Santorini

2-4

Players

Minutes

Age

2016

Published

Designer Gord!
Publisher Roxley , Galápagos Jogos , Korea Boardgames , Spin Master Ltd.
Illustration Lina Cossette , David Forest

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What to Expect

In Santorini, players move their builders on a 5x5 grid and construct buildings up to three levels high. Each turn involves moving and building, with pieces able to move up or down levels. With 40 different god and hero powers, gameplay varies widely, offering depth for both newcomers and experienced players. The goal is to move a builder onto the third level to win.

Who Is This Game For?

Santorini is a light to medium strategy game suitable for families and strategy enthusiasts alike. It is accessible to players aged 8 and up, with quick rounds of about 20 minutes. While the rules are simple, the variable powers provide strategic complexity for more experienced gamers.

How It Works

The game uses grid movement and three-dimensional movement on a 5x5 square grid. On each turn, a player moves a builder to an adjacent space and then builds a level on a neighboring space. Map reduction occurs when domes are placed, blocking spaces. Variable god powers add unique abilities that change gameplay dynamics.

Grid Movement Map Reduction Race Square Grid Team-Based Game Three Dimensional Movement

What Makes It Special

Designed by Gord! as a reimagining of a 2004 abstract game, Santorini was recommended for the 2018 Spiel des Jahres and nominated for several awards including the Meeples Choice Award 2016. Its blend of 3D components, abstract strategy, and variable player powers sets it apart in its genre.

Awards

Recommended
2018

Nominated
2017

2018 Årets Spill Best Family Game — Nominated
2018 Origins Awards Best Board Game — Nominated
2018 SXSW Tabletop Game of the Year — Nominated
2016 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated

Pro

Short playtime around 20 minutes
Variable god and hero powers increase replayability
Unique 3D board with height movement
Simple rules with meaningful strategy

Contra

Supports only 2 to 4 players
Abstract theme may not appeal to everyone
Not ideal for very young children (8+ recommended)

Setting & Atmosphäre

Inspired by the architecture of Greece's Santorini island, the game features thematic buildings on a 5x5 grid representing cliffside villages, combining ancient mythology with abstract gameplay.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on mastering movement and building rules along with understanding the god powers before developing complex strategies.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Santorini is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include an official solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

Games last about 20 minutes, allowing for quick sessions.

What prior experience do I need?

It's a light to medium strategy game suitable for beginners and experienced players due to simple rules and variable powers.

How does this compare to similar games?

Santorini combines abstract strategy with 3D movement and unique player powers, distinguishing it from typical grid or worker placement games.

Is this suitable for families?

Yes, with a recommended age of 8+, it suits families interested in strategic but accessible games.

What mechanic makes it special?

Its use of grid movement combined with three-dimensional movement and map reduction via domes makes it unique.

Fazit

Santorini is a recommended abstract strategy game for players seeking short, strategic matches. Best suited for 2 to 4 players, it balances accessibility with depth.