Ayar: Children of the Sun^*

Ayar: Children of the Sun is a mid-weight euro for 1 to 4 players aged 14 and up that retells the Inca origin myth. It suits players who love planning puzzles.

What's it about?

Viracocha the creator brings forth Inti, the sun god, and Mama Quilla, the moon goddess. Their eight children, the Ayar, guide the first clans across the Andes toward Cusco. You lead one clan and master farming, pottery, weaving and reed bundling along the way. The designers are Mandela Fernandez-Grandon and Fabio Lopiano, with art by Ian O'Toole. Osprey Games publishes it in English.

How a round works

The game runs four rounds, each split into a day and a night. During the day, players take turns:

1. Pick which Ayar pair to move.
2. Place a step marker on your personal grid. Its row or column sets how far the Ayar travels.
3. Build a tambo, a small waystation, behind the Ayar.
4. Take an activity whose icon lies along the path you just covered.

At night you score. The Ayar pair that has fallen furthest behind retires to the temple track. Only the last pair reaches Cusco.

How you win

• Sun points please Inti and come from sharp tactical play.
• Moon points please Mama Quilla and reward long-term plans, especially around which Ayar retire.
• Only your lower total counts at the end. Neglect one god and you lose.

Who is it for?

Expect 60 to 90 minutes of tight planning. A solo mode is included. Board Game Quest felt it scales less well at two players than with a full table.

Conclusion

Ayar stands out with a fresh setting and a dual scoring system that makes every choice hurt a little. Planners and myth fans will enjoy it a lot. If you want a breezy family game or heavy direct conflict, look elsewhere.