Wendake

Wendake is a game that truly immerses you in the lives of the Wyandot people during the 1750s. The game's focus on the daily life of the tribe, from farming to hunting to rituals, is refreshing and incredibly engaging. What sets Wendake apart from other games is its unique action selection system. You use tiles to activate your actions, and you need to plan ahead or risk getting stuck with sub-optimal choices. This element adds a layer of strategic depth that really makes you think.

I also appreciate the game's approach to victory points. Instead of simply awarding points for the highest score, Wendake focuses on balance. You need to excel across different aspects of your tribe's life, which adds another layer of complexity and encourages diverse strategies. While the game's theme of the Seven Years' War is present, it's not the main focus. This allows Wendake to tell a more nuanced story of Native American life during this period.

The game's components are beautifully crafted, and the overall presentation is top-notch. I especially enjoyed the historical notes and the inclusion of the smallpox rule, which, while a tragic part of history, adds another layer of realism. Wendake is a game that will stay with you long after you've finished playing. It's a must-have for anyone looking for a unique and engaging historical experience.