Ginkgopolis
- Designer Xavier Georges
- Publisher Pearl Games , Heidelberger Spieleverlag , Hobby Japan , SD Games , uplay.it edizioni
- Illustration Gaël Lannurien
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Set in the year 2212, Ginkgopolis challenges you to build a futuristic city in harmony with nature. Players simultaneously choose cards to add city tiles in three colors—yellow for victory points, red for resources, and blue for new tiles. Overbuilding existing tiles grants special power cards that enhance your tableau. Managing your hand while passing cards adds a strategic layer to this city-planning competition.
Who Is This Game For?
This is a strategy game aimed at players aged 13 and up who enjoy tactical planning and short, challenging games. With a playtime of about 45 minutes, it suits those who prefer concise but deep gameplay. Some familiarity with hand management and area majority mechanics is helpful but not mandatory.
How It Works
Each round, you select a card from your hand to either build or urbanize city tiles. Unplayed cards are passed to the left in a closed drafting fashion, requiring strategic foresight. Overbuilding tiles lets you add their power cards to your tableau, boosting your abilities. The goal is to score victory points by managing resources and controlling city areas.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Xavier Georges, Ginkgopolis was nominated for awards like the 2012 Jogo do Ano and Meeples Choice Award. It uniquely blends area majority, hand management, and tableau building within an ecological city-building theme. The simultaneous card selection and layering mechanics distinguish it from other city-building games.
Awards
2013
2013
- 2012 Jogo do Ano — Nominated
- 2012 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Short playtime around 45 minutes
- Features simultaneous card selection (closed drafting)
- Includes a solo mode
- Combines area majority and tableau building thematically
Contra
- Requires tactical thinking and planning
- Recommended for ages 13 and up
- Strategic depth may overwhelm newcomers
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in 2212 in Ginkgopolis, a futuristic city built in harmony with nature and the ancient Ginkgo Biloba tree. It combines science fiction with ecology and sustainable urban development.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding power cards and plan your card choices ahead.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Ginkgopolis includes a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Games last about 45 minutes, suitable for short game sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Some knowledge of tactical games and mechanics like hand management helps.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ginkgopolis combines simultaneous card drafting with tile layering and an ecological theme.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age recommendation, it's better for experienced family players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of closed drafting, area majority, and tableau building sets it apart.
Fazit
Ginkgopolis is recommended for players seeking tactical depth in a short, thematic city-building game. It's suitable for beginners who are patient and interested in strategic planning.
