Karawane
- Designer Andreas Bartl , Andreas Bernabe , Norbert Grill
- Publisher Otto Maier Verlag
- Illustration Uwe Schildmeier , Thomas Weiss
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Karawane, 3 to 5 players compete in a camel race across the desert in the 13th century. Players bid limited water chips each round to move their camels toward oasis spots. Collecting goods like silk along the way, the player with the most goods after three legs wins. The game combines auction bidding, simultaneous action selection, and race mechanics with a desert theme.
Who Is This Game For?
Karawane is suited for experienced gamers aged 12 and up who enjoy tactical racing games with auction elements. With an average playtime of 45 minutes, it fits medium-length game sessions. Prior experience with bidding mechanics is helpful due to the resource management involved.
How It Works
The core mechanics include Auction / Bidding, Race, and Simultaneous Action Selection. Each player bids water chips to determine how far their camel moves along the track. All players select their bids simultaneously, adding tension and strategy. The goal is to gather the most goods by reaching oasis points over three race segments.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Andreas Bartl, Andreas Bernabe, and Norbert Grill in 1990, Karawane stands out by merging auction and racing mechanics within its 13th-century Arabian desert theme. While it has no recorded awards, its unique combination appeals to fans of both race and bidding games.
Pro
- Combines auction bidding with race mechanics
- Simultaneous action selection adds dynamic gameplay
- Strong Arabian desert theme with camel racing
- Compact playtime of about 45 minutes
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Requires familiarity with bidding mechanics
- Recommended for ages 12 and up, not for younger children
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the 13th-century Arabian desert under Kublai Khan's reign, the game centers on camel races through desert landscapes dotted with oasis trading spots.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on managing your water chip bids wisely and watch opponents’ moves to secure the best oasis spots.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Karawane is designed for 3 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 45 minutes, suitable for medium-length sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Some experience with auction or bidding mechanics is helpful to manage resources effectively.
How does this compare to similar games?
Karawane uniquely blends auction bidding with race and simultaneous action selection mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age limit of 12+, it is better suited for experienced players than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The game’s combination of Auction / Bidding and simultaneous action selection defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Karawane is recommended for players who enjoy tactical racing with auction mechanics and prefer medium-length games. It is less suitable for casual family play due to its complexity and age recommendation.
