Calimala (2017) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Calimala is a board game that was released in 2017 by designer Fabio Lopiano and published by ADC Blackfire Entertainment GmbH. Set in medieval Florence, players take on the roles of guild members who aim to contribute to the construction of the city’s famous cathedral, the Duomo. With a focus on economic and industry aspects, the game offers a strategic and competitive gameplay experience.

Game Components of Calimala

Game board

Player boards

Cloth tokens

Foreign market cards

Guild cards

Money tokens

Various other tokens and markers specific to the game mechanics

How To Setup Calimala

To set up Calimala, begin by placing the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a player board and places it in front of them. Shuffle the foreign market cards and guild cards, then deal a set number to each player. Distribute the starting money and cloth tokens according to the rules. Finally, determine the starting player, often through a random draw.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Eurogame

Mechanics: Resource Management, Worker Placement, Trading

Objective: Players aim to produce and trade cloth, then sell it to foreign markets to earn points.

Player Count: 3-5 players

Playtime: 75 minutes

Suggested Age: 10 and up

Player Experience

In Calimala, players are immersed in the medieval world of cloth production and trade. The game requires strategic planning, as players must manage resources effectively, place workers to optimize production, and negotiate trades to gain the best market prices. The interaction with foreign market cards adds a layer of unpredictability, challenging players to adapt their strategies.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The historical setting and detailed mechanics make the game highly immersive.

Deep Strategy: The combination of resource management and worker placement offers a rich strategic experience.

Replayability: The random distribution of foreign market cards and guild cards ensures each game is unique.

Component Quality: The game components, especially in the deluxe edition, are of high quality and visually appealing.

Cons

Complexity: The game has a steep learning curve, which may deter new players.

Playtime: The 75-minute playtime can be lengthy for some players.

Limited Player Count: The game is best with 3-5 players, which might limit its appeal for larger or smaller groups.

Personal Thoughts on Calimala

Calimala is ideal for fans of Eurogames and strategic board games. It offers a challenging and engaging experience that rewards careful planning and adaptability. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and playtime, it is a great addition to any serious board game collection. The game’s historical context and detailed mechanics make it a standout in the genre, particularly appealing to those who enjoy resource management and trading mechanics.

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