Age of Empires III: The Age of Discovery
- Designer Glenn Drover
- Publisher Tropical Games , ADC Blackfire Entertainment , Edge Entertainment , Idea Edizioni , Mass Games
- Illustration Paul Niemeyer , Jacoby O'Connor , James Provenzale
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take on the role of colonial powers during the Age of Exploration. Over three ages, you launch expeditions, colonize regions, expand your merchant fleet, and build capital buildings that grant advantages. The game blends influence through Area Majority, strategic resource management, and conflict in a historical Renaissance setting.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced gamers looking for an extended 120-minute strategy session. It's not a family game but a heavier gamer title requiring patience and strategic thinking, especially with Worker Placement and Set Collection elements.
How It Works
Age of Empires III uses Worker Placement with different worker types to claim actions and control areas (Area Majority). Players collect sets of cards and resources through Set Collection. Turn order is determined by Claim Action, allowing strategic planning. You develop your colony’s economy and military in competition with others.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Glenn Drover, the game won the 2007 Origins Awards Historical Board Game of the Year. It uniquely combines Worker Placement, Area Majority, and Set Collection in a historical exploration theme. The setting includes multiple nations and continents, adding variety. It's part of families like Continents: North America and Country: England.
Awards
2007, 2008
2007
- 2007 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
- 2007 Origins Awards Historical Board Game of the Year — Winner
Pro
- Deep blend of Worker Placement and Area Majority mechanics
- Historical theme combining economic and military strategy
- Extended playtime for immersive sessions
- 2007 Origins Awards Historical Board Game of the Year
Contra
- Long playtime requires patience
- High complexity for beginners
- No solo mode, minimum 2 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the Renaissance and Age of Discovery, players assume roles of historical nations such as England, France, and Portugal, colonizing North and South America.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the Worker Placement and Set Collection mechanics before attempting complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, the game is designed for 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game takes about 120 minutes, with setup time included.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced gamers familiar with Worker Placement and strategic economic games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its unique combination of Worker Placement, Area Majority, and Set Collection in a historical setting sets it apart.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Turn Order: Claim Action mechanic combined with Worker Placement and Area Majority creates strategic depth.
Fazit
Age of Empires III: The Age of Discovery is recommended for players who enjoy complex historical strategy games with Worker Placement and influence mechanics and are comfortable with long playtimes.
