Qawale

Qawale is a simple yet tactical game that truly surprised me. The concept is based on the traditional practice of stacking stones along paths, and it perfectly captures that feeling of nature and strategy coming together. It's a two-player game, and each player gets 8 stones in their color. The game is played on a board with 16 spaces, and the goal is to get four of your stones in a row, looking at the board from above.

The gameplay is fast-paced and engaging. On your turn, you place one of your stones on top of any pile and then move the entire stack. This involves leaving a stone on each space you cross, which adds an element of strategy and challenge. The rules are easy to learn, but mastering the game takes practice and thought.

I've enjoyed playing Qawale with my partner. It's a great game for a quick and casual game night. The quality of the board and pieces is excellent, and the wooden pieces feel nice in your hand. It's a game that we've both found ourselves wanting to play again and again.

However, I have to admit that the game's simplicity can be a bit of a double-edged sword. While it's easy to learn, it can also feel a bit too simple for experienced board game players. There's a definite learning curve, but once you've figured out the basic strategies, the game can feel a bit repetitive.

Overall, I recommend Qawale to anyone looking for a fun, quick, and strategic game. It's a great choice for couples, families, and casual gamers. Just be prepared for a learning curve, and don't expect it to be the most complex board game you'll ever play.