Cartagena

What to Expect

In Cartagena, players lead a group of pirates escaping through an underground tunnel by playing cards matching symbols on the board. Moving forward requires playing cards, while moving backward allows drawing new cards. The modular board and a combination of action points and hand management create tactical depth and exciting decisions as you race to be the first to get all pirates to the ship.

Who Is This Game For?

Cartagena is suitable for hobby gamers who enjoy tactical race games of moderate complexity. With a playtime around 45 minutes, it fits well for those who prefer shorter sessions but still want strategic planning. Prior experience with hand management and modular boards is helpful but not mandatory.

How It Works

Each turn, you have 1 to 3 actions to move your pirates forward or backward on the modular board. Forward moves require playing cards that match symbols where pirates can jump ahead (hand management). Moving backward allows you to draw cards (action points). Pirates leapfrog over occupied matching spaces (track movement). The goal is to get all your pirates to the end of the track and onto the escape ship first.

What Makes It Special

Designed by Leo Colovini, Cartagena (2017) combines classic race mechanics with hand management and modular boards. It includes base game elements and Cartagena 2 variants, offering multiple gameplay options. The historical pirate jailbreak theme from 1672 adds immersive context. The mix of action points, hand management, and modular boards makes it unique.

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in 1672, Cartagena depicts the pirate-led jailbreak from the fortress in Colombia. The theme focuses on the dramatic escape through underground passages to freedom.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Plan your moves ahead and use backward movement to draw cards and maintain flexibility.

Häufige Fragen

Fazit

Cartagena is a quick, tactical pirate-themed race game for 2 to 5 players. It is recommended for players looking for simple rules with strategic depth.