As a seasoned board gamer and someone who has played “Distilled” numerous times, I can confidently say that this game is an absolute gem in the world of strategy card games. “Distilled” excels in several areas, making it a must-have for any game night.
Theme and Immersion
One of the standout features of “Distilled” is its incredibly strong theme. The game immerses you in the world of crafting spirits, from the very first turn. You inherit a distillery and work your way up to becoming a master distiller, which is a captivating journey filled with rich thematic elements. The artwork, game components, and narrative all contribute to a highly engaging experience that truly makes you feel like you’re part of the distilling world.
Ease of Setup, Play, and Teaching
“Distilled” is refreshingly easy to set up, play, and teach. The game components are well-designed, making the setup process quick and straightforward. The rules are clearly laid out and intuitive, allowing new players to grasp the mechanics without feeling overwhelmed. This ease of play extends to teaching the game as well; even those new to strategy games will find themselves comfortably crafting spirits in no time.
Gameplay and Strategy
The gameplay in “Distilled” is where it truly shines. It’s a delightful mix of resource management and push-your-luck elements that keep every game session exciting and unpredictable. You’ll use cards to purchase new ingredients and invest in upgrades to your distillery, all while strategically planning your next moves. The thrill of distilling a spirit and sending it to the warehouse to age adds a layer of anticipation and satisfaction that’s hard to beat.
Multiple Paths to Victory
What I love most about “Distilled” is the variety of ways to win. Whether you’re focusing on distilling high-quality spirits, investing in distillery upgrades, or strategically managing your resources, there are numerous paths to achieving the title of Master Distiller. This variety keeps the game fresh and replayable, as each session can unfold differently based on the strategies you and your opponents employ.
Conclusion
“Distilled” is a highly thematic strategy card game that masterfully blends resource management and push-your-luck mechanics. Its strong theme, ease of setup and play, and multiple ways to win make it an exceptional addition to any board game collection. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the hobby, “Distilled” offers an enjoyable and immersive experience that’s sure to become a favourite at your gaming table.
Highly recommended!
Happy gaming!
By John Bancroft
