I own the original Ethnos which faced criticism for its generic and somewhat bland artwork. However, I found the gameplay engaging due to its straightforward mechanics and unique area control system. In fact it was precisely the gameplay that won me over when I bought it. The second edition appears to have significantly improved upon these issues, particularly the updated artwork and pagoda-like territory markers. A tempting purchase indeed.
I’ve played the first edition, and it’s interesting what species here are equivalent to the original: rabbits/dwarves, bears/giants, dogs/skeletons, monkeys/orcs, koi/merfolk, deer/wingfolk (figured that would be ravens), not sure what foxes are, think the rest are new.
I talked myself into, and then out of, picking up the og Ethnos several times. Then once or twice for Archeos Society. I think at this point I should take the plunge -- even if it doesn't end up working for my gaming groups, at least I won't be second-guessing myself any more XD
Ethnos was the game that got me into board gaming. Absolutely love seeing it get a second edition. I think these changes will make it more appealing too.
This one didn't get me into the hobby, but it really caught my attention when I played it, and I'm very glad it's back in print for more people to find, and hey, this could be someone's first game too!
Sometimes i watch your videos to learn about different games that are out there not just the ones i already purchased and want to learn how to play. Wonderful instruction Rodney and very interesting looking game. What genre of game would you classify this as?
That's wonderful to hear, and certainly one of my hopes. If I can help you learn about a title that might spark your interest, that's great! I would classify this as an area control game, and a set collection game.
@@WatchItPlayed No worries. :) I found it on Amazon with an estimated delivery time of around a month. Looks like I'll need to be a little bit patient. :D
Promo Question: When passing a space with a Platypus symbol on the Platypus board, the ability triggers: “Move one marker from one region to any region” and so on. Does this only allow you to move your own marker, or are you able to move other people’s markers (eg moving another marker out of your area to get the largest amount of markers)
I do my best to answer all rules questions on the games I cover, but I avoid individual card effects (particularly with promos), as that's a level of detail beyond what I can manage across all the videos I do. I'd suggest checking the rules forum for the game on BoardGameGeek or the publishers website. I hope you can find your answer there - have fun playing!
Thank you so much for all the videos you make. Learning new games has never been so easy. I actually want to purchase this game now but couldn't find anywhere what is the card size for this edition for sleeves purposes? Is it similar to the first in size?
@WatchItPlayed Thanks for the reply! The first edition isn't standard magic size, it's 57x89. However, I'm not sure if this 2nd edition is the same size as the first or not and cannot find any mention of that online.
@ I’ve just had a chance to go look, no these aren’t standard sized either. You’re probably curious what size they are - sorry I can’t help with that, don’t have a ruler handy and I’m shooting a tutorial right now.
@WatchItPlayed No worries! Thank you so much for taking the time to check, you're too kind! If anyone else is wondering, I've confirmed they're the same size as the original: American standard size (57x89).
For me, I kept seeing Ethnos as a top 100 game from a few different reviewers but I could never get into it due to the look of the game and the components, it just wasn't pretty. Saw your review pop up for this and not only is it considerably prettier, but after watching your rules breakdown, it makes it an absolute pick up for me next month! I've been a fan of your reviews for the longest time but due to this one, it puts a new game (least a reprint I never knew about) on my radar to add to the ole collection. Thank you so much Rodney!!
@@frankdetank9126 I've been on there actively posting for quite awhile now - so now I'm curious what account you were searching for. I even tried googling Watch It Played and Blue Sky and it came up.
@@WatchItPlayed you spoke and it was true--I found you! I'm sure it was my incompetence with searching. As a side note, your channel information for Watch It Played as a list of socials the channel that doesn't include Blue Sky. I only bring it because I landed there after failing to search adequately.
Oh wow, the second edition is a complete visual overall of the game's overall aesthetic, going for a much more Eastern vibe than the previous game's traditional fantasy. The art is really top notch and gorgeous, but I still kind of prefer that old fashioned traditional fantasy vibe with my dwarves and elves, so I might try to find the first version...or just succumb to the goblins and get both to vary based on my mood. I must say, I do like the look of that bear tribe, tho!
Been wanting this for so long, I'm so stoked!!!
It's here! Thanks for checking out the video :)
I own the original Ethnos which faced criticism for its generic and somewhat bland artwork. However, I found the gameplay engaging due to its straightforward mechanics and unique area control system. In fact it was precisely the gameplay that won me over when I bought it. The second edition appears to have significantly improved upon these issues, particularly the updated artwork and pagoda-like territory markers. A tempting purchase indeed.
I’ve played the first edition, and it’s interesting what species here are equivalent to the original: rabbits/dwarves, bears/giants, dogs/skeletons, monkeys/orcs, koi/merfolk, deer/wingfolk (figured that would be ravens), not sure what foxes are, think the rest are new.
Thorough and clear as usual.
Great video as usual sir! Happy holidays to you and yours!
Thank you kindly Pete!
Hooray! I've been trying to find a copy of the original. I'm thrilled there's a second edition on the way!
Coming soon!
I talked myself into, and then out of, picking up the og Ethnos several times. Then once or twice for Archeos Society. I think at this point I should take the plunge -- even if it doesn't end up working for my gaming groups, at least I won't be second-guessing myself any more XD
I'm right there beside you my friend. Definitely getting this version! Anthropomorphic kung-fu animals!
Well, I hope you have a fantastic time playing if you get a chance to. I just taught it to some friends on the weekend and we had a great time!
Ethnos was the game that got me into board gaming. Absolutely love seeing it get a second edition. I think these changes will make it more appealing too.
This one didn't get me into the hobby, but it really caught my attention when I played it, and I'm very glad it's back in print for more people to find, and hey, this could be someone's first game too!
Sometimes i watch your videos to learn about different games that are out there not just the ones i already purchased and want to learn how to play. Wonderful instruction Rodney and very interesting looking game. What genre of game would you classify this as?
That's wonderful to hear, and certainly one of my hopes. If I can help you learn about a title that might spark your interest, that's great! I would classify this as an area control game, and a set collection game.
Great video as usual, Rodney. I prefer and will be keeping my original version!
Thanks for checking it out!
I've never played it before, but it is very pretty and you break it down so well.
Very kind of you to say - thanks, appreciate you being here!
Great video! I'll have to finally try this one out.
It's time Henri!
Where can you buy this game? I can find either some shady stores or some ridiculous shipping dates
Sorry, I don't know how to help you with that. It may be that it's not fully in release everywhere yet.
@@WatchItPlayed No worries. :) I found it on Amazon with an estimated delivery time of around a month. Looks like I'll need to be a little bit patient. :D
Promo Question: When passing a space with a Platypus symbol on the Platypus board, the ability triggers:
“Move one marker from one region to any region” and so on.
Does this only allow you to move your own marker, or are you able to move other people’s markers (eg moving another marker out of your area to get the largest amount of markers)
I do my best to answer all rules questions on the games I cover, but I avoid individual card effects (particularly with promos), as that's a level of detail beyond what I can manage across all the videos I do. I'd suggest checking the rules forum for the game on BoardGameGeek or the publishers website. I hope you can find your answer there - have fun playing!
Thank you so much for all the videos you make. Learning new games has never been so easy. I actually want to purchase this game now but couldn't find anywhere what is the card size for this edition for sleeves purposes? Is it similar to the first in size?
I don't recall the first edition size, but I believe they are standard Magic the Gathering sized (but do double-check).
@WatchItPlayed Thanks for the reply! The first edition isn't standard magic size, it's 57x89. However, I'm not sure if this 2nd edition is the same size as the first or not and cannot find any mention of that online.
@ I’ve just had a chance to go look, no these aren’t standard sized either. You’re probably curious what size they are - sorry I can’t help with that, don’t have a ruler handy and I’m shooting a tutorial right now.
@WatchItPlayed No worries! Thank you so much for taking the time to check, you're too kind! If anyone else is wondering, I've confirmed they're the same size as the original: American standard size (57x89).
For me, I kept seeing Ethnos as a top 100 game from a few different reviewers but I could never get into it due to the look of the game and the components, it just wasn't pretty. Saw your review pop up for this and not only is it considerably prettier, but after watching your rules breakdown, it makes it an absolute pick up for me next month!
I've been a fan of your reviews for the longest time but due to this one, it puts a new game (least a reprint I never knew about) on my radar to add to the ole collection. Thank you so much Rodney!!
Very nice to know you found the video helpful - thanks for checking it out and have a great time playing when you do!
Hi Rodney!! Could you please do a tutorial for Defenders Of The Wild? It's on my shelf and I really wanna play it but I feel intimidated by it
Thanks for the interest! I talk a bit about that here: ua-cam.com/video/EdtDuvIUa6A/v-deo.html&t=342
Solo!
Ethnos (Έθνος) in Greek means country.
I didn't know that! Thanks :)
I know people loved the original, but what a solid reprint!
Glad you enjoyed what you saw!
I just went to PAX man, c'mon! Why Rodney?? WHY? Guess I'm pre-ordering this game.
So many great games, so little time!
This looks like El Grande on steroids. I like it already!
Thanks for checking it out!
Colorblind-friendly!!
@rodney - Tell Tom (SUSD) you do have a copy of Pax Pamir 2nd Ed.
@@jamessimpson7690 Oh, I already did: bsky.app/profile/watchitplayed.tv/post/3ld5geyluyk2q
🥓🥓🥓
I was due for a top-up - thanks!
@WatchItPlayed have you considered creating a Watch It Played profile on Blue Sky? I keep checking to see if you are on there but to no avail.
@@frankdetank9126 I've been on there actively posting for quite awhile now - so now I'm curious what account you were searching for. I even tried googling Watch It Played and Blue Sky and it came up.
@@WatchItPlayed you spoke and it was true--I found you! I'm sure it was my incompetence with searching. As a side note, your channel information for Watch It Played as a list of socials the channel that doesn't include Blue Sky. I only bring it because I landed there after failing to search adequately.
@@frankdetank9126 Updated - thanks!
Oh wow, the second edition is a complete visual overall of the game's overall aesthetic, going for a much more Eastern vibe than the previous game's traditional fantasy. The art is really top notch and gorgeous, but I still kind of prefer that old fashioned traditional fantasy vibe with my dwarves and elves, so I might try to find the first version...or just succumb to the goblins and get both to vary based on my mood. I must say, I do like the look of that bear tribe, tho!
Different tastes for different folks :)