Sprawlopolis (2018) Board Game

Sprawlopolis is a compact city-building card game that was released in 2018 by Button Shy. Designed by Steven Aramini, Danny Devine, and Paul Kluka, this game has gained popularity for its unique gameplay and portable size. The game focuses on players working together to build the best city while overcoming various challenges and obstacles.

Game Components of Sprawlopolis

18 cards

Variable scoring system

Optional expansions (Wrecktar, Construction Zones, Points of Interest, Beaches, Interstate, Roadwork)

How To Setup Sprawlopolis

To set up Sprawlopolis, players start with a hand of cards and a blank cityscape. Each player receives a set of cards, and the game begins with the first player placing a card to initiate the city’s growth. The variable scoring system is determined at the start of each game, ensuring a unique setup each time.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Game: Players work together to build the city.

Layering: Cards are layered to create the city’s layout.

Solo / Solitaire Game: Can be played solo with adjusted rules.

Tile Placement: Each turn, players place one card from their hand to build the city.

Objective: Score as many points as possible by developing large areas in each of the 4 zone types while managing road maintenance penalties. The game ends when all cards are placed, and players must meet a dynamically generated minimum score.

Player Experience

In Sprawlopolis, players take on the roles of urban planners tasked with transforming a small town into a thriving city. The game requires strategic communication and planning without revealing individual cards, making each game uniquely challenging. With its short playtime of 15-20 minutes and simple yet engaging mechanics, Sprawlopolis appeals to a wide range of players.

Pros

High Replayability: Each game is different due to the variable scoring system.

Simple to Learn: Easy to understand rules and quick setup.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and communication.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 8+.

Portable: Compact game with only 18 cards.

Cons

Limited Components: Some players might find the 18-card deck too small.

Road Maintenance Penalties: Managing road costs can be challenging and may reduce scores significantly.

Dependence on Teamwork: Success relies heavily on effective team communication, which can be frustrating if coordination is poor.

Personal Thoughts on Sprawlopolis

Sprawlopolis is ideal for those who enjoy cooperative games, city-building themes, and strategic gameplay. It’s a great option for families or casual gamers looking for a quick, engaging experience. The game’s ability to offer a different challenge each time makes it appealing to players seeking variety and replayability. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer complex, long-duration games or those who struggle with cooperative gameplay mechanics.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.