Race to build an empire with just the right mix of prestige and efficiency.
Get it for:
- Evaluation of ambiguous, probabilistic values in the first half.
- Finding the most efficient path to close out the game in the second.
- The satisfaction of timing your switch between the two halves perfectly, and watching your engine work.
- The clickiest of poker chips.
Avoid if:
- You want a social experience. The average game of Splendor doesn't involve much talking (sometimes you can hear the brain-gears grinding).
- Small number arithmetic isn't your idea of fun. That said, they tend to be very small numbers.
Also notable:
- Plays great with all player counts.
- For a fairly light, euro-ish, game, there is a surprising amount of player interaction. However, it is entirely based on blocking, which some may not like.
- Fast to play, nice components, and simple rules make Splendor a famously great gateway game.
- The expansion is fine. Get it if you love the base game, but it's not required.