Objective of the Game
The Merchants of Amsterdam is an economic game in which players take on the roles of traders in 17th century Amsterdam. The objective is to achieve the greatest wealth by establishing trade routes, trading goods, and expanding cities.
Game Components
- A game board that displays the cities in Europe and their trade connections
- Player pieces for each player (in different colors depending on the number of players)
- An auction timer, which introduces a unique mechanism into the game
- Cards for goods, events, and additional actions
- Various tiles and markers for resource allocation and point tracking
Setup
- Each player chooses a color and receives the corresponding player pieces and markers.
- The game board is placed in the center of the table. Each player places their score marker on the starting position of the track.
- The cards are shuffled and split into separate decks.
- The auction timer is prepared and explained.
Gameplay
The game proceeds over several rounds, each with the following phases:
1. Event Phase
In each round, an event card is drawn that affects all players. These cards can either facilitate or hinder trade, or provide special bonuses.
2. Trade Phase
- Players can establish trade routes between the cities on the board using trade cards and resources.
- Trade routes generate income, which can be used for later investments.
3. Construction Phase
Players have the option to invest in cities or trade centers to upgrade buildings and gain more influence in the cities.
4. Auction Phase
- A unique mechanic in this game is the auction timer. Players bid to acquire certain privileges or additional cards.
- Tactic: It is crucial to decide when to make a bid or pass. Bidding fast can provide advantages, but passing later can save resources.
Winning Conditions
The game ends after a predetermined number of rounds. The player with the most wealth (money, buildings, and influence) at the end of the game wins.
Strategic Tips
- Diversify Trades: Utilize various trade routes to diversify your income.
- Auctions: Keep an eye on auctions. It can be beneficial to conserve resources to outbid others later on crucial offers.
- City Development: Invest not only in trade goods but also in the long-term development of city centers.
The Merchants of Amsterdam offers an engaging and strategically challenging gameplay experience with its auction timer mechanism and the complex variety of actions.
