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
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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.
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
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
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.
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