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License to Krill - Game Review


Innovative Idea Badge

Title: License to Krill


Designed By: Matthew Kambic


Published By: MaKa Games, LLC


Released: Launched on Kickstarter June 11, 2024

Player Count: 2-5

Time to Play: 15-45 Minutes


Ages: 9+

 
Jacqueline with Box

Overview:

License to Krill is a hot potato-style, drafting and set collection game where players work to collect cards that will score the most points at the end of the game. Players must avoid having their best cards gobbled up by the hungry whale plushie, who swims around trying to eat (steal) krill cards from players. Quick to learn and play, this game comes with an adorable whale plushie that will make a splash in any game collection.


What's purr-ty cool:

The Whale of a Box: 

License to Krill boasts the hands-down best game "box" I have ever owned—and that's coming from someone with over 600 games. The box is a squishy whale stuffed animal, but the best part is that it’s also a functional part of the game. Throughout the game, the whale "eats" players' cards. Made of high-quality stuffed animal material, it feels similar to a Squishmallow and does a great job holding and protecting the cards. I have traveled with it multiple times, and my cards are still in great shape! If you or a loved one are a fan of cute things and stuffed animals, you are going to love this game.


Pun-tastic and Adorable Art: 

License to Krill game setup

The box isn't the only cute part about License to Krill. The game is chock full of fabulous puns and adorable art. Some of my favorites include "Get Out of Whale Free," "Shrimply the Best," and "Mono-Krill." I appreciate how all the puns play into the action of the card, bringing the theme to life in a delightfully humorous way.


Family Fun and Lighthearted Play:

License to Krill is perfect for families or a lighthearted game night. The hot potato element is reminiscent of childhood games, making it easy to pick up and play. The game plays quickly, allowing for multiple rematches. I enjoyed the strategic decisions involved in determining which card and subsequent action to take. Whether protecting valuable cards or acquiring new ones to complete sets, the game offers a good balance of lightweight decision-making that keeps everyone engaged. Turns are quick so there is already minimal downtime, but players will also need to pay attention during opponent's turns as their actions may sometimes require action on the part of others, like when the whale steals and eats a card!


Mono-krill and Shrimply the Best Cards

As a big fan of all things whale-themed, I knew I would need to play License to Krill as soon as I saw it and I am glad it lived up to my hopes for it!


License to Krill will be on Kickstarter on June 11, 2024.


The cat's meow:

"This game is krill-iantly fun for the whole family!!" - Solo the Spokescat

 

Disclosure: Pudgy Cat Games was provided a copy of this game in exchange for a review, however, this review reflects the honest thoughts of the author.

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