Azul (Spiel des Jahres 2018 winner)^*

Azul invites you to step into the captivating world of Portuguese artistry and craftsmanship. This board game draws inspiration from the introduction of azulejos, originally white and blue ceramic tiles, by the Moors. The tiles found a new home in Portugal when King Manuel I, during a visit to the Alhambra palace in Southern Spain, was enchanted by the exquisite Moorish decorative tiles adorning its interior. Filled with awe and inspiration, the king promptly ordered the embellishment of his own palace in Portugal with similar decorative tiles. As a skilled tile-laying artist, you are tasked with the prestigious mission of adorning the walls of the Royal Palace of Evora.

Craftsmanship and Strategy

In Azul, players take on the roles of artisans, competing to create the most stunning tile patterns within the royal palace. The gameplay unfolds as players take turns selecting colored tiles from suppliers and strategically placing them on their player boards. Each decision is critical, as players earn points based on the arrangement and placement of their tiles within the palace.

Pursuit of Aesthetic Excellence

To achieve greatness, players must not only focus on aesthetics but also strive to complete specific patterns and sets. Points are awarded for successfully crafting intricate designs and wasting fewer supplies, contributing to the overall harmony of the palace. The pursuit of artistic excellence and efficient resource management is at the heart of the game.

The Art of Azul

Azul not only challenges players' strategic thinking but also immerses them in the rich history of Portuguese decorative art. Crafted with attention to detail, this game provides an engaging and visually stunning experience. The player who skillfully weaves together the most remarkable tapestry of tiles and earns the most points will emerge as the victor.

Dive into the world of Portuguese tile artistry, embrace the legacy of the Moors, and embark on a journey to create a masterpiece within the Royal Palace of Evora in Azul.