Medina (Second Edition)
- Designer Stefan Dorra
- Publisher Gigamic , Stronghold Games , White Goblin Games
- Illustration Eduardo Bera , Hans-Georg Schneider
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Set in 1822 near the Atlas Mountains, players rebuild the Medina by placing wooden pieces on a grid. Each turn, two pieces are placed to expand buildings or city features like walls and markets. Players compete for area majority in colored buildings and earn bonuses for palaces by the well and connections to the city walls. The game offers strategic depth through area control and tile placement on a double-sided board.
Who Is This Game For?
Medina is a medium-weight game for 2 to 4 players aged 10 and up. With about 60 minutes playtime, it suits players who enjoy abstract strategy and tactical planning without a solo mode.
How It Works
Players take turns placing two wooden pieces on a square grid to build or expand city areas. The core mechanics include Area Majority / Influence, Grid Coverage, and Tile Placement, requiring players to control large buildings and city features to score points and earn bonuses.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Stefan Dorra and nominated for the 2014 Golden Geek Best Abstract Board Game, Medina stands out with its historical city-building theme combined with abstract combinatorial mechanics and a double-sided board for varied gameplay.
Awards
2014
Pro
- Deep area majority mechanics for strategic control
- Double-sided board supporting 2 to 4 players
- High-quality wooden components with thematic city design
- Moderate 60-minute playtime suitable for enthusiasts
Contra
- Requires strategic planning and patience for longer play
- No solo mode available
- Complexity may be high for younger players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in 1822 in the Medina, a city at the foot of the Atlas Mountains in North Africa, focusing on rebuilding the city with palaces, markets, and walls.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on careful placement to secure majorities and maximize bonus points.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Medina supports 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Games typically last about 60 minutes, fitting a medium-length play session.
What prior experience do I need?
It's suited for players aged 10 and up who enjoy medium-weight abstract strategy games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Medina uniquely blends abstract area majority mechanics with a historical city-building theme and a double-sided board.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity, it is better for families with older children or experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Area Majority / Influence and Grid Coverage with Tile Placement distinguishes it.
Fazit
Medina is recommended for players seeking an abstract strategy game with tactical area control in a historical setting, offering a balanced 60-minute experience for 2 to 4 players.
