The Colonists

1-4

Players

360

Minutes

12+

Age

2016

Published

Designer Tim Puls
Publisher Lookout Games , Cranio Creations , Hobby Japan , Mayfair Games
Illustration Klemens Franz

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What to Expect

In The Colonists, you act as a mayor developing your village by building houses, creating jobs, and educating citizens. You move your mayor on a central modular board to select actions. Limited resources and storage challenges add depth, while building upgrades expand your colony. The game features scenarios and a tutorial, with playtime ranging from 30 minutes for beginners to 180 minutes for experts.

Who Is This Game For?

The Colonists targets experienced gamers aged 12 and up who enjoy long, strategic sessions. Its complexity requires prior knowledge of resource management and patience for extended playtimes. A solo mode is included, making it suitable for single players. Beginners should allow time to learn the many mechanics through the tutorial.

How It Works

Players move their mayor (Area Movement) on a modular board to select actions and manage resources (Hand Management). Tile placement expands their settlement. Open drafting gives players a choice of options. The game supports 1 to 4 players in both solo and multiplayer modes.

Area Movement Hand Management Modular Board Open Drafting Solo / Solitaire Game Tile Placement

What Makes It Special

Designed by Tim Puls, The Colonists was nominated in 2016 for several awards including Golden Geek Best Solo Board Game and International Gamers Award. Its unique mix of resource management, area movement, and modular board design sets it apart in the civilization genre.

Awards

Nominated
2017

Nominated
2016

2016 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
2016 The Golden Elephant Award — Finalist

Pro

Includes solo mode for single players
Strategic depth through resource management and area movement
Modular board ensures varied gameplay
Multiple award nominations in 2016 and 2017

Contra

Long playtime up to 360 minutes
High complexity demands experience and patience
Not ideal for families or casual players

Setting & Atmosphäre

The game centers on founding and developing a colony, focusing on building homes, jobs, and education to grow your population.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Start with the tutorial and beginner scenarios to gradually learn the mechanics.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Yes, The Colonists includes a solo mode and supports 1 to 4 players.

How long does a game really take?

Playtime varies from about 30 minutes for beginners up to 360 minutes for expert sessions.

What prior experience do I need?

The game is complex and aimed at experienced players familiar with resource management.

How does this compare to similar games?

The Colonists combines area movement, modular board, and open drafting for a unique settlement-building experience.

Is this suitable for families?

Due to its length and complexity, it is better suited for older children and experienced gamers rather than families.

What mechanic makes it special?

Its blend of area movement, hand management, and modular board makes the gameplay versatile and strategic.

Fazit

The Colonists is recommended for players seeking a deep civilization experience with solo play. It is less suitable for casual or family gamers due to its long duration and complexity.