Faiyum

Faiyum

2020
Strategy
4.01 out of 5
7+ people loved this game
Mechanics
Worker Placement
Complexity
Medium
Duration
110 - 140 minutes
Number of players
1 - 5 players
Minimum age
12+ years

Faiyum review

Faiyum is a strategic card game set in ancient Egypt, and I was intrigued by its unique premise and focus on building up an engine of cards and actions. The game description promises a system of "engines" that allows for strategic card play and clever combinations, and I was eager to see how this played out on the table.

I found the game to be quite engaging. The card mechanics, with their focus on strategic play and deck building, felt familiar but offered interesting twists. It reminded me a bit of other card-driven games, but the unique setting and focus on building a thriving oasis in the desert made it stand out. The system of building roads, settlements, and canals was engaging, and I appreciated the way it allowed players to create unique combinations for their engines.

I did find the game to be a little complex at first, but the rules are well-written and the game provides a good tutorial for getting started. It's a game that rewards strategic thinking and planning, and it's certainly not for everyone. However, for those who enjoy card games and engine-building mechanics, I think Faiyum could be a lot of fun.