Objective of the Game
"World Without End" is a strategy board game where players aim to score the most victory points by managing resources and fulfilling tasks. The game is based on the novel of the same name by Ken Follett and challenges players to make decisions that affect their own fortunes and those of their community.
Game Components
- Game Board: Depicts the town of Kingsbridge and surrounding areas.
- Event Cards: Determine the events occurring each round.
- Resources: Various markers for food, wool, stone, wood, and money.
- Building Supply Tiles: Indicate specific buildings or improvements.
- Player Colors: Each player has a board and corresponding markers.
Setup
- Each player receives their color's board with 5 development markers, 12 starting resources (2 of each type), and 7 starting money.
- Place the game board in the center. Shuffle the event cards into a deck.
- Decide the starting player and setup the councilor figure.
Game Play
"World Without End" is played over four chapters, each consisting of six rounds.
- Chapter Start:
- Reveal an Event Card before each round.
- This card has sections to follow: Event, such as taxes or new tasks.
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Often, players must meet conditions to avoid penalties.
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Round Sequence:
- Each player has one turn per round to perform actions like building, trading, collecting resources, etc.
- Accumulate building points by using resources.
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Specific buildings require certain resources or clergy to generate points.
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Social Obligations:
- At certain times, players must meet societal tasks, such as a celebration or church construction.
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Failure results in point loss.
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Strategic Aspects:
- Players decide between short-term benefits or long-term investments.
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Collaboration and competition can significantly affect the game's course.
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End of Chapter:
- At each chapter's end, players sum their constructs and accomplished obligations.
- Event cards provide further pressure or rewards.
End of the Game
The game ends after the fourth chapter. The player with the most victory points wins. Ties are broken by wealth.
Strategy Tips
- Resource Management: Wise planning of resources is essential.
- Event Cards: Anticipate how events may affect future rounds.
- Cooperation vs. Confrontation: Be ready to collaborate sometimes to achieve mutual goals.
Conclusion
"World Without End" offers a complex yet rewarding experience full of tactical choices and historical atmosphere.
