Strategy Board Games Archives

IKI [Review]

Since the days when Tokyo was known as Edo, or even earlier, the Japanese have always pursued an ideal of aesthetics. The so-called Iki. I can’t claim to fully grasp the concept, but, roughly speaking, it’s about showing off refinement and wealth. Quite an easy feat, perhaps. Yet, the swagger must be done without crossing into outright bourgeois arrogance. From what I’ve read, it’s… a pretty nuanced philosophy.

Steam Power [Review]

von Stephan Sonny

So, we do have a streamlined train game in Steam Power. One that’s highly accessible even. Compared to Brass: Birmingham, the network-building mechanic remains intact, where we construct railways to connect cities, transfer and make use of resources. Yet, this game trims away the more economic aspects and the technology tree. It reduces the intricacies. Which, in the end, makes the game more approachable.