Kodama: The Tree Spirits

Kodama: The Tree Spirits

Abstract StrategyCard Game
Players
2-5
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
3 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
30 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
14+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
1.6 / 5
Year
2016

About the game

Kodama: The Tree Spirits invites players to grow and shape magical trees over three seasons to please the tiny forest spirits who live in them. You build your tree by laying cards in careful arrangements of branches, flowers, and insects, always thinking ahead about how your tree will keep growing. At the end of each season a Kodama spirit awards points based on how well your tree suits its particular tastes. Charming art and a clever tableau-building puzzle make this a favorite quick family game.

Hobbli's Notes

Kodama is a delightful little game that punches well above its weight for such a compact box. Hobbli loves how the layering mechanic turns simple card placement into a genuinely tricky spatial puzzle. It's an easy recommend for families and casual groups looking for something quick and pretty.

What we like

  • Beautiful, colorful artwork that appeals to all ages.
  • Quick to teach and play in under 30 minutes.
  • Satisfying spatial puzzle in a small footprint.
  • Scales well from two to five players.

Keep in mind

  • Randomness in card draws can limit strategic control.
  • Scoring conditions may feel arbitrary to some players.

Who it's for

Great for families and casual gamers age 8+ who enjoy light puzzle games, in groups of 2-5.

Mechanics

LayeringSet CollectionTile Placement

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