Catan Scenarios: Oil Springs
Catan Scenarios: Oil Springs at your next game night?
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- Designer Erik Assadourian , Ty Hansen , Klaus Teuber
- Publisher Catan GmbH , Galakta , KOSMOS , Mayfair Games
- Illustration Erik Assadourian , Ty Hansen
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In this scenario, settlers discover oil on Catan, a resource that offers both opportunities and risks. Oil increases resource yields and speeds settlement growth, but players must manage environmental damage to avoid global climate catastrophe, which can cause all players to lose. This scenario adds economic challenges and environmental consequences to the classic Catan experience.
Who Is This Game For?
This scenario targets experienced Catan players aged 12 and up who own the base game and optionally the 5-6 player extension. With about 60 minutes playtime, it's suited for those interested in environmental and negotiation themes and who appreciate mechanics like hand management and network building. Beginners should first learn the base game.
How It Works
Building on the modular base game, Oil Springs uses mechanics such as dice rolling, hand management, and trading. Players build settlements and routes on a modular board, use oil to advance faster, but must balance its environmental impact. The game involves negotiation and adapting to changing conditions.
What Makes It Special
Developed in 2011 by Klaus Teuber along with Erik Assadourian and Ty Hansen from the Worldwatch Institute, this scenario is part of the Catan Scenarios series. It uniquely integrates ecological and economic challenges into the Catan universe, though it has no official awards.
Pro
- Integrates environmental and economic themes into Catan
- Uses hand management and trading mechanics
- Modular board adds variability
- Supports up to 6 players
Contra
- Requires base game and possibly expansion
- More complex than classic Catan, not for beginners
- No solo mode available
Setting & atmosphere
Set on the island of Catan, players discover oil for the first time. The theme revolves around environmental impact and economic opportunities within the familiar Catan world.
Tips for beginners
Get comfortable with the base Catan game before trying Oil Springs to better understand the added mechanics.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, Oil Springs is designed for 3 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Playtime is around 60 minutes but can vary with player count and experience.
What prior experience do I need?
You should know the base Catan game and ideally be familiar with expansions, as this scenario uses more complex mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely blends environmental issues and the pressure of climate consequences within the Catan series.
Is this suitable for families?
Recommended for ages 12 and up, it suits more experienced players rather than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of dice rolling, hand management, and trading on a modular board creates dynamic gameplay.
Fazit
Oil Springs is a worthwhile addition for Catan fans looking to expand gameplay with environmental and trade complexity. It requires the base game and ideally the 5-6 player extension.
Catan Scenarios: Oil Springs at your next game night?
Add Catan Scenarios: Oil Springs to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Catan Scenarios: Oil Springs to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
