Manila
- Designer Franz-Benno Delonge
- Publisher Zoch Verlag , 999 Games , Competo / Marektoy , Devir , Egmont Polska
- Illustration Victor Boden
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Manila, 3-5 players compete as speculators on shipments of goods like jade, ginseng, silk, and nutmeg. Players bid to become harbor master, buy shares in shipments, and bet on which ships will successfully reach Manila. Dice rolls determine the fate of the ships, while players can also insure against losses or attempt to pirate shipments. This creates a lively mix of bluffing, risk-taking, and tactical decisions in a colonial river setting.
Who Is This Game For?
Manila is suited for families and casual gamers aged 10 and up who enjoy interactive games with elements of luck and strategy. With a playtime around 60 minutes, it fits well into an evening game session. Its simple rules make it accessible for players with little prior experience.
How It Works
Each round begins with an auction to determine the harbor master, who can buy shares in shipments. Players then bet on the success of the ships traveling downriver, with dice rolls deciding their fate. Key mechanics include Auction / Bidding, Betting and Bluffing, and Commodity Speculation. Loans and insurance are additional strategic options to manage risk.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Franz-Benno Delonge, Manila won 3rd place in the 2005 Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game category. It stands out by blending auction, betting, and dice elements within a maritime colonial theme. Part of the Manila game family, it offers a unique mix of bidding, wagering, and chance.
Awards
2006
2006
2005
2005
- 2005 Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game 3rd Place — Nominated
- 2005 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Successful blend of auction, betting, and dice rolling
- Family-friendly with simple learning curve
- About 60 minutes playtime fits well into game nights
- Atmospheric colonial maritime theme
Contra
- No solo mode, designed for 3-5 players
- Dice luck can cause frustration
- Relatively light strategy, not complex
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in colonial Manila on the Philippines, where riverboats transport goods amid nautical and pirate themes reflecting historical trade routes.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on assessing ship risks and use insurance and betting options strategically.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Manila 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 60 minutes, suitable for a short game evening.
What prior experience do I need?
Manila is a family game with simple rules, making it accessible to beginners.
How does this compare to similar games?
Manila uniquely combines auction, betting, and dice mechanics in a colonial maritime setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for families with children aged 10 and up who enjoy light strategy games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The game is defined by Auction / Bidding, Betting and Bluffing, and Commodity Speculation mechanics.
Fazit
Manila is recommended for families and players seeking a light strategy game with elements of luck. It is less suitable for those preferring complex expert-level games.
