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Rattus Cartus (2012) Board Game

ByMichail

Rattus Cartus is a card game released in 2012 by designer Alexandre Roche. It is set in medieval times and combines elements of hand management, push your luck, and worker placement mechanics. The game is published by White Goblin Games and is suitable for 2 to 5 players, with a runtime of 30 to 45 minutes.

Game Components of Rattus Cartus

  • 12 different building cards
  • Various follower cards representing different classes of the Middle Ages
  • Stranger cards, including rats
  • Player tokens and scoring system

    How To Setup Rattus Cartus

    To set up Rattus Cartus, players start by shuffling the building and follower decks. Each player chooses a starting hand of follower cards. The building cards are placed face down on the table, and each day (round) a new building is revealed, offering different benefits and followers. Players must decide which buildings to visit to recruit followers and manage the risk of encountering rats and the plague.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Player Count:** 2 – 5 players
  • Playing Time:** 30 – 45 minutes
  • Age:** 10 and up
  • Mechanics:** Hand Management, Area Control, Risk Management
  • Objective:** Gather loyal supporters from various classes to gain the most influence and replace the ruler.

    Player Experience

    In Rattus Cartus, players embark on a strategic journey through medieval towns, balancing the need to gather followers with the risk of encountering the plague. Each day, players visit different buildings, recruiting followers and sometimes taking chances on strangers. The presence of rats adds an element of unpredictability, making the game both challenging and engaging.

    Pros

  • Variety in Gameplay:** Using all or only some of the 12 buildings each game provides a wide variety of play.
  • Strategic Depth:** Players must manage risks and benefits carefully.
  • Thematic Immersion:** The medieval setting and plague mechanics create a unique and engaging theme.
  • Family-Friendly:** Suitable for players aged 10 and above.

    Cons

  • Luck Factor:** The random draw of cards and the presence of rats can introduce a significant luck element.
  • Complexity for Younger Players:** While the age recommendation is 10, younger players might find the strategy and risk management challenging.

    Personal Thoughts on Rattus Cartus

    Rattus Cartus is ideal for players who enjoy strategic card games with a historical twist. It is particularly suited for families or casual gamers looking for a game that balances luck and strategy. The game’s unique theme and mechanics make it a compelling addition to any board game collection, especially for those interested in medieval settings and strategic gameplay. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer games with minimal luck or those seeking a highly complex, hardcore strategy experience.

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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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