Ankh: Gods of Egypt

In a surprise plot twist, and in honour of our favourite influencer, we put CMON’s latest creation on the table. It is the classic area-control recipe, only loaded with big, beautiful plastic bits. Unlike Blood Rage and Rising Sun, it had collected positive impressions even from people who do not settle for style over substance, so naturally we had to see what it was about.

At its core, Ankh is quite simple: the gods fight for control of areas and try to establish their position on the map. The rules have logic and coherence, rather than making you wonder why an exception exists simply for the sake of existing. That also does a lot to bring out the Egyptian theme without drowning it in procedure.

Interaction arises naturally through the struggle for areas and the shifting situation on the board. Its nicest trick is the catch-up mechanism: the two trailing gods merge into one, in the hope that they can threaten the leader. It is not merely a patch for whoever falls behind; it is a fresh, clever idea that keeps interest high in the final rounds.

Overall, I found it very enjoyable and a good package, with a nice flow and plenty of twists. It is simply rather expensive for what it ultimately offers—and that is the one point where the god of wallets probably is not smiling.