Scythe
Scythe is a strategy board game set in an alternate-history 1920s Europe. Players compete to gain resources, build structures, and conquer territories using unique factions and mechs, all while balancing their popularity, power, and resources.
How Complex is Scythe?
Scythe has a moderate complexity level, with multiple actions and strategies to consider, but the rulebook is well-written and the game mechanics are intuitive.
How much Luck is involved in the gameplay of Scythe?
Luck plays a minor role in Scythe, with only a few random elements such as encounter cards and factory draws. However, combat and popularity can be affected by luck-based combat cards.
How much Player Interaction does Scythe offer?
Scythe offers moderate player interaction through combat, resource competition, and area control. However, players can also focus on their own engine-building strategies without much interference from others.
How much Replayability does Scythe offer?
Scythe offers high replayability due to the multiple factions, player mats, and randomized encounter cards. The expansion modules also add new gameplay elements and variability.
Why you should play Scythe
Unique and immersive setting
Scythe is set in an alternate history 1920s Europe where mechs and advanced technology are used alongside traditional farming and warfare. This creates a unique and immersive setting that is unlike any other board game.
Strategic gameplay
Scythe is a game that rewards strategic thinking and planning. Players must balance their resources and actions carefully to achieve their goals and outmaneuver their opponents.
Multiple paths to victory
Scythe offers multiple paths to victory, allowing players to pursue different strategies and playstyles. Whether you prefer to focus on military conquest, economic dominance, or technological advancement, there is a path to victory that suits your playstyle.
Beautiful artwork and components
Scythe features stunning artwork and high-quality components that enhance the game's immersive setting and strategic gameplay.
Replayability
With multiple factions, randomized player mats, and variable player powers, Scythe offers a high degree of replayability. No two games are ever the same, ensuring that the game remains fresh and engaging even after multiple playthroughs.
Engaging solo mode
Scythe also offers a challenging and engaging solo mode, allowing players to enjoy the game even when they don't have a group to play with.
Well-balanced gameplay
Scythe is a well-balanced game that rewards skill and strategy rather than luck. This makes it a great choice for competitive players who enjoy games that require careful planning and execution.
Why you should avoid Scythe
Complexity
Scythe can be a complex game to learn and play, especially for new players. The game's rules and mechanics can be overwhelming, and it may take several playthroughs to fully understand how everything works.
Lengthy gameplay
Scythe is a game that can take several hours to play, especially with a full complement of players. This may not be ideal for players who prefer shorter, more casual games.
Limited player interaction
While Scythe is a strategic game that rewards careful planning and execution, it can also be a relatively solitary experience. Players may spend much of the game focused on their own goals and strategies, with limited opportunities for direct interaction with other players.
High price point
Scythe is a relatively expensive game, with a retail price that may be prohibitive for some players.
Theme may not appeal to everyone
While the alternate history setting of Scythe is a unique and immersive one, it may not appeal to all players. Some may find the combination of mechs and traditional farming and warfare to be a bit too fantastical or unrealistic.
Where to find the Rules of Scythe
Check the rules of Scythe in a PDF file.
You can also find the community-driven rules summary, player aid, etc., in the Scythe files section on the BoardGameGeek website. You need an account on BGG to download files.
Beginner Strategies for Scythe
These strategies are for players who have either not played or played one or two games of Scythe.
Focus on resource production
In Scythe, resources are essential for building mechs, structures, and upgrading your player board. Therefore, it's important to focus on producing resources early on in the game. You can do this by building structures that produce resources or by deploying workers to gather resources from the board.
Plan your moves ahead
Scythe is a game of strategy and planning. Before making a move, consider the potential consequences of your actions. Think about how your move will affect your opponents and how it will help you achieve your objectives.
Build mechs early
Mechs are powerful units that can help you control territories and protect your workers. Building mechs early in the game can give you a significant advantage over your opponents.
Control territories
Controlling territories is crucial in Scythe. It allows you to produce resources, deploy workers, and build structures. Try to control as many territories as possible, but don't spread yourself too thin.
Balance your actions
Scythe is a game of balancing your actions. You need to balance your resource production, building structures, deploying workers, and moving mechs. Don't focus too much on one aspect of the game at the expense of others.
Keep an eye on your opponents
Pay attention to what your opponents are doing. Try to anticipate their moves and plan accordingly. Don't let them take control of the game.
Complete objectives
Objectives are an important part of Scythe. They can give you a significant advantage over your opponents. Try to complete objectives as early as possible to gain the benefits they offer.
I hope these strategies help you get started with Scythe. Good luck and have fun!
Advanced Strategies for Scythe
Use your player board efficiently
As you become more familiar with Scythe, you'll start to understand the importance of using your player board efficiently. Try to plan your actions in a way that maximizes the benefits of your player board upgrades.
Be flexible
While it's important to have a plan in Scythe, it's also important to be flexible. Don't be afraid to adjust your strategy based on what your opponents are doing or how the game is progressing.
Use your mechs strategically
Mechs are powerful units in Scythe, but they can also be expensive to build and maintain. Use your mechs strategically to control territories, protect your workers, and intimidate your opponents.
Pay attention to the popularity track
The popularity track is an important aspect of Scythe. It can give you significant benefits, such as extra resources or combat cards. Try to maintain a high level of popularity throughout the game.
Take advantage of encounters
Encounters are a unique aspect of Scythe that can give you significant benefits, such as resources, combat cards, or even mechs. Try to take advantage of encounters whenever possible.
Plan for endgame scoring
Scythe is a game that rewards players for planning ahead. Try to plan your actions in a way that sets you up for endgame scoring opportunities, such as completing objectives or controlling territories.
Don't neglect combat
While combat isn't the only way to win in Scythe, it can be an important aspect of the game. Don't be afraid to engage in combat if it's necessary to achieve your objectives.
I hope these advanced strategies help you take your Scythe gameplay to the next level. Good luck and have fun!
