Shakespeare
- Designer Hervé Rigal
- Publisher Ystari Games
- Illustration Arnaud Demaegd , Neriac
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Shakespeare, you act as a theater manager in Renaissance London, recruiting actors, craftsmen, and jewelers to stage a masterpiece within six days. You allocate 1-5 actions per day to rehearse, build sets, and prepare costumes, while managing the theater's atmosphere to impress the queen. The game combines tactical planning with timed engine-building, where every decision impacts your final success.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for experienced players, Shakespeare is a medium-weight strategy game with a 90-minute playtime and a solo mode. It suits those who enjoy a mix of Action Points and Auction mechanics and is recommended for ages 13 and up rather than families.
How It Works
Each day, players perform 1 to 5 actions with their characters, such as rehearsing acts, crafting costumes, or building sets. New characters are recruited via open drafting, adding unique abilities. Strategic use of Action Points and auction bidding helps create the best production and earn the queen's favor. The theater's atmosphere affects scoring and options after each day.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Hervé Rigal, Shakespeare uniquely blends Action Points, Auction/Bidding, and Open Drafting in a Renaissance theater theme. It was nominated for the Tric Trac award in 2015 and includes a solo mode, distinguishing it within Ystari originals.
Awards
2015
Pro
- Combines Action Points and Auctions in a coherent theater theme
- Includes solo mode for single players
- Strong thematic focus on Renaissance theater management
- 2015 Tric Trac nominee
Contra
- Complex mechanics require learning time
- Supports up to 4 players only
- 90-minute playtime demands patience
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Renaissance London amid bustling theaters, players manage troupes aiming to win the queen's favor. The game immerses you in the vibrant world of theatrical productions.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus early on efficient use of your Action Points and familiarize yourself with character abilities to adapt your strategy.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Shakespeare includes a solo mode for single players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, plus setup time.
What prior experience do I need?
Shakespeare is a medium-weight game suited for experienced players familiar with strategic mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its unique blend of Action Points, Auction/Bidding, and Open Drafting in a theater setting sets it apart.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and recommended age of 13+, it is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Action Points, Auction/Bidding, and Open Drafting defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Shakespeare is recommended for players seeking strategic depth combined with thematic theater management. Suitable for groups or solo play, it offers focused planning over roughly 90 minutes.
