Iwari
- 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.
- 45 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 14+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.2 / 5
- Year
- 2020
About the game
Iwari is an abstract-style Eurogame in which players guide nomadic tribes across five distinct regions, expanding settlements and building totems to bond with elemental Titans. Using a card-driven action system, you'll battle for territorial majorities, build totem networks, and race to complete missions for bonus points. A reimagining of Michael Schacht's acclaimed Web of Power, Iwari adds player boards, modular maps, and even cooperative and solo modes. It's an elegant, tactile game about network-building and area control.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli loves how Iwari layers gorgeous, tactile components over a tight, almost mathematical area-majority puzzle. The five-region board and totem-bonding twist give it more depth than its predecessor Web of Power while staying quick to teach. Some players may find the card-drafting element a bit fiddly at first, and the abstract presentation may not appeal to those wanting strong narrative theme.
What we like
- Elegant area-majority and network-building mechanisms reward careful planning.
- Modular maps and solo/co-op modes add significant replayability.
- Attractive, tactile components elevate the abstract theme.
- Playable in a relatively brisk 45 minutes despite its depth.
Keep in mind
- The nomadic tribe theme feels pasted onto largely abstract mechanics.
- Card drafting can create some analysis paralysis for new players.
Who it's for
Ideal for 2-5 players aged 14+ who enjoy cerebral Euro strategy, tight area-control puzzles, and solo or co-op options.
