Reef

Reef is a fantastic abstract strategy game that's easy to learn but offers plenty of depth for those who want to dig deeper. I was drawn to it because of its colorful coral pieces and the promise of a 3D building element, and I'm happy to report that it delivers on both fronts. The game plays a lot like Azul, with players scoring points by creating patterns of colored pieces, but Reef introduces a few clever twists.

First, you have to manage your hand of cards, which determine what pieces you can add to your reef and what patterns will score points. This adds a layer of planning and decision-making, as you try to get the right cards at the right time. Second, the 3D aspect, where you can stack pieces on top of each other, really changes the game. It means that your reef is constantly changing, which makes for some really interesting strategic choices.

I've enjoyed playing Reef with both my family and friends. It's a great game for a wide range of ages and skill levels, and it's always a lot of fun to see everyone's reefs evolve throughout the game.

If you're looking for a fun, engaging, and visually appealing abstract strategy game, Reef is definitely worth checking out. It's a great choice for families, casual gamers, and anyone who enjoys a good puzzle.