Designer Diary: Mythic Baths

by Karl Lange

Origin Story

In March 2020, an exciting opportunity arose for Karl Lange when he met a company representing the Studio Ghibli license for North America at GAMA Expo. Inspired by his love for Ghibli classics such as Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Spirited Away, he proposed the idea of creating board games based on these beloved films. Upon returning to Australia and with ample time during COVID lockdowns, Karl began conceptualizing various game ideas.

One particular concept caught his attention: a game inspired by the bathhouse in Spirited Away, where players assume the roles of employees responsible for collecting ingredient tickets to create baths for spirits, tidying up the baths after use, and utilizing managers with special abilities to assist players. After four months of design and extensive playtesting, Karl pitched the game to the publisher he met at GAMA, but due to licensing issues, it was not to be. Undeterred, he decided to continue developing the game and explore self-publishing.

Key Features

  • Unique Gameplay Mechanics: Players collect bath tickets representing various ingredients to satisfy the whims of different spirits. This introduces an engaging tension between efficiency and accuracy in gameplay.
  • Spirit Dynamics: Spirits start dirty and need to be cleaned after use, adding a strategic layer as players manage both ingredient collection and bath cleanliness.
  • Quick Turns: The game emphasizes fast-paced play with players taking one action per turn, enhancing player engagement and strategy.
  • Manager Roles: Managers introduce an additional layer of strategy, with their involvement adjusting game dynamics based on how frequently they appear.
  • Creature Favor Mechanic: Players can gain favor from creatures, adding an engine-building element that enriches the gameplay experience.
  • Art Direction: The game features whimsical, colorful artwork inspired by mythical creatures from various cultures, created by talented artist Emily Hancock.
  • Cooperative Elements: Players can work together to manage troublesome guests, creating opportunities for collaboration and competition.

Conclusion

Through a journey filled with creative evolution and player feedback, Karl Lange has crafted a vibrant and engaging game that reflects the enchanting world of Spirited Away while standing on its own as Mythic Baths. The game captures the charm of mythical creatures and the strategic depth of bathhouse management, inviting players to experience the joy of cleaning and serving in a whimsical setting.

Now available worldwide, Mythic Baths has garnered praise for its unique theme and engaging mechanics, ensuring that players will have the most fun they’ve ever had cleaning a bath!

Via BoardGameGeek Blog