Tholos

Perro Loko Games · Board game · 2021
2 · best 2 15–25 min Weight 1.8/5
6.5 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Buy
6.5 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

For abstract game lovers who enjoy direct interaction and twists. A modern Greek chess where every stone placed is a tactical strike!

Highlights
  • Deep decisions in 20 minutes
  • Direct interaction and comebacks
  • Asymmetric column powers
  • Advanced mode boosts replayability
Keep in mind
  • Limited component variety
  • May frustrate 'take that' haters
  • Counterintuitive scoring at first
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

Tholos is an abstract two-player game where you compete as builders of the famous Delphi temple, vying for influence over this Ancient Greek wonder. Each match is a tactical duel where you collect stones from the quarry (black, white, or neutral) and strategically place them on the temple's seven columns. Each column has a unique power that can turn the tide — from moving opponent's pieces to placing a second stone in one turn. But beware: having majority in a column isn't always good! At the end, you score points for each dominated column, but opponent's stones are worth more and neutral ones might cost you points. The advanced mode adds ornament tiles that modify rules, making the game even more unpredictable. With simple rules but deep decisions, Tholos is perfect for quick, highly interactive games.

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Ancient: Greece Category: Combinatorial Components: Game Box Used In Play Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Digital Implementations: Yucata Organizations: Board Games Association of Creators in Spain (LUDO) Players: Two-Player Only Games
Publisher Perro Loko Games
Designer David Bernal
Artist Jesús Fuentes

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

837owners
224wishlist
21want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
Is Tholos hard to learn?
Not at all! Rules fit on one page, but the depth is in the decisions. You'll grasp it within 2 plays.
Is it good for non-abstract fans?
If you enjoy direct interaction and quick games, it might surprise you. But if you prefer immersive themes, maybe look elsewhere.
What's different in advanced mode?
Ornament tiles change specific rules — like a column scoring for FEWEST stones. Makes the game more unpredictable!
Does it need a big table?
Nope, it's compact! The box itself becomes part of the board, great for travel play.
What similar games exist?
It's like Santorini (asymmetric powers) meets Go (area control), but with unique scoring twists.

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

8 games