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Galenus (2022) Board Game

ByMichail

Galenus is a board game that takes players back to ancient times to experience the world of Galen, a prominent physician and philosopher in the Roman Empire. Players will delve into the world of medicine and ancient knowledge as they compete to become the most renowned healer in the empire.

Game Components of Galenus

  • Region cards
  • City player board
  • Journey cards
  • Player boards
  • Player aids
  • Competition track
  • Medical tokens
  • Worker tokens
  • Competition tokens
  • Point marker

    How To Setup Galenus

    To set up Galenus, each player receives a player board and the necessary tokens. The game area is organized with the city board, region cards, journey cards, and the competition track. Players start by placing their worker tokens and setting up their individual boards according to the game’s initial instructions.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Worker Placement:** Players plan up to 6 actions and decide when to resolve them.
  • Action Planning:** Players can still plan actions while others are resolving theirs.
  • Recruiting and Treating Patients:** Gain knowledge in one of four humors.
  • Publishing Works:** Based on the knowledge gained.
  • Acquiring Herbs:** To aid in medical practices.
  • Rejuvenating in the Baths:** Restore focus.
  • Adopting New Philosophies:** Enhance medical practices.
  • Medical Contests:** Compete at the end of the year to gain reputation.
  • Objective:** Earn the respect of Galenus by publishing notable works or making a significant impact, entering his inner sanctum.

    Player Experience

    In Galenus, players immerse themselves in the competitive world of ancient Roman medicine. The game combines strategic planning with the dynamic of resolving actions at different times, adding a layer of complexity and interaction. Players must balance recruiting patients, publishing works, and acquiring resources to outdo their rivals in medical contests.

    Pros

  • Deep Strategy:** Worker placement and action resolution mechanics offer a rich strategic experience.
  • Thematic Immersion:** The game’s setting in ancient Rome and focus on medical practices create a unique and engaging theme.
  • Competitive:** Medical contests and the pursuit of Galenus’s respect add a competitive edge.

    Cons

  • Complexity:** The game’s mechanics can be overwhelming for new players.
  • Length:** Games can be lengthy due to the planning and resolution phases.

    Personal Thoughts on Galenus

    Galenus is ideal for fans of worker placement games and those who appreciate a strong thematic backdrop. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy strategic planning and competitive gameplay. However, due to its complexity, it may not be the best fit for casual or new board game enthusiasts. For those willing to dive into its intricate mechanics, Galenus offers a rewarding and immersive experience that captures the essence of medical rivalry in ancient Rome.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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