| | | | | |

The Quacks of Quedlinburg (2018) Board Game

ByMichail

The Quacks of Quedlinburg is a board game designed by Wolfgang Warsch and released in 2018 by Schmidt Spiele. The game has gained popularity for its unique combination of deck-building and push-your-luck mechanics set in a medieval theme.

Game Components of The Quacks of Quedlinburg

  • Main game board with a scoring track
  • Individual “pot” player boards with a spiral potion track
  • Cloth bags for each player
  • Colored tokens (white, blue, green, purple, red, and yellow) with point values from 1 to 4
  • White “cherry bomb” tokens that can cause the potion to explode
  • Fortune Teller cards
  • Rubies used for purchasing ingredients
  • A wooden cherry stone dispenser.

    How To Setup The Quacks of Quedlinburg

    Setup involves each player receiving a cloth bag, a “pot” player board, and an initial set of colored tokens, including white “cherry bomb” tokens. The main game board is placed in the center, and the Fortune Teller cards are shuffled and prepared. Each player starts with a set amount of tokens in their bag, and the game is ready to begin after a brief explanation of the rules.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Mechanics:**
    – Bag-building: Players draw tokens from their bags and add them to their potion track.
    – Press-your-luck: Players must decide when to stop drawing tokens to avoid their potion exploding.
    – Catch the Leader: Players aim to catch up with or surpass their opponents in points.
    – Delayed Purchase: Players can buy new ingredients using rubies earned during the game.

  • Game Objective:**
    – The goal is to accumulate the most victory points by successfully brewing potions over nine rounds without letting the potion explode. Victory points are awarded based on the distance along the potion track and any rubies earned.

    Player Experience

    In The Quacks of Quedlinburg, players take on the roles of quack doctors competing to brew the most successful potions. The game is known for its high replayability and simple yet addictive gameplay. Players must balance strategy and luck, as the draw of tokens can quickly turn from successful to disastrous. The game benefits from having multiple players, as the competitive element and the possibility of others’ potions exploding add to the fun and tension.

    Pros

  • High Replayability:** Each game offers different sequences of tokens, ensuring varied gameplay experiences.
  • Simple Rules:** Easy to learn, making it accessible to a wide range of players.
  • Addictive Gameplay:** The combination of luck and strategy keeps players engaged.
  • Beautiful Artwork:** High-quality components and beautiful artwork enhance the game experience.
  • Social Interaction:** Encourages player interaction and competitive banter.

    Cons

  • Luck-Dependent:** The game’s outcome is heavily influenced by luck, which can be frustrating for some players.
  • Potential for Frustration:** Frequent potion explosions can be annoying, especially for those who prefer more strategic games.
  • Not for Heavy Strategists:** Players seeking deep, complex strategies might find this game too light.

    Personal Thoughts on The Quacks of Quedlinburg

    The Quacks of Quedlinburg is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of luck and strategy and are looking for a game that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s perfect for casual gamers and families, as it offers a fun, light-hearted experience with a unique twist. However, players who prefer more complex, strategic games or those who get frustrated with luck-based elements might find this game less appealing. Overall, it’s a great addition to any board game collection for those who enjoy a bit of risk and unpredictability.

    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. 

    • 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

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *