  • Set Collection — Players aim to fulfill three different objective types outlined on cards.
  • Tile Placement — Players draw plot cards and place them out into the garden, creating a 3D bamboo garden.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Tiling wargames are some of my favorite types of board games to play
  • this video we look at my top 5 favorite tile laying strategy board games for those people looking for something a little bit deeper
  • I really and well and truly appreciate I want to say huge sharer and thank you to all the people currently subscribe to me and my channel this is telling Sonia I'll see you guys again soon enjoy your next board game and I look forward to bringing you some high quality videos in the future goodbye
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video YF9_Tk3je6c Board Game Sanctuary Analysis at 6:13 sentiment: positive
video_pk 109842 · mention_pk 315966
Board Game Sanctuary - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 6:13 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Allows players to shape the garden
  • Water channels irrigate bamboo
  • Interesting directional movement for characters
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • growing bamboo
  • garden
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Hex Grid System — Uses a hex grid system where players add plot tiles to shape the garden and place water channels to irrigate bamboo. Gardener and panda pieces move in specific directions.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • When it comes to board game packaging most board games are square shaped so that they can be catalogued stacked and displayed easily on your shelf
  • When it comes to designing a game and translating it into a fully fledged board game the shape of a game is the first thing that designers often think about
  • Squares are really good because they can be easily joined together with other squares to make rectangles
  • The idea that moving one space diagonally is not the same distance as moving one space orthogonally is an interesting dilemma that game designers have to contend with
  • The hexagon is a very common shape used in many modern board games in fact it's a shape that tessellates extremely well
  • When it comes to emulating the geography and topography of the true natural features of a map in a board game using a hex grid based system is actually particularly effective
  • I'm always truly fascinated when it comes to tile laying games and the sorts of shapes that game designers use in their games to create a fun experience
  • Just because a game uses a square shaped tile in its design doesn't actually mean that that game is any less complex
  • Just when you think that the square has finally relished in its glory in terms of one-upping a hexagon in terms of its design shape well the game gods love dinosaurs takes domino's to a whole new level
  • Polyhexes have an interesting shape to them and when you attach a polyhex to an established map they provide players with up to 10 different options of different ways they can be connected together
  • Henceforth you could even rotate the tile so that it fits in spaces like this one here
  • What this has consistently shown so far is that hexagons always provide that extra flexibility the extra level of option that squares don't often provide
  • I personally gravitate towards the hexagon just because the shapes feel more organic when it comes to map building
  • When games can kind of marry the shape of the game to the mechanisms and their theme and they can do it well then that says to me that it doesn't really matter what shape the game is the game is going to be fun regardless
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video l3eSXLpMb1I Board Game Sanctuary Review at 0:58 sentiment: positive
video_pk 109237 · mention_pk 315538
Board Game Sanctuary - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 0:58 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Too pretty to resist
  • Introduces the concept of shared gardens
  • Incorporates actions for irrigating, growing bamboo, and moving a panda
  • Allows for house rules and modifications (like the chibi's expansion)
  • Expansion adds baby pandas with special rewards, a second pawn tile, and a tile that grows all three bamboo species
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • building a shared Bamboo Garden for the emperor
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • action selection — Players take two actions from their playable.
  • Dice Rolling — Players will be rolling the weather die.
  • Objective Fulfillment — Players race to fulfill objective cards.
  • Set Collection — Implied by growing specific bamboo colors and matching irrigated tiles.
  • Tile Placement — Reflected in building the shared Bamboo Garden and growing bamboo species.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • sometimes there are board games that are too pretty to resist
  • this game will always stay with me
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video bjw4qYGAiio Board Game Sanctuary Analysis at 13:02 sentiment: positive
video_pk 109054 · mention_pk 314678
Board Game Sanctuary - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 13:02 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Effectively uses the rule of three to stretch plays in three directions.
  • Creates a sense of internal conflict and struggle.
  • Three objective cards provide mini goals, and three types of improvements offer strategic depth.
Cons
  • Games never really allow you to do everything you want.
Thematic elements
  • Growing bamboo and managing panda/gardener
  • Garden
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Objective Fulfillment — Three objective cards focus on plot structure, bamboo growth, and panda eating habits.
  • Resource Management — Players manage bamboo types (green, yellow, pink, rare kink) and improvements.
  • Tile Placement — Players build out a shared garden.
  • Worker Placement — Three types of workers: gardener (end-game points/benefits), courtiers (score buildings), and warriors (training zone bonuses).
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I play a board game I often wonder how the game itself gives players a sense of choice and agency whilst maintaining a sense of restriction and competitiveness.
  • This three-stage process was something that really uh intrigued me and so in this video we're going to be looking at how board games use the rule of three to create some interesting gameplay experiences.
  • The idea of having this TR factor or triy pathway through a game or having three open choices not only constrains players to not taking too long on their turn and limiting the scope of what they're contending with.
  • It's always really fascinating to see how game designs can really influence how we feel and how much we enjoy a game and something as simple as three options and giving them to players and letting them feel the tightness of those options is something that really makes us come back to a game time and time again.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 71R8bIoC8cQ Board Game Sanctuary Analysis at 7:02 sentiment: positive
video_pk 108985 · mention_pk 314563
Board Game Sanctuary - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 7:02 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • Japanese theme
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Tile Placement — Mentioned in relation to the hex tiles used in Takenoko.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • what makes the perfect board game
  • different board games are for different people and not every board game is going to suit every everyone
  • your perception of a game does really influence what you think the perfect game is for you
  • if a board game makes you feel really safe but also really excited to play it that marriage of the two kind of equates to a lot of the enjoyment that you have
  • having an emotional connection and an emotional feeling with a theme is something that will influence and often influences me as to whether I think a game will be perfect
  • there are no games with an overall average Board Game Geek rating of 10 out of 10
  • 10 times out of 10 that game is not going to be the perfect game for you
  • using the word perfect implies that there are no imperfections there's nothing wrong with the game something that is perfect cannot exist in the board gaming World
  • the imperfections in the game make it a really good fit for me
  • how you know you find when you found the right game for you the right game for your collection it's because it fits so neatly into your life
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video BN8OBflf5f4 Watch It Played Discussion at 6:41
video_pk 92488 · mention_pk 248571
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 6:41 · 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 never forget that not even for a moment
  • These guys are fantastic they deserve a lot of thanks and both of them have done the work that they've done for watch it played entirely for free
  • I was away and I didn't get this done in time so what I'm going to do is I'm going to extend this perk a little bit longer
  • I'm not very handy so I was very pleased when I put things on it it didn't immediately collapse
  • I hope you guys enjoy the games we have quite a few more draws to do but this episode's getting long enough we'll end it here
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video aMAOkRVGtzs Watch It Played Discussion at 9:43
video_pk 92453 · mention_pk 248447
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 9:43 · YouTube ↗
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
Comparison games
  • Kemet
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Mechanics unknown.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I think they all really work well together first of all it's a great idea why not introduce some more people to gaming
  • I think it's a great resol solution but a wonderful way to do it is with a dinner party
  • Playing Lord of the Rings on octagon just so much more convenient than in real life and easier to find people to play with
  • I adore The Game of Thrones board game
  • I can't complain because the ending and the narrative that went along with the end of that playthrough was pretty exciting
  • I have to say that was uh that was incredibly uh rewarding and meaningful to read so thank you for taking the time to do that
  • we always after playing a game say we need to do this more often
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video sAttDXZmIbQ Getting Games Discussion at 17:33
video_pk 90924 · mention_pk 243479
Getting Games - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 17:33 · 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 decided to stop doing it at this point
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video xs-u0fhCuXE Watch It Played News at 6:10 sentiment: positive
video_pk 89188 · mention_pk 236601
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 6:10 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Visually appealing.
  • Unique dice rolling mechanism with pencils.
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • Gardening, growing bamboo
  • Bamboo Garden
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Dice Rolling — Pencils are thrown as dice, and the rolled symbol is used.
  • Tile Placement (implied) — Developing your bamboo grove and creating washing holes suggests tile manipulation.
  • Worker placement (implied) — Choosing one of the rolled dice to use suggests placement or action selection.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I mean seriously hello
  • look I like crime as much as the next guy and contrary to popular belief crime does pay and it makes you look cool
  • The design and development of Star Wars shatterpoint miniatures game is really our love letter to the excitement and energy of being a kid on Saturday mornings
  • which is why I'm bad at this game of area control tile placement negotiation and of course a bit of dice rolling
  • I'm sure to be checking it out
  • I am well and truly intrigued
  • I've always wanted to jump into this system it looks fun I've Heard lots of good things about its mind melty nature so maybe this is my chance
  • this is your chance to meet the other sponsor that helped make this episode possible Wayland games
  • I love this type of thing it makes me smile
  • I bet it's lovely
  • I want to thumb through a scurvy rule book as soon as I get a chance
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video JPEMsfPOd9I Get into games Interview at 10:01 sentiment: positive
video_pk 86451 · mention_pk 223637
Get into games - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 10:01 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • great family game with approachable rules
  • pleasant components and theme
Cons
  • can be a bit predictable for seasoned players
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 2ng5GBgyj5w Board Games UnLocked Top List at 91:58:08 sentiment: positive
video_pk 83133 · mention_pk 209006
Board Games UnLocked - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 91:58:08 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
Positive
Pros
  • Charming theme and components.
  • Accessible and easy to learn.
  • Visually appealing table presence.
Cons
  • Can feel a bit random due to objective draws.
  • Limited strategic depth for experienced gamers.
Thematic elements
  • Gardening and feeding a panda
  • Imperial Japan
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Movement — Players move the panda and gardener meeples on the tiles.
  • Objective Fulfillment — Players aim to complete secret objective cards.
  • tile laying — Players place hexagonal garden tiles.
  • Worker Placement — Players use gardener meeples to take actions.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • It's like you look at it and you're like, I remember this being really good, but man, do I not want to relearn.
  • It's been one of those things I just haven't gotten to the table much.
  • So, there's 30. Okay. So, 30. There's 30 total factions.
  • It's a crunchier game for a card game.
  • It's almost a four for a deck building game. I mean, that's pretty stout.
  • It's got this sense of discovery, you know, you're moving to different spots on the board, uncovering new things, finding artifacts.
  • The artwork is just gorgeous, and the components feel really good.
  • It's a game that really pulls you in with its theme.
  • You're building up your deck, but you're also exploring and managing resources.
  • It's just such a satisfying engine builder.
  • Every game feels different because of the cards you draw.
  • Watching the planet change is really cool.
  • The amount of strategic depth is just immense.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video Aei05cGUV5g Get into games Interview at 11:30 sentiment: positive
video_pk 81312 · mention_pk 201098
Get into games - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 11:30 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • lovely game
  • cute pandas
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)
  • Strange World Above the Clouds because who doesn't love a cuddle monster?
  • Temple Code because I was terrible at it and I decided I need to do something about it because I was really embarrassed to play it with other people.
  • hydrate, bring a bottle of water, refill it.
  • don't put a lot of pressure on yourself to try and play all of the games. It is impossible.
  • It's the people, right, that make the show somehow
  • this whole hobby is about the people we play the games with rather than just the games.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video qGbCfZwUWJ4 The Broken Meeple Top List at 16:21 sentiment: positive
video_pk 81179 · mention_pk 200372
The Broken Meeple - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 16:21 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Light, fluffy, and fun
  • Adorable theme with pandas and gardens
  • Visually charming components
  • Quick playtime
Cons
  • Can mitigate luck factor with variant rules
Thematic elements
  • growing bamboo and tending to a panda
  • Japanese garden
Comparison games
  • Takaido
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Movement — Moving a panda and gardener around the garden.
  • Objective Fulfillment — Meeting objectives related to growing trees, eating bamboo, and garden colors.
  • Tile Placement — Building a garden with hexes.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • And after the last few lists, videos, podcasts, and particularly the last review for Deepon, which uh I'm still dealing with the ramifications of that from the uh various people on the internet, but I feel like it's time we go to something a little bit more mellow, little bit softer.
  • So, these are games when I'm playing them I feel like you know that you can almost just it's a bit like having a nice massage.
  • And yeah, all of these are just nice games.
  • generally a relaxing game is going to be a lightweight game.
  • It's just so light and fluffy. How can this not be on the list?
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video tNUPh1k_-nU BoardGameGeek Discussion at 1:11:27 sentiment: positive
video_pk 80155 · mention_pk 194651
BoardGameGeek - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 1:11:27 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
Positive
Pros
  • Comforting to teach and play
  • Visually appealing with 3D components
  • Doesn't take too long to play
  • Straightforward actions
  • People enjoy playing and seeing the end result
Cons
  • Player interaction can be frustrating (moving pieces other players need)
  • Requires finding the giant version at conventions
Thematic elements
  • Growing bamboo and tending to a panda
  • Garden
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Area Movement — Players move a gardener and a panda across the placed tiles.
  • Set Collection — Players collect objective cards related to bamboo growth and panda needs.
  • Tile Placement — Players place garden tiles to create the environment.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • But even when I played for the first time, it does not mean anything until you score a goal.
  • It's very easy to grok that you want to put your goals out first and then get the resources, but it's so hard to implement until you played it a couple of times.
  • I really enjoy this game. I like teaching it because it's one of those lighter strategy games that really get people into the mindset or into trying heavier strategy games.
  • And it is so much fun to just watch people act like they don't care initially about whatever green team. And then like when they're winning like I have I have 17 points.
  • I like teaching heavy games when it's very logical.
  • The fun thing about Settlers is that you only are teaching kind of like 70% of the game because when the aliens come out, they have their own set of rules, and you cannot teach them until they actually show up.
  • But if you're a hobbyist it's like this like when can we play this again? It's It is so my wheelhouse. It's not even funny.
  • And it doesn't outstay its welcome. It's really pretty at the table.
  • It's not a stressful real time game.
  • Are you Amanda from the BGG podcast? ... Someone recognized me from my voice
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video iPa2EEaDIKE Rules Teach at 0:03 sentiment: mixed
video_pk 79692 · mention_pk 193246
Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 0:03 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
mixed
Pros
  • Fun to play drunk
  • Satisfying goals provides points
  • Visually appealing theme
Cons
  • Bamboo growth is difficult to control and frustrating
  • The 'not feasible' aspect of irrigation channels
  • Wind weather is considered the 'shittiest'
Thematic elements
  • Satisfying the Emperor, Gardener, and Panda to gain points.
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • action selection — Players choose two different actions from a list of five possible actions on their turn.
  • Dice Rolling — A weather die is rolled at the start of the turn to determine a special event or ability.
  • Movement — The Panda and Gardener move in straight lines on the board to interact with bamboo tiles.
  • Objective Fulfillment — Players complete goal cards (Emperor, Gardener, or Panda) by achieving specific configurations of tiles or bamboo to score points.
  • Rule-bending abilities — Improvement chips like 'poop', 'barbed wire', and 'water' can be played on blank tiles to gain special benefits.
  • Set Collection — Players collect bamboo pieces in the Panda's belly or in boxes on their player board to fulfill goal cards.
  • Tile Placement — Players draw bamboo tiles and place them adjacent to existing tiles or the lake, with a requirement for irrigation.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I hate it I hate it so much
  • The Emperor wants things the gardener wants things the Panda wants things and your job in life congratulations new guideline is to make these three terrible mammals as happy as you can so that they can give you those sweet sweet treasured beautiful delicious points
  • it's not feasible not feasible not feasible
  • this game the game of idealized bamboo and realistic teleporting pandas
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video dQBnvA5JbKM Playthrough at 0:23 sentiment: positive
video_pk 79691 · mention_pk 193245
Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 0:23 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Fantastic game.
  • Great game.
  • It's been getting better every time I'm climbing.
  • I won the first four games that I played.
  • I love.
Cons
  • Leslie keeps us know.
  • I feel like she must've figure out if you find where Leslie cheated will you be a bonus point.
Thematic elements
  • Growing bamboo and tending to a garden with a panda.
  • Once upon a time a panda walked into a bar. The bartender says why the long face. The bartender said why the long face and then the hand sa1 bamboo.
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Movement — The panda and the gardener move around the board.
  • Objective Cards — Completing objectives on cards.
  • Set Collection — Collecting sets of bamboo or tiles.
  • Tile Placement — You get tiles and you place them.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • We're all sober we are I like to sober
  • Is only one letter away from so beer Oh
  • Once upon a time a panda walked into a bar the bar the bartender says why the long face the bartender said why the long face and then the hand sa1 bamboo
  • Oh my god ya didn't want more points on right now bigotry another five I'm can we give up now
  • What the [ __ ] do you have 42 points you'll just do all your goals for you not most of the way
  • Good job Leslie I won thanks for watching huh you beat the second player by almost double their points I tried really hard you were so drunk yep drink water
  • Berating Leslie for cheating I feel like she must've figure out if you find where Leslie cheated will you be a bonus point
  • More drunken antics
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 4vQ_qPEQxWc Watch It Played Playthrough
video_pk 68715 · mention_pk 164995
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
none
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 feel like this uh outfit needs an explanation
  • if you want to see more onesies or yetis or more Andrea more Andrea make sure you subscribe to our Channel
  • well the viewer suggestion that got the most votes came from T Curtis he wants me to ignore the weather die and instead let's go to the table
  • my point total however is a joke is kind of a joke
  • Well and add that to my hand and then we're going to pass it over to you Luke roll the weather die let's see what you get
  • so we can see right here are the four tiles that make up that pattern
  • Oh man take a look this is the last Garden card can you do it so close so close but not enough no
  • well this is going to end the game let's take a quick break here let's add up our scores and we'll come back and let you know who won
  • I just want to say something really quickly uh we didn't share our scores with each other so this is a complete surprise to us as well
  • That was really close look even though I know you came in last 29 31 and 32 that was razor thin that's crazy
  • Yay good game yeah good game and I mean that EMP oh look at this that's that's what I like to see deserve this thank you keep shaking my hand
  • I hope you enjoyed watching us play through Takenoko I really enjoyed playing it did you guys have fun good good
  • I was telling Luke how I got a new book from the library today and the book is about how this boy's parents bring home a baby monkey to do research and they raised him like a child and I said Luke the book is basically my life
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video v7s7nF3xz28 Watch It Played Rules Teach
video_pk 68716 · mention_pk 164996
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
none
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Mechanics unknown.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Remember in the game Takino, it's going to end at T noco.
  • He wants me to use the question mark as the sun weather effect.
  • Woo. I have one with four points on it.
  • Well, thankfully I'm having some help from you guys, the viewers.
  • All right, Luke, it's over to you. Roll the dice. Oo, claw. No, that's the wind.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video R_itOXbLG0M Watch It Played Playthrough
video_pk 68717 · mention_pk 164997
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
none
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've agreed to it and besides cheaters are jerks correct
  • he actually wants me to start by ignoring the weather die that I rolled I rolled rain but you can always choose to ignore ignore the effects of the weather diey if you want
  • The panda's going to eat that Panda no wonder he's so chubby looking he's just constantly eating around here pleasantly plump pleasantly plump
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video yvZECgMd2A0 Watch It Played Playthrough
video_pk 68718 · mention_pk 164998
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
none
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Mechanics unknown.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Now, I have no idea what you just said.
  • So, this was my introduction.
  • I'm going to introduce myself. And as an exchange student, I had to do that a lot. Okay. So, this was my introduction.
  • But before we go, Andrea, you actually were in Japan very recently.
  • We have to admit that.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video yvZECgMd2A0 Watch It Played Playthrough at 0:17 sentiment: positive
video_pk 68718 · mention_pk 310911
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 0:17 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • The game is described as fun and engaging with strategic depth.
  • Objectives provide clear goals and encourage specific play.
  • The weather die adds an interesting variable element.
Cons
  • The repetition of yellow plot tiles is noted as a minor frustration.
  • The initial turns can feel limited due to the available starting tiles.
Thematic elements
  • growing a bamboo garden
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • action selection — Players choose from a set of available actions on their turn, such as drawing tiles, placing tiles, taking objectives, or moving characters.
  • Area Irrigation — Tiles are considered irrigated if they are adjacent to a pond or an irrigation channel, which is crucial for bamboo growth.
  • Dice Rolling — A weather die is rolled each turn (after the first) to introduce a random effect that can alter the gameplay.
  • Set Collection — Players collect bamboo pieces and complete objective cards that require specific conditions or sets of bamboo.
  • Tile Placement — Players draw and place hexagonal tiles to expand the garden, considering adjacency for irrigation and growth.
  • Variable player powers — While not explicitly detailed, the game involves player turns and actions, suggesting individual agency and potential for unique strategies.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Now, I have no idea what you just said.
  • So, this was my introduction.
  • I'm going to introduce myself. And as an exchange student, I had to do that a lot. Okay. So, this was my introduction.
  • But before we go, Andrea, you actually were in Japan very recently.
  • We have to admit that.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video v7s7nF3xz28 Watch It Played Rules Teach at 0:24 sentiment: positive
video_pk 68716 · mention_pk 310907
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 0:24 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • The game becomes easier to complete objectives as more elements are added to the garden.
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • gardening
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • action selection — Players choose from a limited number of actions per turn, such as plotting, taking irrigation channels, or moving the gardener.
  • Objective Completion — Players earn points and trigger the end of the game by completing objective cards that require specific conditions to be met in the garden.
  • random dice rolling — Dice are rolled at the start of each turn to determine the weather effect, which impacts gameplay.
  • Set Collection — Players collect sets of bamboo of different colors or quantities to complete objective cards.
  • Tile Placement — Players place plot tiles and irrigation channels on the board, which are used to grow bamboo and fulfill objectives.
  • Worker Placement — The gardener figure is moved to specific plots to cause bamboo to grow, acting as a worker in the game.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Remember in the game Takino, it's going to end at T noco.
  • He wants me to use the question mark as the sun weather effect.
  • Woo. I have one with four points on it.
  • Well, thankfully I'm having some help from you guys, the viewers.
  • All right, Luke, it's over to you. Roll the dice. Oo, claw. No, that's the wind.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 4vQ_qPEQxWc Watch It Played Playthrough at 10:40 sentiment: positive
video_pk 68715 · mention_pk 248554
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 10:40 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Completing objectives provides significant points.
  • The game is a close race with a surprising outcome.
  • Strategic placement of tiles and irrigation is rewarding.
Cons
  • Not enough objective cards to trigger the end of the game at certain points.
  • Bad luck with objective cards can hinder progress.
Thematic elements
  • completing objectives
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Bamboo Growth — Bamboo grows on plots, with irrigation and fertilization affecting the growth rate and quantity.
  • Farmer Movement — The farmer token moves on the plots to stimulate bamboo growth.
  • Irrigation — Players collect and place irrigation channels to enable bamboo growth.
  • Objective Cards — Players draw and complete objective cards that require specific configurations of bamboo or plots to score points.
  • Panda movement — The panda token moves to eat bamboo, fulfilling certain objectives.
  • Tile Placement — Players place hexagonal tiles representing garden plots.
  • weather die — A die roll determines the weather, which influences actions or grants bonuses for the turn.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I feel like this uh outfit needs an explanation
  • if you want to see more onesies or yetis or more Andrea more Andrea make sure you subscribe to our Channel
  • well the viewer suggestion that got the most votes came from T Curtis he wants me to ignore the weather die and instead let's go to the table
  • my point total however is a joke is kind of a joke
  • Well and add that to my hand and then we're going to pass it over to you Luke roll the weather die let's see what you get
  • so we can see right here are the four tiles that make up that pattern
  • Oh man take a look this is the last Garden card can you do it so close so close but not enough no
  • well this is going to end the game let's take a quick break here let's add up our scores and we'll come back and let you know who won
  • I just want to say something really quickly uh we didn't share our scores with each other so this is a complete surprise to us as well
  • That was really close look even though I know you came in last 29 31 and 32 that was razor thin that's crazy
  • Yay good game yeah good game and I mean that EMP oh look at this that's that's what I like to see deserve this thank you keep shaking my hand
  • I hope you enjoyed watching us play through Takenoko I really enjoyed playing it did you guys have fun good good
  • I was telling Luke how I got a new book from the library today and the book is about how this boy's parents bring home a baby monkey to do research and they raised him like a child and I said Luke the book is basically my life
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video jB3yrb9l68M Board Game Geek Top 5 List at 23:08 sentiment: positive
video_pk 66221 · mention_pk 161027
Board Game Geek - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 23:08 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Cute theme with panda and gardener
  • Accessible for new players
  • Offers expansions like Chibikko and Giant versions
Cons
  • Can require space on the table (especially the giant version)
Thematic elements
  • Array
  • Fantasy garden
Comparison games
  • The Castles of Burgundy
  • Grand Austria Hotel
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Tile Placement — Players place garden tiles to create and grow their garden and bamboo.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I say just do it the easiest way possible, whatever works for you.
  • The flea market at Dice Tower West is for people that really like a good deal.
  • Read the room. If someone loves betting zeros, they’re probably going to bet zero.
  • There is dice and just the randomness of the dice is very interesting.
  • Skull King will never leave my collection.
  • This is a grail game for me.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 4k0M0Tt1C_o Game Night Picks - Pair Of Dice Paradise Discussion at 1:23
video_pk 65555 · mention_pk 159273
Game Night Picks - Pair Of Dice Paradise - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 1:23 · 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 more board game fan art out there than I'd expected but I was also impressed by the variety of mediums used to create it
  • this type of thing is the reason why we never get invited to parties
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video tcLbxnlsMK8 Game Night Picks - Pair Of Dice Paradise Discussion at 7:05 sentiment: mixed
video_pk 65546 · mention_pk 159264
Game Night Picks - Pair Of Dice Paradise - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 7:05 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
mixed
Pros
  • Good to have in the arsenal for showing new gamers
Cons
  • Can be overwhelming with too many moving parts for some new gamers
Thematic elements
  • Bamboo Growing
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Resource Management — Players manage bamboo growth.
  • Tile Placement — Players lay out a hex map.
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 o6MJEbGbCNs Watch It Played Rules Teach at 0:41 sentiment: positive
video_pk 65429 · mention_pk 159102
Watch It Played - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 0:41 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Clear objective cards guide gameplay.
  • Bamboo growth system is engaging.
  • Gardener and Panda movement adds interaction.
  • Collector's edition has larger components and a nice box.
Cons
  • Running out of bamboo of a specific color is a potential, though unlikely, issue.
  • The optional advanced rule for already completed objectives might be complex for some.
Thematic elements
  • Caring for a giant panda gifted by the Chinese emperor, managing land plots, growing bamboo, and feeding the panda.
  • Japanese emperor's court
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • action selection — Players choose two different actions from a list of five available actions on their turn.
  • Area Control — Players indirectly influence the garden by placing tiles and channels, and their actions affect bamboo growth and placement.
  • Dice Rolling — A weather die is rolled each turn (except the first) which can provide bonus actions, bamboo growth, movement options, or improvement opportunities.
  • Objective Fulfillment — Players complete objective cards based on specific garden layouts, bamboo configurations, or collected bamboo to earn points.
  • Set Collection — Players collect bamboo pieces and objective cards to score points.
  • Tile Placement — Players draw and place plot tiles to expand the garden, with rules for adjacency to existing tiles and the central pond.
  • Worker Placement — Players use action markers to select actions, with a restriction against choosing the same action twice in one turn unless a special condition is met.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • hi welcome to watch it played my name is rodney smith in our series we take a game we show you how it's played and then in the following episodes we play the game and where possible we put a seat at the table just for you so you can play along with us and help us make some of the gameplay decisions between the episodes by doing this we believe that you'll be able to decide for yourself whether or not a game would be a good fit for you your family or your gaming group
  • the player who manages these responsibilities best will win the Emperor's favor and the game
  • The great thing about plots is that bamboo can grow on them if they're irrigated, that is if they're receiving water.
  • When a plot is irrigated for the very first time it always grows a single bamboo section in its color.
  • Following the same rules as moving the gardener the player taking this action will move the panda in a straight line as far as they want in any direction they choose but when the Panda stops moving if there is any bamboo in that plot he'll munch on the top section of it.
  • well that is everything you need to know in order to play tacky
  • note though if you have any questions at all please don't hesitate to ask them in the comments below I'd be happy to answer them as soon as I get a chance and I hope you'll return because we are now going to start some more videos where we actually play through the entire game
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video VU0OJQMoWaA Allies or Enemies Top List at 2:17 sentiment: positive
video_pk 61163 · mention_pk 153741
Allies or Enemies - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 2:17 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • nostalgic feel and bright components
  • engaging panda theme and 3D bamboo
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • panda-themed garden cultivation with bamboo growth
  • garden/bamboo cultivation fantasy
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • 3d_bamboo_stalks — visual, physical bamboo components contributing to scoring
  • Tile Placement — placing garden tiles to grow bamboo and score points
  • tile_placement — placing garden tiles to grow bamboo and score points
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • this is specifically for two players
  • it's moving cubes around um it's like chits that are hidden
  • the panda you're moving and you're chomping away at the bamboo
  • it's a great theme
  • it's just such a beautiful relaxing game
  • two players so i think basically everything on our list does work pretty well for two
  • this is a terrific gateway game absolutely
  • you can feel his pain as the panda continues to gobble up all of his bamboo
  • it's a 10 minute game that does tend to take us half an hour
  • it's so pretty and i think the standard edition still is really pretty as well
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 9tYO2Nb90UE Shelfside Top List at 5:42 sentiment: positive
video_pk 60758 · mention_pk 153197
Shelfside - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 5:42 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • charming theme with a cute panda
  • easy to learn and quick to play
  • fun for casual gatherings
Cons
  • board setup and 3D bamboo pieces can be fiddly
Thematic elements
  • Array
  • Japanese emperor; bamboo garden; panda
  • light-hearted and cozy garden management
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Resource Management — manage bamboo resources and gardener actions to achieve goals
  • Tile Placement — tiles are placed to build and develop bamboo gardens
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Chaos just has this fun balancing act of each demon trying to do what's right for them but also keeping an eye on the other demons to make sure they don't get too strong in what they want to do
  • the human skin board just gets increasingly tighter
  • the score at the end of the game is the number of points in your weakest category
  • this is such a cool game and look at this box art
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video MrKToAh9-sc Shelfside Review at 8:42 sentiment: positive
video_pk 60738 · mention_pk 153180
Shelfside - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 8:42 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Charming theme
  • Engaging spatial puzzle
Cons
  • Rules complexity for casual players
Thematic elements
  • Garden cultivation and bamboo growth
  • Imperial garden with a panda
Comparison games
  • Catan
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Card/hand management — Manage cards to influence bamboo growth and scoring.
  • Hand Management — Manage cards to influence bamboo growth and scoring.
  • Resource/bamboo tracking — Track bamboo growth and fulfill objectives for scoring.
  • Tile Placement — Place hex tiles to shape the garden layout.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • these are just like really good pieces of wood
  • super portable
  • you can stack a whole bunch of them
  • we cannot recommend getting these enough
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video Vi3RGk5DoH4 Shelfside Analysis at 12:03 sentiment: positive
video_pk 60660 · mention_pk 153072
Shelfside - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 12:03 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Charming theme and approachable rules
  • Timer can drive dynamic garden planning
Cons
  • Complex interactions can escalate under timer pressure
Thematic elements
  • Array
  • fantasy garden with pandas
Comparison games
  • Lost Cities
  • Patchwork
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Card Drafting — players draft cards to grow the garden and direct panda actions
  • Set Collection — collecting garden tiles/cards to achieve goals
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I love playing with the chess timer
  • it's addicting
  • my final say is to at least try using a chest timer for one of your two player games
  • we could finish brass Birmingham under 75 minutes
  • this chest timer is My Little Secret Weapon to use with a handful of friends to get through our favorite games faster
  • I definitely think we could do it more games less time
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video quu-B6vz2aI Tabletop Tokki Top List at 6:53
video_pk 59703 · mention_pk 152222
Tabletop Tokki - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 6:53 · YouTube ↗
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • Array
  • Array
  • Light, charming theme focused on bamboo growth and plot-driven goals
  • Array
  • Imperial Japan-inspired garden with bamboo, gardener, and panda as focal actors
  • Array
  • Array
  • Array
  • positive
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Mechanics unknown.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Everything is programmed in
  • On Board Game Arena everything's programmed in you know exactly where you can go, how many resources you would get, where your dice are at, which tracks will move up
  • this video is not sponsored by Board Game Arena in any way shape or form
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video YWvn46Rf0uY The Board Gaming Doctor Top List at 5:25 sentiment: positive
video_pk 42346 · mention_pk 128485
The Board Gaming Doctor - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 5:25 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • beautiful table presence
  • welcoming for non-gamers and families
Cons
  • randomness via dice can influence outcomes
Thematic elements
  • garden farming with animal elements
  • A farmer and a panda operate on a modular tile board to grow bamboo and fulfill contracts
  • family-friendly, visually appealing
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Contract fulfillment / point scoring — Complete contracts to gain points.
  • Contracts — Complete contracts to gain points.
  • Tile Placement — Place and grow bamboo on a modular board.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • there seems to be an element of farming or agriculture to most of his games
  • cozy to the farming theme… with bluegrass music in the background
  • nostalgic part of me… Harvest Moon
  • Rosenberg isn't the only person who has designed a farming game
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video kgEHmWkGN0E The Board Gaming Doctor Discussion at 0:16 sentiment: positive
video_pk 33492 · mention_pk 149864
The Board Gaming Doctor - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 0:16 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • charming theme with approachable visuals
  • family-friendly access with quick setup and play
  • clear tactile goals (groves/patterns) that are easy to communicate
Cons
  • replay variety may feel limited for some players
  • ripple effects of combos can be subtle without explicit balance adjustments
Thematic elements
  • garden-colony management with a lighthearted panda motif, emphasizing color and pattern collection.
  • A lush, stylized garden environment where gardeners cultivate bamboo, tend plots, and respond to evolving garden layouts.
  • family-friendly, approachable, with gentle tension around completing grove patterns.
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Resource Management — players allocate bamboo colors and garden resources to advance patterns and secure points.
  • set collection / pattern building — players collect colored bamboo and build patterns on their gardener sheets to complete groves.
  • tile / grid placement — players place garden tiles or plan garden layouts to shape the growth areas and scoring opportunities.
  • Tile Placement — players place garden tiles or plan garden layouts to shape the growth areas and scoring opportunities.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • collect resources and buy cards to expand their influence in Florence
  • as gardeners using colored pencils to develop bamboo Groves on their sheets
  • aiming to complete their Groves first and become the most skilled gardener
  • here are more games in beta testing on
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video qzqbp7IK0Pw Game Night Picks - Pair Of Dice Paradise Discussion at 5:32
video_pk 33322 · mention_pk 98969
Game Night Picks - Pair Of Dice Paradise - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 5:32 · 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)
  • engine building is one of my favorite because you just it's so satisfying.
  • Forgotten Waters is one of the funniest experiences you will ever have in board games.
  • Super Mega Lucky Box is like bingo on steroids.
  • I love auction games in general. RAW is my favorite auction game of all time.
  • There's no wrong way to do it.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video zk8pZPAl_Yc Board Game Dad Discussion at 26:42 sentiment: positive
video_pk 33163 · mention_pk 98425
Board Game Dad - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 26:42 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Beautiful art
  • Easy to teach
Cons
  • May feel light for experienced players
Thematic elements
  • Tile placement and set collection
  • A panda-themed garden in Japan
  • Family-friendly, light-hearted
Comparison games
  • Carcassonne
  • Dixit
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Set Collection — Collect patterns to score points
  • Tile Placement — Arrange garden tiles to meet scoring objectives
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I did a video about how to introduce children to board games.
  • I do think that there is something about starting with a big group and going small from there
  • I cannot think of a game where I didn't feel like a hostage at some point
  • cooperative games as intro they allow deep mechanics but don't let newbies lose because of lack of experience
  • you just kind of say Okay that was a practice round reset to zero
  • that's how you begin to think about rule adherence as part of how you introduce someone to games
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 7ShTHdf6Dog Our Family Plays Games Top List at 39:07 sentiment: positive
video_pk 30683 · mention_pk 90339
Our Family Plays Games - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 39:07 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • cute theme with a panda motif
  • family-friendly
Cons
none
Thematic elements
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Tile Placement — Grow a garden by placing hex tiles and growing bamboo
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Life finds a way.
  • AI can't do that.
  • Talk is cheap because supply always exceeds demand.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video lqIhJmvymYI Adam in Wales - Board Game Design Analysis at 6:09 sentiment: positive
video_pk 13712 · mention_pk 40038
Adam in Wales - Board Game Design - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 6:09 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • accessible and appealing visuals
  • easy to learn
Cons
  • some players seek deeper strategy
Thematic elements
  • set collection/area control with cute visuals
  • gardens in Japan with a panda
  • light, whimsical
Comparison games
  • Carcassonne
  • Kingdom Builder
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Set Collection — collect objectives and matching tiles/cards
  • Tile Placement — place garden tiles to complete objectives
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I don't know very much about wargames I haven't played many war games
  • these games are for adults
  • these are the vast majority these are available easily
  • abstract strategy games don't really look like that anymore
  • these are not children's items they're for adults to have a serious time together
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video AlLyxFANmq4 Going Analog Interview at 8:23 sentiment: positive
video_pk 13575 · mention_pk 129208
Going Analog - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 8:23 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • beautiful components
  • engaging spatial decisions
Cons
  • depends on player interaction for pacing
Thematic elements
  • cute, nature, garden-building
  • bamboo garden with cute panda mechanic
  • family-friendly and charming
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Tile placement / area control — Arrange tiles to grow the garden and score
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • yelling is cathartic, it's good for you
  • my asian parents won't be too disappointed
  • it's the warm-up, but you're doing great
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video yyh3AEk4Jvg Adam in Wales - Board Game Design Top List at 0:01 sentiment: positive
video_pk 12868 · mention_pk 115162
Adam in Wales - Board Game Design - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 0:01 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • simple but engaging
  • beautiful aesthetic
  • satisfying gameplay
  • cute panda and gardener pieces
Cons
  • requires familiarity with board games
Thematic elements
  • garden building
  • nature
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Objective Cards
  • shared worker control
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • these games have amazing table presence by which i mean people are going to glance across the room and go what is that person playing and i want to play all these games
  • stacking games have table presence like nothing else
  • looks beautiful it looks like a load of sweets on the board
  • one of my favorite games of all time
  • i don't like that sort of game i find that one of the most frustrating game mechanisms
  • the central marble dispenser is your main draw in this game
  • absolutely brilliant strategic game quite complex game
  • it's actually my favorite of the mask trilogy
  • i'm almost scared to say this but i don't really like azul very much
  • biggest most overlooked game on this list
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 9_NcqaHe2hA Adam in Wales - Board Game Design Analysis at 1:53:20 sentiment: positive
video_pk 12785 · mention_pk 109430
Adam in Wales - Board Game Design - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 1:53:20 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Creates dynamic gameplay without deliberate antagonism
  • Elegant objective-driven interference
  • Produces engaging player interaction
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • Panda and gardener interaction
  • Japanese garden
  • Abstract thematic
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Accidental blocking through objectives — One player moves the panda to eat bamboo while another moves the gardener to grow it, naturally interfering without deliberate spite
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • that sense of destruction sheer destruction of the playing space and you don't get that much in board games
  • i think that's a really nice level of interaction in games because it's not mean spirited it's not vindictive but it still means you've got to constantly keep thinking
  • i've got my own deck that alone is exciting and different to the vast majority of games that i had played in the past
  • the deck is created as we play we're buying cards from a central pool
  • everybody's got a bit of the same information a bit of different information and it makes the game really really intriguing
  • everybody's running around a table shouting over each other trying to find the people with the same card
  • i've played it with my german family and my english family who can't speak to each other because i don't speak the same language but they could all play happy salmon together
  • everyone's got their own set of poker dice and they're rolling them all at the same time you're not having to wait for somebody else
  • these are just the most fantastic little components that i've i've found in games i absolutely love them
  • it takes six minutes to play which is three rounds of drawing one minutes each and three rounds of guessing one minute each
  • it's so frustrating it just gets in the way it's not fun
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video xbibw-ZdCko Board Game Spotlight Review at 52:34 sentiment: positive
video_pk 12052 · mention_pk 35329
Board Game Spotlight - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 52:34 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • Cutest art in gaming
  • Fun to play
  • Simple game
Cons
  • Haven't played in a long time
Thematic elements
  • Panda and bamboo management
  • Bamboo forest with panda
  • Cute nature-themed
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Bamboo growing — Grow and manage bamboo
  • Map building — Build out the map together
  • Water building — Build water infrastructure
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • Agricola is one of those games that you just got to have in your collection if you like euro style games
  • Porta is one of my favorite underrated games
  • Broom service I absolutely love food service one of the coolest mechanics in board games 100 percent recommend this game it is a hoot
  • Barron Park is my favorite polyomino Tetris in a board game game
  • Orleans is a top 5 game for me period just one of my favorite games to play ever
  • Power grid this was the game that got me into board gaming y'all
  • Seven wonders this is a modern-day classic
  • Betrayal at house on the hill every game is different
  • King of Tokyo one of those games that you have to have in your collection
  • If you like board games one or percent recommend this game
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video ayRMhIac3ms Going Analog Interview at 8:27 sentiment: positive
video_pk 11468 · mention_pk 33725
Going Analog - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 8:27 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • beautiful components and thematic charm
  • clear, approachable rules
  • satisfying spatial planning and resource collection
Cons
  • can feel repetitive for some players
  • board setup influence on balance may vary with tile distribution
Thematic elements
  • gardening, panda care, and decorative bamboo growth
  • Imperial Japan, a garden of the emperor where a panda roams and bamboo grows.
  • gentle, family-friendly with light competition
Comparison games
  • Between Two Cities
  • Carpe Diem
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • multi-objective scoring — Scores derive from multiple simultaneous objectives, requiring balance and planning.
  • Resource Management — Bamboo tokens of different sizes are collected and grown to feed the panda and score points.
  • Tile Placement — Players place garden tiles to create layouts that maximize scoring and panda feeding options.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • I'm very scared I even like I had a nightmare last night I was like I know I'm going to do so bad
  • Camel Up does in fact actually play up to eight players
  • you didn't fail you job number two man if I gotten eight that would have been perfect
  • ark nova but you did quite well
  • Baron Park you can add three points and you are now at four points for the game so far
  • takenoko the chibies EXP Manion because it's from a panda
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 2hex6zUiAc0 3 Minute Board Games Top List at 1:14 sentiment: positive
video_pk 10672 · mention_pk 31496
3 Minute Board Games - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 1:14 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • charming theme
  • quick to teach and play
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • panda and gardener managing bamboo
  • imperial panda garden in Japan
  • family-friendly, light strategy
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Pattern Building — achieve goals by arranging patterns and completing tasks
  • pattern-building / objective cards — achieve goals by arranging patterns and completing tasks
  • Tile Placement — build a garden by placing terrain tiles
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • this is the sort of game that should be in just about every starting collection and that's sushi go
  • a well-designed simple game is a thing of beauty and I think we should appreciate
  • designing a good gateway game anyone can pick up and play is an art form in some ways
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video j_w5rDPfR-0 Our Family Plays Games Top List at 42:26 sentiment: positive
video_pk 8856 · mention_pk 104082
Our Family Plays Games - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 42:26 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
  • garden cultivation, irrigation, and panda-wrangling
  • Japanese garden with bamboo and a mischievous panda
  • family-friendly, light strategic play
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • dice_rolling — random elements adding tension via panda actions
  • set_collection — collecting bamboo and gardener bonuses
  • tile_placement — placing bamboo panels to grow bamboo in different colors
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • It's a wonderful day to celebrate mothers and what they do for us.
  • I'm going to give you a list of games that you can just take to the table and have a good time.
  • Survive is so much fun—take a look at it—you will laugh till you cry.
  • Cat in the Box hands down. Yes, hands down, cat in the box.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video P1pCpG_-ZjE Adam in Wales - Board Game Design Top List at 9:20 sentiment: positive
video_pk 8756 · mention_pk 93444
Adam in Wales - Board Game Design - Takenoko video thumbnail
Click to watch at 9:20 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
  • cute, approachable theme
  • colorful art and tactile components
  • good for families
Cons
  • can feel light for some players
Thematic elements
  • cute and objective-driven garden building
  • garden with bamboo and panda characters
  • light and family-friendly
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
  • Objective Completion — achieve specific objectives for panda and garden progression
  • Tile Placement — place garden tiles to shape bamboo growth and color patterns
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
  • it's a really neat competitive game with a really fun theme
  • another run would be nice
  • the art style put me off but the game is good
  • I raved about this game on my videos when this channel was new
  • this is a co-op game similar to Pandemic
  • it's a gambling game where no money changes hands
  • feels like you're watching a horse race and you're betting on it
  • it's the time pressure
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
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