# Shifting Stones

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2020
- **BGG Rating**: 6.5
- **BGG Rank**: #2983
- **Players**: 1-5 (Best with: 2)
- **Duration**: 20 min
- **Weight**: 1.17 / 5
- **Designers**: J. Evan Raitt
- **Artists**: Kwanchai Moriya
- **Publishers**: Gamewright, AURUM, Inc., FoxMind Israel, Magellan, Piatnik, Studio Supernova
- **Categories**: Abstract Strategy, Ancient
- **Mechanics**: Contracts, Grid Movement, Hand Management, Pattern Building, Pattern Recognition, Race, Square Grid

## Verdict
If you love fast puzzles and strategic choices, Shifting Stones gives you exactly that with a fun card‑sacrifice mechanic.Quick to learnHigh replay valueGreat solo experienceCard sacrifice can feel harshPattern variety limitedRECOMMENDED

## Description
In Shifting Stones, you face a 3×3 grid of nine mystic tiles that look like ancient stone ruins. Each game starts with the tiles placed randomly, and your goal is to rearrange them to match one or more patterns you hold in your hand. The patterns are shown on cards that depict specific symbol arrangements or positions. Every time you swap or flip a tile, you must sacrifice a card from your hand, creating the classic dilemma of "how much is the extra score worth?". The game blends hand management, pattern recognition and building, plus square‑grid movement, all in a quick 20‑minute playtime. You can play solo, trying to optimise each sacrifice, or compete against up to four opponents, where the race to fulfil contracts and score points gets tense. The board itself is simple – just a 3×3 grid – but depth emerges from the variety of pattern cards and the need to plan each move ahead. Artwork evokes ancient stone and enigmatic symbols, reinforcing an archaeological mystery vibe. Although the weight is low (1.17/5), the strategy demands focus, especially as your hand shrinks. In the end, the player who engraves the most points in stone wins. It’s perfect for fans of abstract puzzles, short sessions, and a light competitive edge.

## FAQ
### How many players can play?
1 to 5 players, including a solo mode.

### How long does a game take?
Approximately 20 minutes, varying with player count.

### What is the game's complexity?
Lightweight (weight 1.17/5), suitable for beginners and abstract game fans.

### What components are included?
Nine square tiles, pattern cards, sacrifice cards, and a scoring marker.

### Who is the game best for?
Puzzle lovers, abstract strategy enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a quick play.

## Price Comparison
### Best Offers in Brazil
- **Amazon**: R$ 172,57 (https://www.amazon.com.br/dp/B086Y9569P?tag=bgbot26b-20&linkCode=as2)
  - See all on Compara Jogos: https://www.comparajogos.com.br/item/shifting-stones

### Best International Offers
- **BoardGamePrices.com**: $ 22.42 (https://boardgameprices.com/item/go?source=A&storeitemid=6077810&utm_source=boardgamesbot.com)
  - See all on BoardGamePrices: https://boardgameprices.com/item/show/36813/shifting-stones?utm_source=boardgamesbot.com