I barely played any boardgames in 2020 and for the first time in almost 15 years I didn’t follow the new releases closely. I noticed that Arnak was one of the hottest games of 2020 but never looked into it.

After my play, I understand its attraction and I like it. Each turn is an interesting puzzle how to make the most out of the situation at hand. There’s some interaction with the other players in terms of blocking a spot or reaching something first. But it’s on a level that can be expected from a typical modern euro. The theme shined through and elevated the game from an accumulation of well-known mechanisms like action selection and engine building.

I wouldn’t want to play it multiple times in short succession as I’m afraid the norm strategies are a bit too similar but I like to replay it occasionally as I enjoy a good puzzle from time to time.