Helsinki
- Designer Asger Aleksandrov Granerud , Daniel Skjold Pedersen
- Publisher Queen Games , Lautapelit.fi
- Illustration Markus Erdt
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Helsinki, players design pavilions around the famous Senate Square in Finland's capital. Players move pawns on a central board, draft cards openly, and build pavilion shapes on personal grids using polyomino pieces. Managing a hand limit while combining colors and sizes of cards adds strategic depth. Coats of arms earned by covering special spaces enable one-time special actions, adding tactical variety.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for 2 to 4 players aged 10 and up, Helsinki is a medium-weight game with about 45 minutes playtime. It fits players who enjoy spatial puzzles and strategic planning. Beginners with some experience in polyomino or city-building games will find it accessible but should be prepared to manage hand limits and special actions.
How It Works
The game uses Grid Coverage and Open Drafting mechanics: players move their pawn 1-3 spaces on a central board, then choose to either draft cards linked to their space or build a pavilion. Cards depict polyomino shapes in five colors; to build, players must play cards matching the shape size and color. The pavilion is slid onto their personal grid from the side of their pawn's position. Completing rows and columns scores points, and coats of arms enable one-time special actions.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Asger Aleksandrov Granerud and Daniel Skjold Pedersen, Helsinki builds on their earlier game Copenhagen but adds complexity. Its unique blend of Grid Coverage and Open Drafting with polyomino components distinguishes it. As part of the Cities series, it challenges players to tactically manage hand limits and spatial placement.
Pro
- Innovative combination of Grid Coverage and Open Drafting
- Tactical management of polyomino cards
- Quick playtime around 45 minutes
- Part of the Cities series with a proven design team
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Requires some learning for hand management
- May be complex for younger children from age 10
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set around Senate Square in Helsinki, Finland’s capital. The square is surrounded by landmarks like the cathedral and university, providing the theme for building protective pavilions for pedestrians.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding polyomino placement and managing your hand limit effectively.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Helsinki is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game of Helsinki lasts about 45 minutes, making it a medium-length game.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a medium-weight game requiring basic familiarity with polyomino placement and card management.
How does this compare to similar games?
Helsinki builds on Copenhagen with added complexity and uniquely combines Grid Coverage with Open Drafting.
Is this suitable for families?
Suitable from age 10, but better suited for families with some gaming experience due to strategic depth.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of Grid Coverage and Open Drafting with polyomino building sets it apart.
Fazit
Helsinki is recommended for players who enjoy strategic city-building with polyomino elements and moderate complexity. It offers a balanced mix of planning and tactical choices in a relatively short playtime.
