Ice and Idols
Ice and Idols at your next game night?
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- Designer Mat Hanson
- Publisher Inside Up Games
- Illustration Edu Valls
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
You lead an arctic expedition into an ancient temple labyrinth. According to the publisher, you rotate temple ruins and manipulate pathway tiles to collect Idols and research their powers while Events and time pressure force tactical choices. The game blends Pick-up-and-Deliver with Network/Route Building and Set Collection, and the modular board changes the layout each game. Moves can open new routes or create obstacles as you navigate the frozen maze.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at experienced hobbyists who enjoy tactical puzzles within a 60-minute playtime and can handle Action Points and variable abilities. Suitable for players aged 14 and up, it's more a gamenight title for Kennerspiel-level groups than a light family filler.
How It Works
Players spend Action Points to move on a Square Grid, place or rotate tiles, and build routes to pick up and deliver Idols. Set Collection and End Game Bonuses reward specific combinations, while Events introduce changing conditions. The Modular Board and Tile Placement mechanics keep layouts fresh, and Variable Player Powers create distinct roles for each participant.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Mat Hanson, Ice and Idols pairs a rotating temple mechanic with Tile Placement and Network/Route Building. The modular, event-driven design emphasizes exploration in an Arctic-themed setting and aims for replayability through varied board states.
Pro
- Modular board and Tile Placement provide high variability
- Pick-up-and-Deliver combined with Network/Route Building adds tactical depth
- Variable Player Powers increase replayability
- Around 60 minutes per game fits typical game nights
Contra
- Not suitable for younger children (14+)
- Requires familiarity with Action Points and route-building mechanics
Setting & atmosphere
The game is set in a frozen temple labyrinth discovered by an arctic expedition. Categories listed are Adventure and Exploration, and the publisher description centers the gameplay on researching Idols in icy ruins.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on understanding Action Points and how tile rotation affects routes; prioritize clear, reliable routes before attempting complex interactions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No. The game lists 2–4 players; a solo mode is not indicated.
How long does a game really take?
Duration is given as 60 minutes; allow extra time for setup of the modular board.
What prior experience do I need?
Familiarity with Action Points, Tile Placement and Network/Route Building helps.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ice and Idols combines Pick-up-and-Deliver with a rotating temple and modular tile layout, tying exploration directly to board manipulation.
Is this suitable for families?
With a 14+ age recommendation and tactical complexity, it's better suited for experienced groups than younger family players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The interplay of Tile Placement, rotating board elements and Network/Route Building defines the game's core.
Fazit
Recommended for experienced players who like tile puzzles and route planning; typical playtime is 60 minutes. Those looking for lighter family titles may find the tactical demands higher than expected.
Ice and Idols at your next game night?
Add Ice and Idols to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Ice and Idols to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
