Tekhenu: Obelisk of the Sun
- Designer Daniele Tascini , Dávid Turczi
- Publisher Board&Dice , BoardM Factory , CMON Global Limited , CrowD Games , Giant Roc
- Illustration Michał Długaj , Jakub Fajtanowski , Zbigniew Umgelter , Aleksander Zawada
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take on the role of ancient Pharaohs expanding the Temple of Amun-Ra on the Nile's eastern bank. The game board features six sections tied to Egyptian gods and a central obelisk that casts shifting shadows. Over multiple rounds, players draft colored dice with values affected by the obelisk's shadow, classified as Pure, Tainted, or Forbidden. The sun's rotation changes available actions, requiring tactical dice selection and planning.
Who Is This Game For?
Tekhenu is a medium to heavy strategy game suitable for players aged 14 and up, lasting about 120 minutes. It appeals to those experienced with complex mechanics like Dice Drafting and Engine Building. A solo mode is included, making it accessible for single players as well.
How It Works
Each round, players draft dice from different board sections, each enabling specific actions. Central mechanics include Action Drafting, Turn Order based on stats, and Pattern Building. The color and value of dice are influenced by the obelisk's shadow, which changes each round, affecting dice availability and strategic choices.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Daniele Tascini and Dávid Turczi, Tekhenu was nominated in 2020 for the Cardboard Republic Tactician Laurel and Golden Geek Heavy Game of the Year. Its unique combination of dice drafting with a dynamic shadow mechanic sets it apart, within the Ancient: Egypt family of games.
Awards
2020
- 2020 Cardboard Republic Tactician Laurel — Nominated
Pro
- Innovative dice drafting with dynamic shadow mechanic
- Deep strategy with pattern building and turn order
- Includes solo mode
- Rich ancient Egyptian mythological theme
Contra
- Relatively long playtime around 120 minutes
- Complex rules demand experienced players
- Age restriction of 14+ limits younger family players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in ancient Egypt on the Nile’s east bank at Karnak near Luxor, players honor Egyptian gods through temple building and the symbolic obelisk Tekhenu.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand how the obelisk’s shadow affects dice colors and values before making tactical choices.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Tekhenu includes a solo mode for single-player gaming.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 120 minutes, not including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced players aged 14 and up familiar with complex mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
Tekhenu stands out by combining dice drafting with a unique dynamic shadow mechanic affecting gameplay.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age recommendation, it’s better suited for experienced players rather than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The dynamic shadow cast by the obelisk influences dice drafting and adds tactical depth.
Fazit
Tekhenu offers a rewarding experience for players who enjoy deep dice mechanics and strategic planning in a historical setting. The game’s complexity and length require prior gaming experience.
