Notre Dame (2007) Board Game

Notre Dame is a board game designed by Stefan Feld and released in in 2007. It is set in Renaissance-era Paris, where players take on the roles of influential citizens vying for power and influence in the city. The game is published by alea and is known for its strategic gameplay and engaging mechanics.

Game Components of Notre Dame

Game board

Player boards

Influence markers

Action cards

Cubes representing resources

Score markers

Rat markers

How To Setup Notre Dame

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Each player chooses a color and takes the corresponding player board, influence markers, and cubes.

Shuffle the action cards and place them face down on the board.

Place the rat markers on the board in their designated spots.

Determine the starting player and begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Notre Dame, players take turns selecting actions to gain influence and resources, while also managing the threat of rats in their neighborhoods. The game uses area majority/influence, closed drafting, and point-to-point movement mechanics. The objective is to score the most points by the end of the game through strategic planning and efficient resource management.

Player Experience

Pros:

Engaging strategic gameplay

Well-balanced mechanics

Thematic immersion in Renaissance Paris

Cons:

Can be overwhelming for new players

Some luck involved in card drawing

Personal Thoughts on Notre Dame

Notre Dame is a well-crafted game that offers a deep and engaging experience for players looking for a challenging strategy game. The build quality of the components is excellent, and the thematic elements add to the immersive gameplay. While the game may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its complexity, it is a rewarding experience for those who enjoy strategic decision-making and resource management.

In terms of pricing and availability, Notre Dame can be found in both new and used condition, with prices varying depending on the edition and condition of the game. For players interested in similar games, alternatives like Marco Polo or Castles of Burgundy offer similar mechanics and depth of gameplay. Overall, Notre Dame is worth the time investment for players who appreciate a well-designed strategy game set in the Renaissance era. Players who enjoy Euro-style games with a focus on resource management and area control will find Notre Dame to be a rewarding addition to their collection.

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