Yamataï
Yamataï at your next game night?
Add Yamataï to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Yamataï to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
- Designer Bruno Cathala , Marc Paquien
- Publisher Days of Wonder , Rebel Sp. z o.o.
- Illustration Jérémie Fleury
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
In Yamataï, players compete to build palaces, torii gates, and their own buildings in the mythical land of Yamataï. Each turn, players draft action tiles to collect ships, place them on a modular board, and either claim resources or construct buildings. The ship placement follows specific rules that require careful planning. Specialists with unique powers support your strategy as you expand your networks and accumulate points.
Who Is This Game For?
Yamataï targets experienced gamers aged 13 and up who enjoy complex strategy games. With an 80-minute playtime, it demands patience and thoughtful planning. Players familiar with worker placement or engine-building mechanics will find the challenges rewarding, while newcomers may need time to adapt to the diverse actions.
How It Works
The core mechanic is action drafting, where players select tiles showing colored ships to collect and place on the board. Ships connect to form networks on a modular board. After placement, players may claim resources or build structures using contracts and employ specialists with unique abilities. The game round ends upon triggering specific conditions, followed by scoring buildings, specialists, and money.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Bruno Cathala and Marc Paquien, Yamataï was nominated in 2017 for the Golden Geek Best Board Game Artwork & Presentation. It uniquely blends action drafting with network and route building on a modular board, set in the cultural context of Japan and China, combining resource management with strategic construction.
Awards
2017
Pro
- Strategic depth through action drafting and network building
- Modular board offers varied gameplay each session
- Specialists with unique powers expand player options
- Nominated for Golden Geek Artwork & Presentation 2017
Contra
- Complex placement rules can deter new players
- Around 80 minutes playtime requires commitment
- Not recommended for players under 13
Setting & atmosphere
The game is set in the land of Yamataï, embedded in the mythology and culture of Japan and China. Players build settlements and expand trade routes within this historical theme.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on understanding the action tiles and strategic ship placement before engaging with specialists.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yamataï is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 80 minutes, considered an extended session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced players familiar with complex action selection and network building.
How does this compare to similar games?
Yamataï combines action drafting and network building on a modular board, distinguishing it from classic worker placement games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age limit of 13+, Yamataï is better suited for experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Action Drafting, Contracts, and Network and Route Building shapes its unique gameplay.
Fazit
Yamataï is a recommended game for experienced players who seek strategic depth and varied actions. The complex placement rules require familiarity but add to its distinctive gameplay.
Yamataï at your next game night?
Add Yamataï to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Yamataï to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
