Imhotep

KOSMOS, Arclight Games, Devir · Board game · 2016
2–4 · best 4 40 min Weight 2.0/5
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
How to Play Buy · from US$ 2.27
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Imhotep is a clever and accessible game for those who enjoy a good dose of interaction and tactical decisions, perfect for a game night with friends!

Highlights
  • Simple mechanics, strategic depth
  • Direct and fun interaction
  • Immersive 3D components
  • High modular board replayability
  • Ideal game durations
Keep in mind
  • Occasional 'kingmaking' possible
  • Strategy requires constant adaptation
  • Little variation in initial setup
RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
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About the game
In Imhotep, you step into the shoes of an ambitious builder in Ancient Egypt, inspired by the legendary architect Imhotep. Your mission is to erect magnificent monuments, but the competition is fierce, and your rivals will try to thwart your plans at every turn! Over six rounds, the game's dynamic revolves around the strategic movement of stone blocks. Each player, on their turn, has four crucial options: gather new stones for their personal supply, load these stones onto one of the available boats, sail a loaded boat to one of the five monument sites, or play a special action card to give that extra 'boost'. Sounds simple, right? But the magic of Imhotep lies in the constant interaction and tough decisions. Where will you unload your stones? Which monument will yield the most points? And, most importantly, how will you ensure your opponents don't benefit more from your own stones? The game is a true tug-of-war of timing and positioning. Each round, the monument sites offer different scoring opportunities, encouraging adaptation and flexible planning. The one who masters the art of transporting and unloading their stones at the right times and locations, outsmarting the other builders, will be crowned Egypt's greatest architect!
Expansions
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Imhotep English · PDF
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BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST
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Game details

Categories

Families

Ancient: Egypt Components: 3-Dimensional (3D) Constructions: Pyramids Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Digital Implementations: BrettspielWelt Digital Implementations: Yucata
Publisher KOSMOS, Arclight Games, Devir, Galakta, Giochi Uniti, IELLO
Designer Phil Walker-Harding
Artist Michaela Kienle, Miguel Coimbra
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for Imhotep?
A game of Imhotep usually takes between 40 to 60 minutes. It's a dynamically paced game, perfect for a shorter session or as a warm-up for game night.
How many players can play Imhotep?
Imhotep is designed for 2 to 4 players. The interaction changes slightly depending on the number, but the fun and strategy remain consistent across all configurations.
What is the complexity level of Imhotep?
It's considered a light to medium complexity game (BGG weight of 2.0163). The rules are easy to learn, but the strategic depth emerges from tactical decisions and player interaction.
Are the components of good quality?
Yes! Imhotep is known for its sturdy wooden components and the 3D monument pieces that add a very cool and immersive visual touch to the game.
Is Imhotep a good game for board game beginners?
Absolutely! Its accessible rules and engaging gameplay make it a great entry point into the hobby, yet with enough depth to keep experienced players interested.
Is there any language dependency in the game?
The language dependency is moderate. Action cards have text, but there are online translations or reference sheets available that make it much easier for non-English speakers.
What is the ultimate goal in Imhotep?
The goal is to accumulate the most victory points, which are earned by unloading your stones at the right monuments and in the best positions, in addition to end-game bonuses and action cards.