Fabrício Lima

King of Tokyo is a dynamic game, mixing both dice and cards to create a pretty solid combination of mechanics. Very fast-paced and swingy, the game is very easily learned in one or two sessions. But, it can be very dynamic and offer some interesting strategic choices.

The basic goal is sound: Reach 20 victory points, which you can get while controlling Tokyo, or defeat all the other monsters in the game. Rolling dice each turn, you determine whether you will deal damage, gain energy (used to buy cards that grant you special abilities), gain victory points, or heal to stay in the fight. Since you do get some rerolls to set up the “best” strategy, it does require some thought about how best to cope with your rolls and plan a couple of turns ahead. Because it is all too easy to focus on controlling Tokyo, and getting knocked out by an opponent’s roll.

The board is very simple, and all the pieces are very sturdy. The energy “blocks” are a bit on the small side, so they can be easily lost and certain aren’t good for younger children who might like to eat small colored plastic items. But, aside from that, the game is good for anyone 8 and up. Especially with the colorful pieces and opportunity to be a giant monster for an afternoon. Game time can be up to a half hour, but I’ve played games that last 10 minutes depending.

An excellent game, and highly recommended!

Gameplay:
The game is incredibly fun to play. Sure other reviewers will tell you it seems to not have much interaction amongst players but this allows players to talk, shoot the breeze, and have a generally good time while enjoying the game. Id say there is a bit more player interaction as any given card game with a few exceptions. Its borderline addicting in that you can play so many variations of the game due to the multitude of combinations possible within the structure of the cards. Even if you only alter or change one type of card the game can vary wildly from the previous game which again helps with banishing boredom.

Learning to play:
The game is incredibly easy to learn. Within two turns of playing the game most players will pick up 95% of the rules required to play. The rest comes from learning what cards do what. Yet the game has enough complexity in that individuals who have learned to play want to continue playing as the game is difficult enough to master. In short the game is rewarding to beginners and veterans alike.

Overall:
The game overall is fun, easy to get going, and a great central piece to your gaming night.

Takenoko is a fun, lightweight strategy game. Due to the influence of the dice, their is too much luck involved for the hardcore strategy gamer. But for somebody looking for a short game, that involves some strategic planning – and a ‘panda’ – then this game might be for you.

Pros: Gentle fun for the whole family; Wonderfully colorful components and a great storage system; Easily learned while providing nice decision making options

Cons: Might be too light for some gamers