We recently purchased this board game and it has become an instant hit with everyone, from an 8 year old to a 50 year old!
If you are worried about reading and learning pages of rules, don't! The rules are spread over 4 pages with plenty of colourful diagrams, which makes it clear and easy to understand. I have often put a board game away simply because the rules were poorly written or just far too long and complicated to learn. This is not the case here.
The beauty of this game is that behind the simple rules lies a game of cunning strategy, with a dose of luck. There are multiple ways to win and you need to be wary of what others are trying to do.
One thing that makes this game stand out from most others is ‘player involvement’. Even if it is not your turn, you collect resources based on opponents dice throws and can trade with the player who is throwing the dice. You are constantly involved which is a big plus if, like me, you get bored, waiting for your turn, in most other board games.
Another big point of difference is the often hilarious verbal exchanges on nearly every turn as players try to secure the best trade they can based on their hand of resource cards.
The game lasts around 90 minutes which is perfect as it allows the option to play ‘one more game’.
Also, the hexagonal tile design means that every game will be slightly different as the tiles can be arranged randomly.
At $70+ this game is well worth the money. It will bring friends and family together in a way only board games can. It will cost less than a group outing to the movies and be on your shelf forever, ready to be played again and again.
