Ys
- Players
- 2-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 4 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 90 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.9 / 5
- Year
- 2004
About the game
Ys is a bluffing and area-majority game set in the legendary sunken city, where merchant-princes send teams of brokers into four city neighborhoods to control ports, markets, and the palace. Each broker is placed either face-up or face-down, letting players bluff about their true intentions while jockeying for the first pick of precious jewels. A dynamic gem market adds another layer of speculation, since values shift as players try to influence prices.
Hobbli's Notes
We find Ys to be an underrated gem of a bluffing-and-bidding design, with the hidden broker placement creating genuine psychological tension around the table. Its 90-minute runtime and hefty downtime score reflect a game that rewards patient, calculating players over casual ones. It's a satisfying pick for groups who enjoy negotiation-adjacent area control with a heavy dose of misdirection.
What we like
- Face-up/face-down broker placement creates rich bluffing.
- Area-majority mechanics reward careful positioning.
- Dynamic gem market adds an extra layer of speculation.
- Distinctive sunken-city theme stands out from typical euros.
Keep in mind
- High downtime score suggests notable waiting between turns.
- 90-minute runtime is a big ask for casual groups.
- Bluffing mechanics may not suit purely analytical players.
Who it's for
Best for experienced strategy gamers aged 12+ who enjoy bluffing and area-majority mechanics in groups of two to four.
