Citadels (2000) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Citadels is a card game designed by Bruno Faidutti and first published in 2000 by Hans im Glück. It has since become a popular game known for its bluffing and deduction elements, as well as its city-building theme set in a medieval fantasy world. The game has been praised for its strategic depth and replayability, making it a favorite among gamers.

Game Components of Citadels

Character cards with unique abilities

District cards (religious, noble, trade, military, and unique)

Gold coins

Crown token

Rulebook

How To Setup Citadels

To set up Citadels, start by shuffling the character deck and randomly discarding a set of characters based on the number of players. Each player then secretly selects a character card, passing the remaining cards to the next player. The crowned player, who has the crown token, initiates this selection phase. Each player begins with two gold coins and four district cards. Setup time is approximately 10 minutes.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Character Selection Phase: Players secretly choose character cards, each with a unique ability and rank.
– Characters determine turn order and special abilities.
– Some characters can steal gold, assassinate other characters, or swap hands with other players.

Action Phase: Players take turns in the order of their character’s rank.
– Gather resources: Take two gold coins or draw two district cards and keep one.
– Build districts: Use gold to build one district card from your hand.
– Use character-specific abilities.

Game Objective: Build the most impressive medieval city by constructing eight district cards.
– Earn points based on the cost of districts, completing your city first, and having a diverse set of districts.

Player Experience

In Citadels, players engage in a dynamic game of strategy and bluffing, utilizing the special abilities of their chosen characters to outmaneuver their opponents. The game is played over multiple rounds, with each round consisting of character selection and action phases. Players must balance resource gathering, district building, and using their character’s abilities to disrupt their opponents’ plans.

Pros

Deep Strategy: The game offers a rich strategic experience with multiple paths to victory.

High Replayability: The random character selection and diverse district cards ensure each game is unique.

Social Interaction: Players must bluff, negotiate, and strategically use their characters to affect other players.

Quick Rounds: Despite the strategic depth, rounds are relatively quick, keeping the game engaging.

Cons

Complexity: New players may find the number of characters and their abilities overwhelming.

Luck Element: Random character selection and district draws can introduce a significant luck factor.

Length: While rounds are quick, the entire game can take 45-60 minutes.

Personal Thoughts on Citadels

Citadels is a game for those who enjoy strategic planning, social interaction, and a bit of bluffing. It is ideal for players who like games with depth but are not intimidated by a moderate level of complexity. The game is suitable for players aged 10 and above and supports 2-8 players, although the 2-3 player versions have slightly adapted rules. For fans of games like Puerto Rico or other German-style board games, Citadels offers a unique and engaging experience that will keep you coming back for more.

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.