Arimaa
Arimaa at your next game night?
Add Arimaa to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Aamir Syed , Omar Syed
- Publisher Z-Man Games
- Illustration Karim Chakroun
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In Arimaa, you maneuver stronger animals like elephants and camels to freeze, push, and pull weaker opposing pieces while trying to sneak a rabbit across the board. Despite simple rules, it offers deep strategic gameplay with varied moves and traps, making each game unique and challenging over many turns.
Who Is This Game For?
Arimaa targets experienced players who enjoy abstract strategy games. Suitable for two players aged 10 and up, it lasts about 60 minutes. While rules are easy to grasp, the strategic depth requires patience and analytical thinking.
How It Works
Players take turns moving animal pieces on an 8x8 grid, with up to four steps per turn. Pieces have a strength hierarchy affecting how they can push or freeze others. Core mechanics include Action Points, Grid Movement, and Zone of Control. The goal is to get a rabbit to the opposite side while using traps and blocking opponent pieces.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Omar Syed, inspired by artificial intelligence and chess, Arimaa won the Games Magazine Best New Abstract Strategy Game award in 2011. It uniquely combines animal strength hierarchy with tactical pushing on a grid, creating deep strategy from simple rules.
Awards
- 2011 Games Magazine Best New Abstract Strategy Game — Winner
Pro
- Deep strategic complexity despite simple rules
- High replayability with variable setups
- Winner of Games Magazine Best New Abstract Strategy Game 2011
- Combination of Action Points and Zone of Control mechanics
Contra
- Only for two players
- Strategic depth may overwhelm beginners
- 60-minute duration demands focus and patience
Setting & atmosphere
Arimaa is set on an abstract 8x8 grid featuring animal pieces interacting through a strength hierarchy. It lacks a narrative world but offers thematic depth through its animal motif.
Tips for beginners
Master the animal strength hierarchy and basic movements before exploring advanced tactics.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Arimaa is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, though duration can vary with player skill.
What prior experience do I need?
Familiarity with abstract strategy games helps in understanding the game's complex tactics.
How does this compare to similar games?
Arimaa uniquely combines an animal strength hierarchy with pushing mechanics and action points on a grid.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its strategic depth and game length, Arimaa is better suited for experienced players rather than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Action Points, Grid Movement, and Zone of Control defines Arimaa's strategic depth.
Fazit
Arimaa is a demanding two-player abstract strategy game that blends simple rules with deep tactics. It suits players who appreciate long, thoughtful sessions.
Arimaa at your next game night?
Add Arimaa to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Arimaa to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
