Gentes
- Designer Stefan Risthaus
- Publisher Spielworxx , Board Game Rookie , Dexker Games , Game Brewer , Jing Studio
- Illustration Harald Lieske , Adam P. McIver
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take on the role of ancient peoples in the Mediterranean, building monuments and founding cities over six rounds divided into three eras. Actions require placing markers on a personal time track, paying money, and managing sand timers that limit the number of actions per round. This timing mechanism creates variable action counts and strategic depth. You develop your civilization by playing cards, training your population, and collecting victory points.
Who Is This Game For?
Gentes is aimed at experienced Eurogame fans aged 12 and up who enjoy medium to heavy strategy games lasting about 90 minutes. It includes a solo mode for single-player play. The mechanics require some learning but are accessible to players familiar with engine-building and resource management.
How It Works
The game uses action drafting and action points, with players placing action markers on their personal time tracks each round. These markers often require money or sand timers, which represent your available actions before passing. Players play cards from their hand to build monuments, fulfill contracts, train people, and found cities. New monument cards enter the game at the start of each era, offering end game bonuses and new options.
What Makes It Special
Gentes won the 2018 JUG Adult Game of the Year and was nominated for several awards including the 2017 Golden Geek Best Strategy Board Game. Stefan Risthaus blends unique time management with classic civilization elements. The game’s family includes solitaire rules and stands out through its use of sand timers as a dynamic resource.
Awards
2019
2018
2017
- 2018 JUG Adult Game of the Year — Winner
- 2017 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Innovative timing mechanism using sand timers
- Complex engine-building gameplay
- Includes solo mode
- Winner of JUG Adult Game of the Year 2018
Contra
- Relatively long playtime (~90 minutes)
- Requires learning complex mechanics
- Recommended for ages 12 and up
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the ancient Mediterranean, you lead a civilization building monuments and founding cities, reflecting historical societal and infrastructural development.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding the time track and sand timers to efficiently plan your actions.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Gentes supports solo play and accommodates 1 to 4 players.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 90 minutes, with some additional time for setup and explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
The game suits experienced players aged 12+ familiar with medium to heavy strategic games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Gentes features a unique timing mechanism using sand timers, dynamically controlling the number of actions and adding tactical depth.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, Gentes is better suited for experienced players rather than families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of action drafting with a sand timer-based timing system sets Gentes apart.
Fazit
Gentes is a recommended game for players seeking a complex civilization and engine-building experience with an innovative timing mechanic. It demands patience and strategic planning.
