Nunatak: Temple of Ice has players build an impressive looking temple.
With blessing of course.
You build a Nunatak (A hill or mountain completely surrounded by glacial ice) step pyramid. But, this game isn’t co-operative, so watch your step!
Nunatak: Temple of Ice Game Overview
Quick Rules Summary
On your turn, you choose a building card from the display, then place one of your blocks on the matching symbol on the current highest level of the pyramid.
If you complete a two-by-two square, you place a block for the next level in the centre and check for scoring. Some cards also give you a Blessing card, which can be used for extra actions during the game or for end-game points.
The aim is to place blocks in positions that score immediately while also setting up scoring opportunities for later through majorities and completed cards.
How do you win?
The game ends when the last piece of the top level is placed. Players finish the current round so everyone has had the same number of turns.
At the end of the game, you add up the points gained during play from block placement, add points for majority bonuses in certain areas, and include any points from completed Blessing cards.
The player with the highest total score wins.
Main Mechanisms
Nunatak uses pattern-based placement on a shared board, combined with area control for scoring majorities. It also includes card drafting, which decides both your placement options and the extra bonuses you might gain.
USP
A three-dimensional pyramid is built as you play, creating a striking centrepiece for the table.
Theme
The ice temple theme is represented well through the physical look of the pyramid, although the gameplay itself is largely mechanical.
Setup
To set up, you assemble the pyramid board, stack the levels in order, shuffle and place the building and blessing cards, and give each player their coloured blocks.
Components & Artwork
The clear plastic blocks are the highlight of the game, giving the temple a strong presence on the table. The cards are clear to read, and the Blessing cards add variety to each game.
Ease of Teaching
Nunatak is straightforward to teach. The turn structure is simple — choose a card, place a block, and score if possible. The only part that may need extra explanation is how sections are completed and how majorities work.
Similar Games
Nunatak is similar to NMBR9 in that you are building upwards while planning based on the top-down view of your structure.
Nunatak: Temple of Ice Review
Positives
The pyramid has strong table presence and looks impressive as it grows.
The game is easy to teach and simple to follow.
Players always have visible goals to work towards, keeping turns purposeful.
Negatives
Strategic depth is limited, which may not appeal to experienced players.
The game works best with more players, as two-player games lack tension and blocking.
Summary
This is a light and accessible game with an impressive table presence that delivers its best experience with more players
Jesta ThaRogue