Shadows in the Forest

Kraul, ThinkFun · Board game · 1985
6.4 Ludopedia 6.0 BGG 2–8 · best 5 15 min Weight 1.1/5
Buy
6.4 rating Ludopedia
6.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Looking for a unique and immersive game experience? Shadows in the Forest uses darkness to its advantage! Perfect for families and kids seeking something out of the ordinary.

Highlights
  • Unique immersive experience
  • Great for kids and families
  • Fast and easy to learn
  • Creative and fun theme
Keep in mind
  • One player has different role
  • Requires low ambient light
  • Might be too simple
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready for a unique adventure in "Shadows in the Forest," where darkness is your ally and light, your greatest enemy! Imagine yourself lost in an ancient, dark forest, with only a lantern to guide you, casting spooky shadows all around. The goal? To discover the legendary creatures hiding in the shadows, the "Shadowlings." One player takes on the role of the lantern keeper, moving it across the board and illuminating the forest. This light, of course, casts real shadows on the game, creating an immersive atmosphere and a visual challenge unlike anything you've experienced. Meanwhile, the other players control the "Shadowlings," elusive creatures who must stay out of the light's beam. If a "Shadowling" is caught by the light, it becomes enchanted and immobile, needing to be freed by its companions. Cooperation is key: the "Shadowlings" must unite under a tree to win, while the lantern keeper tries to capture them all. With simple rules and a quick playtime, "Shadows in the Forest" is perfect for families and anyone seeking a different, suspenseful experience. It's a game that truly puts you in the action, testing your strategy and teamwork in a completely unexpected setting. A great way to break the routine and create fun memories!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

5 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–8 players
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST
6 REC
7 OK
8 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: Lights / Lamps / Candles Players: One versus Many Theme: Trees and Forests
Publisher Kraul, ThinkFun
Designer Walter Kraul

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

4,748owners
988wishlist
146want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
What is the recommended age for Shadows in the Forest?
The game is recommended for children aged 5 and up, but the alternative version can be played by children up to 7 years old with supervision.
How many players can participate?
The game accommodates 2 to 8 players, with one player controlling the lantern and the others controlling the creatures.
How long does a game take?
Games are quite fast, lasting about 15 minutes.
Do you need to play in complete darkness?
It's best to play in a dimly lit environment so that the shadows cast by the lantern (or candle) are clearly visible and create the game's atmosphere.
What is the main objective of the game?
The objective for the players controlling the creatures is to gather under a tree, while the player with the lantern tries to stop them by capturing them with the light.
Is the game cooperative or competitive?
It's a cooperative game among the players controlling the creatures, but they compete against the player controlling the lantern. It's one versus many, with internal cooperation.
Is an adult required to play?
The original version requires an adult player as it uses a real candle. The alternative version does not require an adult, but adult supervision is recommended.

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