Keltis
Keltis at your next game night?
Add Keltis 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 Reiner Knizia
- Publisher KOSMOS , 999 Games , Competo / Marektoy , Devir , Filosofia Éditions
- Illustration Martin Hoffmann , Claus Stephan
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 Keltis, 2 to 4 players play cards to move their markers along colored stone paths. Cards have numbers and colors that determine movement in ascending or descending order on paths. Bonus spaces grant points, extra moves, or wish stones used to avoid penalties at the end. The game ends when five markers reach a high space on their paths, and the highest scorer wins.
Who Is This Game For?
Keltis is a family-level game suitable for ages 10 and up, with a medium complexity. Its approximately 30-minute duration fits well for quick play sessions. Prior experience with hand management or set collection games is helpful but not required, making it accessible to casual and new players.
How It Works
Players hold cards in five colors to move their markers along corresponding paths. Cards must be played in ascending or descending order (hand management). On a turn, players either play or discard a card, then move their marker (track movement). Collecting card sets and landing on bonus spaces grants points and wish stones (set collection). The game ends when five markers reach the seventh or higher space on their paths.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Reiner Knizia, Keltis won the 2008 Spiel des Jahres. It is related to Lost Cities but features different rules and scoring. The blend of hand management, set collection, and track movement mechanics creates engaging tactical choices in a short game.
Awards
2009
2008
2008
- 2009 Årets Spill Best Family Game — Nominated
- 2009 Gouden Ludo — Nominated
Pro
- Short playtime of about 30 minutes
- Combination of hand management, set collection, and track movement
- Spiel des Jahres 2008 winner
- Low entry barrier suitable for families and casual gamers
Contra
- No solo mode, requires at least 2 players
- May be too light and tactically limited for experts
- Recommended for ages 10+, somewhat complex for younger children
Setting & atmosphere
The game is themed around Celtic mythology and symbolic stone paths inspired by Ireland. It aligns with the Lost Cities series and evokes Celtic cultural elements.
Tips for beginners
Focus on efficient card play and collecting wish stones to avoid endgame penalties.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, Keltis 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 30 minutes, allowing for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic familiarity with card or set collection games helps but isn’t required.
How does this compare to similar games?
Keltis is closely related to Lost Cities but features different rules and scoring systems.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is a family game for ages 10 and up with moderate complexity.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of hand management, set collection, and track movement defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Keltis is recommended for players seeking a short, tactical family game with moderate complexity. It especially appeals to fans of Knizia's designs and straightforward yet strategic gameplay.
Keltis at your next game night?
Add Keltis to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Keltis to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
