An Age Contrived (2024) Board Game

An Age Contrived is a board game designed by Chris Matthew and published by Bellows Intent in in 2024. The game takes players on a journey through various ages, combining elements of economics, fantasy, mythology, and travel. With beautiful artwork by Serena Malyon, the game offers a unique and immersive experience for 1 to 5 players.

Game Components of An Age Contrived

Main board

Monument Randomiser Tokens

Metal frames for Monuments

Bridge Tokens

Channel Marker

Action Tokens

Transmutation Device

Transmuter Tiles

Energy Tokens

Neutral Bridge Tokens

Start player marker

Quick-start cards

How To Setup An Age Contrived

To set up the game, start by placing the main board on the table. Shuffle the Monument Randomiser Tokens and draw a number matching the player count; these Monuments will be used alongside the Beacon Monument. Place the metal frames for each Monument into their positions under the game board, starting with the middle Monument and then the sides. Each player places their three Bridge Tokens onto their Character Board, along with their Channel Marker (face up for two players, face down otherwise). Players then place their five Action Tokens into their Transmutation Device and position the two Transmuter Tiles numbered zero to the left. Energy Tokens are placed according to the quick-start card, with one token in the Tile Pool on the main board. Neutral Bridge Tokens are randomly dealt onto the broken path spaces, and a start player is chosen.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Engine building

Resource management

Action taking

Combo turns

Objective

Players compete to score the most victory points by advancing their channel, taking actions, and managing resources. Points are awarded for fully gained energy types, energy bound to Monuments or Pillar spaces, Tier three bridges built, and achievements.

Player Experience

Playing **An Age Contrived** is a delightful experience, especially as players master the art of building combos and managing multiple tasks. The game starts slowly, but as players learn the strategy, their turns become more efficient and scores improve. The balance between game pace, strategy, and performance is fascinating, making each game engaging and challenging.

Pros

Multiple viable paths to victory

High replayability due to varied Monument placements and achievements

Satisfying combo turns and engine building

Rich strategic depth

Beautifully designed main board

Cons

Steep learning curve, requiring a few games to fully understand the strategy

Initial setup can be complex, especially with the Monument metal frames

Potential for one player to monopolize scoring areas if not managed well

Personal Thoughts on An Age Contrived

**An Age Contrived** is ideal for fans of complex euro games like *Anachrony*, *Tzolk’in*, and *Le Harve*. It’s perfect for players who enjoy engine building, resource management, and strategic planning. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity, enthusiasts of deeper strategy will find it highly rewarding. The game’s ability to balance individual player progress with overall game pace makes it a standout in its genre.

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