Citadels
Citadels at your next game night?
Add Citadels to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Bruno Faidutti
- Publisher Windrider Games , 999 Games , Arclight Games , asmodee , CoolPlay
- Illustration Andrew Bosley , Jeff Brown (II) , James Combridge , Amit Dutta , Simon Eckert , Tyler Edlin
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 Citadels, players assume different character roles each round, each with unique abilities to gather gold and construct buildings. You secretly choose characters and use their powers, such as assassinating or stealing from others. The goal is to build seven buildings first and score the most points. The mix of tactical drafting and tableau building creates dynamic, interactive gameplay.
Who Is This Game For?
Citadels suits experienced and family players aged 10 and up who enjoy bluffing and tactical card management. With a playtime around 60 minutes, it fits well into a game night. The rules are accessible but benefit from some experience with drafting and strategic thinking.
How It Works
At the start of each round, players select character cards secretly through closed drafting, with one character removed randomly. Characters take turns performing actions like earning gold, building, or attacking others. Buildings come in various colors granting points and bonuses. Mechanics like Action Drafting, Set Collection, and Take That drive player interaction and strategy.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Bruno Faidutti in 2016, Citadels features unique character abilities blending city building with bluffing. It belongs to the Citadels family and uses tableau building mechanics. The wide variety of characters and flexible actions ensure varied and strategic play.
Awards
2001
- 2000 Fairplay À la carte — Winner
- 2000 Meeples Choice Award — Winner
Pro
- Dynamic role selection via Action Drafting
- High player interaction through Take That mechanics
- Variable gameplay with diverse characters
- Supports 2 to 8 players
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Requires tactical and bluffing skills, not ideal for casual players
- About 60 minutes playtime demands focus
Setting & atmosphere
Set in a medieval city, players take on powerful characters constructing buildings and vying for influence. The historical city-building theme shapes both atmosphere and mechanics.
Tips for beginners
Focus on using character abilities tactically and watch opponents’ actions to disrupt their plans.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, Citadels requires at least two players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 60 minutes, suitable for a game night.
What prior experience do I need?
It is aimed at players familiar with drafting and tactical bluffing.
How does this compare to similar games?
Citadels uniquely combines character abilities with city building and bluffing, unlike pure deck-building or worker-placement games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, for families with children aged 10 and older who enjoy somewhat complex tactical games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Action Drafting, Closed Drafting, and Take That mechanics creates deep interaction and strategy.
Fazit
Citadels is a recommended game for groups who enjoy variable roles and tactical building. Accommodating 2 to 8 players, it lacks a solo mode but offers highly interactive gameplay.
Citadels at your next game night?
Add Citadels to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Citadels to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
