Clans
- Players
- 2-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 30 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 10+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.0 / 5
- Year
- 2002
About the game
In Clans, each player is secretly assigned one of five colors and must score points for that color without revealing which one it is. The board is divided into regions of five areas, each populated with colored huts, and players move groups of huts between adjacent territories, trying to steer scoring events toward their hidden color while disguising their intentions. When a fully surrounded area triggers a scoring, single-hut colors are eliminated and everyone's true identity is finally revealed at game's end. Designed by Leo Colovini, it's a clever blend of abstract movement and social deduction.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's editorial team enjoys how Clans hides player identity behind an abstract movement puzzle, creating bluffing tension rarely found in pure abstract games. Because your own color is secret even to you until certain points, every move doubles as both strategy and misdirection. It plays quickly and teaches easily despite its clever depth. A great choice for groups who like a short, thinky game with a social twist.
What we like
- Hidden-color mechanic adds unusual bluffing to an abstract strategy game.
- Quick 30-minute playtime fits easily into a game night.
- Simple rules hide surprising strategic depth.
- Scales well for a variety of group sizes.
Keep in mind
- Randomized color assignment can feel arbitrary to some players.
- Abstract presentation may not appeal to theme-focused gamers.
- Player interaction can be indirect for those wanting direct confrontation.
Who it's for
Good for 2-4 players, ages 10+, who enjoy quick abstract strategy games with a bluffing twist.
