Ora et Labora (2011) Board Game

Ora et Labora, which translates to “Pray and Work” in Latin, is a board game designed by Uwe Rosenberg and released in in 2011. The game is set in medieval Europe, where players take on the roles of medieval monks building and expanding their monasteries while producing goods and trading with neighboring communities.

Game Components of Ora et Labora

2 game boards

2 resource wheels

110 cards

450 tiles

22 landscape boards

22 wooden resources

4 game overviews

1 score pad

1 rule book

Personal game boards for each player

Workers and clergymen tokens

How To Setup Ora et Labora

To set up Ora et Labora, each player starts with their own personal game board, representing their monastery. The game includes two main scenarios: France and Ireland, each with its unique terrain and building restrictions. Players begin by placing their workers and clergymen, and setting up the resource wheel, which is central to the game’s mechanics. The terrain boards and resource tiles are also placed according to the chosen scenario. For a detailed setup, refer to the rule book or the game’s official instructions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Resource Management: Players manage resources using a numbered rondel that adjusts the availability of resources each round.

Worker Placement: Players use three workers to take actions on their own or other players’ buildings.

Building Construction: Players construct buildings on their personal boards, which provide various actions and resources.

Terrain Management: Players can clear land and purchase additional terrain to expand their monastery.

Game Objective

The objective is to build a working infrastructure, manufacture prestigious items (such as books, ceramics, ornaments, and relics), and gain the most victory points by the end of the game.

Player Experience

Ora et Labora offers a deep and engaging experience, particularly appealing to fans of Euro games and Uwe Rosenberg’s designs. The game is known for its dynamic resource production and the need for strategic planning. Players must balance resource gathering, building construction, and the efficient use of their workers to maximize their points. The game supports solo play and offers a short game variant, making it versatile for different player preferences.

Pros

High Replayability: The game features endless possibilities with no two games playing out the same.

Deep Strategy: Engages players with intense strategic battles and resource management.

Dynamic Gameplay: The resource wheel ensures each round presents new opportunities and challenges.

Premium Components: Top-notch components and sophisticated design elements.

Versatile Play: Supports 1-4 players and includes solo and short game variants.

Cons

Complexity: The game has a steep learning curve due to its intricate mechanics.

Long Playtime: Games can last between 60-180 minutes.

Initial Investment: The game requires a significant amount of time to set up and learn.

Personal Thoughts on Ora et Labora

Ora et Labora is a must-have for lovers of Euro games and fans of Uwe Rosenberg’s work. It is ideal for players who enjoy deep strategic games with a high level of complexity and replayability. While it may not be suitable for casual or new players due to its complexity, it offers a rich and rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time to learn and master its mechanics.

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