Splendor Duel (2022) Board Game

Splendor Duel is a two-player version of the popular board game Splendor, designed by Marc André and Bruno Cathala. Released in 2022 by Space Cowboys, this card game is set in the Renaissance period, where players take on the roles of wealthy merchants seeking to build their gemstone empires.

Game Components of Splendor Duel

1 Rulebook

67 Jewel cards

1 Victory Tile

1 Bag

3 Privilege Scrolls

25 Gem Tokens

1 Board

4 Royal Cards

Gem, Gold, and rare Pearl tokens

How To Setup Splendor Duel

To set up Splendor Duel, players begin by placing the 5×5 grid board in the middle of the playing area. The Gem, Gold, and Pearl tokens are distributed across this grid. Each player starts with no tokens or cards. The Jewel cards, Privilege Scrolls, and Royal Cards are shuffled and placed within reach of both players. The game is ready to start once the initial tokens are set on the board and the cards are drawn.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics: Card Drafting, Contracts, Race, Set Collection

Game Category: Economic, Renaissance

Objective: The game is a race to achieve one of three victory conditions:
– 20 total points
– 10 points of one color
– 10 Crowns

Gameplay:
– Players take turns drafting up to 3 Gem, Gold, or Pearl tokens in a consecutive line from the 5×5 grid.
– Tokens can be used to buy Jewel cards, which provide points and special abilities.
– Players can reserve cards for future purchase or use Privilege Scrolls to gain advantages.
– New tokens fill the gaps in the grid, changing the available options each turn.

Player Experience

Splendor Duel offers a compact and intense two-player experience, ideal for those who enjoy strategic depth in a short playtime of about 30 minutes. The game requires careful planning and tactical decisions, as players must manage their token collection and card purchases to block their opponent’s moves or accelerate their own progress. The addition of Pearl tokens and special Privilege Scrolls adds a new layer of strategy compared to the original Splendor.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Offers deeper strategic options compared to the original Splendor.

Compact Design: Easy to carry and play, making it a great filler game.

High-Quality Components: Gem tokens have a significant heft, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Quick Playtime: Games typically last around 30 minutes.

Engaging Mechanics: The drafting system and use of Privilege Scrolls keep the game engaging and tense.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed exclusively for two players.

Dependence on Opponent Skill Level: The game’s enjoyment can be heightened or diminished based on the skill level of the opponent.

Pearl Tokens: Some players find the Pearl tokens overly powerful, though they can also be replaced by Gold tokens in certain situations.

Personal Thoughts on Splendor Duel

Splendor Duel is an excellent addition to any board game collection, particularly for those who enjoy two-player games. It is ideal for fans of the original Splendor who are looking for a more streamlined and strategic experience. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking games that support more than two players. The game’s components, mechanics, and short playtime make it a great choice for casual game nights or as a filler game between longer sessions.

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