Atiwa | 999 Games | Strategy Board Game | Nl

Step into the enchanting world of "Atiwa," a captivating board game by renowned designer Uwe Rosenberg. Journey to the southeastern region of Ghana in Africa, where the majestic Atiwa Range stands, adorned with steep-sided hills and lush, evergreen forest reserves teeming with endangered species. Yet, amidst this natural wonder, the land faces perilous threats from logging, hunting for bushmeat, and resource-intensive mining for gold and bauxite.

In the nearby town of Kibi, a visionary mayor has stirred excitement by providing sanctuary to a multitude of fruit bats in his very own garden. This insightful man understands the immense value these seemingly ordinary creatures hold, especially in deforested regions. Fruit bats, slumbering through the day, take flight at twilight, scouring the horizon for food and seeking out suitable fruit trees located miles away. As they feast on succulent fruits, they unwittingly scatter the seeds far and wide, reforesting vast areas as they journey back home. An astonishing testament to their impact, a single colony of 150,000 fruit bats can revitalize up to a staggering two thousand acres of land annually.

Likewise, in the realm of "Atiwa," you will uncover the hidden potential of fruit bats. Once maligned and hunted as mere fruit thieves, these creatures are, in fact, invaluable allies, sowing the seeds of renewal across the country. They play a vital role in restoring fallow land and, in the long run, boosting harvests. This newfound awareness has led to a beautiful symbiotic relationship between fruit bats and fruit farmers. As more families embrace this cooperative spirit, they keep the bats as "pets" to expand fruit farms more rapidly. They preserve tall trees as roosts, offering shelter instead of harvesting them for meager meat. Yet, such harmony demands space, as abundant fruit bats need ample room to flourish.

Immerse yourself in the intriguing gameplay of "Atiwa," where you assume the role of a community leader near the Atiwa Range. Your mission is to create homes for new families, raise awareness about the destructive effects of mining, and emphasize the invaluable contributions of fruit bats to the environment. Navigate the challenges as you expand your territory, manage your resources and animals, and guide your community to prosperity.

Strategically deploy your three workers each round to execute three actions, ranging from enhancing your city through terrain and location cards, to nurturing families, animals, trees, fruit, and most importantly, fruit bats. An ingenious system of action tiles ensures that each round offers diverse possibilities, creating dynamic and engaging gameplay.

However, tread carefully, as certain actions carry environmental consequences. Polluting actions result in pollution tokens that render certain fields on your terrain and location cards unusable until the game's end. While you execute your regular action, seize the opportunity to perform an additional fruit bat action, though it remains optional.

Once all players have set their workers in motion, a maintenance phase follows. Animals reproduce, families require sustenance, and fruits ripen on trees. Notably, the game's most thematic element lies in training families. Educated families gain automatic income, while untrained families must toil for gold, impacting the environment negatively.

"Atiwa" stands as a testament to Uwe Rosenberg's brilliance in crafting a timely and meaningful gaming experience. With insightful themes addressing pressing environmental concerns, this strategic gem provides an immersive and compelling adventure for players. The accompanying booklet further delves into the game's themes, showcasing how each detail has been intricately woven into the gameplay.

Embrace your role as a visionary leader, advocate for environmental consciousness, and harmonize the needs of your community with the wellbeing of the world. "Atiwa" beckons you to unravel the wonders concealed beneath the blood-red moon, where your choices shape the destiny of your people and the cherished lands they call home. Venture forth, dear players, and embark on a journey of strategy, awareness, and the celebration of the intrinsic bond between humans and nature. The legacy of Atiwa awaits your touch!

What's in the box?

• 1 action board
• 2 board expansions
• 4 stock trays
• more than 150 cardboard game pieces
• 88 large square cards
• 200 wooden game pieces
• 1 score block
• 1 pouch
• Game rules