Aladdin's Dragons
- Designer Richard Breese
- Publisher Hans im Glück , 999 Games , Rio Grande Games
- Illustration Doris Matthäus
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Aladdin's Dragons, players place numbered bidding chips face-down to collect treasures, cast spells, and acquire artifacts. The game mixes auction, bluffing, and set collection elements. Managing resources and blocking opponents' actions are key to winning by gathering the most artifacts. The game offers strategic depth and player interaction within an Arabian fantasy theme.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for gamers aged 10 and up, Aladdin's Dragons suits 3 to 5 players who enjoy medium-complexity strategy games. With about 90 minutes playtime, it appeals to those familiar with auction and bluffing mechanics seeking tactical gameplay.
How It Works
The core mechanics include Auction / Bidding, Betting and Bluffing, and Worker Placement. Players secretly place bidding chips on different board areas to gain treasures, perform special actions, or buy artifacts. Once all bids are placed, areas resolve determining who earns treasures and artifacts. Players can also trade resources and block others’ actions to gain advantage.
What Makes It Special
Richard Breese reimplemented his 1998 game Keydom as Aladdin's Dragons in 2000. It won the 2001 Games Magazine Game of the Year and was nominated for the 2000 Meeples Choice Award. The blend of multiple auction lots, bluffing, and worker placement in an Arabian fantasy setting distinguishes it among strategy board games.
Awards
2003
2001
- 2001 Games Magazine Game of the Year — Winner
- 2000 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Unique blend of auction, bluffing, and worker placement mechanics
- Strategic depth through set collection and resource management
- Thematically consistent Arabian fantasy setting
- Winner of Games Magazine Game of the Year 2001
Contra
- Requires minimum 3 players, no solo mode
- Around 90 minutes playtime demands patience
- Complexity favors experienced gamers
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in a medieval Middle Eastern fantasy world inspired by Arabian folktales like Aladdin, the game features magical artifacts, dragons, and treasure hunting in an oriental atmosphere.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding the bidding mechanics and plan your moves to secure both treasures and artifacts.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Aladdin's Dragons is designed for 3 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, fitting a medium-length gaming session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced players familiar with auction and bluffing mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines multiple-lot auctions, bluffing, and worker placement in an Arabian fantasy theme.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and duration, it is better suited for experienced players aged 10 and above rather than younger families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Auction / Bidding, Betting and Bluffing, plus Worker Placement defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Aladdin's Dragons is recommended for players who enjoy strategic auctions and bluffing in a thematic fantasy world. Its complexity and playtime make it less suitable for casual gamers.
