Periodic: A Game of The Elements

Genius Games, CrowD Games, Ediciones MasQueOca · Board game · 2019
2–5 · best 3 40 min Weight 1.9/5
8.0 rating Ludopedia
6.7 rating BGG
Buy
8.0 rating Ludopedia
6.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

A smart, strategic dive into the periodic table that delights both scientists and curious minds alike.

Highlights
  • Very satisfying resource optimization
  • Snappy and dynamic game pace
  • Organic educational theme
  • Simple and easy-to-learn rules
Keep in mind
  • Requires constant energy planning
  • Can feel quite short for some
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About the game
Ever had that moment where you feel like you're getting smarter while having a blast? That is exactly the vibe with Periodic: A Game of the Elements. Forget those dull chemistry classes from school; here, the Periodic Table becomes your strategic playground! The goal is straightforward but requires some brainpower: you play as a researcher attempting to collect sets of elements to advance along your research track. However, it's not just about grabbing everything in sight.

The real kicker here is energy management. You use this energy to navigate the table, leveraging 'periodic trends' to move intelligently. It's almost like an optimization puzzle: if you waste too much energy on a silly move, you might run short when it's time to complete that crucial element set needed for victory points. The game demands forward thinking, requiring you to plan your routes and decide when to accelerate your research or when to focus on specific goals to secure the win.

The gameplay has a very snappy pace. The game concludes when someone completes their research track or when the goal card stack is depleted, keeping everyone on their toes until the very last second. It is a light, fast-paced game with a very friendly rule weight, perfect for those seeking a strategic experience without needing a 50-page manual. If you enjoy resource optimization, grid movement, and want to level up your scientific knowledge without even realizing it, Periodic is your next must-play!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
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Game details

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Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Tabletopia Series: Science Games (Genius Games) Theme: Chemistry Theme: Science
Publisher Genius Games, CrowD Games, Ediciones MasQueOca, Happy Meeple Games, Lanlalen, Schwerkraft-Verlag, Summon Games, Ігромаг
Designer John Coveyou, Paul Salomon
Artist Tomasz Bogusz
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a game last?
Usually between 40 to 45 minutes, making it great for quick sessions.
Is the game too hard?
Not at all! It has a light weight (1.9/5), meaning the rules are intuitive and easy to pick up.
How many players is it best for?
It works well for 2 to 5 players, but the competitive dynamic really shines with 3 or 4.
Do I need to know chemistry to play?
You don't need to be a master, but the game will teach you basic concepts in a very fun way!
What is the level of strategy?
It's an optimization game. You need to decide wisely how to spend your action points and energy to avoid getting stuck.
Can kids play it?
Yes, especially school-aged kids who enjoy logical challenges.