Cities
- Designer Steve Finn , Phil Walker-Harding
- Publisher Devir , 999 Games , Arclight Games , GaGa Games , Game Harbor
- Illustration Jorge Tabanera Redondo
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Cities, players plan new neighborhoods in major cities like New York, Barcelona, and Rio de Janeiro. Over eight rounds, you draft projects, place tiles including parks and buildings, and fulfill objectives. With Closed and Open Drafting, Set Collection, and Pattern Building mechanics, you design the most impressive district. Points come from achievements and scoring cards at game end.
Who Is This Game For?
Cities is aimed at experienced players aged 14 and up who enjoy abstract strategy and tactical planning. With a playtime around 45 minutes, it fits medium-length game sessions. Some familiarity with drafting and tile placement games is helpful but not mandatory.
How It Works
Each round, players draft cards and tiles using Closed and Open Drafting to build their city tableau. You place tiles representing parks, water, and buildings, stacking building tiles up to four stories using Tile Placement. Completing Contracts grants bonuses and achievements. The game ends after eight rounds (four in two-player) with scoring based on collected cards and achievements.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Steve Finn and Phil Walker-Harding, Cities won the 2025 GEEKS d'OURO Strategy Board Game of the Year. It belongs to the Cities family featuring titles like Cities: Barcelona and Rio de Janeiro, combining multiple drafting and city-building mechanics uniquely.
Awards
2024
- 2025 GEEKS d'OURO Board Game of the Year — Winner
- 2025 GEEKS d'OURO Family/Party Board Game of the Year — Nominated
- 2025 GEEKS d'OURO Strategy Board Game of the Year — Winner
Pro
- Combines drafting with city building
- Compact 45-minute playtime
- Winner of GEEKS d'OURO Strategy Board Game of the Year 2025
- Part of the established Cities game family
Contra
- No solo mode, requires 2-4 players
- Demands strategic thinking and patience
- Complexity suited for ages 14 and up
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in various global metropolises where players develop new neighborhoods near waterfronts, integrating parks and buildings. It focuses on modern urban development and design.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding how drafting and tile placement interact to build an efficient city layout.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Cities is designed for two to four players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 45 minutes, making it a medium-length session.
What prior experience do I need?
Some experience with drafting and tile-laying games is helpful but not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
Cities uniquely combines Closed and Open Drafting with city building and pattern building mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and recommended age of 14+, it is better suited for experienced players rather than younger families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Closed Drafting, Contracts, and Pattern Building in a city-building context sets it apart.
Fazit
Cities is recommended for players who appreciate tactical city planning with drafting mechanics. Its complexity makes it less suitable for younger families.
