Azul
- Designer Michael Kiesling
- Publisher Next Move Games , Plan B Games , asmodee , Belleville (Бельвіль) , Broadway Toys LTD
- Illustration Philippe Guérin , Chris Quilliams
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You draft colored tiles from shared suppliers and place them on your player board to complete rows and patterns. Points come from completing specific patterns, set collection and grid coverage, while wasted tiles cost you points. The flow of Open Drafting and Pattern Building creates calm, tactical decisions, and End Game Bonuses reward completed areas. The theme is based on Portuguese azulejos and frames the abstract gameplay.
Who Is This Game For?
For players who enjoy medium-weight abstract strategy: Azul sits between family and expert games. Suitable for ages 8+ (min_age 8) and best for 2–4 players. With a playtime of about 45 minutes it fits typical game-night sessions.
How It Works
Core mechanics include Open Drafting, Pattern Building and Set Collection: players take tiles from open supplier displays and place them into rows on their boards. When a row is completed, tiles move into a square grid where their placement relative to others affects scoring (Grid Coverage). Chaining effects and End Game Bonuses reward deliberate pattern construction. Play proceeds in rounds; highest score wins.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Michael Kiesling, Azul won the As d'Or - Jeu de l'Année in 2018 (winner). It also earned Golden Geek Best Family Board Game (winner, 2017) and Cardboard Republic Architect Laurel (winner, 2017). Its blend of abstract tile-placement and pattern scoring defines its USP.
Awards
2018
2018
2018
2017
- 2019 MinD-Spielepreis — Winner
- 2018 As d’Or — Winner
- 2018 Niederländischer Spielepreis: Bestes Familienspiel — Winner
- 2018 Gouden Ludo - best family game — Winner
- 2017 Cardboard Republic Architect Laurel — Winner
- 2017 Board Game Quest Awards Best Game from a Small Publisher — Nominated
Pro
- Clear abstract design with a thematic azulejos setting
- Accessible rules with tactical depth from Pattern Building and Open Drafting
- Comfortable playtime (~45 minutes) for 2–4 players
- Multiple awards (As d'Or 2018, Golden Geek 2017) indicate recognition
Contra
- May be too light for players seeking deep engine-building
- Explanation and downtime can appear in larger groups
Setting & Atmosphäre
The theme revolves around Portuguese azulejos and decorating the palace of Évora, inspired by Moorish tile traditions. The historical motif is atmospheric; the gameplay remains abstract.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on completing rows and straightforward patterns first; prioritize clean placement over opportunistic short-term gains.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No. Azul is designed for 2–4 players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game takes about 45 minutes (duration_minutes = 45); add time for setup and initial explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
Low to moderate: Azul is a medium-weight abstract suitable for players familiar with drafting and pattern mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
Azul combines Open Drafting with Grid Coverage and Pattern Building in a thematic tile-placement package.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes. Minimum age is 8 (min_age = 8) and it won Golden Geek Best Family Board Game (winner, 2017).
What mechanic makes it special?
The interaction of Open Drafting and Pattern Building (with Grid Coverage) defines the game's feel.
Fazit
Azul is a neatly designed abstract tile game, recommended for players and families seeking strategic placement without heavy rules. Expert-focused groups may find the depth limited.
