Yin Yang

BGNations, Capstone Games, Jing Studio · Board game · 2019
8.3 Ludopedia 7.2 BGG 1–4 · best 3 Solo 45–75 min Weight 2.8/5
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8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy delving into historical themes with a mystical touch and love strategy games that blend area control with a dash of luck, Yin Yang is for you! The experience is quite immersive, putting you in the role of a Taoist priest exploring Ancient China. It's a game that challenges you to plan your moves, but also to adapt to what destiny (or the dice) has in store for you. The overall impression is of a solid game, with well-integrated mechanics and a captivating theme.

Highlights
  • Immersive and original theme
  • Innovative divination mechanic
  • Strategy with adaptability
  • Multiple paths to victory
  • Engaging area control
Keep in mind
  • Element of luck present
  • May not appeal to euro purists
  • Initial learning curve
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Embark on a journey through Ancient China with Yin Yang, a game that delves into the dualistic philosophy of Yin and Yang, representing opposing principles like feminine and masculine, light and darkness. The setting transports us to the turbulent Warring States period, a time of intense conflict between seven kingdoms and great suffering for the populace. In search of inner peace and answers to an uncertain future, various divination methods were developed, and one of them, which uses a tortoise shell with copper coins, forms the basis of Yin Yang's core mechanics.

Assuming the role of Taoist priests, players explore a detailed map of China, traveling through cities to collect local specialties. This process is crucial for unlocking their own destinies and progressing in the game. In addition to exploration and collection, priests can also erect temples in different cities, seeking the worship of the seven kingdoms and expanding their influence. The rolling of copper coins in the tortoise shell is not just a thematic element, but an innovative mechanic that determines the actions and paths available to players, adding a layer of unpredictability and strategy. With multiple paths to victory and abundant strategic decisions, Yin Yang promises a unique experience for those seeking a strategy game with a touch of mysticism and history.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–4 players
1 REC
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Country: China Crowdfunding: Zeczec
Publisher BGNations, Capstone Games, Jing Studio, Spielefaible
Designer DuGuWei
Artist Carton

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

688owners
278wishlist
52want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
What is the average playtime for Yin Yang?
A game of Yin Yang typically lasts between 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the number of players and the group's familiarity with the rules.
How many players can play Yin Yang?
Yin Yang can be played by 1 to 4 players, offering both solo and group experiences.
What is the complexity level of the game?
With a BGG weight of 2.7778/5, Yin Yang is considered a medium-complexity game. It's not super simple, but it's also not overly difficult to learn.
What are the main components of the game?
You can expect an Ancient China map, monk pawns, local specialty tokens, copper coins, and the iconic tortoise shell for the divination mechanic, along with other markers and cards.
Is Yin Yang a good game for board game beginners?
For beginners, there might be an initial learning curve, but the mechanics are well-integrated, and the theme aids immersion. It's more suitable for those who already have some experience or are willing to delve a bit deeper.
Does the game involve a lot of luck?
Yes, the central 'divination' mechanic with the copper coins introduces an element of luck. However, the game still requires significant strategy to optimize your actions and adapt to the outcomes.

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