So, the long and the short of this game. Fine as a family game, if a little "overdone" for many families, but for hobby gamers looking for a deeper experience, its a bit on the shallow side. Wonderful presentation of the game and it looks nice. But it's also a game that after a few plays, I just couldn't see the game offering me anything new. Do recommend for folks with casual gamer friends or family as long as the price is right for you.
It's a gorgeous light family game. My wife likes it because she keeps beating me at it. :D I like it because it's a great way to show non-gamers how much the hobby has advanced (in terms of deluxification). There is actually one level up from the one in the vid (deluxe edition + playmat) in that they have acrylic tips and pantry items as well as a set of custom bags to hold them. TBH, I think Flamecraft will replace it in this regard because it feels just as gorgeous but with some co-operative engine building that will hold some interest. But the tea theme will probably cause me to keep my copy for quite a while even if it doesn't see much play. I think the best part of the game is the Easter eggs in the order fulfillment cards.
“Under brewed” is a correct statement from a hobby gamer’s perspective. I initially got it for the looks and possibility to play it with non gamers or as a filler. It didn’t click with the family though and I had seen enough of it after just a few plays, so I sold mine.
In 3 minutes you clearly explained what I wasn't sure about and why I never took the step to purchase it. Now I feel vindicated in not seeking Chai out. Great quick review. Kudos.
We will be doing a full graphics refresh in Feb, but what we do entirely depends on what ideas Steph has that day as she does all the graphics packages :)
Well, i sold my copy of Chai and bought a copy of Canvas, so right there with you. (The version i reviewed of canvas was a friends, just got my own one 3 weeks ago)
Great review Jarrod! When it comes to light-weight games like this, I wonder if there's more pressure on publishers to enhance the component quality to lure buyers who might end up bored after a few plays. 🤔 I've shied away from games like Parks and Wingspan for just this reason.
So, the long and the short of this game. Fine as a family game, if a little "overdone" for many families, but for hobby gamers looking for a deeper experience, its a bit on the shallow side. Wonderful presentation of the game and it looks nice. But it's also a game that after a few plays, I just couldn't see the game offering me anything new. Do recommend for folks with casual gamer friends or family as long as the price is right for you.
Pick this one up here www.miniaturemarket.com/roxste002.html
I tried to order it when I was in the tea for 2 Kickstarter but uhhhhh things happened and sadly I don’t think I’ll have this one anytime soon
I'm glad this Canadian game is getting noticed
It's a gorgeous light family game. My wife likes it because she keeps beating me at it. :D
I like it because it's a great way to show non-gamers how much the hobby has advanced (in terms of deluxification). There is actually one level up from the one in the vid (deluxe edition + playmat) in that they have acrylic tips and pantry items as well as a set of custom bags to hold them.
TBH, I think Flamecraft will replace it in this regard because it feels just as gorgeous but with some co-operative engine building that will hold some interest. But the tea theme will probably cause me to keep my copy for quite a while even if it doesn't see much play.
I think the best part of the game is the Easter eggs in the order fulfillment cards.
“Under brewed” is a correct statement from a hobby gamer’s perspective. I initially got it for the looks and possibility to play it with non gamers or as a filler. It didn’t click with the family though and I had seen enough of it after just a few plays, so I sold mine.
In 3 minutes you clearly explained what I wasn't sure about and why I never took the step to purchase it. Now I feel vindicated in not seeking Chai out. Great quick review. Kudos.
Please bring back the beards of complexity. Then I can once again rejoice at the sight of a neat goatee and think: I might be able to handle this one.
We will be doing a full graphics refresh in Feb, but what we do entirely depends on what ideas Steph has that day as she does all the graphics packages :)
Thanks, this was a very clear and comprehensive overview
I'd put Arch Ravels in this same category; novel, approachable theme with pedestrian mechanics.
Thanks for the video. Haven't played this one yet, perhaps when someone brings it along for a meet up
Canvas easily replaced Chai for me. Gateway game up to 5 players, beautiful components, but less time to setup.
Well, i sold my copy of Chai and bought a copy of Canvas, so right there with you. (The version i reviewed of canvas was a friends, just got my own one 3 weeks ago)
Thanks for review. I've got enough family games, so this is probably not my cup of tea.
Great review Jarrod! When it comes to light-weight games like this, I wonder if there's more pressure on publishers to enhance the component quality to lure buyers who might end up bored after a few plays. 🤔 I've shied away from games like Parks and Wingspan for just this reason.
Fair, I think wingspan has a lot more game to it than this one. And Parks is just "nice" and i kinda forgive it's lack of depth for that reason.