Play This, Not That: Cyclades vs. Kemet vs. Inis

In Play This, Not That; we pick two games with some degree of similarity or overlap, and tell you which one I think you should play. In this episode, we cover Cyclades, Kemet and Inis, the spiritual trilogy from Matagot Games. Which one wins out? Which is the best game? Watch the video to find out!

[joerobert]

Your reviews are more decisive than others. Sounds like you play games more times than other reviewers do. It makes a huge difference. Great job

[psybadge]

My interest in learning more about all three games piqued recently so I'm glad I found this video (haven't played any of them yet). I think that Inis would be the most attractive option for virtually all the reasons you gave. Thanks for all the insight!

[tabletopcloset]

I can wholeheartedly recommend all three of these games. Cyclades is a great game that's all about the tight bids and timing but is the weakest of the bunch due to the potential for king-making and having least engaging combat system. Kemet is one of the best area control games period. The power tiles are all insanely strong and the combat system is excellent. The fast and furious gameplay has been a huge hit with my group. Inis is perhaps the most polarising but I love drafting mechanics and appreciate the art style. Plays in this are a bit more subtle and it almost feels like jousting to achieve one of the victory conditions before anyone else. I love it but other members of my group aren't quite as keen.

Thanks for the entertaining and insightful round up.

[JohnBailey]

Really appreciated the thoughts and solid review. I cannot say I've ever had an anti-climatic ending to Cyclades or Kemet. Both games I have played so many times. Granted Kemet I've only played with "more serious gamers" Cyclades ends up having everyone saying "whoa that was fun!"

[JarnoWesselink]

I just ordered Inis and this video made me even more excited! Cyclades is my all time favourite game :)

[andzzcage]

good clip man. I was wondering which of these games to buy. And you made a good review !

[rodolfocucchiella]

Cyclades is one of my favourites games. Easy the best, the coolest looking and more fun of the 3.
I have everything ever published by Matagot for it.
And already backed the new Legendary Edition that closed yesterday ❤

[RenbroNL]

Recently got Inis, big part of that is your recommendation Alex. I love it, thanks!

Are you going to cover Kemet: Blood And Sand? I'm hoping it will boost the game up a notch.

[williamwebb]

Thanks for this video. I was one of those requesting it. I bought Inis & Kemet used from a moving sale, but haven't played yet. Even more excited to get them to the table now!

[charlietwoteas]

It was my birthday at the weekend and I was given Zatu vouchers. My friend has Inis and I absolutely adore it, the fluidity of the board state and exploration in particular. I was going to get Western Legends, Concordia and either Cyclades or Kemet with my vouchers but I think I might just get Inis now so I can play it more often.

[TheUtopisk]

This is for sure my Favorite video from you =) I DEMAND you do one later of the super trio saga Blood Rage, Rising sun and ANK! when that hits the table

[nishant_kumar]

My finance minister (wife) told me I only had budget for one. Now I know which one to get. Thanks Alex!
Added it to my Boardgameco wishlist :)

[Willakhstan]

Really useful video for players expanding their collection because these games are well regarded but comparable. The vibe I've got from the community is that Kemet is generally more popular than Cyclades, but Inis does tend to take the title.

[aydencw]

I recently got into the board gaming scene with Inis and the group and I fell in love it. However, I am looking into getting the expansion eventually. What are your thoughts on seasons of Inis?

[winverlopez]

Hi, which one is the most viable for 2 players? Will be playing with 2 players mostly, sometimes 3 but rarely with 4

[jackburtonstwin]

I have both Inis and Cyclades. They are stella games and, from the feedback of others, I gather that Kemet is a great title, too. This must be one of the best judged "series" of titles of any publisher out there. All of them are good games, no dudes in the pack, and all sufficiently different to justify owning all three of them without feeling that they are rehashes of the same basic ideas.

[paulkarlik]

I love all your videos, and Because of you, I purchased Inis and Blood Rage, The best 2 games I've ever played!!! I was wondering if you have any suggestions for what other games I should get, I will be purchasing KEMET when the new version comes out and Cyclades (when it get restocked) What other games like BR and Inis should I get that play well with 2 players?

[josephvulich]

You look like the guy from the channel, Slapped Ham lol! Great video BTW! ✌😎

[bane]

Just came home with inis . Classic me looking at your reviews after buying :p happy with my choice though

[justified]

Have played Cyclades 2x (retooled the monster powers with "house rules" quite a bit to try to create balance for the 2nd play - was better), just bought Kemet this week, and trading for Inis soon. Can't wait to play any of them but especially the 2 new (to me) ones