Nicodemus (2021) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Nicodemus is a board game released in 2021 by designer Bruno Cathala and Florian Sirieix. It is published by Bombyx and falls under the categories of Fantasy and Industry/Manufacturing. The game is designed for 2 players, with a playing time of 45-60 minutes. Players take on the roles of alchemists competing to become the successor of the great wizard Nicodemus.

Game Components of Nicodemus

56 Machine cards

12 Charcoalium (money)

24 Resources

1 Board

17 Project tiles

2 Assistant tokens

2 Wooden tokens

1 First Player token

1 Rulebook.

How To Setup Nicodemus

To set up Nicodemus, players begin by placing the board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects an assistant token and places it on the board. The machine cards are shuffled and dealt to each player, with the remaining cards forming a draw pile. The charcoalium, resources, project tiles, and other tokens are also distributed according to the rules. The first player token is given to the player who will start the game. The setup is straightforward, preparing the stage for a competitive duel between the two assistants vying to replace the retiring Nicodemus Gideon.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Action Points: Players have two actions per turn: playing a machine card to the Bric-a-brac or repairing a machine from the Bric-a-brac.

Hand Management: Managing machine cards to optimize resource production and charcoalium.

Action/Event: Using machine effects to influence gameplay.

Contracts: Completing projects to earn points.

Sudden Death Ending: The game ends when a player reaches 20 or more points.

Game Objective

The objective is to be the first player to score 20 or more points by repairing machines, completing projects, and efficiently managing resources and charcoalium.

Player Experience

Nicodemus offers a highly interactive and competitive experience for two players. The game is set in a steampunk universe where players act as assistants to the retiring Nicodemus Gideon, competing to take over his role. The gameplay involves strategic decisions on which machines to play and repair, with a constant need to block and outmaneuver the opponent. The artwork, though complex and busy, is mesmerizing and adds to the immersive experience. As players familiarize themselves with the game, they discover subtle interactions and chaining effects that enhance the game’s depth and replayability.

Pros

High Interaction: The game is very interactive, with players constantly influencing each other’s moves.

Strategic Depth: The game requires careful hand management and strategic planning.

Immersive Artwork: The steampunk-themed artwork is unique and engaging.

Replayability: The game offers multiple strategies and outcomes, encouraging repeated plays.

Cons

Complex Artwork: The artwork can be overwhelming and disturbing at first glance.

Learning Curve: The game mechanics take a few turns to fully understand.

Limited Player Count: Designed exclusively for two players, limiting group play options.

Personal Thoughts on Nicodemus

Nicodemus is ideal for fans of strategic and competitive two-player games, particularly those who enjoy engine-building and resource management mechanics. The game’s unique blend of steampunk theme and intricate gameplay makes it a standout in its genre. However, it may not be the best choice for players seeking a cooperative or large-group experience. For those willing to invest time in learning the mechanics, Nicodemus offers a rewarding and challenging experience that grows more enjoyable with each play.

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