Reviews written by Mr Skeletor

The theme is virtually non existent, but since this game feels more like an abstract then anything else that isn't a problem. One of the best tile laying games there is in my opinion, with just enough luck involved to not make it a scripted bore-fest or too prone to AP. The game is chock full of conflict and screwing other opponents around - taking another characters kingdom which they have been carefully growing is always a treat. There is also a playing the odds element when attacking other players as you try and guess what tiles they have in their hand, giving the game a slight gambling feel.

Most Ameritrashers should like this one.

While this is a Eurogame the buying and selling aspects of it remind me more of classic games like monopoly as opposed to the more bland auctioning found in most modern Eurogames. Pretty much the best economic game I have played, buying land (in the form of connections), utilities and resources has never been so much fun. The game can be math heavy but for some odd reason I can't quite put my finger on it all works.

Purchased the Italy/German map which is fun to play on, but haven't felt the need to get any of the others. It's a nice expansion which changes the game slightly; basically a new map for those sick of playing on the old ones.

Yes, this game was very innovative when it came out. It's clever and original and smart and all of that stuff. But after playing this half a dozen times the game seems to somewhat stagnate and play itself out the same each time - I suspect you don't really have as many valid choices to choose from as their first appears.

It's hardly an exciting game, and fails both as a rip roaring good time and as a true brain burning contest of wills. Ultimately this is a game that really impresses the first time you play it, but once the sheen wears off it becomes rather average.