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Ex Libris MENSA SELECT 2018 GOLDEN GEEK NOMINIERT 2017

Ex Libris

1-4
Players
45
Minutes
10+
Age
2017
Published

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What to Expect

In Ex Libris, you collect rare books in a gnome village to become the Grand Librarian. You send assistants out to gather impressive tomes within a week before inspection. Compete with other collectors for scarce sources, and organize your library by stability, alphabetical order, and variety. Strategic planning and tactics are needed to outshine opponents.

Who Is This Game For?

This game targets hobby gamers aged 10 and up who enjoy tactical card and tile placement games. With a 45-minute playtime, it's suited for short to medium sessions. A solo mode allows solo play, and some familiarity with hand management and drafting helps with learning.

How It Works

Ex Libris combines hand management, open drafting, and set collection. Players draft cards openly, place tiles to build their library, and use variable player powers. The goal is to collect and arrange books before the inspector grades your collection. Assistants help organize resources and outbid competitors.

Hand Management Open Drafting Set Collection Solo / Solitaire Game Tile Placement Variable Player Powers

What Makes It Special

Designed by Adam P. McIver, Ex Libris won the 2018 Mensa Select and Origins Awards Best Card Game. Its blend of fantasy theme, hand management, and variable powers, along with a book-like component, distinguishes it from other card games.

Awards

MENSA SELECT 2018
Winner
2018
GOLDEN GEEK NOMINIERT 2017
Nominated
2017
  • 2018 Origins Awards Best Card Game — Winner

Pro

  • Includes solo mode for single players
  • Combines hand management, open drafting, and set collection
  • 2018 Mensa Select winner
  • Variable player powers add variety

Contra

  • Not suitable for children under 10
  • Requires focus on tactical planning
  • Relatively short playtime of about 45 minutes

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in a gnome village, you collect books to impress the mayor. The focus is on a magical, fantasy world centered around books and libraries.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on understanding the drafting mechanic and plan your book collection early to impress the inspector.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Yes, Ex Libris includes a solo mode and supports 1 to 4 players.

How long does a game really take?

A game lasts about 45 minutes, suitable for short to medium sessions.

What prior experience do I need?

Basic knowledge of hand management and drafting helps; it's a hobby game for ages 10+.

How does this compare to similar games?

Ex Libris uniquely combines variable player powers with a book theme and a book-like board.

Is this suitable for families?

It's suitable for ages 10 and up and better for families familiar with hobby games.

What mechanic makes it special?

Its blend of hand management, open drafting, and set collection with variable powers stands out.

Fazit

Ex Libris is recommended for players seeking tactical fantasy card games with variable gameplay. Its solo mode and moderate duration make it versatile.