Atelier (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Atelier is a card game released in 2020, designed by Davide Ghelfi and illustrated by Red Glove. It is a game that falls under the category of card games and utilizes mechanisms such as hand management, open drafting, and set collection. The game is suitable for 2 to 5 players, with a playtime of around 30 to 40 minutes. It is recommended for players aged 8 and above.

Game Components of Atelier

Player boards

Dice

Painting cards

Studio tiles

Pigment tokens

Artwork tokens

Scorepad

How To Setup Atelier

To set up Atelier, each player chooses a player board and places it in front of them. The studio tiles are arranged in the middle of the table to form the studio. Each player receives a set of dice and some pigment tokens. The painting cards and artwork tokens are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. Players then determine who starts by rolling the dice, with the highest roll going first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics: Worker placement, dice rolling, set collection

Objective: To create the most valuable paintings by collecting and using the right pigments and painting techniques.
– Players roll dice to determine which actions they can take.
– Actions include collecting pigments, using techniques, and painting artwork.
– Players must manage their studio efficiently to maximize their scoring.

Player Experience

Atelier offers a unique blend of strategic planning and luck, as the roll of the dice can significantly influence a player’s turn. The game is themed around a painting studio, adding a creative and artistic twist to traditional worker placement and set collection mechanics. Players need to balance their short-term needs with long-term goals, making it engaging and challenging.

Pros

Thematic Integration: The game’s theme is well-integrated with its mechanics, creating an immersive experience.

Strategic Depth: The combination of dice rolling and worker placement offers a good balance of luck and strategy.

Artistic Appeal: The game’s artwork and components are visually appealing and enhance the overall experience.

Cons

Luck Factor: The dice rolls can introduce a significant element of luck, which may not appeal to all players.

Learning Curve: Understanding the various painting techniques and pigments can take some time to learn.

Replayability: The game’s replayability may be limited by the fixed set of painting cards and techniques.

Personal Thoughts on Atelier

Atelier is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a creative twist. It is suitable for those who appreciate worker placement and set collection mechanics but also want to experience something unique and artistically themed. The game is not overly complex but does require some strategic thinking, making it a good choice for players looking for a mid-weight game. However, those who prefer games with minimal luck or highly variable gameplay might find Atelier less appealing.

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