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Count of the Nine Estates (2021) Board Game

ByMichail

Count of the Nine Estates is a board game released in 2021 by designer Scott Allen Czysz and published by Button Shy. The game falls into the categories of card game, economic, and print & play, with a focus on hand management mechanics. The game is designed for 1 player and has a runtime of approximately 30 minutes. Players take on the role of landowners in medieval Europe, strategically managing their resources to become the most powerful noble in the land.

Game Components of Count of the Nine Estates

  • Cards:** 18 cards, including 9 Estate cards and 9 Structure cards.
  • Additional Components:** None needed; the game includes rules and the necessary cards.
  • Page Count for Print-and-Play (PNP):** 7 pages.
  • Art:** Created by Valentina Segovia.

    How To Setup Count of the Nine Estates

    To set up the game, separate the 9 Estate cards from the 9 Structure cards. Shuffle the Structure deck and draw a starting hand according to the rules. Place the Estate cards within reach as they are the targets to be built during the game.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Gameplay:** Players navigate through multiple rounds, drawing and playing Structure cards to gather resources and build necessary structures.
  • Objective:** The goal is to build the Estate cards by using the resources and structures obtained from the Structure deck.
  • Victory Points:**
    – Awarded from Estate cards and some Structure cards.
    – +1 victory point for each structure built.
    – +1 victory point for each duplicate structure built.
    – -2 victory points for each round played.

  • Game Eras:** The game is divided into two separate eras, each contributing to the final victory points.

    Player Experience

    Count of the Nine Estates offers a more strategic and free-feeling experience compared to its predecessor, Count of Nine. Players have more freedom in making decisions, as the game is not as linear. This compact solo euro game requires players to make strategic choices to optimize their resource gathering and structure building, aiming to maximize victory points.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** Provides more freedom and strategic decisions compared to the original.
  • Compact:** Easy to carry and set up with just 18 cards.
  • Engaging:** The game is divided into two eras, adding a layer of complexity and engagement.
  • Simple to Learn:** Despite its strategic depth, the game is relatively simple to learn and play.

    Cons

  • Limited Replayability:** With only 18 cards, replayability might be limited for some players.
  • Penalty for Rounds:** The -2 victory points per round can make the game feel somewhat rushed.

    Personal Thoughts on Count of the Nine Estates

    Count of the Nine Estates is ideal for fans of solo euro games and city-building mechanics. It is suited for players aged 8+ and takes about 30 minutes to play. The game’s compact nature and increased strategic freedom make it a great addition to any board game collection, especially for those who enjoy solo gameplay experiences. However, players seeking high replayability or more complex games might find it less appealing.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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