Ora et Labora*

Ora et Labora, designed by Uwe Rosenberg, is a resource management and strategy board game set in the Medieval era. Each player takes on the role of the head of a monastery, aiming to develop their land, construct buildings, and create valuable items.

Gameplay Overview

• Monastery Development: Players acquire land and build enterprises to gather resources and create products.
• Goal: The objective is to establish an efficient infrastructure and craft prestigious items like books and relics to earn the most victory points.
• Resource Mechanism: Utilizes a rondel to manage resource availability, which turns each round to adjust resource counts.

Game Mechanics

• Two-Sided Resource Tiles: Similar to Le Havre, these tiles can be upgraded to more valuable items.
• Personal Game Board: Players build on their boards with restrictions based on terrain and available resources.
• Worker Placement: Players have three workers for building actions, with an option to use others' buildings at a fee.

Unique Features

• Land Development: Players must clear land of trees or moors, reminiscent of Agricola: Farmers of the Moor, for development and resource gain.
• Building Strategy: Strategic construction on personal game boards impacts final scores.
• Two Variants: The game features France and Ireland variants for different gameplay experiences.

Conclusion

Ora et Labora is a compelling game for players who enjoy deep strategy, resource management, and building mechanics. Its unique rondel system for resources, combined with the intricacies of land development and worker placement, offers a rich and rewarding experience.