Dolmen (2015) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Dolmen is an abstract strategy game released in 2015 and designed by Marc Margielsky. The game is set in an ancient world and focuses on area majority and influence mechanics. Players take on the roles of tribal leaders competing to control territories and erect dolmens.

Game Components of Dolmen

Game Board: Features 28 stone circles (tetragonal, hexagonal, and octagonal) with rune portals.

Stones: 64 stones in total.

Boulders: 52 boulders with hidden values (1 to 4).

Druids: 12 druids, 3 per player.

Victory Point Markers: 4 markers.

Sticker Sheet: For applying value stickers to the boulders.

How To Setup Dolmen

To set up the game, place the game board in the middle of the table. Each player chooses a color and receives the corresponding druids and victory point marker. Players place their druids in front of them and their victory marker on space 5 of the moon track. Depending on the number of players, each player receives a specific number of stones and boulders, which they arrange in front of them, keeping the boulder values hidden.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Area Majority / Influence: Players compete to gain the majority of stones in stone circles.

Druid Movement: Players move one druid at a time, leaving a stone behind to create or alter stone circles.

Dolmen Construction: When a player gains the majority in a circle, they place a boulder with a hidden value in the center.

Scoring: The game ends when a player runs out of boulders or stones. Points are scored based on the boulder values, their position in the dolmen, and the shape of the stone circle.

Player Experience

**Dolmen** offers a strategic and somewhat complex gameplay experience. Players must carefully plan their moves to gain majorities in the stone circles and construct valuable dolmens. The game requires a balance between short-term and long-term strategies, making it engaging for players who enjoy abstract strategy games.

Pros

Deep Strategy: The game offers a rich strategic depth, making it appealing to fans of complex board games.

Unique Mechanics: The use of rune portals and hidden boulder values adds a layer of intrigue.

Replayability: Different player interactions and strategies ensure high replayability.

Cons

Complex Setup: The initial setup can be somewhat confusing, especially for new players.

Lengthy Games: Games can be longer due to the strategic nature and the need to carefully plan moves.

Learning Curve: The game has a moderate to high learning curve, which might deter casual players.

Personal Thoughts on Dolmen

**Dolmen** is ideal for players who enjoy abstract strategy games and are looking for a game that challenges their strategic thinking. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate games with unique mechanics and a high level of replayability. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those who prefer simpler, more straightforward games.

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