Hansa Teutonica
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- Designer Andreas Steding
- Publisher Argentum Verlag , 999 Games , Egmont Polska , Z-Man Games
- Illustration Dennis Lohausen
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You play a merchant building a network of offices and vying for control of cities. Victory points come from offices in your network, controlled cities, bonus markers, and when other traders use cities you control. Players invest in permanent skill improvements that grant more action points, extra pawns, better VP from offices or special placement rights. Typical scenes include closing routes between cities, establishing control in key hubs and upgrading trader abilities.
Who Is This Game For?
Targeted at hobby/advanced gamers: Hansa Teutonica rewards planning and optimization over multiple rounds. With a playtime around 90 minutes it fits players who enjoy extended strategic sessions. Basic board game experience helps, especially familiarity with engine-building and area-majority concepts.
How It Works
The core blends Action Points, Network and Route Building and Area Majority / Influence. You take actions to occupy links between cities, then build offices or improve skills. Ownership of cities and occupied connections grant benefits and influence end-game scoring via End Game Bonuses. Take-That elements create direct player interaction.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Andreas Steding with art by Dennis Lohausen; first published in 2009 by Argentum Verlag. Hansa Teutonica won multiple Golden Geek awards in 2010, including Best Strategy Board Game and Board Game of the Year, and received Meeples Choice recognition in 2009. The mix of permanent skill upgrades with route/network play sets it apart from many pure route-builders.
Awards
2011
2010
2010
- 2009 Meeples Choice Award — Winner
Also Available As
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Hansa Teutonica: Big Box 2020
All editions are grouped on this page — ratings, awards, and statistics apply to all equally.
Pro
- Strong integration of engine-building and network construction
- High player interaction through Area Majority and Take That
- Award-winning: Golden Geek awards in 2010
- Designed by Andreas Steding; published 2009
Contra
- Relatively high complexity for newcomers
- Around 90 minutes playtime requires focus
- Direct interaction can be confrontational for some groups
Setting & atmosphere
Set in the medieval Hanseatic trade network (German/Hanse cities). The theme supports the economic and network mechanics without deep historical simulation.
Tips for beginners
Invest early in skill upgrades that expand your action capabilities and prioritize connections that enable future options.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No. The game supports 2–5 players.
How long does a game really take?
The listed duration is about 90 minutes; allow extra time for setup and rule explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with engine-building and area-majority games is helpful; it's aimed at hobby/advanced players.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its combination of permanent skill upgrades and network/route mechanics makes it distinct among route-builders.
Is this suitable for families?
Given its complexity and age recommendation (12+), it's better for families with older or experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The interaction of Action Points, Network and Route Building and permanent skill improvements is the hallmark.
Fazit
A solid strategic game that combines engine-building with area-majority mechanics. Recommended for players who enjoy 90-minute tactical planning sessions; casual groups may find the complexity high.
Hansa Teutonica at your next game night?
Add Hansa Teutonica to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Hansa Teutonica to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
