Scythe
- Designer Jamey Stegmaier
- Publisher Stonemaier Games , Albi , Angry Lion Games , Arclight Games , CrowD Games
- Illustration Jakub Rozalski
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You command one of several asymmetric factions, develop an economy, control territories and deploy dieselpunk mechs. The game mixes resource management, area control and engine-building, with encounter cards and hidden objectives adding variety. There is direct conflict without player elimination, and many choices replace random elements. A streamlined action-selection system keeps downtime low.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at hobby/enthusiast gamers: minimum age 14 and a 115-minute playtime indicate greater complexity. With 1–5 players it suits solo play and full-table sessions; newcomers will need time to learn asymmetry and engine interactions.
How It Works
Each player controls an asymmetric faction with unique starting conditions and resources. Core mechanics include Area Majority/Influence, Card Play Conflict Resolution and Contracts; actions are chosen via individual player boards. Players build economic engines, gather resources, build structures and move units on a grid. Encounter cards present choices that mitigate pure luck.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Jamey Stegmaier, Scythe pairs engine-building with territory control and asymmetric factions. In 2016 it won the Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game and received several nominations (including Best Production Values and Game of the Year), underlining its reception. Jakub Rozalski’s aesthetic contributes to the distinctive presentation.
Awards
2017
2016
- 2016 Board Game Quest Awards Best Production Values — Nominated
- 2016 Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game — Winner
- 2016 Board Game Quest Awards Game of the Year — Nominated
- 2016 Cardboard Republic Architect Laurel — Nominated
- 2016 Origins Award — Winner
Pro
- Robust engine-building combined with territory control
- Distinct asymmetric factions with unique starts
- Low randomness due to decision-based encounters and combat
- High-quality artwork and presentation
Contra
- Lengthy playtime (~115 minutes) requires commitment
- Steeper learning curve for new players because of asymmetry
Setting & Atmosphäre
Alternate-history 1920s Europe: farming, industry and giant mechs around the mysterious 'Factory' form the thematic backdrop as factions vie for territory and resources.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding your faction board and basic action options; gradual engine development over rounds is key.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes. The game supports 1–5 players, so solo play is possible.
How long does a game really take?
Listed duration is about 115 minutes; teaching and setup typically extend total time.
What prior experience do I need?
Some experience with hobby board games helps, given the asymmetry and strategic depth.
How does this compare to similar games?
Scythe combines engine-building with area-majority territory control and decision-driven conflicts rather than heavy randomness.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 14 and moderate complexity, it fits families with experienced teenage players better than casual family groups.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Engine-Building with Area Majority/Influence and Card-Play Conflict Resolution defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Strong pick for experienced gamers who enjoy strategic depth and asymmetry; long playtime and learning curve make it less suited to casual groups. Solo players who like planning-intensive sessions will also find it appealing.
