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Orléans NEDERLANDSE SPELLENPRIJS 2017 INTERNATIONAL GAMERS AWARD NOMINIERT 2015 GOLDEN GEEK NOMINIERT 2014

Orléans

2-5
Players
90
Minutes
12+
Age
2014
Published

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The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.

What to Expect

In Orléans, you assemble a following of farmers, merchants, knights, and monks in medieval France. You recruit and deploy followers to advance trade, construction, and science. The game combines deck, bag, and pool building with events and contracts to optimize your actions. Multiple paths to victory demand careful resource and ability management.

Who Is This Game For?

Orléans is aimed at experienced gamers who enjoy strategic planning and engine-building. With a playtime around 90 minutes, it requires patience and understanding of complex mechanics. Beginners should expect a moderate learning curve due to intertwined gameplay elements.

How It Works

The core mechanics include deck, bag, and pool building to recruit and use followers. Contracts and events add dynamic conditions and challenges. Point-to-point movement allows expansion on the map, while end game bonuses reward strategic planning. Kill steal mechanics create competition over valuable actions.

Contracts Deck, Bag, and Pool Building End Game Bonuses Events Kill Steal Point to Point Movement

What Makes It Special

Designed by Reiner Stockhausen, Orléans was nominated for the 2014 Golden Geek Best Strategy Board Game. Its unique blend of deck and bag building with contracts and events sets it apart in the medieval strategy genre. It belongs to the Orléans family and features complex resource and action management.

Awards

NEDERLANDSE SPELLENPRIJS 2017
Winner
2017
INTERNATIONAL GAMERS AWARD NOMINIERT 2015
Nominated
2015
GOLDEN GEEK NOMINIERT 2014
Nominated
2014
  • 2017 MinD-Spielepreis — Winner
  • 2016 Gouden Ludo Best Expert Game — Winner
  • 2015 JUG Adult Game of the Year — Finalist
  • 2014 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated

Pro

  • Diverse mechanics: deck, bag, and pool building combined with contracts and events
  • Strategic depth with end game bonuses and kill steal
  • Strong medieval French theme
  • Nominated for multiple Golden Geek Awards in 2014

Contra

  • No solo mode (2–5 players)
  • Complexity requires learning and patience
  • About 90 minutes playtime may be long for casual players

Setting & atmosphere

The game is set in medieval France around the city of Orléans, during a time of competing trade, science, and construction efforts.

Tips for beginners

Focus first on understanding the different mechanics and experiment with strategies before committing to one.

Frequently asked questions

Can I play this solo?

Orléans supports 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

A game lasts about 90 minutes, typical for a medium-weight strategy game.

What prior experience do I need?

The game targets experienced players and requires familiarity with complex mechanics like deck and bag building.

How does this compare to similar games?

Orléans stands out by combining deck, bag, and pool building with contracts and events, differing from classic worker placement games.

Is this suitable for families?

With a minimum age of 12 and complex mechanics, it is better suited for experienced players than for families with younger children.

What mechanic makes it special?

Its combination of deck, bag, and pool building with contracts and events offers rich strategic options.

Fazit

Orléans is recommended for players seeking strategic depth and diverse mechanics. It suits groups interested in medieval themes and longer play sessions.

Orléans at your next game night?

Add Orléans to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.

Add Orléans to my collection