Ezra and Nehemiah
- Designer S J Macdonald , Shem Phillips
- Publisher Garphill Games , CHUR GAMES , CMON Global Limited , Mosaico Jogos , Pixie Games
- Illustration Sam Phillips
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players work to rebuild Jerusalem by constructing the temple, city walls, and teaching the Torah over three weeks. Managing cards, workers, and resources, you develop the city and its surroundings. Sabbath days offer rest and reflection. Prophets like Haggai and Zechariah help keep focus on crucial tasks.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players aged 13+, suitable for those who enjoy longer, in-depth games around 120 minutes. It includes a solo mode, allowing solo play. Prior experience with engine-building and hand management mechanics is recommended.
How It Works
Ezra and Nehemiah features hand management and multi-use cards, where each card serves multiple functions. Through chaining and tech trees, you strategically advance the city. Track movement and a rhythm of work and Sabbath days structure three rounds of resource investment and progress.
What Makes It Special
Designed by S J Macdonald and Shem Phillips, Ezra and Nehemiah was nominated for the 2024 Golden Geek Heavy Game of the Year and was a 2025 Lys Expert finalist. Part of Garphill Games' Ancient Anthology, it uniquely blends biblical themes with city-building mechanics.
Awards
2024
- 2025 Lys Expert — Finalist
Pro
- Deep blend of hand management and city-building mechanics
- Includes solo mode
- Award-nominated (Golden Geek 2024, Lys Expert 2025)
- Strong biblical thematic integration
Contra
- Long playtime around 120 minutes
- Complex rules requiring experience
- Less suitable for families with younger players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in ancient Israel, specifically Jerusalem under Persian rule, it draws on biblical stories of rebuilding the temple and city walls.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding multi-use cards and plan your actions carefully around the Sabbath days.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Ezra and Nehemiah includes a solo mode for single-player gaming.
How long does a game really take?
A full game lasts about 120 minutes, so plan accordingly for setup and explanation time.
What prior experience do I need?
Recommended for experienced players familiar with engine-building and hand management mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines city-building with biblical themes and mechanics like chaining and track movement.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is less suitable for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of hand management, multi-use cards, and chaining is central to the gameplay.
Fazit
Recommended for experienced players who appreciate complex mechanics and historical themes. Casual players may find the length and complexity challenging.
