Thames & Kosmos | Targi | Two Player Game | Strategy Board Game | Golden Geek Award Nominee | Kennerspiel Des Jahres Finalist

Thames & Kosmos Targi is a two-player strategy board game that drops you into the heart of Tuareg trading in the Sahara. The desert unfolds on a 5x5 grid where you and your opponent place your Targi figures on the border to activate the actions printed on adjacent cards. The goods cards you collect become stepping stones to coveted tribe cards, which bring ongoing advantages and end-game points. Each round reshuffles the offerings, creating a fresh puzzle and emphasizing timing, geography, and resource management. Thematic flavor, crisp decision-making, and a tense two-player duel come together for a memorable game night experience. The game is well-regarded in strategy circles and frequently appears in top lists, reflecting its lasting appeal for thoughtful play and replay value.

Strategic depth that grows with every play

In Targi you’ll weigh where to place your figures, which border cards to activate, and when to reach into the crossroads for the best goods. The desert grid links actions across cards, shaping a web of choices that rewards forethought, spatial awareness, and careful sequencing. The goods you collect act as currency to recruit tribe cards that unlock ongoing benefits and valuable end-game points. Because offerings rotate each round, no two games feel the same, inviting you to refine tactics and discover new rhythms with every session.

• Trade goods such as dates, salt, and pepper to fuel your evolving strategy.
• Use goods to recruit tribe cards that provide continuous bonuses and scoring opportunities.
• Balance gold coins to leverage powerful combinations while limiting opponent options.

Two-player tension with meaningful choices

The duel shines when both players anticipate moves and count on timing. If you skip a merchant action, your opponent may seize the opportunity, making timely trades crucial. With each round, a new set of offerings arrives, keeping the challenge fresh and your decisions consequential.

• Turn structure blends worker placement with card-driven actions across the desert grid.
• Gold coins provide flexibility for purchases and tempo control.
• Smart planning and risk assessment can swing the balance as the board evolves.

Solo play and broad appeal

A dedicated solo variant supports independent practice, while the core two-player experience makes it a great pick for couples and game-night groups seeking concise, strategic competition. The design, component quality, and focused playtime make repeated sessions engaging without fatigue.

Quality design and accolades

Thames & Kosmos Targi has earned recognition within the strategy gaming community as a Golden Geek Award nominee and a Kennerspiel des Jahres finalist. Its compact footprint, durable production, and clear rules help players dive into the theme and the strategy without delay.