Bonfire
- Designer Stefan Feld
- Publisher Hall Games , 999 Games , Hobby Japan , Hobby World , Maldito Games
- Illustration Dennis Lohausen
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Bonfire, you play as gnomes trying to reignite extinguished bonfires in dark cities. You sail to holy islands, complete tasks from guardians of light, and build your city using colored action tiles. Placing tiles of the same color next to each other unlocks more actions of that type, enabling varied strategies. The game ends after a set number of tasks are completed plus a few extra rounds. Points come from completed tasks and city improvements.
Who Is This Game For?
Bonfire suits experienced gamers aged 12 and up who enjoy complex strategy games with around 100 minutes playtime. It includes a solo mode for single players. Some familiarity with engine-building and set-collection mechanics is beneficial due to its strategic depth.
How It Works
The core mechanic revolves around Pattern Building by placing colored action tiles on your board to gain more of those actions. Through Contracts, you request tasks from guardians of light. Point to Point Movement moves your ship between islands. Market and Set Collection mechanics support resource and action management. The game ends after a fixed number of tasks have been completed plus a final round.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Stefan Feld and published in 2020, Bonfire earned multiple nominations including the Cardboard Republic Tactician Laurel and Golden Geek Heavy Game of the Year. It blends Pattern Building with Contracts and market mechanics in a fantasy setting and features a solo mode, distinguishing it from other engine-building games.
Awards
2020
- 2021 American Tabletop Complex Games — Nominated
- 2021 Gra Roku Advanced Game of the Year — Nominated
- 2020 Cardboard Republic Tactician Laurel — Nominated
- 2020 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
- 2020 Swiss Gamers Award — Nominated
Pro
- Complex blend of Pattern Building, Contracts, and Market mechanics
- Includes a solo mode for single-player gaming
- Thematic fantasy world with engaging task and city building
- Multiple award nominations in 2020 and 2021
Contra
- Approximately 100 minutes playtime requires patience
- Complexity better suited for experienced gamers
- Minimum age 12 limits suitability for younger families
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set on a dark planet where guardians of light ignite bonfires to brighten cities, the game follows gnomes who must complete tasks on sacred islands to rekindle these fires. This creates a mystical fantasy world of light and shadow.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on optimizing your actions by placing tiles strategically and fulfilling tasks with careful planning.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Bonfire contains a solo mode suitable for single players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 100 minutes, depending on player count and experience.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex strategy games and mechanics like Pattern Building and Contracts helps.
How does this compare to similar games?
Bonfire uniquely combines Pattern Building with Contracts and Market mechanics in a fantasy setting with solo play.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and age 12+ recommendation, it’s better suited for experienced players rather than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Pattern Building mechanic where placing colored action tiles unlocks more actions is central.
Fazit
Bonfire is recommended for strategic players who appreciate complex mechanics like Pattern Building and Contracts. The longer playtime demands patience but offers deep gameplay. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a challenging fantasy game with solo options.
