Rivals for Catan *

Rivals for Catan reinvents the classic Catan Card Game for a new generation of players. Designed by Klaus Teuber, this card game was released in honor of the 15th anniversary of the original card game. It introduces players to the competitive world of Catan, where each player assumes the role of a prince, striving to develop their provinces and outshine their rivals. The game offers a fresh take on the original mechanics, making it more accessible to newcomers while retaining the essence of the beloved Catan universe.

Gameplay Overview

Provincial Development: Players embark on a journey to expand and develop their individual provinces. They build settlements connected by roads, construct expansions within their settlements, or upgrade settlements to cities to unlock further possibilities. Resource accumulation is essential for these endeavors, determined by the roll of a die, and cards are drawn each turn to replenish players' hands.
Action Cards: In the game, players can utilize action cards to directly impact their provinces or disrupt their opponent's progress. These cards add strategic depth and opportunities for tactical maneuvering.
Reduced Pool of Cards: Rivals for Catan streamlines the original card pool, removing the more aggressive action cards found in the original game. This means that all action cards are available from the start, providing a balanced and competitive experience.

Ways to Play

Introductory Game: Designed for newcomers, the introductory game focuses on the basics of gameplay. Players aim to reach 7 victory points, utilizing 36 Expansion Cards in four stacks. This mode offers a quicker playtime, making it suitable for beginners.
Theme Games: Three theme games introduce additional rules, expansions, and more aggressive cards. These games can be played individually or combined to experience the "Duel of the Princes" variant. Each theme game incorporates 24 Expansion and Event Cards, enhancing the complexity and depth of gameplay.
Tournament Game: Similar to the original Catan Card Game, players can engage in the Tournament Game. Here, players strategically choose specific cards to build their deck before the game begins, shaping their future moves and tactics.

Theme

The theme of Rivals for Catan expands beyond the feudal era of the Middle Ages found in the original card game. The introductory game depicts the early years of the Catan world, while each theme game progresses into different eras, including "The Era of Gold," "The Era of Turmoil," and "The Era of Progress." This thematic evolution adds a dynamic and immersive element to the game, enhancing the player experience.

Conclusion

Rivals for Catan offers an exciting and strategic card game adventure set in the beloved Catan universe. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned Catan enthusiast, this game provides a fresh take on classic mechanics, ensuring an enjoyable and competitive experience. Engage in the rivalry, develop your provinces, and aim for victory in this engaging card game.