I played a couple games of, Scythe (solo) a couple days ago. Before we moved, I was at a point where I was able to beat the Autometta (Easy level), 50% of the time. However, after 6-weeks of not playing while we moved and got settled in, I haven't won since.... :(
But a couple days ago, in game 1 I put myself back in the win column!!! Woo Hoo! :)
I absolutely love, Scythe (solo or multiplayer). So much fun.
Well done on being back in top form, Derek! I hope you have dedicated gaming space in your new place too. 🙂
I have never played Scythe, even though people suggested I should try it. What aspects of the game make it fun and engaging to play solo for you?
Sorry JW, I just saw your question now.
I bought Scythe at the start of 2020. I was attracted to it for some time before that; the artwork, the theme, the premise of the game. I read reviews and watched videos and it just hoked me. When I unboxed it I just said "Wow!".
For me what makes the game fun is it's simple to learn how to play (even though it appears daunting), but the strategy can go deep. I also love how each faction has their own unique ability, each factions mechs have a couple unique abilities and the player mats are varied so replayability is huge (that's very important to me).
Also, not that I'm oppose to combat in games, but Scythe (for me) brings a new element to it. In Scythe, it's more about gaining territories for your faction and engine building/economy building vs fighting. If you do fight, you have to really think about it beause you have to spend power. So what I enjoy is that when you play, you can't just have someone go full out aggressive to try to wipe you off
the board. Attacks (if any) have to be planned and well thought out or you could screw yourself over. So cool.
I should say though, that the base game comes with 5 factions. Add the "Invaders from Afar" expansion and you gain 2 additional expansions and therefore can play up to 7 players. Wth Scythe, the more players that play, the more battles will occur because territories become less abundant. Once again, making you think differently in the strategy. :)
As for solo, Scythe was my first solo game I experienced. It was the game that actually introduced me to that side of gaming. The Automa card deck come with the base game, and I have to say, it's so great. I also love that you have difficulty level options (I'm still plyaing on the easy level after over 50 games now... until I start winning at least 60-70% of the time LOL). Granted playing the Automa is different in that the Automa move quickly and primarily gain territory and atack (when they are able) and corner you/make your decisions tougher. It's so fun.
I'm sorry to go on so much. I absolutely love Scythe and could talk about it much more. LOL Hopefully I answered your question. :)
One more thing to add .... Scythe is not a game you figure out in one play. It takes many plays to figure out your strategy. Solo allows that practice and time to figure out the game. :)
Yes, you've answered my question. And I love your enthousiasm. :-) The focus on gaining territories and getting an engine running actually sounds good to me, and the unique faction powers would certainly attract me. Right then. I'll go looking for a solo playthrough on YouTube.
I definitely plan to have a dedicated gaming space some day, Athena. It's on my wishlist. We downsized and are just renting for now, so it'll be down the road (unless my oldest moves out sooner than expected LOL)