Takenoko
Takenoko at your next game night?
Add Takenoko to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Takenoko to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
- Designer Antoine Bauza
- Publisher Bombyx , Matagot , asmodee , Asterion Press , Bureau de Juegos
- Illustration Nicolas Fructus , Picksel , Yuio
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 Takenoko, players cultivate land plots, irrigate them, and grow three species of bamboo while feeding a hungry panda. You use action points and dice rolls to perform actions like placing tiles and moving the gardener and panda. The goal is to complete objectives by growing bamboo and feeding the panda better than your opponents.
Who Is This Game For?
Takenoko is a family-friendly game for 2 to 4 players, suitable for ages 8 and up. With about 45 minutes playtime and simple rules, it fits casual gamers and players new to board games.
How It Works
Players spend action points to place land tiles, water them, and grow bamboo. Dice rolls determine available actions each turn. Contracts (objectives) guide players to grow specific bamboo patterns. The panda and gardener move on a grid, affecting bamboo growth and feeding. End-game bonuses reward fulfilled contracts.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Antoine Bauza, Takenoko won the 2012 As d'Or - Jeu de l'Année. It uniquely blends dice rolling, action points, and contract mechanics with charming 3D components and a panda theme rooted in Japanese culture.
Awards
2012
2012
- 2012 Boardgames Australia Awards Best International Game — Nominated
Pro
- Short playtime around 45 minutes
- Family-friendly with accessible rules
- Combination of dice rolling and action points
- Winner of the 2012 As d'Or - Jeu de l'Année
Contra
- Dice luck can be frustrating
- Less appealing for expert gamers
- No solo mode; minimum 2 players
Setting & atmosphere
Set at the Japanese imperial court, players care for a bamboo garden gifted with a giant panda. The theme blends Asian culture with nature and animal care.
Tips for beginners
Focus on efficiently completing objectives and positioning the panda to maximize points.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, Takenoko is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically takes about 45 minutes, suitable for a short gaming session.
What prior experience do I need?
Takenoko is an easy-to-learn family game requiring no prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines dice rolling, action points, and contracts with a panda-themed setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, with an age minimum of 8 and simple mechanics, it fits well for families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Action Points, Dice Rolling, and Contracts shapes its gameplay.
Fazit
Takenoko is a solid choice for families and casual players seeking a thematic, light strategy game. Experts may find the luck factor from dice less appealing.
Takenoko at your next game night?
Add Takenoko to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Takenoko to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
