Gobi

About this board game

Gobi is a tile-laying and route-building board game for 2–4 players, released in 2018. A huge sandstorm has scattered the nomadic tribes of the Gobi Desert, and players take on the role of caravan drivers working to reunite them.

On each turn, place a tile and then place camels on adjacent tiles. Every tile contains a tribe name, creating opportunities to plan routes across the growing desert landscape. When a camel route connects two tiles bearing the same tribe name, that tribe is reunited.

Reunited tribes reward the player with a choice of gifts. Each gift provides victory points along with a power that can be used later in the game, making every completed route useful both immediately and in future turns. Careful placement can help you set up larger and more rewarding moves.

• Place tiles to expand the desert map.
• Add camels to adjacent tiles and build connecting routes.
• Link tiles showing the same tribe name to claim gifts.
• Create routes of five or more camels to access coffee, a special gift.

The standout challenge in Gobi is balancing route construction with the timing of your rewards. Shorter connections can provide gifts, while a route of five or more camels unlocks access to coffee, adding a special target to your plans. The game encourages players to look ahead as they shape the available paths.

Gobi ends when all the tiles have been played. With its clear turn structure, evolving network of camel routes, and powers earned through successful connections, it offers a focused desert adventure about rebuilding links between scattered tribes.