How To Play: Giants

Recently, I got to play Giants with my friends, and boy, was it an adventure! The game’s about strategy, managing resources, and moving statues. We had to use our tribe's powers wisely. After a few rounds, we figured out some neat tricks. It's all about planning and having fun!
Giants: Box Cover Front

Overview

Welcome to the ultimate guide for crushing your friends at Giants! This isn’t just any guide. Here, we lay down the game rules, sprinkle in some of my hilarious game-night disasters, and, most importantly, share the top strategies for securing that sweet victory. From the ‘How To Play giants’ basics to advanced maneuvers, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your tokens, and let’s get to winning!

What’s in the box

  • 1 game board
  • 5 tribe boards
  • 30 Tiki figurines
  • 5 scoring counters
  • 14 tree trunks
  • 6 special action cards
  • 15 resource tiles
  • 80 resource counters
  • 1 first player token
  • 1 volcano tile
  • 12 quarry tiles

How To Play Giants: Rules Summary

So, you’ve got a new board game called Giants, and you’re itching to play but have no clue where to start? Worry not, that’s where I come in. Let me break down the essentials so you and your pals can jump right into the fun. Trust me, it’s simpler than it looks!

Setup

  1. Spread the game board on the table. This island is your new competitive battleground.
  2. Each player picks a tribe. Grab your tribe’s pieces. They’re your key to victory.
  3. Distribute the giants evenly amongst players. These big guys help you move the statues.
  4. Place the statues and resources in their designated spots on the board. They’re what you’re after.

Gameplay

  1. Decide who goes first. Then, take turns clockwise. Fair’s fair after all.
  2. On your turn, you can move a giant, gather resources, or transport a statue. Choices, choices.
  3. Use resources to persuade giants to carry statues to your village. It’s all about negotiation.
  4. Keep an eye on your opponents. You can block their moves or steal resources. Play nice, though.

Winning

  1. The game ends when all statues are secured in villages. Time to see who’s boss.
  2. Count your victory points. You get these from statues and remaining resources.
  3. The player with the most points wins. In case of a tie, the player with the most giant statues wins.

Special Rules & Conditions

  1. Giants won’t move through certain paths without the right resources. It’s like they have a taste for luxury.
  2. Some special actions require specific resource combinations. It’s like a secret handshake.
  3. If a giant drops a statue, it stays where it falls. No take-backs.
  4. Watch out for the special powers of each tribe. They can turn the tide of the game.

And there you have it, folks. Stick to these rules, and you’ll be a Giants master in no time. Just remember, it’s not just about how to play giants; it’s about how to play smart. Good luck!

Best Giants Strategies

Mastering Resource Management in Giants

Winning at Giants isn’t just about being the biggest; it’s about being the smartest with your resources. Getting a grip on resource management and allocation spells the difference between victory and defeat. Here’s how to do it right.

1. Early Game Resource Scouting

  1. Spot and target resource-rich areas quickly.
  2. Plan your movements to minimize waste.

2. Efficient Use of Turns

  1. Balance resource collection with other actions.
  2. Don’t overcommit to one resource type.

3. Resource Trading Strategies

  1. Trade surplus resources with players to build alliances.
  2. Keep an eye on what resources others are collecting and adjust your strategy.

4. Endgame Resource Allocation

  1. Prioritize essential resources that will maximize your endgame score.
  2. Block opponents from obtaining resources critical to their strategy.

Mastering Statue Transportation in Giants: A Game-Winning Approach

In Giants, moving your statues is key to victory. Here’s how to nail it:

Choose Your Path Wisely

  1. Analyze the island’s layout early. Shorter paths mean faster scoring.
  2. Avoid congested routes. They slow you down big time.

Collaborate with Tribes

  1. Trading with tribes gets you access to their routes. It’s a game-changer.
  2. Leverage your giants. They transport statues faster than anyone.

Timing Is Everything

  1. Move when your opponents least expect it. It’s sneaky but effective.
  2. Wait for the right moment. Sometimes, holding off beats rushing in.

Mastering Tribes & Special Powers for Victory

Winning in Giants isn’t just about moving statues; it’s about smart plays with tribes and powers. First off, know your tribes. Each has a unique ability that can turn the tide of the game. Here’s how to leverage them:

Strategic Tribe Selection

  1. Choose tribes based on the current game state – adapt your strategy to match.
  2. Consider the end-game bonuses each tribe offers, and plan your moves ahead.

Maximizing Special Powers

  1. Don’t hoard powers; use them as they become available to maximize benefits.
  2. Coordinate with allies to combine powers effectively, creating powerful combos.

Adaptable Playstyles

  1. Be ready to switch strategies if your current one isn’t working. Flexibility is key.
  2. Watch your opponents’ moves closely and counter their strategies with your tribe’s advantages.

Remember, mastering tribes and their powers is crucial for victory. Use them wisely!

## Master the Giants and Claim Your Victory

Summing it all up, dominating in Giants isn’t just about luck; it’s about strategy, foresight, and sometimes, a bit of daring. We laughed, we argued over the best paths, and we definitely made a few memorable blunders along the way. Remember, using your tribes’ special powers wisely, mastering the art of resource management, and navigating the perilous paths of statue transportation are your keys to success. Don’t forget to keep an eye on your opponents; sometimes, their next move can give you the edge you need to pull ahead. So gather your friends, set up the board, and get ready for a game that’s as challenging as it is fun. May the best strategist win!

Want to know what we think of Giants? Read our detailed review of Giants here

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.