Mombasa
- Designer Alexander Pfister
- Publisher eggertspiele , Albi , Arclight Games , Bright World Games , Delta Vision Publishing
- Illustration Klemens Franz , Andreas Resch
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Mombasa, you invest in four African trading companies and expand their trading posts across the continent. The game combines deck, pool, and hand management with a unique rotating action card system where cards rest after use and must be reactivated. Strategic planning and timing are essential to increase the value of your shares.
Who Is This Game For?
Mombasa targets experienced Eurogamers and experts who enjoy complex economic strategies. With a playtime of about 150 minutes, it demands patience and strategic thinking. Suitable for players aged 12 and up, prior knowledge of engine building and hand management helps with learning the game.
How It Works
The core mechanics include deck, bag, and pool building, area majority, and hand management. Players simultaneously select action cards from their hands, place them face down in slots, then reveal and execute them. After actions, cards move to resting slots and must be recovered before reuse, creating an action queue that requires careful timing. Investments and control of trading posts determine victory.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Alexander Pfister, Mombasa won the 2016 Deutscher Spiele Preis for Best Family/Adult Game. Its combination of deck building, area majority, and a unique rotating action card system sets it apart in economic strategy games.
Awards
2016
2016
2015
- 2017 Jogo do Ano — Winner
- 2016 Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game — Winner
- 2015 Jocul Anului în România Advanced — Finalist
- 2015 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
- 2015 The Golden Elephant Award — Finalist
Pro
- Deep economic and investment mechanics
- Unique rotating action card system
- Combination of deck building and area majority
- Winner of Deutscher Spiele Preis 2016
Contra
- Long playtime around 150 minutes
- High complexity, not for casual players
- Requires strategic planning and experience
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in 19th century Africa, the game centers on the rivalry of four trading companies expanding their networks across the continent.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Plan your actions ahead and pay attention to the timing of your cards to maximize their effects.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Mombasa is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game lasts about 150 minutes, suitable for a longer gaming session.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex Eurogames and mechanics like deck building and area majority is helpful.
How does this compare to similar games?
Mombasa combines deck building with a unique rotating action card system and area majority in an economic setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, Mombasa is better suited for experienced players aged 12 and up.
What mechanic makes it special?
The rotating action card system with resting and action slots is a key unique feature.
Fazit
Mombasa is a demanding choice for players who appreciate deep economic and influence mechanics. It may be challenging for newcomers but rewarding for seasoned strategists.
