Catan Histories: Merchants of Europe
- Designer Klaus Teuber
- Publisher KOSMOS , 999 Games , Albi , Devir , Enigma (Bergsala Enigma)
- Illustration Michael Menzel , Pedro Soto
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Set in late medieval Europe, you play as a powerful merchant establishing trading posts in key cities. You recruit merchants, open trade routes, and transport valuable goods like salt and spices. Dice Rolling generates resources you use to expand your trade network. The blend of trading, route building, and resource management creates a dynamic economic experience with player interaction through negotiation and competition.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced hobby gamers aged 12 and up who enjoy complex strategy games with a longer playtime. Sessions last about 120 minutes and require tactical thinking and patience. Prior experience with Catan or similar trading and network-building games is beneficial due to the game's strategic depth.
How It Works
Players start with three trading posts on a European map. Through Dice Rolling, you gain resources to build trade networks and equip caravans. Network and Route Building lets you open new trade routes between cities. Trading enables you to sell and exchange goods. The first player to deliver all their goods to foreign cities wins.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Klaus Teuber, this game combines classic Catan mechanics with a historical European setting. It was nominated for the Årets Spel Best Adult Game in 2012. As part of the Catan Histories series, it offers a unique blend of trade and route-building distinct from the original Settlers of Catan.
Awards
- 2012 Årets Spel Best Adult Game — Nominated
Pro
- Historical European trade theme
- Combination of Dice Rolling, Network and Route Building, and Trading
- Part of the well-known Catan Histories series
- Nominated for Årets Spel Best Adult Game 2012
Contra
- Only for 3 to 4 players
- Long playtime around 120 minutes
- Age 12+, not suitable for younger children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in late medieval Europe, a time of flourishing trade and economic leagues like the Hanseatic League. The map shows a 'Catanified' Europe featuring cities in Germany, Italy, Flanders, and other trade hubs.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on building a stable trade network and use your resources efficiently to deliver goods.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, the game is designed for 3 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 120 minutes, depending on player count and experience.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced hobby gamers aged 12 and up, ideally familiar with strategy and trading games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Compared to classic Catan, this game emphasizes trade, dice rolling, and route building in a historical European setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is better suited for older children and hobby gamers rather than families with young kids.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Dice Rolling, Network and Route Building, and Trading defines its unique gameplay.
Fazit
Catan Histories: Merchants of Europe is recommended for players who enjoy complex trading strategies and network building. Especially suitable for fans of the Catan series seeking a historical European twist.
