# Castilian Shadows

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2026
- **BGG Rating**: —
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 2
- **Duration**: 5-15 min
- **Weight**: —
- **Designers**: Vadrya Pokshtya
- **Publishers**: (Web published)
- **Categories**: Abstract Strategy, Deduction, Memory
- **Mechanics**: Deduction, Memory, Player Elimination, Secret Unit Deployment, Square Grid, Variable Set-up

## Verdict
Castilian Shadows is a must-try for two-player strategy fans. The hidden pieces and deduction mechanics make every move thrilling.Combines deduction and strategy in an addictive way.Perfect for those who love intense two-player games.Surprise revelations keep the game unpredictable and exciting.Balances luck and skill well.May be challenging for beginners due to adapted chess rules.Focus on two players might not suit larger groups.Risk of a draw could frustrate those wanting quick wins.HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FOR ABSTRACT STRATEGY AND DEDUCTION GAME FANS.

## Description
Castilian Shadows is a two-player abstract strategy game played on a 4x4 board. All 16 pieces are hidden under neutral tokens, and neither player knows what's beneath each one. The setup is fully random—16 chess pieces (2 queens, 2 rooks, 2 knights, and 2 bishops per color) are shuffled and placed randomly. Neutral pieces move and capture like a king—one square in any direction. When a neutral moves (quietly or by capture), it reveals its true identity and becomes the corresponding white or black piece. From then on, it follows standard chess rules. A captured neutral is eliminated permanently without revealing its secret. The goal is to eliminate all 8 of your opponent's pieces. White starts first. If 16 consecutive moves pass without a capture, the game ends in a draw. Every move carries risk—you might awaken a powerful queen or a useless bishop. Capturing an opponent's neutral removes its identity. Victory goes to those who master uncertainty and cold calculation.

## FAQ
### How many players?
It's exclusively for two players.

### How long does a game take?
It lasts between 5 and 15 minutes, depending on luck and skill.

### Is it hard to learn?
The rules are simple, but mastering the strategy takes practice.

### What are the components?
Only a 4x4 board and 16 hidden pieces under neutral tokens.

### Who is it for?
Ideal for fans of abstract strategy, deduction, and two-player games.