Board Game Review - Sushi Go!

Sushi Go! is an adorable sushi collecting, family card game. This simple and fun game for 2-5 players was produced by Gamewright and is poised to become a family classic. Aimed at ages 8+ it is a highly accessible game for (almost) all ages. You can even make it more accessible by removing the chopsticks, and thus, the exchange mechanic.

Although made for a younger audience, I have found this game to be a wonderful addition to my board-game collection. It has been played in a variety of situations. As avid board game enthusiasts we often use it to introduce friends and family members to new games. This game is one which is a great door opener. It is quick to play and simple enough that anyone can understand it. In just a few minutes, you can go from opening the game, through the rules and straight into playing. When playing with more experienced board-gamers, we often use it as an opening game before digging into a more complex one. Though simple to play it is great for getting your mind working. There is not an insignificant amount of strategy to playing Sushi Go! What cards you choose to take from your hand, and when, can make or break your score.

There are eight types of sushi cards in the game, some score points directly, others multiply a future card's points, or are part of a set and only earn the player points if they can complete the set. It may seem difficult to remember but Gamewright have made it easier by noting on the cards themselves what points you can earn from that card, or the modifier it gives. The only card type which doesn't give or subtract points (yes there are opportunities to remove some of your opponents points too) is the chopsticks card. This, when taken, counts as your card for the turn, on a subsequent turn you can put it back into a hand to then take two other cards from it again. This tactic can be risky but can reap great rewards. Say you are collecting sets and there are no useful cards in the current hand. If you know that there are useful cards in the next hand you can take the chopsticks now to claim two useful cards from the next hand. Be careful though, because others may take those cards before you get chance to!

Overall, I would rate this game highly for it's ease of access and aesthetic. It comes in a small portable bin and can be played almost anywhere. Easy to pick up, teach and play, it is a great option to have around. The creators have done a wonderful job of crafting a colourful, durable, family friendly game. It is easily one of my favourite games for day to day play because of it's diverse range of play opportunities and honestly, who can resist how adorable those sushi are?

Thank you for reading this review. I hope you enjoyed it!