Abyss
The Abyss power is once again vacant, so the time has come to get your hands on the throne and its privileges. Use all of your cunning to win or buy votes in the Council. Recruit the most influential Lords and abuse their powers to take control of the most strategic territories. Finally, impose yourself as the only one able to rule the Abyssal people!
30m - 60m
2 - 4 Players
Ages 14+
alexgrim
It landed surprisingly well in my collection. I didn't expected it to get such good reactions from my friends and myself. The rules before trying it out seemed very foggy and strange, but once played, the game shines with its pure originality. And it's not just original to be original and therefore very clumsy, it's original, fresh and polished, it has some mechanics, that feel new, work great and makes this game unique. In advance it has amazing art design, it's beautiful, and though it's lore is not described too well, the theme is strong and it feels great. As for the components - they are all really good, especially I like pearls as currency, awesome idea.
2020BoardGames
I simply adore the artwork, unique Merfolk theme, and clever bidding system mechanic in Abyss. And as a sucker for game components, I also really enjoy the plastic oyster cups and pearls -- these are absolutely great components to fiddle with throughout the game as you contemplate your next move. Designer Bruno Cathala often has bidding elements in his games, and Abyss sports my favorite version in its Explore the Depths action. Without getting to deep in to the rules, it's just neat as everyone gets to decide to wait or press there luck spending pearls to recruit the available ally. The game is relatively lightweight and I find it easy to teach as the board graphically lays out the three options on your turn as 3 distinct rows, exploring the depths, calling the senate, and recruiting a lord. This is not the easiest game for me to get to hit a table, but a game rarely takes over 30-45 minutes. This is most often an opening game if 3-4 people don't feel like jumping directly in to a heavier game.
alphafox
Exactly what I love in a board game... strategic game play, multiple choices, stunning artwork and components, easy and quick to learn, great design, combination of luck and strategy and FUN. Always want to play it again when the game ends. So glad I own this one