Otys

Otys is a game that surprised me. I picked it up on sale, not expecting much, but it turned out to be a really clever and engaging experience. The premise is simple: you’re leading a team of divers in a post-apocalyptic world where the oceans have risen, and you need to retrieve resources from the depths to rebuild civilization. Each diver has unique abilities that you can use to your advantage, and the game is all about optimizing your actions to maximize your score.

What I really enjoyed about Otys was the way it encourages you to think strategically about your turn, considering not just your current actions but also the potential impact on your future turns. It’s a game of constant adjustment and re-evaluation, as the board state changes with each player’s actions. The diving mechanic is also really cool, as it adds a sense of urgency to the game. You need to manage your divers’ oxygen levels and make sure they’re in the right place at the right time to complete the most valuable contracts.

The game can be a little bit on the heavy side, especially for new players, but the rules are actually quite easy to grasp once you get the hang of them. The game does have some quirks. Some reviewers found the components to be a bit underwhelming, and there are a few rules that can be tricky to understand at first. Some reviewers mentioned that the game’s theme isn’t as strong as it could be, but I found it to be a pleasant background for the interesting mechanics.

Overall, Otys is a great choice for gamers who enjoy engine-building games with a strong focus on strategic planning. If you’re looking for a deep, challenging, and rewarding experience, I would definitely recommend giving Otys a try. Just be prepared to spend some time figuring out the best way to manage your divers and maximize your score.