The Palaces of Carrara
- Designer Michael Kiesling , Wolfgang Kramer
- Publisher Hans im Glück , Filosofia Éditions , White Goblin Games , Z-Man Games
- Illustration Franz Vohwinkel
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players aim to buy marble from Italy’s Carrara region cheaply, balancing price drops that also aid opponents. You decide whether to invest in buildings or expensive raw materials, depending on their profitability. The game offers beginner and advanced levels to learn mechanics like Set Collection, Tile Placement, and Increase Value of Unchosen Resources.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for 2 to 4 players aged 10 and up, it suits strategy gamers who enjoy economic engine-building. The two-tier gameplay makes it accessible for newcomers while providing depth for experienced players in a roughly 60-minute game.
How It Works
Players collect sets of resources (Set Collection) and place tiles (Tile Placement) to build buildings and score points. The mechanic Increase Value of Unchosen Resources increases the value of resources not taken, adding tactical depth. This interplay creates dynamic economic decisions each round between acquiring marble and constructing buildings.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Michael Kiesling and Wolfgang Kramer, The Palaces of Carrara was nominated for the 2013 Kennerspiel des Jahres and won the 2013 Essener Feder for best rules. It combines refined economic mechanics with a Renaissance Italy theme and is available digitally on Board Game Arena and Yucata.
Awards
2013
2013
- 2014 Gouden Ludo — Nominated
- 2013 Essener Feder Best Written Rules — Winner
- 2013 JUG Adult Game of the Year — Finalist
- 2012 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Combines Set Collection and Tile Placement mechanics
- Tactical increase in value of unchosen resources
- Two difficulty levels for beginners and experts
- Award-winning, clear rulebook (Essener Feder 2013)
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Requires some learning despite tiered gameplay
- Limited to 2-4 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Renaissance Tuscany, Italy, the game focuses on marble extraction and building grand palaces in Carrara.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with the beginner level to grasp the core mechanics before moving to the advanced version.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, The Palaces of Carrara is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for an evening session.
What prior experience do I need?
As a medium-weight strategy game, it’s accessible via its two difficulty levels but benefits from some prior experience with economic mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
The Increase Value of Unchosen Resources mechanic adds dynamic economic tension, distinguishing it from other city-building games.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 10 and moderate complexity, it fits families with older children who enjoy strategic games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Set Collection, Tile Placement, and Increase Value of Unchosen Resources defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Recommended for players seeking a strategic economic game with medium playtime. It offers meaningful tactical choices and is ideal for those who appreciate nuanced engine-building.
