Yellow & Yangtze
- Designer Reiner Knizia
- Publisher Grail Games , 17wanzy (Yihu BG) , Lavka Games , Maldito Games , Matagot
- Illustration Vincent Dutrait
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Yellow & Yangtze, players lead their dynasties through the Warring States period of ancient China by placing hexagonal tiles to build civilizations. You use five different leaders—Governor, Soldier, Farmer, Trader, Artisan—to collect points in these categories. The twist is that your final score is the lowest score among these categories. Conflicts arise when civilizations connect, requiring players to manage unrest and build pagodas to succeed.
Who Is This Game For?
Yellow & Yangtze targets experienced players aged 14 and up who enjoy strategic civilization games. With a playtime around 90 minutes, it demands patience and tactical thinking. It is not a family game but suited for those familiar with complex mechanics like Hand Management and Area Majority.
How It Works
Players spend Action Points to perform actions on a hex grid, placing tiles to control territory and influence areas. Hand Management governs how you deploy your five leaders to score points in different categories. Scoring uses a Highest-Lowest system, where your final score is determined by your weakest category. Hidden victory points add strategic uncertainty.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Reiner Knizia, Yellow & Yangtze is the sister game to Tigris & Euphrates and was nominated for the 2018 Meeples Choice Award. It combines classic civilization mechanics with an innovative scoring system focusing on the lowest category. Player screens and hex tiles enhance tactical depth.
Awards
- 2018 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Innovative Highest-Lowest scoring system emphasizes balanced development
- Strategic hand management with five distinct leaders
- Tactical depth through area majority and conflict resolution
- Historically rich setting of the Warring States China
Contra
- No solo mode for single players
- Complexity and duration require experience and patience
- Not suitable as a family game due to strategic depth
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in ancient China during the Warring States period (475-221 BCE), before unification under the Qin dynasty. The Yellow and Yangtze rivers are central to the map and theme.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on developing all five categories evenly to avoid losing points due to a weak area.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Yellow & Yangtze 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 90 minutes, plus setup time for tiles and player screens.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced to expert players familiar with mechanics like Hand Management and Area Majority.
How does this compare to similar games?
Yellow & Yangtze is the sister game to Tigris & Euphrates, differing by its Highest-Lowest scoring and use of player screens.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and minimum age of 14, it is less suitable for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The unique Highest-Lowest scoring system bases your final score on your weakest category.
Fazit
Yellow & Yangtze is recommended for strategic players who appreciate complex civilization games and conflict management. It is less suited for families or casual gamers.
