Tavarua

Tavarua is a unique and engaging board game that puts you in the shoes of a surfer competing in a contest. The game's mechanics are cleverly designed to capture the thrill of riding waves, from paddling out to catching the perfect swell and maneuvering to stay balanced. I really enjoy the simultaneous action element, where everyone plays at the same time, creating a dynamic and fast-paced experience. The wave mechanics are ingenious, and the use of meeples to represent surfers on the board is a nice touch.

The game is visually appealing, with custom surfboards and meeples that add to the overall theme. While the rulebook could benefit from some improvements, the game itself is relatively easy to learn once you grasp the core concepts. The game's complexity can be daunting at first, especially for those unfamiliar with euro-style games, but it's definitely rewarding to master the strategies and nuances of Tavarua.

I found the game to be very replayable, with different wave combinations and card choices offering a fresh experience each time. The game is best enjoyed with a group of friends who are willing to embrace the challenge and learn the game's intricacies together. The game’s focus on wave progression and planning maneuvers, along with the inherent chance involved with each wave, makes for a compelling and strategic experience.

However, the game is not for everyone. Those who prefer simpler or more traditional board games might find Tavarua’s complexity overwhelming. The rulebook is extensive and can be confusing at times. Even if you've been a board game enthusiast for years, you might find Tavarua's gameplay and rules outside of your typical experience. But if you're looking for a unique and thematic board game with a bit of a learning curve, Tavarua is definitely worth checking out.