Objective
The goal of the game The Gardens of Alhambra is to score the most points by strategically placing cards that give certain point values to the gardens by the end of the game.
Components
- 100 Garden Cards (in four colors), numbered 1 to 10 each
- 36 Mosaic Cards (in six colors)
- Rulebook
Setup
- Each player receives a set number of garden cards to hold in their hand.
- Shuffle the mosaic cards and place them in a face-down deck.
- Draw five mosaic cards and place them face-up next to the deck.
Game Play
The game is played over several rounds, continuing until all garden cards have been played.
Phases of a Round
- Drawing Mosaic Cards: The current player draws a mosaic card from the open display to always keep five face-up cards available.
- Playing Garden Cards: The player selects one or more garden cards from their hand and lays them face-up in front of them.
- Checking for Scoring: After playing cards, the player's laid out cards are compared with the mosaic cards. If the garden cards match the numbers on the mosaic cards of the same color and add up to a specific value, the player scores points.
Special Rules
- When all cards of one color are played, a mid-game scoring occurs.
- The mosaic cards define which combinations of garden cards in which color will score points.
End of the Game
The game ends when all garden cards are depleted, and no further drawn mosaic cards are available for play. A final scoring is held, where all collected cards and points are totaled.
Strategic Tips
- Card Optimization: Try to use your hand cards optimally to hit maximum point values indicated by the mosaic cards.
- Mosaic Card Choice: Pay attention to which mosaic cards you take, as these significantly impact scoring options.
- Observe Opponents: Keep track of which cards your opponents collect to anticipate and counter their strategies.
By skillfully managing the cards in hand and strategically placing them, you can win the game.
