Cartouche (2023) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Cartouche is a board game designed by Tina Bongorno, known for its unique blend of enclosure, open drafting, simultaneous action selection, solo/solitaire game, and tile placement mechanics. Published in 2023, it is set in an ancient context, drawing on themes of Egyptian history and culture.

Game Components of Cartouche

Tiles for rebuilding murals

Story completion elements

Point tracking system

Player boards

How To Setup Cartouche

To set up Cartouche, players begin by preparing the tile pool and each player’s board. The game involves drafting tiles, which are then arranged to restore murals and complete stories. The setup is straightforward, ensuring a quick transition into the gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Tile Laying: Players arrange tiles to restore ancient murals.

Drafting: Tiles are drafted each round to add to the players’ collections.

Point Scoring: Points are earned based on where tiles are placed and where they are not.

Objective: The goal is to carefully choose tile placements to maximize points and restore the pharaoh’s legacy.

Player Experience

In Cartouche, players are immersed in a world of ancient Egyptian archeology, tasked with the meticulous work of restoring historical murals. The game requires strategic thinking, as the placement and non-placement of tiles both contribute to the final score. With a playtime of 20 minutes per player, it offers a concise yet engaging experience for 1-4 players.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game demands careful planning and strategic tile placement.

Thematic Immersion: The ancient Egyptian setting provides a unique and engaging theme.

Quick Playtime: The game is relatively short, making it accessible for various player groups.

Solo Play: It supports solo play, offering a versatile experience.

Cons

Complexity: The game may require some time to understand the optimal strategies for tile placement.

Limited Replayability: Depending on the tile combinations, some players might find the game repetitive.

Personal Thoughts on Cartouche

Cartouche is an excellent choice for fans of tile-laying games and those interested in ancient history. It’s ideal for players who enjoy strategic gameplay with a unique twist, as the empty spaces are just as crucial as the tiles themselves. The game’s short playtime and solo play option make it a great addition to any board game collection, especially for those who appreciate a blend of strategy and thematic immersion.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.