Sauerbaum
- Designer Johannes Tranelis
- Publisher Herder Spiele , Zoch Verlag
- Illustration Kristine Rothfuß-Rietmann
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Sauerbaum, players move their pawns on a tree grid to fend off falling acid rain drops. The game combines dice-based movement with cooperative planning, encouraging open discussion among players. They race against time as acid drops fill the tree from top to bottom, requiring teamwork to remove them effectively.
Who Is This Game For?
Sauerbaum is suitable for families and casual gamers aged 8 and up who enjoy cooperative games. With a playtime around 30 minutes, it offers a quick and accessible experience requiring no prior complex game knowledge.
How It Works
The core mechanics include cooperative gameplay and dice rolling. Players move on a grid representing a tree, aiming to remove acid rain tokens by landing on them and 'flicking' them off. Open communication to coordinate moves is essential to overcome the accumulating acid drops.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Johannes Tranelis, Sauerbaum was recognized early as a pioneering cooperative game, receiving a Spiel des Jahres recommendation in 1987 and winning the special cooperative family game award in 1988. Its combination of dice mechanics and teamwork set a precedent in the German board game scene.
Pro
- Early example of cooperative board gaming
- Short playtime of about 30 minutes
- Simple rules, family-friendly for ages 8+
- Emphasizes open communication among players
Contra
- Only for 3 to 7 players
- No solo mode available
- Limited complexity for advanced gamers
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game centers on environmental damage caused by acid rain. The board depicts a tree gradually overwhelmed by acid drops, with players working together to save it.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Coordinate closely with your teammates and discuss moves openly to effectively remove acid rain drops.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Sauerbaum is designed for three to seven players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick family-friendly experience.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is simple and suitable for beginners without prior gaming experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Sauerbaum is considered a pioneering cooperative dice game from 1986, laying groundwork for later cooperative titles with its teamwork focus.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is family-friendly starting at age 8 with straightforward mechanics.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its combination of cooperative gameplay and dice mechanics with open player communication defines its unique play style.
Fazit
Sauerbaum is recommended for groups of three to seven players seeking a short, cooperative dice game experience. It suits those wanting to collaborate against the game rather than competing.
