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Tikal INTERNATIONAL GAMERS AWARD NOMINIERT 2000 SPIEL DES JAHRES 1999 DEUTSCHER SPIELEPREIS 1999

Tikal

2-4
Players
90
Minutes
10+
Age
1999
Published

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What to Expect

In Tikal, players explore the Central American jungle with their team to uncover lost temples and treasures. Movement happens on a hexagon grid, revealing terrain and competing for control of temples to score points. The game combines action points, auctions, and area majority mechanics, creating tactical decisions each round. It is the first game in the Mask Trilogy by Kramer and Kiesling.

Who Is This Game For?

Tikal is suitable for experienced gamers aged 10 and up who enjoy tactical planning and exploration. With a playing time of about 90 minutes, it requires patience and strategic thinking. It is not a simple family game but demands some familiarity with mechanics like area majority and action points.

How It Works

Players receive a set number of action points each round to move on a hex grid, reveal new terrain, and occupy temples. Auctions are used to bid for action opportunities, while majority control of areas grants victory points. Players expand their influence and try to maximize points through timing and area control.

Action Points Area Majority / Influence Auction / Bidding Events Grid Movement Hexagon Grid

What Makes It Special

Designed by Michael Kiesling and Wolfgang Kramer, Tikal won the 1999 Spiel des Jahres and Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game. As the first title of the Mask Trilogy, it uniquely blends action points, auctions, and area control into a cohesive experience.

Awards

INTERNATIONAL GAMERS AWARD NOMINIERT 2000
Nominated
2000
SPIEL DES JAHRES 1999
Winner
1999
DEUTSCHER SPIELEPREIS 1999
Winner
1999
  • 2004 Hra roku — Nominated
  • 1999 Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game — Winner
  • 1999 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated

Pro

  • Winner of Spiel des Jahres 1999 and Deutscher Spiele Preis
  • Combines action points, auctions, and area majority
  • Engaging exploration on a hexagon grid
  • First game of the well-known Mask Trilogy

Contra

  • Only for 2 to 4 players
  • Playing time around 90 minutes requires patience
  • Higher complexity than simple family games

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in the Central American jungle, players take on the role of explorers searching for lost temples and treasures. The theme reflects archaeological expeditions in ancient cultures.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on efficiently using your action points and securing control over temple areas to maximize your points.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Tikal is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

The playing time is around 90 minutes, allowing for a medium-length session.

What prior experience do I need?

Tikal is an expert-level game requiring tactical thinking and familiarity with mechanics like area majority and auctions.

How does this compare to similar games?

Tikal uniquely combines action points, auctions, and area control on a hex grid and is the first in the Mask Trilogy by Kiesling and Kramer.

Is this suitable for families?

Due to its complexity and recommended age of 10+, it is better suited for experienced players than families with younger children.

What mechanic makes it special?

The blend of action points, auctions, and area majority makes Tikal tactically engaging.

Fazit

Tikal is highly recommended for strategic players who appreciate tactical depth and exploration in a medium-length game. It may be too complex for families with younger children or players new to such mechanics.