Manila (2005) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Manila is a board game released in 2005 by designer Franz-Benno Delonge and published by Zoch Verlag. The game is set in the bustling port city of Manila during the 19th century, where players take on the roles of investors trying to make a profit by speculating on the cargo being brought in by ships.

Game Components of Manila

1 game board

4 ware loads

4 dice (each matching the color of a specific ware: jade, ginseng, silk, and nutmeg)

4 value indicators

20 accomplices in five colors

3 wooden boats (punts)

48 Philippines Coins (in various denominations)

79 Coin Tokens

Rule booklet.

How To Setup Manila

To set up Manila, players start by placing the game board in the middle of the table. Each player receives two random shares of goods and 30 pesos. The remaining shares are placed face up nearby, with their respective markers on the track from zero to thirty. Each player also receives three accomplices (four if there are only three players). The first round is ready to begin once the initial auction for the harbor master position takes place.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Auction/Bidding: Players bid to become the harbor master, influencing which goods are shipped and their likelihood of success.

Commodity Speculation: Players speculate on the success or failure of different goods shipments.

Dice Rolling: The success of each shipment is determined by dice rolls.

Worker Placement: Players place accomplices on the board to manage and influence the shipments.

Loans/Credit: Players can take loans (credit) to purchase shares, which must be repaid with interest.

Game Objective

The objective is to accumulate the highest fortune by successfully speculating on goods shipments and managing risks. The game ends when the value marker for at least one ware reaches 30 on the black market table. Players count their cash, add the value of their shares, and subtract any unpaid loan amounts to determine their final fortune. The player with the highest fortune wins.

Player Experience

Playing Manila is an engaging and speculative experience, blending strategy, risk, and luck. Players cheer and jeer as boats navigate the river, adding a lively and raucous atmosphere to the game. The dynamic shipments and dice-determined outcomes create excitement and unpredictability, making each round thrilling. The game works well with three to five players, with fiercer bidding and more filled positions on the board with five players.

Pros

Engaging Gameplay: Combines strategy, risk, and luck to keep players engaged.

Dynamic Shipments: Each round offers different challenges and opportunities.

Easy to Learn: Simple to understand, making it accessible to players of all ages.

High Replayability: Different starting conditions and dice rolls ensure no two games are the same.

Awards and Recognition: Nominated for several prestigious board game awards, including the Deutscher Spiele Preis and As d’Or – Jeu de l’Année.

Cons

Luck Factor: The game involves a significant amount of luck due to dice rolls, which may frustrate some players.

Limited Control: While players can influence outcomes, dice rolls can greatly affect the success of their shipments.

Coin Shortage: Some players have reported running out of coins during gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Manila

Manila is perfect for families and groups looking for a fun, easy-to-learn game that combines elements of strategy, chance, and speculation. It brings to life the vibrant and risky world of maritime trade, offering a unique and engaging experience for players of all ages. Despite the luck factor, discerning players can make better guesses and influence the game to their advantage, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a mix of strategy and excitement.

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