Yoxii (2022)

About this game

To win Yoxii, you must circle the totem with your strongest pieces. The totem starts in the center of the game board, which has 37 squares and resembles a plus sign. On a turn, move the totem orthogonally or diagonally, either to an adjacent empty space or over any number of pieces of your color to land on an empty space. (You cannot jump the totem over an opponent's piece.) Next, place one of your pieces on an empty space adjacent to the totem; if all adjacent spaces are occupied, place one of your pieces on an empty space on the game board. You have 18 pieces total, five each valued 1, 2, and 3 and three valued 4. When the totem is unable to move, the game ends. Sum the value of each player's pieces adjacent to the totem. Whoever has the higher sum wins; in the event of a tie, whoever has more pieces adjacent to the totem wins.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 1.7/5 this is a light game — explain it in a few minutes, good for a table that has not played much.
• Age. The publisher suggests 8 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.