Tidal Blades: Heroes of the Reef

Tidal Blades: Heroes of the Reef

Fantasy
Players
1-4
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
3 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
90 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
14+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
2.9 / 5
Year
2020

About the game

Tidal Blades: Heroes of the Reef sends 1-4 players to compete in a grand tournament to become an elite Tidal Blade, protector of an island realm threatened by monsters from the mysterious Fold. Over five days and nights, you'll gather resources, take on challenges in three unique arenas, and battle monsters to rise in the Champion's rankings. Variable hero powers and worker-placement-style actions let every player develop a distinct strategy. Lush, colorful art brings this fantasy tournament to vivid life.

Hobbli's Notes

Tidal Blades is a gorgeous worker-placement game with real thematic punch: the tournament structure gives every session a satisfying narrative arc. The variable powers and challenge system provide plenty of strategic texture for a 90-minute game. It's a great pick for groups who want fantasy flavor with meaningful decisions.

What we like

  • Rich worker-placement action with distinct hero variable powers.
  • Strong fantasy theme with a satisfying tournament arc.
  • Good solo mode for players without a regular group.
  • Beautiful, colorful artwork throughout.

Keep in mind

  • 90-minute playtime with meaningful downtime between turns.
  • Rules and setup can be involved for newer players.
  • Monster and Fold battles can create some player elimination-adjacent frustration.

Who it's for

Suited to gamers (14+) in groups of 2-4 (also solo-friendly) who enjoy worker placement with fantasy theme and character progression.

Mechanics

Dice RollingHand ManagementKill StealDraftingSet CollectionSolo / Solitaire GameTurn OrderVariable Player PowersWorker Placement

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