Ta Yü
- Designer Niek Neuwahl
- Publisher Crown & Andrews Ltd. , Goliath Games , KOSMOS , Rio Grande Games
- Illustration Dirk Hoffmann , Claus Stephan
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Ta Yü, players take turns drawing and placing tiles on a 19x19 grid to create connection paths from the center to the board edges. Each tile has three outlets, and the score is calculated as the product of the number of spots reached on two opposite sides, requiring balanced offense and defense. Special double-score points on the edges add strategic focus. The game involves teamwork and tactical decisions to extend or block networks.
Who Is This Game For?
Ta Yü is a medium-weight game for 2 to 4 players aged 10 and up, lasting about 45 minutes. It suits those interested in abstract strategy games with simple rules but strategic depth. Prior experience with connection games is helpful but not mandatory.
How It Works
The core mechanics combine Connections, Tile Placement, and Team-Based play. On your turn, you draw a tile and place it on the grid to build connection paths. Teams aim to reach different edges of the board, and scoring is the product of reached spots on two sides, encouraging both offensive expansion and defensive blocking. Cooperation between team members is key.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Niek Neuwahl and recommended for Spiel des Jahres in 1999, Ta Yü stands out with its team-based connection mechanics and unique scoring system. It belongs to the family of connection games played on a 19x19 grid, offering simple yet deep gameplay.
Awards
1999
Pro
- Simple rules with deep strategy
- Team-based gameplay for 2-4 players
- Approximately 45 minutes playtime
- Spiel des Jahres recommended 1999
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Limited thematic immersion
- Some luck involved in tile draws
Setting & Atmosphäre
Ta Yü is inspired by the legend of Yu the Great and is played as an abstract strategy game on a large grid without thematic elements.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on building balanced connections on two sides and use defensive plays to block opponents’ paths.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Ta Yü 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 an evening session.
What prior experience do I need?
Ta Yü is a medium-weight game with simple rules and requires little prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ta Yü combines connection mechanics with team play and a unique scoring system as a product of connected spots.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 10 and moderate complexity, it fits more experienced families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Connections, Tile Placement, and Team-Based mechanics gives it strategic depth.
Fazit
Ta Yü is recommended for fans of abstract strategy and team play who enjoy short, intense games requiring tactical thinking.


















