Gentes (2017) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Gentes is a board game released in 2017 that allows 1-4 players to experience the rise of ancient civilizations. Designed by Harald Lieske and Adam P. McIver, this game takes players on a journey through history as they build their own civilizations and compete for resources and power.

Game Components of Gentes

Game board

Player boards

Tokens for various resources and actions

Cards for events, buildings, and technologies

Dice for resolving actions

How To Setup Gentes

Setting up **Gentes** involves each player choosing a player board and placing it within reach. The main game board is placed centrally, and the resource tokens, cards, and dice are distributed according to the rules. Each player starts with a set of basic resources and a few starting cards. The game’s timing mechanism, which involves a unique Rondel system, is also set up at this stage.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Resource Management: Players manage resources such as money, actions, and influence.

Action Point Allowance System: Players use a Rondel to perform actions, adding a layer of timing and strategy.

Card Drafting: Players draft cards to build structures, recruit leaders, and gain technologies.

Area Control: Players compete to influence different regions on the board.

Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most victory points by building structures, recruiting leaders, and gaining influence over various regions.

Player Experience

Playing **Gentes** involves a mix of strategic planning and tactical execution. Players must carefully manage their resources and timing to optimize their actions. The game offers a deep and engaging experience, particularly for fans of civilization and strategy games. The innovative timing mechanism adds a unique twist, making each turn feel dynamic and challenging.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: The Rondel system provides a fresh take on action management.

Deep Strategy: The game offers multiple layers of strategy and planning.

High Replayability: Different card draws and player choices ensure varied gameplay experiences.

Visually Appealing: The game components and board are well-designed and visually appealing.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game has a steep learning curve due to its unique mechanics.

Long Playtime: The game can take up to 90 minutes to complete.

High Level of Interaction: While engaging, the game can be highly competitive, which might not suit all players.

Personal Thoughts on Gentes

**Gentes** is ideal for fans of complex strategy games and those who enjoy civilization-building mechanics. It is particularly suited for experienced gamers who appreciate deep strategic gameplay and are willing to invest the time to learn and master the game’s unique mechanics. If you’re looking for a game that challenges your strategic thinking and offers high replayability, **Gentes** is definitely worth considering. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those who prefer quicker, more straightforward gameplay experiences.

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