Puerto Diablo is a card game that was released in 2015, designed by Sander ten Napel. The game is set in a pirate-themed world where players take on the roles of notorious pirates competing to amass the most treasure and become the most feared pirate on the high seas.
Game Components of Puerto Diablo
Ship and Crew: Each player has a ship and crew members.Ports: Four ports to visit, including Puerto Diablo, La Corona de l’Occidental, and several optional ports like Jamaica, Port Royal, Freebooter Island, Tortuga, Goathead Bay, and New Amsterdam.Skill Cards: Players receive two Skill Cards at the beginning and can acquire more during the game.Character Cards: Used to recruit new crew members.Tall Tale Cards: Earn Victory Points and provide narrative elements.Dice: Used to determine the success of skill applications.Market Characters: Provide symbols to help in challenges, especially in games with fewer than four players.
How To Setup Puerto Diablo
To set up the game, players start in the port of Puerto Diablo with two crew members. Each player receives two Skill Cards. The game box contains various cards that need to be organized into draw piles and markets. This initial setup can be cumbersome due to the lack of clear organization in the game box.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Deck-building: Players buy Skill Cards, Character Cards, and Tall Tale Cards to enhance their crew and abilities.Semi-cooperative Gameplay: Players work together on missions but also compete in various aspects.Dice Rolling: Determines the success of skill applications.Skill Card Management: Players use Skill Cards to help themselves or hinder opponents.Mission Completion: Players collaborate to complete missions but can also annoy each other.Victory Points: Earned through Tall Tale Cards, successful missions, and other achievements.Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most Victory Points by navigating the ports, completing missions, and managing resources effectively.
Player Experience
In **Puerto Diablo**, players embark on an adventurous journey through the 17th century East Indies. The game is not entry-level friendly due to its complex setup and rulebook. Players need to navigate through four ports, manage their crew, and use skills strategically. The game has a strong narrative element, with Tall Tale Cards providing fun stories to share. However, the lack of clear rules and organized card storage can be frustrating.
Pros
Immersive Narrative: The game includes engaging stories and characters.Strategic Depth: Combines deck-building, skill management, and cooperative elements.Replayability: Multiple ports and card combinations offer varied gameplay experiences.Interactive Social Aspect: Players need to work together and interact socially to succeed.
Cons
Complex Setup: The initial organization of cards can be time-consuming and confusing.Unclear Rulebook: The rules are not very clear, which can lead to confusion and disputes.Expensive Storage: The game box lacks an insert, making card storage inconvenient.
Personal Thoughts on Puerto Diablo
**Puerto Diablo** is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy complexity and strategic depth. It is not suited for beginners due to its intricate setup and rules. The game offers a unique blend of adventure, economic management, and social interaction, making it appealing to those who enjoy immersive and challenging gameplay. However, the game’s complexity and storage issues might deter some players.
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