Today we’re diving into “Harmonies”, a tile-laying game from Libellud, set in a peaceful world where you craft tranquil landscapes and habitats for various animals. So, let’s break it down – what it is, what’s good, what’s bad, and if you should pick it up. Let’s get into it.
What It Is
“Harmonies” is a tile-laying board game designed by Johan Benvenuto and published by Libellud. It’s for 1-4 players and typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes to play. The core premise is simple: players take on the role of landscape architects, each crafting their own serene environment filled with various terrains and animals. Your goal is to create harmonious landscapes that are both visually pleasing and strategically sound.
Gameplay Mechanics
In this game, players take on the role of puzzle-builders, each with their own board and a central board where groups of colored discs are drawn from a bag. On your turn, you’ll select a group of these discs and place them on your board, following specific placement rules. Certain colors can only be placed on designated spaces, and stacking is allowed based on these rules. The goal is to arrange your discs to match patterns depicted on Animal Cards, which you can draft during your turn. Completing these patterns allows you to place scoring cubes on your board, with points calculated from the highest uncovered cube at the game’s end.
The stacking mechanic adds an extra layer of strategy, as completing a pattern not only earns you points but also restricts further placement in that area. Once a scoring cube is placed, it cannot be covered by additional discs, forcing players to carefully plan their moves. The game progresses until the bag of discs is empty, or a player has two or fewer groups remaining, at which point the final scoring is tallied. Players score points from completed Animal Cards and specific features on their boards, such as forests, mountains, rivers, and buildings.
An advanced variant introduces unique Animal Cards for each player, offering an additional strategic element. The game’s components are of high quality, with vibrant wooden pieces and beautifully illustrated cards. However, some players may find the stacking rules slightly challenging to grasp at first, and a player aid would have been helpful in streamlining the learning process. Despite its straightforward mechanics, the game offers a surprising amount of strategic depth, making it both accessible and engaging.
One potential frustration lies in the game’s reliance on luck, particularly in drawing the right combination of discs or cards at critical moments. This can occasionally lead to situations where a player completes a pattern effortlessly, while others may struggle to find the pieces they need. Additionally, the game’s focus on individual puzzle-solving can make it feel somewhat solitary, with limited interaction between players beyond the occasional blocking move. However, the game’s short playtime and multiple scoring avenues help balance these elements, making it more enjoyable for a broader audience.
What really sets this game apart is the relaxed, almost meditative experience it offers. Unlike other puzzle-based games that can be stressful or intense, this one encourages a more laid-back approach. The ability to adapt your strategy on the fly—whether by focusing on pattern completion or building up landscape features—adds depth without overwhelming players. This balance of strategy and serenity makes the game appealing to a wide range of players, from casual gamers to those looking for a more contemplative experience.
When compared to other games in the genre, such as Cascadia or Calico, this game distinguishes itself with its compact design and more constrained play area. While some may find the limited space and strict placement rules challenging, others will appreciate the focused gameplay that these elements create. The game’s flexibility in scoring and the satisfaction of completing patterns offer a unique and rewarding experience.
The Components
“Harmonies” is a visual treat. The components are top-notch, with vibrant, nature-inspired artwork that perfectly captures the game’s tranquil theme. The landscape tiles are sturdy and easy to handle, and the animal tokens are intricately designed, adding a charming touch to the game. The production quality is excellent, ensuring a tactile and immersive experience that complements the gameplay.
The Good
First off, “Harmonies” is incredibly accessible. The rules are easy to understand, making it a great choice for families and casual gamers. Despite its simplicity, the game offers a surprising depth of strategy that will keep even seasoned gamers engaged. The ability to rotate and flip tiles before placing them adds a satisfying layer of complexity, rewarding thoughtful planning and spatial reasoning.
The game’s theme and artwork are another highlight. The serene, nature-inspired visuals make for a relaxing experience, and the process of crafting your own landscape is both enjoyable and rewarding. The game’s flexibility in player count and the inclusion of a solo mode also make it versatile, whether you’re looking for a quick solo challenge or a more social, competitive experience.
The Bad
While “Harmonies” has a lot going for it, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The game can feel a bit short, especially if you’re just getting into the groove of your strategy when it ends. However, this can be mitigated by using the flip side of the player boards, which extends the gameplay and provides a more immersive experience.
Another point to consider is that, while the game offers strategic depth, it might not be challenging enough for players who crave highly competitive or complex gameplay. The game’s relaxing nature and focus on creating visually pleasing landscapes might not appeal to those looking for a more intense, cutthroat experience.
The Verdict
So, should you buy “Harmonies”? If you’re a fan of nature-themed games with a focus on relaxation and strategy, then absolutely. The game’s beautiful components, accessible rules, and satisfying gameplay make it a standout choice for anyone looking to unwind with a light yet engaging board game.
For families and casual gamers, “Harmonies” is an excellent addition to your collection. It’s easy to pick up, visually stunning, and offers just enough strategic depth to keep everyone engaged. The flexibility in player count and the inclusion of a solo mode are added bonuses that enhance its replayability.
However, if you’re someone who prefers more competitive or complex games, “Harmonies” might not be your cup of tea. It’s a relaxing game that’s more about enjoying the process of creating than outsmarting your opponents.
Final Thoughts
As someone who loves cozy, nature-themed games, I have to say that Harmonies really hit the spot for me. From the moment I started arranging those charming terrain tiles and placing my adorable animal cubes, I was completely captivated.
The game just has this wonderful sense of tranquility and relaxation to it. There’s something so soothing about carefully planning out your habitat placements, trying to maximize your scoring while also providing the perfect homes for all those furry critters. And the visual payoff of seeing your landscape come together is incredibly satisfying.
Now, I will admit that the game can feel a bit on the short side at times. There were a couple plays where I felt like I was just starting to really hit my stride when the game suddenly ended. But then we tried out the flip side of the player boards, and that extra length was perfect – it gave me the time I needed to really immerse myself in the experience.
And you know, even when the game does wrap up quickly, it’s still such a delightful time. I love how every game ends up looking so unique, with each player’s landscape reflecting their own creative approach. It’s fun to admire what everyone’s built and see the different strategies people employed.
So if you’re in the mood for a calming, nature-themed game that’s easy to learn but still offers some solid strategic depth, I can’t recommend Harmonies highly enough. It’s the perfect game to curl up with on a rainy day, a warm drink in hand, as you lose yourself in the peaceful world of habitat creation. Just be prepared to get a little attached to those adorable animal tokens!
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