Tigris & Euphrates

Whenever Tigris & Euphrates reaches the table, the same question comes back like a curse: why are we not playing games this good more often? This is one of those rare, proper things that needs no defence. It just needs four people prepared to blame one another for the disaster that is about to happen.

You build kingdoms by laying tiles across the board, then install leaders to claim the four coloured kinds of influence. On your turn you have two actions: enough to grow, secure a position, or make that innocent-looking placement which joins two kingdoms and abruptly ends all polite conversation.

Conflict, both internal and external, is the centre of it: two leaders in one kingdom, or two rivals brought together when territories connect, must settle the matter. Collecting cubes is not enough. You need your colours in balance, so you watch what the other player needs and deny it before they get there. Friendships will be betrayed here. Quite rightly.

Our table descended into swearing, curses, and appeals to underworld gods, which is exactly the social temperature this game wants. If you have not played it, find a group of four who understand the assignment and get it to the table; Tigris & Euphrates will reward you, provided you are not asking for mercy.