A first surprise awaits the Games rookie right after the opening of the square game box. Nanu, no game board? The Settlers of Catan is played on a variable game plan. This is composed of hexagonal cardboard discs and number chip before the game begins, with the result that each game plays differently. The result is an island with a colorful mix of cornfields, pastures, forests, mountains, hills and desert.
The game begins with a start-up phase, in which each player places his first settlements on the island. These settlements are expected to contribute the raw materials that are needed for the development of their civilization. So one can, for example to bring grain, if one has an adjoining settlement a cornfield. Discard what the landscape Fields income is determined at the beginning of each turn on a roll. Who's turn can build new buildings with the raw materials which he owns. It can be built new settlements, which in turn retract income, then roads can be built, connecting the settlements, or settlements to be upgraded to cities. In addition to opening up new sources of revenue, the buildings with victory points are rewarded. Can a player with the means available raw materials does not build the desired structure, so he can try to get the required components by exchange Andel by his fellow players. The game ends when one player has over a colony, which is worth 10 victory points.
The exact game mechanics are very good Instructions (the game instructions even received an award) detailed and understandable explained. You can enter in principle immediately, as a special game help guides you through the first batch and playfully explains the rules. But if you have doubts occur, so you will surely find in the enclosed small booklets. This has an alphabetical index and good explanations and example images. A beginner friendly game I can not think.
Good accessibility makes the game a good choice for beginners and young players. The game time is optimal with an hour just for little players. The package is as indication of age 10 years or more, but especially in a family round even younger players can play. Playful learn the advantages of expansion and trade. But this child friendliness should not obscure the fact that even adults will get their costs. The game provides enough depth that each age group has fun playing.
This game is one of the first of a new generation of games, it won the award "Game of the Year 1995" and is rightly a bestseller. Uneingeschränt recommended for families and beginners!
