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Rome in a Day (2023) Board Game

ByMichail

Rome in a Day’ is a board game that was released in 2023 by Red Cat Games. Designed by Evgeny Petrov and illustrated by Irina Pechenkina, this game falls under the category of Medieval Territory Building. With a runtime of 15-20 minutes, ‘Rome in a Day’ is designed for 2-5 players aged 8 and above.

Game Components of Rome in a Day

  • Hex tiles representing various lands (vineyards, quarries, fields of grain, olive groves, etc.)
  • Laser-cut structures (wine presses, windmills, olive presses, stoneworks, etc.)
  • Gems for additional scoring
  • Player screens for dividing tiles
  • Cards for determining tile selection

    How To Setup Rome in a Day

    To set up the game, each player draws five hex tiles, two of which are predetermined to contain buildings. Players then split these tiles into two groups behind their screens. The smaller group receives a gem as a bonus. This setup is repeated over four rounds.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

    Mechanics

  • Tile Drawing and Splitting: Players draw tiles and split them into two groups.
  • Tile Selection: Players choose which group of tiles to add to their map based on cards played.
  • Tile Laying: Players place tiles and structures to maximize scoring.
  • Observation and Speculation: Players observe neighbors’ moves to strategize and deny them resources.

    Game Objective

  • Maximize points by aligning lands with the appropriate structures (e.g., vineyards with wine presses).
  • Use gems to gain extra points.

    Player Experience

    In Rome in a Day, players engage in a strategic game of division and choice. The game starts simply but evolves into a complex web of observation and speculation as players try to outmaneuver their neighbors. The short duration makes it a filler game, but the depth in strategy and the social interaction add a layer of complexity that keeps players engaged.

    Pros

  • Quick Playtime: Games last only 15-20 minutes.
  • Strategic Depth: Despite its simplicity, the game requires strategic thinking and observation.
  • Social Interaction: Players must pay attention to their neighbors’ moves to strategize effectively.
  • Easy to Learn: Simple setup and rules make it accessible to new players.

    Cons

  • Limited Complexity in Tile Laying: The tile-laying mechanism is straightforward and lacks additional challenges like obstacles or connectors.
  • Repetitive: The gameplay, while engaging, can feel repetitive over multiple sessions.
  • Luck Element: The initial distribution of tiles and buildings can significantly influence the game’s outcome.

    Personal Thoughts on Rome in a Day

    Rome in a Day is ideal for players looking for a quick, strategic game that doesn’t require a massive time commitment. It’s perfect for families or casual gamers who enjoy tile-laying and territorial building games. The game’s short duration and easy-to-learn mechanics make it a great filler game, but its depth in strategy ensures it remains engaging even for more experienced players. However, those seeking complex tile-laying mechanics or longer gameplay sessions might find it lacking.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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