I love Isle of Cats and all its expansions. So I was happy to see that there will be a Duel version. But I have question. From the rules explanation alone I can't really see what exactly the Duel-character of this is? Why not just play a 2-player game of Isle of Cats? Where is the advantage of the duel version compared to the 2-player-base-game? Maybe you can elaborate a bit on this?
Hi @feijee8937, I’d summarise the differences as follows: The Isle of Cats Duel is a more interactive and competitive experience, whereas the original game is more passive. In The Isle of Cats, you’re generally focused on your own board, aiming to achieve the best score possible. In contrast, The Isle of Cats Duel emphasises “getting more points than your opponent,” which is a subtle but significant shift in focus. The core mechanic of moving the Oshax is as much about securing what you want as it is about denying your opponent. You’re not just playing for yourself but also influencing the options available to both players. This back-and-forth dynamic creates the “duel” experience. The game involves constant trade-offs-balancing what you want, what your opponent needs, and what you’re willing to let them have to gain access to something you value. Of course, Duel also offers the benefits of being smaller, faster, and more portable. Ultimately, I’d say that those wanting a more interactive, competitive game will enjoy The Isle of Cats Duel, while those who prefer a more passive, individual experience may favour the original. I hope this helps!
Thank you for your reply. I have a better idea now how to justify to myself and my wife why I also need this game. Just like I needed all the other games and expansions and big boxes in this universe. I love Isle of cats. @@CityofGamesHQ
Not sure how much this game is necessary when you already have Isle of Cats and especially with all expansions. I personally prefer the card drafting in the original and don't find the new board system very exciting. Both games suffer from the same thing, luck of the draw. Sometimes you have all the resources but no tiles in sight that would benefit you. I would like a rule where if half +1 tiles are the same color, all tiles get discarded and new ones are pulled out of the bag.
Hi @nedeljkodukic7279, The Isle of Cats Duel and The Isle of Cats are designed to offer different experiences. If card drafting is a highlight for you, the original game may indeed be more enjoyable. The Isle of Cats Duel's board system focuses on being more deterministic and strategic, which might not suit everyone’s preferences. Regarding luck of the draw, The Isle of Cats Duel includes 45 cat tiles, and you’ll encounter at least 40 during a game, with cards offering chances to see even more. While specific colours may not appear every round, the game allows for more confident planning than the original game, as those colours are very likely to surface in later rounds. However, I would say adapting to what comes out can often lead to unexpected opportunities and exciting moments in the game. I hope you continue to enjoy The Isle of Cats, and I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.
Great work, really easy to understand cant wait to play it today
Thank you very much, I hope you enjoy the game!
Excellent, really clear explanation
Thank you Adrian!
I need to play this ASAP! So happy you made a duel version!
I really hope you get a chance to soon, it is a lot of fun!
I love Isle of Cats and all its expansions. So I was happy to see that there will be a Duel version. But I have question. From the rules explanation alone I can't really see what exactly the Duel-character of this is? Why not just play a 2-player game of Isle of Cats? Where is the advantage of the duel version compared to the 2-player-base-game? Maybe you can elaborate a bit on this?
Hi @feijee8937,
I’d summarise the differences as follows: The Isle of Cats Duel is a more interactive and competitive experience, whereas the original game is more passive. In The Isle of Cats, you’re generally focused on your own board, aiming to achieve the best score possible. In contrast, The Isle of Cats Duel emphasises “getting more points than your opponent,” which is a subtle but significant shift in focus.
The core mechanic of moving the Oshax is as much about securing what you want as it is about denying your opponent. You’re not just playing for yourself but also influencing the options available to both players. This back-and-forth dynamic creates the “duel” experience. The game involves constant trade-offs-balancing what you want, what your opponent needs, and what you’re willing to let them have to gain access to something you value.
Of course, Duel also offers the benefits of being smaller, faster, and more portable. Ultimately, I’d say that those wanting a more interactive, competitive game will enjoy The Isle of Cats Duel, while those who prefer a more passive, individual experience may favour the original.
I hope this helps!
Thank you for your reply. I have a better idea now how to justify to myself and my wife why I also need this game. Just like I needed all the other games and expansions and big boxes in this universe. I love Isle of cats. @@CityofGamesHQ
It looks really cool but I'm a bit sad it is only for two players since we are always at least 3-4 people in my playgroup
I completely understand, The Isle of Cats Duel wont be for everyone. The original The Isle of Cats game is perhaps a better fit for your group!
@CityofGamesHQ yes, we love the original in my group. So much that two of us own the game
Just buy the other two isle of cats games?????
Or buy multiple copies so you can accommodate sets of 2! 4, 6, 8...
So you wanted a game that already exists? Just play the regular one. This one is a duel.
Not sure how much this game is necessary when you already have Isle of Cats and especially with all expansions.
I personally prefer the card drafting in the original and don't find the new board system very exciting.
Both games suffer from the same thing, luck of the draw. Sometimes you have all the resources but no tiles in sight that would benefit you. I would like a rule where if half +1 tiles are the same color, all tiles get discarded and new ones are pulled out of the bag.
Hi @nedeljkodukic7279,
The Isle of Cats Duel and The Isle of Cats are designed to offer different experiences. If card drafting is a highlight for you, the original game may indeed be more enjoyable. The Isle of Cats Duel's board system focuses on being more deterministic and strategic, which might not suit everyone’s preferences.
Regarding luck of the draw, The Isle of Cats Duel includes 45 cat tiles, and you’ll encounter at least 40 during a game, with cards offering chances to see even more. While specific colours may not appear every round, the game allows for more confident planning than the original game, as those colours are very likely to surface in later rounds. However, I would say adapting to what comes out can often lead to unexpected opportunities and exciting moments in the game.
I hope you continue to enjoy The Isle of Cats, and I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.