Almadi

Funnyfox · Board game · 2021
7.1 Ludopedia 6.7 BGG 2–5 · best 2 30–45 min Weight 2.1/5
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7.1 rating Ludopedia
6.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

For spatial puzzle lovers with a thematic twist. Almadi is like strategic sudoku that would addict Sheherazade.

Highlights
  • Satisfying chain-reaction combos
  • Tactical choices every round
  • Theme blends well with mechanics
  • Quick and replayable
Keep in mind
  • Limited direct interaction
  • May feel too abstract for some
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About the game

What you do in a play session

In Almadi, you’re the architect of Sultan Shahryar’s new kingdom, building a realm worthy of 1001 Nights. The game blends abstract strategy and spatial puzzling: you’ll place landscape tiles (like palaces, oases, and markets) on a personal grid, triggering chain effects as tiles connect. Each placement can activate abilities from adjacent pieces, creating satisfying combos. Scoring comes from your kingdom’s layout, collected rubies, and secret objectives. Despite the rich theme, gameplay is straightforward—perfect for pattern thinkers and space optimizers. Interaction is indirect (competing for central tiles) but enough to keep tension. In 30-45 minutes, Almadi delivers an elegant experience with tactical decisions every round and that 'just one more move' itch to perfect your territory.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–5 players
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC
5 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Animals: Camels Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Mythology: Arabian
Publisher Funnyfox
Designer François Gandon, Mathieu Bossu
Artist Victor Dulon

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

601owners
175wishlist
26want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
Best player count?
Great at 2-4. With 5, the central board gets tighter, which may slightly lengthen the game.
Language-dependent?
Yes, but only needs a reference sheet — tile icons become intuitive after one play.
Good for beginners?
Yes! Rules are simple, but strategic depth keeps veterans engaged.
How does it differ from other tile-layers?
The chaining effects and personal grid (vs. shared map) give it a unique identity.
Luck-based or pure strategy?
90% strategy — the only randomness is tile order on the central board.

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