RatVille (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

RatVille is a city building board game that was released in in 2019. Designed by Lorena Azpiri, Ivan Iserte, and Chema Vicente, this game offers a unique take on the genre by incorporating elements of fantasy and variable player powers. With a playing time of 60-90 minutes and suitable for players aged 12 and above, RatVille has quickly gained popularity among board game enthusiasts.

Game Components of RatVille

Player boards

Resource tokens

Character cards

Event cards

Record management system

Dice (for resolving certain actions)

How To Setup RatVille

To set up RatVille, each player chooses a character card, which defines their unique abilities and starting resources. Players then receive their player boards and initial resources. The game area is set up with the event deck, resource tokens, and other necessary components. Each player must manage their record system, which is crucial for tracking resources and making decisions throughout the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Resource Management: Players must gather and manage resources efficiently.

Record Keeping: Keeping accurate records is essential for survival.

Character Abilities: Each character has unique skills that can be leveraged.

Event Resolution: Players must respond to events that occur in the sewers.

Objective: The goal is to survive as long as possible in the sewer environment by making strategic decisions about resource allocation and record management.

Player Experience

Players in RatVille are immersed in a challenging survival scenario, where every decision counts. The game requires strategic thinking, especially in managing resources and keeping accurate records. The unique character abilities add a layer of depth, allowing players to explore different strategies. However, the game’s complexity and the need for meticulous record-keeping can make it daunting for some players.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Offers a rich and challenging gameplay experience.

Character Variety: Unique character abilities add replay value.

Thematic Immersion: The sewer survival theme is well-integrated into the gameplay mechanics.

Cons

Complexity: The game’s rules and record-keeping system can be overwhelming.

Length: Games can be quite long, which may not appeal to all players.

User Rating: Has a relatively low user rating of 2.7/5, indicating mixed reviews.

Personal Thoughts on RatVille

RatVille is ideal for players who enjoy complex, strategic games with a strong thematic element. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate resource management and record-keeping mechanics. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a quick, light-hearted experience. If you’re up for a challenging survival game with deep strategic layers, RatVille could be an intriguing addition to your board game collection.

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