Tiny Towns

1-6

Players

Minutes

14+

Age

2019

Published

Designer Peter McPherson
Publisher Alderac Entertainment Group , All In Games , Arrakis Games , Broadway Toys LTD , CMON Global Limited
Illustration Gong Studios , Matt Paquette & Co.

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What to Expect

In Tiny Towns, you act as the mayor of a small hidden town where you place resource cubes on a 4x4 grid to build buildings in specific patterns. Each building scores victory points uniquely. You must plan carefully since resources are limited and empty spaces at the end cost points. The game ends when no more placements or buildings are possible.

Who Is This Game For?

This game suits hobby and family gamers with some experience who enjoy abstract strategy and puzzle elements. With a playtime around 60 minutes, it demands strategic thinking and patience. A solo mode is included, allowing single-player gameplay.

How It Works

Tiny Towns uses mechanics like Pattern Building, Grid Coverage, and End Game Bonuses. Each turn, players place resource cubes to complete building patterns on their 4x4 grid. Strategic placement and chaining buildings is key. The game finishes when no player can build or place more resources, with empty spaces causing penalties.

End Game Bonuses Follow Grid Coverage Pattern Building Player Elimination Solo / Solitaire Game

What Makes It Special

Designed by Peter McPherson, Tiny Towns was nominated for several 2019 awards including Golden Geek Board Game of the Year. It blends abstract strategy with city-building puzzles and features a solo mode. It belongs to the family of games with 4x4 grids and wooden components.

Awards

Nominated
2019

2019 Board Game Quest Awards Best Family Game — Nominated
2019 Cardboard Republic Architect Laurel — Nominated
2019 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
2019 Mensa — Recommended

Pro

Unique blend of city-building and puzzle mechanics
Includes solo mode
Multiple family game award nominations in 2019
Approx. 60-minute playtime fits well into game nights

Contra

Recommended for ages 14 and up, not ideal for young children
Complexity requires strategic planning and patience
May be challenging to teach to beginners

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in a small hidden forest town where woodland creatures have built a secret civilization, the game combines abstract city-building with a natural animal theme.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus first on recognizing patterns on your grid and plan resource placement with future buildings in mind.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Yes, Tiny Towns includes a solo mode for single-player play.

How long does a game really take?

A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for an evening session.

What prior experience do I need?

This is a hobby-level abstract strategy game requiring some experience with puzzle mechanics.

How does this compare to similar games?

Tiny Towns uniquely combines city-building with pattern building on a small grid, differing from traditional worker-placement games.

Is this suitable for families?

Yes, for families with older children (14+), considering the complexity and game length.

What mechanic makes it special?

Its use of Pattern Building, Grid Coverage, and End Game Bonuses sets it apart.

Fazit

Tiny Towns is recommended for players who enjoy abstract strategy puzzles and solo play. It's less suitable for younger families due to complexity.