Get started free Log in
Tholos

Tholos

2-2
Players
25
Minutes
9+
Age
2021
Published

Track your results with Playnexi

Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.

Start for free

What to Expect

In Tholos, two players duel to gain influence in building the Tholos of Delphi. With high interaction, players take turns either collecting stones into their workshop or placing them on one of seven board locations, each granting a unique power. The game ends when all columns are full, and scoring rewards majority control with a unique system considering own, opponent’s, and neutral stones.

Who Is This Game For?

Tholos is aimed at players who enjoy abstract strategy games with high interaction. As a quick 25-minute game suitable from age 9, it fits well for two players looking for a light to medium complexity experience without heavy rules.

How It Works

Based on the Area Majority / Influence mechanic, players collect stones of different colors into a workshop holding up to three stones. They then place stones onto the board’s seven locations, triggering special actions. Majority in each column at game end determines points, with a scoring system that awards and penalizes based on stone colors.

Area Majority / Influence

What Makes It Special

Designed by David Bernal, Tholos stands out as a compact two-player abstract game focusing on area majority and interactive play. Though it has no known awards, its theme of the ancient Greek Tholos temple adds cultural depth to the strategic gameplay.

Pro

  • High interaction through strategic stone collection and placement
  • Short playing time of about 25 minutes
  • Clear abstract strategy with Area Majority mechanic
  • Cultural theme based on ancient Greece

Contra

  • Designed only for two players
  • No expansions or known awards
  • May feel dry for those uninterested in abstract games

Setting & Atmosphäre

The game is themed around constructing the Tholos of Delphi, a temple in the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia considered the center of the universe in ancient Greece. Players act as builders competing for influence.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on managing your workshop efficiently and leveraging the special powers of the seven board locations.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Tholos is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

A typical game lasts about 25 minutes, allowing for quick sessions.

What prior experience do I need?

The game suits enthusiasts of abstract strategy and is accessible to beginners interested in this genre.

How does this compare to similar games?

Tholos combines area majority with unique location powers and a distinctive scoring system.

Is this suitable for families?

With a recommended age of 9 and short playtime, it is suitable for families with older children who enjoy abstract games.

What mechanic makes it special?

The Area Majority / Influence mechanic combined with location-specific actions creates deep interaction and strategy.

Fazit

Tholos is recommended for players who appreciate fast, strategic two-player abstract games. It suits those seeking short rounds with meaningful tactical decisions.