Lignum (Second Edition) (2017) Board Game

Lignum, originally released in 2015, was designed by Christoph Clasen and has gained popularity for its strategic gameplay focusing on the lumber industry. The second edition, released in 2017, further refines the game mechanics and components, providing an enhanced gaming experience for players.

Game Components of Lignum

Game board

Player boards

Worker tokens

Tool tokens

Wood tokens

Contract worker cards

Equipment cards

Special building tiles (from the “Joinery & Buildings” expansion)

Joiner tokens (from the “Joinery & Buildings” expansion)

Food and firewood tokens

How To Setup Lignum

To set up Lignum, players start by placing the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a player board and places their starting worker tokens and tool tokens on it. The contract worker cards, equipment cards, and special building tiles (if using the expansion) are shuffled and placed within reach. Each player is given a starting amount of resources and food. The wood tokens are placed in the forest area on the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Worker placement

Resource management

Supply chain optimization

Strategic planning

Expansion integration (with “Joinery & Buildings”)

Game Objective

Run the most profitable lumber mill by efficiently managing resources, workers, and equipment.

Secure the best cutting areas in the forest.

Optimize the transportation and processing of wood.

Acquire and utilize special buildings and joiners for extra income.

Ensure sufficient storage of food and firewood for winter.

Player Experience

Lignum offers a deeply strategic gameplay experience that rewards long-term planning while allowing for tactical decisions along the way. Players must balance resource gathering, worker management, and equipment upgrades to stay ahead of their competitors. The addition of the “Joinery & Buildings” expansion introduces new strategies with special buildings and joiners, adding depth to the game.

Pros

Deep Strategic Depth: Encourages long-term planning and tactical decisions.

High Replayability: Multiple paths to victory and variable setup.

Economic and Industrial Theme: Immersive and thematic gameplay.

Expansion Integration: Adds new mechanics and strategies.

Cons

Long Play Time: 90-120 minutes, which may be daunting for some players.

Complex Rules: Steeper learning curve due to complex mechanics.

Limited Player Count: Designed for 2-4 players, limiting large group play.

Personal Thoughts on Lignum

Lignum is ideal for players who enjoy strategic optimization and economic management games. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate games with a strong thematic focus and are willing to invest time in learning and playing. While it may not be the best choice for casual or quick game sessions, it offers a rich and engaging experience for dedicated board game enthusiasts.

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