Nidavellir
- Designer Serge Laget
- Publisher GRRRE Games , Blackrock Games , Evrikus , Fantasmagoria , Galakta
- Illustration Jean-Marie Minguez
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Nidavellir, you play as an Elvaland tasked with recruiting skilled dwarves and heroes by bidding coins in various taverns. Players place sealed bids on multiple lots, then select characters in descending order to build their army. Each dwarf class scores differently, and managing your coin value strategically is key to success. The game combines auction mechanics with tactical coin-building to defeat the dragon Fafnir.
Who Is This Game For?
Nidavellir targets experienced players aged 10 and up who enjoy fantasy and mythology themes. With a playtime of about 45 minutes, it suits those who appreciate tactical auction games without lengthy sessions. Prior experience with bidding mechanics helps but is not mandatory.
How It Works
Each round, players place sealed bids with coins on several taverns (Auction: Sealed Bid, Auction: Multiple Lot). In order of bid strength, players select characters for their army (Selection Order Bid). Different dwarf types provide varied scoring bonuses (End Game Bonuses). Through constrained bidding, players manage their coin resources to enhance bids and build an effective battalion.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Serge Laget, Nidavellir won the 2020 Swiss Gamers Award and was nominated for the Golden Geek Best Card Game. It uniquely blends multiple auction mechanisms with a coin management system in a Norse mythology setting, offering a fresh take on engine-building within a card game.
Awards
2020
2020
- 2020 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
- 2020 Swiss Gamers Award — Winner
Pro
- Combination of multiple auction mechanics for strategic depth
- Short playtime around 45 minutes
- Strong thematic integration of Norse mythology
- Winner of the 2020 Swiss Gamers Award
Contra
- Not ideal for casual family players
- Requires understanding of bidding tactics
- Limited to 2-5 players without solo mode
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the dwarf kingdom of Nidavellir, threatened by the dragon Fafnir. Players act as Elvalands recruiting dwarves and heroes from taverns to build their forces.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the auction mechanics and effective coin management to improve your chances.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Nidavellir supports 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Games typically last about 45 minutes, allowing for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Designed for experienced players aged 10+, familiarity with auction mechanics is beneficial.
How does this compare to similar games?
Nidavellir uniquely combines sealed-bid and multiple-lot auctions with coin management in a fantasy setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age recommendation, it suits families with experienced players better.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Auction: Sealed Bid, Auction: Multiple Lot, and Constrained Bidding defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Nidavellir is recommended for fans of auction games and fantasy themes seeking tactical depth in a short game. It is less suited for players preferring simpler family games.
