Kokoro: Avenue of the Kodama

Kokoro: Avenue of the Kodama is a delightful, quick-playing card and write game that's easy to pick up but offers surprising strategic depth. The core mechanic is simple: draw paths on your personal dry-erase board, connecting sanctuaries to offerings to earn points. However, the twist lies in the unpredictable nature of the path and sanctuary cards, making each game a unique puzzle. I particularly enjoy the double-sided boards, adding variety to the gameplay.

While the theme might seem light, the gameplay itself is engaging and the game is perfect for family gatherings or casual game nights with friends. My only minor gripe is that the dry-erase markers included weren't very bold, but I was able to easily remedy this with a new set.

I've found that Kokoro is particularly well-suited for remote play, making it a great option for staying connected during these times. The simultaneous turns make the game move along at a good pace, and the variations provided by the decree cards and the pink side of the board add replayability.

Overall, Kokoro: Avenue of the Kodama is a charming and fun game that's sure to please anyone looking for a quick, lighthearted experience with a bit of strategic thinking thrown in.