Tembo: Survival on the Savanna
Tembo: Survival on the Savanna at your next game night?
Add Tembo: Survival on the Savanna to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Asger Aleksandrov Granerud , Mads Fløe , Dan Halstad , Daniel Skjold Pedersen
- Publisher Sidekick Games , Devir , Lucky Duck Games , The Op Games
- Illustration Vincent Dutrait
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
You lead a herd of elephants across the savanna, managing food, water and threats like lions. On your turn you play a card to expand the savanna or move the herd; cards have dual uses and seating order affects how you can play them. Games end when you reach the destination or fail by hunger, an empty deck, or being caught by lions. Each session presents new challenges and requires communication and planning.
Who Is This Game For?
Suitable for players aged 10+ and groups who enjoy cooperative puzzles. With solo rules it also supports lone play. At about 45 minutes per game it fits casual game nights and players looking for a medium-length cooperative experience.
How It Works
Tembo uses Multi-Use Cards and a Modular Board: players choose whether to use a card to alter the board or advance the herd. Seating order influences card options, creating layered decisions that reward teamwork. As a cooperative game you must manage resources like food and water and respond to hazards. The modular layout ensures varied setups and replayability.
What Makes It Special
The four designers combine cooperative gameplay with puzzle-style choices and Multi-Use Cards. The animal/survival theme shapes the decisions you face. The Modular Board approach gives varied scenarios and replay value.
Pro
- Cooperative design emphasizes communication and teamwork
- Multi-Use Cards create meaningful tactical choices
- Modular Board increases variability and replayability
- Includes solo rules (players.min = 1)
Contra
- Requires coordination, which can be demanding for casual groups
- Learning the card options takes some practice
Setting & atmosphere
The theme follows an elephant herd's journey through the African savanna, focusing on foraging, water and predator threats like lions. Categories list Animals and Survival.
Tips for beginners
Discuss roles and priorities in the first rounds; focus on basic resource management and straightforward moves before complex combos.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes. The game supports solo play (players.min = 1).
How long does a game really take?
The listed duration is about 45 minutes; include setup and explanation time when planning your session.
What prior experience do I need?
Some experience with cooperative games helps due to the emphasis on communication and planning; age recommendation is 10+.
How does this compare to similar games?
Tembo mixes cooperative play with Multi-Use Cards and a Modular Board, leading to varied puzzle-like sessions.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes. The minimum age is 10 and the ~45 minute playtime suits family game nights.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Multi-Use Cards and a Modular Board within a cooperative framework is the game's defining mechanic.
Fazit
A solid cooperative puzzle experience for players who value planning and teamwork. Recommended if you enjoy medium-length cooperative games.
Tembo: Survival on the Savanna at your next game night?
Add Tembo: Survival on the Savanna to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Tembo: Survival on the Savanna to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in