Kemet: Box Cover Front
Kemet - Bringing creatures to bear in a battle. - Credit: kilroy_locke
Kemet - Fighting over a temple! - Credit: kilroy_locke
Kemet - First game.  I was told it's dumb to take pyramids because owner will just take them right back.  Challenge Accepted - Credit: Gutrender
Kemet - This photo was taken at Setagaya Game Club on May 19, 2013, where I played Kemet with my friends. - Credit: moonblogger
  1. Kemet: Box Cover Front
  2. Kemet - Bringing creatures to bear in a battle. - Credit: kilroy_locke
  3. Kemet - Fighting over a temple! - Credit: kilroy_locke
  4. Kemet - First game.  I was told it's dumb to take pyramids because owner will just take them right back.  Challenge Accepted - Credit: Gutrender
  5. Kemet - This photo was taken at Setagaya Game Club on May 19, 2013, where I played Kemet with my friends. - Credit: moonblogger

Kemet Review

Kemet is an exhilarating board game that offers intense battles, strategic depth, and stunning components. Its replayability factor makes it a must-have for any fan of ancient Egyptian-themed games.
  • Gameplay mechanics
  • Components and artwork
  • Replayability
  • Strategy and tactics
4.5/5Overall Score

Quick Summary

Kemet is an intense and strategic board game set in ancient Egypt. With its innovative gameplay mechanics, such as asymmetrical player powers and a dynamic battle system, players are constantly engaged and challenged. The game's stunning components and artwork further immerse players in the rich Egyptian theme. With endless replayability and multiple paths to victory, Kemet offers a fresh and exciting experience with each playthrough. If you're a fan of intense battles and strategic decision-making, Kemet is a must-have addition to your board game collection.

Specs
  • Number of players: 2 - 5 players
  • Playing Time: 90 minutes
  • Recommended player age: 14 years and above
  • Game Designer: Jacques Bariot, Guillaume Montiage
  • Publisher: Matagot
  • Playing Complexity: Moderate
Pros
  • Intense gameplay
  • Stunning components
  • Immersive artwork
  • Varied player strategies
Cons
  • Long playing time
  • Not suitable for young players
  • Moderate complexity may be challenging
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Overview

Welcome to our review of Kemet, an exhilarating strategic board game set in the ancient world of Egypt. In this review, we will explore the various aspects of the game, including its innovative gameplay mechanics, captivating components and artwork, endless replayability, and strategic depth. With its asymmetrical player powers, dynamic battles, and multiple paths to victory, Kemet delivers an engaging and immersive experience that will leave players coming back for more. Join us as we delve into the exciting world of Kemet and discover why this game is a must-have addition to any board game collection.

How It Plays

Setting up

To set up Kemet, players must first assemble the game board and place the various pieces such as pyramids, obelisks, and temples in their designated locations. Each player is then assigned a faction and given their corresponding player boards, miniatures, action tokens, and power tiles. The divine intervention cards and battle cards are shuffled and placed within reach. With the setup complete, players are ready to embark on their conquest for dominance in ancient Egypt.

Gameplay

Kemet is played over a series of rounds, with each round consisting of three phases: the Day phase, the Night phase, and the New Dawn phase. During the Day phase, players take turns spending action points to recruit and upgrade their troops, build pyramids, research power tiles, and acquire divine intervention cards. In the Night phase, battles occur as players clash in epic conflicts, wielding their power cards to gain the upper hand. The New Dawn phase marks the end of the round and is a time for players to recover their used action points, calculate victory points, and prepare for the next round.

Winning the game

The objective of Kemet is to amass victory points and be crowned the ruler of ancient Egypt. Victory points can be gained through a variety of actions, such as winning battles, controlling key locations, acquiring power tiles, and fulfilling certain conditions unique to each player’s chosen faction. The game ends when a player reaches the predetermined victory point threshold. The player with the most victory points at the end of the game emerges as the conqueror of Kemet.

With its immersive gameplay and strategic depth, Kemet provides players with an exciting and dynamic gaming experience. Now that we have a basic understanding of how the game is played, let’s delve further into its mechanics, components, and overall enjoyment factor in the following sections of this review.

Want to know more? Read our extensive strategy guide for Kemet.

Kemet is an intense and engaging game that boasts a myriad of innovative gameplay mechanics, making it a must-play for any board game enthusiast. From its asymmetrical player powers to its action point system, there are plenty of exciting elements to keep players on their toes.

Blood, Sweat, and Combat: Dynamic Battle System

One of the standout features of Kemet is its dynamic battle system. Unlike many other strategy games, where battles are determined solely by dice rolls, Kemet allows players to strategically choose the cards they want to play during combat. These cards add a layer of decision-making and bluffing to the game, ensuring that every battle is an intense and suspenseful affair.

Unique Asymmetrical Player Powers Provide Varied Strategies

Kemet stands out from other games in its genre by offering a wide variety of asymmetrical player powers. Each player starts with a different set of abilities and advantages, which greatly impacts their strategy and approach to the game. Whether you prefer aggressive playstyles or prefer a more defensive approach, there’s a player power combination that caters to your preferred playstyle.

Strategic Action Point System Keeps Players Engaged

The action point system in Kemet is another brilliant aspect of its gameplay mechanics. Each turn, players have a limited number of action points that they can allocate to various actions, such as recruiting troops, upgrading pyramids, or launching attacks. This system forces players to make tough decisions and prioritize their actions, keeping the gameplay exciting and strategic. The strategic depth provided by the action point system ensures that every move counts and can potentially lead to victory or defeat.

A Sight to Behold: Components and Artwork

In addition to its engaging gameplay mechanics, Kemet is visually stunning, thanks to its stellar components and artwork. The game features intricately designed miniatures that are not only a pleasure to look at but also add to the immersive experience. The artwork on the game board and cards is richly detailed and captures the essence of the ancient Egyptian theme perfectly.

Durable and Eye-catching Miniatures

The miniatures in Kemet are a collector’s dream. They are sculpted with remarkable attention to detail and have a solid construction, making them durable and long-lasting. The stunning detail on these miniatures adds an extra layer of immersion to the gameplay, making every battle feel epic and impactful.

Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish: Endless Replayability

Kemet is a game that begs to be played over and over again. Thanks to its plethora of gameplay options, no two games are ever the same. The asymmetrical player powers, strategic actions, and dynamic battles provide countless combinations and strategies to discover and master.

The game also includes multiple paths to victory, allowing players to pursue different strategies and adapting their playstyle to the ever-changing landscape of the game. This high level of replayability ensures that Kemet remains fresh and exciting even after multiple playthroughs.

With its ingenious gameplay mechanics, breathtaking components, and endless replayability, Kemet offers an exhilarating gaming experience that will leave players begging for more. So, strap on your Egyptian headdresses and prepare for an epic battle because the next section will captivate you with the thrilling strategies and tactics of Kemet.

Kemet - Bringing creatures to bear in a battle. - Credit: kilroy_locke

When it comes to strategy and tactics, Kemet offers a wealth of options that will challenge even the most seasoned gamers. With its asymmetrical player powers, strategic action point system, and dynamic battles, players must carefully plan their moves and adapt their strategies as the game unfolds.

Unleash Your Strategic Brilliance

Kemet rewards players who can think several steps ahead and devise cunning strategies. The unique asymmetrical player powers provide a thrilling twist to the game, as each power comes with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully leverage their chosen power to maximize their chances of victory, whether it’s through aggressive military dominance or strategic control of key territories.

Control and Dominate Key Obelisks and Temples

A vital element of success in Kemet lies in strategically capturing and controlling obelisks and temples. These locations grant various powerful bonuses, such as additional action points or divine intervention cards. Epically tailored strategies can revolve around the possession of these pivotal points on the game board.

Timing is Everything: Tactical Resource Management

Kemet is a game where timing is everything. With the limited action point system, players must carefully allocate their resources and plan their actions strategically. Should they focus on building up their pyramids for long-term benefits, or prioritize recruiting troops for immediate military strength? Players will need to assess the situation and make tactical decisions that can potentially make or break their chances of success.

A Visual Feast: Components and Artwork

Beyond its strategic depth, Kemet delights the senses with its stunning components and captivating artwork. From the intricately designed tokens to the beautifully illustrated cards, every aspect of the game is a treat for the eyes.

Thoughtful Design and Quality Components

The components in Kemet are not only visually appealing but also well-designed and of high quality. The game utilizes durable game tiles and sturdy player boards that withstand numerous playthroughs. The attention to detail, from the hieroglyphic symbols to the thematic illustrations, adds to the overall immersive experience.

Immerse Yourself in the Rich Egyptian Theme

The captivating artwork in Kemet perfectly captures the allure of ancient Egypt. The game board transports you to a mystical world bathed in rich colors and stunning illustrations. The atmospheric artwork on the cards enhances the immersion, bringing the theme to life with every turn.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of strategy and tactics in Kemet, get ready to feast your eyes on the breathtaking components and artwork in the upcoming section. Prepare to be enchanted by the visual spectacle that awaits!

Kemet - Fighting over a temple! - Credit: kilroy_locke

Kemet not only delivers an immersive and strategic gameplay experience but also captivates players with its top-notch components and stunning artwork. Every aspect of the game, from the meticulously designed miniatures to the vibrant illustrations, adds to the overall charm and visual appeal.

Magnificent Miniatures: Enhancing the Gaming Experience

Kemet takes tabletop gaming to a whole new level with its exquisite miniatures. Each miniature is intricately sculpted and beautifully detailed, adding a touch of grandeur to the game. The miniatures perfectly reflect the grandiose scale of the battles taking place in the game, making each encounter visually gripping.

Distinctive Miniatures for Each Faction

In a game where player powers are asymmetrical, it comes as no surprise that the miniatures are tailored to each faction’s individual theme and identity. From the intimidating serpent god of the Egyptians to the fearsome war elephants of the Asians, the miniatures in Kemet not only serve as gameplay components but also visually represent the narrative and essence behind each faction.

High-Quality, Durable Components

The components of Kemet exude quality and durability. The game utilizes sturdy player boards, detailed game tiles, and thick cardstock for its cards. Each component is designed to withstand repeated gameplay sessions, ensuring that Kemet continues to impress for years to come.

An Artistic Masterpiece: Immersing Players in Ancient Egypt

The artwork in Kemet is simply breathtaking. The game board, with its intricate illustrations of Egyptian landscapes and structures, transports players to an ancient world steeped in history and mythology. The graphical design seamlessly blends vibrant colors with thematic elements, further immersing players in the rich tapestry of ancient Egypt.

Thematic and Detailed Card Illustrations

The cards in Kemet are not just functional, but they also serve as windows into the world of ancient Egypt. Each card features stunning illustrations that bring the different units, action cards, and divine intervention cards to life. The attention to detail and thematic consistency is evident in every card, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

A Harmonious Blend of Form and Function

What sets the artwork in Kemet apart is its seamless integration with the game’s mechanics. The illustrations don’t just serve as decorative elements; they provide important visual cues and information, enriching the gameplay. From easily identifiable icons to clear visual indicators of each unit’s abilities, the artwork harmoniously coexists with the functional aspects of the game.

Infinite Excitement: Endless Replayability

With its engrossing gameplay mechanics, captivating artwork, and high-quality components, Kemet guarantees endless replayability. No two games will ever be the same, as players explore different strategies, engage in epic battles, and witness the stunning visual spectacle the game offers.

The components and artwork in Kemet create an immersive experience that will leave you coming back for more. So, prepare to embark on countless new adventures in the ancient world as the next section delves into the boundless excitement and replayability of Kemet.

Replayability is one of the standout features of Kemet, ensuring that players will keep coming back for more action-packed battles and strategic maneuvering. With its myriad of tactical choices, asymmetrical player powers, and multiple paths to victory, Kemet offers virtually limitless possibilities, guaranteeing a fresh and exciting experience with each playthrough.

Varied Strategies: Unleash Your Creativity

One of the key factors that contribute to the replayability of Kemet is the multitude of strategies players can employ. With the unique player powers, players can experiment with different approaches and playstyles, be it building an impregnable defense, unleashing devastating attacks, or adopting a balanced strategy. The diverse strategies ensure that each game feels unique and full of surprising twists and turns.

Ever-Changing Battlefield: Dynamic Board State

In Kemet, the strategies you employ in one game may not work in the next, thanks to the dynamic nature of the game board. The shifting alliances, capturing and losing control of key locations, and the evolving power balance among the players inject a high level of variability into each playthrough. This ever-changing battlefield adds an element of unpredictability and keeps players engaged, strategizing on the fly.

Multiple Paths to Victory

In Kemet, victory can be achieved through various paths, adding depth and intrigue to the gameplay. Whether it is amassing victory points through battles and temple control, unlocking divine upgrades, or mastering the intricacies of the game’s power tiles, players have numerous avenues to explore on their quest to claim victory. The multitude of victory paths ensures that no two games will ever feel alike, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.

Expand Your Tactical Repertoire: Power Tiers

Another aspect that enhances the repeatability of Kemet is the power tiles system. These tiles, divided into three tiers, provide players with unique abilities, advantages, and strategic options. Each tier progressively unlocks as the game progresses, opening up different avenues for players to explore. The use of power tiles not only encourages players to adapt their strategy based on the available options but also adds an element of surprise as new tiles are revealed, further enhancing replayability.

Strategic Depth: Bluffing and Counterplay

Kemet offers a rich tapestry of bluffing and counterplay opportunities. With its dynamic battle system, players must carefully choose which cards to play during combat, factoring in potential bluffs and second-guessing their opponent’s moves. The depth of strategic decision-making and the need to react to the actions of other players ensure that each game is a mental battle of wits, where victory hinges on sharp thinking and adaptability.

Overall, the exceptional replayability of Kemet makes it highly recommended for any avid board game enthusiast. With its varied strategies, ever-changing battlefield, multiple paths to victory, and depth of tactical options, Kemet offers a fresh and engaging gameplay experience with each playthrough. Prepare to embark on countless epic battles and strategic conquests as you step into the rich world of ancient Egypt.

Kemet - This photo was taken at Setagaya Game Club on May 19, 2013, where I played Kemet with my friends. - Credit: moonblogger

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kemet is a phenomenal board game that excels in all aspects. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, including the dynamic battle system and strategic action points, keep players engaged and on their toes. The visually stunning components and intricate artwork transport players to the ancient world of Egypt, adding to the immersive experience. With endless replayability, thanks to the varied strategies, multiple paths to victory, and ever-changing battlefield, Kemet continues to deliver exciting and fresh gameplay experiences time after time. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or a board game enthusiast looking for an immersive gaming experience, we highly recommend adding Kemet to your collection. This concludes our review of Kemet.

4.5/5Overall Score
Jamie in his proper element: With all of his board games
Jamie Hopkins

With years of dice-rolling, card-flipping, and strategic planning under my belt, I've transformed my passion into expertise. I thrive on dissecting the mechanics and social dynamics of board games, sharing insights from countless game nights with friends. I dive deep into gameplay mechanics, while emphasizing the social joys of gaming. While I appreciate themes and visuals, it's the strategy and camaraderie that truly capture my heart.