Anno Domini 1666 (2019) Board Game

Anno Domini 1666 is a board game set in an alternate 17th century Europe where various factions battle for power. The game combines historical elements with fantasy elements, creating a unique and immersive gaming experience. Designed by Pavel Chuvin, Monika Sochacka, and Marek Szyszko, it was released in 2019 and has been well-received by players for its engaging gameplay and detailed miniatures.

Game Components of Anno Domini 1666

27 highly detailed plastic miniatures

3 two-sided boards depicting 17th-century Vienna with a grid overlay

Over 250 custom cards

Rulebook and Playbook

2 faction cards

2 player aid sheets

Archenemy sheet

Several sheets of counters.

How To Setup Anno Domini 1666

Setting up the game involves preparing the boards, shuffling and dealing the custom card decks, and selecting the miniatures and counters for each player’s band. The game uses a draft system to streamline the process of building a band, allowing players to quickly assemble their teams. Players also need to choose a scenario, which defines the objectives and setup for the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics: The game replaces dice rolls with cards played from a player’s hand or drawn blindly from a deck.

Game Objective: Players control bands of characters (swashbucklers, musketeers, thugs) to achieve specific scenario-defined goals, such as defeating opponents in combat, stealing valuable objects, or breaking out hostages. The game involves tactical decisions and strategic use of cards and miniatures.

Player Experience

Anno Domini 1666 offers a dynamic and immersive experience, blending strategy and adventure. Players must manage their resources carefully, using cards and miniatures to outmaneuver their opponents. The game’s setting in 17th-century Vienna adds a rich historical backdrop, while the inclusion of magical and fantastical elements adds a layer of excitement and unpredictability.

Pros

Rich Setting: Combines historical accuracy with magical and fantastical elements.

Strategic Depth: Uses a card-based system that requires tactical thinking.

High-Quality Components: Includes detailed miniatures and custom cards.

Variety of Objectives: Scenarios offer diverse goals beyond simple combat.

Streamlined Band Building: The draft system makes building a band fast and efficient.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be complex for new players due to the variety of rules and components.

Limited Player Count: Designed for two players, which may limit its appeal for larger groups.

No Tuck Box for Cards: The custom card decks come only in cellophane wrapping, lacking a tuck box.

Personal Thoughts on Anno Domini 1666

Anno Domini 1666 is ideal for fans of tactical miniatures games and those who enjoy a blend of historical and fantastical elements. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate strategic gameplay and are willing to invest time in learning the rules. The game’s unique setting and mechanics make it a standout in the board game community, offering a compelling experience for players looking for something beyond the usual fare.

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