Splendor: Cities of Splendor
Official Description:
Cities of Splendor is a quartet of expansions for use with the Splendor base game. Each module is designed to be added to the basic game individually and played separately. The first expansion, The Cities, replaces the standard noble tiles with city tiles that act as new victory objectives. To win, players must fulfill the specific prestige point and development card requirements listed on one of these city tiles.
The Trading Posts module offers special bonuses, such as extra gems or increased prestige, which players earn by acquiring specific combinations of development cards. The Orient expansion introduces three new decks of cards, two of which are placed face-up for each development level. These cards feature unique special powers, including double bonus cards and joker cards that adopt the color of a development the player already owns.
The Strongholds expansion grants each player three towers to interact with face-up cards on the table. Placing a stronghold allows a player to reserve a card exclusively for themselves, move their towers, or remove an opponent's stronghold. Once a player places all three strongholds on a single card, they may purchase it as an additional action, potentially allowing for two acquisitions in one turn.
Splendor: Cities of Splendor is a quartet of expansion modules that introduce distinct mechanical twists, each designed to be integrated individually, ensuring that the core simplicity of Splendor remains intact. Despite the intriguing concepts, these modules do not overshadow the original's elegance, reflecting a consistent mechanical performance that has secured its place in the collection over the years. Its legacy status is a nod to its reliable presence on the shelf, offering a solid table-time value for seasoned players who appreciate its strategic depth.
From a logistical standpoint, Cities of Splendor is a well-considered addition to any game night. The expansion's box is designed to fit seamlessly into the core game's carton, simplifying storage and setup. With a session time of around 30 minutes, it serves as an excellent choice for a mid-evening feature, providing enough depth to engage players without overstaying its welcome. The modular nature allows hosts to tailor the experience to their group's preferences, making it a versatile option for varied gaming sessions.
Teaching Cities of Splendor requires a procedural approach, as each module introduces unique rules that must be explained independently. The competitive nature of the game fosters a dynamic atmosphere, with players engaging in indirect blocking and strategic planning. This interaction level keeps the energy high, as players navigate the mental friction of optimizing their strategies. While the teach demands a veteran's guidance initially, the game's structure allows facilitators to step back once players grasp the mechanics, enabling them to focus on the skill dividends of strategic foresight and resource management.
Category
Tactical & Strategy
My score
7
Our Total Plays
12
Last PLayed
27 Jan 18
🏛️ Legacy
Player Count
2-4
Playtime
30 mins
Proficiency Perks
Strategic Planning
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