Discworld: Ankh-Morpork (2011) Board Game

Discworld: Ankh-Morpork is a board game based on Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series, specifically focusing on the city of Ankh-Morpork. Released in 2011, the game is designed by Martin Wallace and published by Treefrog Games. The game transports players into the chaotic and humorous world of Discworld, where they take on the roles of different characters vying for control of the city.

Game Components of Discworld: Ankh-Morpork

Playing Board: A map of Ankh-Morpork divided into twelve areas.

Player Aid Cards: Four reference cards explaining key game aspects.

Rule Book: Detailed instructions for gameplay.

Player Cards: Two decks (48 green-border and 53 brown-border cards).

Coins: 17 gold coins ($5 each) and 35 silver coins ($1 each).

Minion Pieces: Four sets of twelve minions in different colors.

Building Pieces: Four sets of six buildings in different colors.

Demon and Troll Pieces: Four orange demon pieces and three brown troll pieces.

Trouble Markers: Twelve black markers.

City Area Cards: Twelve cards matching the board areas.

Personality Cards: Seven secret cards with individual victory conditions.

Random Event Cards: Twelve cards introducing various events during the game.

12-sided Die: For resolving certain actions.

How To Setup Discworld: Ankh-Morpork

To set up the game, each player chooses a color and receives a secret **Personality Card** with their specific victory conditions. Players start by placing three minions on the board in **The Shades**, **The Scours**, and **Dolly Sisters**, which automatically triggers the placement of **Trouble Markers** in these areas. The green deck of cards is shuffled and used first, followed by the brown deck as the game progresses. Each player draws five cards to begin their hand.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Play: Players take turns playing one card from their hand, which can allow actions like placing minions, assassinating opponents’ minions, building structures, drawing more cards, or earning money.

Minion Placement: Players place minions and buildings in different areas of the board to control territories.

Trouble Markers: These markers are placed when a minion is added to an area already containing another minion and are removed when the area is cleared.

Secret Objectives: Each player has a secret **Personality Card** with unique victory conditions related to minion placement, trouble markers, or money accumulation.

Game End: The game ends when a player meets their victory condition or when the deck of cards runs out, leading to a points-based determination of the winner.

Player Experience

Playing **Discworld: Ankh-Morpork** is an engaging experience that combines strategy with a dash of luck. The game is relatively simple to teach but offers deep strategic layers, especially with the use of **Trouble Markers** and secret objectives. It appeals both to fans of the Discworld series and to those new to the universe, though fans will likely appreciate the thematic elements more. The game requires a balance of short-term tactics and long-term planning, making it enjoyable for a wide range of players.

Pros

Engaging Theme: Faithfully represents the Discworld universe, making it a joy for fans.

Simple to Learn: Easy to teach and learn, even for new board game players.

Deep Strategy: Combines card play with area control and secret objectives.

High Replayability: Unique cards and secret objectives ensure different experiences each game.

Artwork: Hilarious and beautifully illustrated cards and components.

Cons

Colour Blindness Issues: The game suffers from poor colour differentiation, making it challenging for players with colour blindness.

Complex Board State: The game state can become complex, especially with the movement of minions and the placement of trouble markers.

Luck of the Draw: Players can be significantly affected by the cards they draw, which can sometimes hinder their progress.

Personal Thoughts on Discworld: Ankh-Morpork

**Discworld: Ankh-Morpork** is a game that is perfect for both fans of Terry Pratchett’s works and those who enjoy strategic board games with a hint of mystery. The secret objectives and the dynamic use of **Trouble Markers** add a layer of complexity that keeps the game exciting and challenging. However, it may not be the best choice for players with colour blindness or those who prefer games with less randomness. Overall, it’s a great addition to any board game collection, especially for those who appreciate the blend of strategy and thematic depth.

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