Manille Board Game – Board Game Guys

Manille is a classic trick-taking card game that originated in France during the 19th century. It is also known as “Belote Coinchée” in French-speaking regions. The game has gained popularity in Europe and has been adapted into various versions over the years. Manille involves strategic gameplay as players aim to win tricks and collect points.

Game Components of Manille Board Game

Game board

3 punts

20 accomplices in five colors

20 shares: 5 each of 4 wares (nutmeg, silk, jade, and ginseng)

4 ware loads for the 4 wares

4 dice (in the colors of the 4 wares)

4 value indicators (in the colors of the 4 wares)

Coins of the Philippine currency, “PESO”

Various tokens for pilots, pirates, shipyard, and wharf roles.

How To Setup Manille Board Game

To set up the game, each player starts with 2 ware shares and 30 PESOS. The game board is prepared by placing the punts, ware loads, and other components in their designated areas. The office of the harbor master is auctioned at the beginning of each voyage, which is crucial as it determines which wares will be loaded and where the punts will sail from. Players then hire accomplices to help them earn money on the voyage.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Voyages: The game is played over several rounds, each called a voyage.

Die Rolls: Punts move based on die rolls, with each die corresponding to a type of ware.

Accomplices: Players deploy accomplices on punts, at ports, shipyards, as insurance agents, pilots, or pirates.

Earning Money: Players earn money if their punts reach Manila safely, or through other deployments of accomplices.

Black Market: Wares that reach Manila increase in value on the black market.

Game Objective: The game ends when the value marker for at least one ware reaches 30. The player with the highest fortune, calculated by adding cash and the value of shares while subtracting any loan repayments, is the winner.

Player Experience

Playing Manila immerses you in a world of maritime trade and black market dealings, where strategy and risk management are key. Players must navigate the uncertainties of sea travel, pirate attacks, and market fluctuations to accumulate wealth. The game demands a balance between investing in shares, deploying accomplices effectively, and managing risks.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The game offers a unique historical and thematic setting.

Complex Strategy: Multiple layers of strategy, including resource management and risk mitigation.

Interactive: Players interact through auctions, deployments of accomplices, and competitive voyages.

Replayability: High replayability due to the random nature of die rolls and the various strategies players can employ.

Cons

Complexity: The game has a steep learning curve due to its intricate mechanics.

Luck Factor: The game includes elements of luck, particularly with die rolls, which can affect player outcomes.

Length: The game can be lengthy, as it involves multiple voyages and various phases.

Personal Thoughts on Manille Board Game

Manila is for players who enjoy strategic and thematic games with a mix of luck and skill. It is ideal for those who appreciate games that require long-term planning, resource management, and interactive gameplay. The game’s complexity makes it more suited for experienced board game enthusiasts rather than casual players. If you’re looking for a game that combines economic strategy with adventure and historical context, Manila is an excellent choice.

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