Livingstone (2009) Board Game

Livingstone is a board game released in 2009, designed by Michael Menzel and Christof Tisch. It falls under the categories of Adventure, Dice, and Exploration, with gameplay revolving around area majority and dice rolling mechanics. With a runtime of 35 minutes and suitable for players aged 8 and above, Livingstone offers an engaging and fast-paced gaming experience for 2 to 5 players.

Game Components of Livingstone

Gameboard

60 Stones

55 Tents

75 Coins

27 Action Cards

6 Reference Cards

10 Dice

5 Treasure Chests

5 Scoring Markers

A Steamboat

A Bag

How To Setup Livingstone

To set up the game, players first place the gameboard in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a set of stones, tents, and coins. The action cards are shuffled and dealt out, with each player receiving a certain number. The reference cards are placed within reach of all players. The dice, treasure chests, and scoring markers are also distributed accordingly. The steamboat is placed on the board as indicated by the setup instructions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Adventure, Exploration

Mechanics: Area Control, Dice Rolling, Hand Management

Objective: Players aim to explore the African wilderness, set up camps, and collect valuable resources while managing their resources and navigating challenges presented by the game environment.

Player Experience

In **Livingstone**, players embark on an adventure through the African continent, mimicking the exploratory journeys of David Livingstone. The game combines strategic planning with a touch of luck, as dice rolls and action cards can significantly influence the outcome. Players need to balance their resource management with the need to explore and establish camps, making it a engaging and challenging experience.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The game’s theme of exploration and adventure is well-executed and immersive.

Strategic Depth: Players must manage resources, navigate risks, and make strategic decisions.

Replayability: The combination of dice rolls and action cards ensures each game is unique.

Cons

Complexity: The game has several components and mechanics, which can make it daunting for new players.

Luck Factor: Dice rolls can introduce a significant element of luck, which may not appeal to all players.

Personal Thoughts on Livingstone

**Livingstone** is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a strong thematic element. It is particularly suited for those interested in exploration and adventure, and who appreciate a mix of strategy and luck. However, due to its complexity and numerous components, it may not be the best choice for casual or new board game players.

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