Columbus (1991) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Columbus is a board game released in 1991 that takes players on a journey of exploration and nautical adventure. Designed by Wolfgang Kramer, Felix Seeberger, and Thomas Thiemeyer, the game is set in the Age of Discovery, where players take on the roles of famous explorers navigating the seas to discover new lands.

Game Components of Columbus

Hexagon Grid game board

Exploration tiles

Ship tokens

Player markers

Rulebook

How To Setup Columbus

Place the hexagon grid game board in the center of the table.

Shuffle the exploration tiles and place them face down.

Each player selects a color and takes the corresponding ship token and player marker.

Place the player markers on the starting spaces on the board.

Determine a starting player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take turns exploring new territories by placing exploration tiles on the hexagon grid board. By strategically placing tiles, players can expand their territories, block opponents, and earn points. The objective of the game is to explore as much of the map as possible and earn the most points by the end of the game.

Player Experience

Pros:

Strategic tile placement mechanics

Engaging theme of exploration and adventure

Easy to learn rules for all ages

Cons:

Limited replay value for experienced players

Luck can play a factor in tile draws

Personal Thoughts on Columbus

Columbus is a well-designed game that captures the spirit of exploration and discovery. The tile placement mechanics offer strategic depth, while the theme immerses players in the Age of Discovery. However, the game may lack replay value for experienced players looking for more complex gameplay.

In terms of build quality, Columbus features sturdy components that hold up well over repeated plays. The game’s category of exploration and nautical themes makes it a unique addition to any board game collection.

In terms of pricing and availability, Columbus may be harder to find as it was released in in 1991. However, used copies can be found online through various sellers. Alternatives such as Carcassonne or Isle of Skye offer similar tile placement mechanics for players interested in exploring new territories.

Overall, Columbus is worth your time if you enjoy strategic tile placement games with a nautical theme. It is suitable for players aged 10 and up, making it a great choice for families or casual gamers. However, experienced players may find the game lacking in depth compared to other more complex board games.

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