Hive – A Terrific 2-Player Game
While it may be hard to call Hive a “board game” (since there is no board), it’s very easy to call it a fantastic 2-player game. In fact, it didn’t take long for Hive to rocket onto our favorite family board games list.
Hive may have a simple objective and simple rules, but that doesn’t mean it’s not loaded with strategy. In fact, we think it’s the simplicity that makes this family board game so appealing.
Take a peek at this great board game in Trevor’s video review of Hive to see how to play and what it’s all about. (Hint, Trevor gives Hive one of his highest ratings.)
Can the whole family enjoy Hive?
Without a doubt!
While the recommended ages on the box are 9-99 we don’t think you should hold it back from kids younger than 9. In fact, younger kids will love playing with these fantastic insect tiles and moving their pieces around. Sure they may not grasp the strategic elements right from the start, but they won’t care about that.
But Hive isn’t just a kids’ game either. It’s also a great board game for adults or teenagers who want a good head-to-head challenge. In fact, dad frequently challenges Trevor and Jaden to matches (or re-matches when they beat him). Trying to surround the other player’s queen bee with insect tiles can get a little tricky when they’re good at thinking strategically.
Durable components can’t be beat
The insect tiles in Hive are expertly crafted. They’re nice and bulky, made of durable materials, feel great in your hands, and have great insect images on each. In fact, mom gets creeped out by the spider tiles because the spider image is realistic and she hates spiders. They can also be cleaned up really easy – which makes them perfect for playing outside as well.
Have game, will travel
As you can see in the video review and the photos, Hive comes with a cool travel bag that makes it easy to take the game with you wherever you go. You don’t have to worry about odd size boxes (even though the Hive box is small) fitting in with your travel plans. When we hit the road last week, it was a no-brainer to grab Hive and toss it in our travel case. And if you’re just heading to the park for a picnic, just grab the Hive bag and you’ve got a fun game with you.
And because Hive is such a great 2-player game with durable tiles and a cool travel bag, dad will be taking with him and the boy scouts when they go on their week long scout summer camp in July. From experiences at previous scout camps we know that the scouts love strategic 2-player camps. And we’re sure Hive will be a hit.
How much luck is involved in Hive?
Hive is all about strategy. There isn’t any luck involved in the game because every piece you place and every movement you make is completely up to you. You also can see exactly what your opponent can do so you can plan accordingly in order to anticipate their moves.
How does Hive score on the “Let’s Play Again” meter?
I don’t think we’ve every just played a single game of Hive. Hive scores super high on our “Let’s Play Again” game meter for a few reasons. The first is that it plays so quickly. While some games make take a little longer, our games average between 5 and 10 minutes. The second is that it’s so easy to grab the bag off the shelf and just start playing. There isn’t any set-up time at all.
The third reason is that it can be played anywhere. It doesn’t take much space and any flat surface will do. The forth reason is pretty straight-forward, it’s fun!
We have absolutely no reservations in recommending this board game (tile game) for every family in the world!
| The Board Game Family Game Ratings | |
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Caleb |
 |
Brooke |
 |
Jaden |
 |
Trevor |
 |
Mom |
 |
Dad |
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Average |
| Pick up a copy! |
Interested in what others think of Hive?
Check out these other opinions:
* Games With Two review of Hive
* Board Game Reviews by Josh Hive review
