If you're looking for a gift for someone special, one of these games may be the perfect thing.
In each post I'll review a game, give you the pro's and con's, and tell you who will benefit most from the game.
Waters Edge
We were lucky enough to get our hands on an advance copy of Waters Edge, a new game that's just launched. You can pre-order a copy here.
We're not affiliated with Waters Edge, this is our honest opinion after playing the game.
This crowd-funded game is made by Scottish artist Catherine Redgate. It's based on a cottage fishing industry, although you don't need to be fishing-mad to enjoy it.
After playing this game we had some great discussions about systems (inputs, processes, outputs) and sustainability (Australian Curriculum).
Pros
This game is complicated enough to engage adults and older children.
The artwork is simply stunning.
Although there is luck involved, it also requires some skill, which is a pro in my book.
Because there are a lot of cards, the game is quite different to play each time, depending on which cards come up most.
The playing time for us has been in the 25-40 minute range, which is perfect for a quick after-dinner round. The playing time is determined by the 'time of day' and 'day of the week' cards.
The way the game operates - building up the lighthouse and shops, shifting fish between your boats, ice house and village - is really unique and fun.
It has a quaint, old-fashioned feel: A throw-back to seaside communities of yore.
The cards and instructions are high quality and easy to follow.
It's made in Scotland but suits a global audience.
Cons
It's too complicated for early learners.
This game would lend itself really well to team play and it's a shame that's not how it's intended to be played.
Who this game is for
This game is perfect for fans of card games that involve an element of luck but also some decision-making.
As yet, we haven't had ANY sibling squabbles over this game. ZERO!
We tend to have a problem in our house with games of pure strategy... After a certain point there is a bathetic descent, because certain people can't blame bad/good luck for losing/winning!
So if pure strategy games are a combat sport in your house, Waters Edge is for you.
There's a certain amount of decision-making about when to move fish and which cards to play, so you do get to exercise your grey matter, but there's enough luck involved to keep things light-hearted.
Waters Edge celebrates something that transcends ages and cultures: The act of procuring food from the sea.
What are your recommendations for games? We'd love to know in the comments.
Thanks for your time. Stay tuned for our next game review: The Ancient Egyptian Game of Senet. In the meantime, try this post with our favourite maths games: 10 Maths Games You Don't Want To Miss.
x x Zoe
