Blueprints (2013) Board Game

Blueprints is a board game designed by Yves Tourigny and published by Z-Man Games in in 2013. It is a game that combines aspects of dice rolling, pattern building, and set collection to create a unique gameplay experience. With beautiful artwork by Philippe Guérin and Chris Quilliams, Blueprints has gained popularity among board game enthusiasts for its strategic gameplay and engaging mechanics.

Game Components of Blueprints

32 Dice (8 each of 4 colors: clear for glass, orange for wood, black for stone, and green for recycled materials)

24 Blueprint Cards

9 Award Cards

12 Prize Cards

4 Screens

4 Scoring Markers

1 Scoreboard

1 Cloth Bag

Rulebook.

How To Setup Blueprints

To set up Blueprints, each player receives a blueprint card, which they hide behind their screen. Six starting dice are drawn from the cloth bag, rolled, and placed in the draft pool. The game is ready to begin once all players have their blueprint cards and the dice pool is established.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Drafting and Placement: Players select one die from the pool each turn and add it to their structure, adhering to placement rules (e.g., a stacked die must have a face value equal to or greater than the one below it).

Rounds and Scoring: The game is played over three identical rounds. After each round, players reveal their constructions and score points based on the materials used and the structure’s height.

Awards and Prizes: Players earn awards and prizes for fulfilling specific conditions (e.g., having four of the same number, five of the same color, or building a structure five dice high).

Game Objective: The player with the most award points at the end of three rounds is declared the winner.

Player Experience

Playing Blueprints is a fun and strategic experience. The game offers a good balance between luck and skill, as players must make strategic decisions about which dice to select and how to place them. The thematic use of dice as building blocks adds a creative element, making the game both visually appealing and engaging. Players can choose to follow their blueprint for bonus points or aim for additional awards by fulfilling specific prize conditions.

Pros

Quick to Teach and Play: The game is easy to learn and quick to play, making it accessible to new players.

Balanced Luck and Skill: The game manages dice rolls well, allowing for strategic decisions without being overly punishing.

Multiple Playstyles: Players can choose different strategies, such as focusing on the blueprint or aiming for prize cards.

Compact and Good Quality Components: The game comes in a small box with well-designed and durable components.

Cons

Scoring System Complexity: New players might find the scoring system confusing, distinguishing between round points and game points.

Randomness Impact: The limited dice pool can sometimes lead to no optimal choices, which can be frustrating.

Hidden Building Limitation: The use of screens can limit player interaction, though it also adds an element of surprise to the game.

Personal Thoughts on Blueprints

Blueprints is an excellent game for those who enjoy light, strategic games with a creative twist. It is perfect for families and casual gamers who appreciate the satisfaction of building structures and making tactical decisions. The game’s simplicity and elegance make it a great addition to any game collection, especially for those looking for a quick and engaging experience. If you’re a fan of dice games and architectural themes, Blueprints is certainly worth checking out.

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