Santorini
- 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.
- 20 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 8+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 1.7 / 5
- Year
- 2016
About the game
Santorini is an elegant, accessible abstract strategy game where players race to build their pieces up to the third level of a rising cityscape: or to strand an opponent so they can't move. Every turn is a simple move-then-build, but the game's forty optional god-power cards layer in wildly different abilities that transform the strategic landscape. Simple enough to teach in minutes, yet deep enough for serious tactical play. It's beautifully produced and scales from a fast two-player duel to team play.
Hobbli's Notes
One of the best modern abstract games: simple rules, gorgeous components, and a huge amount of variability from the god powers. It works equally well as a quick filler or a genuinely competitive head-to-head battle.
What we like
- Extremely simple core rules that teach in minutes.
- God-power cards add huge variability and replay value.
- Gorgeous, tactile 3D components.
- Sharp tactical depth for an abstract game.
Keep in mind
- Base game without god powers can feel thin for experienced gamers.
- Best experienced primarily as a two-player game.
- Some god powers can create imbalance if not curated.
Who it's for
Great for all ages 8+ and both new and experienced gamers; especially strong as a two-player game, though team variants exist.
