Neko Syndicate

Combo Games (II), 25th Century Games · Board game · 2024
8.2 Ludopedia 7.3 BGG 1–4 · best 2 Solo 20–40 min Weight 2.7/5
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8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy a quick game with a cute theme of mafia cats and an addictive puzzle mechanic, Neko Syndicate is for you! It's one of those 'thinky-fillers' that makes you think without taking all night.

Highlights
  • Original and fun theme
  • Innovative tableau mechanic
  • Fast to play and set up
  • Satisfying strategic challenge
Keep in mind
  • Low player interaction
  • Can be a bit complex
  • Few rounds to plan
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready to enter the feline underworld of Mininogata in Neko Syndicate! Here, the control of sushi production and distribution rests in the paws of rival clans, all eyeing the succession of the old Kumichō. You'll lead one of these mafia cat clans, showing who has the best strategy to please the supreme leader and inherit his raw fish empire. The game challenges you to build an efficient chain of command, represented by a pyramidal card structure that acts as your personal board and action tree. With limited action points each turn, you'll need to be clever to cook the perfect sushi and deliver it to the right zones, fulfilling prestige-scoring missions. You have only 15 rounds to prove your worth and accumulate the maximum points, so every move counts! Neko Syndicate is the kind of game that deceives: it seems simple and fast (easy setup, simultaneous play, around 30 minutes), but it hides a tactical depth that will make you rack your brain. It's a 'thinky-filler' with an innovative tableau-building mechanic, where cards are both your tools and your objectives. Player interaction is low, focusing more on your own efficiency and optimization. Perfect for those who enjoy a strategic puzzle with a light and fun theme, but don't be fooled, the challenge to master it is significant!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–4 players
1 BEST
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Animals: Cats Continents: Asia Country: Japan Food & Drink: Sushi Mechanism: Tableau Building Theme: Anthropomorphic Animals
Publisher Combo Games (II), 25th Century Games
Designer Dani Garcia
Artist Jennifer Giner

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,909owners
618wishlist
87want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
What is the average playtime for Neko Syndicate?
A game of Neko Syndicate usually lasts between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the number of players and how familiar they are with the rules.
How many players can participate?
The game is for 1 to 4 players, offering an interesting solo experience and also working well in a group.
Is Neko Syndicate a difficult game to learn?
It's described as 'easy to play, hard to master.' The basic rules are simple, but optimizing actions and building your tableau require good strategic planning.
Is there a lot of player interaction?
Interaction is quite low. The main focus is on your own strategy and building your tableau to complete missions. Don't expect much direct conflict.
Who would you recommend Neko Syndicate to?
We recommend it for those who enjoy quick games with a light and fun theme, but who don't shy away from a good strategic challenge and puzzles. It's great for 'warming up' or 'closing' a game night.
Is the mafia cat theme well represented in the mechanics?
Yes! The construction of the chain of command, the delivery of 'orders' (sushi), and the competition for influence fit very well with the feline and organized crime theme.

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