Kanagawa
- Designer Bruno Cathala , Charles Chevallier
- Publisher IELLO , 2 Pionki , Albi , Bureau de Juegos , Devir
- Illustration Jade Mosch
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Kanagawa, you play as a disciple of the famous Japanese painter Hokusai in 1840, expanding your studio and painting scenes inspired by trees, animals, and buildings. The game incorporates mechanics like Hand Management, Open Drafting, and Pattern Building to create harmonious prints reflecting seasonal changes, challenging you to prove your artistic worth.
Who Is This Game For?
Kanagawa suits families and casual gamers who enjoy tactical decisions within a short 45-minute playtime. It's a family game with moderate complexity, requiring no extensive prior experience, making it accessible and engaging for a broad audience.
How It Works
Players draft cards openly (Open Drafting), managing their hand efficiently (Hand Management) to build patterns (Pattern Building) on their tableau. The Turn Order: Claim Action mechanic determines action sequence, while Push Your Luck elements add tension as you decide how far to risk your choices for better results.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Bruno Cathala and Charles Chevallier, Kanagawa won the 2017 Graf Ludo Best Family Game Graphics and was nominated for the 2016 Golden Geek Best Board Game Artwork & Presentation. It uniquely combines set collection and tableau building with an artistic theme centered on Japanese painting.
Awards
2016
- 2018 Gioco dell’Anno — Nominated
- 2018 Gra Roku Family Game of the Year — Nominated
- 2017 Graf Ludo Best Family Game Graphics — Winner
- 2016 Jocul Anului în România Beginners — Winner
Pro
- Art-themed gameplay with strong integration of mechanics
- Concise 45-minute playtime
- Tactical depth through Hand Management and Pattern Building
- Award-winning graphic design (Graf Ludo 2017)
Contra
- Supports only 2 to 4 players
- Pattern recognition and card management can be challenging for younger players
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in 1840 Kanagawa Bay near Tokyo, players act as pupils in Hokusai's painting school, improving their skills and creating scenic artworks inspired by nature and the seasons.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on managing your hand efficiently and spotting pattern opportunities to maximize points.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Kanagawa 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 45 minutes, suitable for a game night.
What prior experience do I need?
As a family game with moderate complexity, Kanagawa is accessible to new players.
How does this compare to similar games?
Kanagawa stands out by combining art themes with mechanics like Hand Management and Pattern Building.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is designed as a family game for ages 10 and up.
What mechanic makes it special?
The interplay of Hand Management, Open Drafting, and Pattern Building defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Kanagawa is a recommended family game that balances artistic theme, tactical depth, and a concise playtime. Ideal for players who appreciate pattern creation and card management in a relaxed setting.
