Cartagena
- Designer Leo Colovini
- Publisher Venice Connection , Corfix , Devir , Giochi Uniti , Hobby World
- Illustration Volkan Baga , Christoph Clasen , Didier Guiserix , Martin Hoffmann , Tomasz Larek , Nora Nowatzyk
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Cartagena, players control a group of six pirates trying to escape through an underground tunnel. Movement depends on playing matching cards, while gaining cards requires moving pirates backward. Each turn offers 1 to 3 actions, demanding careful planning to avoid getting stuck. The goal is to be the first to get all pirates to the awaiting sloop.
Who Is This Game For?
This is a family-friendly game suitable for players aged 8 and up. With simple rules and a 45-minute playtime, it's ideal for casual gamers and families looking for a light strategy game involving card and action management.
How It Works
Players move pirates forward by playing cards with matching symbols to advance to the next corresponding space. To draw more cards, they must move a pirate backward to a space occupied by one or two pirates. Each turn, players perform 1 to 3 actions, mixing forward and backward moves. The modular board and Catch the Leader mechanic add dynamic strategic choices.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Leo Colovini, Cartagena won the 2002 Nederlandse Spellenprijs and was recommended for Spiel des Jahres 2001. It uniquely blends Race, Hand Management, and Action Points in a pirate theme and is part of the Cartagena family with digital versions available.
Awards
2001
- 2002 Niederländischer Spielepreis — Winner
Pro
- Easy to learn with clear rules
- About 45 minutes playtime suits family game nights
- Combines Race, Hand Management, and Action Points
- Winner of the 2002 Nederlandse Spellenprijs
Contra
- Supports only 2 to 5 players
- No solo mode available
- May feel light and predictable for expert gamers
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set during the 1672 pirate-led jailbreak from the fortress of Cartagena. Players guide their pirates through a secret tunnel to escape to a waiting ship at the harbor.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Plan your moves ahead and avoid running out of matching cards to keep your pirates moving.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Cartagena requires at least two players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 45 minutes, making it suitable for short to medium-length sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The rules are simple, making it accessible to families and casual gamers without prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Cartagena uniquely combines Race with Hand Management and Action Points in a pirate setting, setting it apart from many other race games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, Cartagena is suitable for children aged 8 and up and is family-friendly due to its straightforward rules.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Hand Management, Catch the Leader, and Action Points adds tactical depth to pirate movement.
Fazit
Cartagena offers an accessible, tactical racing experience for families and casual players. It's recommended for those who enjoy light strategy games combining card management and movement.
