Reviews

  • Review: Dewan

    ByiMisut Hours
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    A new day dawns, and with it, our resources continue to dwindle. So much so that we have decided to break camp and explore the surrounding lands to ensure our survival. Whether along the bend of a river or deep in the heart of the mountains, we will search for the resources we lack. As we forge ahead on our journey through forests and deserts, we will keep the precious fire burning to warm us and light our way. Facing the mounting pressure of neighboring tribes, we will stand firm and fight to continue writing our story.

    This is how we are introduced to Dewan, designed by Johannes Goupy (Faraway, Pixies) and Yoann Levet (Turing Machine, Myrmes). It was first published in 2025 by Space Cowboys in a bilingual English and French edition. The artwork is by Arthus Pilorget, marking his debut in the board game industry.

  • Review: Under the Leaves

    ByiMisut Hours
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    If we manage to keep our garden healthy and diverse, it will fill with life and become a sanctuary for fascinating creatures. Hummingbirds and bees are the first to arrive, filling the air with color and movement. But if we stop to take a closer look, we will discover a hidden, unknown world: tiny inhabitants abound among the mushrooms, puddles, and foliage. They live right under our feet, going unnoticed… until we decide to look Under the Leaves.

    This is how Under the Leaves presents itself, a design by Trevor Benjamin and Brett J. Gilbert (Great Plains, Mandala). First published in 2025 by Fractal Games in an English and Spanish edition. The illustrations are handled by Paulina Victoria (Mahé, Big or Bang).

  • Review: Wispwood

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    A curious cat prowls through the woods, lured by flickering lights of all colors dancing among the trees. What could they be? Ah, the wisps of ancient lore! Each one glows with charm and mischief, possessing a personality all its own. Will you be able to guide them properly and make your forest shine the brightest?

    This is the premise behind Wispwood, designed by Reed Ambrose (his debut title). First published in 2025 by CGE in an English edition, the artwork is handled by Štěpán Drašťák, known for the visual style of titles such as Kutná Hora: The City of Silver or Deal with the Devil.

  • Review: The Isle of Cats Duel

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    You are a citizen of Squall’s End on a rescue mission to The Isle of Cats. You must rescue as many cats as possible before the evil Lord Vesh arrives. Each cat is represented by a unique tile and belongs to a family. You must find a way to fit them all onto your boat while keeping families together.

    This is how The Isle of Cats Duel is presented to us, the 2-player version designed by Frank West (The City of Kings, Vadoran Gardens). The game was published in 2024 by The City of Games. Illustrations are handled by the designer himself alongside Dragolisco.

  • Review: Fromage

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    The dawn of the 20th century. You are cheesemakers in a French village, striving to craft, age, and sell artisan cheeses. Your journey will be a symphony of passion and dedication as you work to create the most prestigious fromagerie with the most coveted cheeses in all of France.

    This is the premise of Fromage, a design by Matthew O’Malley and Ben Rosset (both responsible for games such as The Search for Planet X and Between Two Cities). It was first published in 2024 by Road To Infamy Games in English following a successful crowdfunding campaign. The artwork was illustrated by Pavel Zhovba (Formaggio).

  • Review: Luthier

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    We travel to 18th-century Europe, the golden age of classical music. Players step into the shoes of master craftsmen specialized in the construction of musical instruments. Your patrons will be influential nobles, virtuoso performers, and renowned composers such as Bach, Beethoven, or Mozart. To win, you must achieve the highest possible reputation by crafting and repairing instruments in your workshop while satisfying the demands of prestigious patrons. Will you have the skill required to become the most celebrated luthier in all of Europe?

    This is how we are introduced to Luthier, a design by Dave Beck (Distilled) and Abe Burson (his debut game). First published in 2025 by Paverson Games in an English edition following a successful crowdfunding campaign. The artwork is handled by Vincent Dutrait (Heat, Quest for El Dorado) and Guillaume Tavernier (Le Grand Voyage, One Card Wonder).