Waldschattenspiel, also known as Shadows in the Woods, is a board game played in the darkness. The game was created and originally self-published by Walter Kraul in 1986. At the start of the game, forests appear like 3D wooden trees that can move anywhere unless you block their path.
One player takes an LED lantern to find mysterious creatures that avoid light. The lantern casts real shadows on the game board and illuminates the trees. The rest of the players are working together through their strategic moves to avoid light. Waldschattenspiel provides a distinctive twist to game night by providing fun and adventure. It is designed for kids and families and is suitable for ages 5 and up.
You must play it in a very dark room. The concept only works with it being super dark. Also, it would help if you had honest players since the lantern holder can hear what’s happening—no need to turn their back or close their eyes during the Shadowling turn.
Key Features
The key features of the Waldschattenspiel board game are:
- Innovative Gameplay: The Adventurous dim woodland combines strategy and suspense. This is to ensure each playthrough is unique and electrifying.
- Attractive Design: Beautiful art and clever design can take you to a world of old secrets and make-believe creatures.
- Dynamic Shadows: Experience the game in a whole new light –. Dynamic shadows enhance the gameplay, creating a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere.
- Multiplayer Magic: Invite friends and family to join the quest. Enchanted Shadowscape Adventure is the perfect blend of competition and companionship.
Composition
The composition of the Waldschattenspiel board game includes:
- Game Board
- Mini Lantern (including Batteries )
- A Glow-In-The-Dark Die
- 10 Hiding Places
- 6 Shadowing
- 6 Shadowling Masks
Specifications
The specifications of the Waldschattenspiel board game are as follows:
- Brand: ThinkFun
- Theme: Fantasy
- Genre: Family
- Number of Players: 2-7
- Dimensions: 12.56 x 2 x 9.09 inches
- Weight: 2.45 pounds
- Country of Origin: China
- ASIN: B07DGSMNTC
- Model number: 1052-T
Objectives
The objectives of the Wdschattenspiel board game:
- For Pawns: All pawns must collect behind one tree without getting caught in the lantern’s light, either by the Seeker or by the honor method while moving amongst the trees.
- For Seeker: Find and collect the pawns’ masks while moving around the board.
Setup
Setting up the Waldschattenspiel board game is quite simple:
- Place the board with stone paths and nine hollows for trees in the center.
- Insert the slotted heavy cardboard trees into the hollows per the setup.
- Choose one player as the Seeker; this player will close their eyes.
- Other players are the pawns and hide their pawns behind the trees in a dark room.
- The only light in the room comes from a watch-battery-powered plastic lantern, and a glow-in-the-dark die.
Gameplay
Playing the Waldschattenspiel board game is straightforward to learn:
- Seeker closes their eyes.
- Pawns hide their pawns behind the trees in total darkness.
- The Seeker turns on the lantern, providing a limited field of vision.
- Pawns silently move their pawns amongst the trees, trying to group behind one tree without being caught in the lantern’s light.
- If a pawn is caught in the lantern’s light by the Seeker or the honor system, the player removes the mask and places it in front of the Seeker.
- The Seeker aims to find and collect all pawn masks by moving around the board.
- Discovered pawns are immediately frozen in place.
- A pawn can win back its mask if another pawn sneaks back undiscovered and stays with the frozen pawn for one full turn.
- Pawns cannot fly over trees; they must move along the stone paths.
- Seeker hears clues but must rely on lantern light to find pawns.
- The game continues until either:
- All pawns successfully gather behind one tree without being caught, resulting in a collective win.
- Or the Seeker finds and collects all pawn masks, resulting in a Seeker win.
Optional Rule (as mentioned by players): On the first turn, each pawn must hide behind a different tree to prevent an immediate grouping that could lead to a quick win.
Why Choose Waldschattenspiel Board Game?
Waldschattenspiel board game is thrilling, spooky, and fun for kids and adults. Some reasons to choose Waldschattenspiel are:
- Winner of the “Delicious’ Best of Toy Fair Award 2018”
- Trusted Globally: Over 50 million “Shadows in the Woods” games sold.
- Boosts Brain Power: A game that enhances logical thinking.
- Perfect Gift: A delightful and adventurous birthday present for kids.
- Clear Instructions: Quick and easy setup for instant play.
Waldschattenspiel board game brings friends and family together. The game has aesthetic and delightful elements, making it a must-have board game. It promises hours of entertainment through its impressive storyline and quality components. It’s a good choice for kids seeking a unique gaming experience.
Hi, I am the editor and founder of STEMGames, an expert in STEM education with a background in developing online courses, climate science education, and professional development workshops. He is passionate about using simulations and games for kids.
