Fresco
- Designer Wolfgang Panning , Marco Ruskowski , Marcel Süßelbeck
- Publisher Queen Games , Arclight Games , Competo / Marektoy , Devir , Evrikus
- Illustration Oliver Schlemmer
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Fresco, you play as a master painter managing apprentices to restore a cathedral ceiling fresco. You choose wake-up times to influence turn order and action options, buy and mix paints, paint sections and portraits, and keep your apprentices motivated. The game combines Action Queue, simultaneous action selection, and set collection for a rich experience.
Who Is This Game For?
Fresco targets families and casual gamers aged 10 and up, offering medium complexity. With a playtime around 60 minutes, it fits well into game nights. No prior experience is necessary, but it offers strategic depth for planning-oriented players.
How It Works
Each round, players simultaneously select their wake-up time determining turn order. Apprentices are assigned to tasks like buying or mixing paints, painting fresco sections, or earning money by painting portraits. Managing apprentice morale is key to maintaining action efficiency. The core mechanics include Action Queue, Turn Order: Stat-Based, and Set Collection.
What Makes It Special
Fresco won the 2010 Deutscher Spiele Preis for Best Family/Adult Game and the Graf Ludo for Best Family Game Graphics. Its blend of Renaissance art theme with Action Queue and simultaneous action selection sets it apart. It belongs to Queen Games' Yellow Wave Box series and offers flexible gameplay duration.
Awards
2010
2010
2010
- 2010 Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game — Winner
- 2010 Gouden Ludo — Nominated
- 2010 Graf Ludo Best Family Game Graphics — Winner
Pro
- Deutscher Spiele Preis winner 2010
- High player interaction via simultaneous actions
- Strong Renaissance art theme
- Flexible 60-minute playtime
Contra
- No solo mode (2-4 players only)
- Moderate learning curve with several mechanics
- Requires patience for planning actions
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the Renaissance, players take on the role of fresco painters restoring a cathedral ceiling. The historical theme merges art and craftsmanship in an immersive setting.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Plan your actions ahead and keep your apprentices motivated to maintain efficiency.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Fresco is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game of Fresco typically lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for game nights.
What prior experience do I need?
Fresco suits families and casual gamers who understand basic game mechanics and enjoy strategic planning.
How does this compare to similar games?
Fresco combines Action Queue and simultaneous action selection with an art restoration theme, distinguishing it from classic worker placement games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, with a minimum age of 10 and moderate complexity, Fresco works well for families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Action Queue, simultaneous action selection, and set collection defines its unique gameplay.
Fazit
Fresco is a strongly recommended family game with strategic depth, ideal for players seeking a thematic and tactical worker placement experience. The roughly 60-minute playtime keeps sessions engaging.
