Imhotep

2-4

Players

Minutes

10+

Age

2016

Published

Designer Phil Walker-Harding
Publisher KOSMOS , Arclight Games , Devir , Galakta , Giochi Uniti
Illustration Miguel Coimbra , Michaela Kienle

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What to Expect

In Imhotep, players take on the role of Egyptian builders trying to emulate the famous architect Imhotep over six rounds. Players move wooden stones by boat to five key monuments, choosing from actions like acquiring stones, loading boats, or delivering materials. The game centers on timing, tactical placement, and set collection while competing against others aiming for the same goals.

Who Is This Game For?

Imhotep is a medium complexity game suitable for players aged 10 and up. With a duration of about 40 minutes, it fits well into game nights without demanding long sessions. No extensive prior experience is required, making it accessible for families and casual gamers seeking strategic depth.

How It Works

The core mechanics include Area Majority, where players vie for influence on monuments by placing stones, and Set Collection to score points. The modular board represents the river and monuments, with boats transporting stones. Players select one of four actions per turn, balancing resource management and timing to outmaneuver opponents and earn end-game bonuses.

Area Majority / Influence End Game Bonuses Modular Board Set Collection

What Makes It Special

Designed by Phil Walker-Harding, Imhotep was nominated for the 2016 Spiel des Jahres. Its blend of Area Majority, Set Collection, and a modular board themed around ancient Egypt sets it apart. It belongs to the Ancient: Egypt family and features distinctive 3D components.

Awards

Nominated
2016

2016 Cardboard Republic Architect Laurel — Nominated
2016 Jocul Anului în România Beginners — Finalist
2016 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
2016/Fall Parents' Choice Gold Award Winner — Nominated

Pro

Short playtime around 40 minutes
Tactical depth via Area Majority and Set Collection
Thematic 3D building components
2016 Spiel des Jahres nominee

Contra

No solo mode available
May be too light for expert gamers
Requires tactical thinking despite family-friendly age

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in ancient Egypt, players act as builders constructing iconic monuments like the Djoser Pyramid. The theme focuses on transporting building materials along the Nile to create lasting structures.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on timing your actions and managing resources effectively to complete your building projects.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

No, Imhotep is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

A typical game lasts about 40 minutes, making it a compact family game.

What prior experience do I need?

It’s a medium complexity game suitable for players without extensive experience.

How does this compare to similar games?

Imhotep uniquely combines Area Majority, Set Collection, and a modular board with an ancient Egyptian theme.

Is this suitable for families?

Yes, it works well for families with players aged 10 and up due to its manageable complexity and short playtime.

What mechanic makes it special?

Area Majority combined with Set Collection on a modular board defines its gameplay.

Fazit

Imhotep offers solid family-friendly gameplay with strategic depth in a short playtime. It's recommended for those interested in ancient themes and tactical, modular board games for 2 to 4 players.