Agropolis (2021) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Agropolis is a card game designed by Steven Aramini, Danny Devine, and Paul Kluka, and published by Button Shy in in 2021. The game falls under the categories of City Building, Farming, Print & Play, and Territory Building. With a playing time of 15-20 minutes, Agropolis is designed for 1-4 players aged 8 and above. The game features closed drafting, cooperative gameplay, layering, solo/solitaire play, and tile placement mechanisms.

Game Components of Agropolis

18 cards, each with a 2×2 grid representing different terrains (cornfield, orchard, vineyard, livestock)

3 scoring condition cards

Rulebook

Optional expansions: Combopolis, Invasion and Points of Interest, Seasons.

How To Setup Agropolis

Setting up Agropolis is straightforward. Players start by shuffling the deck and drawing three scoring condition cards, which set the target score for the game. These cards also outline the scoring criteria. The remaining cards are then shuffled, and the game begins with the player placing the first card on the table. Subsequent cards must be placed adjacent to already played cards, following specific orientation rules.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Placement: Players place 2×2 grid cards adjacent to each other, ensuring they align horizontally.

Scoring: The objective is to meet or exceed the target score set by the three scoring condition cards. Scoring is based on the largest connected blocks of each terrain type and additional points from livestock.

Livestock and Feed Fees: Livestock spaces can have one or two pens, and different animals (pigs, chickens, cows) affect scoring. The “Feed Fees” expansion adds an extra layer of challenge by requiring additional points for each cow.

Combopolis Expansion: Allows combination with Sprawlopolis, introducing new scoring conditions and terrain types.

Player Experience

Agropolis offers a quick and engaging experience, suitable for players of all ages (8+). The game is designed for 1-4 players and lasts about 15-20 minutes. While it is marketed as a cooperative game, it is often noted that it works better as a solo game due to its nature and scoring mechanics. The game’s simplicity and compact design make it easy to learn and play, even in a solo mode.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple and clear rulebook.

Compact: Fits in a small wallet-sized package.

Variety: Different scoring conditions and expansions add replayability.

Solo Mode: Well-designed solo mode makes it easy to play alone.

Combination with Sprawlopolis: Combopolis expansion offers a new way to play by combining with another game.

Cons

Limited Cooperative Experience: Works better as a solo game rather than cooperative.

Repetitive: Some players might find the gameplay repetitive.

Additional Challenge Needed: For experienced players, the base game might be too easy without the expansions.

Personal Thoughts on Agropolis

Agropolis is perfect for those who enjoy quick, strategic games with a simple yet engaging mechanic. It is ideal for solo players or families looking for a game that can be played in a short amount of time. The combination with Sprawlopolis via the Combopolis expansion adds a new layer of complexity and fun for those who own both games. If you’re looking for a compact, easy-to-learn game with a rural theme, Agropolis is a great choice.

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