Bronze (2017) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Bronze, released in 2017, is a civilization-themed board game designed by Konstantin Domashev and published by Hobby World. Players take on the roles of ancient tribes competing to develop the most advanced society in prehistoric times. With a mix of area majority/influence, deck building, and network building mechanics, Bronze offers a strategic gaming experience for 2-4 players aged 12 and above.

Game Components of Bronze

Technology cards: Each card displays three of the seven terrain types and two of the four structures.

Settlement markers: Used to place settlements on the terrain types.

Land tiles: Revealed progressively as players settle on them.

City cards: Provide end-game scoring conditions and are drawn when a player first settles on a new land tile.

How To Setup Bronze

Setup involves placing the initial land tiles face up and distributing the technology cards. Each player starts with a set of settlement markers. The game begins with only one or two land tiles revealed, depending on the number of players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Technology Card Selection: Players choose one of the four available technology cards each turn, which allows them to place a settlement marker on one of the displayed terrains.

Settlement Placement: Settlements can only be placed on terrains with available structures of the same type.

Land Tile Progression: New land tiles are revealed as settlements are placed on the right-most tile.

City Card Incentives: The first player to settle on a new land tile draws city cards, which offer end-game scoring conditions.

Scoring: Points are awarded for majority settlements on each land tile, unbroken routes of settlements, and city card conditions.

Game End: The game ends when two technology decks are emptied, a player runs out of settlement markers, or the final land tile is fully developed.

Player Experience

Bronze requires players to balance their progression and control over the terrain. The game involves strategic planning, as players must decide whether to focus on early settlement to gain advantages or to develop more on previous land tiles. The dynamic of blocking opponents’ routes adds a competitive edge, making it essential to not telegraph plans too clearly.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Players must make calculated decisions on settlement placement and technology card use.

Competitive Interaction: The game encourages confrontation and strategic blocking of opponents’ routes.

City Card Incentives: Provides additional scoring opportunities and adds a layer of strategy.

Cons

Prolonged Gameplay: The game can drag on, especially with four players, often exceeding 90 minutes.

Repetitive Feel: The gameplay can feel repetitive as players continue to place settlements and draw technology cards.

Personal Thoughts on Bronze

Bronze is for players who enjoy area control and route building games with a high level of strategic depth. It is ideal for those who like to balance short-term and long-term goals and are comfortable with a mix of planning and adaptation. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer shorter game sessions or those who dislike games with a strong competitive edge.

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