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Kodama: The Tree Spirits

Action Phase Games, Capsicum Games, Devir · Board game · 2016
2–5 · best 3 30 min Weight 1.6/5
7.4 rating Ludopedia
6.7 rating BGG
Buy
7.4 rating Ludopedia
6.7 rating BGG
Buy
Our Verdict

Kodama is a charming and strategic game that will appeal to those who enjoy creating something visually appealing while thinking about their moves. It's a great choice for relaxing and having fun!

Highlights
  • Beautiful art and engaging theme
  • Creative and accessible mechanics
  • Satisfying to see the tree grow
  • Quick and easy to learn
Keep in mind
  • Can have a bit of luck
  • Indirect player interaction
  • Requires attention to detail
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Hey everyone! Ready to tend to the forest? In Kodama: The Tree Spirits, you take on the role of a caretaker for the Kodamas, the tree spirits, and your mission is to make the woods a healthy and vibrant home for these little friends. Over three rounds that simulate the seasons, you'll plant and cultivate your tree, adding flowers, insects, and arranging branches just right. The goal is to make your Kodama as happy as possible, because at the end of each season, it will award you points if your tree meets its needs. It's a game that blends strategy with a touch of luck, where you need to plan carefully where to place your cards so they fit together and still leave room for future growth. The art is beautiful, and the mechanics are clever, making Kodama a super charming and fun game for the whole family. Get ready to watch your tree grow and hope it pleases the spirit that inhabits it!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC
5 REC
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Game details

Mechanics

Layering Set Collection Tile Placement

Categories

Abstract Strategy Card Game

Families

Country: Japan Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Game: Kodama Mechanism: Partially overlapping cards Mechanism: Tableau Building Organizations: Game Designers of North Carolina Series: Small Box Big Fun (Action Phase Games) Theme: Nature Theme: Trees and Forests
Publisher Action Phase Games, Capsicum Games, Devir, Gémklub, Indie Boards & Cards, KOSMOS, Pendragon Game Studio
Designer Daniel Solis
Artist Kwanchai Moriya, Mirko Suzuki, Scott Hartman
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for Kodama: The Tree Spirits?
A game of Kodama typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on the number of players and their familiarity with the rules.
How many players can participate?
The game is for 2 to 5 players. It works well at all counts, but can become a bit more tactical with more people.
Is Kodama a difficult game to learn?
No, the complexity is considered low to moderate. The basic rules are simple, but strategies can deepen as you play.
Do I need to translate the cards?
The game has moderate language dependency. We recommend having a translated reference for the cards or printing a guide to help understand the icons and effects.
Who is Kodama best suited for?
It's perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a beautiful game with a light theme and interesting mechanics, without being overly complex.
What is the main objective of the game?
The goal is to cultivate the happiest tree for your Kodama by combining flower, insect, and branch cards according to its preferences at the end of each season to score points.
Are the components good quality?
Yes, the game usually features good quality components, with a highlight on the beautiful card illustrations that add a special charm to the experience.
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