Chinatown
- Designer Karsten Hartwig
- Publisher alea , Ravensburger AG , Competo / Marektoy , Filosofia Éditions , Heidelberger Spieleverlag
- Illustration Mathieu Leyssenne , Franz Vohwinkel
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Chinatown, players negotiate ownership of city blocks and place business tiles to form profitable enterprises. Each tile generates income each round, but connected businesses of multiple tiles yield higher payouts. Since resources are distributed randomly, players must trade strategically to assemble matching businesses and adjacent locations, fostering intense player interaction and tactical decision-making.
Who Is This Game For?
Chinatown targets experienced gamers aged 12 and up who enjoy negotiation and economic mechanics. With a typical playtime of around 60 minutes, it suits those who prefer moderate-length games with strategic depth. Some prior experience in negotiation games is helpful but not mandatory.
How It Works
Players negotiate (Negotiation) to acquire ownership of city block sections and place business tiles (Tile Placement). At the end of each round, income (Income) is paid based on placed tiles. The goal is to invest (Investment) wisely and form connected businesses via the enclosure mechanic (Enclosure) to maximize payout. Trading with other players is essential to align your tiles and boost profits.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Karsten Hartwig, Chinatown is part of the Alea Big Box series. It was nominated for the Meeples Choice Award 1999 and recommended for Spiel des Jahres 1999. Its unique blend of negotiation and city-building sets it apart from typical economic or tile placement games.
Awards
2000
1999
- 2008 Årets Spill Best Family Game — Nominated
- 1999 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Intense negotiation mechanic promotes player interaction
- Combination of tile placement and economic mechanics
- Moderate playtime of about 60 minutes
- Part of the well-known Alea Big Box series
Contra
- Requires at least 3 players, no solo mode
- Complexity may be high for families with younger children
- Negotiation games require patience and communication skills
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in an urban environment where players acquire city blocks and establish businesses. It focuses on an economic city-building theme without a specific historical or fictional era.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on negotiation and observe tile placements closely to identify profitable business opportunities.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Chinatown requires at least 3 players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game typically lasts about 60 minutes but may vary depending on player count and negotiation length.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of negotiation and economic mechanics is helpful; designed for experienced players aged 12 and up.
How does this compare to similar games?
Chinatown uniquely combines negotiation, investment, and tile placement, distinguishing it from pure city-building or set-collection games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age recommendation of 12+, it is better suited for families with older children or experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The negotiation mechanic combined with investment and enclosure makes Chinatown stand out.
Fazit
Chinatown is recommended for players who enjoy tactical negotiation and economic planning. It works best in groups open to interaction and trading. It's less suited for those seeking quick or solo gameplay.
