Eila and Something Shiny

Eila and Something Shiny

Players
1
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
1 player
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
45 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
12+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
2.0 / 5
Year
2021

About the game

Eila and Something Shiny is a narrative solitaire adventure following a curious rabbit chasing a mysterious glimmer on the horizon. Across a five-chapter branching story, players guide Eila through resource management and scenario-driven encounters, with each choice reshaping her journey and leading to dramatically different endings. It can be played solo or cooperatively, blending emotional storytelling with light strategic decision-making. The publisher notes the story explores mature themes that may resonate deeply with adult players.

Hobbli's Notes

This is an emotionally resonant narrative game that uses its compact card-driven system to tell a genuinely affecting story. The branching paths give real weight to your choices, encouraging multiple playthroughs to see how Eila's fate can change. It's a quieter, more introspective experience than most solo games on the market. Recommended for players who want their board game to double as a piece of interactive fiction.

What we like

  • Branching narrative gives real weight and consequence to player choices.
  • Compact, portable format suits solo play anywhere.
  • Emotional storytelling sets it apart from typical solitaire games.
  • Multiple endings encourage replaying to explore Eila's full story.

Keep in mind

  • Primarily a one-player experience with limited group appeal.
  • Mature themes may not suit all audiences despite the cute presentation.
  • Comparisons to similar titles are less certain given the niche, narrative-focused genre.

Who it's for

Best for solo gamers and narrative-game fans aged 12+ who enjoy emotional storytelling and branching-choice adventures.

Mechanics