Granada (2009) – Board Game Guys

Granada

Granada: Last Stand of the Moors – 1482-1492 is a board game for two players that simulates the historical episode of the fall of Granada, the last Muslim kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula, to the Catholic Monarchs of Spain. The game was developed by Dirk Henn and published by Queen Games in 2009. The game is heavily inspired by Henn’s earlier game, the Spiel des Jahres-winning Alhambra.

Why is Granada Popular?

Granada is a popular game among board game enthusiasts due to its historical theme and strategic gameplay. The game has received positive reviews for its mechanics, components, and historical accuracy.

Game Components of Granada

Game board: Serves as the building market and scoring track.

Building tiles: Double-sided, with an even value on one side and the next higher odd value on the other, featuring different buildings and moats.

Currency cards: Four currencies with values ranging from 1 to 9.

Starting tiles: Each player begins with one.

Scoring cards: Placed in the deck to trigger scoring phases.

Player supplies: For storing money cards and building tiles.

How To Setup Granada

To set up *Granada*, lay out the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player receives a starting tile and a set of currency cards totaling a value between 20 and 28. Establish the currency market with four cards and the tile market with four tiles, each assigned to a specific currency. The tiles are placed with their even-side facing up. Ensure the scoring cards are inserted into the deck at the appropriate intervals.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Draw currency cards: Take one card or multiple cards with a combined value of no more than 5.

Purchase building tiles: Buy tiles using currency cards matching the tile’s price, optionally flipping the tile before placement.

Move building tiles: Place tiles from the reserve into the city, remove tiles from the city, or swap tiles between the reserve and the city.

Objective

Build and expand the city of Granada by acquiring and strategically placing building tiles.

Score points for moat sides on the city’s perimeter and for having the most buildings of each type.

The player with the most points at the end of the final scoring phase wins.

Player Experience

Playing *Granada* involves a blend of strategic planning and tactical execution. Players must manage their currency cards carefully to purchase the right tiles at the right time. The double-sided tiles add a layer of depth, as players can choose to flip tiles to reveal more valuable or strategically advantageous buildings. The game requires a balance between expanding the city’s perimeter to score moat points and collecting sets of buildings to maximize scoring during the scoring phases.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game offers complex decision-making with the double-sided tiles and the need to manage currency.

Replayability: The random placement of scoring cards and the variety of building tiles ensure each game is unique.

Thematic Integration: The game’s theme of building medieval Granada is well-integrated into the mechanics.

Cons

Learning Curve: New players may find the rules and strategies somewhat complex.

Length: Games can sometimes be longer than expected due to the strategic nature and the multiple scoring phases.

Luck Element: The draw of scoring cards and currency can introduce an element of luck.

Personal Thoughts on Granada

*Granada* is ideal for fans of German-style board games who enjoy strategic city-building and resource management. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate games with depth and replayability. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those who prefer quick, straightforward games. For those who enjoy the *Alhambra* series or similar games like *Carcassonne*, *Granada* offers a fresh yet familiar experience.

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