In the world of tabletop games, there are those that stand out not just for their unique mechanics but also for their thematic appeal. Herbaceous, designed by Steve Finn and Eduardo Baraf, and produced by Pencil First Games, is one such gem. Released in 2017, it brings a soothing yet strategic experience to the table, perfect for those looking for a refreshing change of pace.
The main genre of Herbaceous is set collection, which is paired with sub-genres of push your luck and pattern building. In this tranquil game, you find yourself in the role of a green thumb, meticulously curating your garden with a variety of flavorful herbs.
The gameplay is simple yet engaging. On your turn, you’ll draw an herb card from the deck and decide whether to place it in your private garden or the communal garden. The catch is, you must decide where to place the card before you reveal it, adding a delightful dash of uncertainty to each turn. The game ends when all the cards have been drawn and players score based on sets of herbs they have collected.
What makes Herbaceous unique is its balance of strategy and serenity. It’s not just about amassing the most valuable herbs, but also about biding your time and deciding when to pot your herbs. The player tokens, represented by colorful pots, are a visual treat that adds to the theme of the game. Each pot has specific requirements for the types of herbs it can hold, and deciding which pot to use for which set of herbs is where the pattern building comes into play.
The resources in this game are the herb cards themselves, representing various types of herbs that you are trying to collect and pot. Each herb has its own value, and certain combinations can yield higher scores, simulating the act of growing and harvesting herbs in a real garden.
If you enjoy the set collection and pattern building elements of Herbaceous, you might also enjoy Sushi Go! and Azul. Sushi Go! shares the set collection genre, where you’re trying to gather the most delicious combination of sushi dishes. It’s fast-paced and fun, with adorable artwork that will make you smile.
Azul, on the other hand, shares the pattern building sub-genre with Herbaceous. In Azul, you’re a tile-laying artist decorating a Portuguese palace, and you must carefully plan your moves to create specific patterns and score points. Like Herbaceous, Azul is a feast for the eyes, with beautiful components and a soothing theme.
In conclusion, Herbaceous is a delightful game that mixes strategy and serenity in a unique way. Its unique gameplay, coupled with its appealing theme, makes it a standout choice for those looking for a calming yet engaging gaming experience.
